Crowned Consort in Golden Age-Chapter 360 - 359. Ren Qining falls into a trap, Northern Territory army turns against her

Chapter 360: 359. Ren Qining falls into a trap, Northern Territory army turns against her

359. Ren Qining Falls into a Trap, Northern Territory Army Turns Coat

"You’re Princess Consort Ding?!" A sharp voice rang from behind Consort Yun.

Everyone was taken aback. Though they were all secluded women, the title of Princess Consort Ding was not unfamiliar to them. How many times had their fathers and brothers at home sighed, wishing to have a daughter or a wife like Princess Consort Ding? Even their husband, Ren Qining, the ruler of the Northern Territory, had only words of praise for Princess Consort Ding every time he mentioned her. This made these sheltered women feel a blend of envy and jealousy.

Ye Li was not surprised at her identity being exposed. She just looked up at the woman behind Consort Yun; it turned out to be an acquaintance. Ye Li smiled faintly. "So, it’s Miss Murong. What brings you here?" With this, she essentially confirmed her identity.

"You’re Princess Consort Ding?" Consort Yun was stunned. She had seen Princess Consort Ding several times before. Although her appearance didn’t quite match the woman before her, that calm and graceful temperament which compelled others to look up to her was unmistakable. Who else could it be if not Princess Consort Ding?

"Princess Consort Ding, why are you here?" After a moment of shock, Consort Yun quickly recovered her senses and stared at Queen Helan, aghast. "It’s you... you’re colluding with the King of Ding Kingdom’s Mansion..."

Queen Helan retorted irritably, "Don’t make it sound so ugly. We of the Northern Territory are merely cooperating with Prince Ding’s Mansion to reclaim what is rightfully ours. What’s wrong with that? You people always claim to be the orthodox lineage of the Central Plains, yet you collude with the Beirong to attack the Central Plains. Don’t try to gild your actions with such high-sounding hypocrisy."

Although Consort Yun was not well-versed in political matters, she was no ignorant fool. She naturally understood that if Queen Helan cooperated with Prince Ding’s Mansion, their own fates would be dire. "Helan, the king has treated you well. Why would you collude with outsiders and plot rebellion? Don’t forget, the previous queen also died at the hands of Prince Ding’s Mansion."

Queen Helan sneered contemptuously. "Treated us well? Ren Qining probably wishes he could slaughter all of us from the Northern Territory as soon as possible so he can change the dynastic title and restore his own country, doesn’t he? As for my cousin, if Ren Qining hadn’t provoked Prince Ding’s Mansion, how would she have met such a tragic end? If I’m to settle this score, who else but Ren Qining should I seek?"

"You... you’re twisting words and forcing logic!" Consort Yun’s face flushed red with anger, but she was rendered speechless.

Queen Helan waved her hand dismissively. "I don’t bully women who know nothing. You may all go back and stay put. I won’t trouble you before Ren Qining returns. But if you disobey..." She let out a cold chuckle, a cruel chill curving her lips. "You can try me and see if I dare to kill."

Those present were delicate women, sheltered from the world, who hadn’t experienced much. They couldn’t withstand Queen Helan’s intimidation and began to consider retreating. Consort Yun fared no better; she bit her lip and glared fiercely at Queen Helan, preparing to turn and leave.

"Ye Li, prepare to die!" Beside Consort Yun, Murong Mingyan roared in fury. A cold glint flashed from her hand as she lunged towards Ye Li. However, a dark shadow swept past, and before Murong Mingyan could even touch Ye Li, she was sent flying by a palm strike, crashing into a nearby pillar and spewing a mouthful of blood.

Zhuo Jing stood before Ye Li, his voice low as he asked, "Princess Consort?" Zhuo Jing didn’t recognize Murong Mingyan, but the hatred in her eyes told him this woman must bear a deep grudge against Ye Li. He had been with Ye Li for nearly a decade but had never seen her make an enemy of this woman. However, after a brief thought, Zhuo Jing grasped her identity. "A remnant of the Murong family? Princess Consort, should this subordinate..." For such individuals, the shadow guards’ custom was to eradicate them completely.

Ye Li looked thoughtfully at Murong Mingyan, who glared as if she wanted to devour her. Murong Mingyan struggled to her feet, wiping the blood from her lips. "Ye Li, you’re actually still alive!"

Ye Li replied calmly, "Didn’t you already know I was alive, Miss Murong? As far as I recall, I haven’t done anything unforgivable to you. From where does such hatred stem?"

