Shuhan

In early summer, the sun is scorching. At noon, the sun is high in the sky, baking the earth hot.

At the edge of the Guanzhong Plain, at a dangerous valley entrance, a torrent of figures gradually emerged in the distance. They were the cavalry on the grassland. They were like weeds in the wind, wanton and wild.

Each of these cavalrymen rode three horses. Although the horses were strong, the armor on the riders looked shabby. Some even had their upper bodies bare, relying only on the weapons in their hands and brute force. These were the Xianbei cavalrymen who were conscripted by the Han court but actually became slaves.

Beyond the valley mouth is the vast grassland, which is their hometown. But now, they are forced to step into this unfamiliar land - the Guanzhong Plain.

On the plains, the rice fields are like mirrors, sparkling, and patches of green shine in the sun, showing the prosperity and tranquility of the Han world.

For the Xianbei people who were accustomed to a nomadic life, the scene before them was undoubtedly a huge shock. There was greed and amazement in their eyes. It was a desire for unknown wealth and a shock at the beauty of civilization.

However, this shock was soon replaced by another more primitive impulse.

Some young Xianbei cavalrymen could not suppress their inner restlessness. They roared and rushed towards the nearby villages like wild horses.

In the village, smoke was rising from cooking fires, and the place was peaceful, but it was suddenly struck by this disaster.

The villagers panicked and fled in all directions, while the Xianbei cavalry were like wolves among a flock of sheep, looting indiscriminately, taking away food, clothing, and even livestock.

At this moment, a burst of hurried horse hoof sounds broke the chaotic situation. From the distant mountains and forests, a group of elite Han soldiers dressed in black armor suddenly appeared like ghosts.

They were excellent riders, their formation was neat, and the spears in their hands flashed coldly in the sun. They seemed like the god of death walking out of hell, with irresistible majesty.

The leader, wearing red armor, was particularly eye-catching. That was Jiang Wei, a brave general of the Han Dynasty. His face was stern and his eyes were as sharp as an eagle. The blade in his hand had been stained with blood from the previous battle. Blood dripped down and splashed in the dust, forming a bunch of enchanting red flowers.

"Stop!" Jiang Wei's voice resounded throughout the valley, carrying unquestionable power.

The Xianbei cavalry who were looting were stunned when they heard this, but they did not stop what they were doing.

Seeing this, Jiang Wei frowned and a hint of coldness flashed in his eyes.

He swung the long sword in his hand violently, and the warhorse under him seemed to feel the will of its master. It let out a deafening neigh, accelerated instantly, and rushed into the enemy group.

Jiang Wei's swordsmanship was extremely sharp, and every move was just right. He never wasted any effort and never let any enemy go.

His figure shuttled among the enemy groups like dancing, but death was also with him.

Although those Xianbei cavalrymen were brave, they were as powerless as children in front of Jiang Wei.

After a while, all the Xianbei cavalrymen who rushed into the village were killed. Their bodies lay on the ground in all directions, and their blood dyed the originally peaceful land red.

After the battle, Jiang Wei slowly put away the blade. There was no joy on his face, only deep worry.

Although these Xianbei cavalrymen were recruited by the Han Dynasty, their hearts were not yet submissive. Once they had the chance, they would be as ferocious as wolves and tigers, causing great harm to the Han people.

Therefore, he had to use the most severe means to intimidate these people.

"Those who dare to rob will suffer the same fate as these people!" Jiang Wei's voice was not loud, but it was clearly heard by every Xianbei cavalryman.

His eyes were cold, as if they could see into people's hearts, causing those Xianbei cavalrymen who were ready to move to suddenly become frightened and dare not move again.

They knew that the man in front of them was not someone they could easily provoke.

At this time, at the entrance of the valley, the remaining Xianbei cavalry stood there quietly, looking at Jiang Wei and his Han army, with awe and unwillingness in their eyes.

They were once eagles on the grassland, but now they have become playthings in the hands of others. This feeling is hard for them to accept.

But the reality is cruel, they must obey, otherwise, what awaits them will be even more cruel punishment.

