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Chen Qing Xu was silent for a long time. She paced restlessly in the same place for two steps. Then, she sighed deeply: Marshal… have you ever heard of the Bone of Impurity?

The bandits and mobs in the Central Plains area had caused Cai Fen great distress. After all, General Cai is already of old age. Although the army in the Central Plains appeared powerful and magnificent, in fact, it was also called the retirement army by others. It was not located in an area where neither villages nor shops could be seen, its steadily in the middle. Apart from the occasional disorder, it was basically used to distribute reinforcements to the border.

At this time, most of Cai Fens troops were divided by the north and the west. He had no Eagle Armors on his hands. Combined with his cautious nature, he did not dare to take any risks, being hara.s.sed by the mob.

Gu Yun spent three to five days figuring out the origin and development of these mobs, personally familiarizing himself with the terrain on the map, then sent someone to contact General Cai to prepare to surround them from two sides.

The rebellious bandits did not know the leader of this troops from the capital, but after several explorations, they found that the group was even more well-off than Cai Fens. They have Heavy Armors and guns, but never fired them. They only sent out Light Cavalry, and each time they would chase after for a mile or two then retreat, confirming that this army only had appearance but no substance. As they were planning to encircle them, Cai Fen suddenly made a move, completely changing his previous style of fighting but not pursuing, pouring out the remaining troops of the Central Plains Garrison to raid and encircle the rebellious mob.

In fact, there was not much in Central Plains Garrison force. If the two sides clashed, there was no certainty who would emerge victorious, but the bandits were accustomed to the leisurely fighting style of you enter, I retreat. a.s.suming that they were slippery loaches, they did not have the heart to use all their acc.u.mulated resources to carelessly engage in battle, hence reusing their old trick of retreating while fighting, hiding away from Cai Fen. On their way to withdraw, they ran into Gu Yun who had been waiting for a long time.

Gu Yun ordered the Heavy Armors loaded with spears to aim their muzzles directly at the bandits. The bandit leader saw that the young masters army was coming to scare them again, he immediately ordered his men to rush into the Heavy Armors formation.

The defensive line of the Heavy Armors broke in an instant, the Light Cavalry struggled to resist. The bandits discovered that there was nothing inside the muzzle, that these were technically papers. Under great joy, they became all the more fearless, directly rushing forward.

Until the bandits were all trapped inside, the paper Heavy Artillery suddenly sounded. The bandits were caught off guard, men and horses fell down. Before they could retreat, they were surrounded by the Light Cavalry and the Cai army that have always been dodging them all these time coming out from both sides, capturing them inside the pot.

The bandits formation scattered, the legendary leader Huo Long was captured alive. Gu Yuns eyes ached from the unsightly and b.u.mpy appearance of the bandit. He intended to throw the man directly to Shen Yi to play with. Ask him where his accomplices are, who had instructed him, where his old nest is, and if there is anything for us to rob from them…

Shen Yi choked and coughed fiercely: Marshal, you have turned mad from poverty!

Gu Yun waved his hand: Beat him if he doesnt speak… use torture to extract information, I will go catch up with Old Cai.

He was about to leave when he saw a guard holding a short sword with a peculiar shape. It was a bit longer than a dagger, the tip was bent slightly inward, creating a beautiful curve. It was quite different from the short sword in Central Plains. Gu Yun felt that it appeared familiar. He reached out to receive it.

Marshal, this was found on the bandits leaders body.

Gu Yun took the short sword and touched the blade with his fingers. He squinted and whispered: This is from the barbarians?

It is the short sword of the Eighteen Tribes. Chen Qing Xu came over and said, Marquis, have your iron plates loosened?

No, I am sorry for troubling Miss Chen to run around with us in the middle of the night. Gu Yun shook his head and held the handle of the blade for a moment. Tch, with a handle this short, would it not get in the way?

It is not short, this is a blade for women, Chen Qing Xu took the curved short sword and measured it with her hand. The Man of Eighteen tribes dined on wind and drank dew, fighting for food against the beasts of the gra.s.sland, thus there is often such a groove at the handle. In case of clashing with a powerful beast, it can prevented the sword from dropping off during the fight. The steel material of this short sword is of high quality, the original owner must have been one of high status. And the handle is mostly tailor-made, the hands of the person must have been very small, similar to mine, it should be a woman Marquis sir, look here.

She flipped the handle around for Gu Yun, there was a complex pattern on the underside, like a totem entwined by numerous flowers and vines, wrapped in the middle was a flame.

Chen Qing Xu said, I saw this pattern of flowers and vines in an abandoned ruin of the Eighteen Tribes. I heard the slaves of the Han people who were captured say that it was the symbol of Eighteen Tribes G.o.ddess.

I know, Gu Yuns face suddenly turned grave. I also know who the symbol in the middle stands for.

There was no telling when Shen Yi had come closer. As he caught sight of the pattern, he let out a heavy breath: The heart of the earth?

Chen Qing Xu asked in confusion: Who?

Shen Yi: Hu Ge Er… Xiu Niang, she… Hasnt she been dead for years? How could it be…

Gu Yun waved at him, took the knife and turned to the place where the bandit leader Huo Long was being imprisoned. He signaled with his hand to dismiss all the guards.

He was holding the knife, neither joy nor anger could be detected on his face. The slightly curved knife was already very old, yet it was still sharp, bringing with it the feeling of inhumanity, that it would dig out a layer of flesh and blood as soon as it was stabbed into the body.

Gu Yun pinned the tip of his knife to Huo Longs chin: I heard that you did not confess where your old nest and your rebel army are, you have also refused to say who caused you to take advantage of the situation to hara.s.s the Cai Army?

Huo Long: Bah, little white face!

Gu Yun laughed as he heard this, enjoying it quite a bit in his view, scolding men as little white face was the same as calling women fox spirit it showed that the people being cursed at was very good looking.

You can talk to your hearts content. Gu Yun said to Shen Yi. In the face of national difficulties, this man had colluded with a foreign country, being in communication with the Man. Those barbarian bunch have not entered the gate yet you are already here licking their feet first… It is a waste of my time interrogating you, put this information on display for everyone to see tomorrow.

As Huo Long heard the first half, he was confused, he then became more and more frightened. He could see that Gu Yun was not joking. With a disdainful att.i.tude, he rose slowly to leave. Huo Long struggled hard: Pouring mud on others! Dog officer! All the brothers know that I am a man who stands up to heaven and earth. You dare to slander my reputation with such nonsense…

Pouring mud on others? Gu Yun shook the Eighteen Tribes blade in front of the Huo Long: People in Central Plains call this thing Wolfs Fang steel. The curved crescent tip is the typical design of the barbarian, isnt this yours?

Huo Long was stunned.

The scabbard and groove are specially made. The sheath was made from the best leather, and the totem on the handle are as lively as real, this must have been made by a renowned expert. Ordinary barbarians would not be able to have this. If the original owner was not wealthy, they must have belonged to n.o.bility.

Gu Yun lifted his chin slightly and glanced at Huo long. I am telling you Ugly, your brothers all know you carry this thing on your body all day, but n.o.body knows the origin of it, am I right? Tch, a bunch of ignorant country b.u.mpkins…

Wait! Hold… Hold on! Huo Long cried out: That… That thing belonged to my nemesis, it is not…

Gu Yun laughed aloud, Is that so, sounds quite reasonable. I have seen people carry objects from their lovers. But this is the first time I had seen someone who missed their nemesis this way. What kind of hatred could be so lingering and melancholic? Come and give me some insight.

That woman put down more than a hundred brothers of my camp with poison, stabbed them one by one, and finally set off a fire, burning the hilltop to a clean. The entire mountain, even the birds were burnt to ash. I was the only one who could escape, leaving me with all these scars.

I did not f.u.c.king know where she came from, nor did I know that she was a barbarian. I only carried this knife to remind myself of my past humiliation! Huo Long furiously roared: Dog officer, you can slander me for anything, but if you dare to pour this bucket of s.h.i.t on me, even if I became a demon, I will still bite you to death!

Shen Yi let out an unamused laughed and said: Your teeth are still so sharp, continuing with your made up tales: a barbarian woman barging into a bandits nest for no reason, burning the bandits on the mountain all on her own? How fresh Marshal, do the theatre troupes invited to your manor ever had such an interesting play?

Gu Yun sighed: I cannot even afford any meat, all day slurping porridge, what theatre troupe …

Huo Long stared at them: Marshal… Which Marshal?

Gu Yun spun the blade in his hand at a dizzying speed, giving him a malicious smile.

Huo Long instantly came to a realization, he shudder: You…You are… Gu…Gu

Dont just claim people to be your relatives. Who is your aunt*? Shen Yi interrupted him, Tell us how you have colluded with the barbarians and hara.s.sed the people.

*The word aunt -G and G G Yn sounded similar.

Huo Longs face reddened: I said it was my enemy! G.o.dd.a.m.nit, if there was any word that was untrue, let me be struck by lightning!

That woman went with a small caravan at the beginning, she seemed to had been separated from her family, paying someone to give her a ride. We stopped and robbed the caravan on the way. Seeing that she was quite beautiful, we also captured her to the mountain altogether. She was carrying a baby still in diaper, it doesnt look to be a full month old, and she herself was also pregnant…

Inside, Shen Yi was terrified, but on the outside, he asked as calmly as possible: When did it happen?

Huo Long said: Nineteen… twenty years ago.

Under the dim light, Gu Yun and Shen Yi exchanged a look. It sounded similar to the story of when the barbarian G.o.ddess fled that year, then the baby should be Chang Geng, but what was the one in Xiu Niangs belly?

Shen Yi: What happened afterwards?

Huo Long leaned back and said in a hoa.r.s.e voice: Most of the other people who were captured in the mountains threw a tantrum. But she was different. The womans appearance looked good, but her brain seemed to not working quite well. She did not respond when people talked to her, did not cry out when being beaten, did not resist whatever people ordered her to do. Within only a few months, she prematurely gave birth to a baby.

Gu Yuns hand holding the knife tightened slightly…somehow, when he heard this, he suddenly felt a kind of terror. The intuition that had never been wrong for so many years seemed to be stirring the string in his heart.

They all said that women who had just given birth are not clean. For a period, n.o.body would touch her nor care about her, but for fear that she would run away, we chained her feet in the room, giving her some food everyday, yet she did not die…

After a while, one of my little brother with his brain soaked in water, missing that womans beauty, he had sneaked away to come see her. When he came back, he had told me in horror that there was only one baby left at her side, the other one was gone.

Shen Yi almost forgot he was interrogating, he blurted out: Which one is missing?

Who the h.e.l.l knows, they are all half-dead babies, bare-boned, only as large as a mouse. As expected, Huo Long was immediately alert. Why are you asking about this?

Shen Yi paused, strongly whipped the lash in his hand at the side, he said coldly: If you cannot answer anything then what would be the d.a.m.n point of speaking of it? There is nothing strange about missing one little Man brat, I am telling you to confess everything from start to end. What are you waiting for? Beating around the bush like this.

Huo Long was not angry, but instead, his expression turned tense: … No, it is not surprising for the child to die, the lives of these brats are cheap, whether one lived or died is nothing much. But curiously, my brother said, he did not see where the corpse was. The woman was locked in the room, she basically could not get out. She couldnt have buried it in the ground, but she had not thrown it out, nor did she keep it in the room, the child just… just vanished in thin air.

At that time, the few brothers guarding said they saw a light of fire in the womans room in the middle of the night. At first, they a.s.sumed she was cooking food in secret, but later, it was said that there are many crows circling over her room during that time…

Shen Yi felt gooseb.u.mps raise up, he unconsciously looked at Gu Yun.

The burnt corner of Huo Longs eyes twitched a few times: This matter once made everyone in the camp felt uneasy. Some people said that this wretch was abnormal, demonic and evil, they had wanted to simply get rid of her. There were also some lechers who were reluctant to do it, both sides fighting pointlessly for a long while without result. At that time, big brother saw that she was obedient, good at working, and was also energetic in bed, he decided to keep her, even raising the half-dead brat of hers for a few years…

That woman, truly is a monster… Huo Long let out a breath: Truly, if there are no men coming to find her at night, she would use many different methods to torment the child. His cries and shouts could be heard from even the next mountain. Several times, the brothers in the camp could not bear to look anymore, telling her to restrain herself. On the surface, she obeyed, then would go back to her room and continue on.

Gu Yun stood up abruptly.

Shen Yis heart was also startled. Gu Yun reluctantly placed the hand holding the knife behind his back, green veins popping up.

Fortunately, Huo Long did not notice, as if immersed in past memory, he muttered: There is an old saying, even ferocious tigers do not eat their youngs. Although those of us are merciless and evil, we are not afraid of retribution, but we have never seen a woman so cruel before.

But there was no telling what kind of brainwashing spell she had cast on my big brother. He insisted that this kind of no good woman was suitable to stay on the mountain, that she should be one of our own. He seemed to have lost his mind to beauty, even ended up given her his own life!

Gu Yuns voice was dyed with a little dryness that was hard to detect: How?

Poisoning. Barbarian women are all poisonous. She stayed in our camp, enduring for many years, not showing any trace, gradually the brothers let their guard down and easily fell into her trap. She killed everyone in the camp, even the women, slaves, hostages captured into the mountains much like her, no one was spared. Then, she finally started a fire and burned the mountain to the ground. Pain flashed on Huo Long face for a moment, he loudly cursed, letting out a long string of dirty words.

This time, no one had the mind to interrupted him anymore. Gu Yuns expression was incredibly unsightly, appearing as if he could no longer restrain himself.

My stomach was upset that day, I did not dare to drink lots of wine and water, I could barely have enough strength to climb out of the sea of fire and regain my life. The knife… The knife was pulled from my big brothers chest. If I ever see that woman again, I will cut her to million pieces!

Gu Yun whispered: She brought along a young child to kill and burn the mountain together.

She put the cub in the basket, said Huo Long. Carrying it on her back, the cub always looked half-dead and boneless. Lying in the bamboo basket, it only stared staring at dead bodies everywhere and did not even cry out. After so many years, if it does not die in that wretchs hands, it must definitely be a monster itself.

Gu Yun turned away without a word.

Shen Yi rushed out after him: Marshal, Marshal!

This man cannot live, Gu Yun said quickly in a low voice. Old Cai is still here, while he still had not noticed, make this eyesore be silenced forever, remember to handle it cleanly.

As he said this, Gu Yun suddenly seemed to remembered something, his footsteps halted, his expression filled with haze: No, I forgot there is still Jia Lai Ying Huo. That year at Yanhui Town, he and Xiu Niang had been in contact. That barbarian must know something.

Shen Yi was frightened: Marshal…

He had never told me, Gu Yuns shoulders suddenly collapsed, but the steel plate on his body prevented his back from bending, his stance was indescribably stiff.

He had never told me, not even mentioning a single word… I know that barbarian womans head is full of thoughts about vengeance for her country, she must have not been very kind to him, but there is still a blood connection…

Shen Yi hurriedly said, You dont know what that insane woman Hu Ge Er did. Twenty years ago, you are still a child with knotty nose. Its alright Zi Xi, this matter had nothing to do with you!

That time when we picked him up in the snow, it was not because he was a young foolish child sneaking out to play, Gu Yun whispered. He clearly could not endure the torture anymore, that is why…

And they had been so kindly to bring him back.

Shen Yi was not able to answer.

For a long time, Shen Yi whispered, If… I am asking a hypothetical question, what if, the child left alive is not the son of the Royal Consort…

Shen Yi could not help recalling that scene many years ago, the young boy Chang Geng stood in front of him, calmly said that he was no prince, that the disability on his feet was caused by Xiu Niang.

Gu Yun raised his eyes: What do you want to say?

It does not matter who the mother is. Theres not much difference between the Eighteen Tribes witch and the witchs sister. The problem is… whose child was Hu Ge Er carrying? Shen Yi licked the corners of his dry lips with difficulty.

That year, the younger sister of the consort also lived in the palace, she was to be wed to the one of royal bloodline. Would former Emperor Yuan He commit such a thing as stealing something he was keeping guard of?

If the former Emperor truly was this shameless, it would be a relief to everyone, but what if…it wasnt so?

If it was not the former Emperor, there was no doubt that the most suspected person would be the one who had helped the two women escape at that time, who harbored ill intentions, but was able to enter and exit the palace, even had the ability to release the Eighteen Tribes witches, then took over the line of spy that they left in the palace many years later…

With all these conditions combined, one can easily be reminiscent of Master Liao Chi and his group of Dong Ying spies.

Shen Yi felt cold all over: Marshal, this…

Gu Yun looked up at him, his eyes resembling sharp blades, Shen Yi suddenly could not open his mouth.

Digest it in your stomach. Gu Yun lowered his head and stroked the knife with both hands: On the Northern Man side, I will clean it all up sooner or later. Dont mention this matter any more.

Shen Yi: … Yes.

Gu Yuns face was as heavy as an iron. His back was supported upright by the steel plate, making him appear all the more heavyhearted. He went to find Chen Qing Xu himself.

Miss Chen, I would like to have a word with you.

Chen Qing Xu did not know what was going on, she followed him to one side.

Gu Yun said, Miss Chen is well-versed in medicine, you have also been in the barbarian area for half a year. I have a question to ask you.

Chen Qing Xu hurriedly lifted her robe and bowed: I dare not.

Gu Yun absentmindedly gave her a hand: Do they have any special witchcraft there…that makes use of babies?

Chen Qing Xu was startled.

Gu Yun immediately caught her surprised expression in the blink of an eye: Whats wrong?

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Chen Qing Xu was silent for a long time. She paced restlessly in the same place for two steps. Then, she sighed deeply: Marshal… have you ever heard of the Bone of Impurity?

T/N: I apologize for the delay in updating, this is quite a long chapter and was a bit more challenging.

Talk not of the glories of awards and n.o.bility,

My heart is as bright as crystal ice in the jar of jade

Gu Yun sat properly on his horses back and asked: Is he still there?

Shen Yi raised the Qian Li Yan in response and looked back: Yes.

Gu Yun left the capital in a beautiful day, it was a rare occasion with sunlight spreading for ten miles. Emperor Long An led a hundred civil and military officers to see them off, sending them to the city gate, watching until the figures of men and horses vanished from sight before dispersing. Yan w.a.n.g was the only one who had not left.

He climbed up the only remaining watchtower on the collapsed gate and watched the figure of the Black Iron General without moving, seeming as if he would stand until the end of the earth and heaven.

Gu Yun did not look back, but said to Shen Yi, How far have we gone already? Even the Qian Li Yan should not be able to see clearly anymore. You should stop talking nonsense.

Shen Yi angrily said, If you think my eyesight is bad, then look for yourself. Keeping on ordering me time and time again, other people would a.s.sume there is something shady between me and His Highness.

Gu Yun had prepared a handful of excuses: You try to turn around when being wrapped in iron, so much nonsense.

Shen Yi sneered, not bothering to reveal him.

Would I be already at that extent? Gu Yun paused, then answered his own question: Dont use your meager old maids heart to measure this vast generals heart of mine that could contain thousands of ships.

There was a saying: it takes a hundred days for bones to knit and tendons to heal. Gu Yun was dug out of the heap of dead bodies. Counting both when he was dead and alive, it had not been more than half a month. Let alone an individual, even if the steel armor suffered severe damage, it would not be easy to be fixed this quickly. When Gu Yun requested to go to the northwest, Yan w.a.n.g had turned furious and almost quarreled with him in front of the ministers.

Even Li Feng the half wit emperor, who did not feed the cattle, but only let them work, felt somewhat concerned.

But at this time, there must be someone to reorganize the Black Iron Camp.

The Westerners were not able to encircle the capital. In a half-dead state, they occupied the south of Changjiang. They must have had no spare energy left to take care of their poor allies. The northwest side now had the allied troops of the Western Regions and Eighteen Tribes of Northern Man. They could not be regarded as monolithic. If they could reverse the war situation in the northwest and solve the most pressing problem of Ziliujin at the present, then fighting the Westerners back to their home was only matter of time.

Gu Yun had to go in person. A thousand troops were easy to get, one general was hard to obtain.

At last, Chen Qing Xu came out to solve this dilemma. She came up with a fascinating idea to use a special steel plate produced at top speed by the Ling Shu Inst.i.tute. It could be tightly fastened on the body to secure Gu Yuns bones that had not healed. In this way, it was as if she had made a set of artificial steel bones and frame for him.

Although putting it on did not feel quite good, it guaranteed that he still appeared as if he could still move about naturally.

Shen Yi sighed, Im telling you, Marshal, hurry and sink back your vast heart. What are you going to do?

Gu Yun concentrated on floating the boat in his heart, acting deaf and blind.

Shen Yi saw that the man was using this trick again. He immediately took a deep breath and raised his voice. He shouted: Im telling you Marshal, Yan… Hey!

Gu Yun flipped his hand and gave him a lash. Shen Yi dangerously placed the Wind Slasher in front of his chest. His eyes widened, continuously patting his chest. How dangerous, almost ruining my face hey, Marshal, you have already grown angry from embarra.s.sment after only a few serious words? Even though Master Liao Chi is a spy of Dong Ying, but his sandalwood fart is not totally unreasonable. I think your fate is truly st.u.r.dy*, the Red Phoenix star* could not fly even with wings. But now that it finally was able to take off for once, yet all you b.u.mped into are rotten peach blossoms.

