Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

Although Ma Chao had solemnly promised his father, Ma Teng, that he would wait until spring to attack the Xiongnu's Zuoxian King, he had actually already secretly sent a message to the generals stationed in Longxi, requesting Xu Huang, Pang De, Ma Dai, and other generals to return to Xiliang with their troops as soon as possible. He had also been secretly making intensive preparations in secret. He and Zhou Yu and Sun Ce allocated food and fodder, and prepared military equipment, meticulously scrupulously ensuring every detail.

Just as everyone was still stunned and hadn't recovered, shocking news suddenly arrived from the Western Liang border. The Eastern Qiang tribes of Ohe Shaoge and Shaodang had led their armies, accompanied by Xiongnu envoys. Each of them was carrying valuable treasures and beautiful women. They arrived in a grand ceremony to present gifts to Ma Chao. The procession snaked like a dragon, flags fluttering, and the clatter of horses' hooves and wheels intertwined, shaking the ground slightly.

Upon hearing this news, Ma Chao couldn't help but feel a wave of confusion. He muttered to himself, "Why are the Dong Qiang intertwined with the Xiongnu again?" His brow furrowed, his gaze pensive and anxious. Ma Chao was furious at the Xiongnu's uninvited arrival. His eyes blazed with anger, and his hands unconsciously clenched into fists, as if to vent his rage. But why were the Dong Qiang involved? This complex situation left Ma Chao perplexed, like a fog, and he was completely baffled. He paced back and forth in his tent, his mind racing through various possible explanations and countermeasures.

The eight cavalry generals of Xiliang—Cheng Yin, Hou Xuan, Yang Qiu, and others—also received the news and, bearing generous gifts, rushed to Wuwei for the meeting. Suddenly, one general reported the imminent arrival of one, while another announced that another general would not visit. Various reports poured in. This constant flow of messengers carrying news to Xiliang was a constant stream. The constant flow of people and information even alarmed Ma Teng.

Ma Teng hurriedly discussed this with Ma Chao. Ma Chao was also somewhat bewildered and filled with confusion, completely unsure of what was going on. "Never mind that for now," he said. "Let's prepare to welcome the arrivals from all over. You're spending the New Year in Xiliang this year, and since the surrounding garrisons and foreign leaders are all here, let's give them a good shake so they don't dare make any moves." Ma Chao replied, "That's all very well, but we were originally planning to attack the Left Xiongnu's Zuo Xian King in the spring, and now he's sent envoys again. I heard he's even offered gold, silver, and beautiful women. In my opinion, we should just send them back." Ma Teng shook his head and said, "Chao'er, don't be impatient. We still need to meet him. The Han Dynasty is currently experiencing political unrest. Although the Emperor has made the decision to return the capital to Chang'an, and while things may appear normal on the surface, since Lord Dong's death, these princes have seized power. The Central Plains is in turmoil. We should refrain from rashly starting a war."

Ma Chao listened to his father's words. Although he still felt unhappy, he also felt that they made sense. He replied, "Father, you have considered it carefully. I will listen to you."

Wuwei was bustling with activity, as it welcomed the envoys from around the world. The streets and alleys were bustling with people, the cries of vendors echoed incessantly, and inns and taverns were packed with guests. The roads were bustling with traffic, and people of all kinds were passing through, some hurried, some leisurely.

Within a few days, various forces arrived in Wuwei one after another and stationed themselves outside the city, eagerly awaiting news of a summons from Ma Teng and Ma Chao. However, Ma Teng and Ma Chao showed no eagerness to summon their generals, leaving everyone anxious and bewildered, wondering why Ma Teng and Ma Chao had been so slow to address them. Everyone discussed the situation privately, but remained baffled.

The only time the city gates were opened wide, and Ma Chao even personally came out to greet them, was when King Cheliji of the Western Qiang arrived with his princess and crown prince. That day, Ma Chao, Sun Ce, and Zhou Yu waited outside the city gates early, their expressions solemn and filled with anticipation. Other leaders and generals, hearing the news, eagerly sought a meeting with Ma Chao, hoping for his attention and instructions. But Ma Chao offered no further conversation, simply insisting they await news of the banquet, without question. The generals exchanged glances, resentful but unaware. Ma Chao's prestige in Xiliang was now as immense as a towering mountain; no one dared to challenge his will. His unparalleled reputation instilled awe in the men, forcing them to obey.

