Lu Ningxiang 10-14 (Complete)

Author: Fallen Leaf Scholar
Word Count: 14854 (Completed on October 14th)
Link: thread-9067917-1-1.

Chapter Ten: The Perilous Banquet Gate
Such an era always leaves many names in people's memories—many beautiful names, many tragic names, many heroic names. A thousand years later, their appearances are no longer known; only their faded deeds remain in the images of time.
Uloranti was trapped on a stone pillar in the main hall, her body covered with whip marks. Jin Gui's limbs were bound together, and he was suspended naked about ten meters in front of Uloranti. His nostrils were hooked, the other end of the hook connected to a rope, one end of which was looped around his back and tied to his genitals, preventing him from looking down and forcing him to watch his mother suffer. Lu Ning stood beside Ulolanti, whip in hand. The moment Jin Gui blinked, Lu Ning would lash Ulolanti's naked body with the whip, leaving his dark skin battered and mangled. Each cry of pain elicited bursts of laughter from Lu Ning. After a while, Lu Ning grew tired of playing and turned to look at Yan Ning, who sat high in the hall. Yan Ning stood up, approached Jin Gui, and gently stroked his tear-streaked cheek. Then she walked to Ulolanti and said softly, "You have all fallen to such a state, yet your Chanyu is still not resigned. Hunxie Wang has invited me to a banquet; this is a perfect opportunity to defeat our army in one fell swoop."
"Princess, please calm down," Ulolanti said. "The Chanyu has heard of the wisdom of both princesses… He must sincerely have sent Hunxie Wang to seek peace with the Han… to spare the people of the border from the ravages of war…"
"You really know how to defend your Chanyu," Yan Ning said, gently teasing Wuluolanti's nipple with a jade-like finger. "I know what Hunxie King is thinking... He has a close relationship with Xiutu King. Don't you... want to avenge your husband?"
Upon hearing this, Wuluolanti shuddered and hurriedly replied, "This lowly servant would never dare to have such thoughts. This lowly servant is absolutely devoted to the two princesses. I beg the princesses to show mercy..."
Just as she finished speaking, a soldier rushed into the hall and knelt on one knee, saying, "Reporting to the princess, something terrible has happened! Hunxie King has led a large army to attack the royal city, and it seems we cannot resist."
Wuluolanti turned her head sharply to look at the soldier, while Yan Ning remained coldly focused on Wuluolanti's eyes. A glint of light flashed in Wuluolanti's eyes for a moment. Just as she was gloating, Yan Ning slapped her hard across the face. Lu Ning smiled and said, "Look at how happy you are. It's just a pity that this was only a test from my sister and me. Hunxie King... has no chance of conquering our capital."
Ulolanti's face showed extreme fear and unease. Yan Ning looked at her coldly, raised her hand and slapped her again, saying coldly, "Your eyes have made you give up your last chance to be human. You just lied to me. You will not sincerely submit to us."
"Princess, have mercy, this lowly servant..."
Before she could finish speaking, Lu Ning drew her sword and with a "whoosh," severed the rope suspending the golden ghost. The golden ghost fell heavily to the ground. Lu Ning stepped on the golden ghost's head and said mockingly, "Since your mother is so disloyal, shouldn't I kill her?"
"Princess, have mercy, my mother..."
"You dare plead for her?" Lu Ning smiled, pressing down harder with her feet. Jin Gui's face twisted in pain, and Ulolanti cried out, begging the two princesses for mercy. Yan Ning grabbed one of her breasts with one hand, and Ulolanti screamed. "Shut up!" Yan Ning snapped. Ulolanti could only grit her teeth and remain silent. Yan Ning said seductively, "That's right." Suddenly, she pulled, revealing several deep scratches on Ulolanti's breast, from which blood flowed freely. She screamed and fainted. Yan Ning turned to the soldier and said, "Take her to the cell and wake her up. Share her with the guards."
"Yes, sir!" The soldier untied Ulolanti's ropes, carried her away, and left. Jin Gui cried out for mercy, but Yan Ning ignored him and went straight back to her throne. Lu Ning kicked Jin Gui so he was lying on his back, then sat on his face and said, "If you don't want your mother to die, then serve me well." Jin Gui, with tears in his eyes, licked Lu Ning's genitals through her underwear. Yan Ning looked at Jin Gui, a slight smile playing on his lips…
Ganzhou City was filled with military tents. King Hunxie sat in one, his strategist beside him, both looking at a map on a table. At this moment, a robust general strode into the tent and said, “Your Majesty, tomorrow is the day of the banquet. Do you truly intend to make peace with those two girls?”
“Insolent!” King Hunxie slammed his hand on the table, angrily shouting, “How can you, as a general, be so reckless?”
“This subordinate is simply unconvinced.” The general planted his steel sword in the ground, sat cross-legged, and saw the characters “Li Ji” engraved on the blade. He said angrily, “My Li Ji family has always been invincible on the battlefield. In this way, wouldn’t we become the defeated enemies of those two girls? I believe you have heard of the fate of Prince Xubu and Queen Wuluolan in the Han prison. How can I, a valiant general, allow those two little girls to trample on my head? If you don’t give this subordinate an explanation now, this subordinate will not leave!”
"You..." King Hunxie stood up and said, "Your father is my savior. How could I hand you over to those two girls? Besides, my life is tied to the Great Xiongnu Empire. How could I neglect the prosperity of the nation?"
As he spoke, the strategist stepped forward with a smile. His name was Fan Shu, a shrewd and calculating man who had been advising King Hunxie for over twenty years. He approached Li Ji and said, "General Li Ji, do not be impatient. The banquet is merely the king's plan to lure the two of them into our trap. We will then capture them both in one fell swoop." "
Really?" Li Ji stood up. "You really don't sincerely want to make peace with them?"
"Of course not," Fan Shu said.
"Then what did you mean by 'inviting something into something,' and 'something inside something,'?"
"Hehehe..." Fan Shu stroked his goatee and laughed, "General Li Ji, don't be impatient, let me explain to you in detail..." ...
