NOVEL SIMPLE Chapter 324-330
Chapter 324: Voice from hell
…
There were a few men in black who ran to the Intellectual Loft as news of the court examination results spread throughout the city.
They ran straight to the roof of the Intellectual Loft.
In one of the antiquated rooms within, a lady in a black dress sat behind a study table holding a letter in her hand.
This table was completely empty, a far cry from what it was the previous evening.
“Master!” Before long, a voice could be heard at the door. Then, a servant in a black dress entered.
“What is it?” The lady in black asked flatly.
“Master, Young Master Fang and Nangong Hao are tied for first!” The servant bowed and replied.
“Tied for first?” The lady in black was visibly surprised.
“Yes, the news is currently being spread throughout the city and to the surrounding villages.” The servant confirmed.
The lady in black nodded as she looked out the window. Her eyes glimmered. “Never did I expect that this shameless fellow could draw with Nangong Hao! It’s a draw… did the rules of the court examinations change for him?”
“Master, what do we do now?”
“We follow our original plan.”
“But… Master, the Intellectual Loft represents decades of hard work by the owner. Furthermore, it is the information source for the entire capital, are we really going to…” The servant in black stopped herself in her tracks.
“Are you questioning my decision?” The lady in black frowned as she looked at the servant.
“I do not dare!” The servant fell to her knees without a second word.
“I want all our operatives out of the city within 15 minutes.”
“Yes!”
…
A light autumn breeze blew through the city. The atmosphere around the Imperial Decree Hall was tense.
Emperor Lin Mubai looked at all of the candidates, rage building in his eyes. An intimidating aura emanated from his body once again.
“Where is Fang Zhengzhi?!”
“Your highness, I heard that Official Fang was at the district of fireworks last night. I heard that he spent the night with the top girl in the Intellectual Loft. I am afraid…” An official stepped out.
“What is it?” Emperor Lin Mubai’s gaze turned icy.
“I’m afraid he hasn’t woken up.”
“Rubbish!”
“I do not think that Fang Zhengzhi is still asleep. In fact, I think that Fang Zhengzhi has left the Intellectual Loft!” An icy voice rang out.
Then, a figure walked out from the crowd.
He wore an elegant robe and held a fan in his hand.
“Yan Xiu?!”
All of the candidates recognized the person instantly.
Everyone held their breath when the Emperor raged. However, Yan Xiu still decided to step forward.
Because, he was Yan Xiu.
“Young Master Yan, we know that you are friends with Fang Zhengzhi. However, that does not mean that you can protect him and speak rubbish!” The officials were slightly shocked to see Yan Xiu step forward.
All of the other officials also shook their head lightly when they saw Yan Xiu.
“I believe that Fang Zhengzhi is not someone who will be late.” Yan Xiu was unaffected by the looks he got from the other officials.
“Haha… Young Master Yan, we would have bought any other reason. But saying that Fang Zhengzhi is never late? Will we believe it?”
“Exactly. We know that you are helping him. However, this is not the first time Fang Zhengzhi has been late.”
“Has Young Master Yan forgot about the incident in the throne room?”
All of the officials chuckled when they heard this. Fang Zhengzhi is never late? Despite being ordered to meet the Emperor after coming out of the World of the Sage, Fang Zhengzhi made them wait for a whole hour, claiming that he was still eating.
That was something none of the officials forgot.
“Young Master Yan, do you have any evidence to show that Fang Zhengzhi is not in the Intellectual Loft?” The Minister of Rites stepped forward.
Fang Zhengzhi had antagonized him during the hunting and racing competition.
Of course, this was not the reason why he risked stepping out today. He did so because he knew Fang Zhengzhi had a token.
That token was for Fang Zhengzhi to go to the Ministry of Rites.
He had no idea why the Emperor made such an arrangement…
However, he knew that if Fang Zhengzhi really entered the Ministry of Rites, there would be no way of predicting what would happen.
“I do not!” Yan Xiu shook his head.
“Since you don’t have any evidence, isn’t it inappropriate for you to step out this way? Even though you are from a noble family, you are not an official yet.” The Minister of Rites nodded.
Yan Xiu was silent. He knew that his actions were inappropriate. In fact, he could be charged for this.
But could he not step forward?
He couldn’t.
He decided to step forward, regardless of the consequences.
“It’s okay!” Emperor Lin Mubai waved his hand when he saw Yan Xiu fal silent. “Yan Xiu knows Fang Zhengzhi well. I am not surprised that he’s stepped forward today.”
“The Emperor is merciful!” The Minister of Rites replied respectfully. Then, he turned to Yan Xiu. “Young Master Yan, you should not take advantage of the Emperor’s kindness. I invite you to step back into position.”
Yan Xiu looked at the Minister of Rites, then back at Emperor Lin Mubai. He tightened his grip on the fan, a flash of determination in his eyes.
“I would like to request for permission to go look for Fang Zhengzhi. I am sure something has happened to him!”
All of the officials were stunned. They never expected Yan Xiu to forget the big picture just because of Fang Zhengzhi.
“Young Master Yan, you may be of noble origin, but you must remember your status here! You are a candidate!”
“Let the Emperor settle the issue. Young Master Yan, you should just concern yourself with your own affairs.”
“Young Master Yan, get back in line!”
All of the officials began to advise Yan Xiu. They did not want to see someone with such a bright future ruin himself in a moment of folly.
The Emperor was already furious. He only pardoned Yan Xiu because of his noble blood. To push his luck was unwise.
“I also do not think that Fang Zhengzhi would be absent without reason!” At this moment, another voice rang out. This voice was extremely close to the officials.
All of their gazes froze.
They turned to look at the figure at the entrance to the Imperial Decree Hall.
The figure was in a white shirt, hi expression calm.
This was Nangong Hao, the top of the court theory examination. He was neither an official nor of noble blood. Yet, when he spoke, all of the officials fell silent.
The reason why…
Was because they had no idea why Nangong Hao would say this.
For Yan Xiu to speak up for Fang Zhengzhi was expected. However, Nangong Hao’s reaction was inexplicable. Why? Aren’t they rivals?”
“Imperial Ranger Squad” Emperor Lin Mubai frowned as he glanced at Yan Xiu and Nangong Hao.
“Here!”
“Go to the Intellectual Loft… bring Fang Zhengzhi back!”
“Yes!”
The reply was swift. Five of them shot out of the palace gates like rays of golden light.
Yan Xiu looked at the Imperial Ranger Squad.
He wanted to say something but he could not bring himself to speak. He bowed to the Emperor and prepared to return to his spot.
“You do not need to return. Come forward.” Emperor Lin Mubai’s expression became rather warm as he beckoned Yan Xiu forward.
“Come forward?”
“What was the Emperor trying to do?”
“Isn’t this the announcement of results? Could it be…”
All of the officials were stunned when they heard the Emperor. Then, they thought of only one possibility.
Then…
The officials looked at the Minister of Rites awkwardly.
They had guessed what was about to happen. If Yan Xiu was just of noble blood, it would have been nothing.
However, if Yan Xiu was in the top three of the court examinations.
His status would be completely different.
All of the other candidates were also confused when they heard the Emperor. Did Yan Xiu make it into the top three?
How is this possible?!
Yan Xiu didn’t meet with the Emperor either!
“Ranked third, Yan Xiu!” Emperor Lin Mubai smiled affectionately as he looked at Yan Xiu.
“It really is Yan Xiu?!”
“Yan Xiu is ranked third in the court examination!”
“Incredible! How did three people who didn’t meet with the Emperor top the examinations?”
All of the candidates were stunned. They were shocked that Nangong Hao, Fang Zhengzhi, and Yan Xiu all did not meet with the Emperor.
Now that the results were released, this was a surprise within a surprise.
This was completely unexpected!
Wu Feng paled… Yan Xiu was third?!
Wu Feng was more affected by this news than Nangong Hao and Fang Zhengzhi stealing his top spot.
When he was already reading, Yan Xiu was still a baby who only knew how to cry.
When he was easily breaking small trees with his hand, Yan Xiu was still enviously looking at him whilst sitting on a stone stool.
Being able to become a disciple of one of the four sages was something that he prided himself on. Furthermore, he would always ask Yan Xiu, “Young Master Yan, what did you learn from this book?”
“Young Master Yan, how is your progress? Did you breakthrough? Do you need me to guide you along?”
“Young Master Yan, you cannot force a breakthrough. You must ensure your foundation is good!”
More than a decade had past.
That infant, that child that he once mocked and teased… that kid was now better than him. In fact, that kid had mercilessly defeated him.
How could this happen?!
He didn’t meet with the Emperor!
No way!
Wu Feng could no believe his ears.
However, Yan Xiu was already by his side. He bowed deeply, “Thank you your highness!”
“Ranked third, Yan Xiu!”
“Ranked third, Yan Xiu!”