The hatred in Murong Mingyan’s eyes was palpable. "If it weren’t for you... if it weren’t for all of you, how would the Murong family have ended up like this? How would my grandfather have died? It’s all your fault!"

"How brazen to blame others when your own greed knows no bounds! If Murong Xiong hadn’t arrogantly tried to manipulate the martial world with his prowess, would the Murong family have met with disaster? It’s just a pity the Murong family’s honey trap wasn’t enticing enough. You tried to steal a chicken but ended up losing the rice used to lure it—that’s all," Zhuo Jing interjected sarcastically. Although he hadn’t gone to Xiling back then, he was aware of what had transpired. His mockery deliberately struck Murong Mingyan’s most painful nerve.

Murong Mingyan gritted her teeth, her eyes nearly red with fury, glaring at Zhuo Jing as if she wanted to tear him limb from limb.

Ye Li turned to Queen Helan. "Your Majesty, please ask the others to leave first. I have some matters to discuss with Miss Murong."

Queen Helan nodded and addressed Consort Yun and the others, "You may all leave. Zhaorong Ming, stay."

Consort Yun and the rest knew they couldn’t afford to offend Queen Helan now, so they promptly departed.

Murong Mingyan was left behind, but she showed no fear. When she had followed Ren Qining back to the Northern Territory years ago, he had promised to help her seek revenge. But as the years passed, her hope for vengeance had dwindled. If she hadn’t yet been conferred her title when Mo Xiuyao decimated Ren Qining’s harem, she might not even have her life. She had sacrificed herself and everything the Murong family owned, only to receive a middling position as Zhaorong; how could Murong Mingyan not harbor deep resentment? 𝚏𝗿𝗲𝐞𝚠𝕖𝐛𝗻𝗼𝐯𝕖𝚕.𝚌𝗼𝗺

"What do you want to say? Whether you want to kill me or torture me, do as you please." Murong Mingyan stared defiantly at Ye Li.

Ye Li smiled gently. "Miss Murong, there’s no need to be so tense. I won’t harm you." It had to be said, though Ye Li and Mo Xiuyao were almost equally famous, their reputations were worlds apart. Mo Xiuyao, despite the generations of prestige from Prince Ding’s Mansion, was infamous for his overwhelming killing intent. The mere mention of Prince Ding would inevitably conjure images of blood-soaked battlefields. In contrast, many people, even those who bore her ill will, tended to overlook the danger Ye Li, Princess Consort Ding, posed. Especially when face to face, her gentle and elegant demeanor, like that of a young lady from a prominent family, easily made people lower their guard.

Murong Mingyan scoffed lightly. Although she didn’t let down her guard, her expression softened inadvertently. Ye Li smiled. "Miss Murong, you should understand that the downfall of the Murong family was not the fault of Prince Ding’s Mansion. At that time, it was a matter of circumstance, and we had to act. Furthermore, you should be clear in your heart who plotted against the Murong family more than Prince Ding’s Mansion did."

Murong Mingyan fell silent. She knew very well what had transpired back then. If she hadn’t stubbornly insisted on provoking them... perhaps there would have been no conflict with Prince Ding’s Mansion. However, Murong Mingyan clung to the belief that Mo Xiuyao’s appearance had sealed the Murong family’s fate. Thus, her hatred for Prince Ding’s Mansion was, in her mind, a natural consequence.

"What do you want?" Murong Mingyan stared at Ye Li.

Ye Li offered a slight smile. "I want the remaining assets of the Murong family."

Murong Mingyan was taken aback. "I don’t know what you’re talking about. All of the Murong family’s assets are now in Ren Qining’s hands. Otherwise, how do you think he has financed such a drastic expansion of his army these past few years?"

Ye Li shook her head slowly. "Miss Murong, there’s no need to deceive me. I might not know the full extent of the Murong family’s wealth, but I know it’s substantial. Moreover, given Ren Qining’s character, if you didn’t have some leverage..." She didn’t finish her sentence, but everyone present understood her meaning. With Ren Qining’s personality, if Murong Mingyan had no further use to him, why would she still be in this palace? She would likely have been discarded somewhere long ago.

Murong Mingyan remained silent for a long moment before finally speaking, "The Murong family has nothing left but money. I don’t mind giving it to you, but what will I receive in return?" Murong Mingyan was well aware that since Ye Li had detained her, she wouldn’t be allowed to leave, regardless of whether she admitted anything or not.

"What does Miss Murong want?" Ye Li asked. Originally, Ye Li hadn’t given Murong Mingyan much thought, but now that they had encountered each other, she naturally didn’t intend to let this opportunity pass. These past few years, it wasn’t just the Northern Territory; Prince Ding’s Mansion had also been significantly expanding its military forces. Although Prince Ding’s Mansion was immensely wealthy, it still paled in comparison to the resources of an entire country. Naturally, the more money, the better.

