The Three Kingdoms: Zhaolie, the strategist, and the rise of the Han Dynasty

Chapter 447 Accidentally Entering the Imperial Household, I Advise You to Put Down the Sand in Your Hands (Bonus Chapter)
The lingering heat of late summer had not yet dissipated, but the coolness of autumn had already quietly permeated the eaves and brackets of the Luoyang Imperial Palace.

Inside the elegantly decorated, yet strangely empty, palace belonging to the Third Prince Liu Li.

The atmosphere was so oppressive, like an impending storm.

Liu Li paced back and forth on the floor covered with a straw mat, his hands behind his back.

His brows were furrowed, and his once handsome face was now shrouded in an unyielding gloom and anxiety.

The ice chest in the corner of the hall emitted a chill, but it did nothing to cool the restlessness in his heart.

Not long ago, there was the shocking treason case involving my second brother, Liu Yong.

And his tragic end, being stripped of his title and exiled to Lingnan.

It was like a huge shadow, weighing heavily on his heart.

He could almost hear Liu Yong's frantic cries and his father's roar, filled with suppressed grief and despair, outside the Xuan Shi Hall that day.

The imperial court is ruthless; this has always been the case.

But when all this bloodshed happens around you,
The impact and fear it brought are unimaginable to outsiders.

“Your Highness,” a clear voice broke the silence in the hall.

Chen Tai, the Gentleman Attendant, had quietly entered the room at some unknown time.

He looked at the anxious Liu Li and asked with concern:
Why is Your Highness so restless today?

"Your Highness appears deeply troubled, pacing back and forth. Is there something troubling you?"

Liu Li stopped and sighed heavily.

He walked to the window, gazing at the still lush yet subtly desolate vegetation in the palace gardens, and spoke in a low voice:

“Xuanbo, it is not that I am troubled for no reason.”

"...You also know about what happened to my second brother recently."

"Seeing him go from being the dignified King of Wu to a prisoner in an instant, and exiled to a land of pestilence..."

"When a rabbit dies, the fox mourns; all creatures mourn their own kind."

"Thinking about it makes me so uneasy that I can't eat or sleep."

Upon hearing this, Chen Tai's expression also became more serious.

He pondered for a moment and offered his words of comfort:
"...Your Highness is overthinking it."

"The matter of the King of Wu was due to his own mistakes."

"Disobeying one's sovereign and father and violating the laws of the country are the reasons for this consequence."

"Your Highness has always been cautious in your words and deeds, and has always adhered to the proper etiquette of a subject."

"He has done nothing wrong, neither to the country nor to his family."

"His Majesty and the Crown Prince are well aware of Your Highness's virtue and talent."

"Just continue to be loyal to your duties and cultivate your character."

"Then your position will be as secure as Mount Tai. Why imitate a frightened bird and invite trouble upon yourself?"

Liu Li shook his head, turned around, and a barely perceptible hint of helplessness and determination flashed in his eyes:
“Xuanbo’s words are reasonable, but…”

"I have been thinking about this recently. This bustling capital city may seem peaceful, but in reality, there are turbulent undercurrents."

"It is not a good place to stay for long."

"The lesson of my second brother's experience is still fresh in our minds."

"...I think that leaving this place of trouble is the way to preserve myself."

Chen Tai was about to persuade him again when a palace attendant entered and reported:
"Your Highness, His Highness the Crown Prince has given an order."

"It is said that the envoys from the three kingdoms of Shanshan, Shule, and Yanqi in the Western Regions have arrived at the guesthouse."

"Please, Your Highness, go to receive them on behalf of the court, to show the Celestial Empire's intention to appease distant peoples."

Upon hearing this, Liu Li had no choice but to temporarily suppress the chaotic thoughts in his mind.

He straightened his clothes and said to Chen Tai:

“In that case, Xuanbo, please come with me.”

"Oh, go and summon Yuan Xun again."

Zhuge Ke, the Cavalry Commandant, was the son of Zhuge Jin.

A young prodigy, he was about the same age as Liu Li and Chen Tai, and they had always been good friends.

The group arrived at the guesthouse where foreign envoys were received.

The three envoys were dressed differently and looked quite different from the people of the Central Plains.

They all wore respectful expressions, some even hinting at fear.

They brought not only fine wines, crystal-clear fruits, and dozens of magnificent Akhal-Teke horses, all special products of the Western Regions.

Even more surprisingly, each envoy was accompanied by a boy who was only about ten years old and dressed in magnificent Western Region attire.

"This is the prince of my kingdoms of Shanshan, Shule, and Yanqi..."

"By order of my king, I have come to Luoyang to pay homage to His Majesty the Emperor of the Celestial Dynasty."

"We are willing to be a vassal state forever, serving the Celestial Empire!"

The three envoys spoke in unison, adopting an extremely humble posture.

Liu Li understood that this was how the prince was presented.

They were nominally serving, but in reality, they were hostages.

Unless there is an extreme difficulty, they would never have taken this action.

He gently asked the envoys to rise, offered them seats and tea, and then inquired:
"...You have come from afar and presented such generous gifts."

"They even offered a prince as a hostage, demonstrating their sincerity."

"However, the Celestial Empire neither takes away the beauty of others nor forces others to do anything."

"If you have any difficulties, feel free to speak frankly."

"If it is reasonable, I may pass it on to the court."

Upon hearing this, the envoy from Shanshan immediately left his seat.

