When the Tiga clan was attacked by the Youjin, some of their people had fled to the vast western regions. Perhaps Moroha would join them there, or perhaps he would remain in Dayan. Either way, it was of no concern to Zong Jun.

Hu Lan, for her treachery, had been sent back to her family in the Leshi clan, forbidden from ever setting foot in Youjin territory again. Zong Jun declared publicly that from then on, he would have only one Khatun. Concubine or equal wife, it mattered not; Yao Ji alone was enough for him.

Though Yao Ji's body had suffered, leaving her somewhat frail, she gradually recovered under careful tending. The following April, as spring bloomed across the grasslands, she gave birth to a son.

This was Zong Jun's first child. The moment he was born, Zong Jun declared him the crown prince. The babe was robust, his small face still wrinkled, his hair thick and dark. His cries were loud and strong.

Guided by the wet nurse, Zong Jun carefully cradled his son and turned to show him to his wife, propped up on pillows. "Yaoyao, look how lovely our child is."

Still weak, Yao Ji pouted. "He looks like a monkey to me. Quite ugly."

The wet nurse and the attending servants laughed. "All newborns look like that. In a few days, he'll blossom. Look at our little prince's nose and eyes. He'll be a handsome boy."

"Indeed," Zong Jun quickly agreed. "All babies are like this." 

Truth be told, he had no idea what newborns looked like. He simply echoed the sentiments to appease his wife. "And how could he be ugly, when he's yours?"

Those present exchanged knowing glances, confirming what they already knew: the Great Khan adored his Great Khatun. His adoration was evident today.

Yao Ji blushed. The barbarian! Spouting sweet nothings in front of everyone. Still, she reached out to caress the baby's impossibly soft cheek. The slightest touch sent a tremor through her heart.

Before descending to the mortal realm, Yao Ji had never imagined she would one day become a mother. As an immortal celestial maiden, destined to live as long as the heavens themselves, having a child would have been an extraordinary feat. She hadn't considered motherhood, nor did she know how to be a mother.

Now, looking at this tiny bundle in Zong Jun's arms, the anxiety and apprehension she'd felt before giving birth vanished, replaced by a profound sense of peace and joy. A primal instinct to protect this child, to ensure his happiness and well-being, welled up within her.

"Zong Jun," she looked up, her dark eyes shining like stars, "Will he have a blessed life?"

"Of course," Zong Jun clasped his wife's hand, his gaze overflowing with tenderness. "He is our little barbarian. I will protect him, and I will protect you. I will shield you from harm and worry, and ensure your life is filled with only joy."