Murong Mingyan’s expression shifted slightly. After a pause, she said suddenly, "I want to marry Young Master Qingchen."

Ye Li’s expression turned cold as she calmly declined, "No."

"Why?" Murong Mingyan asked in astonishment. She knew Prince Ding’s Mansion had been embroiled in continuous warfare these past few years, making financial resources all the more critical. She hadn’t expected Ye Li to refuse without even a moment’s consideration.

Ye Li said, "My elder brother has already rejected Miss Murong before. Even for the sake of Prince Ding’s Mansion, I cannot interfere in his marriage." If Murong Mingyan had proposed different terms, Ye Li might have considered deceiving her, even if the terms couldn’t be met. But when it concerned Xu Qingchen’s marriage, even deception was out of the question.

Murong Mingyan gritted her teeth and glared at her. "Aren’t you afraid that I’ll bury all that gold and treasure forever? If I don’t speak, no one in this world will ever find it. For years, the Southern Garrison Prince of Xiling must have scoured every corner of the Murong properties, right? But he found nothing!"

Ye Li shook her head and sighed softly. "As I’ve said, no matter for whom, I will not meddle in my elder brother’s marriage. If the wealth of the Murong family is indeed not destined for Prince Ding’s Mansion, then we can only let it be. Besides, if Prince Ding’s Mansion cannot obtain it, no one else will either, will they?" Her underlying meaning was clear: if Murong Mingyan did not intend to reveal the whereabouts of the Murong family’s remaining wealth, then she no longer needed to eke out an existence in this world. It wasn’t that Ye Li was heartless; if Murong Mingyan had been killed directly back then, Ren Qining might not have had so much money to frantically expand his army and attack Great Chu. And if a resentful Murong Mingyan fell into someone else’s hands, it would also be a problem for Prince Ding’s Mansion.

"Take her away," Ye Li told Zhuo Jing.

Zhuo Jing nodded, grabbed Murong Mingyan, and turned to leave.

At the side, Queen Helan cupped her chin, looking at Ye Li. "This Murong Mingyan really has some connections. Even you have designs on her?"

Ye Li gave a bitter smile. "The King of the Northern Territory truly has remarkable methods; there’s likely no one in his harem without some significant background."

"Then why didn’t you agree to her request?" Queen Helan asked, intrigued. She herself had condescended to marry Ren Qining for the sake of the Northern Territory, so she couldn’t comprehend why Ye Li would reject Murong Mingyan’s offer. Especially since Central Plains tradition allowed men multiple wives and concubines; even if he didn’t like one, he could always marry another. Young Master Qingchen certainly wouldn’t be at a disadvantage.

Ye Li replied calmly, "There are things one does, and things one refrains from doing. My elder brother toils tirelessly for Prince Ding’s Mansion and for me. If I were to manipulate his marriage for some gold and silver, would I still be human?"

Queen Helan shook her head, only partially understanding. "Anyway, I don’t understand the thinking of you Central Plains people. I’ll leave Murong Mingyan to you. She’s of no use to me. She has no family left; likely no one will come to rescue her."

"Thank you."

「」

Ren Qining had been extremely irritable these past few days. The news from the reinforcements he had dispatched was far from optimistic. The Northern Territory dignitaries and troops left behind in Changqing City were, as he had anticipated, merely standing by idly. The only slight consolation was Helan’s reply, indicating that the situation hadn’t reached its worst point yet. Although the rebel leader possessed remarkable military strategy, his foundations were shallow. If the people of the Northern Territory were willing to assist, it would be difficult even for Prince Ding’s Mansion to gain an advantage in the Northern Territory. However, this also meant that his plan to ally with Beirong to attack the Mo Family Army was on the verge of collapse.

Ren Qining felt little guilt about this. If a man doesn’t look out for himself, heaven and earth will conspire to destroy him. He couldn’t ignore the danger to his rear for the sake of Yelv Ye’s plan. If he did, even if he managed to inflict some losses and trouble upon the Mo Family Army, Yelv Ye would be the one to benefit, while he himself would suffer. He and Yelv Ye were merely allies, not truly family.

With this thought, a determined look flashed in Ren Qining’s eyes. He stood up and ordered, "Leave one division of the army to cover our retreat. The rest of you, follow me back to Changqing City to quell the rebellion."