She fell to her knees with a thud, her voice trembling with tears:

"Your Highness of the Celestial Empire!"

"The small country is grateful for the great favor of the Celestial Empire and has reopened the Protectorate of the Western Regions to protect trade routes."

"This kindness, which allows us merchants to travel safely eastward, is like a second birth!"

"However... however, the Kingdom of Kucha to the west of our country is now bullying the weak."

"In recent years, they have continuously sent troops to harass our territory, abduct our people, and seize our cattle and sheep."

"Our city has been repeatedly ravaged by war! We have also sought help from the Protectorate of the Western Regions."

"However... however, that Chief Secretary said that the Protectorate General's responsibility..."

"Only to safeguard the smooth flow of trade routes and ensure the safety of merchants and travelers."

"As for the disputes between the various countries in the Western Regions, these are matters of internal affairs for each country."

"The Celestial Empire...will not interfere!"

"They actually stood by and watched as our Shanshan, Shule, Yanqi, and other countries were bullied and had no way to seek help!"

“Our king was truly desperate, so... so he had no choice but to offer up the prince.”

"We implore Your Majesty the Emperor of the Celestial Empire to send heavenly troops to save our small nation from this calamity!"

The envoys from Shule and Yanqi also knelt down immediately, echoing their pleas and pleading with tears streaming down their faces.

As Liu Li listened, his brows gradually furrowed.

He gently reassured everyone, saying:

"Please rise, esteemed envoys. I am already aware of this matter."

"Since you have sincerely submitted, the Celestial Empire has no reason to stand idly by while its vassals are bullied."

"Let us stay here at the guesthouse for now. Once I have informed His Majesty and the Cabinet, they will surely take appropriate action."

After settling the envoys in, Liu Li had already made up his mind.

This matter concerns the stability of the Western Regions and the prestige of the Celestial Empire; it is of utmost importance.

He immediately took Chen Tai and Zhuge Ke to the palace.

He wished to see his father, Emperor Liu Bei, and explain the advantages and disadvantages.

however,
When they reached the outside of Liu Bei's palace, they were respectfully and firmly stopped by the Yellow Gate Attendant on duty:

"...Your Highness, please wait."

"His Majesty's health has not yet recovered, and the imperial physicians have advised that he must rest absolutely. He will not see anyone today."

"If there are any important matters, Your Highness, please come to the Cabinet to discuss them with the Grand Secretaries."

Looking at the tightly closed palace gates and the solemn expressions of the guards, Liu Li felt a pang of sadness.

I know that my father's illness is probably more serious than the rumors outside.

He had no choice but to turn around and head to the main hall where the cabinet was located.

Upon hearing the news brought by Liu Li, Prime Minister Zhuge Liang dared not be negligent.

He immediately convened a meeting of the main cabinet ministers in Beijing.

Besides Zhuge Liang himself, there were also important ministers such as Xu Shu, Pang Tong, and Liu Ye.

At the meeting, opinions quickly split into two camps.

Xu Shu spoke first; he was calm and composed, and had a long-term vision.
"Your Highness, fellow colleagues."

"In my humble opinion, the matter concerning the Western Regions should follow the established policy of Prime Minister Li."

"The primary task of our dynasty in re-establishing the Protectorate of the Western Regions is to ensure the smooth flow of the Silk Road."

"To enable unimpeded trade and commerce, and facilitate the circulation of goods."

"To replenish the national treasury and benefit the people."

"If we rashly intervene in the internal conflicts of the Western Regions, it will be like getting stuck in a quagmire."

"War and turmoil will ensue, and it may be difficult to extricate oneself from this predicament."

"When Emperor Wu of Han opened up the Western Regions, although his power spread far and wide, it cost a great deal of money."

"The waste of resources at home and abroad serves as a stark reminder of past mistakes."

"Now that the country has been newly established, everything needs to be rebuilt."

"It is time to allow the people to rest and recuperate, and to build up national strength."

"It is really not advisable to waste money, food and manpower in such a remote place as the Western Regions."

Xu Shu steadfastly upheld the national policies established by Li Yi.

Li Yi's original intention in re-establishing the Protectorate of the Western Regions was to protect the Silk Road.

By opening up foreign trade routes, the country can increase its foreign exchange earnings.

Interfering in the internal affairs of other countries by sending troops would not only disrupt trade routes.

It would also undermine the original purpose of establishing the Protectorate of the Western Regions.

Li Yi's views are somewhat similar to those of Victorian England.

I just want to do business and make money; I don't want to resort to violence unless absolutely necessary.

Because Li Yi always firmly believed,

When it comes to doing business, no one in the world can beat the Chinese.

It is far better to let wealth flow into China continuously than to enslave other countries through military force.

This also aligns with the concept of "subduing the enemy without fighting" in Sun Tzu's Art of War.

Xu Shu was a staunch supporter of Li Yi in the court, and naturally opposed any decisions that would shake Li Yi's policies.

However, this view was immediately refuted by Pang Tong.

He was passionate and skilled in devising ingenious strategies.

"...Brother Yuanzhi, you are mistaken!"

"Why are so many kingdoms in the Western Regions sending envoys to pay tribute?"

"Precisely because its country is small and weak, it has to rely on the Celestial Empire for support!"

"If we sit idly by and watch Kucha grow stronger and unify the Western Regions."

"Once their power has grown, why would they still obey orders from Luoyang?"

