One

When I saw that group of people, I realized they were a pack of true wolves. Wolves! Do you understand? A tremor passed through Xudahan's voice, "Wolves would rather kill their weak kind than offer a helping hand. The wolf pack only follows the rule of strength. Our grandfather Menglehuoer still holds absolute power in the northern region through courage and slaughter. So, if we accept the Northern Capital offered to us by the northern region and become their puppets, do you think Menglehuoer or Huduluhan would regard us highly? Wouldn't they tear us apart and devour us like other prey?"

Shan Bikong's nonchalant words stirred a surge of anger within Xu Da Han. His gaze sharpened, and his voice grew low, "Mr. Shan Bikong, do not forget that the Qingyang faction has a reliable ally, the Donglu Chun Kingdom. The Chun Kingdom has placed a significant bet on the Qingyang faction, and Marquis Liang Qiuhou of the Chun Kingdom will not abandon their interests here. We have already sent out messages, and the Chun Kingdom's army may be on its way. If Beidu City can hold out until the Chun Kingdom's reinforcements arrive, then at that time, the thirty years of accumulation in Shobei will be exhausted, and it will be Shobei that faces annihilation"

Xuda Khan was completely stunned

He tightly closed his eyes, tilted his head back, allowing the cold snowflakes to hit his face, and opened his mouth wide to let the frigid wind fill his chest... Outside the wind and snow, the giant wolves roared, the women were frenzied, and the men laughed heartily

As an envoy of Qingyang, go to the camp of the Shuo Bei people to negotiate with them

Shan Bi Kong smiled meaningfully and said, "Young Master, you are the son of the Wolf Lord, but you do not truly understand him. An old man, who has wandered the snowfields for thirty years, living to an age that should have been his end, still insists on returning to this battlefield. What do you think is the reason for that?"

Xuda Khan was taken aback and hurriedly knelt down

Shan Bi Kong let out a low sigh and sat down beside Xu Da Han. "Third Prince, I am confident that I understand you. You are very intelligent, but not adept at concealing yourself. If you truly have no other intentions and are here to negotiate peace on behalf of the Qingyang Great Lord with the Shuo North, then you should not be sitting here alone. Instead, you should have the Fourth Prince and your attendants standing beside you. They would hear every word of our conversation and, upon returning, would prove your loyalty to the Great Lord. However, you did not do this. When we invited you to enter this tent alone to rest, you did not insist." You are very intelligent, but not adept at concealing yourself. If you truly have no other intentions and are here to negotiate peace on behalf of the Qingyang Great Lord with the Shuo North, then you should not be sitting here alone. Instead, you should have the Fourth Prince and your attendants standing beside you. They would hear every word of our conversation and, upon returning, would prove your loyalty to the Great Lord. However, you did not do this. When we invited you to enter this tent alone to rest, you did not insist.

As he approached the Golden Tent Gate, he hesitated for a moment, turned around, and said, "Your Majesty, I have only one question... Gui Mu and I are brothers born of the same mother, both of us share the bloodline of Shuo Bei. Are you truly not worried that once we leave the city, we may never return?"

I am speaking of what the Golden King and the Wolf Lord told me, but I do not believe it

Gui Mu immediately understood the situation and fell silent, while the two brothers each turned over and mounted their horses, departing side by side over the snow.

"All support will be handed over to you." Shan Bikong nodded slightly, "But do not think, Young Master, that we intend to join forces with you to seize your father's power. In fact, I have asked the Wolf Lord, and as long as we take the Northern Capital, he will transfer all power in the Northern Region to you."

Indeed, for the people of Qingyang, you are a mongrel with the blood of the North, lowly, dangerous, and at your core, a wolf. They certainly would not entrust power to you. Are they waiting for you to turn around and bite their throats?" Khuduluhan's large hand moved over Xuda Khan's shoulder, the slow and powerful pressure allowing him to relax completely. The Golden King likely learned this technique from his women, serving Xuda Khan as a base slave serves a young master. Are they waiting for you to turn around and bite their throats?" Khuduluhan's large hand moved over Xuda Khan's shoulder, the slow and powerful pressure allowing him to relax completely. The Golden King likely learned this technique from his women, serving Xuda Khan as a base slave serves a young master

"Are you blaming me? Xuda Khan, I sent you as an envoy to negotiate, yet you were insulted by your uncle," Bimogan said in a low voice, "I did not expect it to turn out this way"

If that is truly the case, then you should stay in the northern part of Shuo. "Bimogan said softly, "You are all my brothers. If you have the chance to survive, it is better than staying here to accompany me in waiting for death... Although I will call you traitors, I will not blame you in my heart... Go ahead.

As he approached the entrance of the tent, he heard a low sigh coming from behind. Bi Mogan said, "Xuda Khan, I can roughly understand why you were so determined to fight for the position of the great lord back then. If I were you, I would probably resort to any means necessary as well"

"Get up, get up," Bi Moguan waved his hand, "but now I can only turn to you for help. If you do not assist me, the Northern Capital will truly be finished."