The day of the banquet arrived in the blink of an eye. Lu Ning and Princess Yan Ning rode white horses, followed by Bian Yun, disguised as Zi Chang. It was his first time holding a sword, and he couldn't help but feel a little awkward. He rode a brown warhorse, and beside him was Hua Lingxue in a purple Han robe. Her expression was still cold, and her demeanor was still elegant. Behind these four was a light cavalry force, about a hundred men. The warhorses did not gallop as usual, but strolled across the wilderness.
Jin Gui and Wu Luolanti were tied to the backs of Lu Ning and Yan Ning's horses, respectively. They crawled along, dressed in thin clothes, and dared not utter a word along the way.
A few miles away, the wilderness had been replaced by a snow-covered forest, a white wonderland where sparrows flitted about. The unfrozen lake reflected the white ice crystals. Beside the lake stood a magnificent pavilion, from which the melodious sound of a guqin drifted. The pavilion was large, and several Xiongnu soldiers stood before its entrance. The already ornate pavilion had been further embellished, appearing even more luxurious. A large plaque with golden characters read "Wanghu Pavilion" (Lake-Viewing Pavilion). A red carpet was laid on the path in front of the pavilion, flanked by rows of Xiongnu soldiers.
Yan Ning and Lu Ning's entourage arrived at Wanghu Pavilion. Hunxie King and Fan Shu personally came out to greet them. Upon seeing the two princesses, they bowed and said, "Your Highnesses, it is an honor to have you here. I am so sorry for not welcoming you sooner!"
"I heard that Hunxie King intends to seek peace with our Han Dynasty..." Yan Ning, seated on his horse, said coldly, "If it is to seek peace, shouldn't you kneel and acknowledge me as your subject, instead of calling me king?"
A slight displeasure appeared on Hunxie King's face, but he immediately smiled obsequiously, "Your Highness is absolutely right." He then knelt down and said, "We pay our respects to Your Highnesses."
Yan Ning gave a contemptuous sneer. Bian Yun and Hua Lingxue helped the two princesses dismount. The two princesses, leading Jin Gui and Wuluolanti, walked to the gate. Lu Ning turned back to look at Hunxie King kneeling on the ground and pointed to Wuluolanti and her son behind him: "You don't recognize these two dogs, do you?"
"Your Majesty, I know your two princesses are incredibly powerful," said Hunxie King. "These two... have taught our Xiongnu people a lesson, and we will certainly remember it."
"Haha," Lu Ning smiled. "Lead us in."
"Yes." With that, the group arrived at the second floor of Wanghu Pavilion, which was as luxurious as a grand hall. The two princesses sat in the center, Hunxie King and Fan Shu sat on the right, and Li Ji and several generals sat on the left. The sound of drums rang out, and a dozen Xiongnu dancers came to the center of the hall. Hunxie King cupped his hands and said, "This is a Xiongnu song and dance. I hope the two princesses will forgive my poor performance."
"Exotic songs and dances naturally have their own unique charm," said Yan Ning. "However, compared to the arts of our dynasty, they still pale in comparison."
"Yes... yes..." Hunxie King laughed.
After the performance, several servants brought wine and dishes and filled a cup of wine for the two princesses. Hunxie King raised his cup and said, "Today, our Xiongnu and the Han princess are seeking peace.
We, your subjects, will drink to this in respect!" "Wait!" Lu Ning smiled and said, "We have long heard of the Xiongnu's fine and strong wine, but we are not yet accustomed to it. Today, my sister and I have brought some fine wine from the Han court for you to taste." Saying this, she said to Bian Yun behind her, "Zichang, go and present the century-old wine we brought."
"Yes!" Bian Yun turned and left.
Seeing Bian Yun leave, Hunxie King gave Li Ji a wink. Li Ji was about to get up when he saw Fan Shu beside Hunxie King with his eyes tightly closed, indicating that he should not. Fan Shu whispered to Hunxie King, "If I'm not mistaken, the woman behind them is the world's number one assassin—Hua Lingxue. Your Majesty, do not act rashly."
"An honest man does not do things in secret," Yan Ning said. "Since you have something to say, just say it. Don't be sneaky."
"Princess Yan Ning is indeed exceptionally astute," Hunxie King laughed. "Just now, the strategist reminded me to present the peace offering to the princess, intending to give her a surprise, but you saw through it."
"Oh?" Lu Ning smiled and kicked the golden ghost at her feet. "Actually, weren't you already quite surprised to see this mother and son?"
"The two princesses are shrewd and resourceful, both wise and brave. To be an enemy of the princesses will inevitably lead to this fate," Fan Shu said.
After a while, Bian Yun, accompanied by several men, carried up a jar of wine. Fan Shu carefully examined Bian Yun, who seemed somewhat nervous. Fan Shu then shifted his gaze to the sword at Bian Yun's waist, and smiled slightly: "This must be General Zi Chang. I've long heard of your strength and invincible power, but I never imagined you were so handsome."
Upon hearing this, Zi Chang began to panic and hurriedly said, "Appearance is merely a disguise, just as Yan Dan said: 'Appearance is a disguise to conceal the true nature of the heart.'" " I never
imagined that General Zi Chang is not only exceptionally skilled in martial arts but also well-versed in literature. I admire you greatly," said Hun Xie Wang. "I've long heard of General Zi Chang's divine swordsmanship. With the Mo Xue sword drawn, it possesses the power to defeat a hundred men single-handedly. I dare to ask if I may have the honor of witnessing General Zi Chang's swordsmanship."
...
The setting sun burns away the remaining clouds,
the moonlight illuminates the lonely soul.
Leaves fall, flowers wither,
and the rouge-clad figure awaits the return of her beloved.
—Chapter Eleven of Fallen Leaves Scholar
: The Dance of a Thousand Souls
The sunlight was gradually obscured by dark clouds, the cold wind still biting. It was dusk. Zi Chang's five thousand elite soldiers lay in ambush in the mountains a hundred meters away from Wanghu Pavilion. They were all dressed in white animal fur, which would make them more concealed. At this time, Huo Bin had led his army to within a mile of Hunxie King's city. Hunxie King, his strategist, and his commander were not in the city. For Huo Bin, taking the city at this moment would be as easy as turning his hand.
The atmosphere inside Wangyue Pavilion was somewhat tense. Hua Lingxue was also ready to fight at any time. Bian Yun looked around and then smiled slightly: "As everyone knows, Mo Xue's sword is never drawn lightly. If Hunxie King really wants to appreciate my swordsmanship, please allow me to use a flute instead of a sword."
