Soon after Li Mu arrived, Prince Xin’an was also invited by Gao Qiao to join their deliberations.

Gao Qiao no longer showed the carefree manner of that night when he had drunk half-drunk and enthusiastically forced Li Mu to watch him write with his sword on the wall. His face was ashen, his gaze melancholy, deep wrinkles carved between his brows like the character “川,” his expression bearing deep worry.

As Li Mu read through the various battle reports, Xiao Daocheng said: “His Majesty has more than once confided to me that he feels fortunate to have Lord Gao as such a capable minister to assist in governing the realm. He wished to emulate the ancient sages, combining literary and martial prowess to correct the weak and powerless state our Great Yu has been in since crossing south. He had placed great hopes on this Northern Expedition, never expecting such an outcome! Before I came, His Majesty’s eyes still contained tears as he asked me to convey his message to Lord Gao. His Majesty and the Empress know that Lord Gao has exhausted himself mentally and physically over this matter, unable to find peace. His Majesty and the Empress only regret they cannot help more, and hope Lord Gao will not worry excessively—everything should prioritize his health.”

Gao Qiao rose and bowed toward the north where the palace lay: “These matters are all my duty. I only hope we can still salvage the situation—that would be fortunate for Great Yu and the court.”

Xiao Daocheng’s face showed indignation: “Lord Gao speaks truly! It is precisely because of profit-seeking villains like Xu Mi in high positions, using cunning to pursue advantage, that the court repeatedly suffers harm. His Majesty is also powerless. In the past, the previous Lord also faced many constraints, achieving success only to see it fail at the last moment, the Northern Expedition failing. Now history repeats itself—all the people mourn! If this continues, I fear our nation will cease to be a nation, our Nanchao as precarious as stacked eggs!”

Gao Qiao frowned deeply and looked at Li Mu, who had put down the battle reports but remained silent: “You had already left the capital, yet I summoned you back. The situation is truly urgent, concerning the lives of tens of thousands of Nanchao sons. You’ve had a hard journey.”

Li Mu respectfully replied: “Father-in-law speaks too seriously. Wherever I can be of use, I will spare no effort.”

Xiao Daocheng quickly glanced at him.

Gao Qiao’s expression showed gratification as he nodded: “You’ve also seen the reports that arrived the day before yesterday. If my estimates are correct, the grain supplies in the city should last more than half a month. I summoned you back to discuss strategies on how to rescue these tens of thousands of Great Yu soldiers.”

“Share any thoughts you have freely.”

Li Mu pondered for a moment.

“Father-in-law, Yan City is deep in the Yuzhou heartland and heavily surrounded by Beixia forces—like an isolated boat in a vast ocean. Direct rescue would be nearly impossible unless father-in-law could raise hundreds of thousands more troops to fight a decisive battle against Beixia and carve out a rescue route. But exchanging more soldiers’ lives for those tens of thousands in the city is unacceptable.”

“Better to help them save themselves than to save them directly. The city still has tens of thousands of troops capable of fighting. What we can do now is draw away the Beixia army, reduce the besieging forces, create an opportunity for those in the city to break out themselves. We can then provide support—this would be a feasible strategy.”

Gao Qiao nodded continuously: “Exactly what you say. I’ve been thinking the same. I’ve been pondering strategies these past days. There’s one method that might be worth discussing.”

“I plan to deploy two routes for joint rescue.”

“The Guangling army recently defeated the Qingzhou forces and killed their general. Though they couldn’t completely annihilate them, the Qingzhou forces’ morale is greatly reduced and they’re withdrawing defensively. The Guangling army can take the initiative to attack Xuzhou and Qingzhou—this would be the eastern route.”

He looked at Li Mu: “The other route would require you. I know you only recently took Chang’an, Longxi is still in barbarian hands, and the situation is unstable—this is indeed asking much of you. Could you find a way to deploy part of your forces to strike west at Tongguan, making a feint at Hulao City? If these two places are threatened, Luoyang would be in danger, and Beixia would have to deploy troops to defend the passes at all costs…”

Xiao Daocheng had been listening intently. Hearing this, he interjected: “Lord Gao, may I say something?”

Gao Qiao paused.