“Ranked third…”
Voices reverberated throughout the entire palace as Yan Xiu stepped forward to say his thanks. Then, golden armored guards began spreading the news throughout the city.
The entire capital was in uproar.
“Yan Xiu is third?”
“Yan Xiu is only 16 years old this year!”
“How powerful!”
Just as the capital was engulfed by the news, there was a spark in the firework district.
Before long, columns of flame shot skyward. It stained the entire sky red.
…
At the entrance of the Imperial Decree Hall, Emperor Lin Mubai looked at Yan Xiu satisfactorily. Even though Yan Xiu was a little rash…
This did not affect his liking for Yan Xiu.
However, at this moment, a ray of golden light shot towards him. The moment he reached the entrance to the Imperial Decree Hall, he fell to his knees.
“Your highness, there was a fire at the Intellectual Loft, the entire place has been burnt to ashes!”
“…”
“What?! There was a fire at the Intellectual Loft?!”
“How did that happen?!”
“How is that possible? The Intellectual Loft has never caught fire in its decades of existence!”
All of the officials were in disbelief when they heard this. More importantly, it was all too coincidental.
Emperor Lin Mubai’s expression changed. He blamed Fang Zhengzhi for being audacious, for disrespecting him by being absent. However, he never wanted to execute Fang Zhengzhi.
If he did, he would have used ‘catch’ instead of ‘bring’ when he gave the order!
“There was a fire in the Intellectual Loft… it has been burnt to ashes!” Emperor Lin Mubai frowned. Things were not as simple as they looked.
All of the other candidates were also shocked. The Intellectual Loft was one of their favorite hangouts. For it to have been burnt down…
What a pity…
However, Yan Xiu’s shock was completely different. He paled, his grip on his Mountain and River, Heaven and Earth Fan tightening.
“Ah!” A deep, icy, hellish voice rang out throughout the Imperial Decree Hall.
Chapter 325: Evil Asura
Then, there was a column of bright red light at the entrance to the Imperial Decree Hall. It was bright as blood, a strange aura circling around it.
“Yan Xiu!”
“Young Master Yan, what are you doing? This is the Imperial Decree Hall!”
“This is the resting place of all the past Emperors of the Great Xia Dynasty, don’t be rash!”
All of the officials were completely taken aback by this voice. All of their gazes focused on Yan Xiu.
Yan Xiu’s eyes glowed red, his entire body surrounded by a red aura. There were two bright red whirlpools beneath his feet as well.
“Dao of Asura!”
“He has managed to progress so much in the past few days?!”
“That Dao of Asura combines good and evil. Even though it is a good Dao, it stems from rage. Yan Xiu must have been triggered by Fang Zhengzhi’s death. He managed to progress as a result, but…”
“But what?”
“Yan Xiu has too little experience with the Dao of Asura. If he did not have a good foundation, then he may become controlled by the Dao of Asura. Then, the Evil Asura would take over… that would be unfortunate!”
“He is a rare talent! He managed to understand and wield the Dao of Asura at 16! We can’t let him ruin himself like that, we must help him!”
All of the officials were worried when they looked at Yan Xiu.
All of the other talents were also shocked when they saw this.
“Is this the Dao of Asura?”
“16 years old… top three in the court theory examinations… able to wield the Dao of Asura… how ridiculous!”
“I think even if three of us go up against him, we would not be his match…”
“Powerful indeed.”
Wu Feng’s expression turned extremely ugly when he saw this. He was standing right next to Yan Xiu and could feel the power Yan Xiu was exuding.
The aura felt like it had come straight out of hell. It was icy and sharp. He had no other choice but to retreat to the side.
“Yan Xiu!”
All of the other talents ranked fifth to tenth also retreated together with Wu Feng.
Only one person did not retreat.
Nangong Hao.
Nangong Hao was also beside Yan Xiu. In fact, he was closer to Yan Xiu than Wu Feng was. However, he allowed the red aura to continue swirling around him.
His white shirt flapped in the wind.
However, Nangong Hao’s expression was not calm. In fact, there were glimmers of excitement in his eyes.
“Yan Xiu?”
Emperor Lin Mubai waved his hand lightly.
A ray of golden light immediately shot into Yan Xiu’s forehead. In that instant, the redness disappeared from Yan Xiu’s eyes, the aura around him dissipating.
“Nobleman Yan. If you are truly concerned, you can come with me to the Intellectual Loft!”
Yan Xiu’s body shivered slightly, the remaining aura absorbed by his body. He looked at Emperor Lin Mubai and the surrounding officials and candidates.
He nodded.
“Your highness, according to the rules, after the results are released, we should announce the rules for the combat examination… Do you want to go to the Intellectual Loft now?” The Minister of Rites asked when he saw Yan Xiu nod.
“Rules are dead, but we can be flexible. I will go to the Intellectual Loft first.”
“Yes!”
…
The Intellectual Loft had been in operation for many decades. It had become quite the landmark in the capital. Countless talents had many unforgettable memories here.
Apart from the memories forged here, it contained the writing of many talents. That knowledge and art was the true value of the loft.
Now, all of that was nothing more than a pile of ashes.
All that was left of the once exquisite Intellectual Loft were a few tattered stone pillars. All of the wood was burnt to a cinder.
Other than that, there were many charred bodies in the ashes. It was impossible to tell their identities. Most of them were ladies, but there were a few males as well.
Countless guards and soldiers surrounded the remains. They held their spears in their hands, preventing the public from entering.
In the middle of the guards.
Emperor Lin Mubai stood in the middle of the wreckage, his expression solemn. He kept looking at the rubble.
All of the officials stood behind Emperor Lin Mubai. They stared at what remained of one of the most popular places in the entire capital.
“How did this happen?”
“It would be impossible to rebuild.”
“Aish… what a pity.”
All of the officials sighed as they looked at the rubble in front of them. Many of them frequented this place.
“Father!” At this moment, a figure in bright red rushed over. She immediately went through the guards at the perimeter and appeared next to the Emperor.
“Ping Yang is here.” Emperor Lin Mubai nodded as he ruffled her hair.
“Where is Fang Zhengzhi? Where did he go?” Ping Yang asked anxiously as she stared at Emperor Lin Mubai with clear blue eyes.
Emperor Lin Mubai did not reply.
Yan Xiu’s expression was similar. It was icy, incredibly icy, almost as if it was covered by aeons of snow and ice.
Before long, a golden armored guard appeared in front of Emperor Lin Mubai.
“Your highness, we found a total of 36 bodies. Everyone one was charred beyond recognition. We were able to determine their gender, but there is no way of knowing their identities.”
“We can’t identify them? What about the cause of the fire?” Emperor Lin Mubai frowned.
“We were only able to determine that the fire originated from within. This was not a fire set from the outside.” The golden armored guard surmised.
“Okay, you may take your leave.”
“Yes, your highness!” The golden armored guard disappeared from view.
“Father, I heard that Fang Zhengzhi was absent today. Is it true?” Ping Yang asked as she watch the golden armored guard disappear.
“Yes, he was absent.” Emperor Lin Mubai nodded.
“That’s impossible… he would never be audacious enough to absent himself… Yan Xiu, is Fang Zhengzhi still sleeping in the hotel? Answer me! Yan Xiu, why aren’t you speaking?”
“Get someone here!”
“Yes your highness!”
“I have an order for you. I want you to search every household in the capital for Fang Zhengzhi. You will not stop until you have found him!”
“About… yes your highness!”
…
The air was cold and drizzling. The raindrops pattered on the streets of the capital.
A few figures walked the streets. They were either holding umbrellas or wearing jackets. Pedestrians tried to find shelter in shops or restaurants.
Everyone was discussing the fate of one man.
That man was Fang Zhengzhi.
It was a great honor to top the theory examination and tie with Nangong Hao. However, he had died in a sea of fire.
King Duan’s residence was much more lively than it had been for the past few days.
Inside the library, King Duan was dressed exquisitely. He smirked as he sipped some superior tea.
“I only drank the tea previously because it was good. However, today, it tastes extraordinary!”
“The tea tastes much better because you’re particularly happy today.” One of the officials commented.
“You are all too superficial. I am not just happy about what you are thinking. I am happy because the Emperor has ordered for the military exercise to be held at the Southern Mountain Range! And the Crown Prince will be the one supervising it!”
“Congratulations my lord, congratulations!”
“I would like to see how the Crown Prince will pull this one off! Hahaha…”
…
The Crown Prince’s residence was also equally lively. There were even more officials there. They all had a pot of plants of various species for the Crown Prince.
Countless officials were in the Crown Prince’s meeting room.
Left Prime MInister Yu Yiping stood right in front. He was calm as he squinted, a glint in his eyes.
“Crown Prince, you have been tasked to lead the army this time. You can use this opportunity to get control of the army!”