In the decades following Emperor Fengyan's northern expedition against the barbarians, countless young barbarians yearned for revenge, dreaming of sending their cavalry across the sea to trample the lands of the Eastern Lands. Khagan Xuda had also been captivated by discussions of this dream with the youth. However, he soon realized that the challenges involved were far beyond what could be overcome in one or two generations. The first major obstacle was the sea. Before the Fengyan Dynasty, the Eastern Lands had weak maritime defenses, and their shipbuilding technology was only slightly ahead of that of the barbarians. But during the Fengyan Dynasty, merchants from Wanzhou crossed the sea to cultivate the western lands, and their shipbuilding technology advanced rapidly. The Wanzhou shipyards were capable of producing heavy warships like the "Lion Gate Battle Ship," which had a deep draft and could carry many people. Subsequently, the Eastern Lands acquired the technology for the Ningzhou longship from the Yu people, which was lighter and more agile, making it easier to maneuver. The barbarians lacked sufficient shipbuilders, and Hanzhou did not produce the timber needed for large ships, so no matter how strong the barbarian cavalry was, it was of no use; for their warhorses to gallop, they first needed to disembark.

Power?" Xuda Khan abruptly turned his head, gazing directly into Hudu Lu Khan's eyes, and slowly repeated this word

"The heir is a person who has no taboos when it comes to doing things," said Shan Bikong

Gift? Hudu Luhan was taken aback.

Moreover, only the brothers Xuda Khan and Guimu were present, looking at each other, still unaware of why they had been summoned so suddenly on such a deep night. Since Bimogan's return, he had not summoned anyone, and the nobles had lost interest in convening in the tent to discuss matters.

He remembered his mother, the beautiful woman who loved to wear red. She would proudly say, "Do not listen to those people talking nonsense; our blood from the North is as noble as that of the Qingyang!" As the Grand Empress, no one dared to refute her, but she died during a difficult childbirth, and the faces of the nobles in the entire Northern Capital were filled with joy.

He was on the verge of tears, and the moment the tears left his eyes, they had already frozen.

"If Bimogan wanted to kill us, there would be no need to go to such great lengths." Xuda Khan shook off his hand and looked up at the sky, "The weather is nice tonight, get ready to set off."

Oh? Hudu Luhan slightly squinted his eyes, "Then what do you think I came here for?"

"My grandson Xudahan, you have returned home. During the time in the Northern Wilderness, I often wondered what you all looked like, whether you resembled me," the old man said softly

Then we have reached a deal said Shan Bikong

The Crown Prince Hudulu Khan of the Northern Shuo entered the tent after lifting the curtain. The gold chains adorning his entire body caught the attention of Xuda Khan, and his bright and bold smile slightly dispelled the shadow cast by the cold and piercing gaze of the mountain sky upon Xuda Khan's heart. Hudulu Khan took an action that Xuda Khan had never anticipated; he directly approached Xuda Khan and firmly grasped his shoulders, shaking him.

"Aren't you the envoy of Dayin?" Xu Da Khan could hardly believe it

"But our surname is Pasur." Xuda Khan heavily patted Guimu's shoulder, "Always remember, you are still a Pasur. This surname is noble. If you abandon the glory of the Pasur lineage to seek the favor of the Wolf Lord, then you are seeking the wrong person. The Wolf Lord values the descendants of heroes. We must use our own strength to tell him that we do not submit to him, but rather, we are his partners! They cannot tear us apart and devour us, for together with them, we can expand greater territories!" The Wolf Lord values the descendants of heroes. We must use our own strength to tell him that we do not submit to him, but rather, we are his partners! They cannot tear us apart and devour us, for together with them, we can expand greater territories!

"Does the term 'transaction' mean that the Pope of the Chen Yue will transfer the support given to my father to me?" asked Huduluhan

He knelt down, pressing his entire body against the ground

I am Pasul, Mr. Shan Bikun. Even if the lord regards me as an outsider, I am still a descendant of the Pasul family. " He let out a long sigh, "I will not betray my surname. If you doubt my purpose for being here, then I can immediately summon your esteemed wood and attendants. I have come here solely to convey the lord's words to the Wolf Lord, and this cannot be said in front of outsiders.

"Power, we will allow you to return to the Northern Capital with immense authority. At that time, the nobles will believe in you; they will prostrate themselves at your feet, pleading for your favor." Khudulu Khan slowly broke into a smile, and no one could imagine that such a warm and even sweet smile would appear on the face of the Golden King.

Xuda Han felt very cold, and he also wanted to find a warm place to take refuge, but he did not know where to go, whether to turn back to the Northern Capital or to take a step forward and lift that curtain

My dear nephew, you are truly clever. The things we have obtained after traversing thousands of miles and the deaths of countless men will certainly not be given away lightly. You also understand that your uncle did not come here to express mercy and generosity. " Khudulu Khan said slowly, "We hope to establish a new covenant with you, replacing the one made thirty years ago between the Wolf Lord and Guo Le'er.

Bi Mogan and Xu Dahang locked eyes, and a heavy silence enveloped the golden tent.

The power to survive! Hudu Luhan maintained his smile, speaking each word deliberately, "The Wolf Lord will grant you this power, which you may bestow upon those you favor in the Qingyang tribe. You have heard with your own ears the Wolf Lord's order to massacre the city of Beidu; he is a warrior who keeps his promises. The camps he vowed to annihilate have vanished over the past several decades. However, for you, his grandson, he can make an exception. Anyone from the Qingyang tribe, as long as you grant them mercy, will gain the power to survive. You have heard with your own ears the Wolf Lord's order to massacre the city of Beidu; he is a warrior who keeps his promises. The camps he vowed to annihilate have vanished over the past several decades. However, for you, his grandson, he can make an exception. Anyone from the Qingyang tribe, as long as you grant them mercy, will gain the power to survive. There is only one exception, and that is Bimogan Pasuer.