"Yes, sir!" Ren Qining’s command brought a collective sigh of relief from many generals. If the king insisted on not retreating and their home territories were occupied, the losses would far outweigh any gains. A few Northern Territory generals also showed a hint of pleasure, but their seats were further back, so they went unnoticed. Even if they had been noticed, it would likely have been dismissed as them simply not wanting to fight. In this campaign, the once formidable and valiant Northern Jin soldiers had seemed somewhat passive and unmotivated. Nevertheless, they were still far stronger than the Central Plains soldiers, who were newly recruited and had little combat experience. Ren Qining, despite his anger, couldn’t afford to dispense with them at this critical juncture and could only endure it.

While preparing to withdraw his forces, Ren Qining wrote another letter to Queen Helan, listing numerous benefits for the Northern Territory elites. Queen Helan was straightforward and promptly replied, agreeing to his request. After all, as Princess Consort Ding had said, deceiving people costs nothing!

「Atop Zijing Pass」

Leng Huai and Leng Haoyu stood shoulder to shoulder, watching the Northern Territory’s main army gradually retreat. Leng Haoyu chuckled, "It seems the Princess Consort’s plan has succeeded."

A faint smile appeared on Leng Huai’s weary yet dignified face. He nodded. "Indeed. We should also prepare to receive Princess Consort Ding. It is said that the Princess Consort’s intelligence, strategy, and courage are in no way inferior to those of a man. I didn’t believe it at first, but now... It’s more than just not being inferior; I’m afraid there are few men in this world more capable than Princess Consort Ding."

Leng Haoyu nodded and laughed. "Isn’t that the truth? The Princess Consort always manages to surprise us in unexpected ways, yet her actions always seem perfectly reasonable. Father, we should prepare to advance beyond the pass. In the past, it was always Ren Qining attacking Zijing Pass; this time, it’s our turn to sally forth and chase him."

"Exactly. Qingyu’s revenge must be taken." Despite his younger son being more exceptional, Leng Qingyu was still the beloved son he had cherished and valued for decades. Moreover, he had died for his country without disgracing the Leng Family. Being able to personally avenge his beloved son would be a great relief for Leng Huai, settling a long-held burden in his heart.

Leng Haoyu nodded. "Father is right. You can definitely avenge Big Brother personally." Although there was discord between him and Leng Qingyu when the latter was alive, Leng Haoyu wouldn’t harbor hatred for his brother who had fought and died valiantly. It was a good thing for his father to be able to personally avenge his elder brother and settle this burden on his heart. It was for this very reason that he had personally requested the Prince and Princess Consort to allow Leng Huai to continue defending Zijing Pass—all for this day.

「In the "rebel" camp outside Changqing City」

He Su sat leisurely in the commander’s main seat within the tent, watching the generals below argue incessantly. They were clearly unsettled by the news of Ren Qining’s returning army. With only about three hundred thousand troops, they were outnumbered. Although they had won several victories under He Su’s command, once Ren Qining’s million-strong army returned, no sophisticated tactics would be needed; sheer numbers could crush them.

When their arguments had mostly subsided, He Su tapped the table and said with a faint smile, "Gentlemen, is there any use in arguing about this now? After fighting so many battles, do you think the imperial court will spare us if we stop now? If we fight with all our might, we still have a chance to win wealth, honor, and a bright future. But if we surrender now, it’s a crime punishable by the extermination of our entire families."

The generals looked at He Su, their faces grim. "Brother He, tell us honestly, does Prince Ding’s Mansion really have reinforcements? We’ve risked our lives following you; you can’t lead us into a dead end."

"Exactly, exactly..." The crowd nodded in agreement.

He Su laughed. "Reinforcements are certainly on their way, but... they need a little more time to arrive. However, there’s no need to worry. Even though the main reinforcements haven’t arrived, powerful support from Prince Ding’s Mansion is already here."

The crowd paused in surprise, exchanging bewildered glances before someone ventured, "Could it be Young Master Qingchen? We’ve heard that Young Master Qingchen’s strategic genius is unparalleled, that he alone is worth thousands of soldiers."

"It must be Prince Ding! Prince Ding has been undefeated on the battlefield since he was fourteen. If Prince Ding is here, what do we have to fear from the court’s million-strong army?"

With a smile, He Su looked towards the entrance of the large tent. The curtain was pulled open from the outside, and a woman with delicate, graceful features, dressed in cyan with her black hair neatly arranged, walked in. Several men in black followed her, clearly her guards. Upon seeing the Qilin pattern on the guards’ uniforms, the assembled generals gasped, "Qilin!?"