Xiao Daocheng said: “As Lord Gao just mentioned, most of Longxi is still in barbarian hands. The barbarians covet Chang’an and could return at any time. General Li recaptured Chang’an for our Great Yu—the whole nation rejoiced. Chang’an is like a beacon in people’s hearts and absolutely cannot be lost again. If we endanger Chang’an to save the Lu family’s son and those troops, I disagree! In my view, we should find another way. General Li’s primary task now should be ensuring Chang’an remains secure, not risking a rescue mission.”

Gao Qiao paused and looked at Li Mu.

“Jingchen, Prince Xin’an’s words also have merit. I indeed share this concern. That’s why I said we were just discussing strategies. If you have any difficulties, speak freely. Though I’m eager to save lives, I know what’s important and what’s secondary.”

Four pairs of eyes focused on Li Mu.

Li Mu said: “Father-in-law, rest assured. Since Chang’an is in hand, I absolutely won’t let it change masters again. This method is feasible.”

Gao Qiao breathed a sigh of relief: “With your assurance, I’m at ease.”

Xiao Daocheng lowered his eyes slightly, then showed a relieved expression, smiling: “I was overthinking. Since Jingchen, as Governor of Chang’an, speaks thus, what more concerns could I have? Eastern and western forces attacking Beixia simultaneously—let’s see how they can continue clinging to Yan City! We’ll just wait for good news!”

Li Mu smiled and looked at Gao Qiao: “Father-in-law, there’s another force that might be worth trying.”

Gao Qiao looked puzzled: “What other forces does our Great Yu have available?”

Xiao Daocheng was also confused, staring at Li Mu.

“The reason Xu Mi’s military prefecture enjoys its current solid position, having repeatedly repelled invading northern forces and defended Jingzhou, is primarily due to Yang Xuan’s achievements. If he’s willing to coordinate with father-in-law in military operations, a three-pronged approach would offer greater assurance.”

Gao Qiao frowned slightly and sighed: “Though he has the makings of a fine general, he takes orders from Xu Mi. How could Xu Mi possibly allow him to deploy troops for a joint rescue?”

“I previously served under him and know him well. This retreat to Nanyang and concealment of information was certainly not his wish. Not everyone in Xu Mi’s military prefecture obeys Xu Mi—many soldiers loyally follow Yang Xuan. I’m willing to meet with him and give it a try. For safety’s sake, I’d like father-in-law to write a letter that I can take with me.”

Gao Qiao immediately said: “Good! I’ll write the letter right now for you to deliver.”

He pondered briefly, then added: “Also tell him that if Xu Mi won’t tolerate him because of this, he should feel free to come to me. I would welcome him with open arms. As long as he’s willing to come, I’ll treat him with high position—I absolutely won’t go back on my word!”

Li Mu smiled: “Excellent. Let me thank Lord Gao on General Yang’s behalf.”

Gao Qiao’s face finally showed the first smile in many days. He rubbed his forehead and looked at Li Mu: “Jingchen, this is hard on you. If this rescue succeeds, you’ll deserve the greatest credit.”

Li Mu replied: “I’m just contributing what little I can—I dare not claim credit.”

Gao Qiao then looked at Xiao Daocheng: “I know His Majesty is extremely concerned about this matter. Military affairs are urgent, and I still have many matters to arrange tonight, so it’s inconvenient to enter the palace. Since things are decided, I’ll trouble Prince Xin’an to return and report to His Majesty again on my behalf.”

Xiao Daocheng beamed with smiles.

“Good, good! I’ll enter the palace immediately to put His Majesty at ease. That our Great Yu has such a father-in-law and son-in-law pair is truly His Majesty’s blessing and the people’s fortune! I’ll just wait for the good news.” He rose and took his leave.

Gao Qiao wanted to see him out, but Xiao Daocheng repeatedly declined. Remembering the many complex affairs still requiring his attention tonight, Gao Qiao didn’t insist, only escorting him to the study door and having Li Mu see him out on his behalf.

Xiao Daocheng didn’t refuse further and was escorted out by Li Mu. They conversed warmly along the way. Upon reaching the main gate, before boarding his carriage, he glanced back at Gao Qi and other servants waiting by the Gao family gate, secretly tugged Li Mu’s sleeve, and indicated he should follow him.

Walking to a darker corner some distance away, he dropped his earlier smile, his expression serious, and said in a low voice: “Governor Li, there’s something I didn’t dare say in front of Lord Gao. I’m telling you this as a brother, as family.”