“It is not appropriate. There are many in the army who are loyal to King Duan. Any attempt to control the army now may result in rebellion. Furthermore, whether the Crown Prince is in control of the army or not has little impact in the grand scheme of things.”
“Official Liu is correct. However, this is a golden opportunity that we should not miss. I think that the Crown Prince can try to turn some of those officers and make them loyal to you!”
“Official Wang is right!”
Just as the discussions were heating up, a figure walked in through the door.
“Do you think that King Duan did not think of all the things you have discussed? I am sure that King Duan has already made arrangements. Your highness, you may be in danger during this expedition!” The figure’s voice rang out.
He was in black official robes. He was Su Qing.
“Danger? Su Qing, what do you mean by that? Are you saying that King Duan will make an attempt on the Crown Prince’s life?”
“Official Wang, this is a battle for the position of the highest in the land. Do you think that the fact that the Crown Prince’s brother will stop him?” Su Qing replied expressionlessly.
“Then… based on what you just said, should the expedition to the Southern Mountain Range continue?”
“Of course. However, the Crown Prince must prepare in advance for this expedition. Else, any problems could result in catastrophic consequences.”
“Official Su, what do you suggest?” Crown Prince Lin Tianrong put down the pot of flowers in his hand as he turned.
“Make concessions for future gains!”
…
There were figures dashing about on the streets of the capital even whilst the residences of King Duan and the Crown Prince were packed with people.
They were as quick as phantoms.
Inside Ping Yang’s residence, a sharp screech could be heard. A snow white, eagle-like bird shot into the sky. It flew through the rain and into the distance.
Inside a hotel in the capital, Yan Xiu stood by the window, watching the rain fall onto the streets below.
“Young Master, everyone has been sent out and the letter to Western Liang is on its way. However, the return trip would take at least 10 days.”
“Mm.” Yan Xiu nodded.
“Young Master… the combat examinations begin in five days.”
“I know.”
“Young Master… Master had said that you are to finish the examination regardless of what happens.”
“I will, rest assured.”
“Young Master…”
“Uncle Tie, I want to watch the rain alone.”
“I will take my leave!”
…
The rain in the capital was not heavy but it lasted for a long time. It rained non stop for five days, causing ponding in the streets of the capital.
Everyone waited in anticipation for the combat examinations to start.
However, everyone was concerned about the absence of one man. This person had vanished into thin air ever since the Intellectual Loft was burnt down.
The army stood in the rain at the gates to the capital. They were all dressed in black armor. They remained disciplined and still despite the onslaught of the rain.
They formed a rectangle on the plain.
The army comprised 29 small rectangular units and one large rectangular unit
The small rectangles were formed by 2000 soldiers. Each one was led by an officer on a horse.
They were the top 30 candidates from the court examination.
Of course, only 29 of them arrived today. One was missing.
Each of them led an army of 2000. Behind them was an army of 42,000.
Emperor Lin Mubai looked on at the soldiers and candidates in the rain, his expression solemn.
“Your highness, it is almost time!” Eunuch Wei whispered a reminder.
“Mm…” Emperor Lin Mubai nodded, then looked at the darkening sky. He murmured to himself, “What an audacious fellow. He is still absent?”
“Are you thinking of Official Fang?”
“Yes, I don’t think that he will die that easily. He did not die in the World of the Sage. He did not die despite the dangers in the Vast World. Yet, he died in the Intellectual Loft?”
Chapter 326: A kiss must be on the lips.
“I also do not think that Official Fang is dead.” Eunuch Wei whispered.
Emperor Lin Mubai frowned slightly but did not say anything else. He tapped his fingers on the arm rest before standing up.
“The location for the combat examination will be the Southern Mountain Village. I have discussed this with their king. The main aim is to share tactics and improve our ability to cooperate in battle!”
“I have sent an army of 100,000!”
“I have a few requests. One, do not disturb the residents. Two, do not engage in mass destruction. Three, do not kill without reason!”
Emperor Lin Mubai paused when he reached this point.
“Yes, your highness!” All of the 29 candidates at the bottom of the wall replied in unison.
“The rules of the examination are simple. The Southern Mountain Range is the location. You can set up camp in any of the four territories – Yan Ya region, Shi Zun region, Thunderous Lion region, and the Icy Monkey Region. These are the four war zones. The results will be determined by your final strength and territories controlled.
“Do you understand?”
“Yes your highness!”
“Set off!”
“Woo…” A long drone could be heard. The 100,000 strong army turned in its spot as it marched into the distance.
On the walls of the city, the Ninth Prince watched as the army marched off into the distance. He sighed, “He still did not appear. This way, he has effectively missed the combat examinations. Even if he rushes back, it will not matter. Ping Yang, what do you… wait? Where is Ping Yang?”
…
The incident at the Intellectual Loft consumed the entire city. Everyone wanted to know what happened to Fang Zhengzhi?
Was he dead or alive?!
The discussions leaned towards ‘death’ after the start of the combat examinations.
The 100,000 strong army had already set off. This meant that Fang Zhengzhi had already missed the combat examinations. He did not have the token from the army and could not move any soldiers.
Without soldiers, how was he going to battle the other candidates?
How was he going to guard his territories?
Fang Zhengzhi was the top of the theory examination. By missing out on the combat examinations, he was effectively giving this golden opportunity away. Only a fool would do such a thing.
There was only one reason why Fang Zhengzhi would miss the combat examination.
Something bad happened to him.
Was he dead?
…
Obviously, Fang Zhengzhi had not died. On the contrary, he was living a good life now. He was in a orchard filled with fruits of all variety…
They were all sweet and juicy.
He even had a servant.
When he wanted to listen to music, Immortal Tune would appear in front of him. Guqin, drums, whatever Fang Zhengzhi wanted to listen to.
It was the life of the gods.
But…
He couldn’t get out!
Fang Zhengzhi looked out across the vast orchard. There was an exquisite residence by the side of a creek. He was enjoying life, Immortal Tune playing music for him whilst he admired the scenery.
Today, Immortal Tune wore a green dress as she sat in the grass. She looked just like an immortal sprite.
“I really failed?”
“Yes, your name was not in the top 10, neither was it in the subsequent list. I think you didn’t make the top 30. According to the rules of the court examination, you failed!” Immortal Tune nodded.
“Okay then… your master said she would meet me in five days. Hasn’t it been five days?” Fang Zhengzhi nodded and shook his leg as he raised it on the table.
“My master is rather busy these few days. Perhaps you could wait another couple of days?” Immortal Tune chuckled when she saw Fang Zhengzhi’s uncouth action.
This was not because of Fang Zhengzhi’s relationship with her master.
It was because she knew for a fact that Fang Zhengzhi had tied with Nangong Hao for joint first in the court theory examination.
No matter how uncouth he seemed, he was an educated man.
One’s actions did not determine if one was elegant or educated. The heart was what differentiated the good from the bad.
“Busy?” Fang Zhengzhi looked at Immortal Tune doubtfully.
“Yes.” Immortal Tune nodded solemnly.
“What is the name of your master?”
“You will know when you meet the master.”
“Oh I see… Wu Yuer, you old hag! Get out here! Do you expect me to put a red carpet out here for you? Or are you too old to show your face in public?” Fang Zhengzhi nodded, then yelled.
“Bloody hell! Fang Zhengzhi, how dare you scold me?” A crisp voice rang out in the sky. Then, a figure in black appeared in front of Fang Zhengzhi.
She wore a black dress and leather shoes with golden embroidery. She had a black beaded hair and which glowed in the light.
Her skin was snow white and there was a red dot in the middle of her forehead. She was breathtakingly beautiful.
She was born with such great features.
“Master!” Immortal Tune fell to her knees when she saw Wu Yuer.
“Mm, you can take your leave now.” Wu Yuer nodded to Immortal Tune.
“Yes master.” Immortal Tune left.
After watching Immortal Tune disappear into the distance, she turned back to look at Fang Zhengzhi. “How did you know I would be the one to bring you here?”
“I do not know many people. Furthermore, you are the only person who I know who will treat me so well.” Fang Zhengzhi glanced at Wu Yuer before putting his other leg on the table.
“Haha… you’re quite smart. Tell me, why are you looking for me?” Wu Yuer smiled attractively.
“Shouldn’t I be asking you that question?” Fang Zhengzhi asked.
“Oh, I guess you’re right. I’ve been quite bored lately so I decided to find you for a chat. I heard that you failed the court examinations and are free at the moment.” Wu Yuer blinked as she mocked.
“I failed the court examinations?” Fang Zhengzhi did not believe that.
“Of course. Did you expect to top the examinations with your mediocre talent?” Wu Yuer asked scornfully.
“I am fine with not being first. But for me to fail… is unlikely. But since you said I failed, I must have failed. What an unlucky mouth you have!” Fang Zhengzhi replied equally scornfully.
“How dare you say that of me? Are you tired of living? I treat you so well and did not collect any money from you!” Wu Yuer feigned anger.