"At that time, not only will trade routes be in jeopardy, but we may also be raising a tiger that will turn out to be a threat."

"Let it become a major threat to our western border!"

"The prestige of the Celestial Empire lies in its ability to protect its vassal states."

"If we stand by and do nothing to help those in distress, the nations will become disaffected, and the Silk Road will become nothing but a castle in the air!"

"We should use overwhelming force to intimidate the disobedient."

"Only in this way can we ensure lasting peace in the Western Regions!"

Liu Ye, however, holds a more moderate view:
"Shiyuan's words have some merit."

"However, the matter of waging war concerns the very foundation of the nation."

"The Western Regions are remote and supplies are difficult to obtain."

"The climate is harsh, the army is on a long expedition, and the outcome is uncertain."

Even if we win, it will be difficult to hold out for long.

"When Emperor Xuan of Han established the Protectorate of the Western Regions, it was a period of great prosperity."

"However, after several generations, the country was unable to maintain its power due to the decline of national strength and the disturbances caused by the Qiang and Hu peoples."

"It is clear that relying solely on military force is not a long-term solution."

"We still need to focus on control and trade."

Liu Ye truly deserves his reputation as a master strategist; he has also gained considerable experience under Li Yi's guidance for many years.

Therefore, his thinking gradually leaned towards Li Yi's direction.

They agreed with Li Yi's view that he controlled other countries through "tributary system and trade" as the main axis.

Everyone held different opinions and the argument continued.

Zhuge Liang gently waved his feather fan and listened quietly for a long time.

After the crowd subsided slightly, he slowly began to speak.
His voice was clear and persuasive.

"Your concerns are all valid."

"However, there may be a way that can satisfy all parties."

“I think the Celestial Empire can step in and follow the example of Ban Dingyuan of the Former Han Dynasty.”

"Integrate the available troops from the various kingdoms of the Western Regions and form a force under the jurisdiction of the Protectorate of the Western Regions."

"However, it was a 'coalition' composed of troops from various countries."

"The Celestial Empire dispatched capable generals to command and train them."

"Used to maintain order in the Western Regions and to punish those who disobey."

"In this way, we can demonstrate the Celestial Empire's determination to maintain stability in the Western Regions and deter powerful countries like Kucha."

"It can also significantly reduce the central government's burden of food and military supplies."

"To resolve matters concerning the Western Regions as much as possible within the Western Regions."

Pang Tong's eyes lit up, and he clapped his hands in praise:

"Brilliant! This plan is excellent!!"

"The reason why the kingdoms of the Western Regions are like a heap of loose sand is because they are of different races and have different beliefs."

"With such different customs, it is difficult to reach a consensus."

"However, they all feared the might of the Celestial Empire's army and admired the culture of the Central Plains."

"If the Celestial Empire takes the lead, they will rush to join its ranks!"

"This will not only solve the problem of manpower, but also allow us to deepen our control over other countries!"

Upon hearing this suggestion, Xu Shu, Liu Ye, and others pondered for a moment.

They also felt that this method was quite prudent, as it prevented the empire from being directly drawn into a quagmire of war.

This would effectively safeguard the empire's interests and prestige in the Western Regions, and thus many expressed their seconding of the proposal.

With the strategy set, the next crucial issue is the selection of personnel.

Zhuge Liang surveyed the assembled officials and said in a deep voice:
"This journey to the Western Regions is no ordinary one."

"Not only should we properly organize the allied forces, but we should also maintain a long-term presence there."

"To coordinate all parties and demonstrate the might and virtue of the Celestial Empire."

"Only those with great wisdom and courage, loyalty and reliability, and expertise in military and political affairs can be competent for this position."

"A capable and senior official is needed to take charge."

"I wonder... who among you is willing to shoulder this heavy responsibility?"

He asked three times in a row, his gaze sweeping over Xu Shu, Pang Tong, and Liu Ye.

Even some other officials present.

However, he was met with an awkward silence.

The Western Regions are harsh and cold, far removed from the prosperity of the Central Plains.

They don't speak the same language and have very different customs.

And now, years have passed, and I don't know when I will be able to return.

It's tantamount to a disguised form of exile!

Everyone lowered their heads and looked away, some pretending to be deep in thought, others showing signs of distress.

In short, no one responded.

Upon seeing this, Zhuge Liang felt a surge of disappointment and regret.

He sighed softly, his voice tinged with sorrow:

"Could it be that... all of you have become addicted to the glitz and glamour of Luoyang, and are enjoying your high positions and power in the imperial court?"

"Have you forgotten the hardships we endured when we followed Your Majesty, starting from humble beginnings, overcoming countless difficulties to establish this empire?"

"Such important matters of state, yet no one dares to take on the responsibility?"

Just as the hall fell silent and Zhuge Liang was at his wit's end...

A clear and firm voice rang out, breaking the deadlock:

"Prime Minister Zhuge! Gentlemen!"

"If no one is willing to go, Liu Li... is willing to volunteer to go on a mission to the Western Regions."

"The Changzhen Protectorate integrates various kingdoms."

"For the sake of our great Han Dynasty, let us open up a new chapter in the Western Regions!"

Everyone looked in the direction of the voice and saw the Third Prince Liu Li stepping forward with his head held high.

His expression was solemn, and his gaze was firm.

As soon as this statement came out, the whole hall was shocked!

Even Zhuge Liang was both surprised and delighted.

