Feng Yu Jiu Tian

 Feng Yu Jiu Tian

Volume 13

(T errifying Supernal Magic)  xfengyujiutian.tumblr.com

Translator: Christy Editors: Fern, Joy, Manu, Jolly

Chapter 1

It drizzled for several days.

The spring rain continued to drag on, falling subtly but yet lightly. It wasn’t cold and even if someone were to stand in the rain, draped in light clothing and drenched wet, he would not feel uncomfortable at all.

The spring rain came quietly and stopped silently. The fresh air in the early morning caused everyone to get up early, surprised that the wet weather had pa.s.sed. The sun rose from the bottom of the mountain, s.h.i.+ning across the land, bringing happiness within the hearts of everyone.

The orchestrated magic show Feng Ming carefully planned had almost reached the complete critical moment.

“How’s the preparation going?”

The s.p.a.cious living room of the large Xiao s.h.i.+p had recently become Feng Ming and the others’ secret location. There were 20 highly skilled henchmen of the Xiao surrounding the outside and another 20 elite bodyguards of Rong Tian’s, along with Rong Hu and Luo Yun, the two lead bodyguards in charge. Those who partic.i.p.ated in the secret meeting, in addition to Feng Ming, were Tai Can and Yong Yin General Le Ting.

“Everything is prepared.” In these recent days of close liaison, Le Ting and everyone within Feng Ming’s circle became more familiar. The distance from the beginning was completely put

 aside and now everyone had come to the point of calling each other brothers. When Le Ting arrived he wore a large black hat covering his face and softly said, “The execution ground has been dug up and can hide a person. The wooden box that I ordered has also been nailed properly and can be used on the execution day.”

Feng Ming quickly crossed his arms and said, “The wooden box doesn’t need to be prepared properly. This magic trick will make everyone amazed. If we were to prepare the wooden box, someone might speculate that something strange might be going on. In my opinion, you just need to prepare a pile of wood, then at that time, the wooden box can be made to indicate that you weren’t involved and did not have any ulterior motive.”

Le Ting thought about it, raised his head and laughed, “You’re right. I’m not involved, even the box will be made on site so that those henchmen of Yong Quan won’t suspect anything as they flee in anger, haha...”

“Oh? And regarding your brother­in­law...” Feng Ming turned around to look at Tai Can.

Tai Can’s dead­end situation had been saved; therefore, he was very grateful to Feng Ming. If Feng Ming were to say something, he would never oppose him. After hearing Feng Ming questioning him, he quickly walked over, “I have followed Xiao Duke Ming’s words. I’ll pretend to be bedridden, stricken by sadness. Yesterday, I pulled myself up to visit my brother­in­law for the last time. I have informed him of Xiao Duke Ming’s plans as well.”

“Did you carefully relay the message? This skit is very important, there can’t be any mistakes or our magic show will be foiled.” Feng Ming gravely reiterated his concerns in the matter.

“Xiao Duke Ming, please rest a.s.sured. This matter is related to my brother­in­law’s life, how can I mess it up? I have repeated it to him many times and he has uttered it back smoothly several times before I left.”

“That’s good, very good.” Feng Ming let out a long sigh.

It’s so tiring! Everything is easier said than done, and this magic trick was no exception. Although he seemed to have everything under control, in fact, among all these people, the person who is most worried is him. Because the consequences are very serious. With any other magic show, if it fails, the media will just make fun of it. Following that, there won’t be many people to praise it. But this is not like that. If there is the slightest flaw and someone were to create suspicion, then the Xiao family will be implicated within this Yong Yin conflict. The consequences will also put the warm­hearted General Le Ting at risk. Robbing the execution ground is like belittling the law, the punishment is the same as execution. If someone were to find out, Tai Can, Le Ting and everyone else will lose their lives.

That wine brewer must die in a way that won’t cast any shadow of doubt.

 Le Ting was familiar with the battlefields and had killed many people; therefore, he was much braver than the average person. This invigorating game made him even more excited as he said, “Right now, everything is ready. The execution had been announced three days ago, I have ordered people to spread the news and the execution ground will be held at the gates of Fan Cheng. Since the prisoner in Fan Cheng is a famous wine brewer and an innocent person nonetheless, there will be a huge crowd of people.”

“With so many witnesses, there will be plenty of proof that Le Ting killed my brother­in­law.”

“Blessed the heavens, this innocent person can finally be saved.” Chiu Lan placed her palms together and she muttered a few sentences while closing her eyes. Opening them up again, she quickly said, “I hope everyone will be safe, Duke Ming will accomplish another good deed.”

FM: What does this have to do with accomplis.h.i.+ng another good deed? Since I’ve witnessed injustice, I just wanted to help out. It isn’t about fulfilling a good deed.

CL: Duke Ming, saving many people will bring about good fortune. You can’t look down upon good fortune. If in the future you were to meet with misfortune, the heavens might be merciful because of the good deeds you’ve done, they will help Duke Ming.

CX: Duke Ming doesn’t need to pay attention to her. Chiu Lan was feeling bored these past few days and went to the library on the s.h.i.+p to read some books. Among the books, she found one that talked about Good Fortune. After reading it, she’s been doing all sorts of good deeds to create good fortune.

FM: A couple more days when I have free time, I would like to take a look at that book. Since we’ll have lots of free time, we can both read and discuss it.

CL: This isn’t something you can joke about.

Feng Ming fondly touched her face and pinched her cheek, no longer arguing with her.

He turned around to glance over at Tai Can and Le Ting. After a while, his handsome face converged a smile, revealing a rare solemn expression, “The upcoming event, does anyone have any concerns after thinking it over carefully?”

LT: We have gone through this for a few days now, all the issues we’ve come up with have been dealt with, Duke Ming shouldn’t worry too much.

Tai Can was more timid, looking down as he thought once more, “All the things that we can do have been done carefully.”

 “Then that’s good.” Feng Ming asked, “When is the execution time?” “Today at noon.”

“Good!” Feng Ming went silent for a bit, then hollered out that even his loud voice frightened him. He looked left and then right, jumped up from his seat, his eyes s.h.i.+mmering while he tilted his head and smiled, “Everything is ready, now we wait for the opportune time. This magic trick of bringing a dead person to life can officially make a debut, all of you can go and prepare. No need to worry, just do it. This plan of Duke Ming will be successful!”

LT: I will immediately head back now. In the afternoon, I will personally travel to the execution ground at the gates of Fan Cheng and take on the responsibility of Execution Supervisor.

TC: I also have to quickly go home and pretend to be sick. At the time of the execution, I also want to pretend to be overly emotional and faint. Once I return home, I will powder my face pale white and practice my lines some more.

The two of them bid their farewells. Feng Ming escorted them outside the living room. He strode back and, looking at his maids, he spread his hand and asked, “How was my demeanor just now?”

“Very good.” Chiu Xing was the first one to answer.

Chiu Yue said, “Very determined, it’s clear to see that Duke Ming’s plan will be successful.” Chiu Lan added, “The way Duke Ming jumped up was very impressive.”

Feng Ming exhaled a long breath, “I still can’t convey the same majestic, confident demeanor of Rong Tian. Ah, I’m afraid that this image of a tiger will turn into a puppy. Actually, the moment I made the decision, my hands were shaking and my back was filled with cold sweat.” He wiped his forehead that was also covered in cold sweat.

CY: I’ll help wipe it for you, Duke Ming. If Duke Ming is afraid, then you shouldn’t worry yourself with this matter. I know the prisoner is pitiful, but Duke Ming is more important. Now you’ve become a pitiful Duke Ming, thinking about how to save people. This magic trick... We have accepted His Majesty’s order to look after Duke Ming, hoping that, while Duke Ming is on the road, the less he involves himself on the matter the better. And yet Duke Ming got himself involved in this.

CX: This matter will be over in the afternoon, why are you still mentioning it? When Duke Ming said that he will use magic, weren’t you the one who clapped and yelled that it was exciting?

CY: It is exciting, but it’s still scary when the time comes. Can’t I just advise him a bit?

 FM: Alright, alright. I’m still perfusing cold sweat, please don’t argue anymore. Either way, what Chiu Yue said is right. This matter is both exciting and scary at the same time, it gives me a very exhilarated feeling.

CL: Actually, I was hoping to persuade Duke Ming out of it. The seven nation trip has just started and we still don’t know how much more is ahead of us. Anything that isn’t related to us, it would be best to not be involved.

FM: Ah, now I’m confused after listening to you. The three of you just said that saving an innocent person is a good thing and then later said not to get involved, that there’s no need to stir things up. Can all of you give me an affirmable opinion?

Before he finished, the three maids had already revealed distressed expressions. With a sigh, they blurted out, “We are also very troubled! We don’t want to see an innocent person suffering and hope that Duke Ming can be safe without having to worry about outside matters. Is this also wrong of us?”

All three maids began telling Feng Ming how they hated it when he thinks about others first and forget about how he’s putting himself in danger while doing it.

Feng Ming admitted that he was wrong, but they kept whining and crying so he looked over at Rong Hu for help. However, Rong Hu didn’t know what to do, so Feng Ming glanced over at Luo Yun, “Why don’t Luo Yun express his thoughts about this?”

Luo Yun was sitting to one side holding his sword across his chest, leaning against the wall with his eyes closed. He opened his eyes impatiently and glanced at Feng Ming as he coldly stated, “If you’re afraid then don’t get involved. If you’re already involved, then don’t be afraid. Young Lord is both afraid and involved, which is very puzzling to others.”

Feng Ming wrung his hands, feeling depressed, he said, “Even though I’m afraid, I have to intervene.”

Luo Yun scornfully asked, “Why?”

FM: Because avoiding is not the method. Only when one encounters something he is afraid of will he be able to gain courage.

Luo Yun’s eyes suddenly s.h.i.+ned, he slowly turned around and stared at Feng Ming. Feng Ming changed his expression from earlier and was now grinning at him, “These words I said, are they right?”

LY: They are not wrong.

 Feng Ming smiled even more brightly, then asked in a friendly manner, “I hope my words can change your att.i.tude towards me, so can you not be cold as ice anymore? You know, ever since we were together night and day, you always have a sullen face towards me, giving me so much pressure.”

“I can’t.” Luo Yun lazily stood up, “I’m only a subordinate not worth mentioning, so Young Lord doesn’t need to waste such thoughts on me. I would like to go out for some sunlight, and will return shortly.”

Without waiting for Feng Ming’s reply, he carried his sword and walked straight outside.

Feng Ming stared as his back slowly disappeared. Feng Ming began scratching his head and said in agony, “How come my words usually make an impact on people, but he only gives me a gloomy face? Am I really a failure as a Young Lord?”

CY: Duke Ming shouldn’t worry about it. He was born with that gloomy stiff face and won’t be able to smile. It has nothing to do with Duke Ming.

CX: Why does Duke Ming want Luo Yun to have a different att.i.tude towards you? This person, if compared to a rock, is even more stubborn. He is not the type of person to make amends.

CL: Ah, Duke Ming needs to make amends. If in the future we are to enter the Tong Kingdom, it’s like heading to enemy territory, a place filled with danger. Therefore, before we head there, we have to first resolve our internal conflict so the people of Xiao family’s highly skilled swordsmen will give their respect to Duke Ming and faithfully protect him. Otherwise, there will be a repet.i.tion of the events that occurred on the s.h.i.+p on the first day. A family confronted by two sides is not the way it should be.

CX: Chiu Lan is amazing, I can’t imagine it.

CY: Those things that she just said must be from listening to Rong Hu, I don’t believe that she thought of it.

FM: I’m this tired and you are all bickering, not thinking of a way to help me. Anyway...it wasn’t because of the Xiao Family’s henchmen that I wanted to please him...

“Then what is it for?”

FM: It’s just because I feel that there’s some sort of closeness between him and I...

 The three maids looked at each other. Closeness between Luo Yun and him? Duke Ming’s view about others seems to be of no improvement.

Rong Hu asked if Feng Ming is alright and Feng Ming replied that he tried very hard to come up with an impressive speech for Luo Yan, but yet it didn’t have any effect on him. He then asked Rong Hu where he just went.

RH: Ah, I went to see Luo Deng. The upcoming execution, no matter if it’s successful or not, the Xiao family have to pretend we have nothing to do with it. Our s.h.i.+p must leave Fan Cheng’s sh.o.r.e before the scheduled time of execution and continue heading forward.

FM: (nodded his head) You are still the attentive one. Tell Luo Deng to set sail to leave. It seems I won’t be able to see this magic trick of mine.