*referring to someone who were born on unlucky day, whose fate counter their loved ones

*

the luckiest star in legends, in charge of the joyous occasion related to wedding.

Gu Yun: …

Shen Yi pursed his lips, feeling that Gu Yuns neck might truly be difficult to twist, otherwise he would have rushed over to beat him already.

Gu Yun took back his whip, remaining silent for a moment then shook his head. The country is almost on the verge of perishing. What else can we do? Being alive for another day is good enough, perhaps this body would one day be wrapped in horse leather. What would be the point in thinking so much?

Shen Yi frowned at his words. He understood Gu Yun very well. If Gu Yun truly had no feelings at all, he would have said it straight away. There would never be any ambiguity. At present, listening to him, perhaps not uncertainty, it was better to say that his heart had already leaned towards one side. It was only because of a few concerns that he temporarily had not expressed it outward yet.

Shen Yi: Hold on, Zi Xi, you wouldnt…

Gu Yun: We are not speaking of this matter anymore.

Shen Yi: That is your son!

Gu Yun: Would I still need to hear this nonsense from you!

Shen Yis expression was frightened, Gu Yun impatiently looked away.

Not seeing this old maid, he had missed him greatly, but as soon as he was here, he felt that the man was too bothersome. Gu Yun simply ushered his horse and rushed away from Shen Yis side. He took out a white jade flute in his arms and started to play a choked up tune.

No musical instrument could produce a decent sound in the hands of Gu Yun. He was now fixed in between steel plates, there was not enough breath. His voice was a little shaky. The fingers on the flutes holes were left running like a wild horse, the tune was all over the place, it should have sounded amusing.

But at this time, the sound of the flute was swept in the wind, wrapped in the sigh of the one departing from west of Yang Pa.s.s*, unexpectedly twisting into an unspeakable feeling of desolation. No one was able to laugh.

*referring to the poem ent.i.tled Seeing of Yuaner on a Mission to Anxi by w.a.n.g Wei, translated by Bill Porter. The full line is West of Yang Pa.s.s theres no one you know, and it is a farewell poem, hence the unspeakable desolation.

Gu Yuns waist and back are fixed straight by Miss Chens steel plate like a beam that will never collapse with two damaged Wind Slashers on his back… none of them were his own.

Chen Qing Xu who was accompanying the army listened to the flute echo far and near from behind. She whispered her sentiment, Talk not of the glories of awards and n.o.bility*…

Talk not of the glories of awards and n.o.bility, Gu Yun flew past her, his next words completely going off tangent. My heart is as bright as crystal ice in the jar of jade*, ha ha ha.

Chen Qingxu: …

Being interrupted, she could not remember the second verse for a moment!

*from the poem by Cao Song, The next verse was A generals victory is built upon ten thousand rotting bones.

* from the poem by w.a.n.g Chang Ling. This line has all along been considered a masterful line to express a pure and n.o.ble heart

Gu Yun marched like the wind. With the medical expert, Miss Chen, accompanying them, there was no concern about the steel plate coming off. Having just left the territory of Zhili, they had already been attacked by two waves of insurgent groups. Neither one were large scale, scattering instantly, running away as soon as there was contact like several wild probing dogs.

Just after leaving the capital city, we were already being tailed. Shen Yi said to Gu Yun, I had dealt with them before, they are cunning and are familiar with the territory. They would flee the moment they realize they could not win, then would soon cling to their opponent again. It was very annoying. I heard about the news of the seige in the capital when I came here. In such a rush, I was furious about their clinginess.

Gu Yun replied with an ah and handed Shen Yi his Qian Li Yan. Im afraid their amateur strategist had studied for a few days.

Shen Yi: What?

Gu Yun: Ive heard that when pretending to retreat, its necessary to be in disorder, severing your own flags to trick the opponent into chasing after. Unfortunately, those soldiers failed to grasp the spirit. The flagpole was cut by themselves. I saw it just now.

Shen Yi: …

Gu Yun frowned and said: What are those people rebelling for, do you know? Cannot afford to live any longer?

Not at all, said Shen Yi with a sneer, You think too well of these vagrants. Even if there is no job, most of the good people will open small businesses or learn a craft, it is not at the extent where they would not be able to survive. These vagrants from the Central Plains to Sichuan are just idle hoodlums, who are then grouped together by someone with intentions. Besides hara.s.sing General Cai, they are usually engaged in the business of robbery. They would run as soon as the army chases them, and will come back after things calmed down a little.

Ive heard that besides robbery they also had one rule. If an adult man of the family follows them in rebellion, the family will no longer be attacked by thieves. Their wives, daughters, and sisters can also be protected. There is no need to worry about being robbed from time to time.

… Gu Yun said: Slow down, this sounds familiar. Isnt it the same as the slavery system of Great Liang? Military households do not have to pay taxes.

Shen Yi could not bear it: Marshal, which side are you on?

Alright alright, dont be angry, Gu Yun said. In this way, arent there more and more bandits? Not only is it tax-free, but theres a team of people following them, it is also possible to avoid conflict. Who is the leader?

They say that he is an old bandit who appears very terrifying. He has been working in this business for many years. His body was covered in scars, even his face was burnt in the past, he calls himself Huo Long. Shen Yi sighed and said: What do you think we should do? Should we quickly travel for two days to get around the mob and go directly to General Cais northwest reinforcement station?

Gu Yun strolled for a moment with his hands behind his back. There are both internal and external troubles, lets resolve anything we can. There are wolves and tigers in front, there can not be any worry at the back. Think up a report and send it to the Military Office. Say that we would be here for three or five days.

After the siege of the capital city was lifted, Li Feng immediately abolished the two ministers left and right sitting idly and eating wage. Then, in order to make it easier to manage, he imitated the official system of the former dynasty, setting up the Military Office, leading the six Ministries, and initiating a number of scholarly Ministers who could now show their true skills in time of troubles.

In the Military Office, the lights were always bright even deep into the night. When Jiang Chong pushed the door in, it was already the third period of the night watch*. The steam lamps were as bright as day, but Yan w.a.n.g had fallen asleep on the table with a brush still in his hand.

*from 11:00pm to 1:00am

Jiang Chong did not want to alarm him. He personally took over the stack of reports held by a servant, then dismissed all the underlings and gently stepped inside. But after all, he was a civil officer he was not well-versed in concealing the noises of his movement.

Chang Geng was startled awake by him. The moment his eyes opened, red marks flashed across the eyes of the usually exquisite Yan w.a.n.g, like a ferocious light filled with murderous intent, suddenly surging at the person in front.

Jiang Chong was not able to react yet cold sweat had broken out immediately, like a rabbit locked in the killing intent of a beast. He involuntarily stepped back. The large sleeve dragged down Chang Gengs brush holder and it fell over immediately.

Only then did Chang Geng sober up, and in an instant, his murderous aura was taken back as swift as a scattering cloud. He stood up and said: No problem, Ill clean it up myself.

Jiang Chong looked at him in horror and wondered if he was confused just now, that his eyes deceived him due to exhaustion. He carefully asked, Did Your Highness have sleep paralysis?

It is nothing. Chang Geng casually said, My chest was pressed… did my unsightly expression frighten you? I am usually a little hotheaded when woken up. I fell asleep for a while just now, I almost didnt know where I was.

As he said so, Jiang Chong could not ask any more questions. He felt that His Highness hotheadedness after being awakened was a bit too extreme.

Chang Geng tidied up the brush holder he had knocked down and asked, Why, did Brother Han Shi had any business?

Jiang Chong returned to his senses and sat down opposite him. Due to what Your Highness said at the court meeting yesterday about issuing Feng Huo tickets to the people, there was a commotion in the court. The court borrowing money from the civilians, this is something that had never been seen before. Would it not be equal to declaring to the world that our treasury is empty? Where would the courts dignity be?

Chang Geng seemed to have not completely woken up, sitting in a chair and pinching his forehead incessantly. As he heard this, he laughed and said: Losing half of the the nation, would this be dignity?

Jiang Chong: Others have asked what if the court was not able to pay the people back when the time comes, Your Highness is aware of the state of the treasury as well.

Separate the repayment periods, then issue the second and third batches. We can borrow from them for now, we will be able to find a turnaround in the end, Chang Geng said. The first group of people who buys the Feng Huo tickets can have some appropriate benefits, such as false t.i.tles and vacancies in the court, special permits… all are possible. Ideally, if this is carried out, the people can use the Feng Huo tickets as currency.

If that will be the case, Jiang Chong hesitated, Wont those tickets fly all over the sky? They are bound to be worthless.

Chang Geng: After the court regains its strength, we can buy them back. Whether it be paying back the money or retaining the tickets, whether it be setting up special systems or law promulgation, these are all matters of the future.

Jiang Chong nodded, then said again: Others are asking, what if in the future, someone will create counterfeit tickets and come to the court with false tickets to ask for money?

Chang Geng was angered by this remark to the point of letting out a laugh: Tell them to bring this matter to the Ling Shu Inst.i.tute. Should such details be brought to the Military Office? Shall we discuss about the proper regulation for using the toilet tomorrow?

Jiang Chong laughed bitterly: That is the truth, but Your Highness also knows how those imperial censors are… there is nothing that they do except quarrelling. I heard that they are now writing their reports all night to reveal your wrongdoings.

Chang Geng sighed, Speaking of thousands of ideas, this is only a solution to resolve this urgency in wartime. Otherwise, what else can we do? Should we start imposing heavy taxes on the citys refugees, or should the Emperors palace be torn down into parts and be sold for money? If there are any questions, feel free to bring them up in the court session. If I could, I will answer right then. If it is something still unclear, I will go back to think carefully then provide a reply later, these people…

This was the current state of the court, where only a small group of people were responsible for handling affairs, while most of the others were responsible for causing troubles and hindering. If something succeeded, they would praise themselves for their own thorough calculation. If anything were to fail, they would say: Why didnt you all listen to me at that time?

Not to mention, there were also people who were harboring their own ideals and who had powerful relations causing troubles, becoming a stumbling block, and wanting to do something became more difficult than flying to the heaven… no wonder that even everyone knew the principle of listening to all sides in order to form a thorough idea yet the most common practice in history was it would always be the dictatorial Emperor and the powerful ministers who were running the imperial courts.

This was not aiming at you, Brother Han Shi, dont take it to heart, Chang Geng waved. I have been arguing too much lately, I can be a little impetuous.

Speaking of Ling Shu Inst.i.tute, Master Feng Han sent two more requests yesterday. This humble official had taken the initiative to withhold them first. Your Highness, please look over them to see if they can be sent out.

Chang Geng poured himself a cup of herbal tea that had already cooled overnight: Ah, what did he say?

One is for the Emperor to revoke the decree and lift the ban for the Mechanics of the common folks. The other is for the Emperor to lift the ban on the peoples Ziliujin trade. He had said that the wealthy businessmen must have their own way. The national crisis is at hand. It is better to make full use of these people, so that the Ziliujin stock of Great Liang can have many sources.

Chang Geng paused, then shook his head: Master Feng Han…tch, this Master Feng Han.

The old man stepped up to the battle when the capital was besieged, his brave spirit had left a strong impression on Li Feng. Although his temperament was annoying, being hard-headed and stubborn at the same time, but his loyalty was unquestionable. Thus recently, whatever nonsense he might speak of, Li Feng would tolerate them all.

Everyone can look over the request for the withdrawal of the ban on mechanics. If there are no major problem, send it out. Chang Geng said, Forget about the Ziliujin matter. Is it so comfortable uprooting the Emperors dragon scales? Be flexible, help Master Feng Han summarize the main focus then forward the request. Return the original version to him.

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Jiang Chong responded reluctantly and was about to stand up to leave, then he seemed to have remembered something he turned around and said, Thats right, there is also the Marquis of Order…

Chang Geng suddenly looked up.

Li Feng had returned Black Iron Tiger Emblem to Gu Yun and gave him the power to deploy the forces and war supply of all four sides. It was reasonable that he did not have to report all the major and minor events along the way in detail. However, Gu Yun did not accept this special treatment and instead regularly made reports. Where he went, what was the situation, what he planned to do, and for what reasons were listed in details.

Jiang Chong: The Marquis of Order had just arrived in the Central Plains area, there is nothing too serious. He only said that he met a group of bandits and insurgents, and that he planned to take care of it properly before leaving. It will take no more than three or five days.

Chang Geng made an Mm sound in response: Leave it here for me to have a look.

Jiang Chong could not help but praise him: Everything from major to trivial matters are all laid out in front of Your Highness. When it is about other people, you only listen to the briefing. Only Marshals reports are carefully looked at from beginning to end. The feelings between Your Highness and the Marshal are truly deep.

After finishing his words, he was about to bid his goodbye and leave, but as soon as he reached the door, Chang Geng suddenly called him: Brother Han Shi.

Jiang Chong turned around: Does Your Highness have any other instructions?

Chang Geng put his hand on Gu Yuns report, unconsciously rubbing it gently. He was silent for a moment, then said without hesitation: I am sorry to trouble you, but do help me collect the objections about the Feng Huo tickets from the officials on the court, who said them, when did they say them, and what they said. I will revise the plan as appropriate.

Jiang Chong was shocked would it be necessary to hear about who and when for revising the plan? He could not help looking at Yan w.a.n.g through the steam lamp shining all night. His face clearly belonged to a young man, but his eyes did not have the slightest hint of being a novice. At first glance, he would think that he was an elegant man of n.o.bility. At second glance, he discovered that his eyes were not all that peaceful, but instead leaked a hint of coldness.

He heard that the Fourth Prince was entrusted to Gu Yun by the former Emperor before his pa.s.sing. He had grown up in the Marquis manor. Jiang Chong suddenly realized now that His Highness and the Marquis were not at all alike.

Jiang Chong: … Yes.

Chang Geng nodded slightly. They were both smart men, there was no need for further explanation.

When Jiang Chong left with his heart full of doubt and concern, Chang Geng finally softly let out a breath. His sleep was already usually not well. He was finally able to get a bit of an uncomfortable shut-eye, but after being disturbed like this, perhaps he would not be able to sleep anymore this night. He stood up to change the indoor incense of the palace to Miss Chens tranquilizer.

Chang Geng stood silently for a moment in front of the tranquilizer emitting onto his face. The nightmare which content he could not remember caused his chest to ache as if he was being p.r.i.c.ked by needles. In front of an outsider, he had forcefully endured and not let it show. This feeling was very similar to several rare attacks of Bone of Impurity.

Due to Gu Yuns wounds, Miss Chen had accompanied the army. Before she left, she had called him aside, told him to increase the amount of tranquilizer and to have as much peaceful rest as he could, whenever he could.

Immense joy and great tragedy recently had completely wiped off his years of acc.u.mulated peaceful foundation, it would be tremendously more difficult to suppress it in the future. Bone of Impurity forbid heavy thinking the more one would think, the more one would be drained of spirit.

But what else could he do? Would he throw it all away and watch Gu Yun be trapped in this ruined nation?

Yan w.a.n.g Li Min restructured the defense of the capital and acted as a leader of the six ministries, beginning his career of being a pillar, demolishing the east wall to make up for the west wall.

When Chang Geng pushed the door in, he saw Gu Yun leaning against the bed with a mottled blade across his knee and an indescribable loneliness present on his pale face.

Although he could not hear the sound of the door, as soon as Gu Yun felt the breeze coming in from outside, he immediately withdrew his expression in a twinkle of an eye: How did you come back to…

He thought it was Shen Yi who returned again after leaving, but as he looked up through the liuli gla.s.s and saw clearly who had came in, he choked his words back.

Gu Yuns hand made an undetectable motion of touching General Tans Wind Slasher: Its over, he thought: Is it too late for me to pretend to faint now?

By the conscience of heaven and earth, this was the first time in his life that General Gu wanted to escape from fright.

But the world has no conscience.

Chang Geng went straight to him, as if nothing happened, grasping Gu Yuns hand, putting his finger on Gu Yuns pulse and quietly checked it for a while.

This time, the half-blind Gu could finally see him through his gla.s.s. After a few days, Chang Geng had became noticeably thinner, his lips were a slightly pale green, which was the kind of green when someone could not breathe or was poisoned. His outer expression seemed as if it was forced out, the inside was only a hollow sh.e.l.l.

Gu Yuns embarra.s.sment faded, he frowned. Where did you get hurt? Come here, let me see.

It is nothing, although Miss Chen claims she had not graduated, she is indeed a medical expert of our times. Chang Geng paused and said, As long as youre alright, I will be, too.

Chang Geng would never concentrate his energy and scream like Shen Yi. His finger was still on Gu Yuns vein, thus he could not sign it to him. Gu Yun basically could not hear many words in this sentence, the only thing he could receive was that attentive gaze.

Gu Yun: …

What did you say, kid?

The next moment, Chang Gengs hand slid down his wrist and held Gu Yuns hand very naturally.

After serious injury or illness, people often lacked energy and blood. Even in May and June, it was easy for their hands and feet to be cold. Chang Geng held his hand in his palm and ma.s.saged it repeatedly, his appearance very serious. Not only did he take care of every acupoint on his hands, he also took care of the most sensitive areas between the fingers, often sweeping by them lightly with his own finger to remind Gu Yun clearly and boldly I am not being filial to you, but I am loving* you, dont deceive yourself.

*the character used for love here is and not .

denotes a much broad term for love,

and not just referring to the romantic kind.

Gu Yun: … Are you finished taking advantage of your yifu?

Chang Geng looked up at him and laughed. He was very handsome, a special kind of handsomeness of those with mixed foreign blood. His sharp edge was somewhat inhumane. However, his temperament was rather extremely peaceful. If donning a robe, he could pretend to be a monk to fool others. Contradictory yet seamlessly suppressing that inherent sharp edge he was born with, when he laughed, he seemed quite sweet.

Gu Yun was dazzled through the liuli gla.s.s for a moment when a persons mentality began to change, their perspective would also involuntarily change.

He had to admit that for a moment, his desire was indescribably shaken.

Gu Yun was not an old monk, his desire could be shaken at any time. Although he was not the type to let loose, he also knew that the main reason was that he did not have the luxury to, it wasnt because he did not want to. Thus, it wasnt right to pretend to be completely upright.

But after all, this was not just any body, it was his small little Chang Geng.

Gu Yun truly could not bear to pluck this flower.

As his meager bits of conscience stood in a line to denounce him, Chang Geng suddenly reached out without warning to untie his clothes.

Gu Yun instinctively hid away, instantly gritting his teeth in pain.

Chang Geng earnestly brought the medicine on the side and signed teasingly, Im only changing your bandage I am not an animal.

In fact, Gu Yun was more worried about he himself being the animal here. He came back to his senses, not knowing whether to laugh or cry, thinking to himself: How did it come to this? For a moment, he could not help but let out a laugh, as soon as he did, the action moved the bones that had not healed yet at his chest and stomach. He could neither laugh nor endure, it was indescribable.

Chang Geng hurriedly said, Alright alright, I wont disturb you anymore, dont mess around.

He dared not jest at Gu Yun again, temporarily bringing out the solemn att.i.tude of a doctor. He carefully untied Gu Yuns clothes and changed his bandages. After a moment of tossing and turning, they both broke out in a sweat.

Chang Geng wiped Gu Yuns body with a piece of silk, as skilled as if he had done it many times. Gu Yun thought of Shen Yis words for a moment. His face was slightly astringent, he said softly: How can you do this kind of thing yourself? It is not suitable.

Chang Gengs eyes grew dim, he approached his ear and said, Nothing is unsuitable. You are still here safe and sound to talk to me now, you can tell me to do whatever.

He was too close to Gu Yuns ears, his ears felt numb, but there was no way to hide from him. If he did, he would not be able to hear him.

Gu Yun sighed: It was difficult for you that day…

Dont mention it, Chang Geng interrupted him in a sullen voice. Dont make me think of it again, Zi Xi, please have pity on me.

Gu Yun was still not used to this type of p.r.o.nunciation yet, his lips moved slightly, but it seemed that he had no face to ask Chang Geng to call him yifu anymore. Just for a moment, Gu Yun wanted to bring up the matter under the city wall that day to talk about it directly although he could not help his heart, what were they going to do about the future?

Would he let Chang Geng go astray and cut off his lines of children and grandchildren?

Even though Gu Yun, a veteran soldier, did not pay any mind to their fathers and sons status from the past, but for Yan w.a.n.g to commit himself to another man, what would people in the court and the pugilist world think of him in the future?

No even if Chang Geng was not the descendant of royalty, even if he was only an ordinary commoner, with this abilities and wisdom to withstand the storm, how could Gu Yun let him suffer humiliation because of him?

Unfortunately, as the cold-hearted words came to his mouth, they were blocked by Chang Geng. Gu Yun missed another opportunity to get them out in time.

Chang Geng leaned on his shoulder, avoided Gu Yuns wounds, and held him for a while. It took a long time for him to suppress his anxiety. He felt that perhaps he should go to Miss Chen for acupuncture. These two days, he could not suppress his Bone of Impurity. Sooner or later, something would happen if he went on like this.

Chang Geng calmed down and reluctantly retreated. It is not too hot today, the sun is not bad. Would you like to go sit outside? It would be good for your injury.

Gu Yun: …What?

Chang Geng repeated through sign language.

Gu Yun thought for a moment then made a firm response: …No.