He strode forward, looked at Liu Li, and confirmed:

"Your Highness! Is this true?"

"The harshness of the environment in the Western Regions far exceeds Your Highness's imagination."

"Yellow sand fills the sky, and water is extremely scarce."

"Hu Feng is fierce and his language is difficult to understand."

"Moreover, this journey will not be completed in a year or two, but may take ten or eight years, and it may still be difficult to return to the capital."

"Your Highness is of noble birth; how can you endure such hardship? We urge Your Highness to reconsider!"

Liu Li met Zhuge Liang's gaze without flinching, and resolutely said:

"Prime Minister, there's no need to persuade me any further!"

"A true man should not fail to achieve great things and serve his country."

"What difference is there between living a life of luxury and idleness, living in fine clothes and eating delicacies, and rotting wood and decaying grass?"

“The Western Regions were opened up during the reign of Emperor Wu, and it was a vital passage connecting the west.”

"The prosperity of the Silk Road is crucial to the national economy and people's livelihood."

"However, due to frequent wars in later generations, it was lost several times."

"Now, thanks to the blessing of Heaven, the Han Dynasty has been reunited."

"We should follow the example of our predecessors, re-establish our control over the Western Regions, and spread our power and virtue in this remote land."

"This is a great undertaking that will benefit the present and future generations!"

"Though I am not talented, I am willing to emulate the ambitions of Zhang Qian and Ban Chao."

"To share the burdens of the court and pave the way for the world!!"

These words are very powerful.

He was filled with lofty ambitions, which made many officials who had just backed down look ashamed.

Zhuge Liang's eyes showed even greater admiration, and he bowed deeply:
"Your Highness's ambition is truly a blessing for the nation!"

"However, this matter concerns the prince's distant campaign, and His Majesty's personal approval is still required."

"Please enter the palace immediately, Your Highness, and report to His Majesty in person."

Liu Li nodded and went to Liu Bei's bedroom again.

This time, after being informed, he was allowed to enter.

The palace was filled with the fragrance of medicine, and Liu Bei lay on his couch.

His face was haggard, and his breath was weak.

Liu Li knelt before the bed and explained his thoughts and the cabinet's decision in detail.

Liu Bei listened quietly, his cloudy gaze lingering for a long time on his son's young yet determined face.

His gaze was filled with complex emotions, a mixture of reluctance and worry.

But in the end, it was more of a sense of relief and a feeling of being able to see his son grow up.

He raised his hand with difficulty and waved it gently.

His lips moved slightly, making a faint sound:

"Yes...yes...go...go then...good...do well..."

With his father's approval, Liu Li felt much more at ease.

After bowing in gratitude, he left the palace.

Upon returning to his residence, Liu Li told his wife, Chen Yao, about the matter.

Chen Yao was born into the Chen family of Huainan and was well-educated and reasonable.

She was startled at first, then tears welled up in her beautiful eyes:
"...My husband...is from the bitterly cold Western Regions."

"Although I have not been there in person, I have heard that the wind and sand are fierce and the people are suffering."

"Moreover, the customs of the barbarians are not yet assimilated, and they are quite different from those of our Central Plains, a land of etiquette and propriety."

“If we stay there for a long time, I fear… I fear that we will gradually be influenced by the barbarian ways and be looked down upon by the scholars of the Central Plains.”

Liu Li held his wife's hand and said gently:
"Yao'er, do you think I don't know your heart?"

"However, a true man's ambition lies in all corners of the world."

"If one were to spend one's life in the bustling city of Luoyang, though it would be peaceful, it would be nothing more than a mediocre existence, a waste of time."

"Go to the Western Regions and unite the various kingdoms."

"Though the difficulties and dangers are immense, they are all for my father, for the court, and for the great Han dynasty—"

"Expand our territory and consolidate our borders!"

"This is a real achievement, far superior to the pretense and backstabbing that one does in the capital."

Seeing the unwavering resolve in her husband's eyes, Chen Yao knew that he had made up his mind to leave.

She lowered her tearful eyes and remained silent for a moment.

When he raised his head again, although there were still tears in his eyes, there was now a hint of determination in them:

“Since my husband has made up his mind, I will follow him to the death.”

"Even if it means going to the ends of the earth, facing mountains of knives and seas of fire, I will have no regrets."

Liu Li was deeply moved and pulled her into his arms, saying with emotion:
"If you have such a wife, what more can a husband ask for!"

"But the conditions in the Western Regions are harsh, and I truly cannot bear to see you suffer..."

Chen Yao gently covered his mouth with her hand and said softly:
"...Husband, please don't say any more."

“From the day I married into the Prince’s mansion, I have been a member of the Liu family.”

"My husband's will is my will."

"How can a husband travel far away while his wife stays at home?"

After calming his wife down, Liu Li summoned his officials and retainers.

He announced his intention to travel to the Western Regions, and stated that the journey would be long and the environment harsh.

Moreover, the return date is uncertain, and I do not wish to force anyone to stay or leave; it is up to everyone to decide.

Sure enough, the news spread.

The once bustling Prince's mansion suddenly became mostly deserted.

The vast majority of retainers and officials could not bear to give up the comfort and potential future in Luoyang.

They all cited the reasons that their parents were old and their wives and children needed care.