RH: We can bring the s.h.i.+p forward and stop up ahead, then use a smaller boat to bring you back to Fan Cheng, sneak you into the crowd observing the execution. However, this relates to Duke Ming’s safety. Leaving the large s.h.i.+p and sneaking into a huge crowd of people is very dangerous. This matter still needs to go over with the Xiao Family’s men who are protecting you. If they don’t agree, I’m afraid leaving the s.h.i.+p will be a bit difficult.

Feng Ming shrugged, then turned towards Chiu Xing as he reluctantly chuckled, “See, now do you understand why I need to be on friendly terms with Luo Yun? It seems that everywhere I go now, I have to consult with him.”

CY: But he is Duke Ming’s subordinate, how can that be? If Duke Ming wants to go somewhere, then just go. I’ll go talk to him.

Chiu Yue pulled up her skirt, stood up, and then disappeared off.

A short moment later, Chiu Yue triumphantly returned and announced, “Luo Yun said he has no objections. If Duke Ming wants to go see it, he’s only responsible in protecting you as long as Duke Ming doesn’t cause any trouble while observing the lively event.”

Feng Ming was extremely pleased, he wanted to show his grat.i.tude to Chiu Yue, but his feet suddenly jolted, a surprised movement coming from underneath him.

RH: The s.h.i.+p is leaving sh.o.r.e. Wait until we head forward to a place without people and then we’ll sneak back to Fan Cheng.

========

Leaving Fen Chang port, Le Ting un.o.btrusively rode his horse slowly towards the sandy road heading south. After riding for half a mile and leaving the busy port of Fan Cheng, the

 pa.s.sersby reduced in number. He was about to pull out his whip to hasten his trip back to his estate and make the final preparations, when he noticed something was amiss.

Two seemingly ordinary carriages dashed in front of him. In addition, there were six guards riding horses beside the carriages. The two carriages were side by side and the line of guards conveniently blocked the road ahead. Everyone’s sullen eyes were staring silently at Le Ting and they approached him.

Needless to say, these people were here for him. Could things have changed?

Feeling unnerved, Le Ting slowed down his pace. Pretending that sand got caught in his eyes, he raised his hand and rubbed his eyes as he took the opportunity to survey the situation behind him.

The two people riding behind him also got closer. In fact, both sides got closer, pus.h.i.+ng Le Ting, one person on one horse, into the middle. He could only pull the reins to his horse to a halt, and coldly shout out, “The world is filled with large roads, no one is without an alternative route. Who is so arrogant that even this road cannot be traveled? Or do you intend to rob others instead?”

At this moment, both sides came to a stop. There was a moment of silence in the carriage before a pleasant male voice asked, “May I ask if you are General Le Ting?”

Because Le Ting was in a secret meeting with Feng Ming, before leaving his estate, he had changed his attire and disguised himself. The clothes on him were civilian clothes and he deliberately placed a beard on his face and wore a large black hat. He didn’t expect anyone to recognize him. Le Ting was surprised, he tried to find a way to escape while asking, “Who are you?”

The person in the carriage laughed, “If you want to know who I am, I request the General to enter the carriage.”

Le Ting looked around in all directions. If it was under normal circ.u.mstances, he would have brought a group of bodyguards; thus, he wouldn’t have to worry about these people. Unfortunately, today was a secret mission, which compelled him to travel unaccompanied. Right now, it’s hard for his hands to counter the enemies’ four fists. In a very desolated place, if he were attacked, his rotten corpse might not even be discovered. Wouldn’t dying be useless?

Le Ting looked left and right, he could no longer stall for time, therefore he could only temporarily improvise. After dismounting, several tall men were staring at him as if eyeing a prey. They immediately took the sword hanging at his waist and searched his body. When no other weapons were found, they finally lifted the curtain and allowed him to enter the carriage.

 Le Ting was so upset he clenched his teeth, and angrily stepped inside the carriage. When he lifted his head, he was completely shocked. Sitting inside the carriage was a young man of only 19 or 20, a handsome appearance with an intense deep gaze. His clothing was quite normal. There was a small square table in front of him, covered with several dishes of food. Although there was nothing special about the food, the plates holding the food were of pale green, an extremely rare material.

Le Ting knew that at this moment he should not back out. Looking coldly across at the young lad who was sitting leisurely, he said, “How dare you! Kidnapping a General is a capital offense, are you aware of this?”

The person in the carriage was Xiao Liu. He was in his early twenties, but his appearance was similar to Lie Er. He has already matured, yet still looked like a young lad. However, compared to Lie Er, Xiao Liu seemed more indifferent. After meeting up with Rong Tian, and under Rong Tian’s instructions, he raced towards Fan Cheng. He wanted to stay there for a bit in order to figure out a way to save Tai Can’s brother­in­law, hoping that Tai Can will avoid implication and the Third Prince Yong Cheng’s power won’t be further weakened. He never imagined that coming to Fan Cheng, he would hear news that Le Ting ordered to execute the prisoner today.

Xiao Liu was very surprised. Le Ting had always a.s.sumed a position of impartiality, and even if execution is inevitable, he shouldn’t be t hat eager to execute Tai Can’s brother­in­law. He didn’t expect someone who maintained neutrality to side with Prince Yong Quan. Without any other options, he could only send his men to secretly spy on Le Ting’s estate and, once Le Ting was alone, capture him.

Because the circ.u.mstance was too sudden, even with the person captured, what should he do? He still haven’t figured out a plan. Although he was inwardly worried, Xiao Liu seemed calm on the surface. After listening to Le Ting, he gave a faint smile. “Kidnapping a General? I don’t have the guts to do so. Xiao Liu was ordered to come here. I just wanted to request General to come inside the carriage and ask a few questions. That can’t be seen as kidnapping.”

“Oh? On behalf of whose order?”

“Please have a look, General.” Xiao Liu untied the token hanging on his waist and gave it to Le Ting. He had been secretly lurking beside Yong Quan, working within Prince Yong Quan’s estate, so the token he pulled out was naturally from Yong Quan’s estate.

After Le Ting’s eyes fell upon it, his face almost changed color and he whispered, “The Crown Prince’s estate?”

 “That’s correct.” Xiao Liu smiled, comfortably leaning himself against the velvet walls of the carriage compartment. “Fan Cheng has recently encountered many things. His Highness, Yong Quan, ordered me to come here to a.s.sist.” He clearly was making this up. After meeting with Rong Tian, he didn’t have time to return to the capital to receive any orders from Yong Quan. Thinking that saving a person takes priority, Xiao Liu wanted to hand over the token, rescue the prisoner and then explain to Yong Quan.

He just simply wanted to say something that wouldn’t make Le Ting suspicious of him. However, he didn’t expect to scare Le Ting into dripping cold sweat.

After hearing that he is one of Yong Quan’s men, Le Ting felt a sudden chill down his spine. This was indeed meeting a ghost at night. He never imagined Yong Quan would care so much about the small city official post at Fan Cheng’s port, that he would dispatch his henchmen here. Not only was this time different, they didn’t just discreetly observe the execution’s progress, but installed countermeasures as well.

Could it be...could it be that they have already figured out Feng Ming’s magic trick of bringing a dead person to life?! Thinking about this, the cold sweat continued to flow. If this is discovered, the prisoner and Tai Can will undoubtedly die. Even he, Le Ting, had no chance of escaping. For him to die is nothing, but his wife and the three concubines, along with his children inside his residence will not be spared. If Yong Quan dealt with his brothers without mercy, then a meagre General like him is nothing.

Inside the narrow compartment, the more Le Ting thought about it, the more anxious he got. Duke Ming’s plan was extremely clever, and yet before it even began, without the slightest hint or exposure, how did the Crown Prince find out about it? If the people of Yong Quan did not receive the news, then why are they deliberately stopping him here?

Le Ting had been an official for many years, had he been fooled by the court? He was worried inside, but his face did not reveal the slightest change. Still keeping the same composure, he said, “So it’s Mister Liu from the Crown Prince’s estate. The capital is quite distant and Mister Liu has been traveling hard, not caring for the trouble to come here. Is there something you would like to inform me?”

“This matter is regarding the wine brewer called Chao An.”

“So it’s regarding that.” Le Ting carefully re­examined his words as he slowly replied, “Then, Mister Liu, please report back to His Highness, Yong Quan, that this matter has been properly taken care of. The prisoner will be sentenced today, and I will be the one to personally supervise the execution. There will not be a single problem.”

 Xiao Liu was having a headache because of Chao An’s execution today. If that’s the case, then he cannot fulfill Rong Tian’s task. Furrowing his eyebrows, he said, “Isn’t General a bit impatient in handling this case?”

“What?” Le Ting eyed Xiao Liu suspiciously.

From Yong Quan’s point of view, his people are upset that Chao An couldn’t be killed earlier so that they could implicate Tai Can. Unless... they already knew about the plan later today. If that’s the case, then the lives of those people involved will be at stake.

Le Ting’s heart suddenly tightened, he could barely maintain his calm when he asked, “Mister Liu, why do you say that I’m handling this case in a haste? This prisoner has given the King a barrel of sour Youzhi wine, going against the King’s orders, and is extremely disrespectful. His death sentence is long overdue. Didn’t His Highness, Yong Quan, send a letter urging for the sentencing to be carried out as soon as possible and without further delay? I am only acting on the instructions provided by His Highness.”

This remark by Le Ting was reasonable. Thinking for the sake of Yong Quan, pledging his allegiance with him, made Xiao Liu speechless.

How could Xiao Liu not know that Yong Quan had been eyeing the city official post at Fan Cheng’s port? Right now, he was acting as a representative of the Crown Prince’s faction so how can he reveal his true intentions for coming here?

Xiao Liu glanced over at Le Ting and was upset that he couldn’t just kick the famous General of Yong Yin in front of him. What kind of righteous General is this? Bulls.h.i.+t, he’s just like those bootlickers!

It seems Le Ting was just pretending to take a neutral stance, when in fact, he was afraid of Yong Quan’s power. Figures, he disregard shame and win Yong Quan’s approval by using Tai Can’s brother­in­law’s case to suck up to Crown Prince Yong Quan. And the most despicable thing was, Xiao Liu had to compliment this d.a.m.n man for disregarding a human life.

“General is truly very loyal to His Highness, Yong Quan.” Xiao Liu clenched his teeth as he forced himself to smile, “You seem to be working very hard. I will have to announce this to His Highness in the future. However, what I said about General handling this matter hastily is justified. You should know that the Cai Family have been city officials in Fan Cheng for many generations, executing a family member can wait a few more days. Handling this case quickly might evoke criticism by others. This matter might not be good for His Highness’ reputation.”

After listening, Le Ting secretly let out a sigh of relief.

 So this stunt of seizing him, in the middle of the road, and forcing him into the carriage was because of this and here he thought this person had realised something was amiss with this afternoon’s execution. Le Ting was less worried and a bit calmer. Motioning with his hand and giving off a righteous look, he said, “Regarding this matter, Prince Yong Quan can rest a.s.sured. This case has been delayed for a long time, and now is the best time to take care of it. No matter the evidence or the process of execution, everything is in full accordance with the law of Yong Yin. No one can criticize Prince Yong Quan about this matter.”

Xiao Liu replied, “His Highness Yong Quan only hopes that this case can be postponed for a few more days.”

If it were a few days ago, Le Ting would be extremely happy and nodded in agreement. He also didn’t want to execute an innocent person. However, the magic trick Duke Ming is orchestrating is ready to be implemented. The secret compartment underneath the execution ground had also been dug up in advance and if this cannot be carried out today, then traces of evidence will be present.

Thinking about this, Le Ting responded adamantly, “The announcement was carried out three days ago, everyone knows that today will be the execution day. If it is suddenly postponed, it will arouse criticism from the people. Mister Liu, please understand that I am doing this for the sake of His Highness Yong Quan. The sooner this matter is settled, the more favorable it is for his excellency.”

Le Ting continued mentioning that this matter was for the sake of Yong Quan. Xiao Liu was so angry he stared wide eyed at Le Ting for he could not find any other reason to stop him. If he continued to dissuade him, it will only cause Le Ting to be more suspicious of him.

It was hard enough for Xiao Liu to hide his ident.i.ty inside Yong Quan’s estate, yet to expose himself because of this trivial matter was not worth it. Given the situation, had been someone else, then that person would have given up and not pursue the matter further. Xiao Liu may appear simple, but he was far more than ordinary. He held himself in high self­esteem.

It’s been a long time since he met Rong Tian and after meeting Rong Tian, he accepted this task. Even though this task was not important, he made a promise to His Majesty. He had to complete it no matter what.