He lowered his head and said, "Brother, I am not very bright; can you tell me what you are thinking in your heart?"

In the gaze of Shan Bikun, there seemed to be a tangible pressure, and Xu Dakhan did not dare to meet his eyes. When this old man revealed his true strength, Xu Dakhan felt as weak as an ant. He was sweating all over, his back was soaked, and the corners of his eyes twitched uncontrollably

"Gui Mu, do you really believe that Hudu Luhan, the one we are to call uncle, will support us in becoming the masters of Beidu City?" The corner of Xu Dahhan's eye twitched, and a glimmer of light flickered in his gaze

Xu Dahuan stood before the grand golden tent, surprisingly without any guards stationed outside. The fierce wind howled past, and the gray wolf flag atop the tent fluttered vigorously

However, he is Xuda Khan Pasur, and he will not be flustered by this. The other party's desire to torment his spirit indicates that they wish to negotiate with him, which is good news. This shows that he still holds leverage that can entice the people of Shobei. Xuda Khan sneered inwardly, as the actions of the Shobei people have already revealed their intentions.

No, it is not for me," Shan Bikun looked into Hudu Luhan's eyes, "In fact, I had already anticipated that the heir would come here; I have been waiting for you all night.

Hudu Luhan smiled again, but this time, his smile was no longer bright and sunny; instead, it carried a wolf-like ferocity. "So what if it is a puppet? This puppet's position is not something you alone are vying for."

It sounds like an insult," Hudu Luhan said calmly

Is it considered a significant gift to present Beidu City to the Wolf Lord as a present for the grandson

In the golden tent, Bi Mogan sat on a throne of gold, resting one hand on his head. He appeared very weary, as if his heavy head might fall off.

What is power? Xu Dakhan felt his tongue dry.

The messenger raised his thick eyebrows and said, "They have already lost something significant. It can be used for negotiations with us."

I heard from the Wolf Lord that the Crown Prince originally disliked me, believing that I came to the Northern Shuo with ulterior motives. However, suddenly the Crown Prince's attitude changed, and he came to my tent to seek my counsel. This indicates that the Crown Prince would not abandon cooperation for the sake of pride or face, and he has no unnecessary taboos. This is certainly a compliment

"Guimu, why do you speak out of turn when the Lord is speaking?" Xu Dahaan furrowed his brows and glared at Guimu, "The Lord has pondered for so long; there must be a reason for the task he has assigned us."

Xuda Khan recalled the white feathered arrows on the battlefield, and his heart sank; he had already come to believe it

I have become the Lord of the Prairie, what will you gain?

Bimogan waved his hand and said, "Xuda Khan, you may go out now. Do not speak to anyone about the matter of negotiating with the Shuo Bei people, including Asule."

Half the night had passed, and Xu Dahuan was pacing in the camp of the Shuo North, braving the wind and snow. However, the bitter cold could not calm his heart. He had failed, not due to his incompetence, but because the momentum of Qingyang had already waned. As a delegate of a defeated tribe, he could not hold his head high with his own strength. Occasionally, Shuo North warriors passed by him, yet they did not even glance in his direction, making him feel like a wandering ghost, aimlessly drifting in this place.

Shall the Qingyang tribe forever remain the servant of the Shobei tribe

"Xuda Han, in fact, there are people willing to negotiate with you," a voice came from outside the tent, "for example, your uncle"

A father who can use his two beloved daughters as bargaining chips for peace, would he care about the children born to these daughters? Menglehuoer · Woerhan, "When I mention this name, there is a tremor in Xudahan's voice, 'I respect him as a hero of the grasslands. He is able to cast aside human cowardice and selfish love to accomplish such remarkable deeds, but he is not my grandfather, and Huduluhan is not my uncle... If they truly had feelings for the bloodline of the family, they would not have waited thirty years, only to return after the suffering daughter has already died.' I respect him as a hero of the grasslands. He is able to cast aside human cowardice and selfish love to accomplish such remarkable deeds, but he is not my grandfather, and Huduluhan is not my uncle... If they truly had feelings for the bloodline of the family, they would not have waited thirty years, only to return after the suffering daughter has already died. I am nothing in their eyes!" Xudahan's face twitched slightly, 'Great Lord, so I am a person of Qingyang!'

This is a very significant promise

"Brother, how are you?" Gui Mu lowered his voice and asked, his eyes vigilantly scanning the surroundings. However, no one paid attention to them. With the city on the brink of collapse, even the guards in front of the golden tent were in a state of anxiety, completely unlike before, when they were as alert as hunting dogs.

On one side of the felt mat sat the smiling Huduluhan, while on the other side was an old man, his dark and gnarled muscles resembling withered wood, with eyes that glowed a blood-red hue. The old man was sizing up Xuda Khan from top to bottom, and surprisingly, a warmth emanated from his fierce gaze.

Do not squander our generosity, " said Huduluhan, " no one else can obtain such favorable conditions.