He politely declined, citing various excuses such as his own lack of talent and knowledge, which might lead to serious consequences.

finally,
Only about thirty people were willing to abandon their families and follow Liu Li to that unknown place!
Looking at these few dozen resolute yet somewhat fearful faces, Liu Li felt a pang of sadness.

But more than anything, I felt gratitude.

He bowed deeply to the crowd:
"I am deeply grateful for your noble character, everyone!"

"The journey to the Western Regions is fraught with uncertainty, whether it will bring good or bad fortune."

"To stand shoulder to shoulder with you all, even if I die nine times, I will not regret it!"

Just as he was preparing to set off with these thirty-odd people, Chen Tai, the Gentleman Attendant, and Zhuge Ke, the Cavalry Commandant, arrived together.

Both of them had changed into comfortable clothes suitable for long journeys, and were followed by several strong servants who carried their packs on horseback.

"Your Highness!"

Chen Tai and Zhuge Ke bowed in unison, saying, "Your Highness, we are willing to accompany you to the Western Regions and do our utmost to help!"

Liu Li looked at them, feeling both moved and surprised:

"Xuanbo, Yuanxun! You two...why are you doing this?"

“Your fathers were all pillars of the court.”

"You yourselves have bright futures, so stay in the capital."

"It will not be difficult for him to be ennobled and appointed prime minister in the future."

"Why come with me to that desolate place and suffer?"

Zhuge Ke laughed loudly:
"Why do you say that, Your Highness? Ke and Xuanbo have been friends with Your Highness since they were young."

"We studied and practiced martial arts together, worked together for many years, and were as close as brothers."

"Now that Your Highness intends to undertake this grand undertaking, how can we be covetous of the capital's prosperity and become cowards?"

"We should share both good times and bad!"

Chen Tai also solemnly replied, "...That's right."

“Since Your Highness treats me as a national hero, I will repay you as a national hero.”

"Although the Western Regions are far away, it is a great pleasure for a man to follow Your Highness in expanding the territory and spreading the king's rule!"

"No matter how promising the future may be, how can it compare to walking alongside a true friend and creating great achievements together?"

Liu Li looked at his two close friends, his eyes welling up with tears.

He patted them heavily on the shoulder, a thousand words unspoken:

"Excellent! Excellent! With such a friend, Liu Li has no regrets in this life!"

"We... are colleagues!"

The day we set off was a clear and crisp autumn day.

Outside Luoyang, Crown Prince Liu Shan personally led a hundred officials to see off the delegation of his third brother, Liu Li.

The procession was magnificent, with drums and music filling the air.

But a faint sense of melancholy and parting permeated the air.

Liu Shan held Liu Li's hand, his eyes filled with reluctance and worry:

"Third brother, this journey is ten thousand miles long, and mountains and passes will block our way."

"Please take good care of yourself."

"As for the matters concerning the Western Regions, we should do our best."

"If things are impossible, there is no need to force it; return home as soon as possible."

Looking at his elder brother, Liu Li was filled with emotion.

He gripped Liu Shan's hand tightly and said in a deep voice:

"Your Highness, rest assured, I understand."

"The capital... Father Emperor and the country are entrusted to my elder brother."

"I hope my brother will take good care of himself."

"Strive for excellence and prosperity, so that our great Han Dynasty may last forever!"

The two brothers held hands and looked at each other for a long time. Then Liu Li resolutely turned around, mounted his horse, and swung himself onto the ground.

Chen Yao's carriage followed closely behind, followed by Chen Tai and Zhuge Ke.

And the thirty-odd brave warriors who volunteered to follow them.

There were also envoys and hostages from the three kingdoms of Shanshan, Shule, and Yanqi.

The procession, in a grand and orderly fashion, headed towards the northwest.

About thirty miles outside the capital, at a long pavilion.

Liu Li reined in his horse and turned back to face Liu Shan and his officials, who were still watching them off.

He bowed deeply from afar and said in a clear voice:
"Even after seeing you off for a thousand miles, we must eventually part ways!"

"Your Majesty, gentlemen, please return!"

"Liu Li... is gone!"

Having said that, he didn't look back.

They spurred their mounts forward and joined the entire delegation on the long official road leading to Jiuquan Prefecture.

The figure gradually disappeared at the edge of the autumn field.

Ahead of them lay the vast Gobi Desert.

It is an unknown challenge, and a path full of difficulties and obstacles.

Yet, the Western Regions route also holds infinite possibilities and potential for great achievements.

……

It was early autumn, and the Central Plains were already feeling cool.

However, on this rugged mountain road leading to Lingnan.

The sweltering heat remained like a sticky, damp cloth, tightly enveloping every pedestrian.

The air was filled with a strange smell of decaying vegetation mixed with damp, hot soil.

Swarms of mosquitoes buzzed incessantly.

A group of about ten officials dressed in their uniforms and carrying iron rulers and ring-pommel swords at their waists.

They were escorting a special prisoner, making a difficult trek along an ancient road that was almost swallowed up by rampant ferns and vines.

The prisoner was none other than Liu Yong, the former King of Wu, who had been stripped of his title and exiled to Lingnan.

Unlike the previous time when riding in the cage,
At this moment, Liu Yong had a heavy wooden cangue around his neck.

His wrists and ankles were locked with thick iron chains.

The other end of the chain was held in the hand of a burly official.

With each step, the chains rattled.

The wooden shackles rubbed against his skin beneath his tattered prison clothes, already soaked with sweat, leaving streaks of blood.

