The Blades of the Guardians. Book 2

The emperor wishes to subjugate the rebellious merchant families of the Western regions and bestows generous gifts upon them, but the head of one family rejects them. Meanwhile, Dao Ma and Auyiya, accompanying the capricious Zhi Shi Lan to Chang'an, witness an attack by pseudo-rakshasas on a nearby passing cart. Dao Ma offers help to those in trouble in exchange for the cart, to which they reluctantly agree. After a long journey, the travelers decide to stop for the night at an abandoned tavern. A long-time acquaintance of Auyiya comes out of the tavern, presents the girl with an unusual gift, and informs her that he intends to marry her no matter what...