Ma Chao and Cheliji reminisced affectionately, Ma Chao beaming as he embraced Cheliji's son, his affection evident, almost ecstatic. Cheliji's son, now over two years old, dressed like a little warrior, clad in a thick fur coat, yet still unable to contain his inner excitement. In Ma Chao's arms, the little fellow couldn't stay still, fiddling with the jade pendant Ma Chao was wearing, tugging at his cloak. His playful, playful demeanor delighted Ma Chao, his hearty laughter echoing through the air.

Looking at the scene before him, Cheliji smiled and said to Ma Chao, "My dear brother, you are now very famous in the northwest region. Whether it is Xiliang or the surrounding tribes, they all praise General Shenwei Tian."

Ma Chao smiled and said, "Brother, you are too kind. Since this autumn, the Jie and Di peoples have been rebellious, so I have sent my men out for some training."

Cheliji continued, "Indeed, the Di people are indeed excessive. These guys seem to have only just been civilized. When pushed to the limit, they even eat people. They are truly beasts who eat raw meat and drink blood."

Ma Chao said, "That's right. We live in a cold and harsh borderland. If we don't use force to deter these small tribes, who knows what kind of rogues will emerge."

Cheliji nodded and said, "My dear brother, what you said is very true. However, now that you are famous, I believe they will not dare to act rashly."

Ma Chao frowned slightly and said, "That being said, we still cannot be careless and must be on guard at all times."

Cheliji responded, "Of course, my dear brother always does things in a thorough manner."

The two chatted for a long time and the atmosphere was harmonious.

Finally, the envoys from the Eastern Qiang and Xiongnu tribes arrived outside Wuwei City. They gazed upon the endless, intertwined camps of troops led by tribal leaders and generals from across Xiliang. The meticulously organized military formations and fluttering banners made the envoys from Xiliang, led by the Xiongnu Left Wise King, tremble in fear. They felt this mission was a difficult one, and it was likely to be dangerous.

The three tribal leaders, Shaodang Qiang and Ehe Shaoge, were all too cautious. Although they had heard of Ma Chao's might, witnessing this spectacular sight with their own eyes had further reaffirmed their conviction. Upon their arrival, they dared not delay and first presented their visiting cards to Wuwei City.

However, Ma Chao and Ma Teng did not make an appearance. Instead, they ordered the sons of the various Eastern Qiang tribal leaders to meet their fathers within their territory. Seeing their sons thriving and strong, and speaking with clear, coherent logic, the leaders of the Ehe Shaoge and Shaodang Qiang tribes were secretly pleased. They had already been intimidated by the military might of the Western Liang, but now, seeing that Ma Chao had so casually released his sons to meet them, and that they seemed to have no problem with these sons, who were nominally here to learn but were in reality hostages, their resolve to serve the Western Liang was even stronger. They knew that following such a magnanimous and powerful lord would offer them a brighter future.

Finally, after all the forces had gathered in Wuwei, Ma Chao and his son, Ma Teng, made their hurried appearance. They had pitched a vast tent on a vast expanse outside the city, no less grand than the Qiang king's tent. From afar, it resembled a towering palace. Its walls were woven from sturdy brocade, embroidered with symbols of power and majesty. Atop it fluttered a dazzling array of colorful banners, rustling in the wind.

Ma Teng, father of General Shenwei Tian and nominal ruler of Xiliang, sat majestically at the head of the throne. He was adorned with a resplendent brocade robe and a jewel-encrusted jade belt. His gaze shone brightly, his presence imbued with a commanding presence, radiating the demeanor of a regional leader. Ma Chao and Sun Ce, along with the eight Xiliang cavalry commanders, sat on his left, each awe-inspiring and imposing. Clad in gleaming armor, the red tassels of their helmets fluttered in the wind, their swords at their waists gleamed with a cold light. Their resolute faces and upright postures seemed to declare their bravery and fearlessness.

King Cheliji of the Western Qiang, along with other leaders of the various tribes, including the Jie, Di, and Xiongnu envoys, sat on the right. Some looked nervous, others feigned composure, but their gazes were filled with awe at the feast. Outside the tents, the stalwart and courageous Western Liang cavalry, led by Pang De, Xu Huang, and others, patrolled and marched. Their steps were measured, the clatter of their hooves deafening like thunder. Each soldier was a burly figure, their muscles taut, wielding sharp spears and heavy shields. Their stern gazes seemed to penetrate any enemy defense. The sunlight shone off their armor, reflecting a dazzling light that frightened anyone who looked directly at them.

The entire scene was solemn and dignified, filled with a tense and delicate atmosphere. The air was thick with tension, as various factions secretly observed each other, speculating on the true purpose of this gathering. But in this awe-inspiring atmosphere, no one dared to act rashly, waiting for Ma Teng and his son's words.