The reason for such strict surveillance was that he had a prior record of escaping and killing soldiers on the Shu Road.

Furthermore, the imperial court intended to highlight the gravity of his crimes.

Therefore, the escort team consisted of far more people than ordinary exiled prisoners, and the security was extremely tight.

The mountain roads in Lingnan are inherently treacherous and difficult to traverse.

In addition, the rainy season had just ended, and the roads were slippery and muddy, making it even more difficult to walk.

Liu Yong had been pampered since childhood and had never suffered such hardship.
After days of trekking, his feet were covered in blisters.

Blood blisters burst, mixing with sweat and mud.

Every step they took felt like stepping on a red-hot iron.

The excruciating pain contorted his face, and cold sweat mingled with hot sweat.

He looked as if he had been pulled out of the water.

My throat was so dry it felt like it was on fire, as if even breathing could produce sparks.

"Water...give me...give me water..."

Liu Yong finally couldn't hold on any longer and, with his hoarse voice like a broken gong, let out a weak plea.

The head escort officer was a dark-skinned man with a fierce-looking face.

His surname is Wang, and he is known as Wang Tou.

He turned around at the sound, his face showing extreme impatience. He spat out a mouthful of phlegm and cursed:

"Damn it! He's yelling again!"

"You've been causing trouble the whole way! Do you really think you're some kind of pampered prince?"

"A prisoner under the guise of a stutterer will be allowed to linger on his way to Lingnan."

"You've already shown me such boundless grace! How dare you still pester me for water?"

He grew angrier and angrier as he spoke, and suddenly untied a leather whip from his waist.

After crackling loudly in the air,
Without saying a word, he started slapping Liu Yong across the face!

"Clap! Clap! Clap!"

The whip, like a venomous snake, fell mercilessly on Liu Yong's back, shoulders, and even face.

Several bloody gashes instantly appeared, tearing the skin and flesh.

Liu Yong screamed repeatedly, trying to block the pain with his hands.

Restricted by the wooden shackles, they could only curl up and helplessly endure the brutal beatings.

"Ah—stop hitting me!"

"I...I don't want water anymore! Stop hitting me!"

The intense pain made him temporarily forget his thirst, leaving only his instinct for survival, and he screamed for mercy.

Wang Tou lashed Liu Yong several more times until Liu Yong collapsed to the ground.

Only painful groans remained before he reluctantly stopped.

He spat on Liu Yong:
"Pah! You worthless wretch!!"

"You won't behave unless you're beaten! Listen up, all of you."

"If this bastard dares to yell again, I'll beat him to death!"

"Just stay alive until you reach your destination and hand over your report!"

The other officials chuckled and echoed their agreement.

The look in his eyes as he looked at Liu Yong was filled with contempt and a kind of pleasure in tormenting the weak.

In their eyes, this former prince is now nothing more than a piece of meat on their chopping board.

You can roll it into a ball or flatten it as you like.

When someone falls from a high position, it always makes people want to bully them.

Amidst the beatings, curses, and ridicule of the crowd, Liu Yong, like a walking corpse, was dragged along by the iron chains.

The arrogance, resentment, and bitterness of the past

Under the extreme physical pain and continuous mental torment, they seemed to have become numb.

Only that deep-seated humiliation, like a maggot clinging to his bone, gnawed at his remaining self-esteem.

We walked for a while longer.

The team ventured deep into the heart of Lingnan, surrounded by even denser, sunless primeval forests.

Suddenly, Liu Yong felt a sharp, cramping pain in his lower abdomen, as if his intestines were churning.

His face turned deathly pale instantly, he was drenched in cold sweat, he clenched his legs together, and said in a trembling voice:

"Sir...sir...I...I need to use the restroom..."

"I...I really can't hold it in anymore..."

Upon hearing this, the officials showed no sympathy but instead burst into even louder laughter.

Wang Tou walked up to Liu Yong, lifted his chin with the tip of his whip, his face full of mockery and wariness:

"Go to the toilet? Hahaha!!"

"Liu Yong, are you trying to pull the same trick again?"

"Last time on the Shu Road, you used the excuse of going to the toilet to kill one of our brothers and then took the opportunity to escape!"

"As a result, the team of brothers who were protecting you back then were all severely punished!"

Do you think I'd fall for your tricks again?

Liu Yong was so anxious he almost cried, his body trembling slightly from the intense urge to defecate.
"No...no...this time it's for real!"

"It's absolutely true! Sirs... please... have mercy..."

A tall, thin officer standing nearby chuckled sinisterly:

"Boss, I think he really can't hold it in any longer."

"However... since we're worried about him escaping, that's easy to handle."

He turned to Liu Yong, his tone flippant yet cruel.

"You need to poop, right? Then just poop in your pants!"

"Let you, the former 'prince,' taste the sweetness of 'golden trousers'!"

"Hahahaha!"

"You...you guys!"

Liu Yong was so angry that he trembled all over, and a surge of blood rushed to the top of his head.

That long-extinguished pride seemed to have a final burst of light at this moment; he suddenly raised his head, his eyes bloodshot.

He glared at the tall, thin officer and roared:

"You lowly slaves! How dare you insult me ​​like this!"

"I...I'll fight you to the death!"

Saying,

He recklessly dragged his heavy shackles and charged at the tall, thin officer like a mad bull!

however,
He was extremely weak at this moment, and his hands and feet were bound, so his movements were clumsy and slow.