No, it is not. Xuda Han, I understand you from your eyes; you are very proud, just like your father. You want to become the master of Qingyang, and of course, you would not agree to a covenant that tramples on the dignity of Qingyang. We will not put you in a difficult position; this covenant will be very generous. The Qingyang tribe and the Shuobei tribe will be equal in this covenant, and the Qingyang tribe will forever be the lord of the North Land. However, in exchange, the Qingyang tribe must use all its military strength to support the Shuobei tribe in crossing the sea to conquer the Donglu. All the land we acquire in Donglu will belong to Shuobei, and Qingyang must not interfere. We will not put you in a difficult position; this covenant will be very generous. The Qingyang tribe and the Shuobei tribe will be equal in this covenant, and the Qingyang tribe will forever be the lord of the North Land. However, in exchange, the Qingyang tribe must use all its military strength to support the Shuobei tribe in crossing the sea to conquer the Donglu. All the land we acquire in Donglu will belong to Shuobei, and Qingyang must not interfere. To ensure that you do not go back on your word after receiving our favor, the military strength of the Qingyang tribe will be under the control of the Shuobei tribe for ten years.

We do not require any spoils of war, nor do we need your land. What God needs is merely loyalty; you shall follow God's will and lend the forces of Qingyang to Khudulu Khan to wage war against the Eastern Great Yin Empire

Nephew? Hudu Luhan chuckled, "I suddenly remembered that I have two such nephews in the Northern Capital."

Huluduhan... refused? Just refused to negotiate? No other statements?" Bimogan looked into Xudahan's eyes, his face as pale as paper, "What were the exact words?"

Khan Xuda's thoughts were in disarray. Before coming here, he had analyzed the situation in his mind, convinced that the private alliance between Bimogan and Chunguog had angered the Emperor of Donglu, prompting the Emperor to support the northern Shu and Qingyang in their war. The Great Yin would certainly not want the northern Shu to dominate the grasslands, which would present him with a negotiating opportunity. ... However, if Shan Bikun had nothing to do with the Emperor of Great Yin ... . .. He felt that he was about to be swept into an irreversible upheaval. The Great Yin would certainly not want the northern Shu to dominate the grasslands, which would present him with a negotiating opportunity. ... However, if Shan Bikun had nothing to do with the Emperor of Great Yin ... . .. He felt that he was about to be swept into an irreversible upheaval. It was a massive wheel of fate, but Khan Xuda did not know who was turning it.

"Because I am also an old man." Shan Bikong smiled, raised his cup, "Your Highness, please."

All power?'' Khubilai Khan was taken aback

No, I just want to come and see an old friend," Shan Bikong said, "The one negotiating with you will be your uncle, the heir of the Northern Shuo, Hudu Luhan, and he will be here shortly. Furthermore, I would like to hear the true thoughts of the Third Prince.

It is my honor to serve Your Majesty; I wonder what kind of task you would like to assign to me

"Gui Mu, don't say anything more, I have already made up my mind." Xu Dahuan turned over and mounted the horse, lowering his voice, "Even if it means risking my life, I want to meet Meng Lehuo Er · Wo Erhan... I have wanted to meet that man for many years."

In the city of Beidu, a vast expanse of white stretches as far as the eye can see, devoid of any people. Thick layers of snow weigh down on the tents, while the cold wind causes the sheepskin curtains to strike against the tents with a sharp "crack". Xuda Han and Guimu feel as though they are walking through a ghost town, even though just a few months ago this was the most prosperous city on the grasslands. The sheep have all been slaughtered, and the draft horses are nearly all gone as well; in Beidu, apart from the warhorses, only the people are still gasping for breath. The hay that was prepared for winter has now been repurposed for kindling, and the frightened people are particularly sensitive to the temperature. They huddle all day in their small tents, tending to the fire pit, exchanging glances without uttering a word, as if that layer of fabric could shield them from the biting cold, frost, and the axes and knives of the northern invaders.

The one who has come is your nephew, Xu Da Han Na Yan from the Qingyang tribe, and Gui Mu Na Yang

Bimo Gan remained silent for a long time, a profound fatigue enveloping him. He leaned weakly against the golden throne, staring blankly at the space above Xudahan's head.

"No... it's not like that," Xu Dakhan said softly, "I just suddenly thought of my mother."

As Xu Dahuan stepped out of the golden tent, Guimu approached him eagerly.

No, the eyes of Huduluhan shone with excitement from drinking too much wine. "I like what you said about the sweet water, the beautiful maidens, and the city where the towers touch the clouds. I harbor no hatred; I simply desire a broader territory. Can my wish receive the support of the Moon of Chen?"

He was taken aback. Inside the large tent, there was no scene of extravagance or debauchery; dozens of felt mats were spread out on the ground, with freshly roasted meat and fragrant mare's milk on display. The gasps and moans came from a few women huddled together in a corner. Upon seeing Khutug Khan enter the tent, they immediately released their embrace and quietly slipped away. Only men remained in the tent, nearly a hundred elite wolf cavalrymen sat scattered, all raising their heads in silence to look at Khutug Khan.

"You are right, but what I want to say is that he is still alive for a certain purpose. If his wish is fulfilled, he should die. That wish is not far in front of us," Shan Bikong said softly.

It is time to pay a visit. If I am not mistaken, they have come bearing gifts said Shan Bikong suddenly

"Then did he still send your elder brother? To risk your life to probe the words of the Shobei people?" Gui Mu sneered, "But he did not anticipate that the Shobei tribe would be unwilling to negotiate with his envoy, yet would be willing to negotiate with your elder brother, right?"

