Rebirth of a Star General Chapter 232

Chapter 232: Sword Duel

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Three days later, Emperor Wenxuan hosted a banquet at the Tianxing Terrace.

Tianxing Terrace was located on a high platform in front of the palace, with the sacrificial platform ahead. When the Wutuo envoys led by Maningbu entered the capital, His Majesty agreed to the compensation and peace proposal, showcasing the generosity of the Great Wei monarch and, at the same time, boosting the prestige of the Great Wei.

In this life and the previous one, it was the first time for He Yan to attend such an event. Early in the morning, she changed into an official uniform with a red base and floral patterns, and a black belt in the middle. Her stature was not as tall as a man’s, and the official uniform had some extra room, but because of her upright posture, it looked somewhat elegant.

Now that everyone in the court knew she was a woman, there was no need to disguise as a man. Qingmei lightly drew her eyebrows, applied a thin layer of powder, and she didn’t use any lipstick as her lips were naturally rosy. Her long hair was tied into a ponytail at the back of her head, looking neat.

Looking at the reflection of the woman in the mirror, elegant and graceful, neither overly disguised as a man nor excessively delicate, this attire seemed to be the most pleasing she had seen since her rebirth.

He Yan picked up the tea on the table and took a sip. “It’s about time. I’ll leave first.”

Qingmei asked, “Does Miss really not want this servant to accompany you?”

“I’m not attending a banquet, so why bring you along?” He Yan chuckled. “Just wait for me at the mansion.”

She left and got into the carriage alone.

Today, Xiao Jue did not come to pick her up. Although they were about to get married soon, before officially becoming husband and wife, He Yan, in the identity of Wuan Marquis, needed to maintain a clear distinction between official and private matters. On such occasions, it was better not to be too casual.

There was no servant by her side, and it was quite rare for someone to go to the Tianxing Terrace alone. The carriage had been arranged since yesterday, and when she arrived near Tianxing Terrace, He Yan got off the carriage and walked towards Tianxing Terrace alone.

Several officials had already arrived, and those who recognized each other exchanged pleasantries. He Yan didn’t know many people, and as she stood there, suddenly an excited voice came, “Little Sister He!”

He Yan was taken aback and turned around to see Lin Shuanghe running towards her.

He was dressed neatly today, and if he didn’t speak, he looked like a talented young man in the court. He Yan wondered, “Brother Lin, why are you here? Wasn’t it said that only officials could be here…”

“My grandfather and father are here,” Lin Shuanghe said indifferently. “Empress Dowager likes me, so she allowed me to join in the fun.”

She understood now; Lin Young Master had entered through the back door.

Lin Shuanghe looked He Yan up and down, his eyes sparkling. “Little Sister He, it’s my first time seeing you in an official uniform. It looks great! Our Huaijin is really lucky to have such a beautiful wife.”

Every time this person praised, it just came naturally, regardless of whether others could accept it or not. He Yan interrupted his flattery, “It’s been a while since I’ve seen Brother Lin. What have you been busy with?”

“Stop talking about it,” Lin Shuanghe said with a bitter face. “I’ve only been away from Shuojing for a year and a half, and the women looking for me have piled up. Since I came back, I’ve been diagnosing illnesses every day. Haven’t you noticed that I’ve lost weight?”

He Yan didn’t notice his worn-out appearance and said, “I haven’t. If you don’t want to see patients, just close your door. Why force yourself like this?”

“They are all women,” Lin Shuanghe spoke seriously. “A gentleman should pity and cherish fragrant jade.”

He Yan remained silent for a moment before saying, “So that’s how it is. Brother Lin, you’ve been so busy that you forgot about helping me find a house.”

Lin Shuanghe was momentarily stunned, finally recalling the matter he had cast aside long ago, and looked at He Yan strangely. “But aren’t you and Huaijin getting married on the tenth day of the lunar new year? Why buy a house again?”

“It’s not for me to live in.” He Yan sighed. “I want my father and Yunsheng to switch houses. In the past, I was too poor to do anything, but now that I have an official position, the silver that Huaijin gave me is enough to build a new house in the capital. It may not be as luxurious as those wealthy families, but it’s much better than the current one. I’ve decided to treat it as borrowing from Huaijin. After my salary is paid a year later, I’ll repay him.”