The tall, thin officer simply smiled contemptuously and easily dodged to the side.

Liu Yong couldn't stop in time, and with his shackles tripping him, he fell heavily forward.

With a "plop," he fell flat on his face, looking like a dog.

His cheek slammed hard onto the muddy ground, causing his nose to bleed profusely and several of his front teeth to loosen.

"Hahaha! You think you can fight a man like that?"

"Does he still think he's some high and mighty prince?"

"Wake up! You're not even as good as a stray dog ​​now!"

"Even if we torture you to death right here, we'll throw you to the jackals in the mountains."

Who could know? Who would care?

The officials surrounded him, pointing at Liu Yong, who was lying on the ground in a disheveled state.

They used every trick in the book to mock others, and their laughter echoed through the valley.

It seems particularly harsh.

Liu Yong lay on the ground, the intense pain and extreme shame and indignation almost causing him to faint.

But what's even more devastating is that the cramping in my lower abdomen has reached an unbearable limit.

He tried to tighten his muscles, but it was all in vain.

Finally, amidst a violent spasm and an indescribable sense of shame...

The stench instantly filled the air.

"vomit--!"

"It stinks like hell!"

"That damn piece of trash!"

The officials pinched their noses and backed away, their faces showing extreme disgust.

The curses were even more offensive.

The triangular-eyed officer was even more enraged, feeling disgusted by this filth.

He stepped forward, raised his foot, clad in a hard-soled official boot, and stomped hard on the back of Liu Yong's head.

"Uh...wu..."

Liu Yong struggled desperately, but his neck was firmly pinned down, and the immense force rendered him completely immobile.

His mouth and nose were instantly overwhelmed by the stench of filth, and the feeling of suffocation and unprecedented humiliation engulfed him like a tidal wave.

His eyes were wide open, bloodshot.

A desperate, muffled sob escaped his throat, and his teeth clenched so tightly they seemed about to break.

At that moment, he felt as if he had fallen into the deepest hell.

Despite their reluctance, the officers could not bear to continue accompanying a prisoner who reeked of stench.

The team leader was cursing and giving orders that someone should be found to take Liu Yong to a nearby stream to clean him up.

"Who's going? This is such a terrible job!"

The team leader frowned as he scanned the crowd.

The officials all looked disgusted and retreated without responding.

For a long time,

The two taciturn, burly men with full beards in the group exchanged a glance and stepped forward.

These two men were named Wang Mang and Li Hu.

He has a fierce appearance and is known in the team for his strength and boldness, but he is also silent and sinister.

"Squad leader, let's go, you and I."

Wang Mang spoke in a deep, muffled voice, a subtle, eerie smile playing at the corners of his lips.

The team leader glanced at them, then at Liu Yong, who lay on the ground like a lump of mud.

Seemingly understanding something, he waved his hand, his tone carrying a hint of tacit approval or even indulgence:
"Go quickly and come back quickly! Wash yourself thoroughly!"

"Just don't... just don't let it really lead to someone dying."

The last sentence is quite meaningful.

Several seasoned officers nearby seemed to understand as well, letting out a few malicious chuckles:
"Wang Mang, Li Hu, you two better watch out."

"This delicate girl can't take your rough treatment!"

"That's right. Even though a phoenix that has lost its feathers is no better than a chicken, it was still... once a golden branch and a jade leaf!"

Wang Mang and Li Hu simply chuckled twice without replying.

They stepped forward and, like dragging a dead dog, lifted up Liu Yong, who was limp and reeking of a foul stench.

I walked toward the direction from which the sound of water came from deep within the woods.

Arriving at a relatively secluded stream, the two roughly threw Liu Yong into the knee-deep, icy water.

The cold stimulus brought Liu Yong to his senses somewhat.

Wang Mang and Li Hu haphazardly ripped off his filthy trousers and washed his body with the stream water.

The water carried away the filth, revealing the fair skin beneath, which, though covered in scars, still showed signs of a pampered past.

Looking at Liu Yong's body, which was trembling slightly from fear and cold, a lewd glint flashed in Wang Mang's eyes.

He reached out, his rough fingers tracing across Liu Yong's smooth skin, clicking his tongue in amazement:

"Hey, Li Hu, look at you, no wonder you have the blood of the imperial family."

"Being born a prince, his skin is so different from our rough men's; it's as delicate as a woman's..."

Liu Yong shuddered violently, gripped by a premonition more terrifying than death.

He looked up in terror, his voice trembling:

"What...what do you want to do?!"

Li Hu grinned maliciously and shoved him down onto the pebbles by the stream. The cold, hard stones hurt him terribly.

"Young prince, please stop shouting."

"Be a good boy and cooperate with me, and I'll make your suffering less."

With his other hand, he began to undo his belt.

Liu Yong instantly understood their intentions!

He was not unaware of this; he had occasionally heard of it within the palace.

But to my utter surprise,

"Get out of here! You beasts! How dare you!!"

……

I do not know how long it has been,

His vision went black, his mind completely collapsed, and he fainted.

The following days became the last and darkest nightmare of Liu Yong's life.

Whenever the group rested, or on a deserted section of the road, Wang Mang and Li Hu would find an opportunity to drag him to a secluded place.

Some people might even stand by and watch for amusement.

The team leader simply turned a blind eye.

As long as people don't die, let them be.

His eyes became empty and numb, like a puppet whose soul had been taken away.