“You should still remember when Lu Guang accused you at the Censorate some time ago? Afterwards, the more I thought about it, the more something seemed wrong. Seeing that servant’s words and actions, I suspected the Lu family had other secrets, so I secretly had people infiltrate the Lu residence to investigate. We happened to encounter Lu Guang beating the servant to death, which allowed me to learn the truth of that night. Last March, when Lu Jianzhi was far away in Jiaozhou, long ill and in difficulties, your wife merely wrote a musical score out of youthful sentiment and at someone’s request to encourage him, yet it was maliciously used by the Lu family’s second son to slander and attempt to spread rumors. If you hadn’t been sharp enough to notice that night, who knows how things would have ended.”

“Learning this, I broke out in a cold sweat for you. I won’t hide it—encountering tonight’s situation makes me feel even more indignant on your behalf. Ever since you defeated Lu Jianzhi in that Double Ninth competition, the Lu family has harbored bone-deep hatred toward you. This time their maliciousness has reached shocking depths. Now that the Lu family is in trouble, Lord Gao is working hard to rescue them out of consideration for family relationships between the Gao and Lu clans. He especially values that Lu Jianzhi. Before your Double Ninth victory, Lu Jianzhi was already regarded as his son-in-law. I still vividly remember that day’s examination questions—every one showed favoritism toward young master Lu. Now that he’s trapped in the siege, how could Lord Gao not be anxious?”

“But Governor Li, you’re different.”

“How can one repay virtue with virtue if one repays enmity with virtue? Even the ancient sages said: repay enmity with justice, repay virtue with virtue!”

“I spoke frankly even in Lord Gao’s presence earlier. The situation in Longxi is unclear. If you really divide your forces for rescue, it’s tantamount to endangering Chang’an and putting yourself at risk! Have you considered that if Chang’an is lost, it’s merely losing one city, but what of your lifetime reputation, Li Mu? Where would you go from there? Not to mention, if the rescue fails and Chang’an is also lost, those in court won’t dare criticize Lord Gao, but they’ll only point their fingers at you, a general from humble origins!”

He looked at Li Mu with sincere expression.

“Governor Li, you come from humble origins, unlike those from aristocratic families who have clans to rely on. Lord Gao treats you warmly, naturally. But I’m not sowing discord—as a leader of aristocratic families, when he considers matters, he thinks more of aristocratic interests than of you. This rescue mission is a perfect example. With the current court in chaos, the political situation treacherous, and people’s hearts unpredictable, His Majesty and the Empress truly appreciate General Li, as do I.”

“It wasn’t convenient to ask earlier. Here, let me ask General Li once more: if you follow Lord Gao’s instructions and fully commit to rescuing the Lu forces, what is your purpose?”

Li Mu was silent for a moment, then said: “I wonder if Prince Xin’an noticed that when Lord Gao spoke of rescue earlier, he never once mentioned the Lu name, but spoke of Nanchao sons and Great Yu soldiers.”

Xiao Daocheng was startled.

Li Mu looked at him with an expression that seemed half-smiling.

“People naturally have selfish motives, and I’m no different—I detest the Lu family. But for Lord Gao’s sake, to prevent those tens of thousands of Nanchao sons bearing the Lu name from dying needlessly under barbarian hooves due to internal strife, despite my inadequacy, I can only make this attempt.”

“Prince Xin’an’s earlier words weren’t without reason. I appreciate your good intentions.”

Xiao Daocheng’s smile froze, then quickly changed to magnanimity: “A righteous heart makes clear eyes! Exactly! Who doesn’t have parents, who doesn’t have a wife? This rescue has nothing to do with aristocratic families or personal preferences—it’s to save those tens of thousands of Great Yu men, Nanchao sons! I was only concerned for you and being cautious, which is why I said so much—absolutely no ill intent. His Majesty and the Empress, knowing Governor Li has such breadth of mind, will surely be even more gratified!”

Li Mu smiled and cupped his hands: “Prince Xin’an flatters me—I dare not accept such praise.”

Xiao Daocheng laughed it off, said a few more pleasantries, then smiled as he emerged from the dark corner. After repeatedly bidding farewell to Li Mu, he finally boarded his carriage and departed with the sound of wheels.

The ox cart traveled straight for some distance. Just as it was about to turn the street corner, he turned back to look at the now-closed gate behind him, his smile gradually fading.