“So, it’s for uncle and your younger brother to live in,” Lin Shuanghe breathed a sigh of relief, patting He Yan’s shoulder. “Rest assured, leave this matter to me, and I guarantee to handle it properly for you!”

“Now, you’re busy with official matters and have no time to consider this, right?”

“Cough, there is some free time. I can squeeze some in.”

“You really deliberately neglected to help me find a house before.”

“Little Sister He, how could you think of me like that?”

As they chatted and laughed, Lin Shuanghe suddenly waved behind He Yan. “Huaijin!”

He Yan turned her head to see Huaijin and Xiao Jing approaching from the other side.

The two brothers were outstanding in appearance, standing out among the young officials like cranes among a flock of chickens. As they approached, He Yan and Xiao Jing bowed, and Xiao Jing smiled, “Miss He, this is my first time accompanying a female official to the Tianxing Terrace. Miss He’s heroic and elegant bearing is truly remarkable.”

He Yan exchanged pleasantries, and Lin Shuanghe touched his chin. After observing He Yan and Xiao Jue for a while, he said, “I have to say, you two really look well-matched.”

He Yan looked at Xiao Jue, who was also dressed in official attire today. Coincidentally, the embroidered round flowers on his dark blue official robe happened to match those on her own official attire. The waist was also tied with a sash, enhancing his noble and handsome demeanor.

“Little Sister He,” Lin Shuanghe said, “you know, if you get a few more promotions in your official rank, you can go to court together with Huaijin in the future. It’s really convenient. In the entire Great Wei, a couple like you is a rare sight.”

“Miss He is not married yet,” Xiao Jing said softly, “Young Master Lin, please be cautious in your words. If others hear, it may harm Miss He’s reputation.”

He Yan looked up at Xiao Jing. People say that Eldest Young Master Xiao is a gentle and courteous gentleman, and now she has witnessed it. He even cares about such small matters. However, when he said it, it didn’t seem old-fashioned; instead, it felt considerate. No wonder before this, Song Taotao wanted to be Xiao Jue’s sister-in-law. After all, someone like Xiao Jing is hard to find even if you search the entire Great Wei.

Lost in thought, she suddenly found someone blocking her view of Xiao Jing without a sound. He Yan raised her head and met Xiao Jue’s somewhat displeased gaze.

He seemed to be quite protective of his big brother. He Yan speculated, could he be wary of me trying to pursue Xiao Jing?

At this moment, someone called Lin Shuanghe’s name ahead. It was probably Lin Shuanghe’s friend, so he went in that direction. Xiao Jing also took a few steps forward to chat with his colleagues.

He Yan finally had some time with Xiao Jue. She approached Xiao Jue, rolled up her sleeves, and asked, “How about it? This is a newly issued official robe. I’m wearing it for the first time today. Does it look elegant and imposing?”

The sun shone on the girl’s face, seemingly making her fine eyelashes distinct. Her eyes were bright and spirited, and her smiling appearance still carried a bit of pure youthful spirit. The red official robe, however, added a touch of dignified elegance, making her different from all other women—a unique and heroic demeanor.

Among millions of women in the world, she stood out.

Xiao Jue turned sideways, avoiding eye contact.

Seeing him like this, He Yan retracted her sleeves and moved closer, asking, “Is it true?”

“I don’t see any imposing aura,” Xiao Jue couldn’t resist her teasing. He lowered his head to look at her, a hint of a smile flashed in his eyes, and his lips curled slightly, deliberately teasing her, “But there’s a constant stream of foolishness oozing out.”

He Yan gritted her teeth, “You, how can’t you say a single good thing?” She pretended to turn away, but unexpectedly, when she turned around, she bumped into someone and almost fell into their arms.

After steadying herself, Chu Zhao stood in front of her and looked at her. “Miss He.”

“… Fourth Young Master Chu.”

Xiao Jue pulled He Yan back to his side, and Chu Zhao first glanced at Xiao Jue, then his gaze fell on He Yan. Still with a familiar gentle smile, he said, “Miss He’s happy event, I’ve already heard about it. I congratulate the two of you in advance on your wedding.”

“Thank you, thank you,” He Yan smiled, “I also wish Fourth Young Master and Miss Xu a happy marriage.”

Hearing these words, his gaze trembled slightly, as if feeling a bit melancholic. Nevertheless, he still politely bowed to He Yan before moving forward.