"Use a flute instead of a sword?"
Hunxie King was somewhat surprised. Bian Yun turned and walked towards Lu Ning, presenting her with the sword in both hands. He bowed and said, "Please, Your Highness, keep
this sword for me for now." Lu Ning hesitated for a moment, then took the sword. Bian Yun stood in the center of the hall, took out a bamboo flute from his waist, and began to play. The flute danced gracefully in his hands, but his movements lacked any fierce killing intent. Li Ji squinted at Bian Yun's "swordsmanship," while Lu Ning and Yan Ning had already discerned its true nature. Fan Shu frowned; he had never seen such moves before. Bian Yun made his final appearance before the two princesses, and everyone applauded and cheered. Yan Ning, however, shook her head slightly. She wanted to tell Bian Yun how risky his actions were, and how they would cause Lu Ning to lose trust in him.
As expected, Lu Ning smiled and said to Yan Ning, "Sister, Han'er will go out for a moment."
Then she said to Hunxie Wang, "I'll excuse myself for a moment. Zichang, come with me."
With that, she led Bian Yun to a secluded spot outside.
Lu Ning held her sword, her back to Bian Yun. Bian Yun stood behind her, cupping his hands and saying, "I wonder what brings the princess here so suddenly..."
Before he could finish speaking, Lu Ning suddenly drew her sword, turned around, and held it to Bian Yun's neck, looking at him coldly. Bian Yun was startled and immediately knelt down, saying, "Princess, what is this...?"
"What you just performed in the hall wasn't swordsmanship, but a Western Region dance,"
Lu Ning said. "That dance requires bamboo sticks, and while it looks like a set of moves, to outsiders it's a very difficult dance to learn. Yet you danced it so skillfully. You lied to me. You're not from Changzhou; you're from the Western Regions."
Bian Yun lowered his head and said, "As expected, I couldn't fool the princess."
Bian Yun slightly raised his head, tears welling in his eyes, and said, "My original name was Yu Ruojie Yunwu. I was born in Ruoqiang in the Western Regions. My father was Yu Ruojie Dongwu, the Protector-General of Ruoqiang, and my mother was Yungewaji. I have seven older siblings, and I am the youngest brother. In our culture, dying in battle is considered auspicious, while dying from illness is considered inauspicious. My father taught me martial arts from a young age, but I only know the basics. My mother was a skilled singer and dancer; her dance..." "It is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen in my life. When I was six years old, my father offended the ailing Emperor Jing of Han with a single word and was executed by being torn apart by five horses. My family was also implicated. After learning the news, my mother hid me in the deep mountains. Later, I was discovered and adopted by a scholar traveling in the Western Regions. He noticed that although I was a Qiang, I looked like someone from the Central Plains, so he changed my name to Bian Yun. From then on, I lived in anonymity and became a student of the Mohist school."
As he spoke, Bian Yun took out a bamboo flute and said, "This flute was my mother's last gift. Our family name is engraved on it."
He held the flute above his head with both hands and said, "Please take a look, Princess. If you do not believe me, please kill me."
Lu Ning took the flute and saw that it was indeed engraved with the words "Yu Ruojie". She put away her sword and took the bamboo flute with her. Di left coldly…
Back at Wanghu Pavilion, Fan Shu stroked his goatee and said, “To show my sincerity in seeking peace, I present the two princesses with a map of the area south of the Gobi Desert in Xiongnu territory. Someone, present the map.”
A short while later, a Xiongnu soldier handed a scroll of map to Yan Ning with both hands. After the two princesses examined it, Yan Ning put the map away. At this moment, a Han soldier approached her and whispered in her ear, “General Zichang sent a message saying…”
Upon hearing this, Yan Ning smiled slightly and said, “Since King Hunxie is so sincere, let us turn hostility into friendship and spare the people the suffering of war.”
Hearing this, Fan Shu’s face revealed a sinister smile. Yan Ning continued, “Having just enjoyed the Xiongnu song and dance, now, I will let you experience the splendor of the Han Dynasty.”
“Oh?”
King Hunxie smiled smugly, “Then… I’ll broaden my horizons today.”
Lu Ning smiled and winked at the soldier, who bowed and turned to leave the hall. A short while later, dozens of Han soldiers carried in a large bamboo frame, followed by three men carrying a large drum. The moment they placed the frame on the ground, Hunxie Wang and Fan Shu's expressions froze. On it lay over a hundred Xiongnu soldiers, their upper bodies bare, heads and shoulders intertwined, neatly arranged on the bamboo frame like a carpet woven from their bodies. Their hands, feet, and bodies were firmly fixed to the frame, unable to move. A steel bar pierced their ankles, keeping their legs together. Fireworks were placed around them. These were soldiers Hunxie Wang had sent to ambush around Wanghu Pavilion. The drumbeat began, and Hua Lingxue slowly stepped onto the bodies. The drumbeat grew stronger, and Hua Lingxue danced gracefully on them. The soldiers beneath her feet struggled in agony, but were powerless to resist. Hua Lingxue stepped onto a man's face, lifted her other foot, and then executed a graceful spin. The man's face was distorted beyond recognition beneath her feet. When her feet left, the man was unrecognizable. Each leap and landing was so beautiful, while the man beneath her screamed in agony. Hua Lingxue spun again, and as the drumbeat ended, her other foot slammed heavily into a soldier's chest. The soldier coughed up blood and then stopped struggling.
At that moment, fireworks went off. Hua Lingxue stood in the center of the fireworks, the falling sparks scorching the soldier beneath her feet. The brilliance of the fireworks couldn't drown out the agonizing screams. Lu Ning clapped and cheered, while Hunxie Wang, Fan Shu, Li Ji, and the others were already dumbfounded. Yan Ning smiled and looked at Bian Yun: "Why don't you use your flute to entertain them too?"
Bian Yun seemed to wake from a dream, and he could only nod reluctantly, saying, "Yes...yes..."