Tufa Shoutian, the leader of the Tufa tribe, was sitting on a tall warhorse, looking very majestic.

His face, carved by the wind and frost of the grassland, appears firm and profound.

Wearing the armor of the Xianbei Khan, which was carved with intricate totems, every stroke revealed the wildness and power of the grassland.

He had a long bird feather stuck in his head, which was a symbol of his identity and also a sign of his respect for Changshengtian.

His face was painted with the pattern of Eternal Heaven, which was revered by the Xianbei people. It was a mysterious ritual that made him look more majestic.

Tuoba Shoutian's eyes were as sharp as an eagle's as he scanned the surroundings.

When he saw his own troops being slaughtered by the Han army, anger surged in his heart.

But soon, he suppressed his anger, because he knew that now was not the time to lose his temper.

He must be patient and bide his time.

At this time, Jiang Wei rode over on horseback, his red armor was particularly eye-catching in the sun, like a burning flame.

He came in front of Tuoba Shoutian, staring into his eyes with a sharp gaze.

When Tufa Shoutian felt Jiang Wei's gaze, he couldn't help but feel a chill in his heart, but he did not retreat. Instead, he met Jiang Wei's gaze.

"Please restrain your troops." Jiang Wei's voice was calm and firm.

"Guanzhong is not a grassland. Anyone who dares to plunder will be killed without mercy!"

There was an unquestionable majesty in his tone, as if he was declaring a decree that could not be disobeyed.

Tufa Shoutian took a deep breath, he knew he couldn't fight head-on.

Although he was the Great Khan of Xianbei, he dared not not come when the Han Emperor summoned him. He was originally supported by the Han State. If he became an enemy of the Han State, how could he have the power on the grassland?
He must be patient and bide his time.

"Don't worry, General." Tufa Shoutian's voice was low and powerful.

"If this happens again, I will kill you."

There was a hint of coldness in his eyes, but he quickly concealed it.

Now is not the time to be an enemy of the Han army. He must conserve his strength and wait for an opportunity.

Jiang Wei looked at Tuoba Shoutian and knew that this Xianbei Khan was not someone who could be easily tamed.

But his eyes revealed a firmness and determination that made Jiang Wei believe that he would keep his promise.

Jiang Wei nodded to show his satisfaction.

Then he turned and left and returned to the Han army.

Tuoba Shoutian looked at Jiang Wei's back, with a complex emotion welling up in his heart.

He hated the Han people's strength and tyranny, but also envied their civilization and wealth.

Although his own people were brave and good at fighting, they seemed so crude and barbaric in the face of the Han people's civilization.

He had to change this situation and integrate his people into the Han world in order to gain a foothold in this land.

He took a deep breath and shouted loudly: "Listen up, my men! From today on, whoever dares to rob again will be an enemy of Tuoba Shoutian! I will kill him with my own hands!"

His voice echoed throughout the valley, and every Xianbei cavalryman could hear it clearly.

Upon hearing this, the Xianbei cavalrymen all lowered their heads to show their obedience.

They knew that Tuoba Shoutian was not joking and he would really kill someone.

Moreover, they also knew that the Guanzhong Plain was not a grassland, and the rules here were different from those in the grassland.

They must adapt to life here, otherwise they will become wandering ghosts on this land like those tribesmen who were killed.

Tuoba Shoutian looked at his followers and a feeling of pride surged in his heart.

Although he is temporarily inferior to others, one day he will regain his own glory and power.

He will let everyone know that the men of the Tufa tribe are not sheep to be slaughtered, but eagles on the grassland!

On the second day, the 20,000 cavalrymen of the Nuer Army were stationed on the north bank of the Wei River like a dark cloud, with their tents scattered all over the place and smoke rising from their cooking fires, forming a sharp contrast with the city of Chang'an in the distance.

Tufa Shoutian and Jiang Wei rode side by side, their shadows lengthened in the morning sun.

Tuoba Shoutian was dressed in gorgeous Xianbei clothing, with a bird feather crown on his head and mysterious totems painted on his face. His eyes showed both curiosity about the unknown and longing for the future.