Is this a compliment? The corners of Hohdulu Khan's mouth carried a hint of a smile

"The Wolf Lord will not meet with you," said Shan Bikong, "because you no longer possess anything that would entice the Wolf to take the initiative. In other words, the so-called Great Lord is now at the end of his rope."

He understands why he has been placed in this dilapidated and cold tent to wait. If he were the master, he would also use this method to torment the spirit of the visitor, first instilling fear and unease, and then gaining advantages from the negotiations.

Xu Daham stood silently before the throne, his expression devoid of any emotion, the lines on his face as hard and sharp as a knife

"Very well, we shall set out under the cover of night. I will provide you with thirty men and thirty swift horses. You must quietly leave the city without letting anyone know. If the matter of the negotiations is exposed at this time, I fear the hearts of the people in the Northern Capital will be thrown into chaos." Bi Moguan sighed again, having aged considerably in just a few days. "Those who negotiate with the Northern people are sinners who tarnish their ancestors... However, I am not referring to you; I am speaking of myself."

However, in such a situation, it feels somewhat unfamiliar. Shan Bikong smiled, "But I have always been concerned about the Third Prince; back then in Beidu City, the Third Prince left a deep impression on me."

Xudahan felt himself sinking into those blood-red eyes, as if being swallowed by a pool of blood, unable to resist or struggle. His heart was exceptionally calm, even harboring a faint joy. He had returned home, where no one would mock his lineage, no one would scold him for his treacherous intentions, and no one would smear sheep's blood on his lips. Within him, another Xudahan awakened, Xudahan Woe'erhan, a wolf born to be solitary, witnessing for the first time the vast pack of wolves stretching to the horizon. He had returned home, where no one would mock his lineage, no one would scold him for his treacherous intentions, and no one would smear sheep's blood on his lips. Within him, another Xudahan awakened, Xudahan Woe'erhan, a wolf born to be solitary, witnessing for the first time the vast pack of wolves stretching to the horizon

"Attack the Eastern Land?" Xu Dahan blurted out, "This is impossible; you cannot cross the Tiantuo Strait"

The tent flap was lifted, and a person leaning on a cane walked in, smiling at Xuda Han.

Hudu Luhan had just raised his cup when someone outside the tent said, "Your Highness, there are envoys from Beidu City here for peace talks!"

"Is it the Northern Capital?" Xu Da汗 once again found himself drenched in sweat, "I do not believe that you have come for the Northern Capital only to hand it over to me after seizing it. Do you see me as a gullible child?"

He pondered for a moment, "Mr. Shan Bikong, what will you gain from this war?"

Hoduluhan released his hand and sat beside Xuda Khan. "Xuda Khan, we are all people of the grasslands, so let us speak plainly. If we speak well, we are good friends; if we speak poorly, even though you are my nephew, we will still be enemies, and I will have to take your head. " He spoke openly and sincerely, "I want to give you a chance; you should speak the truth to me. I know that Bimogan has not treated you well. You once wanted to kill him to become the great lord; what reason do you have now to serve him? Is it merely for the dignity of your Pasur family descendants?"

Bimo Gan lowered his head once again, falling into silence for a long time. He then spoke softly, "Xuda Khan, do you still harbor wounds in your heart from our past conflicts?"

Then what about the heir? Is it only the Northern Capital that the heir desires?

The Great Yin is about to perish, and the divine has already forsaken that realm said Shan Bikong in a somber tone

He reached out to wipe the snowflakes off his face and lifted the sheepskin curtain of the golden-topped tent

He recalled those despairingly cold nights, when he was reported by the nobles for some trivial matters and confined by his father in the tent, shivering from the cold. In the deepest darkness, he roared silently, proclaiming, "One day! One day! I will make you regret it, for you should not have misjudged a person!" His name is Xu Da Khan Pasur

"Ten years is enough for us to seize the four provinces of the Eastern Land. I have heard merchants from the Eastern Land say that there are dozens, even hundreds of cities more splendid than Beidu City, where people live in towering high-rises, and the tiles are covered in gold. The nobles there all wear brocade and adorn themselves with jewels. The women of the Eastern Land are as soft as water and as sweet as honey, and the men would wish to drink them in... At that time, your uncle will behead the Emperor of the Eastern Land, sit on his throne, and embrace his thousands of women," Huduluhan said with a smile. "Will you then disdain the dilapidation of Beidu City and come to the Eastern Land to seek refuge with me?"

Hoduluhan furrowed his brow, "He has grown old and very stubborn"

Xu Dahuan's gaze silently swept over the desolate scenery by the roadside, and then turned towards the sky. He let out a long sigh, as if he had been harboring a deeply repressed breath within him that he needed to release

"Brother, do you want the entire grassland?" Gui Mu raised his head, "Do you want to be a true sovereign... not the sovereign supported by the Northern Shuo region!"

"A very large gift, that is the Northern Capital City." Shan Bikong said, "Xuda Khan Pasur, I know this person well; he hides his heart very deeply, yet his intense desires and dissatisfaction always reveal him.