As he spoke, he took out his bamboo flute, sat cross-legged on the ground, and the flute music began to play gently. The fireworks gradually faded, and Hua Lingxue once again danced with her graceful figure. Her body spun continuously, stepping over the burn wounds of each soldier beneath her feet. The tune was called "Snow Lament." Snow began to fall outside, and the world seemed so quiet. Hua Lingxue's face remained cold, the soldiers beneath her feet continued to howl in pain, and the flute music remained a mournful sigh...
"
Enough!"
Li Ji angrily slammed his fist on the table. Before anyone could react, Hua Lingxue flicked her wrist and plunged a throwing knife into his wrist, pinning his hand firmly to the table. Then, she leaped in front of Li Ji and stomped hard on his chest. The flute music stopped abruptly.
"You..."
King Hunxie stood up, "I wanted to make peace with you, but you have been so cruel."
"Cruel?"
Lu Ning raised an eyebrow, stood up with the map in her hand, and said, "This map is completely fake!"
With that, she threw the map down in front of them, then glanced at Hua Lingxue. Hua Lingxue flicked her wrist, sending a throwing knife flying at a maid carrying a wine pot. The maid's throat was pierced, and she fell to the ground. The wine pot shattered, wine splashed everywhere, and a puff of white smoke rose. Fan Shu and King Hunxie were shocked. Lu Ning said sharply, "You poisoned this wine, and you still say you want to make peace?"
"Since that's the case..."
King Hunxie roared, "The only option is to fight to the death!"
With that, he drew his precious sword and shouted, "Kill!"
As soon as he finished speaking, Zichang led his army and burst in. More than a dozen swords were held to the necks of King Hunxie and Fan Shu. Yan Ning slowly stood up and said, "I always thought you were a smart man. I had them bring up the men you sent to ambush us all around to tell you that your plan was exposed long ago, yet you still thought you could escape by chance?"
"I didn't expect..."
King Hunxie lowered his head, "I still lost to you. But even if I die, my Hunxie Royal City has 500,000 troops. They won't let you go."
"Your 500,000 men?"
Lu Ning smiled and said to Zichang, "They should be back soon, right?"
"Reporting to the princess, this humble general just received General Huo's order that the front has achieved victory. They are escorting the prisoners of war back quickly and should be arriving soon."
"What front?"
Fan Shu was somewhat shaken.
Yan Ning smiled, "Strategist, don't be impatient. You'll see soon enough. If you kneel down and beg for mercy now, I might spare your lives."
She then looked at Li Ji, who roared, "Don't even think about it!" As they spoke
, Huo Bin strode into the hall and knelt on one knee before the two princesses, saying, "This humble general is late in rescuing Your Majesty. I beg Your Majesty's forgiveness."
"General Huo, please rise,"
Lu Ning said with a smile. "Protecting Your Majesty was Zi Chang's order. What crime has General Huo committed?"
"General Huo,"
Yan Ning said softly, "tell us your battle report… let our King Hunxie hear it." "
This humble general has decisively breached Hunxie's city, massacring 400,000 enemy soldiers, capturing over a hundred enemy generals, awaiting Your Majesty's judgment. Another 100,000 enemy soldiers have fled in disarray."
"How could this be…"
King Hunxie trembled. Yan Ning walked up to him and said, "How about it? Didn't you say… that being my enemy would end up like a dog? If you don't want to die… kneel down and admit defeat."
"No!"
Li Ji shouted. Hua Lingxue drew her dagger, but just as she raised her hand, Hunxie King yelled, "Stop!" He
then slowly knelt down, crying, "I...I lost!"
"Hahaha..."
Lu Ning laughed as she walked up to Fan Shu. "Your king has already admitted defeat, are you still not giving up?"
Fan Shu closed his eyes and said, "I wanted to see the day when my Xiongnu dominate the Central Plains, but alas..."
He took a sudden step forward, and Zi Chang swung his sword, beheading him. Lu Ning kicked Fan Shu's head and said, "What a self-righteous old fool."
Yan Ning stepped on Hunxie King's head. "Since you've already knelt before me, I'll spare your dog's life for now. However...I want you to witness with your own eyes the scene of us tearing your General Li Ji apart with five horses..." ...
The
cold snow fell heavily, and the lake was filled with sighs
. Heroes' fame was built on countless bones.
People still remembered the old hatred,
but forgot that their eyes were filled with mist.
————————
Chapter Twelve of Fallen Leaves Scholar: Silent Farewell
Night. The night was as quiet as ever. Snowflakes drifted down with the sound of a flute. Hunxie King was now a prisoner, and to him, the flute music sounded like the lament of the dead, or perhaps a requiem for himself. Hua Lingxue remembered this flute music. In those silent years, Bian Yun had used it to express his heartfelt feelings. But time had passed, and with the princess's decree, Li Ji's fame had fallen like a star. Three years had passed in the blink of an eye. How many people still remembered the general who stood under the night sky, leaning on his precious sword, gazing at the Northwest Wolf in the chilly wind? How many people still remembered the strategist who observed the stars at night, stroking his goatee? How many people still remembered the lord of a city who, by candlelight, laid the map flat on the table, pointing to the Central Plains? The flute music remained, the night sky was as it always was, the Han Dynasty still existed, the princess still existed, the fierce general still existed, but the smoke of war had faded away after the snow. The Xiongnu in the west began to decline, and they sought peace with the Han Dynasty. The emperor was overjoyed, unaware that the spark that had ignited the prairie fire had already quietly died down.
At dawn, the flute music ceased, and Zi Chang, as always, stood guard before the princess's palace. The earthhound gently licked Yan Ning's toes, waking her softly. Yan Ning teased the earthhound's cheek with her toes. Urolandi knelt before Lu Ning's bed. After Lu Ning awoke, she rode on her back to the dressing table. The person in the bronze mirror was still handsome, everything was the same as before, only something seemed missing. Lu Ning bestowed the Golden Ghost upon Hua Lingxue. This seemingly delicate assassin was cruel by nature. The Golden Ghost's eyes were sewn shut; whenever it heard her footsteps, it would crawl to Hua Lingxue's feet, bend down and gently kiss her shoes, then lie back, waiting for Hua Lingxue to bestow upon it celestial nectar imbued with the fragrance of a woman's body.