Watching his departing figure, He Yan felt a peculiar desolation. Unable to resist, she said to Xiao Jue beside her, “Xiao Jue, don’t you think Fourth Young Master Chu is actually quite pitiful?”

Xiao Jue replied coldly, “I don’t think so.”

“Why not? I feel like he…” He Yan whispered, “Maybe he doesn’t really like that Miss Xu. Eyes can’t lie; his gaze seemed off. When it comes to the marriage, there’s no joy, almost like he’s sad.”

“You observe quite carefully.”

“After all, I’ve been blind once before. Now, when looking at people, I naturally have to be more careful… Unfortunately, the imperial edict has been issued, and he can only do so. What do you think about him… hey?” He Yan turned around and saw that Xiao Jue had already walked some distance ahead. She hurriedly caught up, saying, “Xiao Jue, wait for me!”

After a while.

“Xiao Jue, are you angry?”

“No.”

…

The officials stood in formation on the square of the Tianxing Terrace.

Due to He Yan’s official position, she couldn’t stand with Xiao Jue yet. However, among the group she was in, most considered her as Xiao Jue’s soon-to-be-married fiancée, so they dared not treat her poorly. Also, because she was petite, they were afraid she might not see the stage clearly, so they intentionally left the first row for He Yan.

He Yan stood at the front, gazing at the emperor on the stage.

On the high seat, Emperor Wenxuan smiled as he looked at the officials below.

The officials were dressed in official robes, standing neatly, presenting an impressive appearance. It was said that in the mountainous country of Wutuo, with few plains and palaces less than half the size of Great Wei’s palaces, the ceremonies were quite humble.

As he grew older, Emperor Wenxuan, though not achieving much in politics, hoped to leave behind one or two commendable deeds. Unfortunately, over the years, he hadn’t. Emperors of old aimed either for lasting historical fame or infamy. He knew he couldn’t achieve the former, and he didn’t have the courage to face the spit of future generations for the latter. Since his ascension, he had never engaged in major construction projects or established grand temples. Only now, with the feast on the Tianxing Terrace, did he regain some sense of pride as an emperor.

Several princes sat on one side. Fifth Prince Guangji was still young, and when he saw the delicious pastries, he wanted to grab one. However, he was stopped by Guangshuo, who whispered, “Fifth Brother, behave. You represent the dignity of Great Wei.”

Guangji pouted but sat obediently, refraining from taking the pastry.

Guangyan glanced at the two of them, a look of disdain in his eyes. Since Emperor Wenxuan hosted a feast on the Tianxing Terrace, it expressed the sincerity of accepting Wutuo’s request for peace. The establishment of a market could be postponed, and he would slowly plan for it later. As long as he could get Wutuo’s assistance and eliminate Xiao Huaijin, Fourth Prince, and that vile Consort Lan, they would eventually be his prisoners.

He was just too eager to ascend to that position.

Wutuo’s envoy, Maningbu, stepped forward, knelt before Emperor Wenxuan, and performed a grand ceremony. A string of flattering words came out of his mouth, praising the emperor’s benevolence and broad-mindedness, expressing amazement at the prosperity and magnificence of Great Wei. Wutuo was willing to establish friendly relations with Great Wei, even regarding Great Wei with great respect.

Emperor Wenxuan was pleased with the straightforward praise.

Among the officials below, some were proud like the Crown Prince, while others, like Wei Xuanzhang, showed their indignation on their faces. Most, however, concealed their anger, as people said that the current Great Wei court was no longer surnamed Song but surnamed Xu. This was already accepted, but allowing foreigners to openly come to the Tianxing Terrace—what kind of situation had Great Wei come to?

Among the military officials, He Rufei stood at the forefront, looking relaxed, without any hatred in his gaze towards the Wutuo people. On the other hand, Yan He appeared furious, his hands clenched into fists. If not for being on the Tianxing Terrace and the presence of the emperor, he might have rushed up and beaten Maningbu.

Xiao Jue stood beside him, and Yan He couldn’t help but whisper, “What nonsense is this short guy talking about? Who does he think he’s fooling? Wutuo wants to be friends with Great Wei? I’d rather go to Wutuo and kill ten thousand of their people. And talking about Great Wei being willing to be friends with Wutuo, will their ruler believe that?”

