Return of the Swallow

Chapter 65: A Verbal Agreement

Weichi Yan was standing in the study, arms crossed within his sleeves. His head was lowered, seemingly deep in thought. He was wearing an exceedingly common light-brown cotton robe today, his hair neatly wrapped up in a traditional, black headband. He looked like any regular noble son, completely different from his usual elegant and royal appearance. It seems he had taken great caution with this trip.

Perhaps he’s discovered the spies by his side. Qin Huaiyuan arrested his line of thought as he entered the study. Weichi Yan caught sight of his teacher and pulled himself from his musings, bowing. “Grand Preceptor Qin.”

“Greetings to Your Highness.” Qin Huaiyuan gave the grand gesture of greeting.

“Please, don’t stand on ceremony.” Weichi Yan reached out. “Have I inconvenienced you with this unexpected visit?”

“Don’t say that, Your Highness. Your visit brings but glory and honor to my abode. Is anything the matter?” The two took their seats in rounded chairs as Qitai offered tea. The follower then thoughtfully closed the door and stood guard some ways away.

Weichi Yan began with a slight frown. “There are indeed two important matters to discuss today. The Prince of Ning’s people has sent word from Xihua that Great Zhou has started fighting again. The two armies have engaged each other at that city.”

Qin Huaiyuan listened with a furrowed brow. Xihua was close to the capital and housed an important port. It was a vital transportation nexus for Great Yan, by land or water. Great Yan would fall much faster if it was taken.

The crown prince also sighed with resignation when he saw Qin Huaiyuan’s solemn expression. “Xihua’s two defending generals are surnamed Sun, your brothers-in-law. I wonder how they’re doing.”

“My brothers-in-law will give their all for their country. Even to their last breath, they will defend that city. However, it is certain that our chances of victory would only increase if we hold that city.” Qin Huaiyuan’s frown deepened. “This is timely news. In a matter of a day or two, it will become common knowledge in court, which will give rise to another set of debates. We will have to come up with a plan of attack.”

Weichi Yan nodded, but his voice held more than a tinge of weariness. “What use is all the clamoring in court? Is Great Zhou afraid of our curses and insults? If that really worked, I wouldn’t mind spending my days on how to curse like a sailor. The most important thing is that we secure a victory over Great Zhou. The Prince of Ning is of a mind to take the field, but my royal father isn’t giving permission for now.”