Chapter 59: Muzhi Broke the Siege of Raoyang

　　Liu Chengyuan spoke gravely. “My master is presently away from Chang’an. Without his express consent, it would be most improper for me to accept the position of alliance leader on his behalf.”　　Es replied with measured calm, “Then perhaps we might leave the post ceremonially vacant for the moment, and await your master’s word before any formal appointment is made. Yet, if the Nestorians and the Manichaeans are to unite in earnest, we cannot afford a leaderless cause. A coalition without a head is but scattered sand—powerless against the encroachments of the Mazdeans. Might you, Sir Liu, consent to act as vice-chief for now? In that capacity, you could serve as the vital link between our two faiths. I beseech you—do not decline again.”　　Master Kang gave a solemn nod. “This seems a most prudent course. Otherwise, it is not merely that our two faiths would remain scattered and ineffectual—as grains of sand adrift—but truth be told, even within the Manichaean ranks, unity is all but lost. I implore you, Sir Liu, if not for our sake, then for the memory of your noble mother, do not refuse us again.”　　Liu Chengyuan lowered his gaze, thoughts turning inward. “So that was it. Aunt Kang Wei once told me she had joined the Mazdeans upon returning to her homeland, and had no wish to bring me into Manichaean territory. I thought little of it then—but now, I begin to see. The Manichaeans have been hounded and humiliated across the martial world of Central China. Their plight is pitiful indeed. As one born of their line, can I truly turn away from their cause?” He raised his eyes and said, with measured humility, “Your Excellencies are most generous. I am unworthy of such trust, and the role of vice-chief is far beyond my station. Might I instead serve as a liaison—someone to maintain the thread between your two venerable orders? Let the internal affairs of each church remain under your wise stewardship. I shall merely see to their communication and coordination. What say you to that arrangement?” Both Master Es and Master Kang exchanged a look and gave their wholehearted assent.　　“I have urgent matters yet to attend to in Chang’an. Once they are settled, I shall proceed to the Great Nestorian Monastery of Daqin, where we may deliberate upon our greater cause.” With that, he took his leave of the two spiritual leaders and made his way alone to the Kaiyuan Abbey, seeking Qian Yu.　　Upon reaching the abbey, Liu Chengyuan made quiet enquiries among the resident Taoist priestesses, asking after Qian Yu’s whereabouts. His earnest manner and barely