He had no objection about sunbathing, but he knew that he could not use his own legs to stroll for at least a day or two Gu Yun did not want to know at all how Chang Geng was planning to get him out.

Did you not like to be in a stuffy house? Chang Geng said in sign language.

Gu Yun said: I like it now.

Chang Geng seemed to have no choice but to put the medicine down, get up, and walk away.

Just when Gu Yun thought he had successfully kicked him out, Chang Geng returned with a thin blanket, wrapped it around Gu Yun, then took his little yifu who was unable to resist, smoothly carrying him out of the door.

Gu Yun: …

Are you going to rebel?

At this time, Shen Yi who fled in a hurry, did not feel rea.s.sured. Feeling completely at a loss all the way, he finally turned back. Unexpectedly, he b.u.mped into this situation. He trembled and tripped on the threshold of the Marquiss manor.

Chang Geng was startled for a moment, then, without blushing or gasping, he asked, Did General Shen forget something?

Updatd frm freewebnvel.cm.

Shen Yi laughed dryly, got up and wiped the dust on his body. He wanted to cover up and erase half of the footprints that he had tripped on. Dont worry, I only forgot the footprints… haha, um, well… I will not bother anymore.

After that, the traitor turned around and fled, fearing that Gu Yun would kill him.

The courtyard already had a chair for lying laid out. Chang Geng put a furious Gu Yun down, pulled General Tans Wind Slasher out of his hand and put it on the tea table beside the chair. He laughed and said, Whats wrong? One New Years Eve when I did not want to go out, didnt you carry me out the same way in front of everyone?

Gu Yun said expressionlessly: … So all you salted fish came to life today and lined up to take your revenge on me.

Chang Geng laughed aloud.

After laughing, he brought out something from his sleeve and put it in Gu Yuns hand: For you.

Gu Yun felt something cold at the touch. He pushed up the liuli gla.s.s clipped to his nose slightly and saw that it was a white jade flute. The whole piece was carved from very fine jade. It was shaped like a small Wind Slasher. The hand grip, the pattern and the path for the blade were all mimicked vividly. The word Gu was carved at the end.

At first glance, Gu Yun thought that the character was carved by himself, it truly could be used to replace the real deal.

Perhaps the bamboo one had already been lost, right? Chang Geng said. The weather is dry in the capital city. It will crack after a long time. That time, I have said that I will make a better one for you.

Gu Yun gently rubbed the jade flute, he appeared a little ecstatic: I actually do not have a Wind Slasher engraved with my name.

Chang Geng sat down in front of him and meticulously prepared the tea. The porcelain pot emitted thick steam. He cleansed three cups, one for Gu Yun, one for himself, and one for Tan Hong Feis Wind Slasher.

Even Shen Yi has it, I was the only one who doesnt have. When I was young, I always thought the Black Iron Camp was the shackle imposed on me by the Old Marquis, it was the reason why I could not be free in this life.

When he grew up, he felt that the black iron rod engraved with his name was like a silent suicide note. Gu Yun had no father, no mother, no wife, no son, and no burden. In this vast world, there was no one to leave this suicide note to. He felt an indescribable loneliness and exhaustion of his ambition just by holding it in his hand

In the face of Chang Geng, Gu Yun swallowed back the latter sentence, he ordered: All complaints are simply ignorance of youth. Just listen and dont speak out so as to avoid shaking the armys heart Old Tan that crazy buffalo would not drink tea, do you have wine?

Mm, Ive already forgotten it. Chang Geng said, No wine. General Tan drinks tea, you drink water, the two generals please make do.

Gu Yun: …

He found that Chang Geng was more and more careless towards him.

In the past two days, I had checked with the Ministry of Housing, Chang Geng poured two cups of tea and a cup of water, gesturing, The Western palace stock was burned by Commander Han, the loss of the city guard was astonishing. The supply in the north had been cut off. Im afraid it will be difficult for us to carry on like this. Li Feng had asked me about your opinion.

Its amazing that such a large court, when it comes to war, there were neither money or resources when there were demand for them.

No opinion, only a cease-fire. Gu Yun stretched out his hand and spinned the cup. The Westerners are actually far worse off than us. Not only the land and sea armies besieging the capital, but also the machines and armors they supplied to the eighteen border areas and the countries of the Western Regions. Fighting until this point and returning empty-handed, it is not something to be proud of, there is no chance they are doing better than us.

The Western troops withdrew from the sea, but they will not give up easily. Chang Geng said, To pay such a heavy price for naught, even if they return home, the Western Pope would not be able to explain himself. They have to fight until death. They are now returning to Dong Ying Islands to rest. If they send troops to Jiangnan and confront the court, from the south to the north, we will be in a very pa.s.sive position.

Great Liang was so big yet the court was so poor, it was too easy to gain some then lose some.

Um… If it does not work, send someone to the Western Regions. Our relationship with Lou Lan had not reached the state of betrayal in the end, as long as we are not being hated by friends, try to smuggle some. Gu Yun said, carelessly lifting the small cup with three fingers, looking at General Tan, he downed the cup and said My Brother, His Highness Yan w.a.n.g does not have wine, he told us to make do. I can not manage him, you must also make do.

Chang Geng silently made a toast with the cup of tea towards the owner-less Wind Slasher, drank it, then poured Tan Hong Feis cup on the ground.

Using tea in place of wine, making a wine offering for peace.

True to Chang Gengs words, ten days later, the Western Army abandoned the capital city, shifted its direction and landed again at Jiangnan. In two days and one night, it had rushed into Lin An City. The land of rich fish and rice for generations fell. Every large rich families were in a panic, a number of them had already gathered their jewelry and treasures to flee. Some of them resisted. Unable to win, they had taken their own lives after being captured.

Li Feng put old General Zhong back to use. The veteran once again donned his armors, going to the frontline with Yao Zhen and the remaining soldiers he managed to sc.r.a.pe together.

Gu Yun struggled to get up and hurriedly met with the teacher whom he had not seen for many years. There was no time to talk much. Using a cup of wine outside the city to bid farewell to the Southern Expeditionary Army, he watched the old general with gray hair mount his horse and depart.

The next day, the Marquis of Order and Shen Yi went to the northwest together.

Yan w.a.n.g Li Min restructured the defense of the capital and acted as a leader of the six ministries, beginning his career of being a pillar, demolishing the east wall to make up for the west wall.

Hurry, you see, right now everywhere in the court is bleak and gloomy, lets talk about your misfortune for some fun.

It was easy to be impulsive. What comes after being impulsive was the problem.

If there was no such catastrophe in the capital, Chang Geng would never have done such bold thing. Before the war, he did not even harbor any unrealistic hope for Gu Yun, otherwise he would have not hidden for four or five years.

Gu Yun was his life-long consolation, but according to the normal development, perhaps it would only end here. He had already expressed his mind to this point. Gu Yun had also used the most gentle and flexible way to respond. With Chang Gengs self-esteem, he would never linger on any further.

What he did and what path he took for Gu Yun, these were his own decisions.

He had a lot of motives, but he did not want to use this against Gu Yun for it was too cheap.

The two of them would treat this feeling as a kind of an embarra.s.sing secret, continuing for a long time, waiting for Chang Geng to hone himself little by little, until he could joke about this matter, or after a long time, that heartless Gu Yun would forget the matter on his own.

Chang Geng had been used to restraint since childhood. As long as he had not turned completely mad, he would restrain himself until he died.

Desire, especially unrealistic desire, was a very painful thing. Whether it was desire for money, power, or anything else, they were the shackles on the body. The deeper one was trapped, the tighter one would be bound. This truth was too clear in Chang Gengs mind, thus he dared not indulge for even a moment.

Unfortunately, even if he understood it any clearer, it was useless it was too late to say anything now.

One wrong thought under the city wall had let him take this step forward, coupled with an absence of response from Gu Yun…

Not mentioning whether Chang Geng could still let go as happily as before when he never had any hope, could Gu Yuns heart continue on as if nothing had happened?

As for General Gu, who was both injured and sick, his head was being stretched twice as much.

He believed that in this matter, his responsibility was greater. He truly felt guilty, because under normal circ.u.mstances, Chang Geng would never touch him unless he acquiesced to it.

And even if he had not yet managed to steady himself in the midst of chaos, even if it was an accident, his reaction afterwards shouldnt have been to simply let it slide.

In fact, Gu Yun himself could not tell what he had thought at that time. Perhaps there was no time to think about anything. When he closed his eyes, it was as if he could still see Chang Gengs deep gaze on him in the midst of the sound of artillery fire coming down the city, as if in this heaven and earth, those eyes could only contain him.

n.o.body, especially men, could be indifferent towards that kind of look.

Gu Yun had one nose and two eyes, he was no special than the others. He also had pa.s.sions and desires.

He could not simply regard Chang Geng as a close descendant as before, but raising him like a son for so many years, he momentarily could not be accustomed to it.

At this time, Chang Geng slowly bent down, reached out to cover Gu Yuns ineffective eyes, not letting him see his current appearance.

There was not a single part on Gu Yuns body that listened to his command. He could not hear, see, nor speak, and for the first time in his life, he was powerless to someones disrespectful actions. Dumbfounded, he thought to himself: Would he dare bully the wounded? Where is justice!

Then he felt a soft breath sweep by his face, and the scent of another person approaching was so close he could hardly ignore it.

Gu Yun: …

Mother, this kid truly dare to!

Gu Yuns throat moved involuntarily, but Chang Geng did not do anything. He seemed to stay still for a long time, then kissed the corner of Gu Yuns lips gently.

Gu Yuns eyes were covered, he involuntarily unfolded his rich and sentimental imagination along with the delicate touch. He felt that the boy resembled a small pitiful animal, jumping into his arms after surviving a life threatening situation, giving him a wet lick.

At that time, his heart instantly softened. Although he had no time to ask about the casualties in the army, Gu Yun could already come to a general conclusion. After a moments thought, he could not help but feel grief.

But even so, Chang Geng could still sit by his bed safe and sound at this moment. To him, this was much like finding something again after a.s.suming it had been lost. Gu Yun suddenly did not want to worry too much, wanting to reach out and embrace Chang Geng. But unfortunately, he could not even lift his hand.

Gu Yuns pity and unspeakable concerns soon inextricably mingled with each other. He could not bear to reprimand Chang Geng. He only wished he could go back to the moment when the city was besieged and slap his past self look what youve done!

Zi Xi. Chang Geng cried in his ear, Gu Yuns eyelashes grazed his palm. At this time, it seemed that only by hugging the other, crying and laughing aloud to his hearts content could he vent this continuous panic and fear. Unfortunately, he was also powerless to do so at this moment.

In order to avoid intense emotions from breaking out, Miss Chen had restricted him to the state of having facial paralysis, he could not squeeze out smile with all his strength, thus he had to make a small opening in his mind, letting his feelings flow out like a stream of water.

Gu Yun was badly wounded, there was not enough energy. Even after trying his best to support himself, he soon fell into unconsciousness in the midst of complex emotions.

Chang Geng quietly pulled the quilt up for him, reluctantly watching Gu Yun for a while. It was not until the stiff joints of his body could not endure the torment and made a crisp sound did he slowly stand up holding the bedpost, dragging his corpse-like pair of legs to leave.

As soon as he pushed open the door, Chang Geng saw Chen Qing Xu who had been waiting outside for a long time. She strolled back and forth at Gu Yuns door, the green gra.s.s had all been stamped on.

Chang Geng pretended not to see dead gra.s.s everywhere and greeted her earnestly. However, due to his wooden look, he seemed all the more sincere and grave: I have troubled Miss Chen, I dont know what I would do if you hadnt risk danger to come at this time.

Chen Qing Xu absently waved her hand: It is what I should do. Ah yes, well, Your Highness, wait for me for a moment, Ill perform acupuncture for you… That, that is…

The tongue of the Chen family woman who was used to every kind of shocking affairs stuttered, her forever dignified sculpted face rarely let out a little hesitation.

The attack of Chang Gengs Bone of Impurity was not known to people. To outsiders, she could only use the excuse that he was seriously wounded and had not yet recovered.

Regarding the matter of using needles to suppress his poison, Chen Qing Xu would not dare to let anyone else do it. Thus she was forced to listen to all of his sleep talks by herself, unluckily putting together a terrifying truth. It had troubled her all night, wrinkles were about to show on her face.

Chang Geng meant to nod to her, but his neck could not be bent. He could only bow, making himself appear more courteous: No, I can manage it myself. I will have to go to the palace later on, I will not bother Miss Chen.

The capital had one of its wall collapse. Although the siege was temporarily relieved, but what followed after was still a complete mess. Excluding those who could not get up like Marshal Gu, other people dared not relax, their breaths suspended in the middle.

Chen Qing Xu listened and nodded, swallowing back what she intended to ask.

Who knew that at this moment, Chang Geng suddenly said, But if you want to ask…

He paused slightly and looked sideways at Gu Yuns closed door. Chen Qing Xu became nervous.

Then His Royal Highness used immovable coffin face and admitted frankly, I truly harbor improper thoughts for my yifu.

Chen Qing Xu: …

This sentence… to say it aloud in such a frank and calm tone, it was quite magical.

He also knows of it, Miss Chen please…

Chen Qing Xu responded unconsciously: I would not tell anyone!

Chang Geng put his hands together, his clothes floating lightly over his body. In a graceful manner, he brushed past Chen Qing Xu like a wind fairy stepping on the sky… no one could tell that there was a hedgehog wrapped in it.

If there ever was a moment where Gu Yun would be grateful to Li Feng in this life, it was the next day when he heard that Li Feng had kept Chang Geng in the palace.

That was no greater relief to him. He wished he could write a request to the Emperor to open a single room next to the Warm Pavilion for the prince, for him to stay there for good and never come out.

On the battlefield, injuries were common, Gu Yun had long been accustomed to them. Being able to wake up meant it already pa.s.sed the most dangerous stage. After another day in bed, he already had enough strength to speak and greet guests.

The first guest he met with was Shen Yi.

Due to Chen Qing Xu refusing to let Gu Yun take the medicine, he could only wear liuli gla.s.s in a deaf and blind state, beginning the conversation with Shen by shouting and sign language.

The two had separated for more than half a year. When seeing the other off, they were still in high spirits. When they reunited, one of them was lying on the bed, covered in bandage resembling a mummy, could breathe in but cannot breathe out. The other straying, wasting away for a few months, withered like an old turnip planted in the countryside.

Old turnip Shen Yi loudly expressed his sentiments towards Gu Yun: We all thought we would have to come collect your body. We did not expect to see a Marquis of Order who could still breathe! Marshal, you did not die even at the face of great catastrophe, this truly is a sign of future blessing!

Gu Yuns face was full of saliva from his expressing, anger immediately arose. He could not see where his future blessing was. Regret already piled up to a basketful, he said angrily: You still have the face to mention that? G.o.dd.a.m.nit, those foreigners landed in Da Gu Port for more than a month, burning the Palace in the western suburb like a stove. Where did your good-for-nothing self disappear to? Even a pile of s.h.i.t has already cooled!

Shen Yi: …

Gu Yun: Get away, stay away from me. Is your mouth broken? Spraying all over my face!

I didnt want to mention this to you, for fear of causing you to be irritated. Shen Yi sighed, rolled up his sleeves and sat down beside Gu Yun without care.

At that time, I did not see any one from the Ministry of War coming to withdraw the Drumming Order, perhaps they were already intercepted as soon as they set foot outside the capital. Those numerous small countries in the Southern Sea resembling pieces of goats feces took this opportunity for their own gain, there was no telling how they managed to discovered the secret pa.s.sages left behind by the bandits, they fell right out of the sky during the night. I was caught off guard, letting them explode the supply storage.

Without the Drumming Order, Shen Yi, the newcomer commander, could not mobilize the garrison in Southern Frontier at all.

I completely had my hands full on that side, suppressing one problem, another one came up. Coincidentally, Xiao Ge also came to find me and brought along a letter from His Highness. At that time, as soon as I read it, I already know it was bad, but unfortunately, I could not clone myself.

Shen Yi shook his head. Later, the wooden bird sent the Black Tiger Emblem and the Feng Huo Order issued by yourself personally. Although I did not expect for that the capital city would be besieged to this point, I still managed to divide half of the men and Ziliujin in stock and personally led the troops back.

The rest of the words, he did not need to elaborate, Gu Yun also understood after hearing this, the problem was Ziliujin.

The northwest was entangled by tigers and wolves, the Black Iron Camp and the Northern Defense Army did not dare to move, otherwise not mentioning whether they could defend the country or not, if they were to be slightly careless, they would easily be surrounded and pursued. At that time, the capital would truly face the Western Navy in the south, the iron armors of the Wolf Tribes in the north.

The trouble from Shen Yis southwestern side could be easily resolved. The true problem was Ziliujin, the stocks of the garrison in the Southern Frontier were already very limited, the remaining amount was not enough to support long-term raids.

I had to go north first to find General Cai to find food, Shen Yi sighed, Who would have expected that on the way there, I would be hindered repeatedly? Do you know who is holding the Central Plains garrison back?

Gu Yuns expression turned grave.

An insurgent army of refugees. Shen Yi said, Old Cais troops were divided more than half by the Black Iron Camp and the Northern Defense Army, only a small amount of troops stayed behind in the Central Plains, struggling back and forth with them everyday. They are only commoners who were forced into a dead end, not beating them would be no good, but directly beating them would not be alright either. Old Cai was too distressed that half of his hair have gone grey.

Gu Yun leaned against the bedhead: How could it be so chaotic?

The problem concerning the riot of unemployed refugees from the area of the Central Plains to the south of Sichuan had always been there, just that before now, it had not reached a higher scale. Shen Yi said. This time, someone had taken advantage of the situation and persuaded these refugees to form a few forces. Seeing that the country will soon fall into chaos, even the Black Iron Camp can be lost by a half overnight, their courage had also become considerably bigger.

In fact, you know, Zi Xi, over the years, I have always felt that it is not quite a good thing for the Black Iron Camp to be too renowned and vigorous. Being cautious of by the one above is one thing. On the other hand, there are too many folk tales. In previous years, it can be used to deter some people with ulterior motives. But once the Black Iron Camp has an accident, even if it is only a blow of the wind, it is too easy to shake the hearts of the army and the people.

The two men were relatively silent for a moment, then Gu Yun said: Dont talk about this useless insipidity, how is the situation now? How many brothers of the Northern Camp are left?

Shen Yis face changed, momentarily not responding.

As Gu Yun saw his expression, his heart turned colder by a half: Wheres Old Tan?

Shen Yi put his hand on his chest to untie a Wind Slasher under the Light Armor and put it silently beside Gu Yuns pillow.

Gu Yun was stunned for a moment, caught off guard. He accidentally touched a wound, gritting his teeth silently, he huddled over in pain.

Shen Yi reached out to hold him. No, Zi Xi… Zi Xi!

Gu Yun waved his hand and said in a hoa.r.s.e voice: Where did the Westerners retreat to?

Shen Yi looked at his face carefully: After the Westerners broke through the Southern Sea Navy, their troops were divided into two routes. One branch was personally led by the Pope, pressing from Da Gu Port to the capital. The other was mainly comprised of suicidal Dong Ying men they hired by money. They drove their armored chariots up north along the ca.n.a.l and across the two provinces of Zhili, Shandong. Local garrisons had never met with a battle before, they instantly suffered defeat. We had also clashed with them on the way, they truly are hard to deal with. Later, General Zhong appeared in Jiangnan and helped Yao Chong Ze to reorganize the ruined Naval Army and go north to help us. That group of people finally made way and retreated back to Shandong Province.

As of right now, the Western Army from the two routes had combined into one, returned to the sea, settling down on the areas of Dong Ying Islands. Im afraid it is not over yet.

Gu Yuns eyebrows tightly frowned, making an Mm sound in response.

Shen Yi had been shouting incessantly to the point of his mouth turning dry, he poured himself a cup of cool herbal tea, chucking it down and sighed, Dont think too much, what you should do right now is to rest and heal up completely, nothing can be done without you.

Gu Yun half closed his eyes and said nothing.

In order to ease the atmosphere, Shen Yi shifted the topic and said: Your little Highness had changed so much. Before, he had hidden his talents ever so tightly, but in the face of a national disaster, he single-handedly stepped up to bear heavy responsibilities. I almost could not recognize him anymore.

Did you know that the Emperor had taken the word Bei from his t.i.tle Yan Bei w.a.n.g?

Yan Bei w.a.n.g to Yan w.a.n.g although it was a difference of only one word, it was moving from being a Jun w.a.n.g to a Qin w.a.n.g*.

A reminder of the statuses from chapter 17: a t.i.tle of one character was called Qin w.a.n.g . For example, the Second Prince was granted the t.i.tle of Wei w.a.n.g. A t.i.tle made of two characters was called Jun w.a.n.g they were slightly lower in status compared to the former, usually separated from the members of the royal family by a grade.

Gu Yun returned to reality and muttered tiredly: What good would it do… getting promoted now.

In order to cheer him up, Shen Yi directly got to the main sensitive topic: Just now I saw him coming out of the palace with Chong Ze, they are on the way, perhaps he will soon come back.

Gu Yun: …

Shen Yi saw his expression as bleak as the bottom of a pot, he asked, What happened?