Jiang Wei was dressed in red armor, looking heroic. His eyes were firm and calm, as if he had seen through the storms ahead.

When the outline of Chang'an City gradually came into view, Tubo Shoutian could not help but be shocked by this magnificent city.

He had never seen such tall city walls, such prosperous streets, and such an orderly layout.

A feeling of awe welled up in his heart, and at the same time, an indescribable ambition arose.

He realized that only by integrating into this land could he make his tribe stronger.

After passing through the bustling streets, they finally arrived at the gate of the Han Palace.

The palace is towering into the clouds and magnificent, as if the palace from heaven has descended to earth.

Tufa Shoutian looked up, feeling an indescribable sense of inferiority in his heart.

He thought of the tent he lived in, which was like a doghouse compared to this palace.

He secretly vowed to make his tribe as powerful and prosperous.

Led by the palace servants, they passed through numerous palace gates and corridors.

Tufa Shoutian's heart beat faster and he felt an unprecedented sense of tension.

He knew that he was about to face the Emperor of the Han Dynasty, the supreme ruler of this land.

Finally, they arrived at the Xuanshi Hall.

The Xuanshi Hall is spacious and bright, magnificent and golden. A young emperor sits on the dragon throne in the center.

Liu Chan was wearing a dragon robe, a crown on his head, a handsome face, and sharp eyes. He exuded an aura of majesty without anger, which made people dare not look directly at him.

Tuoba Shoutian only glanced at the emperor, then quickly lowered his head, prostrated himself on the ground, and bowed respectfully: "Your Majesty, I am Tuoba Shoutian, and I pay my respects to you. Long live your Majesty!"

His voice was trembling but firm, full of awe and submission.

The emperor nodded slightly, signaling him to stand up. Tuoba Shoutian stood up cautiously. He did not dare to look directly into the emperor's eyes, but lowered his head, waiting for the emperor's instructions.

The emperor's voice echoed in the Xuanshi Hall: "Tufa Shoutian, you are the leader of the Xianbei tribe. It is wise for you to serve me. I hope you can be loyal and serve me. You will get benefits."

Upon hearing this, Tufa Shoutian felt relieved.

As long as the emperor did not doubt his loyalty, he could continue to serve as the Xianbei Khan.

He quickly replied: "Your Majesty, rest assured that I will be loyal and serve you wholeheartedly, and I will never slack off in the slightest."

In the following time, the emperor had in-depth conversations with Tuoba Shoutian and Jiang Wei.

They discussed the situation on the grassland, the organization of the slave army, and future combat plans.

Although Tuoba Shoutian had some reservations in his heart, he behaved very humbly and submissively in front of the emperor.

He knew that he had to obey the emperor's orders in order to gain a foothold in this land.

After the conversation, the emperor gave them a banquet.

At the banquet, there was a wide variety of delicious food, melodious music and graceful dancing.

Tufa Shoutian was shocked by the feast. He had never seen such a prosperous and lively scene.

However, behind the prosperity and bustle, Tufa Shoutian also felt the majesty and power of the Han emperor.

This young emperor changed the situation in the world in just a few years. His wisdom and courage are awe-inspiring.

Tufa Shoutian realized that he had to be careful in order to survive in this land.

As long as the Emperor of the Han Dynasty is alive, he will not dare to make any moves!
As night falls, the noise of the banquet gradually fades away, and the palace lanterns sway, casting mottled light and shadows, adding a bit of mystery to the quiet night.

Tuoba Shoutian's face was flushed with alcohol and his steps were slightly unsteady. He left slowly with the help of his servants. His back stretched out in the dim light, as if telling his unknown thoughts.

Liu Chan stood on the high platform of the palace, watching him go away, a barely perceptible worry flashed across his eyes, then he turned around and walked into a quiet room that was simply decorated yet solemn.

In the quiet room, the candlelight is soft and the air is filled with a faint scent of agarwood, making it seem particularly peaceful.

Liu Chan sat in the main seat, brows slightly frowned, as if he was thinking about some important decision.

