Volume One, Chapter 16: The Challenge to Pursue the Starlight (Part Two)

The Uighur envoy quickly knelt down. “I have overstepped my bounds; I beg Your Majesty’s forgiveness. Young Master Yuwen’s bravery is unparalleled in the Uighur nation. I am truly impressed. The Uighurs wish to present unprecedented treasures to the Great Sui Emperor as a token of loyalty.”

The emperor’s expression remained calm. Considering how this farce had come to an end, it was a satisfactory outcome; he had no desire to pursue the matter further. Turning his gaze to Yuwen Chengdu, he commanded, “Summon someone and announce my decree: Yuwen Chengdu shall be bestowed the title of Grand General of the Palace Guard, honored with the epithet ‘Invincible Courage, Number One Under Heaven.’ I will personally inscribe a plaque and grant him a golden medal inscribed ‘Number One Under Heaven.’ Additionally, he shall receive the Golden Armor of the Bagua Mighty Beast, the Scarlet Charcoal Fire Dragon Steed, and a reward of one thousand taels of gold.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty!” Yuwen Chengdu swept aside his cloak, kneeling with grandeur and gratitude.

In this way, there was no need for Yang Guang or Yuwen Huaji to say a word; Yuwen Chengdu had secured his position through his own outstanding performance. Moreover, it was clear that Yang Jian held him in great favor.

After the court session ended, Yuwen Huaji and several officials walked ahead, while Yuwen Chengdu trailed behind.

“General Yuwen! General Yuwen!” Suddenly, a voice called from behind. Yuwen Chengdu was still unaccustomed to being addressed this way. After the second call, he turned slowly and saw a eunuch approaching.

“General Yuwen, I am the steward of the Crown Prince’s residence. Might I have a moment to speak with you?” The eunuch was very respectful.

Though Yuwen Chengdu had no idea what this man’s intentions were, he dared not refuse rashly and followed him.

The two moved aside, and the steward produced a jade pendant from his sleeve. “General, you displayed great prowess in the hall today. Our Prince admires your strength and wishes to present this token. I hope you will accept it.”

At present, the court was divided into two factions: one led by Crown Prince Yang Yong, the other by Prince of Jin Yang Guang. Everyone knew that the Yuwen family had long supported the Prince of Jin—in other words, they posed a threat to the Crown Prince.

Thus, the attempt to win over Yuwen Chengdu was a strategic move for the future.

Though unfamiliar with palace intrigues, Yuwen Chengdu felt uneasy about accepting such a valuable gift impulsively and naturally refused.

“I appreciate your kindness, but such a precious item cannot be accepted by Chengdu. Please convey my refusal to His Highness the Crown Prince.” He repeatedly declined with a wave of his hand.

Yet the steward insisted on pressing the jade pendant into his hand, leaving Yuwen Chengdu momentarily uncertain.

“Young Master Yuwen!” At that moment, a sweet voice came from behind.

He turned to see a familiar figure running toward him—Princess Yang Xiangning.

“Greetings, Your Highness.” Both bowed to her simultaneously.

“Please, no need for formalities,” Yang Xiangning waved her hand. Noticing the jade pendant in the steward’s hand, she asked with a hint of suspicion, “What is going on here?”

“The Crown Prince sent this to General Yuwen as a gift in gratitude for his subduing the Uighur lion today,” the steward replied.

Having grown up in the inner palace, Yang Xiangning was no stranger to such matters and clearly understood the Crown Prince’s intentions. She stated plainly, “His Majesty has granted this as a personal gift to the Crown Prince. It is inappropriate to give it away. If my mother finds out, there will be trouble. Please take it back.”

With no choice, the steward saluted and prepared to leave. “Yes, I take my leave.”

Yang Xiangning had saved Yuwen Chengdu from an awkward situation, and he was deeply grateful. “Thank you, Princess, for your help.”

“It was nothing,” she waved it off, then remembered something else. “However, Young Master Yuwen has just returned and may not yet be familiar with palace affairs. You must be careful as you move about the court.”

She left it at that. Yuwen Chengdu, being intelligent, understood the warning.

“Thank you for your advice, Princess.” He bowed slightly.

“No need for thanks. I heard you were appointed Grand General?” Yang Xiangning’s information was impressively up to date.

“Yes, Your Highness,” he replied.

Her smile deepened, eyes fixed intently on him. “I knew it. With your talents, a promotion was only a matter of time.”

“Your Highness’s praise humbles me. I hear you often speak well of me before His Majesty. I am most grateful,” Yuwen Chengdu said.

“You saved my life. Every word I say is true; you need not be so formal.” Her voice was sweet and soft, like a spring breeze gently caressing his heart.

The feeling was strikingly familiar—he hadn’t experienced it since Yang Yuer comforted him in childhood. So many years had passed in the blink of an eye.

“I heard you’ll be going to the training camp tomorrow. Xiangning has an unusual request: she hopes you will teach her some martial skills so she can study under you.”

Yuwen Chengdu was surprised but quickly reacted. “No, Your Highness, you are of noble birth. The hardships of the training camp are not fit for you.”

“It’s all right. I can endure it. I want to be as skilled as you, Young Master Yuwen. That way, even when I go out to play, Father and the others won’t have to worry about me.” Her sincerity and hopeful gaze moved him.

In the end, Yuwen Chengdu could not refuse and consented.

After a brief exchange, Yuwen Chengdu returned to his residence.

No sooner had he arrived than a servant hurried over. “Eldest Young Master, the Chancellor requests your presence immediately.”

“Very well.” Though puzzled, Yuwen Chengdu obediently went.

Upon entering, he saw Yuwen Huaji standing with a stern face.

“Father…”

Still with his hands behind his back, Yuwen Huaji said nothing. Ordinarily, being made general was a cause for celebration, yet his expression was grim.

“What is the matter, Father?” Yuwen Chengdu asked, puzzled.

“Tell me, did the Crown Prince’s steward approach you?” Yuwen Huaji asked with displeasure.

“Yes. The Crown Prince wished to give me a jade pendant, but I refused it,” Yuwen Chengdu explained fully.

Hearing this, Yuwen Huaji relaxed. Political factions were always sensitive. The Crown Prince’s faction sought to win over Yuwen Chengdu now that he had risen in favor.

Even if he could not be used by them, they wished to sow discord between the Yuwen family and the Prince of Jin, severing the latter’s vital support.

“Remember, do not associate with the Crown Prince’s faction. Our family’s loyalty lies with Prince of Jin,” Yuwen Huaji admonished.

“Yes, Father, I understand.” Yuwen Chengdu had always been obedient, never once defying his father.

Yuwen Huaji’s expression finally softened. He patted Yuwen Chengdu on the shoulder. “My son, your performance today in the hall was exceptional. The Emperor praised you highly. To celebrate your appointment as general, I have arranged a family feast. Let us go and celebrate properly.”