Gu Yuns body was sore all over from lying on bed for too long. He wanted to change his posture, but it was inconvenient to move. That old maid Shen had sharp vision, but as he saw him struggling hard at the head of the bed, he did not even come up to help but continued the incessant chatter: In the first few days, when you were playing chess with old man h.e.l.l King, His Royal Highness had watched over you all day and night without resting, regardless of his injuries. His body was covered in needles, even his neck cannot be bent, we all could not bear to look. Im telling you Zi Xi ah, he is even better than blood-related…

Gu Yun had no patience left, grumpily interrupting: Blood-related my a.s.s, where do you find so much bulls.h.i.t? Get out of here!

Instead of being frightened, Shen Yi even approached with his face held high and pressed on: Why, what unfortunate deed did you commit to offend the other? Im telling you Zi Xi, His Highness is not the child you can bend and mold however you please anymore, youre almost…

Gu Yun whispered: Brother Ji Ping, please consider how I had nearly sacrificed myself for the country and go away.

Shen Yi keenly caught the words a difficult to express ordeal written on his face.

General Shen had been bullied by Gu Yun for many years, he could not win against him, nor could he talk against him, a long history of hatred had built up. It was difficult to finally be able to laugh at him, there was no chance he would let go of it easily, his curiosity was about explode. Hurry, you see, right now everywhere in the court is bleak and gloomy, lets talk about your misfortune for some fun.

Gu Yun: …

Thus there was no more sound in the room, two people who were shouting at each other started exchanging words through sign language.

After a period of an incense, Shen Yi carried the expression as if he had been struck by lightning, rigidly flying out of Gu Yuns room.

Follw current novls on rewebnol.cm.

Speaking of the devil, the devil arrived. Coincidentally, His Highness Yan w.a.n.g had also returned, meeting with Shen Yi face to face.

Chang Geng greeted him: General Shen had come, how is my yifu doing?

Shen Yi: …

In the face of Chang Geng, General Shen, the governor of the Southwest, changed through several expressions. At last, not even a fart could be let out. As if seeing the devil, he hugged the wall and disappeared.

T/N: The t.i.tle of the last chapter ju ch meaning Destroyed homeland, when combined with the t.i.tle of this chapter fng shng will make up the phrase ju ch fng shng which means to be s.n.a.t.c.hed from the jaw of death, to come back from deaths door

…turned out that not only did his G.o.dd.a.m.n life was not thin, but it was also as tough as a c.o.c.kroach, still alive even after being ruined to this point.

In the next moment, all Heavy Armors moved.

The ruined walls rumbled in the unbelievable sound of footsteps, a group of black iron armors soaked in the thick snow-white steam that could not disperse in the wind headed towards the enemys sea of artillery fire like water against the sea current.

The first batch of Heavy Armor resembled a blade that could block everything, sweeping through like a fierce whirlwind, pushing directly into the enemys line. Heads, bodies, and limbs were exploding into pieces, but strong fire could not burn black iron. As long as the golden box itself did not burst, most of the corpses could still remain upright. The corpses of the officers and soldiers inside were dead, but the mechanical gears were still rotating, as if their souls had not yet dissipated, continuing to rush forward.

When it became difficult to carry on, there would be someone following behind to open the golden box at the back of the black armor and ignite the lead hidden in it.

The officers and men under the iron masks did not differentiate from each other, thousands are united as one. Seasoned commanders were the same as the newly recruited little soldiers in the Northern Camp. They either slayed the enemys heads with a Wind Slasher in hands, were under the enemys artillery, or exploded into a purple firework anonymously.

Li Feng stood on the Red Kite with his arms crossed. He suddenly said to Tan Hong Fei who was ordered to stand on the side, Where is A Min?

Tan Hong Fei was suddenly called, he was stunned for a moment then responded, His Highness Jun w.a.n.g had went up to the city wall.

The hot wind blew away the anger on Li Fengs face. Standing amidst this devastation, he gradually calmed down. He threw the Shang Fang sword in his hand to Tan Hong Fei: Pa.s.s on my verbal decree, the national calamity is at hand, the Crown Prince is too young to bear this heavy responsibility. I am inept and incompetent, buried this nation and its people here, unworthy of the ancestors. I want to pa.s.s the throne to Yan Bei w.a.n.g it is already too late to make a written decree, you can take this to A Min and escort him away.

Tan Hong Fei: …

He grabbed the heavy sword in a hurry, took a glimpse of the rulers face, sweeping his eyes over the greyed temples of Emperor Long An.

Li Feng waved his hand indifferently.

Chang Geng went up to the wall with his longbow, taking over the aerial battlefield.

Tan Hong Fei landed beside Chang Geng in the roar of baihong, carrying with him the Shang Fang sword as if it was a hot potato: Your Highness!

Chang Geng knew what he was going to say as soon as he saw him at the corners of his eyes.

Tan Hong Fei: Your Highness, the Emperor said…

A wounded soldier with only one leg left came up: Your Highness, the rockets are all out!

If the rockets are all out, change to iron arrows. When the arrows are all out, mount the ownerless Wind Slashers. No need to panic. Chang Geng did not even blink, he speaks bluntly, We will stay and defend until the wall collapses to pieces General Tan, you return that thing and tell Li Feng, I do not owe him anything, I do not want to become a lonesome monarch losing their country in his stead.

Moreover, he is now a battle flag, the two armies are confronting each other. The flag cannot be lacking, the brothers sacrificing themselves are all relying on this flag. Keep a close eye on him, do not let him die easily.

At this moment, at least for General Tan, even ten Li Feng was not as helpful as one Chang Geng, thus he tossed back the Emperors instruction to the man himself. He made a long whistle and stood guard closely to the Emperors Red Kite together with several other Black Eagles.

The Heavy Armors under the wall used human flesh to break a blood-soaked path. The roaring explosives and the powerful baihong arrows would be rendered useless. The ground became a deadly battlefield, the Western Army was momentarily at a loss and had to place their efforts in aggravating aerial attack.

Countless Wind Slashers that had lost their owners were mounted on the large baihong bow. After Yan Bei w.a.n.g gave the order, the legendary divine weapons praised by the people were fired off without hesitation like iron arrows, the turning and revolving white blades resembling a dandelion, weaving the wind inside then slashing it to pieces, carrying the names of the deceased, surging forward the ma.s.s amount of Western Eagles.

Chang Geng wiped the dust-covered Qian Li Yan gla.s.s with his fingers, then clipped them on his clear cut and straight nose bridge, he ordered: Mount the second batch of Wind Slashers!

A young soldier beside him was acting as a self-proclaimed personal guard. After hearing his order, using the teenage voice that had not yet changed, he shouted: Mount the arrows!

He then turned to Chang Geng and asked in a low voice: Your Highness, what if the Wind Slashers ran out? Shall we throw stones under the city?

Chang Geng glanced at him, as if with a smile, he said, Although all the ammunition has been exhausted, thanks to Great Liangs Emperors acc.u.mulation over the years, there are still some Ziliujun left inside. If we truly cannot defend the city, then learn from General Han Qi. Splash Ziliujin down the wall, burning the capital altogether, the foreigners cant even dream of taking anything from us.

The young soldier shivered from his careless remark.

Chang Geng: How old are you?

The young soldier was taken by surprise for a moment and said: …Eight Eighteen.

Chang Geng laughed: Dont use this trick with me.

The young soldier scratched his head: …Fifteen.

Some poor families with too many children, when unable to support them all, they would send half of the children to the army to eat military salary. In fear that they would refuse to take them in if they were too young, the families would lie about their ages.

Fifteen. Chang Geng whispered, When I was in my fifteenth year, I followed Marshal Gu to Jiangnan to investigate Wei w.a.n.gs rebellion, I did not know anything. You are better than I am.

At that moment, a group of Eagle Armors in the distance took off at the Popes command.

A Western Eagle held a large explosive, shooting it directly into the city. The large explosives that should be supported by the iron arm of the chariot had a great recoil power, thus as the artillery was shot out, the person holding the explosive on the other end would be repelled to death immediately.

This group of Western Eagles resembled a daring suicidal troop, shooting heavy explosives inside and outside the city wall like rainfall. In the blink of an eye, the city wall immediately collapsed by a half.

The Red Kites were shaken by the waves. w.a.n.g Guo who was hugging tightly to the mast, calling for his ancestors, was pushed aside by a panting Zhang Feng Han.

Your Majesty! Master Feng Han had already taken off his formal attire, holding a fish bubble in his hand. The fish bubble was filled with Ziliujin inside, the shade of deep purple seemingly turning black. He almost famell over due to the trembling of the Kite. A guard beside him was frightened to death, hurrying forward to catch the dangerous object.

Master Feng Han: Your Majesty, the ammunition is now empty. This old subject had followed His Highness Yan Bei w.a.n.gs order, transporting all the Ziliujin we have left to the city gate. The subordinates had been instructed to place them…

Your Majesty be careful!

Protect the Emperor!

Artillery flew towards them, interrupting Master Feng Hans words, grazing past Li Fengs Red Kite. Its corner exploded immediately. It groaned, then leaned to the side.

Another artillery relentlessly pursued after, crashing into the belly of the Red Kite. The Kite lost control under severe damage. Li Fengs pupil shrank into needle-like dots in the midst of the crowds shouting.

Tan Hong Fei roared loudly, his wings suddenly opened, as if they could cover the sky.

In that moment, he grasped hold of the artillery, the Eagle Armor was accelerated to the fastest speed. The high temperature and the impact instantly shot the old Black Iron Camps subordinate who had carried grievances about the old case of twenty years ago, together with the large explosive, becoming a firework that would never return.

…But fortunately, he did not dishonor his mission.

At last, the Wind Slashers that had claimed the lives of countless foreigners on the city wall was all out. Chang Geng looked back at the capital city with not much sentimental attachment, a feeling of pity arose inside him for the Marquiss manor could not be seen from this distance.

Then he raised the longbow, dipped the tip of the iron arrow in ignition oil, and fired at the enemy in the air. The arrow was lit on fire as the oiled tip traveled at high speed, surging like a meteor this was a signal.

Master Feng Han pulled up his sleeve: Red Kites get ready!

In addition to the Kite Li Feng was on, the last dozen Red Kites in the capital took off, resembling a group of dancers dressed in red, wearing beautiful makeup, moving with light steps onto a mountain of blades, a sea of flame carrying Ziliujin, colliding with the Western Eagle Armors coming to find death in the air.

The sky turned grey.

On the wall, Chang Geng was the first to be caught up in the midst. A meager Light Armor that temporarily hung on his body could not withstand the force surging down. He could feel a strong knock against his chest. His eyes darkened, he coughs up a mouthful of blood, instantly losing consciousness.

The little soldier who had just given orders in his stead shouted and rushed over in an attempt to protect him with his own body.

The wall finally collapsed completely.

Chang Geng did not know how long he had fainted, it had taken him a long time to gradually be able to regain consciousness. He found that his leg was stuck between two broken gears, but the young soldier who protected him just now only had a pair of arms left, severed at the shoulders. His body was gone, becoming a cloak of blood on Chang Geng.

Chang Geng gritted his teeth, feeling that the ache all over him was still tolerable. It was far less painful than an attack of the Bone of Impurity.

Perhaps his ears were already injured, voices far and near could not be heard clearly, very chaotic, very blurred.

Chang Geng thought, When Zi Xi didnt take medicine, was his surrounding also became like this? It is quite peaceful.

The wall already collapsed, did the city break down?

Is Li Feng still alive?

Yes, and Gu Yun…

When Chang Geng thought of Gu Yun, he dared not go on any further, for fear that those two words could take away all his courage. He cut off this thought neatly, curled up his body, fumbled at the joint of the armor on his legs, pried off the eight locks one by one, and dragged himself out.

There was still one iron arrow behind him. The longbow had not yet been crushed, he could kill one more man.

As long as this breath remained…

Just before Chang Geng pulled his leg out and managed to stand up, a sudden shadow flashed in front of him.

Chang Geng dodged, subconsciously leaned back and instinctively moved the bow in his hand.

A small wooden bird fell down in front of him, split in two by the iron bow, a ma.s.s of sea grain paper fell out of its belly.

Chang Geng was stunned.

After, the ever so calm Yan Bei w.a.n.g suddenly trembled all over. The light paper was laying on the ground, but even after raising his hand twice, he could not manage to pick it up. His five fingers were trembling too much that it was almost impossible to close them. Only then did he realize the iron guards on his arms had already fallen off, the joints of two fingers were dislocated and no longer listened to his command.

He could vaguely hear someone shouting the reinforcements are here, this should have been the good news everyone had been looking forward to for a long time.

However, Chang Gengs heart did not have time to brew much joy. After the shock had pa.s.sed, there was the rise of an indescribable fear.

Because only when he was determined to die could he temporarily set aside the fact that Gu Yun might have already been incarnated as molten iron.

The path to the afterlife already planned out was suddenly full of obstacles, separated him on this side. Chang Geng was momentarily in a state of being stunned.

Big brother! He vaguely heard a call, and the next moment, a Light Cavalry flew to him. It was Ge Chen, whom he had not seen for a long time.

Ge Chen dismounted, supporting the incredibly miserable Chang Geng, explaining in a stutter: Brother, when, when when I received your letter, I happened to be with General Shen, but it was in the Southern Frontier at that time…

Chang Geng did not listen to even half of his word, interrupting him in madness: Where is Zi Xi?

His voice was so faint that Ge Chen momentarily could not catch it: What?

Chang Geng forcefully pushed him aside, struggling to stand up, heading towards the direction of the outside of the city without care. There was no telling what had injured his back, there was a large stain of blood, running along his clothing and dripped down, but he himself seemed to not be aware of it at all.

Ge Chen: Big big brother? Your Highness!

Chang Geng turned deaf ears, Ge Chen could see a stray arrow coming towards Chang Geng, yet the man did not dodge. He quickly rushed up in a panic and pulled him out of the way. However, after two steps, Chang Gengs eyes were dyed red as if they could bleed.

Ge Chen shuddered, thinking to himself: Not good, did something happened to the Marquis?

Ge Chen had always been decisive since he was young. Using his hand, he struck Chang Geng at the neck and knocked him unconscious.

On this day, the ever-stable imperial city experienced the bloodiest battle in history. The Son of Heaven used himself as a flag, the general died in the flame. All of them had reached their limits. At last, when the wall collapsed, the reinforcements arrived.

The experience and composition of these support forces were very complicated. Shen Yi, the governor of the Southwest, was in command. General Zhong, who had been retired for many years, came forward to fight in his stead. There was also a handful of Jiangnan Navy mixed in it was the remnants that Yao Zhong Ze gathered after the defeat at the Eastern Sea.

Recognizing that their opportunity had been lost, the Western Army was forced to retreat.

Nearly 40 percent of the imperial officers were buried under the collapsed wall. Li Fengs Red Kite had completely lost control. Shen Yi had no Eagle in his hands, he had to warily shoot steel ropes onto the railings with baihong arrows. Mobilizing dozen of Heavy Armors, working their best until midnight, only then did they manage to safely pull Emperor Long An who was suspended in mid-air to land.

Almost all of the Northern Camp, together with its commander, had perished in this battle.

Gu Yun was dug out from the bottom of a Western chariot, several of his ribs were broken. At first, no one dared to move him, for as soon as they did, blood would start gushing out.

At last, General Zhong came to see him personally and dropped a sentence, He is not going to die so easily. If he does, Ill pay for it. Only then did he send several military doctors to fix him on the wooden stretcher and carried him away.

The whole palace gathered several thousand years old ginsengs, intermittently sustaining his life for three days. He had almost reunited with the Old Marquis several times. At last, Chen Qing Xu had come back from numerous mountains and rivers from outside the border.

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She ran to death several horses, and after arriving in the capital, she did not sleep or rest for an entire day. At last, she was able to recover the Marquis of Order from the hands of the h.e.l.l King.

Gu Yun woke up at dusk for the first time. His eyelids could only vaguely feel the light coming through the window lattice. He had not yet been able to open his eyes, yet the sharp pain had already come.

He was not dead, but Gu Yun was not very happy. First, he was startled: Has the capital been lost? Where am I now?

As he struggled wildly in confusion, someone grasped his hand.

The person seemed to know of his worries, he leaned in his ear and said: The reinforcements had arrived. Its alright… the capital is alright.

The familiar scent of tranquilizers wrapped around him, Gu Yuns consciousness could only be sustained for a moment, he then fell into unconsciousness again.

It took Gu Yun several days to fully wake up. The effect of the medicine was long gone, he was once again a blind and deaf who could not see nor hear clearly.

Gu Yun struggled to blink, seeing a blurred figure beside the bed. He could tell it was Chang Geng by the scent.

His mind was full of turmoil, and a lot of questions poured in one after another without care: How many people were left in the Northern Camp? Where did the reinforcements come from? Whose forces were they? Where did the Western Army retreat to? What happened to the Emperor?

Chang Geng carefully dipped a little water to feed him. Gu Yun instinctively raised his hand to search around. There was no telling which wound he had moved, his entire body hurt enough to the point of almost fainting.

Alright, alright, Chang Geng said in his ear, General Shen is back, Teacher is keeping guard. You should worry less, have some rest.

Gu Yun: …

He took a deep breath and calmed down, feeling pain in all organs.

Before, with nothing to do, the Marquis of Order would love to pity himself with Shen Yi, how three generations of Gu family were not fated to have a long life. He always felt that his ill and sick body was destined for a tragic end for beauties, turned out that not only did his G.o.dd.a.m.n life was not thin, but it was also as tough as a c.o.c.kroach, still alive even after being ruined to this point.

Gu Yun opened his mouth, wanting to call Chang Geng. Unexpectedly, after suffering severe injuries and being unconscious for several days, his throat could not make a sound.

Suddenly, his face was touched by something. Gu Yun felt a hand holding his chin, a finger with a layer of callous gently swept over his lips. There was an indescribable feeling of affection that lingered.

Chang Geng was sitting beside the bed. If Gu Yun could see it clearly, he would find that right now, Chang Geng had only half his clothes draped carelessly on his body, his hair was scattered, his shoulders, neck, arms and even his head were covered with needles, becoming a gentle hedgehog.

He sat stiffly like a log at the bedside, even turning his head took great effort. All emotions on his face were sealed with needles. Could not cry and could not laugh, with no choice, he remained expressionless, becoming a handsome full-sized wooden statue.

Despite this, he still had red in his eyes.

Over the past few days, Chang Gengs Bone of Impurity had attacked several times. Chen Qing Xu had to apply needles to forcibly seal off the toxin and made him into a straw doll.

The doll whispered in the soft tone his half-deaf ears could not hear, If this happened once more, I will truly turn mad, Zi Xi, ah.

Gu Yun: …

Although he did not hear what Chang Geng said, the touch on his lips reminded him of what happened on the city wall. For a moment, Gu Yun just wanted to howl who could have thought that he would be able to stay alive to face this matter?

Thus, from his neck down, General Gu stiffened into a tall and upright rod.

Cast aside thousands of shackles and the normal order of life, could this burning affection in desperate circ.u.mstances move his iron heart?

Dust and noise were everywhere. The afterheat of the Ziliujin fire in the western suburbs continued to rise, people were dripping sweat. In the distance, the screeching noise of Eagle Armors taking off could be heard. The anti-air net had not completely failed, but the Western army could no longer wait, using countless Eagle Armors of themselves to test it out.

This Western Army was dragged around by Gu Yun for more than a month, then was blocked by the Nine Gates City Defense and anti-air net. Every days consumption had become enormous, and with each day of futile effort, it had also damaged the patience of the Westerners who came from far away for this expedition which had been planned for more than ten years.

Chang Geng seized Liao Ran and said quickly, Listen to me, the spy cannot be a servant in the palace. We have checked the people around Li Feng more than once. The former dynasty fell due to flattering subjects, our court had never let eunuchs run rampant with power. The Emperor would never make an absurd decision as to leave the Jinghua Garden affairs to a eunuch or an important minister in the court.

…Not to mention, the news of Han Qis departure from the palace made people panic. Everyone all said that the Emperor wanted to flee, but Li Feng had calmly silenced them until Han Qi was about to return. Only then did he reveal the news to me personally, even if he intentionally wanted to pa.s.s the throne to me.

The monk looked at him in bewilderment.

Chang Geng muttered, My brother who does not believe in military generals in peacetime, does not trust in civil ministers in wartime? Who could it be? Who else could there be?

Liao Rans unconscious movement of moving the Buddha beads in his hands suddenly stopped, he trembled. For a moment, the monks complexion was as unsightly as a dead man.

Chang Gengs heavy eyes turned to him: Hu Guo Temple is in the western suburbs.

At that moment, a stray bullet landed next to the two men. Chang Geng and Liao Ran were overthrown by the shockwaves altogether. Chang Geng staggered and could barely remain standing, but the Buddha beads on the monks neck had burst open.

Old wooden beads scattered everywhere in the muddy red dust.

Chang Geng picked up Liao Rans collar and dragged the monk to a stand. Get up, go, if the kill turned out to be a mistake, I will take the blame!

Liao Ran shook his head instinctively. He thought that as he had practiced Buddhism for many years, he had already seen through the sorrow and joy of this world. Only at this moment, when the latter days of the Law* met with the devil, did he realize that the four great emptiness** was only an illusion of self-righteousness.

* , the age of degeneration of Buddhas Law, believed to be the current age in human history, which in this context, in the present timeline of the story

**, everything is empty, a central teaching of Buddhism

Chang Geng pushed Liao Ran forward and met the pale-faced monks frightened eyes: Im not afraid of karma. Im going to handle this. Master, dont stop me, and dont blame me either.

