Chapter 0104: The Stepping Stone

Chapter 0104: The Stepping Stone

Learning that the battle had ended, Mi Jing walked out of the camp. He politely declined the offer from the guards to bring him his horse and instead walked from the Northern Pacification Army's encampment to the North Gate of Sheng Le. The distance was over five miles, nearly six. Mi Jing walked quietly and resolutely. After walking for more than a mile, the ground was littered with corpses.

There were Xianbei, members of the Northern Pacification Army, and reinforcements whom the Northern Pacification Army had always looked down upon. Mi Jing held his prayer beads in front of him, muttering prayers as he maintained a steady pace.

About fifteen minutes later, Mi Jing arrived at his destination. In the distance stood the imposing North Gate of Sheng Le. The battle here had been more brutal than anywhere else, and Mi Jing could almost see the desperate yet stubborn Xianbei defending their city.

Though they had different paths, warriors were always worthy of respect.

This scene stirred some memories within Mi Jing. The people who died here might have been the ones responsible for the massacre at Zunshan Temple nine years ago. They had killed everyone there and then stormed into the streets, slaughtering the entire population of Chang'an. Those who survived by chance, believing that obedience would keep them alive, ultimately became sacrificial victims of the Xianbei's rage.

Mi Jing should have hated these people, but for some reason, looking at the corpses sprawled on the ground or half-open eyes, he felt nothing—neither joy nor sympathy for their fate.

All he could think of were two words: cause and effect.

The seeds sown years ago had now borne the fruit of retribution. But did the world truly balance every cause and effect without error? By morning, the karma of ten years ago had been fully resolved. Would new karma be sown anew?

Mi Jing found himself feeling lost again. Eight years ago, he had chosen to journey westward in search of the right path due to his confusion. Now, he believed he was on the right path, so why did he still feel lost?

Frowning slightly, Mi Jing took a step forward. He intended to enter the city directly, but a particularly glaring light caught his eye. Turning, he saw the King sitting on the ground.

Mi Jing: "…"

This place was a perfect depiction of hell on earth, yet Qu Yunmie had somehow found a clean spot amidst the carnage. He and Xiao Rong sat side by side on a large rock, speaking in low voices.

Curious, Mi Jing approached them, but after a few steps, he froze, for he saw Qu Yunmie holding Xiao Rong's hand.

Mi Jing: "…………" Please be more discreet.

Please…

Xiao Rong didn't want to freeze outside either, but the city was not yet secure despite the clearing of the enemy forces outside. Sheng Le was a vast area, and small groups of Xianbei soldiers could be hiding anywhere. If Xiao Rong entered and those soldiers decided to attack, Qu Yunmie wouldn't be able to guarantee his safety.

While waiting for Jian Qiao's response, they sat there, sleepless and tense. Xiao Rong was so exhausted that he could barely keep his eyes open. Drooping his eyelids, he asked Qu Yunmie about their next move: "What will you do with the prisoners, Your Majesty?"

Qu Yunmie squeezed Xiao Rong's fingers, puzzled by how slender a man's hands could be. Xiao Rong frowned and tried to pull his hand away.

Qu Yunmie reflexively tightened his grip, causing Xiao Rong to cry out, "Pain!"

Qu Yunmie: "…"

He quickly rubbed Xiao Rong's hand apologetically. Seeing Xiao Rong's resentful expression, he changed the subject hastily: "Prisoners… of course, we'll kill them!"

Xiao Rong blinked slowly and then launched into an argument: "Twenty thousand people, all killed?! What about the civilians in the city? Will you kill them too?!"

Qu Yunmie: "Civilians and soldiers are different."

Xiao Rong: "Once you disarm the prisoners, they're no different from civilians! No, I won't let you kill them. Massacring prisoners is something from another era. If you don't plan to exterminate all the Xianbei, you can't treat the prisoners so brutally. Twenty thousand is indeed many, but even Pingcheng doesn't need that many prisoners."

Qu Yunmie: "That's why I said to kill them. There are too many Xianbei. Keeping twenty thousand prisoners could be dangerous if any high-ranking officials escape. Even if there are no high-ranking officials, do you think Rou Ran, Gaoche, and Kumo Xi won't have ideas? Once they unite, they could become another Xianbei threat."

Xiao Rong turned to look at Qu Yunmie's serious face and couldn't help but laugh: "You make a good point."

Qu Yunmie: "I always speak the truth."

