Eastern Han Dynasty, not the Three Kingdoms

Ma Chao led the leaders of the Eastern Qiang tribes slowly into the city. The people of Wuwei lined the streets to greet them. Despite the hardships of war, their enthusiasm remained undimmed, and they all cast friendly glances at these visitors from afar. Children looked on curiously, some even chasing after the group, eager to see what was going on.

The group arrived at the mansion and, after their respective seats were taken, Ma Chao ordered his servants to serve a sumptuous feast. The atmosphere was lively and lively, with everyone chatting and laughing. Leader E He was the first to rise, raising his wine bowl. With a sincere and somewhat eager expression, he said, "Your Majesty, we have come here, firstly, to express our gratitude to you, and secondly, to ask for a favor."

Ma Chao nodded slightly, his eyes gently gesturing for him to continue. Leader Ehe took a deep breath and spoke earnestly, "Your Majesty, the Eastern Qiang have experienced the harassment of the Midang tribe. We know that without Your Majesty's protection, we would struggle to survive in these troubled times. Now, we, the Eastern Qiang, earnestly request to be fully integrated into Western Liang, to become Your Majesty's direct subordinates, with no further estrangement."

Ma Chao was slightly taken aback. Before he could say anything, Shao Ge's leader stood up and solemnly agreed, "Yes, Your Majesty. Although General Pang Rou, the Protector of the Qiang, is stationed in Eastern Qiang and has made effective arrangements to help us resist the enemy, we still feel that only by becoming Your Majesty's direct subordinates can we truly have the most solid support and feel at ease."

The leader of the Shaodang tribe immediately stood up, clasped his fists, and said, "We are willing to obey the king's orders. Whether it is to send troops to fight or to work in production, the people of Dongqiang have no complaints. We only hope to become a part of Xiliang."

Ma Chao was deeply moved. He slowly stood up and looked at the crowd with a sincere gaze. Just as he was about to respond, a thought suddenly struck him. His expression grew solemn, and after a moment's reflection, he said, "I, Ma Chao, am deeply honored and understand your kindness, leaders. However, this matter requires further consideration. As you know, King Cheliji of the Western Qiang and I are sworn brothers, and both the Eastern and Western Qiang are descendants of the ancient Qiang State. If the Eastern Qiang were completely absorbed into Western Liang, I fear that Brother Cheliji would be unhappy."

Upon hearing this, Chief Ehe frowned slightly, his face showing hesitation. Chief Shaoge also fell into deep thought, unsure how to respond. Chief Shaodang said, "Your Majesty is absolutely right. Although we are devoted to you, we cannot ignore the friendship of the Western Qiang. However, we truly long for a stable support."

Ma Chao observed the expressions of the crowd, understanding their concerns and hopes. He said, "How about this? Everyone, please stay in Wuwei for now. I will discuss this with Brother Cheliji and then make a final decision. No matter what, I will not let the people of Dongqiang down, and I will also take into account the friendship of all parties involved."

After hearing Ma Chao's words, everyone felt a little disappointed, but they also understood that what he said made sense, so they nodded in agreement. The atmosphere at the banquet became a little solemn due to this discussion, but everyone also hoped that Ma Chao and Cheliji would come up with a proper solution after communicating.

Two days later, the atmosphere in Wuwei City returned to normal. The people, reeling from the disaster, gradually resumed their normal routines. However, a scout on the city wall suddenly cried out urgently, "A large force is approaching Wuwei from afar!" This news instantly shattered the city's tranquility, and the soldiers quickly went on alert.

Ma Chao was in his mansion discussing military and political affairs with his staff when he heard the news. He was struck by the possibility that Cheliji was involved. He immediately dropped his work, dressed neatly, and went out to meet him. When he arrived outside the city gate, he could see from afar a large, dusty procession galloping towards Wuwei. Leading the way was the imposing and imposing Cheliji, atop a towering steed. He was accompanied by a group of Qiang people dressed in distinctive attire. At his side, an exceptionally large man led a group of Jie people.

As the troops approached, Cheliji spotted Ma Chao standing in front of the city gate, and a bright smile immediately broke out on his face. He dismounted his horse and strode towards Ma Chao. Ma Chao also hurried forward to meet him. The two of them hugged each other tightly, like close relatives reunited after a long separation, patting each other's backs vigorously and exchanging caring greetings.

Ma Chao was the first to release his embrace, his eyes full of smiles as he asked, "Brother, why did you suddenly come?"

Cheliji laughed heartily, his laughter as resounding as a bell. He patted Ma Chao on the shoulder and said, "My dear brother, you have been away fighting for many years, traveling all over the country. It's rare for you to have a peaceful time. If it weren't for the foreign tribes stirring up trouble and causing chaos in the world, you would never have returned to Xiliang. When I heard you were in Wuwei, I couldn't help but come to see you."

Ma Chao nodded slightly, his eyes casually glancing at the unfamiliar Jie leader beside Cheliji. A trace of inquiry flashed in his eyes, and then he asked with concern, "Brother, I heard that the Jie tribe was in turmoil before. Has it been pacified now?"