At the start of the morning court session, Lu Ning, Yan Ning, Hua Lingxue, Zi Chang, and Huo Bin arrived together at the main hall of the palace. The Han Emperor smiled and said, "Yesterday, the Xiongnu sent an envoy to our Great Han to propose a marriage alliance, asking for the Xiongnu Chanyu's only prince, Po Liu Han Yun, to marry into our Han court. From now on, the war between the Han and the Xiongnu will be over, and the people will be able to live in peace."
"Your Majesty is wise!" the civil and military officials exclaimed in unison.
"Since others are willing to befriend us, we cannot be negligent. However, regarding the choice of a marriage partner, do any of you have a suitable candidate?"
"Your Majesty!" An old minister stepped forward and said, "Since ancient times, the marriage of a man to a woman has always been considered a shameful act, which shows that the Xiongnu's morale has declined. Moreover, Po Liu Han Yun is the only descendant of the Xiongnu's Great Chanyu. I believe that Your Majesty should choose a powerful princess to suppress the Xiongnu's morale in the long term." "
Do you have a suitable candidate?"
"This..." The old minister hesitated for a moment and said, "I am not sure if I should speak."
"Please speak freely, my dear minister."
"I believe that Your Majesty's two princesses have driven the Xiongnu to the northern desert in three battles, imprisoned the Queen Mother, executed Xiu Tu, devised a plan to thwart the Wanghu Banquet, and captured Hunxie King alive. These deeds have long been legendary tales of our Han Dynasty. If one of the two princesses is chosen, she will surely intimidate the Xiongnu and suppress Po Liu Han Yun."
"Hmm..." The Han Emperor nodded slightly. Zi Chang looked somewhat uneasy. Lu Ning and Yan Ning glared at the old minister, who raised his eyes slightly and, seeing the displeasure on the two princesses' faces, immediately lowered his head. Huo Bin glanced at Zi Chang, who seemed to have sensed something, and quickly stepped forward, cupping his hands and saying, "Your Majesty, I believe that this marriage alliance with the Xiongnu, ostensibly for peace, may harbor treacherous intentions. If we easily betroth the princess to him, there may be dangers."
Yan Ning looked at Lu Ning, then at Zi Chang, and said to the Han Emperor, "Father, although Lu Ning has experienced countless battles and possesses exceptional strategic skills, she is still young. I would prefer to arrange a marriage alliance with that Po Liu Han Yun."
Zi Chang and Lu Ning were taken aback. Huo Bin looked at Yan Ning, who gave him a wink, and Huo Bin said nothing more. The Han Emperor was overjoyed. After ordering preparations for the marriage alliance, he dismissed the court. Yan Ning returned to the palace, and shortly after, Huo Bin requested an audience. Upon seeing the princess, he first knelt on one knee to pay his respects. Yan Ning told him to dispense with the formalities and offered him a seat. Huo Bin sighed and said, "I don't know why the princess willingly proposed a marriage alliance with the Xiongnu today. This humble general believes this matter is quite suspicious, and I hope the princess will reconsider."
"General Huo has come at the right time," Yan Ning said. "Lu Ning is still young and lacks the ability to be wary of others. I also believe there is something fishy about the Xiongnu's proposal of a marriage alliance. On the day of the marriage alliance, I would like General Huo to lead 5,000 elite troops to set up camp one mile outside the imperial city, while Zi Chang will guard the area inside the imperial city."
"But if we all go to guard the city, who will guard the princess's carriage?"
"Hua Lingxue will disguise herself as a maid to guard me."
"The princess's strategy is superb; this humble general is utterly impressed."
"General Huo, you flatter me." Yan Ning smiled slightly. "I only ordered you to guard the outer perimeter of the imperial city. Do you understand?"
"The princess commands, and this humble general will not hesitate to die for her. I am willing to shed my last drop of blood to defend the imperial city."
"That's good." Yan Ning said, "You may leave now."
Huo Bin bowed and was about to leave when Yan Ning stopped him, saying, "It would be a pity if General Huo's abilities were not trusted on the land of my Great Han."
Huo Bin bowed again, "I will never forget the princess's kindness!" With that, he left.
The snowflakes continued to dance, and the streets and alleys of the imperial city were less lively. The story of Yan Ning and Lu Ning was already known to every household. The people praised the two princesses for their wisdom and courage, and at the same time, they also praised Zi Chang and Huo Bin for their bravery and sincerity. That morning, the sound of Bian Yun's flute filled the night. The palace hall was quiet. Lu Ning looked out the window, seemingly having forgotten about the mother and child at her feet. The two men had licked her shoes clean, but they dared not stop without Lu Ning's permission. Yan Ning's treatment of prisoners of war remained cruel. The execution ground behind the palace was like a living hell, with prisoners of war hanging high, frozen solid. Those still alive were thrown into the death row, where only death awaited them. Young and strong prisoners of war were used as laborers, working tirelessly every day. Their emaciated bodies were covered with whip marks. In their eyes, Yan Ning's execution ground seemed to be closer to death than the battlefield.
A guard entered Lu Ning's palace. He knelt on one knee and said, "Your Highness, Bian Yun has been nowhere to be found, either inside or outside the palace. Only a letter and his bamboo flute were found on his desk. Please take a look." He presented the letter and flute to Lu Ning with both hands. After reading the letter, tears welled up in her eyes. The letter was written by Bian Yun himself, and the flute was left by him. Bian Yun…
Golden palace, snow-covered curtains,
fallen leaves, frost filling the sky.