Xiao Rong chuckled again but shook his head: "Even so, we must spare the lives of these twenty thousand prisoners, not just for your reputation but also to set a moral standard. We don't know the exact number of Xianbei, but based on their military strength, it's probably less than a million. Suppressing them solely through force will eventually lead to trouble. Either we gradually eliminate them, or they overpower us. Keeping the prisoners alive sends a message to other Xianbei: surrender and you won't be killed. Even with deep enmity between nations, civilians and prisoners shouldn't suffer."

The major cities of the Xianbei were Sheng Le, Shuofang, and Xihai. The first two housed nearly seventy percent of the Xianbei population, while Xihai had ten percent, and the rest lived scattered across the grasslands and deserts. According to Southern Yong, those living scattered were still leading primitive lives.

On the map, these three cities shared a common feature: Sheng Le and Shuofang were near the Yellow River, and Xihai was by Juyan Lake, with a weak river flowing through it. Nomadic tribes needed water sources; areas without water were ignored even by the Xianbei. Xiao Rong doubted whether the scattered Xianbei had the same loyalty to Murong as the residents of Sheng Le.

After securing Sheng Le, Qu Yunmie would move to Shuofang. Once Shuofang fell, they would venture into the desert, following the Great Wall to Zhangye and Jiuquan, then north along the weak river until they reached the final destination, Xihai.

As for the scattered groups… well, the Xianbei didn't manage them, so Xiao Rong didn't want to either. For the people of that time, the desert was a wasteland with no value. Even if Xiao Rong knew of mineral deposits, he couldn't exploit them under such harsh conditions. Long-term settlement in the desert was equivalent to exile.

The mineral resources on the grasslands could be better utilized, especially copper and iron deposits. However, Xiao Rong didn't want to turn the grasslands into mining sites. Some people couldn't work in mines, so they could return to their traditional occupations.

Cattle, sheep, and horses were essential commodities. As a general, Qu Yunmie would always prioritize the military, meaning they needed many horses. Cattle were also crucial. Although there were no rules against slaughtering cattle during wartime, once peace was established, such practices would re-emerge. Xiao Rong genuinely hoped this wouldn't happen because he loved beef.

Therefore, promoting cattle farming was necessary. Xiao Rong even planned to build an official road called the Oxen Road, where strong oxen would be used for farming, and those deemed unfit would be sent to the slaughterhouse.

However, developing livestock wasn't easy. It involved many aspects, such as veterinary care, fodder cultivation, and disease prevention. Introducing agriculture to nomadic tribes would create new challenges, including the emergence of landlords. When a landlord owned vast lands, they became the de facto ruler of that territory.

These issues needed to be addressed. Xiao Rong explained these points to Qu Yunmie, leaving him speechless. Initially, the discussion was about prisoners, but it had shifted to cattle breeding. Xiao Rong mentioned importing cattle from a place called Biliqika, which sounded strange.

As Xiao Rong continued talking, his right hand warmed up. Qu Yunmie silently released it and gestured for him to come closer.

Xiao Rong extended his left hand, continuing his passionate discussion about cattle.

Mi Jing listened from behind, but he didn't understand much. Despite having traveled extensively, Xiao Rong's ideas made him feel ignorant. Sighing, Mi Jing turned to leave, but this time, he was no longer confused. He even smiled lightly.

Regardless of whether they were from the grasslands or the Central Plains, under Xiao Rong's rule, they would all become workers. Xiao Rong had a natural dissatisfaction with everything. While others thought life was good enough, Xiao Rong saw them living in squalor.

He saw only poverty and believed everyone should live a busy and fulfilling life, working hard but enjoying a better quality of life.

This was not Mi Jing's forte. He had prepared much before returning to the Central Plains, but he never expected to be intercepted by an unwelcome visitor outside Anding City. This person was unreasonable and full of lies, leaving Mi Jing with no choice.

But he began to enjoy these unexpected intrusions, bringing vitality to his stagnant life.

Mi Jing took a few steps forward, and then Yu Shaoxie hurriedly approached. Seeing Mi Jing, he nodded and continued searching for Xiao Rong.

Spotting Xiao Rong, Yu Shaoxie was about to call out and quicken his pace, but he paused when Mi Jing blocked his view. Typically, a monk wouldn't stand so close, obscuring Xiao Rong from sight.

Mi Jing smiled at him. "Young Master Yu, how is the situation in Sheng Le?"

Yu Shaoxie: "..."

His expression was odd because they rarely had private conversations. Even when they discussed matters together, they would first tell Xiao Rong, who would then relay their thoughts back.