“Oh is that so? So I should thank you?”
“Of course.”
“I can thank you, but you must let me go first.”
“Never!”
“You really think that you can trap me using this pocket dimension?”
“Yes.”
“Okay, you win. This bloody place has trapped me. Let’s just talk terms? What must I do for you to let me out.” Fang Zhengzhi had tried everything the past few days.
Axes, blades, swords.
He tried everything but to no avail.
Furthermore, the orchard was clearly a very complicated magical formation. It would be virtually impossible to navigate through it, much less navigate out of the pocket dimension.
In the World of the Sage, Fang Zhengzhi had used the Traceless Sword to escape. That was because the sword was controlling the World of the Sage. However, it would be useless in this pocket dimension.
“Terms? Sure. Stay here for a month and I’ll let you out.” Wu Yuer smirked when she realized that Fang Zhengzhi was giving in.
“What about another one?”
“Another one… you can be my subordinate for a month.” Wu Yuer pretended to think about it.
“Another one.”
“You can offer yourself to my “Shadow Sect”. You must swear to help when you’re required!” Wu Yuer’s expression was solemn.
“Offer? Are there any benefits?” Fang Zhengzhi glanced at Wu Yuer.
“Of course there are. Everyone who offers themselves can ask for three things from the Shadow Sect. The sect will do everything in its power to make it come true.” Wu Yuer said proudly.
“It sounds fair.”
“So you agree?”
“I have no reason to reject.”
“Okay then. From this moment on, you have offered yourself to the Shadow Sect. Tell me your terms.” Wu Yuer was rather excited even though she calmed herself down quickly.
“The first one, you have to kiss me!”
“Kiss you? Haha… go to hell!” Wu Yuer chuckled, then chided.
“Why, are you going back on your word? I thought you were going to do your best to fulfill my wishes? Is there no trust between humans?”
“Is that really your first wish?”
“Is there a rule against it?”
“Nope!”
“Then come on, I’m ready.”
“A kiss for your offering. This is such a good deal!” Wu Yuer catwalked next to Fang Zhengzhi.
She was extremely attractive.
Fang Zhengzhi smiled at Wu Yuer, his lips protruding out as he waited for her to kiss them.
Wu Yuer blushed when she realized that Fang Zhengzhi had no intention of avoiding the kiss.
“Can… can I not kiss you on the lips?”
“How can that work? You must kiss me on the lips! How else can it be called a kiss?” Fang Zhengzhi shook his head vigorously.
“Ok ok… but when I kiss you, you… you can’t move!” Wu Yuer took a deep breath and grit her teeth.
“I can’t move when you kiss me? Is that even a kiss?” Fang Zhengzhi looked at Wu Yuer scornfully. Then he motioned towards her.
“Fang Zhengzhi, you are going too far! I am the leader of the Shadow Sect! Even if you join us, you can’t be rude to me!” Wu Yuer’s expression changed.
Of course, there was something that she could not bring herself to say. Even though she looked very flirtatious…
This was her first kiss!
“Going back on your word again. What a waste of time. To think that you are the leader of the Shadow Sect. If you don’t keep your promises, can the Shadow Sect even be trusted?” Fang Zhengzhi’s lips twitched as he picked up a nut.
“You… Fang Zhengzhi, in order to prove our sincerity, I can tell you a piece of news!” Wu Yuer made up her mind.
“Tell me about it.”
“Do you know Yun Qingwu?”
“I’ve met her before but I’m not familiar with her.”
“What if I told you she was the leader of the demons?”
Fang Zhengzhi’s expression changed. Yun Qingwu was the master of the demons? If news of this got out, all of the talents in the Great Xia Dynasty would go crazy.
“What does this have to do with me?” Fang Zhengzhi smiled despite his shock.
“Don’t you want to know?”
“Regardless, you’ve already told me.” Fang Zhengzhi’s lips twitched.
“I knew that you were shameless. Forget it, I’ll tell you the truth. It’s no use even if you go out now. The combat examinations have begun. A 100,000 strong army is marching to the Southern Mountain Range. You will not be able to get the military token and you have no army. You will not pass the combat examinations.” Wu Yuer sighed.
“Then why are you trapping me here?” Fang Zhengzhi asked.
“I don’t want you to go to your death…”
“Didn’t you tell me that in the Northern Mountain Village. But, am I dead? No, I’m completely fine!” Fang Zhengzhi waved her off.
“What if I told you you don’t stand a chance against Nangong Hao?” Wu Yuer’s eyes glittered.
“Everyone has said that ever since I began the Dao Examinations.”
“This is different. I can confirm that Nangong Hao is already in the Supernatural State. He may even be at the pinnacle of it!” Wu Yuer asserted.
“How do you know?”
“I saw it for myself.”
“You saw it?”
“Yes!” Wu Yuer nodded, then looked at the clouds in the sky, almost as if she was thinking of something.
Her expression slowly turned into one of shock.
After a moment of hesitation, Wu Yuer looked back at Fang Zhengzhi, “You’ve been on Yun Qingwu’s boat before. You should know how sturdy it is?”
“Mm, more or less.” Fang Zhengzhi nodded. Yun Qingwu’s boat was formed from magical formations. Everything about it was superior to even the best boats around.
“Nangong Hao used three blades. The first one destroyed the boat’s Eight Diagrams and Five Elements Formation. The second one broke her 49 servant Sword Star Formation. The third one took Yun Qingwu’s life.” Wu Yuer spoke, her eyes glimmering like interlocking sword lights.
“Yun Qingwu is dead?” Fang Zhengzhi was slightly shocked to hear this news.
Chapter 327: Seven Stars
“I don’t know.” Wu Yuer shook her head.
“Didn’t you say that you saw it with your own eyes? How do you not know now?” Fang Zhengzhi looked at Wu Yuer speechlessly.
“Yes, I ran the moment I saw that things were taking a turn for the worse!” Wu Yuer shook her head, her hair flapping in the wind.
“…” Fang Zhengzhi was speechless. She was the leader of the Shadow Sect, yet she ran the moment she saw things were turning bad?
However, if Nangong Hao was going for Yun Qingwu, why would Wu Yuer run?
It did not make sense.
Of course, Wu Yuer did not go into details and Fang Zhengzhi did not press further. However, he was certain Wu Yuer did not have any relation to Nangong Hao.
“That offer…”
Wu Yuer began to speak when she saw Fang Zhengzhi become silent. Just as she was about to try convincing him, Fang Zhengzhi waved her off.
“I will think about it. Let me out first.”
“You want to go even though you know you can’t win?”
“How would you know if you don’t try?”
“What if I told you that the Southern Mountain Range is virtually under the control of demons. Few will survive the combat examinations this time! You will…” Wu Yuer could not bring herself to say anymore.
“If what you say is true, then I must go.”
“Why?”
“Because he is there.”
“Who?”
“Yan Xiu!”
“Yan Xiu again. Are you willing to give up your life for Yan Xiu?” Wu Yuer knew that they had a good relationship, but she did not know that Fang Zhengzhi was willing to sacrifice this much for Yan Xiu.
“Yes.” Fang Zhengzhi affirmed.
“I always thought that you were shameless, so shameless that you never thought of anyone else… okay then, what if I promised to bring Yan Xiu back safely?” Wu Yuer sighed.
“Then, all the more I must go.”
“Why is that so?”
“Because if you have the confidence to bring Yan Xiu back safely, then you should have the same confidence for me right?” Fang Zhengzhi bit a melon seed as he spoke.
“…” Wu Yuer’s lips twitched as her jaw dropped. She shook her head, “You and Yan Xiu are different. Yan Xiu has people around him, you don’t…”
“Don’t I have you?”
“Me?” Wu Yuer looked at Fang Zhengzhi awkwardly, her face flushing.
“Yes, is there a problem?”
“No problem at all. If you really want to go, bring this with you.” Wu Yuer nodded solemnly and retrieved an item made from leather.
“What is this?” Fang Zhengzhi took the leather in his hands and unfurled it. He saw a few dots scattered around it.
“A map of the Southern Mountain Range.”
“Map? This can be called a map?”
“What do you know? The Southern Mountain Range is covered by woods and mountains. It is vast and outsiders will never be able to construct a detailed map. The one that I’m giving you now is the most detailed one there is.” Wu Yuer said with pride.
“This is detailed?” Fang Zhengzhi looked at the dots on the leather as well as the specks and lines. He did not understand how this could be called detailed.
“Let me introduce it to you. The Southern Mountain Range is different from the Great Xia Dynasty. It is made up of settlements. There are over 1000 settlements, but only seven large ones!”
“Seven?”
“Yes, other than the ruling Shan Family Settlement, the six other settlements are,Yan Ya Settlement, Shi Zun Settlement, Icy Monkey Settlement, Thunderous Lion Settlement, Iron Hill Settlement, and Nan Ling Settlement! As the ruling family, the Shan Family Settlement is in the Sagely Mountain City. The other six are scattered around it.