He turned back and ordered the driver to go straight to the palace, entering through a side gate. He had someone announce that he had urgent matters and requested audience with the Emperor.

He was led into that deep palace hall where Gao Yongrong sat waiting in the deep night, asking him: “What did Uncle say when he summoned you?”

Xiao Daocheng recounted the entire process.

“I previously underestimated him, thinking he was just a mere warrior. Tonight it seems this man is truly unfathomable—not someone the Empress can use long-term. I don’t believe he’s genuinely willing to be driven by Gao Qiao with some heart to save Great Yu soldiers and Nanchao sons!”

Gao Yongrong sneered: “If he were truly the mere warrior you imagine, how could he have married my younger sister originally?”

“Now he has troops, controls Chang’an, has accumulated merits, and in markets and fields, everyone knows his name when mentioned. But his humble origins remain his greatest weakness. Among the aristocracy, he’s still criticized for his background. He just wants to use this opportunity to gain more fame. Rescuing the Lu family from peril—this is an excellent chance to establish authority among the aristocracy, more face-slapping to those aristocrats than capturing ten Chang’ans. Tell me, would he easily pass up such a good opportunity?”

Xiao Daocheng struck his palm with his fist, suddenly understanding: “You’re absolutely right! If he saves the Lu family, which aristocrat could hold their head high before him in future? Seeking fame and fishing for reputation aside, his intentions are even more deep and unfathomable.”

He suddenly remembered something and frowned: “This is an excellent opportunity to completely eliminate the Lu family—we can’t let it be ruined. Li Mu intends to persuade Yang Xuan to jointly deploy troops. Should I think of a way to hint to Xu Mi somehow, telling him to guard against this early? Otherwise, if they really succeed in their scheme…”

Gao Yongrong’s brows slightly furrowed as she pondered, then shook her head: “No need.”

Xiao Daocheng looked at her uncomprehendingly.

Gao Yongrong said: “How can people lack self-interest? Yang Xuan to Xu Mi is like a right arm. He may not be willing to sever ties with Xu Mi. Given his current position, even if Gao Qiao treated him well after switching sides, he would worry about being ostracized by other Gao family members. Moreover, if Li Mu really persuades him and he agrees to deploy troops, it would be tantamount to openly breaking with Xu Mi…”

Xiao Daocheng’s eyes lit up.

“Exactly! If Yang Xuan is really alienated by Li Mu and leaves, Xu Mi would lose his capable general—like losing an arm! Not to mention those tens of thousands besieged in the city might not necessarily be able to break out. Even if they are truly rescued and retain some military strength, they’ll have lost all face in court and could never recover their former position.”

“This situation, as long as Li Mu succeeds in his persuasion, regardless of the outcome, will result in mutual destruction for both the Xu and Lu families! But for His Majesty and the Empress, it would be like removing two thorns that have long been in their flesh!”

He grew more excited as he spoke, his eyes shining brightly.

Gao Yongrong smiled: “Do you still want to warn that old fox Xu Mi?”

Xiao Daocheng saw her slanted glance, her eyes charming in the lamplight, and understood. He moved closer to her, quietly grasping her hand and whispering: “Every move I make naturally follows Your Highness’s command, obeying completely…”

…

Gao Qiao personally wrote the letter to Yang Xuan, discussed the rescue plan in detail with Li Mu, then summoned his subordinates through the night to draft various detailed contingency plans. By the time matters were initially settled, it was deep night.

Due to the urgency, Li Mu planned to set out the next morning to meet Yang Xuan, then rush to Chang’an. With matters concluded, Gao Qiao personally escorted him from the study, repeatedly cautioning him to be careful.

Li Mu agreed to everything.

Gao Qiao watched his departing figure and suddenly said: “Jingchen, remember—this military operation’s primary goal is dispersing Beixia’s besieging forces, not asking you to risk your life saving people. If the situation becomes unfavorable, adapt as needed and use your own judgment. If the rescue fails, it’s heaven’s will. Above all, prioritize your own safety.”

Li Mu stopped, slowly turned around, and respectfully said: “I understand.”

Gao Qiao nodded: “Return to your room quickly and rest. You’ll depart tomorrow morning. A’Mi will remain home for now. Don’t worry—I’ll take good care of her.”

Li Mu thanked him with a bow, then quickly departed.

