Chapter 103: C103. The Joy of Reconnection.

Chapter 103

The war raged on, relentlessly, until mid-November. When Li Yao took down the formidable Hu Khan, the Hu people had no choice but to fall to their knees and beg for peace.

The victorious news shot straight to the capital, and the Emperor was quick to get his hands on it. Sitting in his study, Emperor Xining ripped through the latest letters, greedily devouring the triumphs that had been piling up over the past six months. A brutal, bloody six-month conflict—over a hundred battles fought, large and small, each one proving that every soldier, every commander, had earned their place in history. The frontlines weren’t just filled with battle-hardened veterans; fresh-faced generals like Li Yao, Xie Lang, Cen Hao, Li Xian, and Zhang Hu—barely twenty, yet already carving their names in blood—were rising to power.

Cao Xun, the Emperor's sharp-as-a-knife uncle and mentor, had seen to it that the Emperor was surrounded by top-tier talent, the brightest of the young warriors. His praise for the old veterans was practically a love letter.

Cao Xun could’ve made a name for himself in the war, leading his own troops to glory, but he only took part in a few key victories back in June.

The rest? He left it to the younger generation, biding his time while strategizing from the shadows of the command tent.

The Emperor’s mind drifted. He set aside the parade of good news and stared out of his window, his thoughts heavier than they should be.

He had always seen his uncle as an exceptional general—impossible to overlook, a true force of nature. But now? Now, a creeping sense of fear had started to settle in his bones. He could feel the weight of it, heavy, suffocating.

The Li family—Li Yong, Li Yao, Li Xian—was a name built on integrity, honor, and an unwavering loyalty to the Emperor. Li Yao was the mind behind the strategies, while Li Xian? He didn’t care for politics or alliances, just hard, brutal combat. Emperor Xining had nothing but trust in them. That trust ran deep—so deep that even the likes of late little emperor, driven by petty grudges, dared not challenge the Li family.

But Cao Xun? He was a different breed altogether. Not just a general. A political powerhouse. The Emperor had watched as his uncle’s grip on military power tightened, his influence on the six ministries growing like an unstoppable force.

Anyone who dared cross him? Disappeared. Vanished. Exiled. His power was absolute. There was no room for opposition in his world.

When Emperor Xining was younger, he believed his uncle’s ambition was for the greater good. He saw him as a protector, a pillar. But now, as the years wore on, that belief had started to crack. Cao Xun was a master at playing the game, manipulating power, and building his empire.

And Emperor Xining? He had different ambitions. He didn’t want to be a puppet, a mere tool for his uncle's schemes. He wanted to be a ruler of renown, respected and feared by all. He wanted the people's admiration, the military's loyalty, and to crush any enemy that dared challenge him. He’d build his empire, not from the shadows, but out in the open, with strength and cunning.

And as the war wore on, his uncle seemed to step aside more and more, allowing others to rise to prominence.

Was this just another strategic play by Cao Xun?

A way to manipulate the Emperor into thinking he had less to fear?

Or was it something else—a game more dangerous than anyone could imagine?

*

In early December, the army stormed back into the city.

It was the first border clash since Emperor Xining had taken the throne—a victory that would shake the entire region. Emperor Xining, riding high on that triumph, left the palace to greet the soldiers with a warm reception, flanked by a crowd of military and civilian officials.

The streets were packed with commoners, all eager to pay their respects to the brave soldiers who had earned their glory.

Over at Zuixianju, Yunzhu and Gu Min had arrived early, bringing their kids along. Seven-year-old Sui Sui sat quietly beside her mother, while four-year-old Li Xin and Cao Bing ran wild in the private room, with Cao Yu keeping a watchful eye over them.

After a good while of playing, Li Xin proudly declared to Cao Bing, "My dad’s better than yours. He’s the one who caught the Hu Khan."

Cao Bing, at only three and having no clue what his father even looked like, fired back, "My dad’s the strongest! He’s the marshal!"

Li Xin smirked, "What good is a marshal? Can he catch the Hu Khan?"

Cao Bing stammered, not knowing how to respond, and turned to his older brother for backup.

Cao Yu, smiling, stepped in with a lesson, "The marshal makes the big calls, commands the whole battlefield. But it’s the generals who lead the troops. They adapt to the ever-changing battlefield and execute those strategies. Both the marshal and the generals hold immense power. But it’s teamwork that wins battles—no one can do it alone."

Li Xin blinked, thought for a second, and then nodded, "Okay, my dad’s the strongest too."

Cao Bing shook his head, stubborn as ever, "No, my dad’s the strongest!"

After a while, Sui Sui, who had been watching the back-and-forth, spoke up with a calm, almost tired sigh, "Why are you two fighting about this? Whether it’s Dad or Uncle, they’re family. Whoever’s the best, it’s all the same. They’re all worthy of praise."