Even the most basic sense of resistance has disappeared.

As the group was finally about to emerge from the dense forests of Lingnan and approach the relatively open official road near the seat of Jiaozhou,

One morning,
The group found Liu Yong curled up under a large tree, motionless.

"Hey! Get up! Stop playing dead!"

An officer stepped forward and kicked him.

Liu Yong did not react.

The officer bent down to check the patient's breath and then touched the patient's neck.

His expression immediately changed, and he turned to the team leader, saying:

"Boss... he's... he's not breathing."

The crowd gathered around, and saw Liu Yong's eyes wide open.

His pupils were dilated, and his face was frozen with extreme pain and humiliation.

There was still white foam and dried blood at the corner of his mouth.

He was filthy, reeked of foul odor, and looked emaciated.

His death was extremely wretched, even worse than that of a beggar on the street.

"Pah! What a damn bad luck!"

The captain spat, his face showing no pity, only disgust.

"What a waste of all our time, escorting this piece of trash this far!"

"Exactly! If we'd known it was this fragile, we should have done it sooner..."

Someone echoed this, glancing at Wang Mang and Li Hu.

The two simply shrugged expressionlessly.

"Boss, what do we do now?"

"The person is dead, how are we going to explain this?" someone asked.

The team leader waved his hand impatiently:

"What's so difficult about that? Of the criminals exiled to Lingnan, only one out of ten is likely to survive!"

"He was unaccustomed to the local environment and contracted malaria."

"Dying on the road is a very common occurrence!"

"Just report it like that! Do you think the imperial court would send someone to investigate such a useless person?"

"Just dig a hole and bury it, that'll be the end of it!"

So the officials hastily dug a shallow pit by the roadside.

They threw Liu Yong's body, along with the heavy shackles and chains, into the pit, haphazardly covered it with dirt, and left no mark.

Some people even spat on the fresh soil, cursing and urging others to leave quickly.

Go to the Jiaozhou government office to report back and receive your reward.

Jiang Wan, courtesy name Gongyan, was the governor of Jiaozhou and a former disciple and official of Zhuge Liang.

Known for his prudence, steadiness, and compassion for the people.

When he received the report from the escort team that Liu Yong, the deposed commoner, had died of illness during his exile, he couldn't help but have doubts.

He knew all too well how dangerous the malaria was in Lingnan, but Liu Yong's death was far too sudden.

Out of caution, and also out of respect for the former royal bloodline.

He personally led a team to the location where the body was found and ordered the body to be dug up again.

He then summoned the accompanying medical officer for a thorough examination.

The gruesome state of the corpse horrified Jiang Wan.

It wasn't just the appearance of someone dying from illness; there were also the wounds on his body, especially the injuries in certain hidden areas, and the expression of despair frozen on his face.

They all silently tell of the inhuman torture the deceased had suffered during their lives.

After examining her, the physician also whispered to Jiang Wan about many suspicious points.

The deceased was ultimately confirmed to be Liu Yong.

Jiang Wan stood before the gruesome corpse, remaining silent for a long time.

Even this usually calm and capable official couldn't help but reveal a complex sense of pity in his eyes.

He let out a long sigh, his voice low and weary:
"...Alas...How tragic, how lamentable..."

"Even with a thousand faults and ten thousand sins, in the end..."

"He was once a prince of the imperial family, a golden branch and jade leaf..."

"How could it come to this... a fate so cruel... left to rot in the wilderness, like dogs and pigs..."

"How tragic, how lamentable..."

He waved his hand and solemnly instructed his subordinates:
"Go, let those officers and soldiers who are escorting the prisoners go and collect their reward money as usual."

Then, he said seriously:

"By order of this official, in the name of the Governor's Office of Jiaozhou, find a better coffin."

"Give him a proper burial."

"Let's find a... quiet place."

The attendant beside him asked in a low voice:
"My lord, regarding this matter... should we report it to the court in detail?"

Jiang Wan watched as her men carefully retrieved Liu Yong's body, then pondered for a moment before saying:
"Although he has been deposed and reduced to a commoner, his bloodline ultimately originates from the imperial family."

"Since he died on the road of exile, according to regulations, it is still necessary to report to the court."

"Go and draft the document, and then say..."

"Liu Yong, the former King of Wu, contracted a serious illness due to the unfamiliar climate and water."

"He died during his exile after all medical treatment failed."

"The rest... need not be said."

He knew that some truths were better left unrevealed.

It would only increase the embarrassment and trouble for the royal family; it would be better to let it go with the wind.

"I understand."

He accepted the order and went to carry it out.

Jiang Wan remained alone, looking at the newly erected grave, which had not even had a tombstone inscribed on it.

He ordered someone to bring some incense, candles, and paper money.

He lit it himself, the leaping flames illuminating his solemn face.

The ashes of the paper drifted in the wind, like ownerless, lonely souls.

He stood before the grave, murmuring softly, as if speaking to the departed spirits:

"Your Highness... may you have a safe journey."

"This life is over, but I hope for the next..."

"Never again should you be born into an imperial family... Be an ordinary citizen..."

"Perhaps they can enjoy peace and joy, and live out their natural lifespan..."

The smoke curled upwards, mingling with the humid, hot winds of Lingnan.

It carries the unspoken感慨 of a high-ranking official and a touch of humanitarian compassion.

This also marked the tragic and desolate end of an era for a once illustrious prince.

(End of this chapter)