Seeing Xiao Jue’s silence, Yan He became more irritated and sarcastically said, “Aren’t you General Fengyun? Why are you just watching the Wutuo people act arrogantly on the Tianxing Terrace?”

Xiao Jue calmly spoke, “Aren’t you Gui De Zhonglang General? If you want to teach them a lesson, why don’t you go yourself?”

Yan He was speechless, snorted, and stopped talking.

On the other side, Emperor Wenxuan accepted the flattery and gifts from Wutuo’s envoy. Maningbu then said, “The warriors of Wutuo are best at wrestling. On normal occasions, we hold wrestling competitions at ceremonial banquets. Today, we would like to perform for Your Majesty.”

Yan He commented, “Showing off their skills at the wrong place.”

In fact, Emperor Wenxuan himself didn’t particularly like these sword and spear performances. Since he ascended to the throne, the court had favored literature over military affairs. However, since it was proposed by Wutuo’s envoy, and to demonstrate Great Wei’s magnanimity, he couldn’t refuse. Thus, he waved his hand casually and said, “Granted.”

Maningbu turned back and walked out two burly men from the group of Wutuo envoys. These two men appeared taller and more robust compared to the generally shorter stature of the Wutuo people, standing out with their exceptionally tall and strong figures. Their hair was tied into numerous thin braids behind their heads.

Maningbu said, “Your Majesty, these are the two best warriors of Wutuo, Nada Duo and Hu Yunmu. They are willing to demonstrate their skills for Your Majesty.”

The two Wutuo men walked to the central space of the square, removed their outer garments, and, despite the cold weather, wrestled bare-chested. They embraced each other and began wrestling.

He Yan stood among the officials, hearing whispers behind her from fellow officials, “Indeed, it’s a barbaric land. The way they embrace each other is so uncouth, highly inappropriate.”

He Yan didn’t find it inappropriate; she thought that wrestling was more about skill than brute strength. While others saw them struggling to bring each other down, there were intricacies involved, such as footwork, throws, mindset, and speed. These two Wutuo men were indeed formidable.

The wrestling match took a long time before a winner was determined. The Great Wei officials, including the emperor, found the match rather boring, and their applause after the match seemed forced.

Emperor Wenxuan rewarded these two warriors with a silver plate each. After thanking Maningbu, he spoke, “I’ve heard that the Great Wei has many talents and warriors abound, far more than the Wutuo Kingdom. Since the lords are all present today, could Your Majesty kindly grant us the favor of letting the Wutuo warriors broaden their horizons?”

Is this a challenge?

Emperor Wenxuan’s heart stirred, suddenly feeling a bit excited.

In the historical records of the past, there was a mention that when a certain country hosted foreign envoys, the princess of the envoy once provocatively spoke, but was harshly humiliated by the daughter of a military commander using archery skills. Although it’s unknown whether it was true or false, this opportunity for a face-off delivered right to their doorstep was truly splendid.

The Great Wei is vast and populous, and with so many talents gathered in the square today, the two Wutuo individuals should be able to handle it no matter what. Moreover, the people of Great Wei are slim and elegant, compared to those barbarians, they look pleasing to the eye. For example, Flying Phoenix General and General Fengyun are both outstandingly handsome men. In a fight, they can definitely make the Wutuo people feel ashamed.

Thinking of this, Emperor Wenxuan smiled and said, “This is not difficult. The men of Great Wei never back down. If you choose a warrior among the military, they will surely accept the challenge.”

Emperor Wenxuan is not worried that the military officers would lose to the Wutuo people. First, these two Wutuo individuals didn’t even have weapons just now, indicating a lack of skill. Second, if the Wutuo people were truly smart, they wouldn’t dare to win in front of everyone’s eyes.

After all, the Wutuo people still want to request the opening of a market in Great Wei.

Maningbu smiled and said, “I heard that Your Majesty previously granted the title of the first female marquis to someone in Great Wei.”

There was a moment of surprise among the people present.

Emperor Wenxuan also paused for a moment and said, “That’s correct.”

“That female marquis, among our Wutuo people, I’ve also heard of her reputation. It’s said that she accompanied General Fengyun to the battlefield and displayed great bravery and intelligence. Did she participate today?”