When he was innocent, he had already suffered all menacing karma in this world. Purgatory or the mortal realm, nothing could frighten him anymore.

Chang Geng: Ill borrow some people from my yifu.

Liao Ran stood still, he saw the young Royal Highness make a special gesture towards him. He kicked back his thumb and made a slightly pressing down movement. The wide sleeves of the Princes clothes flew in the air. The silver line on the sleeves flashed like a silver dragon shimmering on the river.

If the world was at peace, we would enjoy fishing, farming, reading and traveling this vast land.

After a long moment of trembling, Liao Ran put his hands together and made a salute to Chang Geng:

If the age of prosperity was on the verge of collapsing, the abyss near at hand, we will face it, even in thousands of death.

This teaching was called Lin Yuan.

Chang Geng let out a low laugh: Fake monk.

Then he turned around and ran towards the gate.

Suddenly, Liao Rans tears came down like rain.

Without knowing suffering, one would not believe in G.o.ds and Buddha.

*A reminder that Lin Yuan, the name of their group, means Approaching Abyss

Gu Yun had gathered all the meager firepower left of the whole capital together in one place, smashing down the city with all their might. Heavy Armors were on standby at the entrance.

For the first time, Chang Geng saw Gu Yun abandoning the Light Suit and putting on the Heavy Armor. His face with no trace of blood seemed to be cast in the hue of black iron by the Heavy Armor.

Hearing the guards report that Yan Bei w.a.n.g had come, Gu Yun turned around, his expression was even worse than when the arrow was pulled out from his body. He stepped forward and grabbed Chang Gengs arm through the steel armor. Why did you come back?

Whats the situation? Chang Geng asked, The Westerners are impatient. What are you planning to do?

Gu Yun did not answer, only dragged him down the city wall. His answer laid within the silence What else is there? Only defend to death.

Its no coincidence what happened to Commander Han, there must be a traitor next to Li Feng, Chang Geng said.

Yifu, give me a group of soldiers, I will go solve the hidden dangers in the city, otherwise, then when they join efforts from both inside and out, the breakdown of the city is only a matter of time…

Chang Geng, Gu Yun completely retracted the regular expression always dyed with a hint of playfulness:

Your Highness, I will order a group of soldiers to escort you away, you must take good care of yourself on the way, do not come back here again.

Even without the enemies joint effort, it may only be a matter of time before the city broke down.

Chang Geng lifted his eyebrows, his intuition told him that the departure Gu Yun meant was not only to send him to the city.

Just then, a loud noise came from behind them, heavy artillery of the foreigners smashed onto the city wall. For hundreds of years, the entrance of the city as steady as metal was shaking. The mottled outer wall shattered miserably, revealing the inner foundation and interlocking gears cast by black iron inside, like a face with its skin being peeled off, revealing the horrid flesh inside.

A corpse of a Black Eagle with his head detached fell next to them. Gu Yun took advantage of his Heavy Armor to protect Chang Geng closely in his arms. The collapsed boulders fell behind him. The broken rubbles splashed continuously onto the surface of the iron armor, the sound ringing nonstop.

They were so close, their breaths almost intertwined. Since Chang Geng had deliberately avoided suspicion, such intimate moments seemed to have never happened again.

Gu Yuns breath was too hot. He wondered if he had a fever, but his eyes were sharp and clear.

What did the Emperor say to you when he was here? Gu Yun said quickly in his ear, Do as he wished, go!

When Li Feng came over, Gu Yun was still unconscious. They did not even talk face to face.

This pair of ruler and subject, under the false image of peace and harmony for many years, constantly speculating about each other, suspicious, cautious of each other yet at the very last moment, they both knew what the other was thinking.

Chang Gengs pupil shrank, he suddenly pulled down Gu Yuns neck wearing Heavy Armor, bravely kissing the others dried and cracked lips.

It was the first time he was able to taste Gu Yun when both sides were conscious. It was too hot, as if it would spontaneously ignite everything, a terrible scent of blood lingered.

Chang Gengs heart was beating fast enough to tear apart, but it was not because of the false pretense of sweetness always spoken of in romantic tales.

His heart seemed to be ablaze with a ferocious wildfire that could destroy the earth and heaven, locked inside his mortal body, almost ready to burst out of this flesh, sweeping across the scene of a fallen country in the present, and in the future.

This moment seemed to be as long as a hundred generations, yet it seemed even shorter than a blink of an eye.

Gu Yun forcibly pulled him off from himself. The strength of the Heavy Armor was something that could not be resisted by a human.

However, he did not get angry with Chang Geng, nor did he throw Chang Geng aside regardless of reasons.

He only loosened his iron hand almost gently and put Chang Geng down, two steps apart from him.

Cast aside thousands of shackles and the normal order of life, could this burning affection in desperate circ.u.mstances move his iron heart?

If he was ready to die on this wall, then would the last person whom he held lips to lips with in this life make him feel that behind him was not a vast emptiness when stepping on the path to h.e.l.l?

Would this be a consolation?

Or…would it only make him laugh?

At that moment, perhaps no one could get a glimpse of hint on Gu Yuns handsome face.

Chang Geng looked at him and said, Zi Xi, I still want to go cut off the path of the spy in the city, I wont be able to stay here to accompany you. If something happened to you today…

When he said this, he seemed to have laughed, shaking his head, feeling that the words I will never live alone were too weak. It would be laughed at by Gu Yun, but it was not at all false words. Would one tell him to live alone with the Bone of Impurity for the rest of his life?

He did not hate himself to that extent.

Gu Yun took a deep breath and shouted, Old Tan!

Tan Hong Fei surged down from the sky.

Gu Yun: Order a group of Light Cavalry guards to escort His Highness!

When he finished, he turned and headed directly towards the city wall without turning back.

The rockets on the baihong bow rose to the sky in full speed and collided brutally with the incoming Eagle Armors. This was the last batch of rockets sent by the Ling Shu Inst.i.tute.

The enemy troops used human flesh as a ladder, dead bodies as bridges. One followed after another without care.

A Western Eagle armor used the blown up body of his companions as a cover, brazenly crossed the baihong firewall, suddenly hurling an explosive into the city, colliding on the Qi Yuan tower.

The Western Eagle armor was immediately hit by a Black Eagle. The iron wing on the side of the Black Eagle was already broken, thick smoke being emitted. There was no sword or blade on the Black Eagles body, thus he locked the enemys shoulder in a dead grasp, both fell from the air together.

Without hitting the ground, the overloaded golden box had burst, the short spark swallowed both the Black Eagle and the Western Eagle.

Perished together.

The Zhai Xing Platform of the Qi Yuan tower rocked twice then collapsed suddenly. At this time, only ruins and debris could be seen in the Grand View of Yunmeng.

The capital with centuries of flourish, with the red wall and gold tiles of eternal dreams, together with broken liuli, fell to the ground,

…turning to ash.

The Golden Hall was in a mess, Zhu Little Feet stumbled under Li Fengs legs, crying: Your Majesty, the Nine Gates will be destroyed soon, Your Majesty must escape! This servant has ordered my adopted sons to prepare the carriage and casual clothes outside the North Gate. There are 130 guards left inside, they will escort Your Majesty to break through the encirclement with their lives.

Li Feng kicked him down with one foot: Dog servant daring to decide things on your own, go! Bring me the Shang Fang sword!

When w.a.n.g Guo heard these words, he also bowed down together: Your Majesty please think twice, as long as Your Majesty is safe and sound, the nation will have a place to lean on, the future has not tasted…

An inner guard held the Shang Fang sword in front of Li Feng. Li Feng drew it, piercing through w.a.n.g Guos official hat.

Li Feng strode out of the hall.

Zhu Little Feet crawled after the Emperor. The six departments and nine branches resembling a herd of sheep in confusion seemed to have found their leader. They could not help but follow Li Feng one after another. On the other side of the Northern Gate, Zhu Little Feets pair of prost.i.tute sons impatiently called out to him.

Zhu Little Feet shouted:, How dare you!

After all, he was still a trusted servant of the Emperor. As a few guards hesitated, the two men took this opportunity to rush in. Just then, the head monk of Hu Guo Temple also arrived, a group of people who appeared to be fighting monks followed behind him, walking to Li Feng.

Li Fengs expression seemed to ease up, but before he could greet Master Liao Chi, one of Zhu Little Feets son suddenly raised his head. His submissive face was filled with murderous intent. He followed after Zhu Little Feet, just five steps away from Emperor Long An, then opened his mouth and spat out an arrow.

No one could have predicted this scene, everyone was momentarily shocked.

In the blink of an eye, Zhu Little Feet shouted, his plump body rolled over and hit Li Feng hard from behind to prevent a fatal blow. Li Feng staggered a step and almost fell onto Liao Chi. He turned back in anger and looked around, Zhu Little Feet had his eyes wide open, as if he still could not believe that his obedient and filial son would turn into an a.s.sa.s.sin, his body twitched like a wooden puppet, his breathing stopped before he could make a sound.

Li Feng held his breath. At that moment, he could hear a Buddhas prayer, but before the Emperor had time to mourn, he felt an icy cold hand on his neck. Master Liao Chis hand hidden inside his sleeve was donning an iron gauntlet, the monstrous hand which could easily crush stones grabbed the Emperors fragile neck. Shang Fang sword fell to the ground in a clattering sound.

All the officials and guards were shocked. Jiang Chong, a weak scholar with no power, did not know where he could find this much courage. He stepped up and asked, Head monk, have you gone mad?

Liao Chi unmasked his usual sorrowful expression and laughed, Amitabha, this monk is not mad. Master Jiang, back then, Emperor Wu was a man eager for wars, sharpening his black iron sword using the neighboring countries, you were probably not born yet.

Jiang Chong: What…

After that, a combat monk took a step forward and said a sentence that Jiang Chong could not understand. Then, several Heavy Armors came out from all directions and stood behind the group of monks.

Dong Ying people! exclaimed the nearby ministers.

Liao Chi laughed and said, That year, Emperor Wu implemented Rong Jin Law, sixteen people of my family died by the hands of the black crows, only I was left, depending on your country. By the light of amnesty given to the world when Old Marquis Gu and the First Princess were married, only then did I regain my freedom. I have since severed ties with the common world, befriended Buddhas teaching, diligently trained for forty-six years, this day had finally arrived.

Li Fengs throat was being strangled, his voice breaking up: You… you are the descendant of those d.a.m.n thieves smuggling Ziliujin deserving a thousand death that year!

Thieves. He repeated without amus.e.m.e.nt, Isnt it? Its all because of Ziliujin the Emperors mouth is hard, your heart is also hard, I dont know if your bones are the same. Please move on to the Red Kite, following this monk for a trip.

Li Feng: I…

The Emperor believes in Buddhas way, Liao Chi said: Its no different than believing in this monk.

After that, he pushed Li Feng directly onto a Red Kite and ordered people to hang the Dragon flag on the Royal carriage on the kites tail.

Cut off the rope and let the Red Kite take off, he said foolishly. When the news comes out, the Emperor said he was going to flee the city by Kite!

Jiang Chong: Courageous thief!

Liao Chi laughed aloud, Anyone who wanted to be a sacrificed p.a.w.n can come up!

Just then, a roar suddenly came from a short distance away.

Liao Chi was stunned. He turned around, he didnt know since when Liao Ran had been standing on the ruins of the Zhai Xing Platform.

The mute monks throat was no good ever since he was small. Even with all his effort, he could only let out an Ah sound. Many people who have seen the master have never heard him make a noise. He seemed to always resemble a fresh breeze, face filled with compa.s.sion.

He was an abandoned baby picked up by the previous head monk and raised by brother Liao Chi since young. Although his ambition was unlike a monk, sneaking out of the temple at the age of eleven or twelve, traveling across the pugilist world, and later even entered Lin Yuan Pavilion, the feelings of his juvenile years gradually paled but always lingered.

Liao Ran signed to him, Brother, repent and the sh.o.r.e is at hand.

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He gazed at his younger brother he had brought up with a fascinated and complicated look. For a moment, even he could not help the arousing of old affection. He seemed slightly dazed, murmuring, The river has already dried up. Where could the…

The word sh.o.r.e had not yet been said, a short arrow the size of a palm suddenly emerged from an extremely tricky angle while Liao Chi was distracted, decisively piercing his throat with one shot.

The crowd shouted in unison, only to see a Black Eagle flying close to the ground. Chang Geng was on the Eagles back, the string of the medium-sized bow in his hands still trembling greatly. Tan Hong Fei was holding a Wind Slasher, sweeping his metal arms, each of them blocking the violent attack of two combat monks.

Jiang Chong shouted, What are you standing there for, protect the Emperor!

The guards of the palace immediately charged forward, a group of Black Cavalry rode out of the alley. Li Feng pushed Liao Chi away, the corpse of the monk rolled down from the Kite.

Liao Ran knelt down in the ruins.

A vast nation, a large world, east and west across the sea, north and south boundless…

Could not let go of a shrine far away from this mortal realm.

The Dong Ying monks and the guards clashed with each other, the Heavy Armor brought by Liao Chi shot an explosive into the sky, Tan Hong Fei directly flew down, Chang Geng landed on one knee with agility. The two men separated, bricks and rubbles flew in the air.

Chang Gengs eyes met Li Fengs for a moment, taking off the baihong bow from behind, he leaned back to gain strength, pulled the iron string to the extreme, bending in the shape of the full moon

A sharp noise rang out, the arrow precisely struck the golden box of the Heavy Armor.

He then withdrew quickly. The golden box exploded instantly, the heat wave shook the Kite into incessant tremors.

Li Feng reached for the balcony of the Red Kite: Tan Hong Fei, drive this thing, send me to the city gate!

Tan Hong Fei was surprised, after a moment of hesitance, he sent inquiring eyes over towards Chang Geng. Chang Gengs gaze slightly lowered, signaling his acquiescence.

The Red Kite carrying the Emperor moved towards the city gate, more than one hundred imperial guards and hundred of officials marched along. On the path from the Qi Yuan tower to the gate, refugees and local people who fled to the capital continuously rushed out from both sides, gathering together like rivers pouring into the vast sea.

At this time, the city gate finally could no longer be sustained. The anti-air net had quieted. The rockets had been used to the bottom.

Gu Yun shouted an order for people to open the city gate.

The Black Iron Camps Heavy Armors that had been in waiting for a long time surged out of the gate. Gu Yun made a gesture with his hand towards the wounded soldiers on the city wall.

The city gate slowly closed behind the Heavy Armors formation.

Gu Yun pulled down his iron protective mask, all the Heavy Armors behind him followed his action.

T/N: my heart breaks

The heart of the earth was burning, the entire capital was trembling.

Because of the Western envoys, the early morning arguments had made everyone tensed. After the court was dismissed, ignoring a large group of people who wanted to probe his intention, Chang Geng helped in supporting the elderly Master Feng Han out of the palace.

People in the capital were in panic, there was a shortage of horse carriage. Gu Yun would usually ask Huo Dan to lead a horse outside the palace to wait for him. But on this day, there was no telling what had delayed Huo Dan, he was nowhere to be seen.

Chang Geng did not pay attention to it at first, walking side by side with the old master of the Ling Shu Inst.i.tute, slowly making their way back.

Master Feng Han spent all day long inside the Ling Shu Inst.i.tute, his eye sockets had sunken in. His whole body was like a radish that had been drained of water, only the pair of brightly shining eyes were left.

Your Highness has the patience to accompany us old things with bad legs and slow feet. sighed Master Feng Han. Do you have any news about reinforcements? When on earth can they come?

Chang Geng: The turmoil in the four frontiers has stuck the five military districts. What the local garrison is like, you already know. In recent years, the military expenditure and Ziliujin quota of each state have been reduced repeatedly. They can hardly afford several Heavy Armor units, most of them used Light Armors.

Although the Light Armor is fast in marching and is easy to mobilize, it is also very easily hindered. Once the enemy forces set Heavy Armors along the road or intercepted by combat chariots, if the commander is a little inexperienced, it would be easy to bring the troops into the enemys encirclement the foreigners wont even have to put out many people.

Your Highness truly made this old man feel ashamed, Ling Shu Inst.i.tute hasnt had any success in creating anything of use for several years now, Zhang Feng Han shook his head mockingly. This useless immortal man could only sit and eat salary, I had intended to request the Emperor for retirement next year. Unexpectedly, we were met with a national disaster, perhaps I would not be able to die of old age.

Chang Geng gently said: Master Feng Hans contributions would last for a thousand years, you must not belittle yourself.

Thousand years…would there still exist Great Liang after a thousand years? Zhang Feng Han pursed his lips. I had thought as I entered Ling Shu Inst.i.tute, I will no longer need to pay attention to the outside world, dealing with fire engine and steel armor for the rest of my life, concentrating on doing my own work.

But the bustling world turned out to be too crowded. Even if the righteous and the villains went their own ways, they would always came across each other. The more you did not want to entangle with anything, the more you wanted to do something outstanding, the more you would end up doing nothing even if one only wished to be the lower cla.s.s with their hands stained in oil.

Chang Geng smiled and remained quiet, he knew Master Feng Han was only expressing his feelings and did not want to hear his reply.

At this stage, the contradiction between the imperial power and the military power of two generations was unquestionably the fuse, but it was not the most fundamental reason the long-term illness of the gradually emptying treasury had doomed them to this bleak end.

Zhang Feng Han said: Every day, the piers of the anti air net are being adjusted. Now the foreigners only dare to drive, a large number of their Eagle Armors dare not to go up, but the strength in the hidden piers are still limited. Ive heard that foreigners use ropes to fly the kites outside the city every day. Im afraid that in a few days, the iron arrows stored in the hidden piers will become unsustainable. What should we do then? Does Marshal Gu have any plan?

In total, there are fewer than 100 Black Eagles in Northern Camp, including those missing an arm and a leg. If the anti air net would fail, perhaps that would be the time when the city would break down.

Chang Geng: Mm, he knows, hes trying to find a way out.

Zhang Feng Hen who was full of concern, hearing this, he did not know whether to laugh or cry. He wondered whether he should say that Yan Bei w.a.n.g was a hero raised from youth, or whether he should say that he was slow-tempered. It seemed that even if the sky collapsed in front of him, the little prince would only reply with I know as if it had nothing to do with him.

Zhang Feng Han deliberately lowered his voice and said, Today, we did not see Commander Han of the Royal Army. Did Your Highness see that? Now there are already rumors in the court that although the Emperor outwardly denounced the Western envoys, he had planned to relocate the capital.

Chang Geng smiled, but he was not at all surprised: His Majesty will not do such a thing, we are not at our last resort yet. I see the cart of Ling Shu Inst.i.tute, allow me to help you up… Ah, here comes Uncle Huo.

Huo Dan was moving over in a hurry, his expression restless, he walked to Chang Geng and said, This old servant is late today, Your Highness please forgive me.

It is alright, Chang Geng waved his hand. What had delayed Uncle Huo?

… Huo Dan took a careful look at his face. The Marquis was injured by Western arrows last night. I had only just heard about it in the early morning. I just went…. Oh, Your Highness!

In Huo Dans and Zhang Feng Hans bewilderment, Chang Geng, who was still strolling casually, suddenly had a change in his expression, turning over and jumped onto his horses back and disappeared like a gust of wind.

In front of the Nine Gates, the smoke of gunpowder had not dispersed, the Western army had only withdrawn at dawn, Gu Yun was able to had a moment of rest.

His armor had indented, the arrow had been pulled out. Two military doctors was surrounding Gu Yun, holding forceps and scissors, carefully prying his deformed shoulder guard down, his clothes had glued to his body.

Chang Geng hurriedly rushed in, his eyes fell on Gu Yun for a moment, then could not help himself and looked away. His expression was even worse than the injured man.

Ah…, Gu Yun took in a shaky breath. I said, can you two be more decisive? Are you doing embroidery how was it?

Chang Geng did not answer, took a deep breath, dismissed the two military doctors, then stooped and carefully observed Gu Yuns armor that was unable to be removed.

He took out a finger-long iron forceps, holding Gu Yuns shoulder close to him, and cut them off from the other side. His movements were very fast, the sharp forceps easily cut through the deformed iron armor, blood immediately soaking onto his hand.

Chang Gengs face tightened up and for a while, he was a little out of breath. He whispered, Injured like this, why didnt you let me know?

Gu Yun who still had his face twisted as he endured the pain, gritted his teeth and said, Its nothing what did the Western envoys say at the meeting?

What else is there to say, spilling loads of nonsense in the Golden Palace, Chang Geng flexed his unsteady fingers, removing the fragments of the armor glued to Gu Yuns body by blood: Said they wanted us to cease the persecution and plundering towards the countries in the Western Regions, let the territory outside Jiayu Gate become a commercial zone for all countries, the legal system inside the zone acting in accordance with their country rule of law, and…

The deformed shoulder armor was completely uncovered. Chang Geng stared at Gu Yuns wound and inhaled sharply. He stood upright and slowed down for a moment.

And what…? Gu Yun shivered, his sweat dripped down. Im telling you, Doctor, how come youre still afraid of blood?

Chang Gengs body was as stiff as an iron rod: Im afraid of your blood.

He grabbed Gu Yuns wine bottle and downed two mouthfuls, feeling dizzy and nauseous. He forced himself to breathe for a moment, Chang Geng then took one of the scissors and cut out the clothes which original color could not be seen anymore.