The black-clad guards paid no attention to their astonishment, dispersing to various corners of the large tent, while two remained behind the woman in cyan. Under everyone’s astonished gaze, the woman in the cyan gown walked to the commander’s main seat, which He Su had vacated, and sat down. She offered a faint smile to the assembly. "Gentlemen, you’ve worked hard."

Seeing He Su’s respectful demeanor towards the woman in cyan, a few of the more astute individuals felt a stir of realization. The more impulsive ones, however, couldn’t hold back. "Who are you? How dare you sit there?"

The woman in cyan responded with a light smile, "I am Ye Li."

Princess Consort Ding?! Everyone present was utterly stunned.

"This subordinate greets the Princess Consort," He Su said respectfully, bowing. With someone taking the lead, the others naturally followed suit. Everyone in the large tent bowed in unison, declaring, "We greet Princess Consort Ding!" At least, they had heard that Prince Ding held deep affection for the Princess Consort. With Princess Consort Ding here, surely Prince Ding’s Mansion wouldn’t stand by and watch them be slaughtered by the imperial court?

Ye Li nodded. "Everyone, please rise. Be seated." Only then did they all stand and take their seats in order.

Once everyone was seated, Ye Li spoke, "Thank you all for your willingness to assist Prince Ding’s Mansion in recapturing this area. While the Prince couldn’t be here due to the war with Beirong, my words hold the same promise as his. Everyone present, once matters are settled, there will be ample rewards. Prince Ding’s Mansion will never treat its meritorious subjects unfairly."

A middle-aged general with a somewhat simple and honest appearance stood up. "Princess Consort, this subordinate doesn’t care much about rewards. We were originally officers of Great Chu but were compelled to aid a tyrant in attacking the Capital of Great Chu. This matter..." Most of those present were former generals of Great Chu who had surrendered. They had not been well-treated or valued by Ren Qining in the Northern Territory. Having originally surrendered Great Chu to the Northern Territory, and now betraying the Northern Territory to rejoin Prince Ding’s Mansion, they naturally harbored some anxieties. That this middle-aged general could voice such a question showed he was not as simple as he looked.

Ye Li spoke solemnly, "Wherever the Northern Territory’s army went, they did not bring harm to ordinary civilians. I can promise all of you here that as long as you genuinely pledge allegiance to Prince Ding’s Mansion, past deeds will be forgiven. Those who render meritorious service will still be generously rewarded. But... if anyone harbors duplicity, do not blame my sword for being merciless."

"We thank the Princess Consort!" everyone stood up and said. These defecting generals had been most worried about being dealt with after matters settled. Now, having received Princess Consort Ding’s personal assurance, their minds were naturally set at ease. The atmosphere in the large tent warmed considerably in an instant.

Below, He Su cupped his hands. "Reporting to the Princess Consort, Ren Qining is leading a million-strong army towards Changqing City. Should we enter Changqing City and defend it while awaiting reinforcements from Zijing Pass?"

Ye Li shook her head with a smile. "No need. He Su, listen to my command. Immediately lead your men out of the camp to challenge the enemy. You must win three more engagements before Ren Qining’s main army arrives, and drive the enemy forces thirty li away."

Although He Su didn’t understand Ye Li’s intentions, he knew the Princess Consort had her own profound strategies and would not act without purpose. He rose smartly. "This subordinate obeys!"

「」

After receiving Queen Helan’s reply, Ren Qining raced back to Changqing City. As he neared Changqing, he received battle reports from the front: despite having superior numbers, his forces had suffered three consecutive defeats and been pushed back several tens of li. Only the fifty thousand Northern Territory troops stationed in the Capital City had managed to barely hold the line, preventing even greater losses.

Ren Qining knew the poor quality of the forces under his command. He decided to lead over two hundred thousand Northern Territory troops to join the tens of thousands stationed in the capital. Together, they would attack the rebel army, intending to reclaim the Royal City of Changqing at all costs. However, this was exactly what Ye Li and Queen Helan had schemed. After nearly three hundred thousand of Ren Qining’s troops had assembled, not only did they fail to annihilate the rebels, but disaster struck. When Ren Qining’s Northern Territory contingent saw a flag signal—one utterly incomprehensible to the Central Plains soldiers—they suddenly turned and attacked their own allies, throwing Ren Qining’s army into disarray.

In that instant, what was there left for Ren Qining not to understand? He was so enraged his eyes felt like they would split, and a mouthful of hot blood spurted out. Ren Qining, who had been on horseback, swayed and tumbled to the ground. If his personal guards hadn’t swiftly rescued him, he would likely have been trampled to death by the chaotic soldiery, even if the enemy hadn’t killed him.

