Ah-Yan had always been the princess's pride, while Xiao Yanshao belonged to the Liao like a star born for glory.
His aim never missed, his bow stunned the world. He fought countless battles without a single loss. Everyone praised his feats everyone but the princess. Whenever he offered news of a crushing victory over the Song, she would go quiet for a second, force a faint smile, and only ask if he was hurt.
I never agreed with how she acted, but I couldn't change her mind. All I could do was tell Xiao Yanshao she was only weighed down by sorrow, but still proud of him deep inside.
When he was appointed as military commissioner and set out for Yanmen Pass, he came to say goodbye to the princess and left a few words with me.
"This campaign is to take Yanmen. The Song forces are weak and timid, they're nothing to worry about," he said, like Yanmen was already his. "Once I take it, I'll lead our troops south and capture the Central Plains. The Song is finished. The Liao will rise, and I'm sure Mother will be proud."
Then he added, "Aunt Zhe, please take care of her while I'm gone. And I'll be bringing back the Golden Blade's sheath for her." He smiled, full of confidence and fire.
I bowed, feeling lifted by his spirit. "When you return in victory, the princess will surely smile."
Later, I passed his words to her, but she only leaned her head against her hand, without a hint of joy.
"Back when I was young, I took pride in the Golden Blade, never knowing it was a fate I couldn't escape. It brought me nothing but ruin. With the way Ah-Yan is now, if Ah-Chen were still alive, I don't know if I'd want him to find the sheath at all."
She gave a tired, bitter smile and let out a long sigh. "It's a chain and a curse. Better lost forever than found again."