Thirty-six counties in the Northern Frontier, from Xijing to Youzhou in Zhili, will all be a.s.signed to the Eighteen Tribes, and the capital of Great Liang will be moved to Luoyang of the Central Plains. Princess He Ning will also be sent to the Eighteen Tribes as a pledge. From then on, we will be the subject to eighteen tribes and pay tribute to them every year.

He Ning was Li Fengs only daughter, she was only seven years old.

Gu Yun said angrily, Bulls.h.i.t!

As soon as he struggled, blood started to gush out. Unable to hold it anymore, Chang Geng roared: Dont move!

The two men were relatively silent for a moment. Gu Yuns face was unfathomable, after a long time, he said, … Continue.

In addition, they forced Li Feng to order Shen Yi to withdraw the garrison of Southern Frontiers that occupied the Southern Sea islands, divide the Eastern Sea Ca.n.a.l into rivers, retreat the Southern Navy inward, the outer territory and the Eastern Sea line will belong to the far east region of the Westerners. Chang Gengs eyes were heavy, but his hands remained gentle, wiping the wound for him. He paused and said, Theres still compensation…

Gu Yun was silent but all his muscles had tightened.

On the court today, Li Feng wanted to behead the envoys, the ministers had stopped him. Chang Geng held Gu Yuns unhurt shoulder and said, I will clean the wound now, yifu, shall I seal your consciousness temporarily?

Gu Yun shook his head.

Chang Geng gently advised: I will only use a little medicine, you have a strong resistance to drugs, you will not be sleeping long. If there are changes outside the city, I will defend in your stead…

If you want to wash it then do it, Gu Yun interrupted. Dont talk nonsense.

Chang Geng looked at him and realized that it was useless to reason with this person.

Just then, Tan Hong Fei came running in: Marshal…

Gu Yu turned around, suddenly happening to catch a strange fragrance. With his guard down, he inhaled a mouthful, his whole body instantly turned soft.

The Marquis of Order, wise and adept in martial arts, never thought that His Highness would know this kind of underhanded means of the pugilist world and even use it on himself.

Gu Yun: You…

Without blinking, Chang Geng quickly inserted a fine needle into his acupoint then grabbed Gu Yuns unconscious body.

Tan Hong Fei watched blankly at the door as his commander was being knocked out by someone, staring at His Royal Highness with wide eyes: …

Chang Geng made a gesture for him to stay silent, hugged Gu Yun and laid him down, then began to wash his wound carefully.

Tan Hong Feis tongue stiffened: This…then…

Chang Geng: Its okay. Let him sleep for a while to ease his pain.

Tan Hong Fei blinked a few times long ago, he thought that His Highness Yan Bei w.a.n.g was a kind and gentle scholar. Later, he found out that he could fight well and was amazing at plotting. He was filled with respect for him and wanted to become closer. It was only until this moment that Commander Tan truly felt his admiration for this man.

Tan Hong Fei unconsciously reached out and touched his face. The scar left by Gu Yun had not disappeared yet. He thought to himself, His Highness is too courageous.

Chang Geng: Ah yes, whats the matter?

Tan Hong Fei came back to reality and quickly said: Your Highness, the Emperor has arrived, the carriage is behind, you see…

During the conversation, Li Feng already came in with a haggard look, wearing common attires, bringing with him only Zhu Little Feet.

Li Feng looked down at the unconscious Gu Yun and reached for his forehead: Is Uncle alright?

It was only a flesh wound. Chang Geng wrapped the bandage around the injury, draped a thin silk robe over Gu Yun, and tidied up his silver needles: Its just that I gave him some anesthetic, he will not wake up for a while. Royal Brother, please pardon him.

When Chang Geng finished, he got up and picked up Gu Yuns Wind Slasher. Without wearing armor, he turned to go out.

Li Feng asked, Whats wrong?

I will guard the city in yifus stead for a while, Chang Geng said. Although the envoys are in the capital, I am afraid it will be a trick of the Westerners. Perhaps they will seize this opportunity as we let down our guard to attack, it is better to be cautious.

Li Feng stood in place for a moment, then suddenly grabbed a sword and followed him out. Zhu Little Feet was taken by surprise: Your Majesty!

Li Feng ignored him and went up to the wall.

With the Qian Li Yan in hands, Emperor Long An could see the barracks of the Western Army were not far away, and the fertile soil in the suburbs of the capital was now ravaged. In the past, carriages flowed in and out like water outside the nine gates of the capital that had now turned bleak, a corner of the city wall that had collapsed were held up by sc.r.a.pped armors, faltering.

The ordinary soldiers in the Northern Camp knew Chang Geng, many of them quickly came to greet him, but they did not know Li Feng. They could only see that he was a well-dressed man and had extraordinary demeanor, thus regarded him as a scholarly officer and called him Master.

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The Li family brothers who saw eye to eye but not heart to heart, stood side by side on the wall, no similarity in their appearance from head to toe. Their relation was as thin as a window paper, could easily be pierced through with a single finger.

Li Feng suddenly said to Chang Geng, Han Qi should be back in the afternoon. You can relay this news to Uncle, let him find someone who can be trusted to handle it.

Chang Geng did not inquire any further. He seemed not at all curious and simply answered, Yes.

Li Feng: Not asking where I had sent Han Qi to?

Chang Geng looked down at the wall and stone tiles. After a moment of silence, he said, I have been dispatching Ziliujin and military supplies with the Ministry of Housing for a while, I found that there were some suspicion about the access of Ziliujin in the imperial court in the past few years… but maybe it was Royal Brothers own arrangement.

As soon as Emperor Long An heard about it, he knew that the Ziliujin stock he kept hidden had been detected by Chang Geng.

Li Feng said with some embarra.s.sment, Well, there is a pa.s.sage to Jinghua Garden in Desheng Gate. I had let Han Qi lead his troops out of the city and open the private storehouse of Jinghua Garden. There are… cough, there are 80,000 kilograms of Ziliujin that I havent yet had time to distribute dont make a fuss about it. The hearts of the people are not stable at the moment. If they become aware of the secret pa.s.sage, they could be even more confused.

Chang Geng nodded, he was not surprised this was Li Feng already taking out everything he have got.

The stubborn Emperor Long An, who would rather be buried under the Nine Gates than lose his country and endure the humiliation of becoming a subject to another.

As soon as he fell silent, there was nothing else to say between them in fact, it had always been this way, except for the meaningless courteous words when paying regards and during the courts affairs, there truly was nothing to speak about between the Li brothers.

Li Feng: How old were you when you meet Uncle?

Chang Geng: … I was twelve years old.

Li Feng made an Mm sound in response: Hes not married, and have also commanded troops in the northwest for a long time, perhaps he wasnt be able to take care of you very well?

Chang Gengs eyes moved slightly. Not at all, he truly knows how to love someone.

Li Feng narrowed his eyes to the bleak sky, he remembered that he had also grown up sharing affection with Gu Yun. When he was a child, he would occasionally envy him that his Royal Father would treat the other better, gentler. But most of the time, he still felt that although this Uncle did not play with them much, he was a very nice person.

He had thought that this juvenile love could last a lifetime.

But only just over a decade, its already turned out this way.

A Min, Li Feng said, If the city breaks down, I will pa.s.s the throne to you. You can take the inner palace and the ministers, moving the capital to Luoyang from the secret pa.s.sage first, then slowly strategize. There will come a day when everyone can return.

Chang Geng finally looked at him.

If that day could truly come, Li Feng continued, with his eyes fixed on the distance, You do not have to return the throne to the Crown Prince either, just let your nephews have a place to stay.

Chang Geng did not respond, and after a moment, he said indifferently: Your Majesty had spoken too soon, we are not yet at that extent.

Li Feng looked at his younger brother and vaguely remembered what he had heard from his mother when he was a child.

She said the Man tribes women were all monsters. They were the most capable of using poisons and bewitching people. In the future, they would also give birth to monsters that would stain Great Liangs Royal blood.

Later, the Fourth Prince who had been lost for many years was brought back to the palace. For the sake of the late Emperors will and the name of his own benevolence, Li Feng let him stay. The Ministry of Housing would only have another distribution, in ordinary time, to him, this was all out of sight, out of mind.

Only at this moment did Emperor Long An realize he could not see through this young man.

In face of national calamity and great enemies, he remained unchanged, even the position of the supreme ruler could not touch his heart. The clothes on his body seemed to be the same as last years, the sleeves had been worn out but still have not been changed.

He was even harder to read than Master Liao Chi of the Hu Guo Temple, interested in nothing, as if nothing in the world could move him.

As Li Feng opened his mouth, Zhu Little Feet whispered to him, Your Majesty, its time to go back to the palace.

Li Feng returned to his senses, handed his sword to the officers on one side, silently patted Chang Geng on the shoulder, took a look at the young mans upright figure, then turned away.

After Li Feng left, an ashen-faced monk went up to the city building it was Liao Ran.

The monks of Hu Guo Temple have all withdrawn into the city. He accompanied the head monk, praying for the nation every day. At night, he would secretly use informants to investigate the people around Li Feng.

Chang Geng looked at him.

Shaking his head, Liao Ran signed, I had checked all the people around the Emperor, they all have a clean record, no one had had close contact with the Eighteen Tribes witches and their subordinates.

Chang Geng: The Emperor is doubtful by nature. Our sides repeatedly had information leaked, the spy must be his trusted companion, have you checked Eunuch Zhu?

Liao Ran shook his head with a solemn look Yes I have, there was no problem with him.

Chang Geng frowned slightly.

At this time, Gu Yun, who was put down by Chang Geng with needles and medicine, finally woke up. He almost didnt know what night it was anymore until the dull pain on the shoulder wound came, and then he realized what had happened.

Gu Yun got up and put on his clothes, ready to come find Chang Geng to settle this debt.

Who would have known that as soon as he came out, a loud noise sounded coming from afar. The whole capital was shaken. Gu Yun held the wall and thought to himself, Earthquake?

Chang Geng suddenly turned around from the city building, shadows flashed across his eyebrows. He always thought that the traitor in the imperial city was the palace servant beside Li Feng. But with his cautious and suspicious nature, how could he disclose the matter regarding Jinghua Garden to a servant?

Gu Yun: Whats wrong?

I dont know, Chang Geng stepped down quickly. Li Feng came here just now, saying that he had let Han Qi depart from the secret pa.s.sage and go to Jinghua Garden to transport Ziliujin… Is that the direction of the western suburbs?

Gu Yun woke up completely.

On May 9th, the secret of Jinghua Garden was leaked. The Westerners coming to make peace truly were a cover. But instead of seizing the opportunity to attack the city, they had sent troops to the west of the capital to rob Han Qi halfway.

After struggling in death, Han Qi finally lost the battle. Decisively taking this opportunity, he lit a fire, burning 50 tonnes of Ziliujin, directly exploding the secret pa.s.sage, everything was razed to the ground.

This big flame devoured the whole western suburbs like wildfire. The endless Ziliujin was like the fire of karma brought from the underground. It torched the entire Imperial Army escorting the Ziliujin, along with the surprised Westerners and even the beautiful landscapes and pavilions in Jinghua Garden.

The unique purple smoke reflected half of the sky like an auspicious luck, like glorious sunlight flowing down from the horizon

The heart of the earth was burning, the entire capital was trembling.

The heat stretched for tens of miles, slowly flowing from the western suburbs into the rock-solid nine gates, and the capital which should be still cool in the early summer was momentarily comparable to the stove that was the Southern Frontier.

The originally light and indistinguishable odor of the Ziliujin flowed with the easterly wind, everyone could finally have a taste of that special flavor it was some kind of an indescribable fragrance.

It seemed to be rosin mixed with a scent of gra.s.s.

All the remaining Heavy Armors were mobilized by Gu Yun, the strings of the Baihong bows were tightened.

And as he had expected, the Western Army had also indeed begun moving at this time.

Gu Yun did not know how many Western armies had been burned with that fire, nor how long the Pope could last under such severe loss. After many days of siege, both sides have reached their limit.

Just after that, the first wave of desperate offense arrived. Heavy Armor and chariots moved alternately. Artillery and Baihong arrows fell one after another. There was hardly any gap between the fierce fire power on both sides.

T/N: Brace yourself

Chang Geng looked at Gu Yun and said, Wanted to save up dowry, to wed the grand general.

There was a horrifying silence in the empty city, plunging ones heart to panic. As soon as Master Ja waved his hand, his men immediately scattered to search inside the surrounding houses.

Residential courtyards were built along the riverside, winding and curving, and it was very easy for outsiders to get lost within them as they wandered. Sometimes, they would encounter large stones blocking the path, making the already difficult terrain become all the more complicated and confusing.

Master Ja had an ominous feeling in his heart, suddenly beginning to regret his bold advancement.

At that moment, a Western soldier cried out. All the people around him immediately became frightened birds, instantly drawing their swords. Many steel armours soon formed into a circle, canon with black muzzles pointing at the unusual locust tree.

They saw a Western soldier hanging down from a tree, half of his head had been blown away, there was no telling which battle he had died in. There was a white face mask tied to his b.l.o.o.d.y head this time it had changed into a crying face!

An explosive noise sounded. It turned out to be an armored soldier who had shot the cannon out of nervousness. The body on the tree was suddenly blown up into pile of meat and fell down. Then, a horrifying laugh sounded, all the soldiers underneath hurriedly retreated as if they were in the presence of a great enemy.

A moment later, a round-faced owl emerged from the crown of the tree, looking at the two-legged animals under it. Then, the owl fluttered its wings and flew straight into the sky, spreading its strange laughter everywhere.

Frightened people into a cold sweat in the broad daylight.

Sir Jacobson, will we continue the search?

Master Ja swallowed with difficulty: No… Retreat, get out of here, quickly!

He had not yet finished speaking, when suddenly there was a sharp noise of explosion in the distance, followed by several blood-curdling screams. Large fireworks soared up into the sky, exploding brightly.

Someone shouted in fright, We were ambushed!

Withdraw!

Leave now!

The sound of cannons and arrows rang out in unison. Several explosions caused by someone unknown knocked down the already unstable stone houses. The disarray of rubbles combined with the large stones that had blocked the road caused the empty city to quickly become a big maze.

The map in the hands of the Westerners became a piece of disposable paper. The drawbacks of their unfamiliarity in terrain instantly became clear. A group of Heavy Armors and foot soldiers were deeply trapped inside, resembling flies without heads. For a moment, they werent able to find a way out.

Master Ja had no choice but to whistle for the Eagle Armors, for them to take off and command from the sky. For better or worse, there would be someone to lead them out.

The panic-stricken Western Army retreated to the city gate. There was no telling who happened to touch some kind of mechanism. A tooth-aching noise of gears rang from the city gate. For a moment, all the Western soldiers drew their bows, all arrows pointed to the building, ready to fire, but something slowly fell down from it.

Master Ja pushed aside the frightened guards to take a look and was furious to find it was another white face mask. This time it was the face of a demon!

Master Ja: …

Sir, we… Shall we take a detour?

Master Ja raised his hand to interrupt him and stood in place for a moment, his expression darkening: His Majesty is right. Gu Yun has no trump card in his hand, he can only rely on these underhanded tricks. Are you all already frightened by the masks? Ambush…Hmp!

He let out an angered laughed then said coldly, Demolish this city for me, let me see where they could hide!

However, more than one hour later, Master Ja, who razed the empty city to the ground, searched in the ruins three times, finally had to admit that this G.o.dforsaken place had wasted his countless valuable time, money and Ziliujin. It truly was an empty city. The so-called ambush consisted of only two masks and an owl that had soon flown away.

Master Ja tightened his teeth to the point of almost drawing blood: Where are the path-finder Eagles? Go at full speed!

At this time, on the path from Dongan to the capital, Gu Yun, who was hiding under the tree, received the Qian Li Yan given by Tan Hong Fei and watched several path-finding Eagles whistling from the top of their heads and speeding towards the capital.

He spat out the straw he was currently chewing in his mouth and patted the Wind Slasher behind him: Old Lian, you have made a grand contribution.

Tan Hong Fei asked in a low voice, How was it?

Can you see that? Gu Yun said lazily, The foreigner in charge must already be dead or wounded by now. The current leader is obviously unfamiliar with the area around the capital, otherwise he will not be as impulsive as to send Eagles to fly around.

In the imperial city, the capital had always been strict, no one is allowed to sneak a peek at will. Black Eagles dared not fly around, even in exceptional times, and they could only land at the base of the Northern Camp then ride into the capital on horseback after removing the Eagles armor.

But most people did not know, the reason why the Black Eagle dared not fly was not because the Black Iron Camp was particularly strict in following regulation. Gu Yun knew that once the Eagles flew across the border, it was easy to make contact and run into the anti-air net.

Outside the Nine Gates of the Capital, there is an invisible anti-air net, built during the reign of Emperor Wu and took thirty years to complete. It was a masterpiece of the Ling Shu Inst.i.tute. There were numerous hidden piers* under the net, and the main commander was on the top of Qi Yuan tower.

*these are pillar-like structures

The reason why the building was so high was that besides providing food, drink, and entertainment for visitors from all over the world, it also played a very important role it was the main pier of the anti-air net.

There was a Tian Yuan Di Fang* Pavilion on the Zhai Xing Tower**, locked up tightly behind layers of doors in peacetime. For the sake of this Tia Yuan Di Fang Pavilion, it had made bald of many masters of the Ling Shu Inst.i.tute. It would create a special optical network outside the nine gates and was very tightly knitted. Even at night, it would be easily be covered by the light of stars, moon, and flame. Unless one had unusual abilities, it would hardly be visible to the naked eye.

*, lit. Round Sky, Square Earth: an ancient traditional Chinese philosophy where people believed that the sky is a rounded dome and the ground is flat. This was also incorporated in their architecture.

** Star-plucking Tower, first mentioned in Chapter 22

This layer of optical network was 300 feet up from the ground and would not affect the people and animals on the ground. If someone flew by using the Eagle Armor, at low alt.i.tude, they would be discovered by the gate guards, there would be baihong arrows waiting for them. If the Eagle flew above 300 feet, it would touch the anti air net.

The light would then be reflected back to the Tian Yuan Di Fang Pavilion, then back to the covert piers in the area of the anti air net through special mirrors. The piers would then move in accordance to the light signal and would lock on the position of the offender, shooting arrows from all directions. If the Eagle tried to dodge, they would soon find that in the scope of the forbidden net, where there were secret piers, arrows would continue to follow them inseparably like shadows.

Only on New Years Eve, the Tian Yuan Di Fang Pavilion would temporarily close the anti air net for its annual maintenance, and the task of keeping watch would be handed over to the guarding station on the Red Kites.

That path-finding Eagle will not be returning, the commander of the foreigners will soon remember the legendary anti air net in stories. Under the command of the Feng Huo Order, all Red Kites will go up to the sky, and the position of the anti air net will change accordingly. For a while, they will not know where that mechanism had run to. The closer they approach the capital, the more afraid they will be to let the Eagle Armor fly too high…

Gu Yun whispered to Tan Hong Fei, Give orders, tell the brothers to rest well, we will start at night. The Black Eagle goes first, suppress them from high places. Light Cavalry will ambush them from both wings, breaking up the enemy line. Do not be eager to fight, attack then leave, do not get yourselves trapped inside. The chariots will pretend to block their path, blowing up two or three rounds then let them retreat. Do not force the other party to their last resort. Our troops are not strong enough.

Tan Hong Fei asked in a low voice: Marshal, why didnt we ambush inside the city?

Whos going to ambush in broad daylight? Gu Yuns eyes widened. Is there problem with your brain?

… Master Ja must have sneezed twice.

Tan Hong Fei carefully considered it for a moment, feeling it was quite reasonable. He then asked: Marshal, how do you know they will come here at night?

Gu Yun: It was calculated by your Yan Bei w.a.n.g, fine him money if he turned out to be wrong. It doesnt really matter, even a small amount of his lucky money is already more than half a years salary of mine.

Chang Geng was sitting at one side repairing the leather grip of the iron bow. After fighting a long battle, bits of it had torn away. No one knew where he had found a small knife that he was using, currently filing a small piece of leather. His fingers were incredibly adept, causing one to be dizzy. As he was suddenly named, Chang Geng did not raise his head either, he laughed at Tan Hong Fei and replied: Either way, everything from top to bottom belongs in the account books of the Marquiss manor.

Tan Hong Fei was a crude man, his way of thinking being All comrades are my own arms and legs. After fighting side by side in the first battle with Yan Bei w.a.n.g, he had soon considered the other to be his family, not caring who his mother was. After hearing this, he teased without care: Your Highness and Marshal are as close as one. If only you were a princess, we might have another Princess tent in the Black Iron Camp as we did in those days.

*In case anyone forgot, Gu Yuns father was a Marshal and his mother was a Princess.

Gu Yun: …

He could not help licking the itchy root of his teeth.

Chang Gengs hands came to a halt for a moment, then continued General Tans words: Unfortunately, I am not beautiful as a flower or a jade, your Marshal with a cart filled of fruits would not want me.

*a reference to Pan An, a writer during Jin dynasty.

Whenever he went out, every ladies old and young

would throw him fruits to express their adoration.

Tan Hong Fei said mindlessly: Oh, it isnt right, the Emperor usually calls Marshal Uncle, theres a gap between generations!