"Why?!" Seeing Queen Helan, clad in vibrant attire and looking radiant, appear before the army, Ren Qining demanded harshly. He couldn’t believe he had been played by a woman he had never taken seriously.

Queen Helan spurred her horse forward, her pretty face filled with disdain. "Why? For the lives of my Northern Territory men, of course, and to avenge my cousin and uncle! Ren Qining, who do you think you are? After using the people of my Northern Territory, you thought you could just walk away unscathed? Since you first appeared in the Northern Territory, how many of our men have died needlessly on the battlefield? Now, fewer than three hundred thousand remain. Do you intend to squander them all and drive the Northern Territory to extinction?"

The Northern Territory forces that had crossed into the Central Plains numbered over seven hundred thousand. The Northern Territory’s population was not large to begin with; these seven hundred thousand soldiers constituted ninety percent of its able-bodied young and middle-aged men. Now, over half of them were dead. If Ren Qining were to squander the remaining nearly three hundred thousand soldiers... even if he unified the world, what good would it do the Northern Territory? Only extinction would await them. Even now, restoring their former population and military strength would likely take several decades.

"Helan!" Ren Qining gritted his teeth.

Queen Helan giggled, flourishing the whip in her hand and pointing it at Ren Qining with a smile. "This young lady is taking her Northern Territory boys home! If you want to blame someone, blame Princess Consort Ding. This was all her idea, you know! Sound the horns! Withdraw!"

The ancient, rustic sound of the Northern Territory’s animal-horn bugles echoed across the battlefield. The Northern Territory army began to gradually disengage and retreat towards the northeast. From a distance, Helan gazed at Ren Qining with unconcealed triumph, a provocative glint in her eyes. "Do you dare pursue?"

Ren Qining gritted his teeth, his lips pressed so tightly that more blood oozed from the corners. He could only watch, helpless, as Queen Helan departed, laughing heartily.

"Retreat! Return to camp!"

"Yes, Your Majesty."

"SPURT—!" Another mouthful of fresh blood erupted, and Ren Qining finally collapsed, losing consciousness.

「」

Ren Qining was rushed back to the main camp. It took more than an hour for him to regain consciousness. The generals waiting in the tent hurried forward to check on him. "Your Majesty! Your Majesty, how are you?"

"Helan, you wretch! I swear I will tear you limb from limb!" Ren Qining proclaimed, his voice laced with hatred.

The generals looked at each other in dismay. In the chaos of the battle, the Northern Territory tribal soldiers had suddenly turned; many hadn’t even had time to understand what was happening. Ren Qining gritted his teeth. "That wretched Helan has been colluding with Prince Ding’s Mansion all along! She was just waiting for me to withdraw my main army so she could consolidate all the Northern Territory troops."

"This... Your Majesty, if the Northern Territory forces truly turn against us, what should we do?" Prince Ding’s Mansion already exerted immense pressure. If the Northern Territory army also turned coat... No one knew better than these generals how formidable the people of the Northern Territory were. For the past two years, if they hadn’t consistently used Northern Territory troops as the vanguard, their own newly assembled army of a million would never have been able to push Great Chu to such a desperate state.

Ren Qining sat up. His mind, oppressed by countless worries these past days, felt surprisingly clearer after coughing up blood on the battlefield. He sneered. "If Helan dares to scheme against me, she’s no fool. She won’t throw her remaining force of less than three hundred thousand into the fray between my army and Prince Ding’s Mansion. She knows that if she does, not a single one of her Northern Territory soldiers will make it back. In a few days, she’ll leave on her own." At the mention of Helan, an undeniable hatred flared in Ren Qining’s eyes. He had risen to power relying on Helan’s cousin, his former wife, only to be brought down by that former wife’s younger cousin, his current wife.

"Send men to thoroughly investigate who from Prince Ding’s Mansion is masterminding this. Anyone capable of such methods and of collaborating with the Northern Territory is no ordinary soldier or junior commander," Ren Qining instructed. "Our existing spies can no longer be trusted; they’ve likely been compromised. Deploy new agents."

"Yes." A subordinate acknowledged the order with a bow and departed.

"Your Majesty, who do you suspect is behind this?" a trusted aide by the bedside asked cautiously.