Khoduluhan walked towards the tent with his hands behind his back, pointing to the nearby grand tent adorned with gold, "My dear nephew, I give you time to think. That is my tent; you can be the hero of Qingyang, draw your sword and charge in, and see if you can take my life; if you have made up your mind and accepted the terms... my tent is warm, filled with beautiful soft women, and also my promises"

"It is not that one does not dare, but rather that one cannot. " Bi Mogang smiled wearily and said, "Xuda Han, I still understand you. If you have no grievances in your heart, then you are no longer Xuda Han."

Xuda Han pressed his lips tightly together, remaining silent

"This was meant to be yours; we are merely returning it to you," said Hudu Luhan calmly. "This is your grandfather's wish. He asked me to tell you that he will eventually return to the snowy plains of the North, accompanied by his wolf pack. He loved his daughter, your mother, very much, but unfortunately, she has passed away. This love he will pass on to you, and you, bearing the bloodlines of the Qingyang clan of Pasur and the Shobei clan of Woerhan, will become the great lord of the steppe"

"I had already guessed before setting off," said Xu Dahuan

As the golden tent was set up, Guimu grabbed Xuda Khan's arm, his face filled with anxiety. "Brother, please don't be foolish! Although Bimogan says so, if the people in the city find out about our negotiations outside the city, we will surely be seen as traitors. At that time, if Bimogan kills us, we will have no words to defend ourselves. Moreover, even though we have Shobei blood, we still bear the surname Pasuer. Can we commit such an act that would tarnish our ancestors?"

"What does this promise amount to?" Huduluhan spread his hands, walked back and forth, and laughed heartily, "We have also prepared an even greater gift for you."

Bimo Gan raised his eyebrows in surprise and looked at him, "Did you guess it?"

I will absolutely not reveal a single bit! Otherwise, the God of the Pan-Da will make me die under the sword!" Xu Da Khan swore a terrible oath

You speak well; everyone has weaknesses, so everyone has conditions to negotiate. However, Third Prince, "Shan Bikong suddenly turned his head, his gaze sharp as a forest of swords, "Will you negotiate conditions with the gods?"

Do you want to make me your puppet

Xuda Han fell silent for a moment, "Everyone... has conditions to discuss."

The noble tree shivered in the shade, unable to utter a word

"Negotiation?" Guimu widened his eyes, "Your Majesty, at this point, negotiation is no longer possible. The words of the Wolf Lord are never changed!"

Your Highness! I have never dared to entertain such thoughts!" Xu Dahan stepped forward, "I am a person who has made mistakes, and I am more aware than anyone of my past disrespect towards Your Highness. To be granted forgiveness is already a testament to Your Highness's benevolence. I do not dare to harbor any grievances.

"Cooperation, a partnership beneficial to both you and us," Shan Bikong said. "I have been concerned about one thing: the Wolf Lord's pace may come to a standstill in the Northern Capital. This contradicts our purpose of supporting him. We hope that after the Northern Region becomes the master of the grasslands, it will soon become the master of the entire Nine Provinces. The Wolf Cavalry and Xue Lingge's warhorses should charge all the way to the banks of the Qingyi River in Wanzhou, where there are sweet waters and beautiful maidens, and cities with towers reaching the clouds. However, from my observations, the Wolf Lord does not truly care about those things."

This is the longest moment in the life of Lü Yingyang, Xuda Khan, and Pasul. He stands in the boundless wind and snow, hearing the howls of wolves from an unknown source, listening to the memories of the past twenty-nine years ebbing and flowing like the tide, rising and falling ... rising and falling ...

However, for us, it is a different matter. You have the noble blood of the gray wolf flowing in your veins. We will grant you power; there is no one else in the entire Northern Capital who can obtain such power, not even Moghan Pasur. Suddenly, Huduluhan's hand came to a halt.

Xu Dahuan, you are too clever. As your uncle, I feel both happy and worried. You have inherited the intelligence of our Woerhan family, but it is terrifying if such a clever ally were to betray you. " Hudulu Khan chuckled softly, "You are right. Although the Wolf Lord intends to exterminate the Qingyang clan, I persuaded him not to do so. I am not like the Wolf Lord; I am not a hero. I am a leader of a tribe, and I traveled thousands of miles to Beidu City not only for revenge but also for the power of the entire grassland. We do not seek the empty title of the master of Beidu City; that title can continue to belong to the Qingyang clan. What we want is, after this battle, an alliance between the Pasur family and the Woerhan family, so that we can jointly control Beidu. With our combined forces, no power on the grassland will dare to defy us.

"Just as the father said to Bukhara, he has come for revenge," said Khudulu Khan. "He merely seeks to wash away the shame of thirty years ago; his warriors died on this battlefield, which torments him. Only the blood of his enemies can alleviate his anguish. He did not deceive Bukhara; the Northern Wolf Lord never deceives anyone"

"Brother, is there something on your mind that you can share with me?" Gui Mu held the reins and said, "I have always felt that after you went to the village in the northern region, you have been preoccupied with something."