During a moment of hesitation, a bold plan emerged from inside his mind like a lightning bolt. The fact that Le Ting was captured without anyone’s knowledge and the men Xiao Liu brought with him were elite guards and loyal to him, his endeavours today will not be exposed. Why not just get rid of Le Ting without anyone knowing?!

Then when noon comes, without the appearance of the execution supervisor, the prisoner cannot be executed. If Tai Can’s brother­in­law is not officially put to death, then Tai Can

 won’t be implicated because of this case. At the very least, before the court sends another new General, the city official post at Fan Cheng’s port will not be replaced.

Xiao Liu thought for a moment in silence, he secretly glanced over at Le Ting, carefully calculating his next move. The innocent wine brewer who got dragged into this political battle of the two princes had no quarrel with this person, yet right now, this person has no regard for a human life, for he wish to kill the wine brewer to gain Yong Quan’s approval. So why not just kill this completely insane and ridiculous person?

Thinking about it, Xiao Liu’s eyes flashed with murderous intent, his lips curved upward into a gentle arc as he methodical answered, “What General just said is correct. It seems that I was overly worried. Since that’s the case, please return to your estate. I’ll leave the wine brewer, Chao An’s case in your hands.”

How could Le Ting guess what was going on inside Xiao Liu’s mind? It’s hard to blame him. No matter how much he thinks about it, he could not imagine that Xiao Liu was Rong Tian’s spy. Everything Le Ting said and done was in favor of Yong Quan. It was obvious that Xiao Liu will have to release him.

After listening to Xiao Liu, Le Ting did not suspect a thing. “That would be best. Noon will come quickly and I have to hurry to the execution ground. I hope Mister Liu will report the matter back to His Highness Yong Quan for me. I’ll take my leave.” After bidding Xiao Liu farewell, he turned around and got out of the carriage.

As his feet landed on the ground, behind him, a wailing sound was suddenly heard from inside the carriage. Le Ting didn’t have time to react when several confidants of Xiao Liu gathered around the carriage with a grim look on their faces and charging straight at him. Caught unawares, Le Ting received a strike to his nose and was suddenly dizzy. He was taken aback. With the skills he gained on the battlefields, he retreated in panic, raising his arm to fend off another strike, while the other hand was searching along his waist. But he couldn’t feel anything. By then, he realized his sword was confiscated before entering the carriage. With this second of hesitation, he suffered several blows to his back, it was so painful that he wanted to curl up on the floor. Feeling afraid and mad, he shouted, “What do you guys want?!”

His mind quickly raced back. For them to take action ruthlessly must mean that they were aware of Duke Ming’s plan! Otherwise, why would the people of Crown Prince do this?

It was upsetting that he didn’t know how they managed to figure it out. What’s worst is that Duke Ming and Tai Can were unaware of this. If they act according to the plan, then they too might fall into this trap. No! No matter what, he had to let them know that he is being captured by the Crown Prince’s henchmen!

 Thinking about this, regardless of the attacks coming from behind, Le Ting immediately fought his way forward, pus.h.i.+ng the two brawny men aside and shouting loudly from top of his lungs, “Murderer! Murderer! I am Yong Yin General Le....” Before he could finish, he was knocked out hard and his body collapsed onto the soft yellow mud on the ground.

The curtain of the carriage was lifted. “How’s the situation?”

“Reporting to Young Master, he’s lost consciousness.” One of Xiao Liu’s subordinate used his foot to check for movement, but there was none. He let out a laugh. “Just now, this person tried to shout for help. Haha, this place is covered in sand, not a single spirit can hear him shouting.”

The other man asked, “Young Master, do you want to kill him?” He removed the short dagger from his waist. They were all a.s.sailants, accustomed to killing people without batting an eye. All of them were not afraid of death. With just one word from Xiao Liu, slitting the throat of a General was no different than killing a chicken.

Xiao Liu was planning on nodding his head, but then remembered something, he asked, “You have closely followed him from his estate, where did he go?”

“This person was sneaking into Fan Cheng’s port, we"re not sure where he went because he disappeared in a blink of an eye. We almost thought that he found out we were following him and cut off our trail. Half an hour later, we found him along the large road in Fan Cheng’s port.”

Fan Cheng’s port? According to the news, the large s.h.i.+p of Xiao Family carrying Duke Ming stopped by the port of Fan Cheng? Could it be.... When thinking about this, Xiao Liu was horrified. He stared down at the unconscious Le Ting lying on the ground. Could this vicious person really want to kill Duke Ming to please Yong Quan?

The thought made sense. Pus.h.i.+ng a wine brewer to his death was not a big deal for Yong Quan. But if he were to kill Duke Ming, the one who Xi Lei King Rong Tian loves the most, then the present King in Xi Lei, Rong Tong, would be very grateful to Yong Quan. It would be a huge achievement. Huh! How hateful!

Xiao Liu stared ferociously at the motionless Le Ting. He was planning on killing him, but hesitated. He ordered coldly, “Tie him up for now, remember to gag him. Once the matter regarding Tai Can is resolved, I would like to interrogate and torture him a bit. Concerning today’s event, no matter who ask you, do not reveal a single thing, understand?”

His henchmen responded with a roar of compliance.

 Chapter 2

Feng Ming changed his clothes then slipped into the crowd with Rong Hu on his left and Luo Yun on his right.

The Youzi wine becoming sour as it leaves Fan Cheng is a fact that everyone knows. This case regarding Chao An is a crime pushed onto the innocent. Today, when the prisoner gets executed, nine out of ten people in Fan Cheng will rush forth to see the boisterous event held at the city gate.

“What a shame...”

“Ah, I heard he offended the Prince.”

“Quiet! You don’t want to live? Lower your voice.”

The afternoon hasn’t arrived, yet everyone was whispering non­stop along the sideline.

“How are they going to live? An honest man being executed. What a pity, he has an aging mother.”

“That’s right, what a pity, his wife is also pregnant.”

Feng Ming squirmed his way into the crowd, but judging by Rong Hu and Luo Yun’s trifled look, he knew he had reached the closest point to the execution ground.

The execution ground contained a wooden platform about two feet high with large stairs, rows of chairs were placed below and a table spread with satin cloth; which appears to be the seating for the execution supervisor and other officials. In the middle of the platform was the place where the execution will be held, a thick wooden stump ­ the place where the prisoner will kneel down, and place his head onto before beheading.

Feng Ming knew that the wooden stump wouldn’t be necessary for this plan of theirs. No matter how impressive Feng Ming’s ability was, he was not able to reconnect a person’s head back to the original form. Regarding magic, he only watched it on television. Therefore, whether this plan is successful or not, will depend on everyone’s performance and if the Heaven is willing to help out....

 Chao An’s wife and mother were sobbing beside the execution ground. Crying alongside with them was Tai Can, pretending to be “ill.”

“Sister...sister... please don’t cry. You’re still pregnant. This is the law, we have no other way, if you want to take a look...” Not sure what kind of powder coating Tai Can placed on his face, but his face was white as a ghost. Crying with tears and snot all over his face, his sobbing was even louder than his sister’s, “It’s all because of me, I shouldn’t have let you choose this marriage. This is not a good marriage and now you’ll become a widow. What a pity for my nephew who hasn’t been born yet...”

Feng Ming knew that he was acting, but he could not help but stare wide mouthed at Tai Can’s realistic acting.

“Duke Ming, the prisoner is here.” Rong Hu’s voice whispered against his ear.

Feng Ming stretched his neck up to look. Indeed, there were a group of people coming from the city gate, walking towards the execution grounds. They were wearing the regular soldier outfit, armed with a long spear. There was only one person wearing a prisoner uniform, emaciated, his hands were tied behind his back, staggering while walking in the middle as if his soul was scant.

“He’s here! He’s here!”

“About to be beheaded?”

When they saw the prisoner, the crowd made a slight commotion. Feng Ming was wondering why Le Ting isn’t here yet. Rong Hu felt something was wrong, believing that Le Ting should have arrived here much earlier.

They both tried to rationalize that Le Ting must have been slightly delayed. However, Luo Yun felt differently, stating, “Something happened.”

Hearing him say it with much conviction, Feng Ming felt nervous, his face went pale and he tried to force a laughter.

“That can’t be? Our plan...was so perfect.”

Rong Hu wasn’t pleased with Luo Yun scaring Feng Ming. Glaring at him, he asked, “How do you know something happened?”

“This is a killer’s instinct.” Luo Yun answered, ignoring Rong Hu’s glare, he turned his head to face Feng Ming, “Didn’t Young Lord said ‘to face your fears to build courage’? Your chance has come.”

 Feng Ming was already tense enough. After listening to him, he became more uneasy, and he stammered; “What I meant was...was...oh G.o.d, if our plan is leaked and the Yong Yin army were to jump out and surround us, we only have twenty guards. We might really become twenty shredded pieces of meat.”

Feng Ming wasn’t very good at converging his inner thoughts. With his handsome appearance, thick eyebrows and blinking eyes, his pitiful look after being scared was too adorable.

Luo Yun never expected that his words would scare Feng Ming like that. He was both amused and upset. Sweeping his eyes to look at him once more and using an insensitive tone of voice, he said, “If it’s leaked then it’s leaked. The Xiao Family is unafraid of anyone. If someone dares to hurt you, they will have to walk past my dead body.” Although his expression was cold, his intention of protecting Feng Ming were clearly conveyed in his words.

Feng Ming was deeply moved. He grabbed Luo Yun’s hand tightly, revealing a bright smile. “Thank you.”

Surprised, Luo Yun looked down in disgust at the hand Feng Ming was holding. He tried to struggle free but couldn’t. This place was filled with many people so he didn’t dare to use much force that would cause unwanted attention to them. He gave up on struggling, feeling embarra.s.sed while letting Feng Ming to continue hold his hand.

Just then, Rong Hu suddenly said, “He’s here!”

Sure enough, a carriage came from the other side of the gate, surrounded by several guards, made its way towards the execution ground. Le Ting held the highest position within the area. He made the announcement that he will be there personally at noon to convict the prisoner according to the laws of Yong Yin. During the time of execution, horse carriages were not allowed near the execution ground. Everyone was aware of this.

The curtains to the carriage lifted and the dignified person stepped out. However, the image of the person that appeared was not Le Ting, whom they had been looking forward to, but instead a young man Feng Ming had never seen before.

Feng Ming was shocked, he thought that he didn’t see clearly so he quickly rubbed his eyes. After taking a closer look, his face went pale, his heart dropped. It wasn’t Le Ting at all. Could Luo Yun’s words be true, something happened....

“The Prince sent an envoy! Pay your respects!”

 Feng Ming was still shocked wondering where Le Ting could be. If it wasn’t for Luo Yun, pulling him down to kneel along with the others, Feng Ming would have stood out from the crowd, inadvertently putting himself in danger.

As the crowd was ordered to stand up, Feng Ming followed along. There were no news about Le Ting and yet an envoy from the Crown Prince arrived. This was something they were all afraid of.

Tai Can, who was sobbing on the sideline, noticed that something wasn’t right. His mouth was wide open and his eyes dilated bigger than a pair of bells, a horrid look on his face displayed after seeing the unknown Crown Prince’s envoy.

The crowd below were whispering to each other, wondering why the Crown Prince’s envoy was here.

Luo Yun knew that the situation had changed and could result in extreme danger. He advised Feng Ming to make a quick decision regarding this unexpected change in events.

Feng Ming was at a loss for words. He didn’t know what to do and blamed himself for not thinking everything thoroughly. If Rong Hu, Luo Yun, Tai Can and Le Ting were to meet with misfortune then it will be his fault. What kind of magic trick is this? Great, with all the preparations, the execution supervisor went missing. This lousy magic trick is the worst one ever!

“This Crown Prince’s envoy is really strange.” Rong Hu was muttering beside him.

“I know that he’s strange, but this isn’t the time to pursue that.” Feng Ming whispered, “Right now, the important thing is...what should we do? G.o.d, if that envoy takes charge of the execution, do we really have to s.n.a.t.c.h the prisoner? Ah, I...it’s all my...”

“This person is clearly Xiao Liu.” Rong Hu stared at the Crown Prince’s envoy who was standing on the platform. Xiao Liu was skinnier than before so with one glance, he couldn’t recognize him. Two years of not meeting, it seems that he was sent by His Majesty to Yong Yin.

Feng Ming thought Rong Hu said something about running off, so he responded, “Run? Where should we run to? No, I came up with his plan, I have to save the prisoner before the execution time. If we were to run away, wouldn’t I be killing an innocent person?”

