Yu Jin Chang An (With Jin's Chang'An)

Chapter 27

In March, early spring arrived in the northern frontier, and the harsh winter of ice and snow had passed. Green grass and tender shoots emerged from the remnants of the wilderness snow.

After the quiet period following the Snow Festival, Lu City gradually became lively again.

In the cold winter months, the Western Barbarians attempted to attack Lu City at least ten times. Fortunately, they were blessed by the heavens. In the battle of early winter, they lost two major generals, severely damaging their morale. When they attempted to attack again, they faced difficulties in supplying provisions, making it impossible for the Western Barbarian army to advance. Although there were minor skirmishes from time to time, it was not difficult for Li Shuang to handle.

After several intermittent battles, the three months had passed relatively peacefully.

The Western Barbarians completely withdrew their troops to their capital, no longer causing trouble on the border of Great Jin. This harsher-than-usual winter brought concerns to the internal situation of the Western Barbarian country. With the arrival of spring, they needed to recuperate, while other tribes outside the border were also struggling. Throughout the northern frontier, Lu City remained strong. In the following three years, it was unlikely that any external enemies would dare to invade again.

As spring approached, one piece of good news after another began to arrive in succession.

Li Shuang descended from the city tower and had just returned to her tent when an urgent letter was delivered. After reading the letter, she looked out at the sky beyond the camp and let out a long sigh of relief.

"The situation in the capital has stabilized, and the Crown Prince now holds significant power."

With this letter arriving in the northern frontier, it meant that the new emperor had ascended the throne at least half a month ago. Sima Yang had transformed from the Crown Prince to His Majesty. The memory of the young man whom she had once made bleed upon their first meeting was now completely erased from her mind. From now on, all that remained would be a face growing increasingly stern, one that even dared not to be looked directly at.

But this was for the best.

Upon hearing Li Shuang's words, Qin Lan nodded respectfully, "Congratulations, General." This was indeed cause for celebration. With Sima Yang's ascension, the status of the Grand General's Manor would likely rise even further. The glory of the family would be the envy of the world.

"There is joy, but there are also less joyful matters." As Li Shuang spread out a piece of paper on the table, she spoke to Qin Lan, "Father has sent word that the situation in the frontier has been settled, and he wishes me to return to the capital to pay respects to the new emperor."

Qin Lan furrowed his brow slightly.

The old general had always been eager to see his daughter but had never actively asked her to return to the capital. He had always respected Li Shuang's own wishes. However, with the new emperor ascending the throne and requesting Li Shuang's return, while it made sense on the surface, the underlying implications were worth pondering. After all, Sima Yang's intentions towards Li Shuang were clear...

Qin Lan still vividly remembered the intense emotions in Sima Yang's eyes when they found Li Shuang on the brink of death in that cave three months ago, and they brought her back.

Later, although Sima Yang hurriedly returned to the capital due to urgent matters, his final words were to ensure the safety of Li Shuang. Qin Lan understood the expression of the Crown Prince at that time; in his sharp eagle-like eyes, it seemed like he was making a firm vow. He did not want to lose Li Shuang again. So, he emphasized: