Chapter 50: The Rise of the Wind (III)

Abdullah showed no emotion on his face, and his imposing demeanor startled Hu Jiahelian.
“Respected Mr. Abdullah, what troubles you so? What has made you hold a prejudice against me?”
If there was anything in this ruined fortress that could make Hu Jiahelian cautious, it was the fearsome Abdullah. This missionary from the East had been sent by General Abu Muslim to the army to ‘teach’ him to follow Allah’s will—he was someone Hu Jiahelian dared not offend.
For such a person to say, “Lord Hu Jiahelian, what are your orders?”, was nothing short of slapping himself in the face! Someone must have been speaking ill of him behind his back—there was no other explanation!
Abdullah didn’t want to put Hu Jiahelian in too much difficulty either. He slightly curled his lips and said, “Allah never lashes out without reason. In my view, His followers should do the same.”
After a brief pause, Abdullah continued, “General Hu Jiahelian, I know the conditions at the Sangjar Pass are harsh, but you must know that countless soldiers share our hardships—they are also believers in Allah.”
Hu Jiahelian smiled brightly. “Those who lash out in anger are fools. Truly wise people choose solitude to resolve the turmoil in their hearts. Respected Mr. Abdullah, when have I ever complained about the harsh conditions? It is a great honor for me to serve under General Abu Muslim.”
“Oh, then that’s best.”
Abdullah nodded slightly. “Just now, General Hu Jiahelian, what did you want to discuss with me?”
Seeing Abdullah relax, Hu Jiahelian’s anxious heart finally settled.
“Respected Mr. Abdullah, wise men say that those who are kind will receive Allah’s protection!”
Hu Jiahelian paused briefly. Seeing Abdullah’s expression remain unchanged, he pressed on, “Truly kind people share their most precious things with their friends. And now, I wish to give you a gift that I’ve cherished for a long time!”
“Oh!”
Abdullah remained calm, narrowing his eyes slightly as he waited for Hu Jiahelian to continue.
Hu Jiahelian clapped twice, and a soldier entered carrying a woman wrapped in red cloth.
“General Hu Jiahelian!”
The soldier set the woman down and saluted Hu Jiahelian militarily.
“Hmm, you may go now.”
Hu Jiahelian waved him off.

“Dear Mr. Abdullah, Allah has bestowed beauty upon the world so that wise men may pass on their wisdom to future generations.”
Hujia Helian stepped beside the Uyghur woman, his right hand gently sliding along her snow-white neck.
“Dear General Hujia Helian, your words are a bit confusing to me. Please speak plainly—your elaborate phrases make it hard for me to grasp the main point.”
Abdullah spoke in a calm, emotionless tone.
“Ahem, hehe… This girl’s name is Lumbana; she is the most beautiful woman in Taraz. Hearing that you were here, she came specially to meet you!”
Upon hearing this, Lumbana shyly nodded at Abdullah as a gesture.
“Oh, I see.”
Abdullah lightly picked up his snow-white, gossamer-like robe and sat down on a nearby stool.
This old fox still waits for me to speak first! Abdullah was shameless, he thought to himself, but Hujia Helian had to force a smile and say, “For a wise man like you, it’s only fitting to have this Uyghur woman as your companion.”
“Ah, General Hujia Helian, I really didn’t expect you to think that!”
Abdullah seemed surprised and shook his head repeatedly. “Allah teaches us not to impose our pleasures on others’ suffering. This girl…”
“Mr. Abdullah, Lumbana admires your talent and willingly wishes to be your companion!”
Seeing that Abdullah continued to use formal language, Hujia Helian grew anxious and cut in.
“Ah, please forgive my rudeness!”
After a brief pause, Hujia Helian nodded repeatedly at Lumbana.
At his signal, Lumbana lifted the red veil covering her face and bowed gracefully to Abdullah. “Allah often reminds us that those who are naturally dull can gain wisdom by interacting with wise people. You are like the purest mosque in the holy city, bringing strength to many believers. It is my greatest honor to serve by your side.”
“Mm.”
Although Abdullah still didn’t want to talk much, his tone was much gentler now.
Seeing signs that Abdullah might relent, Hujia Helian was overjoyed and quickly added, “Just as snow lotuses thrive with snowwater and grass grows under the morning sun, Lumbana must be the happiest person in the world right now.”
Though Lumbana was usually easy-going, she blushed at these words and turned away, lowering her head.

“Let her listen to the teachings beside the wise man tonight; I believe the nectar bestowed by Mr. Abdullah will surely bring Lumbana an unparalleled wonder.”
“Oh, General Hujahelin, though I know I should refuse you.”
After a brief pause, Abdullah continued, “But this girl is truly too devout. I can’t bear to see her weeping outside the gates of heaven, so tonight I permit her to accompany us.”
“Ah, your decision is undoubtedly the wisest!”
Seizing the opportunity, Hujahelin pressed on, “She will forever remember this moment, remember the wonder you have given her!”
“I know it’s somewhat inappropriate to bring this up now.”
Hujahelin swallowed hard and said, “But before you convey Allah’s voice to Lumbana’s ears, I’d like to ask if you could speak well of me to General Abu Muslim.”
Abdullah cleared his throat and opened his eyes for the first time. “The wise always like to discuss personal matters after giving gifts, General Hujahelin. Your strategy amazes me. Don’t worry about General Abu Muslim. The governor is merely testing your loyalty to His Majesty the Caliph and to Allah. As long as you manage to survive these fifteen days, I guarantee there will be a position as a city lord waiting for you in Khorasan!”
“Ah! Honorable Mr. Abdullah, is this true? Can I really receive the title of a city lord… Ah, please forgive my distress. I’m too excited to express my gratitude in concise and smooth words.”
Receiving Abdullah’s assurance, Hujahelin was overjoyed. “Tonight, Lumbana will surely experience the most wonderful moment of her life—and it will be you who bestows it upon her!”