Ren Qining said coldly, "Only a few in Prince Ding’s Mansion possess such capabilities. Xu Hong Yu and Xu Hongyan rarely leave the Northwest, and Mo Xiuyao is currently engaged in battle with Beirong. This time, it’s either Xu Qingchen or Ye Li!" After a moment’s thought, Ren Qining stated decisively, "It must be Ye Li! She was the one who interacted frequently with that wretch Helan when we were in Licheng." Ren Qining now regretted it so much he could have kicked himself. He had utterly failed to be wary of that wretch Helan back then, even taking her to Licheng and allowing her to reach an agreement with Prince Ding’s Mansion right under his nose. Unfortunately, it was too late for regrets now.

"Your Majesty, about Queen Helan..."

"Kill her! At any cost, we cannot allow that wretch to return to the Northern Territory alive!" Ren Qining’s expression was ferocious, and his chilling voice made everyone in the large tent shiver involuntarily.

After dismissing everyone, silence returned to the large tent. Ren Qining, somewhat exhausted, leaned against his bed, closing his eyes to rest. However, his facial muscles twitched intermittently, his expression contorting with a terrifying, murderous aura. Mo Xiuyao! Ye Li! How dare you scheme against me like this? I will make you wish you were dead!

「While Ren Qining’s large tent was filled with thunderous rage」

In contrast, Prince Ding’s Mansion’s encampment was alive with laughter and joyous celebration. Although the tribal leaders of the Northern Territory and the former officials of the old dynasty might have wished for each other’s destruction, the common soldiers did not harbor such deep-seated grudges. When Ren Qining had initially entered the passes, he had, for the sake of his future rule, restrained his soldiers from wantonly slaughtering innocents. Thus, there was no profound animosity between his troops and the common populace. Over the past two years, the Central Plains soldiers had witnessed the Northern Territory soldiers consistently charging at the forefront of every battle, their exceptional bravery earning great admiration. Now that these Northern Territory warriors had, like themselves, rebelled against Ren Qining, they were all on the same side. Naturally, any remaining animosity faded.

Throughout the encampment, apart from the soldiers on routine patrol and guard duty, everyone—whether from the Central Plains or the Northern Territory—sat together, drinking, eating, singing, and dancing. The festivities were even more exuberant than after a major victory. The people of the Northern Territory, having no desire to be further embroiled in the conflicts of the Central Plains, were long eager to return home. Tonight’s revelry was, in essence, a farewell banquet hosted by Ye Li and Prince Ding’s Mansion for the various Northern Territory tribes.

In the open-air encampment, Ye Li, accompanied by members of Prince Ding’s Mansion and the Central Plains generals recently won over from the Northern Territory, sat alongside Queen Helan’s father, now the leader of the Northern Territory, sharing fine wine. The people of the Northern Territory observed that this seemingly delicate Princess Consort Ding, though not a heavy drinker, was remarkably decisive and straightforward in her actions—unlike Ren Qining’s former subordinates, who often hid daggers behind their smiles and were full of cunning schemes. Furthermore, hearing that the safe withdrawal of so many of their Northern Territory brethren from the battlefield was entirely due to Princess Consort Ding’s efforts, their fondness for this Central Plains princess consort grew considerably.

The only women present were Queen Helan and Ye Li. Queen Helan, instead of sitting with her own contingent, had come over to join Ye Li and the lively atmosphere around her. Now, with the Northern Territory people on the verge of returning home, Queen Helan’s pretty face radiated a playful and relaxed ease. She was more at ease than before, truly resembling a carefree girl of sixteen or seventeen, rather than the Queen of the Northern Territory who bore the weight of her entire people’s survival and had been forced to feign arrogance.

"Princess Consort Ding, we owe you immense gratitude for enabling our safe withdrawal beyond the passes and our return to our homeland. Here, Helan toasts you!" Queen Helan raised a wine bowl, smiling at Ye Li.

Ye Li raised her wine cup with a smile. "My tolerance for alcohol is poor, but I will drink this cup. Allow me to empty mine first as a sign of respect." Tilting her head back, she drained the cup in one gulp. The ordinary strong liquor sent a fiery sensation through her, and a delicate crimson flush spread across her jade-like, beautiful face.

Queen Helan shrugged and downed her own drink in one go. "You’re very straightforward, which greatly appeals to us Northern Territory folk. It’s just that your capacity for alcohol is a tad too small."

"Queen Helan..." Ye Li smiled wryly. Her own alcohol tolerance was actually quite good among women, but compared to a Northern Territory woman like Queen Helan, who had practically grown up drinking strong liquor, it was indeed somewhat lacking.

