"You should seek out that young emperor," Yang Qing repeated.
"Though taking Western Chu would greatly strengthen Northern Liang, it would bring him no benefit whatsoever."
Yang Qing looked at Jiang Zhizhou. "His Majesty surely understands that himself."
"If he wishes to remain secure on his throne, he must decide what to keep and what to sacrifice."
"That was my intention as well," Jiang Zhizhou said.
"Be careful in everything you do."
With that, Yang Qing lay down again.
Jiang Zhizhou left Yang Qing's bedroom and leaped away, vanishing into the wind and snow.
Qingyang Palace, the imperial palace of Northern Liang.
This was the sleeping palace of Duan Ziqian, the emperor of Northern Liang.
As the sky gradually darkened, the lamps inside Qingyang Palace began to light up one after another.
Figures moved to and fro, yet not even the slightest sound could be heard.
Beside a desk, Duan Ziqian held a book, engrossed in its pages.
The attendant standing beside him several times wanted to speak, but held his tongue.
Duan Ziqian noticed his unusual behavior, set the book aside, and looked up. "What time is it?"
As though granted a pardon, the attendant immediately replied, "Your Majesty, it is time for your meal."
Duan Ziqian nodded. "Give the order."
As he spoke, he rose to leave. His gaze suddenly landed on a certain spot, and his expression shifted slightly.
The attendant, who had been following Duan Ziqian to attend him at his meal, saw the emperor stop again. Uncertain what had happened, he grew uneasy.
Just as he was about to ask, Duan Ziqian said, "I have suddenly remembered something unfinished. Tell them not to serve the meal yet."
With that, Duan Ziqian waved the attendant away.
Though puzzled, the attendant dared not ask. He acknowledged the