“Sagely Mountain City?”
“Yes, the Sagely Mountain City. I heard that the combat examinations are held at Yan Ya, Shi Zun, Thunderous Lion, and Icy Monkey. Actually, if you look at the Southern Mountain Range from above, it is the same as the Big Dipper Constellation.
Big Dipper?
Fang Zhengzhi unfurled the leather in his hands and realized that there were indeed seven large spots on it.
It was in the shape of the Big Dipper.
The Sagely Mountain City was right in the middle of the constellation, taking the position of Alioth. Yan Ya, Shi Zun, Thunderous Lion and Icy Monkey took the position of Dubhe, Merak, Phecda, and Megrez respectively.
Put simply, if the Big Dipper was seen as a spoon, Yan Ya, Shi Zun, Thunderous Lion, and Icy Monkey would form the ladle.
Sagely Mountain City, Iron Hill Settlement and Nan Ling Settlement were the handle.
“I see!” Fang Zhengzhi nodded. Then, he looked at Wu Yuer, his mouth curling upwards into a smile.
“What are you looking at?” Wu Yuer asked suspiciously.
“You specially told me that the Southern Mountain Range was being controlled by the demons. Then, you told me about Nangong Hao’s abilities and passed me this map. These can’t all be coincidences?”
“This… this is just in case.”
“Just in case of what?”
“Why should I tell you?”
“Okay then, I’m leaving now.”
“You are so confident that I will release you now?”
“If you had no intention of letting me go, why would you waste so much time telling me so much?” Fang Zhengzhi smiled as he looked at Wu Yuer.
“You… are really going?”
“Of course!”
“Okay then, you should go.”
“Oh? Just like that? Aren’t you going to place some of your best men under my command to protect me?” Fang Zhengzhi was slightly surprised.
“Wishful thinking. You are not part of the Shadow Sect yet, why should I protect you?” Wu Yuer’s lips twitched in scorn.
“Open the door.” Fang Zhengzhi was getting annoyed.
“Hang on, I have one more question for you.”
“What is it?”
“Who… do you think is the prettiest? Chi Guyan, Yun Qingwu, or Ping Yang?” Wu Yuer hesitated before asking.
“Why aren’t you included in the question?” Fang Zhengzhi chuckled.
“Include me? Then… amongst the four of us… who is the prettiest?” Wu Yuer’s volume dropped as she blushed.
“My mother is the prettiest!” Fang Zhengzhi replied triumphantly.
“You… you shameless fella! I have changed my mind, you can forget about leaving!” Wu Yuer disappeared from where she stood.
“No way? She ran away?!” Fang Zhengzhi was speechless. How could she leave like that?
Where was the trust between people?
…
The Southern Mountain Range was boundless. Dense forests were scattered throughout the range. The ‘Stable Mountain Gate’ was the boundary. Everything within it was the Great Xia Dynasty’s. Everything outside belonged to the Southern Mountain Range.
Even though relationships were cordial…
As the boundary, the Stable Mountain Gate was well constructed. It was constructed from limestone and stood over 10 meters high.
However, there were few battles here, so the walls were barely scratched. This was also testament to the cordial relationship between the Southern Mountain Range and the Great Xia Dynasty.
After the 100,000 strong army rested for a night, they were welcomed by the diplomatic mission from the Southern Mountain Range. At the gates, Crown Prince Lin Tian Rong reiterated the rules of the combat examinations.
Then, the candidates led their armies into the territories.
How big was the Southern Mountain Range?
This was a question which few people knew the answer to. However, from territory alone, it was almost half the size of the Great Xia Dynasty. That being said, its population was much lower.
The place was dangerous and ferocious beasts roamed everywhere.
“It’s difficult to even walk in this bloody place. When will we be able to see a village?” One of the candidates whined as he saw the dense forests.
“Brother Li, you made a mistake. There are no villages here, they are settlements. When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Another candidate chuckled.
“You and I are both of noble blood. If not for the combat examinations, we would not even be here! I… quick, there is movement up ahead, into your formations!”
“Brother Li, no need to be this tense. It is just a few scattered beasts. We have 4000 men under our command. As long as we don’t run into a herd, it should be of no problem.”
“Hahaha… Brother Wang is right. Come on, let’s show them our skills and hunt some beasts to feed our men!”
“If Brother Li would humor me, why don’t we have a hunting competition?”
“Okay!” The candidate smiled and nodded. Then, he turned his horse around and shouted to his troops, “Rest here, Brother Wang and I will return shortly!”
“Gen… General Li, this place is teeming with dangerous beasts. Shouldn’t we send some men to protect you?” One of the lieutenants raised a concern.
“Hahaha… I am already at the pinnacle of the Heavenly Reflection State. Do I need your protection?” The candidate said dismissively.
“I was just…”
“Enough, just wait and enjoy the game I will bring back!”
“Yes general!”
“Brother Wang, we were played by Fang Zhengzhi in the hunting and racing competition. Let’s have a good one today!” The talent turned to look at his friend.
“Since we want to compete, we must have some reward. I… will use my piece of jade as a wager. How about it?” The youth chuckled.
“Since you’ve wagered that, I shall match you. I will wager my jade plank!”
“Okay then, let us begin!”
“Jia!”
“Jia!”
…
After 15 minutes, at a spot two miles from where the troops were resting, two bodies crashed into the ground. Eight masked men in black stood around the bodies.
“Humans… are really dumb sometimes!”
Chapter 328: The real motive of the combat examinations
One of the masked men placed the dagger in his hands on his lips as he licked the blood on the blade. His eyes glittered with pride.
This was an arrogance that stemmed from within.
“What are you talking about? The Domain Chief is still waiting. Strip these two humans and you two will dress up as them!” Another masked man ordered icily.
“Yes!” The male immediately kept his blade, his arrogance turning into respect.
The wind blew and carried the scent of blood into the woods. This quickly attracted wild beasts. When the beasts saw the two naked bodies…
“Roar!” They lunged and picked the bones clean within moments.
Sometimes, things were just so ironic. These two men may have been of noble origin and led good lives. However, once they were dead, they were just bodies…
…
Fang Zhengzhi did not know that Wu Yuer would have brought him so far from the capital. In order to get back to the capital would waste too much time.
More importantly, it would be meaningless.
He should just head straight for the Stable Mountain Gates.
However, Wu Yuer’s actions had caused him a huge problem. Right now, he did not have any soldiers.
No soldiers?
How was he going to participate in the combat examinations?
It felt like he was going to ice skate without skates. Ice skate barefoot? It did not seem like a huge problem. However, skating slowly was not the problem, he could not stand the cold!
Was he going to ride into battle alone?
That would be a legendary story.
He had no idea if he was lucky or unlucky.
A week later, a figure appeared at the Stable Mountain Gates. The figure wore a blue long sleeved shirt and rode a poor horse of unknown breed.
Only two people would enter the city at this time. A leather merchant, or Fang Zhengzhi.
The answer was the latter.
Fang Zhengzhi glanced at the limestone buildings around him. He also looked at the solemn soldiers passing through the streets.
He had two choices.
He could find the general in charge of holding this fort. He could introduce himself and request for some soldiers. However, success would depend on the general’s character.
The second option was to enter the Southern Mountain Range alone.
Before making his final decision, Fang Zhengzhi decided to have a good meal. He had been rushing all the way to this place. He couldn’t possibly leave on an empty stomach.
Being this close to the Southern Mountain Range, the city had no lack of delicacies.
Each restaurant served the meats of various beasts.
“Recently slaughtered! Cut off what you want to eat!”
“Would you like to go inside?”
All of the sounds showed how bustling the city was. Even though it was no match for the capital, this city was still doing quite well.
Fang Zhengzhi picked a decent restaurant and chose a place with the most people. He called a waiter and placed his order. Then, he began to drink.
He chose the most populated place so he could listen to recent news.
The restaurants were always the best place to gather information. Having roamed the streets for so many years, Fang Zhengzhi was well aware of this fact.
The better the seat, the better the information that he could gather.
As more and more customers entered, Fang Zhengzhi’s ears perked up. Most of them were talking about the combat examinations.
Fang Zhengzhi combined the information he heard here with those he gathered along the way. He began to have some understanding of the combat examinations.
“The Great Xia Dynasty sent 100,000 soldiers.”
“Each candidate was given 2000 soldiers and the title of General.”
“Crown Prince Lin Tianrong commands over 40,000 troops in support.”
“The results will be based on the number of surviving soldiers and territories controlled!”
Fang Zhengzhi enjoyed the wine and food leisurely as he listened to the news. At the same time, he thought of how he was going to do well in the examinations.
On the surface, his biggest problem was that he did not have any soldiers. He could not take the test alone. However, this was not what was bothering him the most.
The question bothering him the most was…
The motive of the courts!