Yunzhu smiled, "That’s a wise answer for someone your age. You shouldn’t be comparing family members like that. They’ve been gone for so long, I’m sure they’re thinking about how we’re all doing."

Sui Sui nodded, eyes soft with longing. "I miss my dad and my uncles."

Gu Min stroked her daughter’s head with affection before turning to Yunzhu. "Your younger brother’s probably planning to settle down once he gets back to Beijing. He’ll be twenty-three after the Chinese New Year."

Yunzhu’s smile deepened. "I heard from my mother that he’s taken a liking to some young lady. She’s waiting for him to return to arrange their meeting."

After sharing a few tender words, the women sipped their tea and nibbled on cakes, while the victorious army finally marched into the city.

The children were peeking out from two different windows, and Yunzhu and Gu Min stood side by side, watching it all unfold.

Gu Min held her fan, a round and delicate thing, while Yunzhu idly twirled hers, resting it beneath her chin, as if savoring the stillness of the moment. A few moments passed as the imperial chariot rolled by, followed closely by a procession of generals. At the head of them all rode Cao Xun, flanked by Li Yao, Xie Lang, Li Xian, and Zhang Hu.

Yunzhu’s eyes couldn’t help but linger on Cao Xun, the sight of him in his full battle gear, sitting high on his horse, untouched by the scars of war, sent a rush of relief through her. He was still as strong and commanding as ever.

As Cao Xun rode past, he noticed a flash of movement from a nearby window, his son's voice calling out to him, a reminder of the family waiting for him at home. He turned, catching a glimpse of his children, but his attention was pulled to the other side, where a young lady held her fan up high, barely revealing her face, the subtle gesture tantalizing.

For a brief moment, he thought about looking away, but instead, his gaze lingered, curiosity gnawing at him. If she was playing some kind of game, he mused, she might drop her fan, but she didn’t. Not until his horse had moved completely past Zuixianju did she make a move. Her silence left him intrigued.

The onlookers on the street buzzed with speculation, whispering amongst themselves about the exchange, “Who is he looking at so intently?”

“The Duchess, of course. The young master called out to his father. She must be there.”

“He’s nearly forty, yet still so in sync. Why no exchange of glances? They must be waiting until he gets home.”

Cao Xun stiffened, the unspoken tension in the air pressing against him. Li Yao chuckled, “Careful, if you’re distracted by such thoughts, maybe you should stay off the battlefield next time.”

Cao Xun stayed silent, but Li Xian, ever the cautious one, muttered, “Watch your words. There are ears everywhere.”

Back at Zuixianju, Gu Min couldn’t help but tease Yunzhu. “You knew he’d look for you, yet you avoided his gaze. Why?”

Yunzhu gave a sly, almost unreadable smile. She didn’t need to say anything—if he truly wanted to see her, he would. He could keep staring for as long as he liked, but if he wanted something more, he’d have to hurry home himself.

Though Cao Xun longed to be with his family, duty called. Emperor Xining hosted a banquet to celebrate their recent victory over the Hu, and there was no escaping the night’s obligations, no matter how eager he was to reunite with his wife and children.

At the banquet, Emperor Xining raised his cup, praising Cao Xun for his strategic brilliance, “Uncle, your expertise led us to victory against the Hu. I raise my glass to you!”

Cao Xun, ever the modest warrior, lowered his head in humility, “Your Majesty, this victory belongs to you. Your wise leadership has made Great Xia strong. It is your governance and care for our people that have brought us together. The honor is yours, Majesty.”

The generals cheered, echoing the Emperor’s praise. Even the Emperor, despite his efforts to remain humble, couldn’t hide the smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

The grand banquet stretched on for a full hour, lingering like a forbidden desire, until Emperor Xining, in his generosity, finally dismissed everyone, leaving Cao Xun, Li Yao, and Li Xian alone. His unspoken favor was clear—he trusted his uncle and the Li family enough to grant them this moment of privacy.

As the conversation shifted to the recent war, Emperor Xining couldn't ignore the whispers of the capital, rumors spreading like wildfire just before the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Cao Xun’s face hardened, his loyalty clear as he dropped to his knees, voice steady, "Let the heavens witness my loyalty to you, Emperor. My devotion will never falter."

Emperor Xining reached down to pull him up, a smile playing on his lips as he spoke softly, yet with command, "No need for such formality, Uncle. Even Aunt knows this is a devious plot spun by the Hu people. I’ve already ordered the arrest of those responsible for spreading the lies."

Cao Xun’s confusion deepened, his gaze shifting to Li Yao, whose sharp eyes met his. With a calm that only masked his alertness, Li Yao asked, "What about then?"

Emperor Xining, with an air of composure, explained the quiet exchange between Yunzhu and Concubine Hui. His voice was low, almost coaxing.

Li Yao's laugh rang out, proud and confident, "My grandfather taught me the art of war from a young age, and my sister sat beside me, learning every trick in the book. She’s no fool. Deceiving the Emperor? Impossible."