Cheliji said: "Oh, this is all thanks to you, brother! You led the army to wipe out the Di people who led the rebellion, and also sent the head of the Di leader to us. When the news spread, the Jie people were frightened out of their wits, and no longer dared to resist. I went to pacify it this time, and the process was relatively smooth. Look, this guy is the Jie leader, I specially brought him here for you to deal with and command." As he said, he pulled the Jie leader's arm hard and pushed him forward.

Ma Chao's expression remained calm. He merely raised his eyes, glanced briefly at the Jie leader, and then looked away, as if he wasn't worthy of his attention. Then, with a calm yet dignified gesture, he raised his hand slightly, signaling everyone to enter the city.

After welcoming everyone into the mansion, Ma Chao immediately ordered his servants to set up a banquet in the spacious hall. In a short while, fine wine and delicious food were brought to the table like water, and the rich aroma filled the entire hall.

During the banquet, as everyone was toasting, the trembling Jie leader suddenly sank heavily to his knees with a thud. He placed his hands on the ground, his forehead pressed tightly against the ground, and said in a trembling voice, "General Shenwei Tian's reputation is known far and wide. I was blinded by greed and made an unforgivable mistake. I now regret it. I hope the general will be magnanimous and forgive me this time. I am willing to lead the Jie tribe in sincere surrender. From now on, I will do whatever the general orders me to do, and I will go through fire and water without hesitation!"

Ma Chao's expression was stern, his eyes brimming with undeniable authority. He spoke coldly, "You Jie people have already rebelled once before. Xiliang has always been kind and magnanimous, sparing you and giving you a chance to mend your ways. Yet, now, you have colluded with the enemy and committed crimes again. The Di people who colluded with you have been completely exterminated. Xiliang, from top to bottom, is united in its defense of this land, and we have no shortage of fickle and unrepentant people like you."

When the Jie leader heard this, he was so frightened that his whole body shook like a sieve. He kowtowed faster and faster, and his forehead hit the ground with a dull "bang bang" sound. In a panic, he caught a glimpse of Cheliji out of the corner of his eye, as if he had grabbed the last straw, and looked at him for help.

Seeing this, Ma Chao slowly turned his head, looked at Cheliji with a gentle gaze, and said, "Brother, since you have captured this Jie leader, it is up to you to decide how to deal with him."

Cheliji took a sip from his wine glass, pondered for a moment, and then said slowly, "Brother, in my opinion, we should find a proper solution. Disperse and settle these Jie people in different places. Select the young and strong men from their tribes and enlist them in the army. Let them serve as vanguards, and atone for their past mistakes. This way, they can pay the price for their actions, and also have the opportunity to serve Xiliang and start a new life."

At this moment, Jia Xu, who had been sitting quietly by the side with a calm expression, gently put down his wine glass, glanced at the crowd, and slowly spoke, "General, General Cheliji is absolutely right. However, we can also allow the Qiang and Jie to coexist. This will not only make it easier to supervise the Jie and prevent them from causing further trouble, but also promote mutual integration between the two tribes and enhance mutual understanding and trust. As for the Jie who participated in the rebellion, they can be transferred to serve as death squads. On the battlefield, death squads can often play an unexpected role. This may completely resolve this incident and bring the Jie tribe back to their side."

Ma Chao nodded slightly, his eyes showing approval. He felt that this plan was feasible. Not only would it properly deal with the Jie tribe, but it would also turn enemies into friends and strengthen Xiliang's strength. Upon hearing this, the Jie leader kowtowed repeatedly in gratitude, his forehead stained with blood.

At this moment, the Eastern Qiang leaders, including E'he, Shaoge, and Shaodang, exchanged a glance, their eyes gleaming with determination. They all rose, bowed respectfully to Ma Chao, and declared in unison, "Your Majesty, we have previously expressed our desire to join Western Liang, and we implore your grace to do so. All of us, from the Eastern Qiang, are willing to follow you and contribute our humble share to the prosperity of Western Liang."

Ma Chao turned his gaze towards Cheliji, his eyes filled with inquiry and respect, and said, "Brother, what are your thoughts? The annexation of the Eastern Qiang into the Western Liang is no small matter. I hope you will speak frankly."

Cheliji's expression was calm, without a trace of resentment in his eyes. Instead, he smiled with satisfaction and said generously, "That's exactly what happened! Dongqiang and Xiliang are neighbors, and have close ties. Now that they're incorporated into Xiliang, it's a good thing for us to develop together with you, brother. How could I object?"

Seeing Cheliji's statement, Ma Chao no longer felt any worries. A relieved smile appeared on his face, and he said loudly, "Okay! Since my brother agrees, from now on, Dongqiang will be officially incorporated into Xiliang. I will not let you down. I will ensure that the people of Dongqiang live and work in peace and contentment on this land of Xiliang, and create a bright future together with the people of Xiliang!"

Upon hearing this, everyone rose and toasted their glasses. The clinking of glasses created a clear, melodious sound, as if cheering for the successful resolution of these issues. For a moment, the atmosphere at the banquet was incredibly lively, and laughter echoed throughout the hall. The dust had settled on these events, and it seemed to herald a new and promising chapter in Xiliang's development. Under Ma Chao's leadership, Xiliang would be revitalized with new vitality and vigor.