Blinking, Yu Shaoxie said uncertainly, "It has become much more stable?"

Mi Jing smiled with relief. "That's wonderful. I plan to enter the city and talk to those stubborn enemy soldiers to see if I can persuade them to change their minds. Can you guide me, Young Master Yu?"

Yu Shaoxie: "...Sure."

He originally came to ask Xiao Rong if he was cold and if he needed some warming powder. Since the Bodhisattva had a request, he would help him first.

After saying this, they left together. Yu Shaoxie did not see Qu Yunmie holding Xiao Rong's hand, nor did he see Xiao Rong say he was tired and a bit annoyed, so he withdrew his hand and turned half his body, leaning slightly against Qu Yunmie.

The Northern Pacification Army was busy, while the Northern Pacification King openly slacked off. The Xianbei people truly could not understand this behavior. Did the Northern Pacification King not care about the spoils of war? Were these Xianbei Murong nobles not worth his personal inspection?

From anger to fear, and from fear to torment, some even wished the surrounding soldiers would end their suffering. As dawn broke and sunlight streamed in, how long would they have to wait?!

Finally, the main city was cleared, and the palace was thoroughly inspected, ensuring its safety. Upon hearing this, Jian Qiao immediately went to invite Qu Yunmie and Xiao Rong. Yuan Baifu glanced at him and then looked at the room full of Xianbei nobles.

In the past, they were powerful figures who could shake both the Xianbei and Central Plains with a mere nod. Now, they were no different from commoners on the street. Despite their outward bravado, Yuan Baifu knew they were genuinely afraid.

Gongsun Yuan pushed the door open and cursed, "Bastards!"

Yuan Baifu asked, "What happened?"

Gongsun Yuan: "Emperor Murong escaped! Wang Xinyong and I searched everywhere, and we finally found a secret passage in one of the halls. It led outside the city, and he had already fled!"

Hearing this, Yuan Baifu felt a bit relieved because Qu Yunmie had repeatedly emphasized not harming Murong Qi, as he had plans for him. With Murong Qi gone, Qu Yunmie would surely be furious.

He showed no emotion but comforted Gongsun Yuan, "They won't get far. Where is Wang Xinyong? Why didn't he come back with you?"

Gongsun Yuan looked at him speechlessly. "Wang Xinyong wouldn't dare return. The King left him to guard the palace, but Murong's son escaped. He's responsible and insisted on chasing after him. By now, he must be twenty miles away."

Yuan Baifu: "..."

It turned out that Wang Xinyong made the right decision. When Qu Yunmie entered the city, his first question was where the Xianbei emperor was being held. Upon learning that Murong Qi had disappeared last night, he was livid.

"Last night? When exactly did he disappear?!"

Gongsun Yuan inwardly cursed his bad luck. Why did he follow Wang Xinyong to investigate? He should have stayed with Yuan Baifu to watch the prisoners.

But it was too late now. He could only answer humbly, "I don't know..."

Qu Yunmie: "What are you good for?! You've been investigating all this time and still don't know this!"

Gongsun Yuan felt wronged. What did this have to do with him? He had been fighting outside the city all night. The emperor escaped during the night, and he entered the city only in the morning!

Gongsun Yuan tried to defend himself, but Qu Yunmie was too angry to listen. Just as he was about to berate Gongsun Yuan again, Xiao Rong suddenly started coughing violently.

Qu Yunmie instantly turned around and rushed to Xiao Rong's side, asking anxiously, "Why are you suddenly coughing? Are you feeling cold?"

Xiao Rong took a few steps back, moving further away from Gongsun Yuan until he leaned against the wall, then nodded weakly. "Probably."

Qu Yunmie's expression grew even more concerned. He decided, "Find a place for you to rest, and then I'll send someone to bring Luo Wu here."

Xiao Rong: "..."

Luo Wu is busy tending to the wounded. Bringing her here at this critical moment would be a sin.

Xiao Rong continued to wave weakly. "No need, no need. I can hold on. You continue scolding General Gongsun, Your Majesty. I'll leave after listening."

Qu Yunmie: "............"

He glanced at Xiao Rong, then turned to Gongsun Yuan irritably. "Forget it. I know it wasn't your fault. Murong Qi, that coward, ran too fast! I must chase him; he cannot escape from the Northern Pacification Army!"

Surprised by the quick forgiveness, Gongsun Yuan jumped up and saluted Qu Yunmie. "I will accompany Your Majesty!"

