Lin Xiu Wen unfolded the Urgent Report, his expression changing dramatically.
"What happened?" Su Wanqing asked with concern.
Lin Xiu Wen handed the Urgent Report to everyone. "There is unrest among the factions in the Northern Border. Ashide's uncle, A Shimi, has staged a coup and declared himself Khan."
Ashide was taken aback. "What? Uncle...?"
Liu Rumei immediately spoke up, "Your Majesty, I am willing to lead the troops to quell the rebellion!"
But Lin Xiu Wen shook his head. "No, this time I must go personally."
Su Wanqing expressed her worries. "But Your Majesty has just ascended the throne, the Court..."
"That is why I need you to stay behind," Lin Xiu Wen said, looking at the three women. "Wanqing, you will oversee the state. Rumei, you will remain in the capital. Ashide..."
Ashide firmly declared, "I want to return to the Northern Border with Your Majesty."
Lin Xiu Wen nodded. "Alright."
The next day, Lin Xiu Wen set off secretly for the Northern Border with Ashide and a contingent of elite soldiers.
On the way, Ashide recounted the complex situation in the Northern Border. "My uncle has always been dissatisfied that my father passed the Khan position to me," she sighed. "He has colluded with some Tribal Leaders and wants to..."
Lin Xiu Wen took her hand reassuringly. "Do not worry; I am here."
Upon arriving at the Northern Border, Lin Xiu Wen did not immediately deploy troops but instead secretly summoned several Tribal Leaders.
"Gentlemen," Lin Xiu Wen stated directly, "I know you have been coerced by A Shimi. If you choose to abandon the darkness and embrace the light, I will not hold it against you."
The leaders exchanged glances, one hesitatingly said, "But our families are in A Shimi's hands..."
Lin Xiu Wen smiled. "You need not worry about that. I have already sent people to rescue them."
Just then, Liu Rumei suddenly appeared. "Your Majesty, the mission is complete."
It turned out that Lin Xiu Wen had anticipated A Shimi would take hostages and had sent Liu Rumei to infiltrate enemy lines and rescue them in advance.
Seeing this, several leaders knelt down. "We are willing to serve Your Majesty!"
With inside support secured, Lin Xiu Wen quickly formulated a battle plan.
On the day of the decisive battle, Lin Xiu Wen personally led his troops into action while Ashide commanded a squad of elite soldiers directly towards A Shimi's main tent.
In the midst of the chaotic battle, Lin Xiu Wen discovered that there were indeed people from the Central Plains among Ashina's troops.
"Just as I thought," Lin Xiu Wen sneered, "the Court still has Remnants."
At that moment, a cold arrow suddenly shot towards Lin Xiu Wen.
"Your Majesty, be careful!" Ashide leaped forward and blocked the arrow for Lin Xiu Wen.
Lin Xiu Wen was taken aback. "Ashide!"
Ashide managed a weak smile. "Your Majesty... I'm fine..."
Furious, Lin Xiu Wen took to the battlefield himself and quickly routed the enemy forces.
Seeing the tide turn against him, A Shimi attempted to flee but was captured by Liu Rumei.
After the battle, Lin Xiu Wen stood by Ashide's bedside.
"Your Majesty..." Ashide said weakly, "I have a request..."
"Speak."
"I want... to stay in the Northern Border." Tears welled in Ashide's eyes. "This is my home..."
Lin Xiu Wen held her hand. "Very well. I appoint you as Northern King, with hereditary rights."
Ashide expressed her gratitude. "Thank you, Your Majesty..."
At that moment, Su Wanqing's Secret Letter arrived.
Lin Xiu Wen opened it and his expression changed drastically.
"What is it?" Ashide asked with concern.
Lin Xiu Wen replied gravely, "Someone in the Court is plotting a coup while I am away."
He immediately summoned his trusted advisors for a discussion.
"Your Majesty," Ashide insisted despite her weakened state, "let me lead troops back to assist."
Lin Xiu Wen shook his head. "Your injuries are not healed; it's unwise to travel far. Moreover..." A glint of determination flashed in his eyes, "I have a better plan."
He turned to Liu Rumei. "Rumei, take a team of elite soldiers and return to the capital secretly. Remember, do not alert the enemy."
Liu Rumei understood. "Your Majesty intends to..."
"Not bad," Lin Xiu Wen smiled, "Let them think I am still at the Northern Border, so they will lower their guard."
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