The letter and the flute remain, but
the beloved is nowhere to be seen. —Chapter Thirteen of
Fallen Leaves Scholar : The Sparrow's Plan "Yesterday we met, both lost in thought; today we part, my heart still sighs. The smoke of war rages, when will it end? Alas, fate has decreed we are not destined to be together. Alas! Alas! This parting is unavoidable, how helpless! If we meet again someday, I beg the princess to execute me swiftly! I only pray for a peaceful next life, and I am willing to serve the princess like a beast of burden! —Bian Yun's letter" Time passed slowly, and Lu Ning wept every night. She seemed to know what Bian Yun wanted to say. In these days, Lu Ning had become much more haggard. Zi Chang saw this but said nothing. He always protected Lu Ning, and when he turned away, he gripped the sword in his hand even tighter. Hua Lingxue stood at the tip of the tower. She loved the view before her. She never spoke, and her face never showed any expression. The wind blew through her hair; she… remained as cold as snow. On the execution ground, the laborers toiled away, while soldiers on either side occasionally lashed out with their whips. Yan Ning sat on a chair resembling the Temple of Heaven, with Hunxie Wang kneeling at her feet, wearing a collar and licking every part of her shoes, including the mud and snow on the soles. A mastiff knelt to her left, and Yan Ning occasionally reached out to stroke its hair. Hua Lingxue stood to her right, her eyes cold and wary. The lives and dignity of the prisoners of war had long been ruthlessly trampled underfoot by Yan Ning. Her arrogant gaze told everyone that in Yan Ning's eyes, they were as lowly as pigs and dogs, and their lives as fragile as ants. Yan Ning kicked Hunxie Wang away, cursing, "Get out of my way! You dead dog!" "Princess, spare me! Princess, spare me!" Hunxie Wang kowtowed to the ground, his body trembling uncontrollably. Yan Ning grabbed his hair and said, "Are you afraid?" "Your...Princess's majesty is enough...enough to make everyone...fear...this servant..." Hunxie Wang said, trembling. "Even Hunxie Wang, who once fought on the battlefield and was famous in the Western Regions, can be afraid?"

Upon hearing this, King Hunxie closed his eyes. The cries of General Li Ji as he was torn apart by five horses, the screams of prisoners thrown into a steamer, Fan Shu's head at the princess's feet—the blood-soaked, incomplete, and gruesome corpses… These images flashed through King Hunxie's mind, causing him to shudder. It was as if the princess before him would condemn his soul to the deepest hell, never to be reborn. King Hunxie slowly opened his eyes: "This servant… is not afraid of death… but of the high and mighty princess."
"Hmph…" Yan Ning said, pulling a dagger from her waist and slowly pressing it against King Hunxie's eyes. King Hunxie's eyes widened, beads of sweat beginning to trickle down. Yan Ning smiled slightly: "I can now make you feel something more terrifying than fear, but… I haven't completely stripped you of your dignity yet, so…"
Hearing this, King Hunxie shuddered again. He didn't know what kind of torture this woman would inflict upon him. Perhaps, at this moment, death would be a release. Huo Bin entered the execution ground and strode towards Yan Ning. Reaching her, he knelt on one knee, clasped his hands, and said, "Your Highness, the Xiongnu have sent envoys to pay respects to His Majesty. They request that His Majesty return King Hunxie to them, and are willing to exchange three cities for him."
"Three cities?" Yan Ning said softly, lifting King Hunxie's chin with her toe. "It seems you are nothing more than a useful dog in their eyes."
"The Great Chanyu is unaware that Wuluolanti and her son are still alive; he believes this servant has become a rebel," King Hunxie said. "The Great Chanyu intends to execute this servant."
"Hmph..." Yan Ning smiled coldly and said, "I've heard that your Great Chanyu has a strategist named Wushi, whose strategies are three times superior to yours, Fan Shu. Even our General Huo, well-versed in military strategy, respects him. It's probably his idea to redeem you."
"You flatter me, Princess." King Hunxie trembled, his eyes fixed on the foot lifting his chin, not daring to look directly at Yan Ning. He whispered, "Although the Xiongnu have strategists, they have now submitted to the Han Dynasty. It is clear... the Xiongnu strategists are no match for you
, Princess." "General Huo," Yan Ning said, "go back and tell my father that King Hunxie has become my personal property. If the Xiongnu want to redeem him, three cities will suffice for a complete corpse."
"Your subordinate obeys!" Huo Bin said, and left. Hunxie King closed his eyes, knowing his return to the Xiongnu was hopeless. He buried his head at Yan Ning's feet. Yan Ning smiled, summoned two guards, and spoke to them. After a while, the two guards brought a ferocious hunting dog to Hunxie King. Yan Ning kicked Hunxie King's face and said, "It's our most ferocious bitch, and also our ugliest bitch, but I think... you look quite compatible with it now."
Hunxie King suddenly looked up. Yan Ning said to the guards beside him, "Have all the laborers stop working and come watch how their Hunxie King and our bitch put on a good show." Hunxie King's eyes were filled with terror. The guards forced the laborers to kneel in rows below the altar. Yan Ning smiled, "Hunxie King... we've all been waiting. Please take off your pants and begin your performance... for the lives of your people."
"Aaaaaah!!!" King Hunxie roared, about to get up, when Yan Ning kicked him to the ground, stepped forward and stomped on his chest, saying, "It seems you still can't let go of your pathetic dignity. Do you really not care about the lives of your people?"
"Kill me!" King Hunxie roared.
"Kill you?" Yan Ning smiled slightly, gesturing to the guards. The first row of guards raised their swords and brought their blades down, instantly, more than a dozen heads fell to the ground. King Hunxie lay at Yan Ning's feet, and Yan Ning smiled and said, "Do you know that King Goujian of Yue endured hardship and humiliation? I'm giving you a chance. If you can bear the humiliation of having sex with a dog, perhaps I'll look at you differently."
"A scholar can be killed..." Before the words were even finished, another row of laborers were executed. Hunxie Wang closed his eyes tightly. Yan Ning said, "Next time, I'll make sure you're no longer a man."
Hunxie Wang gritted his teeth, howling as he slowly pulled down his pants. Yan Ning turned around, a wicked smile flashing across her beautiful face. That night, Hunxie Wang secretly pierced his own throat with a sharp branch. His once brilliant life ended in disgrace and ruin, leaving him with indelible shame until his death…
Time slips away unnoticed, flowers fade, and people grow old. The war in the Northwest subsided, and Princess Yan Ning was only two or three years old, while Princess Lu Ning was ten and eight. Yet their beauty remained unchanged, as pure as snow and ice, as clear as a lake. In the dead of night, at Huo Bin's desk, the general, under the candlelight, held a military treatise. His temples were slightly gray, but he remained majestic. Sun Tzu's strategies of war sometimes amazed him, and sometimes filled him with a sense of shame. Outside the window, the cold snow fell, and there stood Zi Chang's still desolate figure. Only the Mo Xue sword in his hand listened to his lament. He looked up and saw Princess Lu Ning's palace before him, resplendent in gold and jade, yet its lights seemed to reflect a weary sorrow. Snowflakes gently caressed his handsome face. He remembered the princess riding on his back, that joyful laughter, which seemed to have been absent for a long time. If there was anyone in this palace who understood Lu Ning's heart, that person would surely be Zi Chang. A devoted lover is like a general's love for the battlefield…
Inside the Xiongnu Chanyu's tent, a young man's back appeared helpless and sorrowful. The Chanyu sighed: "Those two princesses… three battles have driven me to the northern desert, killing hundreds of my generals and hundreds of thousands of my soldiers. It seems… I truly underestimated the strength of the Han… Fortunately, I still have a skill."