…

Lu Xiurong’s figure gradually receded in the night, completely disappearing behind the gate at the end of the courtyard path.

“Young lady, she’s gone far. Please come inside!”

Seeing her still standing by the door without moving, the maid reminded her.

Luoshen slowly turned and returned to the room.

She knew that Lu Xiurong would probably never again make such requests of her.

She should feel relieved about this.

Even the closest childhood friends, so close they shared handkerchiefs and pillows, with no secrets between them, finally couldn’t withstand that invisible hand of fate. They had each turned different directions, growing further apart with no possibility of return.

Luoshen knew that tonight, she had completely lost the old friend she had tried so hard to hold onto.

Lu Xiurong would never seek her out again.

Some traces of her girlhood days, like flowing sand impossible to grasp between fingers, would inevitably and slowly leave her behind.

Fortunately, on this new path, traveling alongside her was that man named Li Mu.

Luoshen let out a long sigh, dispelling the melancholy in her heart and gathering her spirits to wait for Li Mu’s return.

Knowing that at this moment her father and he were discussing matters of great importance in the study, she sat in the outer room waiting for him.

At midnight, he still hadn’t returned. Luoshen felt restless, the book in her hands like a decoration—she hadn’t turned a page in ages. She simply put down the book and opened the door, intending to check on her father’s study again. Looking up, she saw a tall figure in the courtyard path, returning in moonlight.

Li Mu had returned.

His expression looked much the same as usual—neither pleased nor troubled between his brows, quite calm.

Luoshen’s heart urgently wanted to know how his discussion with her father had gone and what he was thinking.

If it were before, she certainly would have asked him already. But tonight, she dared not show her feelings, much less inquire.

As if it were an ordinary night waiting for his return, she smiled and welcomed him in, helped him undress and bathe, and was carried by him from the bath to bed.

He reached out to untie her silk robe. Her jade arms embraced his neck, tenderly responding. Suddenly she heard him ask by her ear: “A’Mi, why don’t you ask what your father and I discussed tonight?”

Luoshen opened her eyes and met his gaze.

His eyes seemed to hold some scrutiny.

As she hesitated, Li Mu suddenly relaxed his brow, held her against his chest, and gently pinched her delicate nose.

“Ask me whatever you want to know. Though your husband is petty-minded, I don’t dare overthink anymore. Go ahead and ask. If I really can’t help overthinking again, punish me a few more times and I’ll remember…”

He looked at her with a smile.

That night she had used a silk ribbon to tie his wrists to the headboard and covered his eyes, teasing him thoroughly until he finally couldn’t bear it and broke the ribbon to free himself.

Hearing him joke about that night, her face couldn’t help reddening as she quickly covered his mouth. They laughed quietly together for a moment. Before she could speak, Li Mu first revealed the final decision himself.

Luoshen carefully asked: “Did my A’Ye force you to help?”

“Do you think if I didn’t agree, your A’Ye could force me to consent?”

Luoshen shook her head.

Li Mu stroked her head and smiled.

“That’s right. A’Mi, I won’t hide from you—I’ve disagreed with some of your father’s views and actions before, and I still do. But I’m gradually developing some admiration for him. Living in this world of mud and murky water, especially reaching his high position, yet still maintaining his principles—I find this quite rare.”

Li Mu didn’t tell her exactly why he had decided to do his utmost to save Lu Jianzhi and those tens of thousands of soldiers trapped in the city with him.

Besides the noble reasons her A’Ye recognized that Luoshen could understand without thinking, perhaps Li Mu also had other thoughts he couldn’t share with outsiders.

But none of this mattered.

His willingness to cooperate with her father was already enough.

Her petite body knelt entirely on his strong legs, long hair falling down to conceal her tender, lovely chest, her slender waist, her long legs tightly closed, forming several alluring curves.

“Husband, take care of yourself. Remember to come back early for me.”

Luoshen gazed at the husband lying beneath her, slowly leaning toward him, her beautiful eyes full of reluctance at their impending separation.

Early the next morning, Li Mu embraced Luoshen one last time as she saw him off, then rode with Fan Cheng and a guard escort through the quiet imperial city in the dim morning light, once again galloping toward that seemingly clear yet unknown distance.

At this moment, how could he have imagined that this departure would separate him from his little wife for so long, and that when he returned, he would already bear the title of Grand Marshal.

In this nation, below one person, above ten thousand others.