“Duke Ming, that person is Xiao Liu.”

 FM: What? Rong Hu, you know that person? Can you think of a way to resolve this matter? Money is not a problem, didn’t Lie Er said that Yong Yin officials love bribery?

RH: He is originally one of us.

FM: What? One of us....He.. he.. he...this Crown Prince’s envoy... Say it one more time?

RH: He was sent by His Majesty as a spy within Yong Yin.

Feng Ming stared at Rong Hu several times, after determining that Rong Hu was not joking, he let out a huge sigh of relief.

FM: One of us?

RH: That’s correct.

FM: One of us?

RH: Hush, Duke Ming. Please don’t raise your voice, it will arouse attention. FM: That’s right...one of us...m y dear G.o.d (for crying out loud!)

Feng Ming silently thank that his magic trick was still supported by the Heaven.

He tilted his head and filled with emotions, he glanced over at Rong Hu. He didn’t know whether to hug Rong Hu or give him a good kick. Unfortunately with the present circ.u.mstances, he couldn’t do any of these two actions. The only thing Feng Ming could do was to clench his teeth in dissatisfaction, “Why didn’t you say so earlier, do you want to scare your Royal Highness to death?”

RH: I just knew about it.

LY: What should we do now?

FM: Whew, it turned out to be a false alarm. The next course is to follow our plan. Rest a.s.sured, if he is one of us, he will help us complete this plan. Ha, I didn’t expect Rong Tian to be so amazing, this is very good.

LY: I still don’t see how this Crown Prince’s envoy will help with completing our plan. FM: Hah?

LY: I don’t think he knows what our plan is.

 FM: Hah?

This can’t be! Could this p.a.w.n be placed randomly because of Rong Tian? He wasn’t ordered here to kill Chao An, was he?

They’re finished....

The moment Feng Ming was shouting “They’re finished,” Rong Hu decisively went to the edge of the execution ground, grabbed the panicky Tai Can and whispered in his eyes, “Quickly run up on the platform towards the Crown Prince’s envoy, cry to him and then...”

============

On the execution platform, Xiao Liu was also upset. When Le Ting was knocked out unconscious, he wasn’t planning on making his appearance. However, after thinking about it, he felt a bit uneasy. The execution notice was announced, so if the main execution supervisor was not present, there will still be a deputy execution supervisor. And if that person were to put out the order to kill Chao An, then his hard work would go to waste. To ensure that such things won’t happen, he had to personally take a trip to come here.

“Master Liu, please drink some tea.”

Le Ting was the major General to execute the prisoner, therefore, officials from top to bottom within Fan Cheng came to attend. However, Le Ting unexpectedly disappeared; and the envoy of the Crown Prince who came had an even higher position than Le Ting. After serving the tea, they showered him with flattering words.

“Haha, the weather is very sunny, Master Liu didn’t mind traveling tirelessly from miles away, you are very loyal to the court.”

“I’ve heard...Master Liu is a man of principle and righteousness and highly respected by Prince Yong Quan...”

Xiao Liu forced a smile. Cutting short their sentences, he glanced around and then asked, “How come I don’t see the Execution Supervisor General Le Ting?”

“This...” The deputy supervisor for Le Ting was silently muttering to himself that he too didn’t know where General Le Ting was, but while looking up at the colorful sky, he replied, “The General is probably ridden with a bunch of matters entangling him, he will arrive shortly.”

 Xiao Liu secretly sneered. Your general is currently tied up like a pastry, placed underneath the seat within my horse carriage, perhaps he’ll never be able to arrive here at all.

There was one official who told Xiao Liu that if General Le Ting doesn’t arrive, then Xiao Liu could always use his t.i.tle as the Crown Prince’s envoy to execute the prisoner. Xiao Liu knew this official pledge his loyalty to Prince Yong Quan and was disgusted by it, but he kept on a poker face.

XL: We absolutely cannot do that. His Highness is kind, benevolent and abides by the law. If you want the person from Crown Prince’s estate to be in charge of this execution just because the main execution supervisor is not here, then if this rumor were to spread in the future, wouldn’t this tarnish His Highness’s reputation?

Xiao Liu knew that if an hour pa.s.sed and Le Ting still hadn’t shown up for the scheduled time frame, then according to the law, the prisoner will be sent back to prison. So right now, he had to endure all the flattery and sweet talk by the other officials for an hour.

During this time of extreme impatience, a sudden cry rang out.

“He’s innocent! He’s innocent!” Tai Can burst into tears while he was crawling and scrambling onto the execution platform. “Official, please re­examine the case! My brother­in­law is innocent! My sister is currently pregnant, a future widow and a fatherless child, what will happen? Please...please have mercy...”

Despite having a large chubby physique, his actions were surprisingly swift. Before anyone could react, Tai Can had already clung onto Xiao Liu’s leg and started crying. If he was a normal person, then he would"ve been dragged out by the guards. However, no matter what type of person Tai Can was, he was an official in Fan Cheng for several years. Since the guards knew that he was an official, they didn’t dare to take action. As for the other officials who were sitting on the platform, they shook their heads and half­heartedly said, “Brother Tai, please quickly stand up, if you need to say something please say it slowly, everyone else is staring.”

“Brother Tai, I can understand your sadness, but regarding your brother­in­law’s matter, the law is ruthless.”

“Let’s talk about it slowly, Brother Tai and quickly let go, this person is the Crown Prince’s envoy...”

Xiao Liu’s leg was held tightly that he couldn’t move. He was overly embarra.s.sed, but felt a bit sympathetic towards Tai Can. He wanted to tell Tai Can that he came here to save the prisoner, but since he couldn’t clearly state it, he placed a stone face and said, “Who are you? Being so rude towards me? What do you mean innocent? General Le Ting gave the

 conviction according to the law, are you saying that he is doing this because of personal interest? What nonsense! Quickly let go!” While bending over, he tried to push away the hands that were grabbing onto his leg.

Tai Can was waiting for this opportunity. Seeing him stooping down, he immediately whispered into Xiao Liu’s ear like a lightning bolt, “Rong Hu requests that you meet up with him.”

Xiao Liu was surprised that this person knew his ident.i.ty and even Rong Hu. While wondering what Rong Hu had to do with this matter, Tai Can added that Duke Ming was also standing within the audience. The other officials who were standing to the side were afraid that Xiao Liu would be angry so they rushed over to pull him off. After being dragged off the platform, Tai Can wiped his tears and comforted his sister.

Xiao Liu was shocked, but he eventually swept his eyes over the people below the platform and saw Rong Hu. Noticing that Xiao Liu had seen him, Rong Hu made a gesture, which Xiao Liu silently understood.

XL: Is there... any place to let loose*? (*restroom)

The officials started laughing, “Are you in a hurry? The city gates have a place which is fairly clean, allow me to show you the way.”

XL: No need. This matter does not need many people to follow along.

After asking for the direction, Xiao Liu brought two of his guards to follow behind. Once he came to the city gate and made a turn into a quiet place, Rong Hu was already waiting right there for him.

RH: I know that you have many things to ask me and I have many things to ask you, but right now there is something important to do and we’re running out of time. First off, take this paper.

Xiao Liu took the sheet of paper, glanced over it quickly and asked, “What is this?”

RH: Duke Ming is determined to save Chao An’s life. This is the rescue plan that our team decided to act out. Luckily, Duke Ming is clever enough to bring this just in case. Just follow the plan that is written, you have to remember your lines. Be careful, don’t miss a single word.

XL: What?

RH: We have no other choice. Originally, we discussed the plan with Le Ting and would perform it during the execution, but we didn’t expect him to suddenly disappear. Right now,

 sending someone to find him will be too late, therefore, you will have to replace him. Just take some time to memorize these lines, then head up to the platform and be a subst.i.tute for Le Ting. Using your position, you have all the qualification to take charge of the execution on Le Ting’s behalf. Xiao Liu, this role is very important, whether or not Chao An can be saved depends on this moment, alright? Why do you have a weird look on your face?

XL: Uh, Rong Hu...

RH: If you have something to say, let’s talk about it later. If noontime is over, Duke Ming’s plan would become a waste. The most important thing right now is for you to memorize your lines, we don’t have much time...I know we have to bother for your a.s.sistance this time.

XL: Did you just said that this plan was discussed with Le Ting?

RH: Yes, it was. At the critical moment, no one knows where Le Ting had run off to, if he... XL: I know.

RH: ... could come here on time, then it would be great...Ah? What did you just say?

XL: I said, I know where Le Ting is.

RH: You do? That’s great! That’s great! Where is he? How long until he arrives here?

XL: He’s in my horse carriage.

RH: Your horse carriage? What is he doing on your horse carriage?

XL: Actually, he’s tied up and stuffed beneath the seat of my carriage.

====

Those who were not involved with the plan wouldn’t know that even though the execution this time was ordinary, there were a lot of chaos within. After knowing where Le Ting was, Rong Hu used his fastest and most agile speed to report the news to Feng Ming and then with the same speed, rushed over to the back of Xiao Liu’s carriage and rescue Le Ting, pulling out the smelly rag from his mouth and pouring a bowl of water on him. He then gave two heavy slaps to his face, thus finally waking Le Ting from his unconscious state.

RH: The Crown Prince’s envoy is a good person, because of his righteousness, he came to help us, which is also part of this magic trick. Here...anyway...let’s follow through with the plan.

 After explaining the current situation to Le Ting in the most simplest words, they decided to continue with the plan Feng Ming had implemented. As for the groggy general, he was brought inconspicuously to the remote area of the city gate without anyone noticing, and there he climbed onto a horse.

In a short while, before noontime came to an end, General Le Ting who had gone missing, suddenly appeared around the corner of the gates, as if he had experienced a long arduous journey, answering the eagerness cry of the people.

“Look! Look!”

“The General is here!”

“That’s right! General Le Ting is finally here!” “Oh! The prisoner may really die this time!”

When Le Ting appeared, a sudden burst of noise was heard from the top and above the platform. Tai Can thought that their plan of bringing a dead person to life was exposed, silently glancing at Le Ting riding towards the execution platform, dismounting his horse, and being escorted by his guards onto the platform, did Tai Can remember what his responsibilities are. He quickly rushed forward and started crying loudly.

On top of the platform, General Le Ting who just arrived became the focus of attention. “Where did the General go off to?”

“Reporting to the General, Master Liu of the Crown Prince’s estate has been waiting for a long time...”

“Aiya, what is wrong with the General’s face? You’re bleeding!”

Coming face to face with the polite and courteous words of his fellow officials after being knocked out unconsciously and reawaken afterwards, Le Ting was a bit overwhelmed. Hearing someone mentioning his face, he unnaturally snorted, the corner of his eyes swept over towards Xiao Liu who was sitting innocently to one side. Le Ting could only reply, “This morning, I was riding out of my estate, then that crazy animal suddenly attacked me for no apparent reason, causing me to injure myself.”

“Ah...so it was a horse...” The officials answered in abrupt astonishment.

O f c o u r s e , n o o n e h a d t h e g u t s t o a s k L e T i n g : i  f h e h a d f a l l e n o f f t h e h o r s e , t h e n w h y d o e s h e have two hand imprints on his face?

 Xiao Liu almost burst out laughing on the sideline, but he couldn’t expose himself so he could only quench his thirst with a cup of tea. Those who did see Xiao Liu’s slight smile, secretly confirmed that the Crown Prince wanted Chao An to die and since Le Ting is present, the chances of that happening is most likely, which correlates with the reason for Xiao Liu’s smile.

The deputy official asked, “Time"s running out, does General still wish to execute the prisoner?”

“Of course!” Apart from saying anything else, Le Ting immediately nodded. If this matter is further delayed for a few more days, then this magic trick can"t go on and he will be pressured again!

“Guards! Bring the prisoner onto the platform!”

A loud noise could be heard on the platform. The close family members of the prisoner were crying on the side. A loud commotion was also heard from the audience below.

They’re killing someone! It seems as if this pitiful Chao An will be unjustly killed today!

Feng Ming pushed his way through the crowd. He was s.h.i.+vering in excitement, so emotional that he was tearing up. This plan that Duke Ming had meticulously orchestrated, the first and greatest magic trick of this generation, bringing a dead person to life, is finally, finally, beginning after going through all sorts of difficulties and encountering all kinds of twists and turns....

Chapter 3

“Reporting to the General, the prisoner is here!”