The young man remained silent, his face serene. The Great Chanyu stood up: "The strategist Wushi told me to preserve this opportunity. Unless absolutely necessary, I would not allow myself to push you to the brink of death. But this matter is crucial to the great cause of our Xiongnu's conquest of territory. Yun'er, I hope you can understand my thoughts..." As he spoke, he turned around and looked at the large map hanging behind him, saying: "Back then, our ancestors plundered the land of the Han people. At that time, the Han people had the wisdom of Zhang Liang and the courage of Han Xin. Under such circumstances, our ancestors marched into the Han Kingdom and seized three hundred li of territory. But now, the great generals of the Han Kingdom are gone, leaving only Huo Bin and Zichang. There are no strategists who can rival Wushi, and we have retreated to the northern desert."
"Father," the man said, "Do you really want to see the blood of my Xiongnu flow like rivers? Do you really want innocent people to be displaced?" The man said, "The Xiongnu are not what they used to be. I think... a ceasefire would be enough!"
The Great Chanyu smiled slightly: "Perhaps..." He didn't finish his sentence, but continued, "It's getting late. You will set off early the day after tomorrow. Wushi will go with you..."
The cold winter moon shines on flying snow,
boats and fishermen are absent on the river. Throughout history,
troubles have plagued people,
a dragon emerges from the water to gaze at the bright moon.
————————
Chapter Fourteen: Dew-laden Fragrance
The procession arrived before the imperial city. The city gates opened wide, welcoming countless guards. The people on both sides discussed that the Xiongnu prince, Po Liu Han Yun, was going to marry the Han princess, Yan Ning. Amidst the deafening sound of gongs and drums, a grand procession of a thousand people marched toward the palace. At the very center of the procession was a large sedan chair carried by eight men, flanked by several red-maned horses, upon which rode several generals and a strategist with a goatee—this was Wu Shi. It was another Frost's Descent day. Upon entering the palace gates, the Emperor, Lu Ning, and Yan Ning stood atop the palace tower, with the expressionless Hua Lingxue beside Yan Ning. A grand banquet was held in the palace courtyard, with countless singers and entertainers, and the resounding beat of drums. The Xiongnu prince alighted from his sedan chair and performed the three bows and nine kowtows. The moment he raised his head, Lu Ning turned and left, leaving only a single tear that fell behind her.
The Han Emperor smiled and gestured for the music to stop. The entire imperial city fell silent. The Han Emperor proclaimed loudly, "The Xiongnu and my Great Han have formed a marriage alliance, bringing peace to both sides forever. The people will no longer suffer the ravages of war, and the souls of the dead can finally rest in peace. This will surely become a legendary tale. I hereby announce that a Xiongnu prince will be made the consort of my Great Han Princess Yan Ning!" Hua Lingxue's face remained expressionless. After a while, she followed Yan Ning down from the palace tower. It was already dark when a eunuch shouted, "First bow to Heaven and Earth! ... Second bow to the parents! ... Husband and wife bow to each other..." After the ceremony, gongs and drums resounded, lions and dragons danced, officials drank merrily, and fireworks lit up the sky. That night, in the eyes of the people, was the happiest night ever.
Hua Lingxue walked beside Yan Ning, followed by several attendants and Lady Wu, with a long procession behind them. Before they even reached the inner palace, they heard the sound of a flute coming from Lu Ning's palace. Po Liu Han Yun closed his eyes, and Yan Ning coldly said, "Prince Po Liu Han, would you please come with me to Lu Ning's palace?"
"Tonight is the auspicious day for the princess and her consort," Lady Wu said. "How can we be late?"
"This place... what right do you have to speak?" Yan Ning gave Lady Wu a cold look, and Lady Wu dared not say anything more. Thus, Yan Ning, Po Liu Han, Hua Lingxue, and Lady Wu followed the sound of the flute to Lu Ning's bedchamber. Lu Ning put down her bamboo flute, stood up coldly, and suddenly drew her sword. "Prince! Be careful!" Wu Shi, standing beside Po Liu Han, drew a steel knife from her back and took a step forward. In the blink of an eye, Hua Ling Xue drew her dagger. A white shadow flashed past, and Hua Ling Xue sheathed her dagger. Wu Shi clutched her throat, her eyes wide. A few seconds later, Wu Shi collapsed to the ground, motionless. Before Po Liu Han Yun could react, Lu Ning's sword was already pressed against his throat. Yan Ning silently turned and left. Hua Ling Xue glanced at the two of them and followed. Yan Ning returned to his palace alone, while Hua Ling Xue went alone to a high tower.
Po Liu Han Yun removed his headdress and smiled: "I didn't expect the princess to not kill me with a single sword."
"Po Liu Han..." Lu Ning couldn't hold back her tears: "I once believed your name was Bian Yun, and I once believed your name was Yu Ruo Jie Yun Wu, but you... have deceived me time and time again..."
Po Liu Han lowered his head and said, "This time, I will not deceive the princess again..." He hesitated for a moment, then said: "I was originally a member of the Xiongnu royal family, named Po Liu Han Yun. When I was born, my father was a prince, and my great-grandfather was Po Liu Han Jia She. In my childhood, the Xiongnu were fiercely attacked by the Han people, and I was abandoned in Changzhou. I was adopted by the Ruoqiang people and named Yu Ruo Jie Chang Wu. When I was fourteen, I was determined to find my birth father, so I returned to the Xiongnu alone. At that time, my great-grandfather had passed away, and my father was already the great-grandfather. It was a time when the Xiongnu and the Han armies were frequently at war, and both of my younger brothers had died in battle. My father's advisor, Wu Shi, recommended that I infiltrate the Han people. Thus, I disguised myself as a Han person and came to the Han country, taking the alias Bian Yun." He paused, then continued: "After I came to the Han Kingdom, I found that the Han people were not as fierce as I had imagined. They were all very friendly. Once, I ran out of money, was exhausted and hungry, and collapsed by the roadside. The Mohist master rescued me and taught me the Mohist etiquette. Until I met Hua Lingxue... Every winter solstice, I couldn't help but miss home. Two years ago, I finally couldn't resist wanting to go home to visit my family. Unexpectedly, I was captured by the princess on the way and became her pet..."