In order to answer a question, one could not just take the question at face value. One had to guess the intentions of the person setting the question. Why would he set such a question? What was the question asking? What was he thinking? What were the hints and hidden ideas?
The court examination.
It was the most important examination in the Great Xia Dynasty. It was the examination which required the most thinking, intellect, and power. Yet, the rules were this simple? Guard the territories and conserve troops?
If that was the case, why was there a need for 40,000 troops as reinforcements? What were they supporting?
Ensuring the safety of the candidates?
That sounded reasonable, but it did not seem very likely on closer thought.
After all, Fang Zhengzhi knew for a fact that he had topped the court theory examination. Wu Yuer had told him this when he left.
To put it simply, the theory examination question was based on battle.
The policy the Emperor was looking for was battle!
That was what the Emperor was thinking as well!
Battle…
Then this was not as simple as an examination… There was something amiss, but the Emperor would not announce this to the public.
Furthermore, Wu Yuer had told him that the Southern Mountain Range was virtually under the control of the demons. This meant that they did not have complete control!
Else, they would be at war now.
Fang Zhengzhi trusted the intelligence from the Shadow Sect. However, he did not think that all of the officials in the Great Xia Dynasty were idiots.
For the court to not know what the Shadow Sect knew was virtually impossible.
As to why they didn’t announce it…
They must have been worried that this would cause mass hysteria. The other possibility was that the Emperor had no intention of discussing this.
Fang Zhengzhi’s eyes brightened when he thought of this.
“I understand now! The combat examinations are not as simple as they look. Guarding the settlements is just another way of asking them to control the settlements.”
The first step was to use the combat examinations as a reason to control yan Ya, Shi Zun, Thunderous Lion and Icy Monkey. Then, they can use those four settlements as a base. In the event things take a turn for the worse, they could siege the Sagely Mountain City.
Second…
Fang Zhengzhi had not thought that far.
After all, the current situation was not that bad. The Emperor’s thoughts and the decision of the courts was still up in the air.
He did not know, so he could not make an educated guess.
However, there was one thing Fang Zhengzhi could be sure of.
Would the Southern Mountain Range agree to the Great Xia Dynasty sending in 100,000 troops to control the four settlements. Would the demons agree?
Definitely not.
This was going to be a battle in the shadows. In Wu Yuer’s words, few candidates would be able to survive this examination.
This had nothing to do with the court’s viciousness.
If he was correct, each candidate would have a deputy. This deputy should have a secret token which will allow him to stop the exam immediately.
It would be great if the combat examinations could continue as planned.
However, should anything change for the worse, the deputy would be able to take control of the army and the 100,000 strong army would become one unit.
Fang Zhengzhi had nothing but admiration for the Emperor’s plan.
This was the best way to deal with the current situation. He could attack or defend. If the Southern Mountain Range was peaceful, then this would be a peaceful examinations.
However, if they tried anything funny, he could declare war in an instant.
More importantly, all the citizens were not alerted.
Everyone thought of this as the combat examinations. Naturally, no one would think of the real reason why the Great Xia Dynasty was sending 100,000 soldiers into the Southern Mountain Range.
Fang Zhengzhi raised his glass and took a sip.
It was a little spicy.
This was some hard liquor.
Fang Zhengzhi’s alcohol tolerance was average. He could not binge drink, so he had to moderate his intake of such hard liquor.
Now that he had guessed the Emperor’s intent, he had to think for himself. How was he going to top the examinations under such circumstances?
Without soldiers…
He could not join in the battle for territory. As such, he could not be graded.
So, was he going to borrow soldiers?
But what was he going to do after that?
Was he going to enter the four settlements and fight it out stupidly like the other candidates who still thought it was an examination?
That was too uncouth.
He was an educated man. Why would he stoop so low?
Furthermore, Yan Xiu would have figured it out as well. Wu Feng as well. As for Nangong Hao…
That was a foregone conclusion.
Fang Zhengzhi never underestimated his opponent. For Nangong Hao to engage him in that battle of wits during the theory examination showed that Nangong Hao was not a simple person.
Right now, Nangong Hao may be looking at the secret token his deputy had.
Okay then…
Here came the problem.
How was he going to ensure that he did well in the examination despite the confusion. How was he going to avoid battling all the other candidates?
Chapter 329: Exotic
Of course, most importantly, he wanted to stay out of danger!
Fang Zhengzhi was never fond of taking risks. Even though people said that breakthroughs were more likely on the brink of death…
He always thought that it was a death wish.
If you always walked along the river, your shoes were bound to get wet.
Fang Zhengzhi felt that the safest way was to stay away from danger. He wanted to spectate the battles and gain understanding that way.
Okay then…
Since he could not think of anything now, he would just start moving first. It would not help if he just sat in the restaurant. It was much more effective to walk 10,000 miles than to read 10,000 books.
This was the idea he was applying to this situation.
“Waiter, bill please!”
“Thank you!”
After he left the restaurant, Fang Zhengzhi found the camp of the general.
Solemn soldiers guarded the perimeter. As the general of the border, he had quite a number of men under him.
All of the soldiers wore gleaming armor.
“Who are you? How dare you trespass this camp?!” One of the guards raised his hand to intercept Fang Zhengzhi.
Fang Zhengzhi was in no mood to explain. He took out his official stamp and waved it in front of the guard.
“Greetings Sword Envoy!”
“Bring me to your general.”
“Your honor, please wait a moment. Let me announce your arrival!”
“Mm.” Fang Zhengzhi nodded. Even though a rank four official was not much to be proud of in the capital, he was one of the most high ranking personnel here.
Before long, the general in black armor walked out. He was in his forties, his eyes small. It looked like he had two threads for eyes.
“I am General Yu Tianfeng, may I know if you are Sword Envoy Fang?” Yu Tianfeng asked as he walked to Fang Zhengzhi.
“Yes.” Fang Zhengzhi nodded.
“It is an honor. I have heard much about your exploits in the court. You are young and talented. I did not believe some of the stories I heard, but now I do. Congratulations on topping the theory examination. I wonder what Sword Envoy Fang needs from us?”
“I need to borrow soldiers.”
“Borrow soldiers? Erm… based on what I know, Sword Envoy Fang is not in the military. Why do you need the soldiers?”
“I need 2000 to participate in the combat examinations.”
“Haha, I have heard about you missing the combat examination. It is saddening for me as well. Normally, 2000 soldiers would not be a problem, but, you know… this is not a good time.” Yu Tianfeng hesitated.
“Why?”
“All I can say is that the entire border is on heightened awareness. I do not have enough soldiers myself. If I lend you some and lose the position as a result… I will be executed!”
“I understand, goodbye.” Fang Zhengzhi nodded and did not say any more.
“Where is Sword Envoy Fang going? Since you’ve already missed the combat examination, why don’t you rest here for a few days? I will host you.”
“No thanks, I have to go back to the capital to get soldiers.” Fang Zhengzhi waved him off and left.
“I see, then I will not delay your trip any longer!” Yu Tianfeng smirked as he looked at Fang Zhengzhi walk into the distance.
Go back to the capital?!
Even if you do, you may not be able to get soldiers!
“General, should we send people to follow him? Prevent him from going into the Southern Mountain Range?” One of his lieutenants whispered as he watched Fang Zhengzhi’s silhouette disappear.
“No need for that. Without soldiers, he would not be able to do anything in the Southern Mountain Range. Furthermore, he has incurred the wrath of the Emperor by missing the combat examination. By returning to the capital, he is finding trouble for himself. There is no way he will get any soldiers. He will not be able to participate this time!”
“Then… should we report this to King Duan?”
“Mm, send a message to King Duan. Tell him that Fang Zhengzhi tried to borrow soldiers from me but I did not give him anything. Then tell him that Fang Zhengzhi may return to the capital. Give King Duan time to prepare.”
“Okay, I understand.”
…
There was no way Fang Zhengzhi was going to go back to the capital to levy soldiers.
His lack of troops was his biggest disadvantage right now. This prevented him from participating in the combat examinations and protect his territory.
Wu Yuer had completely f*cked him over.
He had lost the initiative.
Since she was going to let him go anyways, why bother catching him? Crazy b*tch!
Fang Zhengzhi had no idea what Wu Yuer was thinking. Maybe she did not want him to participate in the combat examinations. However, her actions showed that she had expected this outcome.
She even prepared the map.
So what was the reason?
Hang on…
The map…
Fang Zhengzhi took out the map Wu Yuer had prepared for him. Even though it was quite badly constructed, the spots were all labelled clearly.
Yan Ya, Shi Zun, Thunderous Lion, Icy Monkey…
He could not go there right now.
After all, those four places were probably the most dangerous and complicated in the entire Southern Mountain Range.
There were 100,000 soldiers from the Great Xia Dynasty. There would also be troops from the Southern Mountain Range and possibly the demons.