Chao An, wearing a tattered prison uniform was brought on the execution platform by two guards. An extra chair was then prepared for Xiao Liu to sit next to Le Ting, seemingly becoming the third execution supervisor on the scene...

The show has finally begun!

Le Ting regained his composure and stared at Chao An, who was trembling and coiled up in front of him. Le Ting displayed a demeanor of a General and shouted out imposingly;

 “Prisoner, lift your head and address your name!”

“My...name...is....Chao An...”

Kneeling down, Chao An muttered a few words as he continued to shake in fright. What is he supposed to do? Yesterday, Tai Can came to visit him in the prison, secretly informing him of many things and repeatedly reinforcing him to follow through with the plan today. No matter how much Tai Can rea.s.sured him that this is planned by the world’s famous, intelligent, Duke Ming­­ the one that would save his life; but honestly, this was the boldest plan he had ever heard of and no one has dared to use it before. If the plan is unsuccessful then he, Chao An, will undoubtedly die today...

Life and death is a huge matter. While thinking about this, wouldn’t anyone’s voice also tremble in fear?

LT: Chao An, you have disrespected the royalty by offering sour wine to His Majesty as a tribute. This crime is worthy of a million deaths. I am here today with an order to execute you. Is there anything you would like to say?

“I....I...”

Chao An’s hands started trembling while grasping tightly onto the wooden block on the platform.

The audience witnessing the scene from below knew that he was innocent. Everyone looked at him with sympathetic eyes.

Then a soft broken mutter was heard from Chao An. “I’m...I’m accused...unjustly....”

“How dare you!” Le Ting shouted out sharply, widening his eyes. “We have conclusive evidence of your crime! The wine you offered to His Majesty was sour and yet, you dare to say you were accused unjustly? You’re a guilty prisoner, why shouldn’t we kill you? I am asking once again. Before you die, are there any last words you would like to say?”

Feng Ming was standing in the crowd listening to their conversation. He was filled with overwhelming emotions as if his hands and feet were dancing delightfully.

So perfect! So perfect!

 Tai Can’s performance was already outstanding and worthy of praises. He also couldn’t have imagined that Le Ting’s performance would be very convincing. His shout a while ago was on spot, given how quick the skit was written up.

He had antic.i.p.ated this for some time now, but suddenly something felt wrong, why did it became quiet? According to the original plan, Chao An should’ve followed behind, and spoke the most important lines within the skit!

Feng Ming looked up onto the stage. He wasn’t the only one looking, in fact, all eyes were trained on Chao An.

“Chao An, do you have anything to say?” Le Ting lifted his eyebrows, slightly feeling that something wasn’t right.

He cleared his throat, “I am currently asking you, why aren’t you answering?”

Please quickly say the following lines of the skit!

Chao An was still kneeling on the stage with his face dropped down that no one could clearly see it. One of the guards went over to him and lifted his head up. After taking a clear look on his face, he suddenly exclaimed, “Ah! He’s gone crazy!”

Chao An stared blankly while foaming at the mouth. A loud commotion was then heard from the audience.

“Crazy! He went crazy!”

“What a pity! He’s scared to death. Becoming crazy is good, better than being completely conscious while being beheaded...”

The situation had changed drastically. A short while ago, Feng Ming was excited and now he was stiff. C razy? Foaming at the mouth, is he having a seizure?

Oh G.o.d! This idiot Tai Can, why didn’t he tell me about Chao An’s illness, having a panic attack after being strongly evoked?

They’re finished.

The protagonist suddenly lost all ability to perform, how can this impressive supernatural trick continue?

This time, it’s really the end...

 On the sideline, Tai Can was shocked that his brother in law’s illness started again. The deputy supervisor suggested to Le Ting that since the prisoner had became crazy, there was no point in questioning him anymore, so they should just execute him now given the fact that the execution hour has pa.s.sed and Xiao Liu is present.

Le Ting was silently upset. W hy is it like this? Chao An couldn’t wait until later to start having a seizure and yet chose this very moment to do it. At least finish up your lines and then start having one! Causing me so much effort to rescue you.

LT: This...Let’s wait for a little bit. Before executing someone, we always allow the prisoners to have a few words according to the court law. Um...this...also shows that the law is merciful...

Seeing how Le Ting was stuttering, the deputy supervisor was greatly puzzled. Why is General Le Ting acting like this today? He almost missed the execution time after disappearing. Then he arrived here disheveled with two hand prints on his face, and now he is speaking incoherently. He wasn’t injured badly that his brain became screwed, did he? He has been in the sun for a long time now and didn’t want to continue. This prisoner will die sooner or later, so why should they waste time?

The deputy supervisor tried to persuade Xiao Liu to side with him, but Xiao Liu just replied that he’s only here to watch from the sidelines and General Le Ting is the one making the decision.

After a short while, Chao An finally stopped convulsing and recovered his consciousness; however, his body became weak and needed the guards to support him up.

Le Ting asked Chao An again if he had any words to say. Chao An only gasped heavily the words “I...I” and went silent again.

Feng Ming pushed his way to the front, just enough to see Chao An’s face, but even though his seizure stopped, his eyes stared blankly as if he forgotten his lines.

Le Ting tried hard to ask one last time, wiping the sweat off his forehead. If he asked once more, even a fool would know that something weird was going on.

“General, the prisoner doesn’t have anything else to say. It’s clear that he’s admitted his crime. I think, it is best if we...”

“He’s innocent! He’s innocent! I have something to say!” A shrill voice of a female interrupted him. Everyone looked towards the direction of the sound, in which, Chao An’s wife who have been crying endlessly on the side, stood up and rushed towards the execution platform. She kneeled down beside her husband and cried out, “General, my husband is innocent, I request the General to seek the truth behind this! He was wrongly accused, he was wrongly accused!”

 Although she was six months pregnant, her hair unkempt and in ragged clothes, her eyes were boiling red with a surge of anger when she lifted her head. The guards on both sides wanted to drag her down, but her ferocious stare kept them from doing so.

“General, if you kill my innocent husband today, then G.o.d will have mercy and will most definitely make you repay with your life!”

“What audacity! Ignorant woman!” Earlier, Le Ting didn’t know how to continue, but luckily Chao An’s wife had resolved this matter. “This person has committed a grave crime and needs to be punished! How is he wrongly accused? You, you, you...you even dared to curse me? If it wasn’t because you’re pregnant, I would have strictly punished you. Guards! Drag this woman off the platform for me!”

The guards followed through with the order. As for Feng Ming, he thought that the plan failed, but didn’t expect that Chao An’s wife would jump out and speak on her husband’s behalf.

“Le Ting! If you kill an innocent person, you will not be able to die peacefully! If my husband dies wrongfully today, and his blood spilled on the very grounds of Fan Cheng city, grievances will be heard throughout heaven, then one day, you will have to pay in blood!”

Once the words were spoken, everyone in the audience were startled. Executing prisoners is common, but not being afraid of death and cursing the execution supervisors were something unheard of.

Feng Ming almost jumped in joy because that was the most important key lines within the skit, and now Chao An’s wife had finally said them.

Le Ting waited for a long time to hear these lines, he was so moved that tears almost fell out, however this isn’t the time to cry, but to immediately put on an extremely shocked and yet ma.s.sive rage.

“How dare you! You...you dare to make a vicious curse like this? Do you think that just because of your death threat I would be intimidated and would not execute Chao An?” Le Ting paused for a bit, displaying a hesitant expression. Looking over at the deputy supervisor in an uneasy manner and whispered, “This...how should we deal with this?” Le Ting hopes that his action will not cause any suspicion towards his official.

The deputy supervisor was even more uneasy so how can he even have the thought of wondering whether Le Ting was tricking him or not. This woman is terribly frightening to use the death of a prisoner to curse the execution supervisors. The most frightening thing is that this case is unjust, so if Chao An dies, then...

 The majority of the people in this world believes that a blood curse involving the blood of the dead is the most vicious curse ever. This type of curse, even Kings who are blessed by G.o.d would be afraid, not to mention ordinary people. Thinking that he too is an execution supervisor, cold sweat started running down his body, “This....this...this...”

He hesitated for a long time before answering, “General, do you think... that we should postpone this execution?”

LT: No. the prisoner should be put to death according to the law. We are Yong Yin officials, how can we spare him for the fear of a curse? If we do this, then the loved ones of every prisoner will start cursing and we’ll just spare them too?

That line was something Feng Ming had pondered word per word to write out, so that Chao An can be rescued in a mysterious way in which no one knows. Words that would make everyone believe that Le Ting had no sympathy for Chao An.

“But...but...that woman’s curse, I’m afraid...this case is really...”

“General.” One of Le Ting’s bodyguards who was standing behind, suddenly stepped forward and whispered, “Your subordinate has a method that can execute the prisoner while not being afraid of the curse.”

“Oh? What method?”

“That curse only says that the prisoner has to spill blood onto the grounds of Fan Cheng so that his grievances can be heard by heaven.” This guard was also part of Feng Ming’s plan. He had already memorized his lines, but because of the sudden change in the situation, he almost thought he wouldn’t have the chance to perform his act. However, since it’s his turn to perform, he revealed an eerie smile and said, “General, you just need to prevent the prisoner’s blood from splattering the earth, then you can escape the curse.”

Before Le Ting could answer, the frightened deputy supervisor quickly ran forward and nodded his head, “That’s great, this is a great idea. Which is...” He frowned, “But what is the method in which the prisoner’s blood won’t splatter the earth?”

Le Ting was so elated, that he secretly applauded. The lines that he needed to say was spoken for him by another person. Having an unwitty a.s.sistant like this deputy supervisor made the effect more realistic.

“This is quite easy.” The guard thought for a moment before replying, “We’ll put him inside the box, place the box up. That way his feet won’t touch the ground, his head won’t face the sky.”

 “But wouldn’t his blood be dripping onto the ground? Or do we need to pick up all his blood? When we behead him, wouldn’t his blood spill, unless there’s no blood...”

“Ha ha, this is even more simple. We won’t behead him, we’ll just burn him alive.”

The deputy supervisor’s eyes lit up, “That’s right! Burn him alive! Ha ha, this method is wonderful!” Thinking that he was the one responsible in completing the execution and didn’t have to worry about the curse, he got carried away for a long while before remembering that he was only the deputy supervisor and there was the main supervisor on the side. He quickly converged his delighted expression and carefully consulted with Le Ting, “What does General think...”

“Ah, this method is not bad.” Le Ting gave his opinion and then tilted his head, looking over at Xiao Liu, “How about Master Liu...”

Xiao Liu gave Le Ting and his bodyguard a cold glance regarding their dirty trick that left this poor deputy supervisor confused. He was silently laughing inside as he said, “It’s the same thing I said earlier, General is the one making the decision here, I will not intervene.”

“That’s great.” Le Ting raised his voice and ordered, “Guards!” “Yes!”

“Prepare the woods immediately and build a wooden box that can fit a person. Remember to drench the inside and outside with oil, so that burning it up will be of great pleasure!”

The guards went and built a wooden box, then drenched it in oil in front of all the viewers. There were several clever people who have guessed what the box was used for. They gasped in a cold breath of air. General Le actually wants to burn the prisoner alive?

Once the wooden box was prepared, Le Ting ordered the guards to pour oil onto the prisoner’s body given the reason that his blood will burn quicker. He also told them to cover the prisoner’s mouth so that he won’t be able to make any more curses.

The deputy supervisor tells Le Ting that the prisoner is frightened to the point that he can’t speak, so if they should cover someone’s mouth, it should be the wife’s mouth instead.

Le Ting ordered the guards to cover both Chao An and his wife’s mouths. The original plan was to cover Chao An’s mouth because he made the curse. The reason for this was because, if there was no sound emitted from the box while it was ignited, wouldn’t that provoke suspicion?

 In order for the plan to be implemented successfully, Le Ting had to follow along so nothing appeared suspicious. Once the wooden box was completed, Chao An was placed inside.

The deputy supervisor hoped that the curse will be lifted soon, so he whispered, “General, we need to quickly hang this box up and burn it.”

“No hurry.” Le Ting lightly replied, “Tell them to nail down the box tightly.”

In fact, the box cannot be hung immediately. The plan had proceeded to the most critical step, whether the person is alive or dead depends on this moment.

Thanks to the sound of the hammering of nails, it was able to cover up the noise of their henchmen who were hiding beneath the platform, opening the box from below and rescuing Chao An from the inside, and then stuff a similar physique and same clothed body as Chao An inside the box. After that, the bottom of the wooden box will then have to be nailed back in place. Otherwise, when the wooden box is hung up, there will be a large hole, then wouldn’t it become the biggest joke?