Lu Ning said with tears in her eyes, "I no longer believe you... ever since you..." "Leave that letter...you told me to kill you..." Lu Ning sighed deeply. "Now that things have come to this, I only ask you one question: have you ever had me in your heart?"
Po Liu Han Yun remained silent for a long time before finally speaking, "This humble servant does not wish to deceive the princess any longer, but...this humble servant's heart...already belongs to someone else..." Po Liu Han Yun continued, "Father's marriage this time is not a genuine alliance. Because the two princesses are truly exceptional in strategy and courage, they are a great threat to the Xiongnu. Therefore, Father intends to send this humble servant under the guise of a marriage alliance to assassinate the two princesses." After saying this, he closed his eyes...
"Ah!" Lu Ning roared, her hand rising and her knife falling...
When Po Liu Han Yun opened his eyes again, Lu Ning was standing by the window, her sword stuck in the ground in front of him. Lu Ning threw him the bamboo flute in her hand and coldly said, "You...go..."...
Leaving the palace, Po Liu Han Yun came to the tower where he had parted ways with Hua Ling Xue years ago. His intuition told him that Hua Ling Xue would be there. As expected, Hua Lingxue was gazing at the dark horizon. The lights were dim. Po Liuhan stepped forward, and the two remained silent. After a long while, Po Liuhan finally couldn't help but grasp Hua Lingxue's shoulders, turning her towards him, and said, "Yun..." Suddenly, he stopped. He looked deeply into Hua Lingxue's tear-filled eyes. Hua Lingxue held a dagger in one hand, plunging it deep into his heart. Po Liuhan slowly knelt down, gently embracing Hua Lingxue's legs. He looked up at her audacious face, tears falling onto his cheeks. With his last strength, Po Liuhan said, "Since we've parted... please forget... take care..." With that, he had no more strength left. His body lurched forward, his hands still holding Hua Lingxue's legs...
The frost had faded,
the leaves flew, and the trees turned yellow.
The fragrance of books fades with the wind,
life and death are separated by a vast distance…
That night, frost and dew no longer shone, dew withered, Yan Ning sang a mournful song, Hua Ling remained cold, the emperor sang a lament. Lu Ning, with red eyes, looked at the brightly lit palace below, thinking only of one person, but that person was not her destiny. Bian Yun's departure made her joy, pain, smiles, and tears seem so dim. When her illusions were violently shattered, when her worries became reality, she knew that Hua Lingxue felt the same way as her. They both hated this man, but they both loved him. Perhaps in the next life, they could continue their fate. Thinking of this, Lu Ning slashed her wrist with a short sword, and withered away her life amidst petals and frost…
The moment Hua Lingxue jumped off the tower, the man seemed to be right in front of her, smiling and beckoning to her. And so, a smile appeared on her face for the first and last time in her life…
Postscript:
What is love in this world that makes people willing to die for it? The two women who died for love revealed to the world that it wasn't just an ancient rumor, but a poignant tale of the past. Alas, the past is like smoke, so easily dissipated.
The emperor held a grand funeral for Lu Ning and Hua Lingxue. The body of Po Liu Han Yun was taken back to the Xiongnu. The Great Chanyu was filled with grief and rage, as was the Han emperor. Thus, war broke out between the two nations, a war that would last for centuries. Since Lu Ning's death, Zi Chang had never spoken again. He only used the blood of his enemies on the battlefield to mourn his sorrowful emotions. Yan Ning no longer fought. She often watched Ulolanti and her son living like dogs at her feet, and at those times, she would think of Lu Ning's innocent laughter. Every year on the day of Frost's Descent, she would lead Ulolanti and her son to Lu Ning's grave. Finally, she resolved to ignore their pleas and let them be buried with Lu Ning, serving their master in another world. The palace returned to what it was before. Yan Ning stepped on the head of the kneeling mastiff at her feet. The mastiff lowered its head and licked Yan Ning's fair, jade-like foot. The last image there was Yan Ning's alluring yet cold smile...
Years later, Zi Chang died in battle. In one hand he held Mo Xue, who had followed him for decades, and in the other he held the waist token that Lu Ning had given him. He smiled slightly and murmured to himself, "Princess... this humble general... has done his utmost for you..."
In the following decade, Huo Bin was appointed as a supreme general and once led a small force of only two hundred men deep into Xiongnu territory, more than two hundred li away, until... In the sixth year of the Yuan Shou era (117 BC), he fell seriously ill and died with a long howl...
One wave of war dissipated, another rose; the banner of the Han Dynasty fell; Yang Guifei reached out to touch the flowers; Ouyang Xiu picked up his pen and wrote eternally famous verses on the ancient city wall; Temujin's iron cavalry marched south to conquer the Song Dynasty; Zhu Yuanzhang was enlightened and powerful; the Eight Banners raised the banner of the Qing Dynasty; the bugle sounded, and the soldiers charged forward with their guns... Snowflakes fell, and the ancient city was reduced to ruins in the passage of time. Tourists took photos, but among them, who still remembered that era of war and chaos? Who still remembered that earth-shattering separation of life and death? The snowflakes still fall, but the ancient city no longer possesses its former glory…
(P.S.: History forms the core, plot is secondary. This story is set against the backdrop of Emperor Wu of Han's resistance against the Xiongnu. The character Huo Bin was originally Huo Qubing, but his birth and death dates have been altered. Hunxie King and Xiutu King are real historical figures, but their stories are fictional. All other characters are fictional. I solemnly declare that I have no intention of disrespecting history whatsoever. I sincerely apologize for the interruption of updates due to personal reasons. I hope my fellow enthusiasts will understand.)

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Lu Ningxiang 10-14 (Complete)

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