The Battle for Liao

This flow traces Xiao Feng’s involvement in a Khitan succession crisis, from sworn friendship with the ruler to a rebellion he must suppress.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Friend in the Snow

A Meeting Beyond the Pass A shared trial Xiao Feng encounters Wanyan Aguda while hunting tigers and seeking medicine for A'Zi. A language barrier gives way to mutual recognition of courage and strength. A new community The Jurchen tribe welcomes Xiao Feng despite his Khitan birth. The episode offers companionship outside the Central Plains conflicts that have defined his recent life.

The Captured Noble

Hostage and Honor Intervention When a Khitan force attacks the Jurchens, Xiao Feng tries to stop needless deaths. He captures the red-robed commander and compels the force to withdraw. A deliberate release The commander proves to be Yelu Ji. Xiao Feng releases him rather than exploit the hostage for wealth, turning a battlefield encounter into the start of a friendship.

The Sworn Brother

Kinship Across Allegiance A pledge Xiao Feng and Yelu Ji swear brotherhood after recognizing one another's courage and frankness. Xiao Feng reveals his Khitan identity rather than conceal it from his new companion. A relationship transformed Their bond later outweighs political caution. Xiao Feng does not yet know that his friend is the Liao ruler, but the relationship prepares him to act when that truth emerges.

The Emperor Revealed

The Brother Is the Ruler Recognition Yelu Ji reveals that he is YeLu HongJi, emperor of the Liao Empire. The revelation changes the scale of their friendship: Xiao Feng has sworn brotherhood with a sovereign. A new duty Xiao Feng is uncomfortable with court ceremony, but he remains loyal to the personal bond. The emperor's trust soon draws him into a national crisis.

The Rebellion Halted

The Throne Preserved A desperate reversal When the rebellion threatens to overwhelm YeLu HongJi, Xiao Feng kills the Prince of Chu and captures YeLu ZhongYuan. He uses the hostage's authority to persuade the rebel forces to lay down their arms. A political aftermath YeLu HongJi survives and appoints Xiao Feng to high office. The victory saves lives, but places Xiao Feng in a position that may require him to wage war against Song.

During the winter journey through Changbai Mountain

During the later clash between Khitan riders and Jurchen hunters

After Xiao Feng releases Yelu Ji

At the great leather tent during the military gathering

During the battle against the Southern Chancellery rebels