Does Mr. Shan Bikun represent the Shuo North region in negotiations with us

Bimo Gan nodded slightly, "Those people are waiting for you outside, Guimu, you and Xuda Han should go together"

"But... but this is what you said, brother!" Gui Mu was taken aback

Shan Bikun and Huduluhan sat on the ground inside the felt tent, with freshly roasted lamb and strong milk wine placed before them. Huduluhan had not previously liked this distant traveler from the East, but after witnessing his ability to turn the tide of battle in an instant, the Northern prince immediately set aside his pride and warmly visited Shan Bikun's tent. In just one day, Shan Bikun, who had lost both feet, seemed to have fully recovered, feeling no pain or loss at all, as he sat cross-legged and conversed animatedly with Huduluhan. Huduluhan had not previously liked this distant traveler from the East, but after witnessing his ability to turn the tide of battle in an instant, the Northern prince immediately set aside his pride and warmly visited Shan Bikun's tent. In just one day, Shan Bikun, who had lost both feet, seemed to have fully recovered, feeling no pain or loss at all, as he sat cross-legged and conversed animatedly with Huduluhan.

"Xuda Han, I need you to do me a favor." Bimogan finally spoke up

Xu Dahuan sat quietly in the tent, alone. Outside, the cold wind howled fiercely, its sound resembling the breath of a fierce ghost. The tent seemed on the verge of collapsing at any moment, and the burning coals could not dispel the chill. His fingers gradually became stiff and numb, and his knees felt as if they were about to lose all sensation, yet he remained seated motionless, as if cast in iron

He also recalled the pain of the gravel grinding through his pants and into his knees. He and Guimu knelt together, while the faces of the passersby were filled with disdain. "The wolf cubs from the north, how can they ever be tamed?" someone remarked. Guimu trembled with anger, tears streaming down his face, while Xuda silently endured, keeping his back straight even while kneeling. He would never show a hint of weakness in front of those people, for that would only invite more unrestrained mockery from them

Shan Bi smiled faintly and said, "Third Prince, do you think I am someone with whom conditions can be negotiated?"

"It is!" Xu Dahuan slowly extended his hand towards the distance, gradually forming a fist, the joints cracking with each movement. "What I seek from this grassland is the grassland itself!"

He feels as though he is standing on the edge of a cliff, where a misstep in any direction could lead to a fall. At the age of twenty-nine, this decision could either elevate him to the pinnacle of power or lead to his demise

Brother... are you being overly sensitive? We... we are the grandchildren of the Lord of the North Wolf!" Gui Mu stared wide-eyed.

Huduluhan patted Xudahan on the shoulder, "Don't be so tense. Sitting like that makes you look like a statue. Doesn't your back hurt?" He stood up and walked behind Xudahan, vigorously patting his shoulders with both hands, "Relax your body, and your mind will also relax. Think about it carefully; perhaps your situation isn't as bad as you think."

"Mr. Shan Bikun, we meet again," said Xu Dahuan

"Noble wood, a person cannot become a puppet. To survive in a pack of wolves, one must master their own fate!" Xu Dahhan said decisively, "I can sense a similar essence from the group of Meng Lehuo, which brings me great joy. This is the joy of a young wolf encountering an old wolf, but the young wolf must quickly learn the old wolf's skills, or one day it will be devoured by the old wolf!"

Xu Dahuan felt a shiver erupt from the depths of his heart, spreading throughout his entire body. The calm and serene eyes of Shan Bikong easily pierced through his facade. In front of this elder, he felt like a child

After a long period of contemplation, Xu Dahuan nodded and said, "I understand Your Majesty's intention. I believe that there are terms to discuss with everyone, including the Wolf Lord. I just wonder what terms Your Majesty would be willing to accept"

Thirty warriors waiting outside the tent rode over and bowed from their horses. Gui Mu looked up; the wind howled and swirled in the sky, and it was uncertain when it would snow again. The weather was truly as harsh as that of a devil. He did not understand what Xu Da Khan meant by saying the weather was fine, nor did he wish to understand, as he followed closely behind Xu Da Khan with his hand on his sword, "Brother!"

Let Xu Da Khan risk his life and serve as the envoy for the Great Lord this time! Xu Da Khan said this and bowed down.

He is truly a fine young man, my sister's child! Hudu Luhan appeared to be filled with joy

That strait is an obstacle for the barbarians, but not for the winged people. I can assure you that when His Highness Khudulu Khan's cavalry advances to the seaside, there will be hundreds of long ships piloted by the winged people waiting there

Who stands before me? Blood flows through our Oerhan family veins, yet you are a spokesperson for the Qingyang tribe? The Wolf Lord does not wish to see you; he wants me to tell you that you must either kneel and kiss his feet, acknowledging him as your grandfather and offering your life to him; or, like a proper man of the Pasur family, wait for his blade to fall upon your head. Xu Da Khan said slowly

Gui Mu gazed into Xu Da Han's eyes, where the depths of his pupils seemed to flicker with flames, cold yet intense. Gui Mu licked his lips, feeling his back drenched with sweat. He realized he had underestimated this brother; the thoughts his brother pondered were entirely beyond his imagination. Although he was a warrior capable of tearing apart ferocious wolves, his heart remained as naive as that of a child.

Ten years

Bi Mogan shook his head, "I do not know, so I need to ask for your help. Xuda Han, regardless of the circumstances, the Wolf Lord is your grandfather. Even if he is unwilling to negotiate, it will not be detrimental to you. You and Guimu should take the lead; this may be an opportunity for Qingyang. Please help me inquire, and if the Wolf Lord presents any conditions, come back and inform me." He sighed, "I have wronged you in some matters before and intended to pardon you, hoping that we brothers could reconcile. Please help me inquire, and if the Wolf Lord presents any conditions, come back and inform me." He sighed again, "I have wronged you in some matters before and intended to pardon you, hoping that we brothers could reconcile. However, I harbored some doubts in my heart, so I did not assign you and Guimu any tasks, nor did I provide you with any troops, leaving you idle. You probably think that my pardon of you is merely a show of leniency for outsiders, right?"