Right now, it’s best to drag out the time as long as possible. “Ah...General, is the nailing almost done?”

“Let’s nail it down for a bit more, it still looks loose.”

“.....”

“General, look...it should be done now, right? They’ve nailed it for quite a long time...”

“If we do not nail it down tightly, the prisoner might struggle, breaking it and fall out of the box. If the blood splattered onto the ground, wouldn’t you be afraid of the curse?”

“This...this...”

“Be patient, once it’s nailed down securely, it would be for the sake of both of us.”

After nailing for nearly half an hour, the guards soaked in sweat finally received the order by Le Ting to hang the box up.

Once the box was hanged up for everyone to see clearly, the box was lit up, and then engulfed by a large fireball. There was also a loud sound coming from inside the box as if someone was struggling inside.

 Witnessing the raging fire above the execution ground, a few faint­hearted people already fainted. In fact, they were the relatives of the prisoner; Tai Can, his sister, and the mother of Chao An nonetheless. From the moment the box was ignited, they “fainted in grief.”

Originally, Xiao Liu leisurely watched the play, but after hearing movements from inside the box, he was shocked. Could it be that he was burned alive? If not, then why would there be movement inside the box? He glanced over at Le Ting, but Le Ting didn’t have a change in expression, nor horror on his face.

Soon, the box was burned about 80%. The bottom of the box couldn’t continue supporting itself and cracked opened a big hole, a large black dusky object fell straight through, hitting the execution stage as sparks flew in all directions. Needless to say, that was the prisoner’s body, burnt to the point of unrecognition. The audience screamed, some hid in fright. Even the officials on the platform couldn’t bear to watch as they quickly covered themselves with their sleeves.

Le Ting looked at the corpse, the tension in his mind can finally be relaxed. He stood up, facing the pale looking faces of the official and smiled, “The prisoner is finally executed, the curse is also lifted, hurry back home, bathe and have a nice dinner.” Le Ting laughed, clapped his hands, strutted down the steps, mounted his horse and rode off with his bodyguards.

The audience who had watched the horrible death, shook their heads and dispersed. Luo Yun and Rong Hu, one left and one right, with Feng Ming tucked in the middle, carried him away from the execution ground. Behind them, twenty highly skilled henchmen disguised as commoners distributed themselves around the three. They immediately headed to a remote location where their small boats were, rowing back to the large s.h.i.+p.

Chiu Lan was so anxious, after seeing them, she rushed to greet them on deck and kept asking, “So how was it? Was he rescued? Was the magic trick a success?”

“Duke Ming, how come you’re not saying anything?” “Was it a failure?”

“Aiya, Duke Ming, what is with that face? Duke Ming, don’t scare us, hurry and say something!”

“Duke Ming, you have done everything you could, if Chao An couldn’t be rescued, you shouldn’t keep it inside.”

“If you have come back safely, that’s already a good thing...”

 Feng Ming stood foolishly for a long time, his hands slowly forming a fist, glancing at the three maids at once, he whispered, “I realized something.”

“Duke Ming, what is it that you realized?”

“I realized,” Feng Ming whispered once more and glanced at each of them, his mouth widened forming an extremely bright smile, and excitedly roared, “That I have an amazing potential of a Great Magician! Not just that, but the most Amazing Talented Magician in the entire world! Ha ha ha, I am the Greatest Magician ever!”

He was so carried away that he gave Chiu Lan a pa.s.sionate hug and continued laughing, “I have never saw any magic trick as exciting as this. Chiu Lan, it’s a pity that the three of you didn’t get to see it. Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing, don’t be too sad, let Duke Ming, I, give you all a kiss to comfort you...”

Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing screamed out as they started running, blus.h.i.+ng in embarra.s.sment and scolded Feng Ming, “Duke Ming is so ecstatic that he has gone mad. Chaotically hugging people, aren’t you afraid that His Majesty will punish you?”

“Heaven blessed.” Chiu Lan was praying while reciting a few lines, thanking the heaven above, “Duke Ming has save an innocent man, G.o.d, please remember the good deeds our Duke Ming has done and bless him with good fortune, not encountering disaster along the way....”

Chapter 4

Late that evening, Tai Can, Chao An, his wife and mother arrived at Feng Ming’s s.h.i.+p to give their thanks to Feng Ming and the others for saving Chao An’s life.

Le Ting also arrived and told them that despite being in the battlefield for years, this was the most exciting he ever had and partic.i.p.ated in. He also asked them if Xiao Liu would come here to join them. Rong Hu replied that since Xiao Liu had agreed to come then he would undoubtedly come.

While waiting, they had some dishes prepared by Chiu Lan. Tai Can and Le Ting praised her cooking. During the celebration, Feng Ming tried to refuse drinking wine, but was pressured into drinking.

 Feng Ming then ordered for some entertainment for his guests. However, before the entertainment began, they heard a heavenly melody from a flute that made everyone mesmerized. They learned that the sound was within the s.h.i.+p’s vicinity however they were unable to identify where and whom was playing the flute. Soon the sound drifted off further away.

After hearing the music, they all felt that the dancing and music entertainment on the s.h.i.+p couldn’t compare to the flute melody they heard earlier.

As it was getting late into the night, Xiao Liu still hadn’t appeared and Chao An’s wife, along with the others were getting restless. Feng Ming told them they can leave without having to wait for Xiao Liu. Hearing that, Tai Can was relieved since he had been worrying that if they continued waiting into the night, the boat rower they hired to send them off wouldn’t wait for them.

After Tai Can and his family bid their farewells, Le Ting also decided to take his leave, hoping that he didn’t make his guards wait too long. Learning from his previous lesson, he brought along several bodyguards to avoid traveling alone again and repeating the same incident that happened with Xiao Liu.

Even after everyone left, Feng Ming and the others still hadn’t seen Xiao Liu.

Chapter 5

After sending his guests off, Feng Ming felt tired and began yawning.

CL: Duke Ming, you drank quite a lot tonight, please have a rest.

FM: Isn’t it because of you? I also want to rest, but didn’t Xiao Liu say he’ll come?

RH: Let me wait for Xiao Liu. Even if he did come, he’ll just have a friendly chat with everyone. Unfortunately, his status as an envoy does not allow him to easily make his presence known. If Duke Ming wishes to see him once more, then I will wake Duke Ming after he arrives. Will that be alright?

Feng Ming nodded in reply like a young chick pecking food. The maids all helped put Feng Ming into bed. It was Luo Yun’s turn to stand guard so he stood next to the bed with his arms wrapped around his sword. Feng Ming quickly fell into a sound slumber, dreaming about Rong Tian and how the two of them were embracing, staring at each other while laughing. While dreaming, Feng Ming suddenly heard a faint tune. As he concentrated harder into

 listening, he realized that that melody was the same one he heard at the banquet that night. The sound woke both Feng Ming and Luo Yun. Feng Ming quickly sat up and got dressed.

Chiu Yue rushed in and shouted out, “Duke Ming, hurry and look, that flute player is currently on the river. I finally spotted him!” After finis.h.i.+ng, she pulled Feng Ming outside, ignoring whether or not Luo Yun approves.

A group of people ran out onto the deck, looking outward towards the river, sure enough, not far from the s.h.i.+p was a small boat floating on top of the river. There was no boatman, only a slender das.h.i.+ng figure with his back to the crowd, playing the flute while standing.

The sky was beginning to light up into a misty gray around them, the fog enveloping the river below created a mysterious aura around the person, but it still gave a hint of familiar intimacy.

After finis.h.i.+ng up the tune, that flute player slowly turned his head, his eyes filled with joy and curiosity looked upward and rested on Feng Ming’s s.h.i.+p.

“I know that I shouldn’t disturb your beautiful dream, but the scenery of the morning sunrise is so beautiful. If Duke Ming were to miss it, wouldn’t it be a shame?”

His thin lips curled up forming a bright, warm smile.

Feng Ming saw clearly who that person was, he was overjoyed that he laughed and shouted out, “No wonder women of the world are all mesmerized by Young Master Du Feng. Your romantic aura is incomparable. Ah, the sunrise is beautiful. Unfortunately, I am not an ordinary young lady who is easily seduced by you.”

Feng Ming put on a serious face, a.s.suming that it was indeed a very serious expression, “I still remember the first time we met. When you lied to me, giving me a fake name, something like...Mu Sa. Ha ha, if you don’t come up here and chat with me as an apology, then I won’t forgive you.”

Du Feng couldn’t guess that Feng Ming would have that kind of reaction. Slightly surprised, he revealed a more carefree smile as he chuckled and sighed, “Since you"ve said that then I have no other options except to climb aboard.” Inserting the flute to his waist belt, he rowed the boat near the s.h.i.+p and proudly boarded it.

Once on the s.h.i.+p, before he could reach Feng Ming, Du Feng was surrounded by five or six of Xiao’s bodyguards.

Feng Ming knew how fierce they could be so he quickly shouted out, “I want him to board the s.h.i.+p! He is Du Feng of Bei Qi! Hey, hey, he’s the “Reluctant King,” haven’t you all heard of him?”

 A cold voice traveled into his ears, “Who cares who he is, even if the R eal King is here we still need to search him, not to mention one who is a fake?”

Without turning around, everyone knew the one talking was Luo Yun, standing beside them.

Among the Xiao Bodyguards, only Luo Yun’s voice holds much importance. They searched Du Feng thoroughly from top to bottom and then reported, “Only a flute, no weapons found.”

Feng Ming silently thought, as long as Luo Yun is here, making new friends will be difficult, yet he didn’t want to scold him. He could only turn to Du Feng and apologize for the inconvenience, “Young Master Du Feng, please don’t be angry, this is just...uh..haha..necessary formalities...”

“It’s just little things, no need to mention. Duke Ming is of n.o.ble status so it’s better to be more careful.” Du Feng’s face was as usual, still smiling with a gentle warm tone, he then added, “I have many friends around the world, though this is the first time I’ve been surrounded and searched by many.”

Feng Ming was extremely embarra.s.sed, he had to change the subject, pretending to be surprised, he asked, “Is it true that during that day when you accompanied Yan Ting Prince at the Palace of Li Kingdom, Ruo Yan didn’t have you searched?”

Du Feng knew Feng Ming wanted to change the topic. Not wanting Feng Ming to be embarra.s.sed anymore, he gently smiled and explained, “Why would Ruo Yan want to search me? He was expecting me to carry along weapons into the palace just so he had an excuse to kill. However, weapons are evil objects, and it’s not my nature to carry them along. All of my friends know this.”

Feng Ming let out an “oh” sound, as if he had realized something. He glanced over at Luo Yun for a bit, silently thinking, ‘L earn something, not just carrying a weapon all day and killing people is a good thing. Without conflict we can still earn the hearts of the people. Without weapons, one can still succeed in battles, which is a real talent. No wonder the princess of Zhao Bei is infatuated over him, even not wis.h.i.+ng to become queen.’ Full of admiration, Feng Ming submissively said, “Please come inside, have some tea while we chat.”

Du Feng agreed and everyone immediately entered the main cabin.

Chiu Yue was left behind for she was standing to one side and muttering to herself. When Chiu Lan asked her, Chiu Yue replied that the Heaven had granted her wish of seeing “The Reluctant King” again. Chiu Lan was curious as to when she had that wish and told her it would be more useful to wish for a good husband or to stay forever beautiful. Chiu Yue said she wished for those as well.

 When asked how many wishes Chiu Yue prayed for, Chiu Yue replied that she couldn’t remember, maybe..one hundred. After hearing that, Chiu Lan placed both hands together and muttered to the Heavens to forgive Chiu Yue, not to punish her for she had a moment of weakness...

  ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆

Once everyone settled down inside the room, Chiu Xing personally served the tea. Du Feng received the hot cup of tea offered by her with both hands. He smiled and thanked her, while looking at her with his painted eyes, her face suddenly flushed red to the tip of her ears. Once the cup left her hands, she quickly ran off. Even Feng Ming was amused.

FM: I’ve heard of your reputation.

DF: Is it “The Reluctant King?”

Feng Ming nodded his head, “Not bad, “The Reluctant King” is an interesting name.”

“Is it really an interesting name?” Du Feng sighed loudly, “Does Duke Ming know what the end result to this story is?”

Feng Ming never thought of this, he was slightly surprised and asked, “What is the ending?”