Queen Helan glared at her. "I’m no longer any queen! Who the devil wants to be a blasted queen? In the future, this young lady intends to be the greatest female chieftain of the Northern Territory!" Although the Northern Territory was considered a barbaric land, they did not place much importance on gender distinctions, much less favor men over women. Throughout history, various tribes had seen several female chieftains who were no less capable than men. Queen Helan’s father, the current leader of the Northern Territory, had only her as a daughter, and given the great service she had just rendered to her people, she was the natural and rightful successor.

Ye Li laughed. "Alright, alright, my mistake. Princess Helan?"

Helan pouted and stared at Ye Li for a moment before nodding in satisfaction. "That’s more like it." With that, she turned and, already showing signs of intoxication, pulled He Su, Qin Feng, and others into a round of drinking.

Not far from Ye Li, on the other side, Helan’s father had evidently heard his daughter’s words. He raised his wine bowl towards Ye Li with a helpless smile. "I’ve spoiled Helan. Princess Consort, please don’t mind her."

"It’s no matter. Princess Helan is intelligent and astute; the Clan Chief is fortunate to have such a daughter." Although Ye Li had not met this temporarily appointed Clan Chief of the Northern Territory tribe many times, she thought that anyone capable of raising a daughter like Helan was surely not an ordinary, crude-tempered barbarian. Ren Qining’s biggest mistake was likely underestimating these Northern Territory "barbarians." If the people of the Northern Territory could help him establish a kingdom, they could just as easily bring about his downfall.

The Clan Chief doted on his daughter Helan immensely. Hearing Ye Li’s praise, he was naturally overjoyed. After a hearty laugh, he downed several more bowls of wine in succession.

Men in the army invariably love their drink. Seeing the Northern Territory Clan Chief so hearty, everyone present grew boisterous, and the atmosphere in the military camp became even livelier.

"Princess Consort Ding, we have long heard that the Mo Family Army is valiant and skilled in combat, each warrior exceptionally capable. We would like to have a friendly spar with our brothers from the Mo Family Army. We request the Princess Consort’s permission!" A young man among the Northern Territory generals present stood up and declared loudly.

Hearing this, the others’ eyes lit up. The Mo Family Army had been renowned for its bravery and combat prowess for two hundred years, rarely tasting defeat. While perhaps not the single most valiant army in the world, they were certainly one that had maintained its formidable strength over an exceptionally long period. Many historically famous, battle-hardened forces were formidable in their early days, but after their peak, often declined into mediocrity due to their leaders’ complacency, indulgence in luxury, or other reasons. However, an army like the Mo Family Army—still a dominant force after more than two hundred years, capable of sweeping across the land even after enduring relentless suppression by successive monarchs of Great Chu—was truly unheard of.

The men of the Northern Territory were martial and loved a good contest. With Mo Family Army generals present, they naturally didn’t want to miss this chance to spar and exchange pointers.

Ye Li felt somewhat troubled. Of all the people from Prince Ding’s Mansion present, only Qin Feng and He Su had experience leading troops. But for either of them to personally fight these Northern Territory men would be unfair. They were either from the shadow guards or the Black Cloud Cavalry and had all undergone the Qilin’s hellish training. In terms of individual combat prowess, they could likely defeat any Northern Territory general present in an instant.

As soon as she heard there would be a fight, Princess Helan’s eyes instantly lit up. She ran to Ye Li and laughed. "Princess Consort Ding, please agree! I also want to see just how formidable the generals of your Prince Ding’s Mansion are."

Ye Li smiled helplessly at her, but Princess Helan paid her no mind. She unfastened the soft whip from her waist and pointed it at He Su. "Are you a general of the Mo Family Army? This Princess has come to experience your masterful skills!"

He Su was stunned. Everyone in Prince Ding’s Mansion had a rather peculiar quirk: thanks to Ye Li, they never underestimated women, but they also believed that no other woman in the world could compare to Ye Li. If he were to fight Princess Helan, regardless of whether he won or lost, he would probably be laughed to death by those unscrupulous fellows back in the Mansion.

"Princess Helan, this..."

Princess Helan lifted her chin. "This what? I’m challenging you openly and honorably. Are you looking down on me?"

He Su glanced at Ye Li, who was seated at the head table. He saw her looking calm and deep in thought, seemingly oblivious to his pleading gaze. He chuckled bitterly, realizing the Princess Consort had no intention of helping him out of this predicament.

Beside him, Zhuo Jing, Lin Han, Qin Feng, and the others all cast him looks that seemed to say, "You’re on your own, may fortune favor you." This Princess of the Northern Territory was not to be trifled with. Winning would be seen as bullying a woman; losing would mean he was inferior even to a woman.

"In that case, Princess, please." He Su stood up and bowed.