He did not even have a single soldier under his command.
He would be sending himself to his death if he went to any of these four locations.
What about the Sagely Mountain City?
Fang Zhengzhi’s eyes brightened. The Sagely Mountain City was the capital of the Southern Mountain Region. If he went there, he would be able to immerse himself into the culture. That sounded like quite a good idea.
However, he did not really know the Southern Mountain Range well. To go straight to the Sagely Mountain Village would be overly ambitious.
He had to understand the area first.
He would understand it from the outskirts.
Of course, Fang Zhengzhi had decided that… if he couldn’t participate in the combat examinations… he would just forget about it!
He would just take this as an overseas holiday.
The stress in Fang Zhengzhi’s heart disappeared in an instant. Since he was going on a trip, he had to prepare for it. He did not leave the city instantly, choosing to shop for clothes at a nearby store.
“Do you have any ethnic clothes?”
Fang Zhengzhi asked as he entered the shop.
“Ethnic? You found the right place! We have ethnic and exotic clothes in abundance!” The shopkeeper’s eyes brightened when he heard this.
“Bring me two sets.” Fang Zhengzhi replied generously.
“Okay, just wait a moment.” The shopkeeper ran into the shop and carried out a pile of clothes.
“What is this?” Fang Zhengzhi had really thought he had come to the right place. However, he could not understand what he was seeing.
“They’re clothes!”
“Are these for men or for women?”
“I didn’t know you were into that. These are all for women, but, if you like males… ahem, I have some inside!”
“Scram!” Fang Zhengzhi raged.
Who is this?
He was so handsome, why would he be into that?
“Young Master, please do not get angry. If you do not like these mediocre products, I have some valuable ones inside. They are truly exotic. There are those for the avant garde, or the passionate. Furthermore…”
“I want what they wear in the Southern Mountain Range!”
“Ah? That’s quite difficult. The people in the Southern Mountain Range don’t wear clothes.”
“Don’t wear clothes?” Fang Zhengzhi was shocked by this. Why wouldn’t they wear clothes? Did they walk around naked?
“Yes, they wear leather and use leaves to cover their privates. If you want that, I have a few leather pieces inside. However, you will have to get the leaves yourself.”
“Give me two!”
“Okay, I will get you two superior leather clothing.”
Fang Zhengzhi’s Heart Protection Mirror now contained two additional leather robes. One was with leopard prints, the other with white tiger prints.
It was rather domineering.
Fang Zhengzhi was pleased with this.
Then, Fang Zhengzhi began to turn. He had to prepare food and other necessities for the trek.
There were many people who would leave the gate to hunt in the Southern Mountain Range. As such, the things he needed were quite easy to find.
He had everything he needed.
Fang Zhengzhi did not waste anymore time.
He used the leather to mask his face, then barged through one of the gates.
As to why he barged…
The reason was simple. He did not have any permit to pass through nor the right to heart. It would be impossible for him to get out without revealing his identity. As such, he had to use violence.
After exiting the gates, he was chased for a distance before he finally managed to melt right into the woods.
He found a place to change his clothes. He placed his blue long sleeved shirt in his Heart Protection Mirror, donning the leopard prints in its place.
He recalled Shan Jia’s dressing back on Cang Ling Mountain. He found a few branches and made a hat.
Then, he ruffled his hair.
He thought that he was doing quite a good job of assimilating.
Mm…
Quite exotic indeed.
He wondered how the women here dressed. He looked at the vast green mountains in front of him. He wondered if he would see anything of interest.
Chapter 330: You’re the boss
…
Ten days later.
“Zoom!” An arrow shot through the air. It was a jade green arrow flying faster than a shooting star. It sailed through the air and exploded upon impact with the ground.
“Aroo…” An armored scaled pig screamed in pain before falling to the ground, blood flowing from an open wound.
Just at this moment, a figure appeared in the distance.
A figure dressed in leopard prints and holding a jade green bow skipped next to the big. He hummed a tune as he did so.
Fang Zhengzhi wanted to get to the Iron Hill settlement. It was the closest to the Sagely Mountain city.
For the past 10 days, he used the map to find a way around the four major settlements. Coupled with the keen hearing he developed from his years on Cang Ling Mountain, he managed to avoid getting into trouble.
Right now, he was already outside the four major settlements.
This allowed him to relax a little. He wanted to hunt some game to make a nice meal for himself. This pig became his target.
“Forgive me, I am just hunting for food!” Fang Zhengzhi bowed to the Arrow Toothed Pig, then smirked.
It was quite the overkill.
He kept his Sun Shooting Bow and retrieved a small knife. As he cut off pieces of meat, he murmured to himself, “Pig tails, pig ears, pig tongue, yummy…”
However…
After all, one man’s meat was another man’s poison.
That being said, change and surprises were an inevitable part of life!
Just as Fang Zhengzhi hummed his tune and butchered the pig, there was a movement in the surrounding bushes.
He was now on alert.
It was not rare to encounter ferocious beasts here. However, ordinarily, there would not be too many small beasts where the dangerous ones roamed.
He had already picked a position with many small beasts.
Just as he thought about it, he heard a “zoom zoom zoom…” in the air. Then, rays of black fell from the sky.
“Spears?” Fang Zhengzhi immediately saw what those black rays were.
This was slightly different to the lances used by the army. Those were not usually thrown, but one could throw a spear. Furthermore, they did a lot of damage to beasts.
Did he wander into the hunting grounds of a tribe?
But there was nothing on the map?!
Fang Zhengzhi easily dodged all the falling spears. However, there was an order as to how they were thrown. They were not used to kill Fang Zhengzhi.
They were used to trap him.
Circles of spears formed around Fang Zhengzhi. It was not large, but it trapped Fang Zhengzhi in the center.
“Freeze!” A voice could be heard from the bushes.
Then, hundreds of figures appeared around him. Each one of them held a long black spear in their hands and wore green rattan armor.
Fang Zhengzhi had seen this armor before. Shan Jia had worn it in The Vast World.
However, these men wore armor which was much weaker and simpler. It only covered the vital areas like the chest and the groin. Everything else was left uncovered. They were all tanned from prolonged exposure to the sun.
Aborigines!
Fang Zhengzhi recognized these people instantly. He was certain that these men were from the Southern Mountain Range army.
If it was just a hunting tribe, their dressing and weapons would be more varied.
However, all of their armor and weapons were standardized.
They had to be from the Southern Mountain Range army.
If he had indeed run into the army…
His plan would be foiled.
“Which settlement are you from?” One of the middle aged men looked at Fang Zhengzhi’s dressing and asked suspiciously.
“Which settlement?” Fang Zhengzhi’s eyes brightened. He wanted to just use any random name, but he realized that it was not going to work.
If he hadn’t seen the aborigines…
He would have thought of assimilating into the army or a settlement. However, after seeing their appearance, he basically gave up on that idea.
Because…
He was too white.
By asking which settlement he was from, his opponent was trying to trick him.
The people of the Southern Mountain Range were not dumb at all.
However, Fang Zhengzhi never expected that he would run into the Southern Mountain Range Army the moment he stepped outside the boundaries of the four settlements. He was not prepared for that.
He did not have many options right now.
His first option was to be weak and act like an idiot. He could refuse to answer every question and used some dance moves to shock them. Then, he may be able to seize an opportunity to escape.
His second option was to be strong!
There was a saying, if my enemy is weak, I am powerful. If my enemy is powerful, I am weak.
It was a very simple equation.
Fang Zhengzhi calmed himself down and looked slightly arrogant. He wagged his finger at the middle aged man.
The middle aged man looked around his surroundings, his suspicions raised. However, this was still his territory.
He walked next to Fang Zhengzhi.
“I asked you which settlement you are from?!”
“Smack!”
With a clean swipe of his hand, one of the spears in the ground was split into two by Fang Zhengzhi. It was a clean cut.
“You…” The middle aged man was stunned by Fang Zhengzhi’s actions. He subconsciously tightened his grip on his spear as he took a step back.
All of the soldiers behind him also raised their spears. They prepared to charge forward when they heard the command.
“What settlement?! Can’t you see my leather? Do I look like a villager to you? I am an envoy! Are you blind?” Fang Zhengzhi replied rudely.
After showing his power, he had to be fierce enough.
“Envoy? You… are?” The middle aged man was slightly taken aback.
He did not attack Fang Zhengzhi immediately because he noticed that Fang Zhengzhi was wearing superior leather. Only two types of people could wear such leather.
An “ignorant” spy from the Great Xia Dynasty…
Or someone of serious standing…
But now, he did not attack Fang Zhengzhi because of an additional reason…
Fang Zhengzhi was very powerful!
“If I had chopped your neck, what do you think would have happened? Enough crap, get your people to move aside! Who are you to question me?” Fang Zhengzhi waved him off in exasperation. He had to show them that he would not tolerate nonsense.