Gu Yun: … Go away!

General Tan who only said a few words of jest, together with Yan Bei w.a.n.g who harbored different intentions in his heart, looked at each other and laughed aloud.

At night, a cuckoo call came from the distance. It was a signal that the enemy had entered the trap. Tan Hong Fei was pressed back down by Gu Yun as he moved to stand up.

Wait a bit longer. Gu Yun whispered, Until the fourth period.

His eyes shone in the dark, like a pair of divine weapons that had been sharpened by blood.

Tan Hong Fei couldnt help from licking his dry and cracked lips: What kind of calculation did Yan Bei w.a.n.g make? Really…

Gu Yun was about to say, His teacher is Old General Zhong. Unexpectedly, he did not know when Chang Geng had came closer and suddenly answered from behind, I had spent all day long carefully calculating, gradually grew accustomed to it.

Tan Hong Fei: Huh?

Chang Geng looked at Gu Yun and said, Wanted to save up dowry, to wed the grand general.

Gu Yun: You two are quite persistent, arent you?

Th most uptodate novls are publishd on reewebove.com.

That idiot Tan Hong Fei laughed. Gu Yun was helpless with this G.o.dd.a.m.n type who always mentioned things that should not be mentioned and spared no effort to make the Marshals heart more uncomfortable. No one knew when, Chang Geng that kid had become more and more careless in front of him. That day at the hot spring, Gu Yun advised him to let go of burden. As it turned out, he truly did take it to heart and packed up lightly for him to see.

Chang Geng was very understanding of proper advancing and retreating. After teasing Gu Yun, he immediately mended things over: Yifu, Im only joking, dont be angry.

Tan Hong Fei: Our Marshal does not have much of a temper. This old Tan had lived these many years, I have only ever seen him become angry once at the palace…

As soon as these words came out, Even Tan Hong Fei knew that he had made a mistake, closing his mouth in embarra.s.sment.

Gu Yuns expression faded.

Tan Hong Fei was not good at holding back. After a while, he still could not help himself from saying: Marshal, that is…

Gu Yun cut in: Tell the Eagles to get ready!

Tan Hong Feis teeth tightened, finally helpless, he sighed.

Chang Geng patted him on the shoulder. Ill go.

It was the darkest hour before dawn when the night deepened, the moon faded and the light began to rise.

Master Ja was frightened on his march during the day, afraid of being ambushed by Gu Yun several times. He was both fearful and furious, not daring to relax even after setting camp at night. For fear that one of Gu Yuns false ambushes would suddenly become a reality, he did not dare to close his eyes to rest throughout the night.

Watching the long night pa.s.sing by, there was still no movement around. Master Ja finally could no longer stand it and took a short nap.

Unexpectedly, just as he was falling into a deep sleep, there was a loud explosion as if the entire camp had been bombed. Master Jas whole body broke out in a cold sweat, instantly getting up and rushed out. The whole night sky was lit up in flame.

My lord, get away!

A cl.u.s.ter of arrows glinting with fire fell from the sky. Master Ja was pushed aside by a guard. The night breeze became hot enough for cooking, two teams of Black cavalry resembling whirlwind charged over.

Heavy Armors! Master Ja roared, Dont panic, there arent many soldiers in Central Plains…

Before he finished, there was a loud noise behind him. A line of chariots mysteriously appeared. For a moment, sand and rocks were flying. It was incredibly chaotic.

Master Ja was an expert in creating rift, turning countries against one another and was well-versed in scheming, but he was not a effective commander on the front line. He was too accustomed to careful and deep planning. Once the enemy exceeded his expectations, he would easily be unable to react in time and lose control of his troops.

Suddenly, an indescribable sense of chill climbed up his back. Master Ja felt as if he was a frog locked down by a snakes killing intention. He turned around in fear and found an iron arrow shooting through the night sky like a meteor chasing the moon, heading straight for his face.

Master Ja had no time to hide. In the crucial moment, a Western soldier in Heavy Armor roared and covered him. The iron arrow penetrated through the thick steel plate of the Heavy Armor, the sinister arrow head showing through the back of the soldier.

Master Ja watched the force approaching with alarm and saw a young man standing on the back of a Black Eagle, a long bow in his hand.

He was wearing the gla.s.s used for aiming from the Qian Li Yan on his nose, looking at… no, glancing at him from above, his gaze seemed to contain poison.

Master Jas personal guards immediately pointed the cannons at the Black Eagle in the air. The young man seemed to have smiled, shook his head with an indifferent expression that conveyed this target cannot easily be hit. Then, he jumped down from about twenty meters in the air without hurry, separating from the Black Eagle, just in time to dodge an explosive reek of the scent of gunpowder.

Gu Yun immediately charged forward and caught Chang Geng who had jumped directly from the Eagles back. The Wind Slasher in his hand, driven by the steam, transformed into an invisible whirlwind. The horses hooves rose high, the cutting edge swept by in a circle, followed by numerous shrieks and cries. Somebodys blood had splashed on the cinnabar beauty mark on the corner of his eye. He then ushered the horse with his feet, in the blink of an eye, the war steed had jumped off the battle circle

Gu Yun forcefully gave Chang Geng a smack. b.a.s.t.a.r.d, do you want to find death?

Chang Geng intended to jump down directly. Before landing on the ground, he would use the Light Armors leg protector on his feet to speed up and cushion the fall. Unexpectedly, Gu Yun had interfered. Momentarily in a state of shock, he stared at Gu Yuns face only inches away from his. His chest shook violently and he almost could not sit still, grabbing hold of Gu Yuns cold iron guard on his wrist.

His gaze tore through the calmness on the surface, fiery as a living object, Gu Yun was angered: What are you looking at!

Chang Geng calmed down with difficulty, retracting his flaming eyes under the eyelids and coughed dryly: Its time to cast the net.

Gu Yun pulled him to his chest then turned around and whistled. All Light Cavalry immediately gathered together and rushed toward the enemys line like blankets. The Western army which had been shot heavily by the Black Eagles in the sky finally began to regroup with difficulty, Master Ja roared, Open a path with Heavy Armors, tear a hole in the rear!

There was no need to tear it open. The battle front of the Northern Camp chariots were arranged in a very feeble formation, withdrawing as soon as they made contact and letting the Western troops retreat.

Gu Yun made a gesture to Tan Hong Fei not far away. The Light Cavalry quietly withdrew, resembling a group of wild wolves that did not know what strategy was, running off as soon as they managed to take a bite, stopping just in time.

Otherwise, waiting until the Western troops came to and reacted, their meager Light Cavalry would only be nothing more than food for the enemy. Of course, when they did, the black whirlwind had blown away and disappeared into the darkness without a trace and could no longer be found.

On April 15th Long An seventh year, the Black Iron Camp attacked Western troops at night in the west of Dongan City.

On April 17th, the Western vanguard forces was led around in a circle by the nose by the Black Iron Camp for a few days. Finally unable to go on with this disturbance, they had sought reinforcement from their navy backup, then remained still in one place.

On April 23rd, the Western Army reinforcement arrived. Black Irons Light Cavalry was forced to retreat. The Western Army continued their pursuit after gaining victory, rushing to Wuqing. They ended up being led into the trap to trigger the anti air net by Gu Yun, more than half of the Western Eagle Armors were damaged, they were forced to retreat once again.

On April 26th, the Popes condition had shown signs of improvement, he immediately returned to command the battles himself.

On April 29th, Wuqing fell.

On May 3rd, Daxing Mansion was heavily shot by the Western Army.

With tens of thousands of Western troops pressing forward, Gu Yun brought a group of Light Cavalry and Eagle Armor from the Northern Camp to attest to them for nearly a month, in the end, he could not continue for any longer.

On the 7th, Gu Yun retreated back to defend the capital, all nine gates were tightly closed, the reinforcements still had not arrived.

At this moment, resentments and enmities had all been pushed outside the city wall, the capital of Great Liang entered the summer in the shade of green trees, but there were no sight of flower boats singing on the artificial lakes in the city. At last, the Westerners sent out their dignified envoys.

Gu Yun shouted angrily at the front, Who allowed you to copy me, Im about to urinate already!

Tan Hong Fei who followed Gu Yun out of the marshal tent was stunned. He never dreamed that one day, he would be able to put on the Black Armor again. Suddenly, his heart that was filled with sorrow all but vanished. He felt that after this battle, even if blood was shed and heads would fall, it would all be worthwhile.

Tan Hong Fei took a step forward and said aloud, Your subordinate is willing to be the vanguard for marshal!

You are indispensable. Baihong chariot opens the path, Light Cavalry and Black Eagle follow me, Heavy Armor crushes the battle, Gu Yun ordered, Give me a Wind Slasher. What kind of devil, we will only know after we see them.

Chang Geng untied the long bow behind him. This was given to him by Gu Yun when they were fighting bandits in the southwest. It seemed like it was the last decent work that the Ling Shu Inst.i.tute could put out after Emperor Long An began to reduce military power.

Unfortunately, the gaudy bow was so heavy that it could not be controlled at all if werent handled by a true expert. Therefore, there was only such one made for trial in the whole army.

And it could have been popularized in the army after undergoing improvement…

Chang Geng touched the cold bow and asked, Yifu, can I follow you?

Gu Yun stopped. He partially did not want to take him along not because of anything else, but through this battle, his heart had had more expectations for this newly emerging young prince. He might be able to sacrifice himself to defend to the last step, but what would come next?

Who would clean up this broken and tattered home country? Who would break through with a way out for the thousands of families and people in this mess?

Chang Gengs way of socializing was much more thoughtful compared to himself when he was young, perhaps he would not end up like him, arguing with the Emperor to this irremediable situation…

Chang Geng seemed to know what he was thinking: There are no unbroken eggs under an overturned nest. Now the capital is already like this. Waiting in the palace is no different from going on the front line. In case the city breaks down, isnt the only difference was to die sooner or later?

Before Gu Yun could speak, Tan Hong Fei had laughed aloud and said, Your Highness speaks well! The entire court had nothing but scholars, only Your Highness is a real man!

Gu Yun could do nothing, he waved his hand and said, You already spoke of everything. Come if you like.

He then stared at Tan Hong Fei, looking at General Tans unhealed whiplash on his face and wanting to whip the other side and turn the man into a symmetrical pigs head.

Beyond the capital, countless Black Eagles formed into rows, as one took a glance, they could feel as if they have returned to the Crescent Spring.

Looking from the horseback, the light of Qi Yuan tower remained brightly lit even in the heavy rain, as if covered with a thin and soft veil, facing the majestic imperial city from afar. Twenty Red Kites which rose only on New Years Eve now hung in the sky, resembling sorrowful longing eyes sending them off.

Gu Yun made a gesture with his hand. The vanguards of the Northern Camp moved quietly with neither tragic songs nor grand speeches. They traveled in the rain, their masks and helmets without a gap made them appear much like iron puppets with no emotions.

Heavy rain floated the capital on the water, the old bluestone could serve as the witness.

That night, the Western Navy raided Da Gu Harbor up north. Lian Wei, the commander of the Northern Sea Navy, led his three hundred large Dragons and a thousand small ships to adhere to it. Firstly, the large Dragons were connected by iron chains, moving side by side and formed into a fence outside the harbor. They stood their ground until the hour of the Mouse* of the next day, all Dragons were buried under the gunfire of the sea monster, not a single one was lucky enough to make it out.

*12:00pm to 12:30pm

The Nothern Sea Navy contained 36,000 rockets, 100,000 steel baihong arrows none were left, all were sunk into the raging waves deep under the ocean.

After resources had run out, Commander Lian Wei ordered all the small ships to run at full speed. With the ships as ignition, they used themselves as Baihong arrows, charging into the enemys line.

Fire floated on the sea, the soul of loyal soldiers crushed to pieces.

The Northern Sea Navy collided, sank, and bombed nearly 3,000 naval warships of the enemy. At last, it forced the sea monsters to open their iron tentacles in the midst of rain, releasing the hidden Eagle Armors inside and disembarked in a hurry from the air. They later found that there was no one left on Da Gu Harbor.

At the beginning of the hour of the Tiger*, the Westerners that landed on the sh.o.r.e were incredibly disheartened. Eager to make up for their grave losses in this battle, they did not stop but went directly for the capital, meeting the Black Iron Camp on the way the Black Iron Camp that had only been formed by Gu Yun overnight clashing outside Dongan City.

*3:00am

The Western Navy who had not yet recovered from their costly landing was caught off guard. They were first under attack by 80 chariots. Light Cavalry then appeared from all directions, surrounding them. Eagles flew high in the sky, their screech as sharp as blades.

The Popes personal guard suddenly met with the Wind Slashers and was almost scattered by the Cavalry on the spot. They hastily retreated back outside of Da Gu Harbor to reserve their troops.

Great Liang had not had such a thrilling night for so many years. Battle reports and messengers rushed to and from the palace much like a market gathering.

No one in the capital was able to sleep until the next morning, when the news of victory arrived together with the light of dawn.

Suddenly receiving the first good news after so many days, Li Feng could hardly stand up, wondering whether he should cry or laugh.

The rain had stopped, the sky was clear. Haihe River surged overnight and the air was filled with an indescribable scent, mixed with the smell of smoke and blood. The ground had warmed up and the humidity had not yet dissipated. Gu Yun had no naval force, after a long night of fierce battle, the Westerners was forced to retreat, utterly defeated.

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Gu Yun sat beside the canon with its muzzle that had yet to cool down. The black iron helmet was thrown aside, his messy hair hung down in disorder. He received the medicine handed over by Chang Geng and downed it all.

Chang Geng said, I did not bring needles, and even if I did, I would not dare to perform it for yifu.

Pulling the string of the iron bow all night, his hands were left with a deep impression. Even now they had not recovered and continued to tremble slightly.

Gu Yun grabbed his wrist and pulled it closer to him. Seeing that he only had exerted his strength and was not injured, he waved his hand in relief: Dont worry about me, go calculate the casualties. Old Tan wont be able to count them all.

After that, he simply leaned on the canon and closed his eyes to rest for a moment.

A moment later, Gu Yun was woken up by a messenger from the imperial capital.

The person coming was a young soldier of the imperial army. At his rank, he could hardly ever get to see Gu Yun. At last, he could meet the Marquis of Order in the flesh, he truly could not help himself with the excitement, charging over on his horse. When dismounting, there was no telling what he had tripped on, but he rolled all the way under Gu Yuns feet: Marquis sir!

Gu Yun shrunk his feet in a hurry: My, what is the grand courtesy for?

The messenger said excitedly, Marquis sir, Your Majesty had ordered me to come and reward the Northern Camp, bring with me… bringing…

Great, excited to the point of forgetting what to say.

No wonder the Imperial Army was utterly defeated by the Northern Camp. With no other choice, he had to climb up and pat his head. There is no need to report to me, let General Tan handle it.

You go back and tell your Majesty to not rejoice so soon. The Northern Camp only had a few soldiers, after everyone is all gone, I would not be able to magically manifest new people either, at that time if the reinforcements dont come…

The messenger looked at him in bewilderment.

Military strategy teaches: in a battle, use direct methods to engage , use indirect methods to win. Perhaps many people only remembered use indirect methods to win, always thinking that a talented general would be able to find a path for survival in a dead end, saving a staggering building by their own efforts but how could that be possible?

Unless Gu Yun could use mud to create a G.o.dlike army who did not need to eat, drink or fear weapons.

The news of the first victory had been sent to the capital, how joyful would the ministers be right at this moment, but what would be the next step? Not discussing the long-term tasks of battles for national strength and battle for reserved resources, but only the task at hand right now, with just a handful of troops, what could he do?

Gu Yun knew that no matter how prestigious this opening battle might have seemed, it could not change the fact that he was only taking advantage of the location to resist.

With a pained smile, he left the Emperors messenger behind, moving to Tan Hong Feis place.

Tan Hong Fei held a Wind Slasher with one head that had already been flattened, the top that had been burnt still had half of the character Lian inscribed on it.

Many officers and soldiers would engrave their names on their Wind Slasher, so that even if they take them for repair, they would not have to worry about finding their old fellow who have been through lives and deaths with them afterwards. If the owner were to die on the battlefield and the body could not be found, their comrades would bring back their Wind Slasher and pour a pot of wine as offering, the soul could then be considered to be able to rest in the afterlife.

Tan Hong Fei lifted up the cutting edge with both hands and handed it to Gu Yun: Marshal.

Gu Yun received it. Suddenly, he had a feeling that the Black Iron Camp, which had undergone many disasters and hardships, many reunions and separations, but always laid under this home country, like a seed, they scattered in all directions and grew into large trees piercing the sky unbeknownst to anyone.

Chang Geng came up behind him and said, Last night, thirteen chariots were damaged, five hundred Cavalry were killed in battle, nearly a thousand were seriously injured, not counting the minor injuries. Twelve Eagle Armors fell, most of the golden boxes had exploded in the air. Im afraid their bodies had been…

Gu Yun nodded, feeling that this number of casualties was acceptable: This was all thanks to General Lians contribution.

Chang Geng whispered, Im afraid someone will come for a truce discussion at the morning meeting.

They will not, Gu Yun said. The Westerners suffered such great losses last night, they had no faces left to come for a truce. Unless they besieged the capital to the point where we have no way of flying, they would never talk to us.

… And that was just a matter of time.

Chang Geng was silent for a moment: I have heard that an Emperor of the former dynasty who was subjugated by the northern barbarians had secretly escaped from the secret pa.s.sage when the capital was besieged, if we truly could not defend…

We must defend even if we cant. Gu Yun suddenly said, Do you know the Jinghua Garden in the west of the capital?

Chang Geng was stunned.

Gu Yun raised his index finger to his lips and made a shush gesture, for him not to go on further. Jinghua Garden in the west of the capital was a summer resort built between Yuan He Dynasty and Emperor Wu Dynasty. In those days, they would go to Jinghua Garden every summer for cooling for the former Emperor was not able to tolerate heat.

But after Li Feng ascended to the throne, the cost for eating and dressing had become simpler. Even the money for the queen and the imperial concubines makeup was reduced by half, there no longer exist the flashy traditions such as hunting or spring travels.

Yet such a thrifty man who was far different from his father, still kept the habit of going to the palace every summer but not for enjoyment. With the palaces government affairs piling up, he usually got up early to rush to the palace, then rushed back before nightfall, walking around the capital resembling a wandering dog. Not to mention cooling, it was already a miracle to not contract a heatstroke.

Li Feng subjected himself to such suffering, if he was not insane, it could only mean… there was something of great importance in Jinghua Garden that he must check on it frequently.

How keen was Chang Geng, an idea immediately came up his mind: all the Generals on four sides are involved in the smuggling of Ziliujin, then what about the Emperor himself?

In such a hurry, he hadnt had time to check the account books of the Ministry of Housing and the Ministry of Military Affairs… but with Li Fengs character of wanting to grasp everything in his hand, it was not surprising for him to build his own private Ziliujin storage.

Gu Yun: Your eldest brother does not trust anyone. This is only my guess, dont tell anyone else.

Chang Geng frowned: This is troubling… will Li Feng make peace then?

Gu Yun laughed and shook his head. Its possible for someone to come and make peace with him, mm… he would not run either.

Chang Geng placed both hands behind his back, the blood and mud on his body had dried up the night before, making him appear quite colorful. The young Yan Bei w.a.n.g while wearing this colorful appearance, slowly walked as if he was strolling in the imperial garden one spring afternoon, then after a moment of thinking, he commented lightly: Yes, Li Feng is not afraid of death, he was afraid of other things.

Gu Yun couldnt help looking at him. He found that Master Feng Han was right. Chang Geng really seemed calm and relaxed at all times, he suddenly asked, When on earth did you become a slow-tempered person?

When am I slow-tempered? I am very impatient right now. Chang Geng laughed: This is actually what I have learned from yifu. I found that whenever yifu was uncomfortable, you often pretended to be very excited, and as this joy showed on your face, in turn, it would make your heart feel much better. Hence, every time I found myself feeling particularly impetuous, I would deliberately slow myself down a bit, and find that I could actually became calmer. Ah, too much fire is not good for health. It could easily…

… cause you to not sleep well. Gu Yun had heard him said this more than once, he was able to smoothly continue his words: How much do you really care about sleeping? And moreover, when did I ever force myself to laugh when I feel unhappy?

Chang Geng lifted his eyebrows, gave him a leisure look, his face conveying: Whatever you say.

The whole army prepare to withdraw. Gu Yun said tiredly: The injured move first, in a short time, the Westerners will react. We will set out for an ambush.

After two steps, Gu Yun felt his body was utterly exhausted. He could not help but think of Chang Gengs heresy that no one knew from which doctor he had learnt it from. He took a sip of wine from the bottle at his waist, carried General Lians Wind Slasher behind him and whistled.

The horse trotted to him at the sound. Gu Yun changed the whistle into a strange tune he invented himself, picking a small bright yellow wildflower from the ground and jumping on the horse. My calvary brothers, follow me!

Gu Yun held the wild flower in his hand, wanting to place it on Chang Geng, the person nearest to him. Unexpectedly, his eyes met Chang Gengs the moment he lifted his hand. Chang Gengs gaze had been following him all this time, not separated for even a second, his expression seemed to say: It would be alright even if you placed a red veil* on my head.