Qu Yunmie: "..."

You? The one who gets lost every fifty miles?

Qu Yunmie worried he might have to go back to find Gongsun Yuan halfway through. He declined and waved at Yuan Baifu instead. "Yuan Baifu, come with me."

Yuan Baifu responded, and they were about to leave when Jian Qiao suddenly ran back. "Your Majesty! Murong Qi has appeared!"

Qu Yunmie took a second to react, then exclaimed in surprise, "He actually came back to die?"

Jian Qiao: "..."

Clearing his throat, Jian Qiao quickly added, "He didn't come willingly. He was brought back by Murong Wei, the Xianbei general. Murong Wei tied him up and threatened to see Your Majesty. Otherwise, he would kill Murong Qi."

Xiao Rong peeked out from behind and scoffed. "How interesting. There are all kinds of birds in a big forest. A defeated general holding their own emperor hostage to threaten the victorious king. Has he lost his mind completely? The Xianbei emperor is a nuisance. If he kills Murong Qi for us, it would save us trouble. Tell him that Your Majesty won't meet him and let him do what he wants!"

Jian Qiao looked at Qu Yunmie, who growled, "No!"

Xiao Rong: "..."

He looked at Qu Yunmie in surprise, as this was the first time Qu Yunmie clearly disagreed with him.

Without looking at Xiao Rong, Qu Yunmie walked down the stairs. "Where is Murong Wei? Take me to him!"

Jian Qiao hesitated for a moment before following him. Xiao Rong stood by the door, unsure how to react. Gongsun Yuan scratched his head and followed Qu Yunmie out. Thanks to the women in his household, he knew that if he didn't know what to say, it was best to say nothing. This worked with women and probably with scholars too.

Once they left, Xiao Rong pursed his lips, and then he suddenly heard a voice in his ear.

Yuan Baifu looked at him with concern and asked, "Mr. Xiao, are you alright?"

Xiao Rong: "..."*

Outside, Murong Wei held a knife in one hand and clutched the trembling Murong Qi with the other. In front of him were fully armed soldiers of the Northern Pacification Army. If Qu Yunmie did not care about Murong Qi's life, he would be finished.

But it was precisely this absurd hostage situation that actually had the Northern Pacification King in check. When Qu Yunmie arrived, he looked closely at Murong Wei and then said through gritted teeth, "Take them inside!"

Murong Wei did not resist; he went in with Murong Qi. Apart from Jian Qiao and Gongsun Yuan, as well as Qu Yunmie's personal guards, no one else followed them in.

Once inside, Qu Yunmie did not ask Murong Wei to release Murong Qi. He glared at Murong Wei and asked, "What do you want?"

Murong Wei: "I want to live."

Qu Yunmie: "How do you know bringing your emperor here will save your life?"

Murong Wei: "I don't know. The emperor is my ticket to see you. Since you're willing to meet me for this coward, I guessed right."

Qu Yunmie remained silent, only narrowing his eyes at Murong Wei.

At this moment, Murong Wei suddenly pushed Murong Qi away. Murong Qi fell to the ground, feeling both pain and sorrow. Simultaneously, something shocking happened.

Murong Wei actually knelt down before Qu Yunmie.

He took a deep breath and said to Qu Yunmie, "The Xianbei no longer exist; I have nowhere to go. Northern Pacification King, I am willing to swear allegiance to you. Murong Qi is my first offering of loyalty!"

Murong Qi looked at him in disbelief. Even when Murong Wei put the knife to his neck, he knew Murong Wei was not a good person, but he never expected Murong Wei to betray the Xianbei!

Not just him, but the entire Xianbei!

Qu Yunmie ignored Murong Qi and only asked Murong Wei, "First offering of loyalty, what's the second one?"

At this moment, Murong Wei raised his head and grinned at Qu Yunmie, "It's the thing you want."

Jian Qiao and Gongsun Yuan glanced at each other, utterly confused.

Xiao Rong was walking out unhappily, intending to find a place to sleep. He didn't care about what would happen next. Qu Yunmie had refused him in front of so many people, which was too much and completely disregarded his dignity! How annoying, couldn't they discuss things privately!

Kicking a pebble on the ground, he was about to take another step when Xiao Rong suddenly felt a familiar dizziness.

He quickly straightened his body, closed his eyes, and slowly endured the sensation. Then, he slowly turned around.

Looking at the vast palace complex before him, Xiao Rong rolled up his sleeves and stormed back angrily.