Li Xian, his expression dark and intense, added, "When the ruler and his ministers are at odds, they bring about their own downfall. But when they are united, nothing can break their power."

Emperor Xining’s eyes locked with his, a silent agreement between them. "That's why I won’t let myself be misled by traitors. I trust you, and I know you’ll stand by me as we build a powerful and prosperous future for Great Xia."

The three generals dropped to their knees in perfect unison, their voices unwavering as they declared, "We will serve you without question, without hesitation."

*

After leaving the palace, Li Yao let out a heavy sigh, as if he was carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.

Cao Xun caught a quick glance at him, but Li Yao was so lost in his thoughts that he didn’t notice, raising his arm and taking in the intoxicating blend of dust and alcohol that still lingered from the banquet.

He thought about his wife back at home. For a moment, a surge of irritation hit him, but that quickly turned to a sly smile. He slapped Cao Xun on the back and said, “Let’s get going. You should head home too; Yunzhu and the kids are waiting for you.”

Cao Xun smiled, nodded, and promised to bring his family over to visit the next day.

As they rode, Cao Xun remained composed, leisurely making his way out of the imperial city. But once he reached the alley near Dingguo's mansion, his pace quickened, urgency taking over.

At the mansion, Cao Yu and his younger brother were eagerly waiting for their father’s return. When they heard the news, they scrambled to greet him.

Meanwhile, Yunzhu, watching her kids bounce with excitement, walked gracefully toward the front yard. As she turned the corner, her eyes fell on her husband—his tall, imposing figure in that magnificent armor, holding their child in his arms. He walked with purpose, dominating the space as he entered the courtyard.

Her breath caught in her throat at the sight of him. His presence hit her like a rush of heat, but the children’s loud enthusiasm helped ground her.

"Did the banquet leave you hungry?" she asked, her voice soft but laced with something more. "Shall I get something ready for you?"

Cao Xun gave her a knowing smile, his gaze lingering on her flushed cheeks. "If you're not hungry," he said smoothly, "have them prepare the bath. It’s a damn hassle trying to wash up after all this."

Yunzhu nodded ever so slightly to Lian Qiao, signaling her to take care of the arrangements.

The family moved into the main room. Cao Bing and Cao Yu stayed close to their father, while Yunzhu watched them with a smile, admiring how patiently Cao Xun answered their endless questions. It was a heartwarming scene that softened the tension in her chest, making her heart swell with affection for them all.

About half an hour later, Cao Bing yawned, stretching out tiredly.

Cao Xun turned to his eldest son and said, “Take your brother to bed. We’ll talk more once you wake up after your nap.”

Cao Yu nodded obediently and led his brother away.

Yunzhu smiled at the sight of them leaving the hall. But when she turned back to Cao Xun, she was met with that look—a sharp, smoldering gaze that seemed to pierce right through her. Her pulse raced, and she felt suddenly weak in the knees.

She stood up quickly, trying to regain control, and said, "The bath should be ready. You should freshen up."

She turned to leave, but the tension between them still crackled, too powerful to ignore. It clung to her like the air before a storm.

Then, suddenly, she heard his hurried footsteps behind her. Before she could react, Cao Xun scooped her up effortlessly, his grip like iron, and turned toward the bathroom.

Yunzhu tried to fight it, pushing against him with a defiant hiss. “It’s filthy, let me down!”

But as expected, he ignored her protests, his determination too strong. In no time, he placed her onto the bed in the adjoining room.

She sat up quickly, her eyes fixed on him as he stripped away his heavy armor, revealing the simple white tunic beneath.

Biting her lip, she lowered her gaze, the words slipping out with a sultry edge. “Taking it off won’t change anything. Wait until you’ve cleaned up.”

Cao Xun flashed her a teasing smile, his gaze holding hers with an intensity that spoke of nothing but hunger. “What’s the harm in holding you, hmm? This armor’s just in the way. Let me get rid of it.”

Her glare was sharp, but it only made him laugh as he tossed the armor aside carelessly. Without missing a beat, he pulled her into his arms, the strength in his body radiating against hers.

His broad shoulders pressed against her, his muscular arms enveloping her, giving off heat that seeped into her skin even through their clothes. She melted into him instantly, too weak to resist, her head resting on his shoulder.

With a slow, deliberate movement, Cao Xun leaned in, his lips brushing against her earlobe, a playful yet commanding nip that left her shivering. “Why didn’t you show yourself to me when I came into the city?”

Yunzhu shuddered again, but said nothing, a mix of defiance and desire in her eyes.

Cao Xun’s gaze darkened as he took a deep breath, his hands suddenly undressing her, half of her clothing discarded in a single motion. If she thought she could tease him without consequence, she was about to learn the hard way. The chase had begun, and he wasn’t letting her go.