After a moment, he opened his lips slightly and whispered to Huang Hao, the eunuch standing beside him: "Call Jiang Wei to see you."

Huang Hao took the order and quietly left the quiet room. After a while, he led Jiang Wei in. Although Jiang Wei also participated in the dinner, compared with Tufa Shoutian's drunken state, he seemed more sober, with a steady pace and an indomitable tenacity in his eyes.

Huang Hao handed over a bowl of warm hangover soup at the right time. Jiang Wei took it, drank it all in one gulp, and then wiped the corner of his mouth. He looked more energetic.

Liu Chan's gaze fell on Jiang Wei. It was a deep and complex look that contained both trust and expectation.

"Jiang Wei, do you think that Tubo Shoutian is really loyal to our Han Dynasty?" Liu Chan's voice was not loud, but every word was powerful, revealing the majesty of an emperor.

Jiang Wei bowed slightly and answered solemnly, "Your Majesty, Tufa Shoutian is ambitious and very patient. When the Han Dynasty is at its peak, he will not dare to act rashly. But if the Han Dynasty weakens, he will take the opportunity to retaliate. We must be on guard."

Jiang Wei's words revealed his deep insight into Tufa Shoutian and his concern about the future situation.

Upon hearing this, Liu Chan nodded slightly, a hint of approval flashed in his eyes. Obviously, he had a premonition about Jiang Wei's judgment.

Although Tuoba Shoutian's respect at the banquet seemed sincere, under Liu Chan's sharp gaze, those subtle changes in expression did not escape his eyes.

He spoke again, his tone more serious: "Is there anyone in the Tufa tribe who can replace him?"

Jiang Wei pondered for a moment and said slowly, "There are indeed a few candidates, but forgive me for being frank. Once these people gain power, they will probably become as ambitious as Tufa Shoutian. The tribes on the grassland have always been like this. Changing the soup but not the medicine can only maintain control over the grassland temporarily, but cannot fundamentally solve the grassland problem."

After hearing this, Liu Chan fell into deep thought.

The character of the grassland people is very different from that of the Central Plains. Simply conquering or weakening them by force can only be a temporary solution, not a fundamental solution.

He slowly stood up, walked to the window, looked at the vast night sky outside, and an unprecedented sense of mission surged in his heart.

"Perhaps, what we need is a more far-reaching strategy. Using Buddhism to tame the grasslands, win over the nobles, and exploit the herders, although the means are cruel, they can also gain long-term control over the grasslands. Can our Han Dynasty also learn from this and find a way to stabilize the grasslands and protect the interests of our Han Dynasty?"

There are actually many things we can learn from the way the Qing Dynasty later ruled the grassland.

When Jiang Wei heard this, his eyes flashed. He felt Liu Chan's extraordinary determination and wisdom.

"Your Majesty is right. In the grasslands, we need to overcome hardness with softness. Cultural penetration and military deterrence go hand in hand to ensure long-term peace and stability. We can send envoys to spread the culture of the Central Plains. At the same time, we can strengthen border defense and establish an effective management system so that the grassland tribes can feel the majesty of the Han Dynasty and enjoy the grace of civilization."

Liu Chan turned around and met Jiang Wei's eyes. Both of them had a vision for the future in their eyes.

"Okay, I'll leave this matter to you. Remember, we want more than just the temporary submission of the grassland. We also want to integrate it into the embrace of our Han Dynasty and make it an inseparable part of our Han Dynasty."

Jiang Wei bowed respectfully and left.

Liu Chan stayed alone in the quiet room, looking at the gradually extinguishing candlelight, with endless thoughts surging in his heart.

There are no two days in the sky.

He, Liu Chan, was both the emperor of the Han people and the Khan of the grassland people.

This road will not be smooth, but for the sake of the Han Dynasty's eternal prosperity and for the peace and prosperity of the vast grassland, he is willing to shoulder this heavy responsibility.

The night was still deep, but in this deep palace, a plan for the future of the grassland had quietly begun. (End of this chapter)