*wedding veil for brides

Marshal Gu shivered, not daring to act, he placed the flower on General Tans large helmeted head, explained profoundly the saying a flower inserted on a pile of something.

A group of veteran soldiers in the Northern Camp roared with laughter. The Black Cavalries whistled as they followed Gu Yun. One after another, the whistle of various tunes came and went, Gu Yun shouted angrily at the front, Who allowed you to copy me, Im about to urinate already!

Needless to say, after such a scene, everyone did indeed feel a lot less fatigued.

At this time, on the Westerners sea monster

Master Ja dragged his exhausted body into the cabin door, just in time to meet the head of the Popes guard regiment.

How is it? Asked Master Ja.

Captain of the regiment: He had already woken up and is about to call you in.

In the chaotic naval battle, the place where the Pope was located was grazed by a blown rocket, happening to detonate rows of explosives, the tremendous impact struck him unconscious. His absence had substantial effect in the Western Navy being thoroughly defeated in the clash with Black Iron Camp afterwards.

With great relief, Master Ja strode in. The Popes forehead was already treated with medicine. His white hair scattered on one side, showing a few marks at the corners of his eyes.

Master Ja knelt on the ground, tiredly saying: Your Majesty, I am truly sorry…

The elderly man on the bed did not open his eyes, he only murmured, Gu Yun.

Yes, it was Gu Yun. We had planned to trap him here at first. In fact, we were ready to face him in the Northern Sea, but yesterday the black crows suddenly appeared. Master Ja paused, his expression appearing quite distressed. The Black Iron Camp had been held back by the allied forces at the Western Regions at Jiayu gate. I should have this confidence, but still…

Still lost your steady footing in face of the enemy.

Master Ja could not find a response.

The Pope smiled and said, Everyone will always meet with seemingly invincible enemies in their life. Some are disasters, some are just practice. Do you know what is the difference between disaster and practice?

Master Ja was stunned.

The difference is that disaster cannot be defeated, but practice could be overcome I think it is very easy to distinguish. The communication of the Central Plains has been cut off. Such a small capital, if there truly is many troops, how could it become chaotic so easily when we used tricks to provoke the Northern Camp to rebel.

Master Ja: You mean…

Gu is young in age, but more than half of his life had been spent on the battlefield. Do not let him lead you by the nose. Even if he were to be the most powerful wolf king, at this time, his claws and teeth had all been pulled out and trapped in a prison. Go, you must believe in yourself.

On the same day, the Western Navy reorganized themselves and landed again in Da Gu Harbor.

After landing on the sh.o.r.e, they were being attacked fiercely once again. This time in the clear blue sky and daylight, Master Ja was steady as he calmly commanded. He would soon easily win over all the Heavy Armors which had been using the location to stubbornly struggle .

Unexpectedly, before he could feel proud, as he opened up the iron mask of the captives, he discovered that this wave of ambush were not Great Liangs soldiers, but a group of iron puppets!

The iron puppets were temporarily recruited from the families from the high ranking families and n.o.bilities in the capital. Under a number of protective masks was a mask of a naughty child, with its big white face, showing a large smile resembling a bowl of blood, laughing at the people in front, their mockery were beyond words.

A Western soldier was incredibly angered, as he reached out attempting to s.n.a.t.c.h off the mask, Master Ja exclaimed, Dont touch…

Unfortunately, it was too late. A thin lead was pulled under the mask. With only a gentle touch, the iron puppet exploded, directly bombing several Western soldiers next to it.

The mask flew out, landed at Master Jas feet, continuing to display its mocking smile.

The Northern Camp only feigned an attack. At this time, the entire army had retreated, the Western Navy furiously charged inside the city, ready to use blood to appease their anger. They did not expect to find an empty city.

Since the news of Jiangnans situation arrived in the capital, Yan Bei w.a.n.g had joined hands with the Ministry of Housing and evacuated the citizens in the frontlines in batches, some of whom were unwilling to leave, but after witnessing the scene of artillery fire the night before, they had already rushed to flee.

Gu Yun had given the enemy a completely empty city.

Without the commanders order, the Black Iron Camp dared not retreat for even one step.

Chang Geng took over the report, Gu Yun asked, How many naval troops are left in Jiangnan?

Hard to say, Chang Geng swept across it quickly. Our Dragons had never crossed the sea, let alone fight at sea. Zhao You Fangs death had plunged them into a panic, people were fleeing in all directions. Yifu, do you remember when Wei w.a.n.g rioted?

Gu Yun pinched the bridge of his nose, understanding what he meant.

That year, Wei w.a.n.g bought the Jiangnan Navy commander and half of the naval force. Unexpectedly, Gu Yun and Lin Yuan Pavilion had joined forces together to stir it up before he was ready.

Gu Yun and Lin Yuan Pavilions joint efforts, in fact, that year by Gu Yuns side were a few Black Eagles and young children, Lin Yuan Pavilion was only an organization comprised of thirty people from the pugilist world, including that useless Liao Ran who could put on Heavy Armor but could not take it off.

Gu Yun had great influence in the army from his prestige throughout the years. His sudden appearance that had frightened the rebels who were guilty was one of the reasons, but this also proved that Great Liangs Navy was indeed a crippled leg.

Even a rebellion could not be carried out properly.

If this had happened under the reign of Emperor Yuan He, Gu Yun might have had the opportunity to intervene in the Navy just as he did in rectifying the city defense forces in the Northern Frontier. Unfortunately, Li Feng was not the soft-hearted kind similar to Emperor Yuan He and was indecisive in killing a few people. That kind of thing could never happen in the years of Long An.

Gu Yun: What about Yao Chong Ze? Was he also dead?

Chang Geng: There was no mention, there are too many casualties.

Gu Yun sighed, And what is a sea monster?

Chang Geng: It is said that it resembles a large octopus and can lurk under the water. Its like a mountain when coming out of the surface, covering the sky. Compared with it, the Giant Kite is similar to a pigeon landing on the shoulder of a warrior. It has numerous iron claws on its body, connected to thousands of small Sea Dragons, and when the top opened up, it can release large groups of Eagle armor…

When Chang Geng said this, he paused slightly, his slender fingers lightly rubbing the report: If such a thing exists, at least four or five hundred kilograms of Ziliujin are required to be burned daily.

Gu Yun looked at him, Chang Geng shook his head slightly, he did not say more. The second half of the sentence was hidden the Westerners paid such a heavy price, Im afraid they did not come to fight a prolonged war with us.

Having dealt with the navy in Jiangnan, there is no worries left on the sea, Da Gu Port Navy is not their opponent, the next step is to press directly to the capital, Gu Yun took down the map on the wall, Old Tan, how many troops can be deployed in the capital?

Tan Hong Fei licked his dry and cracked lips: There are two thousand Heavy Armors in the Northern Camp, 16,000 Light Cavalry, and two thousand chariots and hors.e.m.e.n. There are eighty chariots in total with three pairs of baihong on each of them, each with a long and short artillery at the head and tail.

This meager forces were only enough to force the Emperor to abdicate, clashing with the Westerner using all that theyve got acc.u.mulated and planned for many years was much like a pinch of salt in an ocean, Gu Yun frowned: What about the Imperial Army?

The Imperial Army is no good. There are less than 6,000 people in total. More than half of them are the young master type with only appearance, they have never seen blood. Tan Hong Fei paused for a moment then suddenly remembered something. He took an object out of his chest and solemnly held it in both hands and gave it to Gu Yun. Thats right, the Emperor had asked me to bring this to Marshal.

The thing was wrapped in fine palace silk, one would originally a.s.sume it was some kind of precious jewelry, only to find a ferocious-looking Black Iron Tiger emblem inside.

Gu Yun glanced at it then lifted his lips in an unamused smile. What good would it do giving this back to me now? The flower had already withered.

Tan Hong Fei did not know what to say.

Gu Yun casually threw the Black Tiger Emblem to Tan Hong Fei: Alright, since the Emperor has made up his mind, you can go write the orders according to his wishes. Summon the local garrisons in Zhili, Shandong Province to return for defense, aid the difficulties in the capital, let Cai Fen divide his force to lead the reinforcement… Well, just summon them for now, if they do not come then we will think of something later.

Tan Hong Fei: …

On the other hand, Zhang Feng Han at their side was already of old age and frail, he could not be so stone-hearted as these animals at the same table. He had been frightened from the start until now, as he suddenly heard Gu Yuns implication, the Old Ling Shu immediately turned pale, he could not refrain from asking: Does Marshal mean…It is possible that the Qin w.a.n.g army wont be able to arrive?

Chang Geng answered, If the information in the battle report is correct, the Westerners cant carry too much supply with them they cant afford to fight either. If they want to deliver a fatal strike, coming from Jiangnan, they must divide their forces into two ways. They will press on to the capital from the sea route, cut off the pa.s.sageway from the capital to the four sides and besiege us… Im afraid the summoning order will not be able to pa.s.s to the outside anymore.

Master Feng Han almost fainted on the spot, he fell down on the chair, breathing heavily.

Chang Geng did not expect such a strong reaction from him. He immediately poured a cup of water and brought it in front of Master Feng Han. He skillfully patted several acupoint at his back and said, Please stay calm. Older people should try not to be overly joyful or overly sorrowful, otherwise it will easily lead to a stroke…

Zhang Feng Han grabbed his hand and almost burst into tears: My Royal Highness, do you not know what anxiousness is?

Master Feng Han rest a.s.sured, I havent finished yet, Chang Geng hurriedly said: When yifu was imprisoned, fearing that there might be changes at the border, I had already contacted some friends.

As he said this, he took a wooden bird out of his sleeve.

This kind of wooden bird needs a special kind of magnet to lead the way, which can be used to communicate with other people who held magnets. They had received my letters and should have already departed for the major garrisons separately, I hope they will arrive in time.

If the capital city truly fall under siege, I can use wooden birds to communicate this information to them and let them spread the news on our behalf. With the Black Tiger Emblem and my yifus private seal, it should be enough to gain trust.

When Chang Geng realized that the long communication between different places would delay the war news, thus he had began to make use of Lin Yuan Pavilion to set up a ma.s.sive communication network ready for the near future.

Tan Hong Fei and Zhang Feng Han stared at Chang Geng with their mouths agape.

Its only a small trick. Under such urgency, I cant think of any other way Chang Geng said, It can be used for emergencies at the present when it is still unknown to the enemy, but it cannot continue on in the long run. Once the enemy is aware of it, it will no longer be safe. Any small stone can easily shoot it down.

Gu Yun could not describe how he was feeling for a moment. When he was in prison, it was not as if he wasnt worried about Chang Geng. But at the present, it seemed that even if it was he himself who managed it at that time, it couldnt be said for certain that he could do a better job than Chang Geng.

Not only did we keep half of the Black Iron Camp, but we also kept such a move.

While he was grateful and touched, he also felt that the teenager who would only shut his eyes and retreat in front of the sword training puppet that year should not have grown up so quickly, this was all because he did not take good care of him.

But in front of outsiders, Gu Yun could not express any emotion, he only said lightly: Your Highness arranged everything very well.

Let us go, Old Tan, follow me to the northern camp. Gu Yun took off the wine bottle hanging behind the door and looked at the sky. He did not even wear his armor. He picked up a coat and strode away.

Chang Geng also stood up: Yifu, go on ahead first, I will return to Ling Shu Inst.i.tute with Master Feng Han to calculate and escort the supply to you.

The temporary warmth and ambiguous caring had disappeared. The two went on their separate ways, leaving in a hurry.

Gu Yun was right in taking only a coat. Just halfway down the road, the continuous thunder on the horizon suddenly transformed into a lightning as bright as snow, flashing in the air, splitting across the gloomy sky, a rare heavy rain splashing down.

Water strongly pouring, wind and rain covered the way.

Gu Yun and Tan Hong Fei took with them a group of guards and hurried out of the city heading towards the northern camp. Tan Hong Fei was gasping for breath due to the rain. He strongly wiped away the droplets on his face, remembered that back at the manor when he was requesting for an audience, Huo Dan had told him the Marquis was ill. He could not help but usher his horse over to Gu Yun and shouted, The rain is too heavy, Marshal, you still have a cold. We should better find a place to hide and wait for the rain to stop…

Gu Yun shouted: Look at the cloud, who knows what day or year it would stop, dont talk nonsense!

Perhaps this heavy rain came too suddenly and out of nowhere. Gu Yun had an ominous feeling in his heart.

The Black Iron Camp was called the black crow by the foreigners. As the head of the black crow, Gu Yun indeed has an unprecedented crows mouth. Almost all of his forebodings would come true without fail.

Gu Yun quickly took over the chaotic northern camp, at the same time, Chang Geng had escorted over the armors and machines that Ling Shu Inst.i.tute had acc.u.mulated by sc.r.a.pping all that they have left. Among them, there were a number of Black Eagle suits and Heavy Armors.

Tan Hong Fei estimated that the Westerners would go north in two or three days in reality, he had been too optimistic.

That night, on a watchtower in Da Gu Harbor.

In front of the Qian Li Yan were two dust-proof brushes as large as a palm, struggling to move up and down in vain. Not long after, the wind and rain had beaten them down.

The old tower soldier on duty had to put his hand out the window and grab a rusty handle nearby where the fire engine had been busted for a long time, but no one had repaired it, thus it had to be pulled manually.

He shook away the rain droplets on his hands and strongly twisted the handle, the half-dead gears that had cracked and chipped made a screeching sound. A metal umbrella rose slowly and unfolded, covering the front mirror of the Qian Li Yan in the miserable wind and bitter rain.

The old soldier wiped the water vapor on the gla.s.ses of the Qian Li Yan and complained to his companions: We are all serving as soldiers, but the other people can fly high in heaven, conquering the wind and clouds, mighty as h.e.l.l. We are just the opposite, every day on the tower, if it was not sweeping the floor then it was playing cards. Its even more peaceful compared to the monks.

Cant even get our hands on some benefits, all throughout the day there is not a G.o.dd.a.m.n thing to do, but we also had to spent time here all the year round. Even the wives would forget our faces already … hey, how strange, why is it raining so hard? Where did this ma.s.sive grievance came from?

His companion that was sweeping the floor did not even raise his head: You better pray nothing would happen, Didnt you hear? Captain said that the Westerners are about to get here already, youll have something to do then.

Dont listen to the Captains gibberish. Doesnt he always go on about how the Westerners would arrive in a few days? The guard said, Isnt the Marquis of Order still keeping guard right next to the capital?

The Marquis has been put into prison.

Gee, didnt he get released already?… As the old soldier said this, as if he had remembered something, he said again: Yes, it is very strange. Arent there rumors about how the Marquis led forces to the capital to force the Emperor to abdicate? How could he be released so quickly, perhaps…

Shh, his companion suddenly raised his head abruptly. Stop talking nonsense, listen!

A thunder-like rumble came faintly from the wind, the watchtower seemed to sense something and started to tremble.

Thunder?

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No, thunder rang out one after another, how could it drag on continuously like this?

The old soldier ran to the Qian Li Yan and quickly pushed the lens upwards. The moment his gaze pa.s.sed through the dark curtain of rain, he suddenly caught sight of a huge shadow out at sea.

A monster such as this one does not exist even in nightmares, with its claws flying up to the sky, growling loudly and angrily and in a low voice.

The soldier thought there was problem with his eyes, rubbing them hard then taking another look, only to find that the sea monster was moving like a flying shadow. In the blink of an eye, he could not tell how much it had advanced, but it was already near enough to see clearly from the Qian Li Yan.

The Black Sea Dragons swooped in fiercely in the dark night. Battle flags flew in the wind and rain resembling an ominous beacon, their shadows covered the vast ocean.

Enemy attack… The old soldier struggled to open his mouth.

What?

The old soldier suddenly turned back and roared, Enemy attack! The Westerners are coming, ring the bells and beat the drum! What are you are standing there for, go quickly

The sound of drums penetrated through the rainstorm, the light on the watchtower that was originally turning slowly suddenly accelerated and began to whirl wildly, one alerting ten, ten alerting a hundred. In a few breathing intervals, all the watchtowers in Da Gu Harbor had sounded their drums.

Lian Wei, the commander of the Northern Sea Navy, had never once dared to close his eyes to rest since the day he received the news of the defeat in the Southern Sea. Right now his heart was beating like mad inside his chest. He grabbed the Qian Li Yan in the hands of his guard.

After only one look, he was forced to cry out, My G.o.ds, from his chest to his back, all had turned chill.

General, what should we do?

All… Lian Weis throat moved. Large Dragons go ahead, no need to say h.e.l.lo, fire the Heavy Artillery instantly… Wait, put on the metal chain, thats right, all Dragons go side by side! Form a fence of metal chain outside the port!

Set up the baihong

Notify the fishing and merchant ships in the port to evacuate immediately!

Lian Wei looked down at the Feng Huo* Order on his table that had not yet been put away it was the highest level of warfare warning in Great Liang. Once the Feng Huo Order was received, it indicated that the whole territory will enter a ready state for war at any moment.

*, lit. beacon fire

On the Feng Huo Order was a letter Gu, signed by the Marquis of Order himself.

That year, when the Black Iron Camp was attacked in the Northern Frontier, more than ten generals big and small had to take off their Black Armor, lay down their Wind Slasher, was scattered all over the country, some retired, some hid away.

Lian Wei had thought that he would be trapped here in a small harbor all his life, every day idly taking people around the port for patrol. Sometimes, he would interfere with trivial matters such as fishermen gathering to gamble and fight.

Even when he was shocked to hear about how the northern camp had raised up because of what happened that year, he did not have the courage to stand up like Tan Hong Fei to demand justice.

Notify the northern camp, Lian Wei tightened his armor, took a deep breath and pulled back his bulging stomach. Notify the Marquis of Order, Da Gu Harbor was attacked by the Western Navy, hurry!

As Lian Wei stepped out, he remembered something. He turned back to pick up the Wind Slasher which had been standing in the corner covered in dust for many years. He lightly caressed it, then carried it on his back.

The Wind Slasher slaying through golden sand in the past had rusted so much that even the small component for storing Ziliujin could no longer be opened. It has become a heavy black iron rod, there were no other use aside for robbing the road in the middle of the night.

However, when he carried it on his back again, he suddenly recovered the feeling that the Black Armor was on his body and looked at himself like no other.

Years of sinking away, yet the snow blade and steel armor branded into his bone and blood still never once faded.

The large Dragonss iron fence and the sea monster are confronted with each other, directly clashing face to face. The Western warships resembled demons and ghosts in the midst of wind and rain. The fierce gale at sea could not hold them back. The crazy wind and waves set off a tide that seemed to engulf the mainland, artillery fires rained down continuously. Countless warships disintegrated in the blink of an eye, sinking into the billowing ocean.

General, Im afraid the iron fence wont be able to stop them!

General, too much ships had sunk on the left side, the chain…

Watchtower be careful!

A cannon artillery surged over like a flaming dragon, even the curtain of rain could not suppress its blazing fire, hitting a watchtower with a loud explosive sound. The tower staggered, slowly collapsing from the middle.

The light that pierced through the wind and rain on the top of the tower went out.

Lian Wei pushed his guards aside and boarded the deck of the warship. He roared, Do not stop the Heavy Cannons, load the explosive on the baihong bow!

General Lian, Da Gu Port is impossible…

Move! Lian Wei pushed the small soldiers near the Baihong arrow aside, he shouted and lifted the rocket of more or less one hundred pounds, smashed it on the enormous Baihong bow. He wiped away the rain water on his face and calibrated the bow with his hands.

The first rocket was blown into the sky by the Baihong bow. In the air, the iron sh.e.l.l at the tail of the rocket fell away. The glint of Ziliujin resembling an impenetrable flaming torch, boosting the speed of the rocket, pa.s.sing by like a meteor, grazing the flag of the sea monster and falling into the water nearby.

The flying banner of the Holy See was torn into a piece of cloth by the tremendous impact, dispersed in the wind, but the momentum of the rocket did not stop, hitting directly at a Western sea monster currently wreaking havoc, exploding into bright fireworks on the ocean.

Without the commanders order, the Black Iron Camp dared not retreat for even one step.

When the news of the attack on Da Gu Harbor arrived that night, Gu Yun was going through the capital defense with Tan Hong Fei and Han Qi commander of the Imperial Army for the final time.

Hearing this news, Han Qi almost jumped up from his seat, he shouted. How could it be so fast!

Gu Yuns expression darkened: Who is the commander of the Northern Sea Navy?

Lian Wei, Tan Hong Fei added a moment later, the rims of his eyes reddened, He was a deputy of mine that year.

Gu Yuns eyes twitched slightly: Commander Han.

Han Qi understood his intention, Yes, this general will return to the capital immediately. You can rest a.s.sured, even if the Imperial Army only had the young master type of soldier, the only burial place for us is at the foot of the imperial capital!

Gu Yun took a deep look at him and suddenly opened the tent: Can those old men in Ling Shu Inst.i.tute hurry up?

Before his words were even finished, a messenger came up and said, Grand Marshal, Yan Bei w.a.n.g had arrived!

Gu Yun turned around, Chang Gengs horse had already came up front, he pulled the reins: Marshal, Ling Shu Inst.i.tute has repaired the existing black iron armors, 1000 Heavy Armors, 500 Eagle armors, split the Light Armor suits into pieces, three thousand pairs of wrist buckles, four thousand pairs of iron leg guards. Another batch of four thousand pairs of shoulder guards will be sent over later.