After a long silence, Gui Mu nodded and said, "Brother, you have shown the way, and Gui Mu will follow you!"

Xu Dahhan's heart skipped a beat as he stood up. That was the Eastern Land Elder, who instilled fear throughout the entire Northern Capital. Xu Dahhan had known him for a long time and had once received a precious gift from him, a valuable river armor.

This is not generosity; it is because I am still of use! You need a descendant of the Pasur family to continue governing Beidu City, otherwise, even if you step into Beidu, you will be besieged by several other tribes. After our decisive battle, will you still have enough strength to deal with the Yanghe, Lanma, Shachi, and Jiuban?" Xu Da Khan suddenly looked up and stared directly at Hudu Lu Khan, "You do not. Therefore, you will not massacre the city; you need someone to gather the remaining men of Qingyang for you to fight!" You need a descendant of the Pasur family to continue governing Beidu City, otherwise, even if you step into Beidu, you will be besieged by several other tribes. After our decisive battle, will you still have enough strength to deal with the Yanghe, Lanma, Shachi, and Jiuban?" Xu Da Khan suddenly looked up and stared directly at Hudu Lu Khan, "You do not. Therefore, you will not massacre the city; you need someone to gather the remaining men of Qingyang for you to fight!"

Xu Dahuan was startled and turned around abruptly, seeing that Bimo Gan had already risen from the golden throne and was strolling out from behind the tent with his hands clasped behind his back

"Third Prince, what is there that cannot be said directly?" Shan Bikun looked at him, "In fact, you do not have many options. Qingyang no longer has any leverage to negotiate with Shuo Bei. As an envoy of the Great Lord, you cannot achieve any results. When the Northern Capital is on the brink of destruction, why not first try to save yourself?"

As Sudahan Pasul said, "I have never lived on the pity of others," in the clearest and coldest voice. "Is he trying to guess my heart, that fool from Bimogan? Am I fighting against him for the grievances we have suffered? Ridiculous!" His expression turned fierce, his eyes twitching, "What I want is not the dignity of a prince"

A larger gift

You don't believe it? Guimu was completely bewildered. He remembered the way Xuda Khan described his encounter with Menglehuoer, the flame of ecstatic joy in his eyes igniting a fire in Guimu's heart as well

Then we shall set off immediately! If we survive, we will certainly bring back the news to the Great Lord. Xu Da Khan turned and left.

Finally, he arrived at the front of the large tent, where he heard the lively sound of flutes and lascivious laughter coming from within. There were coarse laughs from men and seductive laughs from women. As the men and women laughed, they began to gasp, emitting heart-pounding moans. The sound of the flutes grew increasingly boisterous, and a faint aroma of wine wafted in from an unknown source

Hoduluhan fell silent for a moment, then broke into a smile, "Mr. Shan Bikun knows my father so well?"

Xu Dahuan fell silent for a moment, lowered his head and smiled, "Well, since everyone is being so candid. I am Nayan from the Qingyang faction, and it is impossible for me to defect to the Shuo Bei faction. Not only would I gain nothing from that, but I would also forever bear the label of a traitor. I do not have the ability to influence the situation in the Northern Capital; compared to Mo Gan, who is wary of me and Gui Mu, we have not been granted any real power, and the nobles do not value us. I have been sent here merely as a messenger; once I have delivered my message, I will leave. This is the truth."

"Let's not discuss this now, let's talk on the way." Xu Dahuan shot a cold glance.

There is not much reason, " Bi Mogan lowered his head, " but now there is no one in the Northern Capital who can face the enemy. Asule has still not awakened, the Ninth Prince has been lying down and cannot get up, the Bahbahang brothers are all injured, and the warriors have lost their courage. If we fight another battle like that, we will collapse. Rather than letting everyone die in battle to protect the Northern Capital, it is better to see if there is a chance for peace talks. Even if the conditions are harsh, it is still better than having no one left to survive.

"What you want... is a traitor." Xu Dakhan was drenched in cold sweat. He desperately wanted to catch his breath, to take a moment to rest

Understood. Xu Dahuan turned and left.

Xuda Khan felt the strength and warmth in his hands, momentarily unsure whether he should push away this fervor

Hoduluhan and all the wolf cavalry nodded in unison as a gesture of respect

It is! Xu Dahankhan pulled Guimu's arm and left the tent.

Xu Dahhan was momentarily taken aback, as Shan Bikong did not address him as Xu Dahhan but instead used the title from when his father was still alive. The atmosphere of their conversation suddenly softened, resembling a reunion of old friends

He did not become furious, nor did he express any doubts. The Qingyang tribe no longer had anyone capable of fighting, and the Shobei tribe was now only wary of a layer of city walls in the Northern Capital. It is likely that Moggan also guessed that the Shobei people would not agree to peace talks at this time. Xu Da Khan said softly, "Who would do such a foolish thing? To negotiate with prey that has already fallen into a trap?"

I am the envoy sent by the Great Lord, but the Great Lord did not inform me of the terms for negotiation. If I receive any information, I will return to convey it. Xu Da Khan said, "I have no thoughts, nor do I need any thoughts"