Emperor Wenxuan furrowed his brow slightly. He never expected that when Maningbu chose someone, he would actually pick He Yan. In a court full of civil and military officials, the Wutuo people chose a woman. Though he had heard of He Yan’s achievements on the battlefield, having personally witnessed her, she was just a small and delicate woman compared to the two Wutuo individuals from earlier, like a lamb among bears.

“But she’s a woman.”

“But not an ordinary woman.” Maningbu smiled and said, “In our Wutuo country, there are women skilled in martial arts, but none have entered the court as officials. Since she was brought along by General Fengyun, she must be different from ordinary women. Your Majesty,” he lowered his body, “please let that female marquis have a match with our Wutuo warriors.”

Guangshuo shook his head lightly. These Wutuo people were clearly bullying women, or perhaps settling personal grudges. But Guangshuo knew his father’s temperament well; saving face was of utmost importance. Once he agreed, he wouldn’t go back on his word.

Emperor Wenxuan remained silent for a moment and said, “Marquis Wuan.”

He Yan stepped forward and saluted, saying, “I’m here.”

“Compete with their warriors.”

The field fell silent for a moment, then whispers gradually emerged.

Lin Shuanghe anxiously asked his father Lin Mu, “Dad, how can we let a woman participate in the martial arts competition?”

“Shut up.”

Xiao Jing also looked worried, and Yan He poked Xiao Jue on the side, unable to help but say, “Hey, your wife is being pushed to the front line, and you’re still so calm? Xiao Huaijin, you’re really heartless.”

Xiao Jue ignored him.

He Yan stood up and did not immediately respond to the emperor’s words. Instead, she looked at Maningbu and asked, “Envoy Maningbu, what do you think of the two famous generals in Great Wei?”

Maningbu looked at the woman in front of him. Before coming to Great Wei, He Yan’s name had already spread in the Wutuo country. This woman fought side by side with Xiao Jue in Jiyang City, and during the Battle of Rundu City, she alone caused Huyate to suffer. Even the spy sent into Liangzhou Garrison was initially discovered by her. Xiao Huaijin is undoubtedly formidable, but this woman who emerged out of nowhere is also not simple.

She is like Flying Phoenix General from the past, always having the ability to turn the tide. Flying Phoenix General, who was like a soaring eagle, has now had his wings broken, and now another formidable opponent for Wutuo seems to be emerging.

Even if she is just a woman.

A woman who can kill on the battlefield is no longer just a woman. In some respects, she has the qualifications to compete with men.

Maningbu said, “Generals Fengyun and Flying Phoenix General are both admired heroes. They are talents that appear once in a hundred, no, a thousand years.”

“It’s a coincidence; I also think so.” He Yan smiled slightly. “Just as Wutuo warriors come to Great Wei and want to exchange skills with heroes, I also have heroes I admire. If you just want to see my skills, there’s no need to compete with me, Lord Maningbu,” she said, “I excel in swordsmanship. If it’s about wrestling, I can’t fully demonstrate my strength. Only in swordsmanship. However, if we are to compete in swordsmanship, I won’t compete with you.”

Emperor Wenxuan’s eyes brightened.

Does He Yan mean she wants to compete with Xiao Jue? This is good; she and Xiao Jue are about to become husband and wife. If she wins, it can be said that Xiao Jue gave in to her. If she loses, it’s still losing to their own people, and it won’t disgrace Great Wei’s face.

Thinking of this, Emperor Wenxuan immediately spoke, “I agree. We want to see Marquis Wuan’s skills, so let Marquis Wuan compete in her specialty. Marquis Wuan, with whom would you like to compete in swordsmanship?”

The people who were holding their breath for He Yan at the scene simultaneously breathed a sigh of relief. By saying this, Emperor Wenxuan was giving He Yan a way out. Those officials who were there to watch the excitement were a bit disappointed; naturally, He Yan would choose Xiao Jue. Between husband and wife, they could come up with any result.

Just when everyone thought this way, He Yan walked to the group of military officers. She didn’t stop by Xiao Jue’s side but continued to walk until she reached the front of Flying Phoenix General before looking at the person in front of her.

“Flying Phoenix General,” her smile was brilliant, with a hint of barely noticeable irony, “I’d like to see your sword.”

——Side Note——-

Jiaojiao: Bring me on stage? Where’s my appearance fee?”

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