Recalling the memories was something Du Feng wasn’t happy about, after a moment of silence, he finally answered, “The Princess’s name was Chang Liu, a pa.s.sionate beautiful woman. After writing a letter of rejection to the Tong Kingdom Prince’s request for hand in marriage, her father, Zhao Bei King was upset and confined her. Her mother tried persuading her to accept the marriage, but Chang Liu would not agree.”

CL: Could it be that Zhao Bei Princess is still locked up by her father?

Du Feng shook his head. Seeing him shake his head, the two maids, Chiu Lan and Chiu Yue were relieved, “So she was released?”

Du Feng revealed an hesitant smile and continued, “Marriage between royalties has always been the method of maintaining monarchy. How can Zhao Bei King refuse Tong King’s request for a political marriage with good intentions? He imprisoned Chang Liu, but could not find any method for her to agree to the marriage. Therefore, Zhao Bei King decided to have his second Princess, Jin Liu sent over to Tong Kingdom.”

 It seems the story did not end there....

“However, Princess Jin Liu and her older sister were alike, they both had someone they liked...”

Seeing how Chiu Lan and Chiu Yue’s eyes had rested on him, Du Feng explained, “The person Jin Liu loved was someone else, it wasn’t me. I heard it was a young guard of humble status within Zhao Bei.”

The two maids let out a light “oh” as their suspicion was lifted.

Not just them, even Feng Ming was very doubtful.

“Jin Liu knew that her father wanted to send her to Tong Kingdom, but would rather die than obey. Zhao Bei King understood his daughter well so he ordered a minister to lure the young guard onto a boat, tied his hands and feet and threw him into the river to drown.”

Before he finished, three gasping sounds interrupted him, all harboring a sense of shock. The two sounds came from Chiu Yue and Chiu Lan who were standing behind Feng Ming, the third one came from behind the curtains. It was in fact Chiu Xing who didn’t wander far and was hiding behind the curtains, eavesdropping on the conversation.

Feng Ming was also shocked inside, but seeing his maids’ reaction to this tragedy, he decided it would be best for them to not hear more or else they’ll start crying, “Please bring something to eat over here.”

Chiu Yue was extremely concerned about Zhao Bei Princess who suffered and in a trembling voice she asked, “So what happened next?”

Hearing Feng Ming order the maids to grab food, Du Feng knew what Feng Ming had in mind, he didn’t reply, only stared at Feng Ming.

This person was very observant and had the ability to understand people at one glance. Feng Ming secretly praised him, but since Chiu Yue opened up to ask, even if he were to ask them to leave, they would be bickering among themselves. Letting out a sigh, he glanced over at Du Feng, “Please continue, I would also like to know what happened to that Princess.”

====

After a moment, Chiu Xing came out from behind the curtains and sat next to Chiu Yue, silently listening along.

 Du Feng continued, “ The King of Zhao Bei thought that after killing the person his daughter loved, she would no longer have any hope and would peacefully become Tong Kingdom’s Crown Princess. But he was wrong. Princess Jin Liu learned about the matter and that night...she committed suicide.”

The audience had already guessed what had happened, but hearing Du Feng say it aloud, their hearts trembled uneasily inside.

“After his daughter’s death, Zhao Bei King was not only depressed, he was very heartbroken. The news of Zhao Bei King agreeing to the marriage proposal from Tong Kingdom had been sent out, but after the Second Princess’s death, who will take her place? Without no other choice, he decided to send his third daughter Princess Su Liu to Tong Kingdom.”

“Ah?” "Ah?" "Ah?"

Once Du Feng mentioned a Third Princess, everyone was in shock. For the situation to come this far was beyond everyone’s guesses. The tragedy was pitiful enough, does the story need to make another person suffer as well?

Feng Ming finally understood why mentioning “The Reluctant King,” made Du Feng show such a sad expression.

Chiu Yue bit her lips and said, “Is Zhao Bei King the real father of these three princesses? Even though women are not worthy, they shouldn’t be forced to suffer like this!”

“So did that little Princess go to Tong Kingdom?” The question Chiu Lan asked was more practical to the matter.

“No.” Du Feng chuckled bittersweetly, “Zhao Bei King only have three princesses, the second one had died, there was the eldest who refused the marriage and the youngest who was not even 13. The Third Princess was young and timid. Hearing that she will be sent far away, she cried night and day. Her cries were heard throughout the palace of Zhao Bei and eventually spread to the ears of Princess Chang Liu who was imprisoned.”

“Ah?” Chiu Yue softly sighed, feeling suspicious, she didn’t want to believe, “Then...Princess Chang Liu...”

“She accepted the marriage and is now the Crown Princess of Tong Kingdom.”

 After saying that line, the whole room went silent. No one knew what to say.

“Clear breeze gently pa.s.sing by the self­injured branch, crying all her tears and yet still longs for that someone, refusing your kindness as a consort, for I still wish for the Reluctant King, my beloved Du.” (Note: Breeze = Feng, Branch = Liu, Du = surname)

Du Feng slowly crooned, “The Reluctant King, does he really need to be the Reluctant King?” He sighed looking up at Feng Ming, “Does Duke Ming now understand the meaning behind the words The Reluctant King, and what they mean to me?”

Feng Ming felt greatly ashamed, he placed his hands together to apologize, “You’re right, I’m wrong, I hope you don’t take offense.”

Du Feng released a faint laughter before falling silent.

Chiu Yue asked, “But why didn’t you...rescue the Princess and took her out of there? ...You and the Princess...how could you be willing to just...”

“How did you know that I didn’t go to Zhao Bei?” Chiu Yue’s eyes lit up, “You did? Then...?”

DF: Since I’ve been to Zhao Bei, I have several friends there. After receiving the news, I’ve used all sorts of method to enter Zhao Bei Palace and find Chang Liu. I was planning on bringing her faraway.

CL: Were you discovered by Zhao Bei King?

DF: If I was, then I would have already been dead...

“Then...?”

DF: I saw Chang Liu and I wanted to rescue her, but she asked me a question.

“What’s the question?”

DF: She asked me, you can rescue me, but can you also rescue my little sister along with all the other n.o.ble ladies in Zhao Bei who can be sent to Tong Kingdom?”

This memory have been relived in his mind a thousand times, once it was spoken out loud, the helplessness and grief of Princess Chang Liu were portrayed vividly. Feng Ming was listening from one side and after hearing those words, his chest felt as if it was pressed with a heavy stone.

 They looked at Du Feng wanting to comfort him with a few words, but not even a single word was spoken. Anything said was useless. After a moment of silence, Chiu Xing suddenly gasped, she stood up and softly said, “The tea is cold, let me change it for another.” She took Du Feng and Feng Ming’s cups and ran off as if escaping the tense atmosphere.

“So, Princess Chang Liu still ends up...accepting marriage to Tong Kingdom?” Chiu Lan whispered.

She didn’t expect Du Feng to answer. The answer to this question was something they all knew. Feng Ming and Rong Tian were most afraid of separating, so after hearing the story, he couldn’t help but compare Du Feng and himself, if Rong Tian and him were to be separated like that, then it would be best to die.

His heart was in pain. Recovering from his emotions, Feng Ming suddenly remembered that he is now a Leader. If he cries, then others would criticize him. Quickly blinking hard and placing the thin layer of wet fog back inside, he tried to express some comforting words, “Things of the past after all has already pa.s.sed. There’s no use in being depressed. Also, our s.h.i.+p is planning on heading to Tong Kingdom, why don’t we...”

Before he could finished, Feng Ming noticed that Du Feng was gently smiling at him, he gave an apologetic expression, paused, and then continued, “Does Master Du want to come along with us to Tong Kingdom? We might even get to see Princess Chang Liu.”

Of course, the premise is that hopefully, the Prince of Tong Kingdom would not take revenge, order his army to slice them into eight to ten pieces.

Du Feng’s lips curved upward, displaying a helpless smile, he sighed and then admitted to Feng Ming, “Meeting Duke Ming seems like we’re already close friends. I wasn’t planning on hiding anything. Originally meeting you at Fan Cheng and then departing, I was planning on heading to Fan Jia to see the current situation. I also know many friends there. Does Duke Ming know why I decided to turn back halfway and deliberately chase after Duke Ming’s s.h.i.+p?”

Feng Ming was surprised for a moment. He thought that Du Feng and him had a destined encounter. It seems that Du Feng intentionally chased after him and maybe last night’s flute playing was also intentional.

But why?

Even though he had been with Rong Tian for quite for some, Feng Ming still could not contain his emotions or receive the same poker face expression like Rong Tian. Encountering a

 situation in which he didn’t quite understand, Feng Ming exposed a cute puzzled face, humbly asking, “Then, what is the reason?”

Luo Yun sternly examined Feng Ming, if this “Young Master Xiao” dares to make a silly stupid action such as scratching his head in front of “outsiders” like Du Feng, then he will definitely use the hilt of his sword to knock Feng Ming’s skull.

Chiu Yue was the most sensitive, at this time she noticed that Luo Yun was shooting sharp and dangerous glances at Feng Ming. She couldn’t help but gave some warning glances at Luo Yun.

Y ou stinky b.a.s.t.a.r.d, you need to display some respect!

Du Feng did not seem to notice the undercurrents that were happening between the others. His eyes were still on Feng Ming, he frankly answered, “Because I’ve received a long letter written by Princess Chang Liu.”

"What?"

“Princess Chang Liu!”

“A personal letter?”

“...!”

CY: Did the princess want you to come pick her up from Tong Kingdom?

CL: Can Young Master Du tell us what Princess Chang Liu wrote in the letter? Actually...this is Princess Chang Liu and your own affairs, we shouldn’t have asked.”

FM: For Princess Chang Liu’s letter, to force you to abandon your plans for Fan Jia and travel back here to chase after me must mean that there’s a relations.h.i.+p between the contents of the letter and me?

DF: There is a huge relations.h.i.+p. FM: Oh?

DF: Chang Liu said she left her homeland, she is alone in a foreign land and usually encounters many depressing situations. She couldn’t sleep, has lost weight and fallen sick.

CL: Sick? Then what should be done?

 DF: From the time I’ve received her letter, I have decided that no matter what she wanted me to do, I will immediately throw away everything, regardless of the consequences to achieve her wish.

CY: Princess Chang Liu told you to pick her up immediately from Tong Kingdom, right?

DF: If this was the case, then it would be much easier. I’ll just be chased by Tong Kingdom, though, I am not afraid of anything. But Chang Liu...she...Chang Liu requested three things from me. The first one, she’s sick, having sleepless nights, haggard to the point of falling ill. She said she doesn’t want to die, at least not now because if she died, her husband might again request Zhao Bei King for a propose marriage to marry her third sister. She doesn’t wish for her sister to suffer the same fate as her, therefore, Chang Liu wants me to search for a medicine to cure her illness.

FM: Mental worries are treated by mental medication. What Princess Chang Liu suffers is anxiety and I believe you are the cure to her worries.

DF: The source of Chang Liu’s illness is because she cannot sleep. What she needs is not me, but the treatment to calm her nerves. That is the reason why I came to see Duke Ming.

FM: Oh please, there is no such medication that can calm the nerves. I see you’re in denial, hurry...ah? What did you say?

This time, Feng Ming heard Du Feng’s last few words, his mouth opened wide, the finger he was just pointing at Du Feng was now pointing at his nose, “Me? I have a medicine that she needs? What kind of miracle pill?”

DF: Only Duke Ming has this object. It is called the “An Shen Stone” just as famous as the Heaven and Earth ring.

FM: An Shen Stone?

Feng Ming repeated the strange name twice, with little impression, he turned to look at Rong Hu, “Ah, have you heard of this thing?”

“Yes.”

“You have? Is it a treasure within the Xiao Family?” “Yes.” Rong Hu gave a simple one word answer. “Bring it here, fast.”

 Compared to Feng Ming’s excitement, Rong Hu did not move an inch, “Duke Ming.” “What is it?”

“ The An Shen Stone is the most famous treasure in the world.”

“Why is that?”

Rong Hu examined Du Feng and replied to Feng Ming, “It’s very expensive.”

Once he said it, he suddenly suffered a very ma.s.sive kick. Turning around, the person who kicked him was Chiu Lan. After kicking Rong Hu, she softly scolded him, “There’s someone who is losing her life and you are thinking about how expensive the treasure is?”

DF: Even though Du Feng is not wealthy, my estate is not lacking in expensive items. When I received the letter, I have sent an order to my subordinate to sell off all my a.s.sets. As long as Duke Ming state the price, I am willing to become bankrupt. It’s just selling off land and a.s.sets take time to exchange to gold and transporting it would take a month’s time. If Duke Ming trusts Du Feng, can I bring An Shen Stone to Tong Kingdom first? After half a month, Du Feng will personally exchange it for gold and silver.