“Send the signal!” The middle aged man’s expression darkened when he heard this. He waved to the soldiers behind him and Fang Zhengzhi was surrounded.
After the middle aged man finished speaking, Fang Zhengzhi saw a soldier shoot an arrow into the sky.
“Bong!” A crisp sound could be heard.
Fang Zhengzhi was slightly taken aback. What the hell is going on? Did he fail in his plan?
That’s impossible.
He would have been able to kill the middle aged man without any problem. The fact that he didn’t showed that he was one of them. Furthermore, his attitude should have been convincing enough. There should be no reason for a ‘rebellion’.
“Are you trying to violate my status?” Fang Zhengzhi had no choice but to stick to his story. He had no idea how many people he was facing.
“If you really are an envoy, tell us your intentions. If not, you can forget about leaving this place!” The middle aged man did not have any intention of attacking just yet.
“Aren’t you afraid I’ll have your head for this?” Fang Zhengzhi replied coldly.
“I am just doing my job, I fear nothing!” The middle aged man replied with determination.
“Fear nothing?” Fang Zhengzhi stared at the middle aged man. This was only the second time he had interacted with someone from the Southern Mountain Range.
However, he could see a strong determination in the eyes of the middle aged man.
All these while, Fang Zhengzhi had read that those who grew up in harsher environments were stronger. He could see this trait from this man.
The people from the Southern Mountain Range…
Were really different from those of the Great Xia Dynasty!
“Tell us!” The hundreds of soldiers shouted in unison when they heard the middle aged man. Their crisp voices echoed throughout the woods.
Could Fang Zhengzhi say?
He was not familiar with the Southern Mountain Range. The more he said, the larger the gaps in his story. He could not just come up with a random story.
Fang Zhengzhi had two choices.
He could kill them, or run.
Killing was an option. However, killing without reason was unnecessary. Furthermore, he did not know how they were like.
Kill all of these soldiers?
He was not a maniac.
Even if he killed all of them, he would still have to run.
Fang Zhengzhi knew he should be running.
He wanted to be stronger than these people, but they were definitely stronger than him.
It was not that he was not witty enough, but his opponent was much too determined. He wasn’t even afraid of death. Such a person was not antagonizable.
He turned…
And ran.
“You want to run? Even the fastest beasts cannot outrun us, haha!” The middle aged man chuckled icily when he saw Fang Zhengzhi run.
The sky was filled with spears even before the middle aged man ordered for it.
A row of spears blocked Fang Zhengzhi’s escape route.
Then, hundreds of soldiers surrounded him from both sides. They all growled in a deep voice.
“Aroo ooh ooh ooh…”
“Dong, dong, dong!”
“…”
Fang Zhengzhi was rather depressed. The road ahead was blocked and the soldiers surrounded his flanks. Was he really going to have to resort to killing?
Just as he was thinking about it, he heard crashing sounds in the near distance. Then, he heard waves of roars from beasts.
He turned and was stunned by what he saw.
Within moments, there were thousands of soldiers surrounding him. They all rushed his position, each one riding a two meter high beast.
It was a wolf like creature with blueish-purple fur. It had a single silver horn on its forehead, and it was two to three times larger than the wolf.
It was the silver horned wolf!
It was a beast which was even more ferocious than the Blue Fire Wolf. Each one had the power of a Heavenly Reflection State cultivator.
“Damn it, why did I have to run into the elite army of the Southern Mountain Range!” Fang Zhengzhi paled.
He did not know how many silver horned wolf squads there were in the Southern Mountain Range. He didn’t think that there were many, so what was with the 1000 he saw in front of him?
If this wasn’t the main force of the Southern Mountain Range army?
What was?
“Hang on! I was just testing your reactions. You’re right… I am an envoy!” Fang Zhengzhi raised his hands. He could not defeat them. There were more than 1000 silver horned wolves and soldiers. They could grind him down easily.
He couldn’t run either. His only choice was to try to prolong his life.
“Then please tell us what you’re here for.” The middle aged man raised his hand, then walked briskly to Fang Zhengzhi without fear.
“What if I killed you right now?” Fang Zhengzhi asked as the man walked over.
“I will become one with the mountain. My flesh and bones will provide nourishment for the plants and my blood will give moisture to the ground. I will be with the Southern Mountain Range!” The middle aged man replied proudly.
“Okay, I was just kidding.” Fang Zhengzhi’s lips twitched. He knew that there were religions out there.
They were capable of banding people together and produce zealots blindly faithful to their cause.
“Tell us what you are here for.” The middle aged man was in no mood to waste time.
“I can say it, but I can’t tell it to you.”
“Then who can you tell it to?”
“Your general of course.”
“General?” The middle aged man frowned, then nodded, “I understand. Envoy, please follow me!”
Fang Zhengzhi smiled.
What a change of attitude?
Did his plan succeed?
Okay then, he will meet with the general in charge then think of a plan from there. In the worst case, he could kidnap the general!
A lieutenant may be dispensable, but was a general?
Fang Zhengzhi smirked. Everything was still in control, all he had to do was find a suitable opportunity to escape.
…
Initially, Fang Zhengzhi thought that he would be bound or blindfolded. However, none of the above happened.
He began to relax a little.
However, he was on alert right after exiting the woods.
There was a hundred meter high rock in front of him. There was a large army camp below it. It was constructed using wood, with leaves as camouflage.
It was quite well camouflaged. Anyone looking for it from a higher position would have been hard pressed to find it.
This was a real army cam, and it was well hidden and set up. But why would there be a camp here?
Fang Zhengzhi wanted to run but he had no chance to.
He had run into the main force of the Southern Mountain Range!
The middle aged man led Fang Zhengzhi through the camp for more than 15 minutes. Fang Zhengzhi finally saw what the Southern Mountain Range army was like.
Each soldier was dark skinned and wore the same rattan armor. They held long spears and were hulkingly huge.
When Fang Zhengzhi walked through, he piqued the interest of all the other soldiers. However, no one asked any questions.
He lost track of time.
The middle aged man finally stopped then fell to his knees, murmuring almost as if he was saying a prayer.
Soon after, he stood up and pointed respectfully to a wooden path in front of him.
“Envoy, please!”
“Thank you.” Fang Zhengzhi nodded.
Fang Zhengzhi realized something different about the tent in front of him. It was covered with a thick layer of greenery and there were all sorts of carvings on the pillars.
The middle aged man had kneeled towards these carvings.
The defences around this tent were also much stronger. There were at least 20-30 guards in each of the four directions. There were no less than 100 soldiers guarding this tent.
After seeing Fang Zhengzhi and the middle aged man.
The guards at the front of the tent finally spoke. He lowered his spear at Fang Zhengzhi and the middle aged man.
“Who is that man?”
“Envoy.” The middle aged man replied respectfully.
“I understand, please enter.” The soldier nodded. Then, he returned to his original position.
The middle aged man quickly stepped forward and opened up one of the flaps to the tent. Then he nodded to Fang Zhengzhi.
As the flap was opened, Fang Zhengzhi heard a caucus within, almost as if there was an ongoing intense discussion.
Fang Zhengzhi had no choice but to enter.
He stepped into the tent.
The tent fell silent.
Fang Zhengzhi was silent as well. He realized that there was more than one person inside the tent.
More than 20 people sat in two rows beside a table.
They were all dressed differently from the soldiers outside. Their armor was more intricate and they had a layer of leather.
More importantly, their arms had a faint glow. Upon closer inspection, they were all rather queer pictures.
Of course, Fang Zhengzhi fell silent not because of the 20 people inside the tent. He quietened down because the person sitting at the top…
Was a lady.
A lady laying on a piece of golden leather.
Her skin glowed and she was clearly in the pink of health. A snow white piece of leather wrapped around her privates.
Her belly button and slender legs were there for all to admire. She was quite the attractive lady.
There was a leather ring wrapped around her right leg. She had two daggers kept there.
Other than the fact that she was dressed differently, what made her stand out was that she wore a bone toothed accessory on her head. It was also adorned with a five colored feather.
She was a person of power!
“How exotic?” Fang Zhengzhi stared at the features of the lady in front of him, admiring her glowing eyes.
This lady was an exotic beauty.
She was not hulking or tough, but exquisite and dainty.
However…
Fang Zhengzhi was still in the position of weakness.
After all, she was the boss.
Was this the way the culture of the Southern Mountain Range?
“Princess, the fake envoy is here!” The middle aged man walked in and fell to his knees. He did not even dare to look up.
“Okay… you may leave now.” The lady’s voice rang out. Then, she sat upright.
Fang Zhengzhi’s expression changed instantly.
Princess?!
He knew this term well. After all, he had just had a hotpot and drinks with over a dozen princesses.
But now…
When he heard the term being said…
He knew he was finished!
Which envoy would call the princess a general?
As such, all the pleasantries were just a trap to lure him here. And now, he had stepped right into the trap.