FM: You don’t need to do all that, there’s no need to sell off your land. The purpose of An Shen Stone is to calm the nerves. Having it in my treasure safe would be a shame. A treasure needs to be at a place where its purpose is played out, can it be regarded as a treasure.

Feng Ming turned to Rong Hu and said, “Alright, where exactly is the An Shen Stone?”

Rong Hu understood Feng Ming’s meaning, but thinking about how Feng Ming handles his treasure and wealth worries Rong Hu.

While Rong Hu was silently worrying, he received another kick. Without asking, it must be Chiu Lan. Rong Hu looked up and saw Chiu Lan was pleading to him, frowning, he said, “ The An Shen Stone is a one of a kind treasure in the world, for Duke Ming to easily hand it over to someone like this is not worth it.”

CY: It’s Duke Ming’s stuff, he can give it to whoever he wants.”

“The Xiao family is ostentatiously wealthy, open­minded, generous throughout the world. If Young Lord Xiao wishes to give a few things as gifts, not to mention one, even hundreds, thousands, what is there to considered? If the Young Lord Xiao wishes to give it to that person, then it’s not up to Rong Hu to have a say in it.” That sharp cold tone was Luo Yun.

 He wasn’t one of Rong Tian’s men so he wouldn’t worry about how Rong Tian would manage his military forces in the future. According to him, if Young Lord Xiao still needs to have his subordinate agreement to give things to people then that would be a complete shame.

Chiu Yue did not expect that Luo Yun would speak for them, feeling surprised, she stared at Luo Yun for a bit.

Seeing how embarra.s.sed Feng Ming was, Du Feng felt uneasy, thinking for a moment, he looked up and said, “Well, Duke Ming doesn’t need to give me the An Shen Stone, just let me borrow it. After Chang Liu recovers, I will ask her to return the An Shen Stone immediately to Duke Ming. I will also send gold and silver in exchange, just see it as a “borrowing” incentive for the An Shen Stone. Would that be alright?”

His eyes fell onto Rong Hu. He understood that the only obstacle left in having the An Shen Stone was only Rong Hu.

Hearing this, even Rong Hu had no interest as it seems that everyone is taking Du Feng’s side, especially his beloved wife, Chiu Lan. If he didn’t nod his head today, then Chiu Lan would probably resent him for the next few months. Feng Ming would also lose face if he were to refuse. Looking down, he silently thought, the Xiao Family has thousands of treasures, losing one would not be a huge thing, so why should he let Duke Ming be embarra.s.sed in front of an outsider? Silent for a moment, he replied, “Although I’m responsible for the Xiao Family’s property, but the real owner is still Duke Ming. Whatever Duke Ming says, we’ll follow it.”

FM: Do as I say? Then quickly do as I say. (turning to Du Feng) You don’t need to worry, hurry and tell your subordinates to halt their property selling.

DF: Du Feng cannot just gain without merit, not to mention that An Shen Stone is...

FM: Let’s not talk about An Shen Stone. Just tell me, do you consider me, Feng Ming, as a friend?

Du Feng was surprised, he nodded and smiled, “If I didn’t consider Duke Ming as a friend, I wouldn’t have boarded the s.h.i.+p.”

FM: That’s great! Couples have an item to symbolize their love. Since we are friends, we’ll have an item to symbolize our friends.h.i.+p. An Shen Stone is the item!

After the moment of excitement, Feng Ming suddenly remembered a very important issue, he quickly pulled Rong Hu aside and asked, “Not good, I forgot to ask the location of An Shen Stone. It’s not in a faraway location like in Yan Ting is it? Please tell me it’s currently on the s.h.i.+p.”

 Rong Hu smiled, he didn’t expect Feng Ming to be nervous about this, “Reporting to Duke Ming, An Shen Stone is currently in the treasure cabin of this s.h.i.+p.”

“Really?”

Rong Hu explained, “Has Duke Ming forgotten? Young Lord Xiao has to make several trips through different nations, Luo Deng had prepared everything. All of the precious treasures inside the warehouse were all transported onto the s.h.i.+p so that you can readily use them. An Shen Stone is among them. I have checked the booklet yesterday.”

FM: Hurry and bring it here.

Rong Hu quickly grabbed the item and brought it to Feng Ming’s hands.

FM: There’s nothing special, it’s almost similar to an ordinary stone, just a little bit darker.

CL: When you are not sleeping well, you will know whether it’s useful or not. It’s really a treasure, hold it in your hand and you can feel yourself at ease. I wonder what is the reason for it? Maybe it was taken from a mountain where the G.o.ds live.

FM: But it appears ordinary. (Placing it in Du Feng’s hands) Now this is our friends.h.i.+p item. That’s right, since I gave you something, do you have something for me?

Du Feng stared at his clever and lively expression, looking at him for a moment, he reached into his waist belt and pulled out his jaded flute, “I don’t have anything special on hand, just this flute that has been with me for ten years. It should be enough to qualify as a keepsake.”

Feng Ming, who experienced the beautiful melody by Du Feng now had the opportunity to examine his flute.

This flute was very different from the ordinary green jade color, it was darker, but unlike the ordinary reflective jasper, there was little transparency, strangely enough, it could make anyone feel amazed.

Feng Ming was planning on reaching out to accept it, but someone else was quicker than him and grabbed the flute away. He was stunned, looked up and saw that it was Luo Yun.

As usual, Luo Yun took the flute that played that fairy­like tune and examined it closely. Not only did he flip it around, he even sniffed it and as if not satisfied, he actually extended his tongue and licked the body of the flute.

 Chiu Yue scolded him, “How filthy!” Just when she was about to continue, Rong Hu pulled onto her forearm. “He is testing to see if it’s poisoned.” Rong Hu whispered.

Sure enough after checking the flute from top to bottom, he handed the jade flute to Feng Ming, “It’s good.”

Feng Ming accepted the jade flute, happily held it in his hand without putting it down. He faintly felt the convex carving of the flute, which was a lot different than how he imagined when holding it. Not knowing what the jade is made of, it must be very rare, feeling excited for a bit, he felt something was wrong and turned to Du Feng, “This flute is very precious, and for you to carry it along for many years, how can I take it? No, it’s best if you give me something else.”

After finis.h.i.+ng, he reluctantly handed the jaded flute back.

DF: Then is An Shen Stone not considered precious as well? It’s because the flute is carried beside me that it is considered precious, so why not? (Refusing to accept the jade flute Feng Ming wanted to hand back).

Hearing that it made sense, Feng Ming took back the flute. He really liked the item so much, Feng Ming quickly placed it in his waist belt, putting on a handsome gesture and anxiously asked Du Feng, “What do you think? Does it look alright?”

Du Feng smiled, “It’s like you have worn it for several years. If one did not know, they might mistake you to be a flute master.”

The two of them looked at each other for awhile and then invariably laughed together. Exchanging a keepsake item is considered a major completion. They then sat down and continued to talk.

Chiu Xing slipped out again for their third round of hot tea. Chiu Yue, Chiu Lan, Rong Hu, and Luo Yun sat together with them in the main cabin.

“You just said that Princess Chang Liu has three conditions...” Feng Ming mentioned about the situation earlier and looked at Du Feng. Sure enough, Du Feng’s refreshed face suddenly became slightly downcast.

“An Shen Stone is only one of them, which is the most important. As for the other two...” Just when he was about to continue, he felt a bit embarra.s.sed, unlike the wealthy young master he is, he lightly said, “The second thing she mentioned was, she wants a pot of Wen Lan.”

“Wen Lan?”

 Feng Ming had never heard of such name and just like before, turned to face Rong Hu, who shook his head, replying he also had not heard of such name.

“Wen Lan is an extremely rare orchid, which I heard is not easy to plant. I’m afraid that not many people have seen it in the world.” Du Feng appeared as if thinking about the past, he smiled reluctantly and whispered, “It’s my fault. Why did I mention about this type of flower to her? I’ve told her that she had a sort of aroma similar to Wen Lan. If one were to smell it once, he will not find any other fragrant compare to it. Ever since I met her, all the women in this world were neither beautiful nor as fragrant as she was.”

Chiu Xing felt a bit sad.

DF: Actually, I have never seen Wen Lan and of course, have never smell it as well. The time I saw Chang Liu was when the royalties of Zhao Bei were having a ceremonial prayer to the water G.o.d for good weather. I was invited by a n.o.ble friend in Zhao Bei, from the Aman sh.o.r.e, when I lifted my head, she stood in front of me, quietly staring at the river. I couldn’t help but said those open lies, “Your Highness, do you know you have a special aroma, just like the Wen Lan flowers.”

FM: That...Wen Lan, what does it look like exactly?

Du Feng shook his head, “From the moment I lied, I also wanted to look for a Wen Lan flower to give to Chang Liu, to make up for lying to her. But I traveled across the world and only heard someone say that there is such an orchid like that, but no one have really saw it. Ah, every lie will eventually have a retribution. Chang Liu said within the letter, she is alone in Tong Kingdom and wants a pot of Wen Lan as companion. Even now, how can I bear to tell her that I’ve never seen Wen Lan and don’t know where to find the orchid flowers of her dream?”

This was a really big problem.

Not only did he have a headache, even Feng Ming and the rest had a headache.

Princess Chang Liu was already quite pitiful and for her to receive another blow would be worse. Who would have the heart to tell her that her first encounter with Du Feng was a lie? Even though Du Feng did not intend to hurt her, he saw a beauty and couldn’t help himself with the flattery.

“What about the rest of you? Do you know where it is?”

All of his maids haven’t even heard of it so how would they even know where it was located. Rong Hu thought for a long time, he hesitated a bit before making a suggestion, “If we put up a reward, maybe someone will say something.”

 “That’s right! If someone does have it, we can buy it!” Feng Ming immediately agreed.

Du Feng chucked, “This method I have tried before and all the flowers were fake. Those so­called Wen Lan were all forged with other orchids, or they are from some rare part of the mountain. Because of money, people are willing to do anything.”

“Oh?” Chiu Lan did not understand, “How can you tell if they were fake? If you haven’t seen Wen Lan before, how can you be certain?”

FM: That’s right! If this type of flower is rare, then it’s easy. We’ll just need to find a rare specie of flower with a unique scent and give it to Princess Chang Liu, she hasn’t seen it before either.

Even though this was a little deceptive, but it’s better than to tell her the truth, right? CL: That’s right! Duke Ming is so clever!

When Chiu Lan asked the question, she already had a hidden meaning, but because she didn’t want to directly say anything. Compared to her, Duke Ming was relatively more straightforward.

DF: Although she haven’t seen it before, it is doc.u.mented in books.

Du Feng gave a smile and gazed at Chiu Lan. His eyes, no matter who he focused on were filled with intimacy. Eyes like stars, made everyone’s heart beat heavily, even Chiu Lan, who was a wife, had to scream out in danger, the Reluctant King’s charm is incredibly alluring. Chiu Lan quietly stroked her racing heart and listened closely to Du Feng’s reply.

DF: It’s recorded that when Wen Lan blooms, its flowers are black. Although it’s black, it is extremely beautiful and has a light aroma, just like a beauty’s charm.

Feng Ming and Chiu Yue looked at each other.

Wow, that kind of orchid? Black flowers, yet gorgeous, with a light aroma, even the fact of imagining it is hard and describing it as a beauty’s charm. What kind of book did Du Feng read? It wasn’t wrongly doc.u.mented, was it? They couldn’t help but carefully examine Du Feng suspiciously.

Rong Hu interjected, “About the Wen Lan’s record, I have seen it in a book which did said that. What Young Master Du said is correct. Such records is in “Za Wu Records” and “Xing Shu Shou Collection.”

 Feng Ming shrugged his shoulders.

These two books were very well known and while studying in the palace of Xi Lei, Rong Tian had forced him to read them, which he only read a few pages and yawned. If he had finished reading those books, he would have some knowledge of the Wen Lan flowers and is now regretting that he didn’t.

Since it’s most likely that Princess Chang Liu read those two books, the solution of using fake flowers was no longer valid.

“Ahem.”

Silence.

“Ahem...”

“Luo Yun!” Chiu Yue could not take it anymore, she stared at Luo Yun, who was standing stiffly to one side, “Can you be quiet for awhile?!”

In fact, Luo Yun had been quiet, but during this depressing silence, his occasional cough was more noticeable. Luo Yun had a lack of response towards Chiu Yue, he just coldly glanced at her and then looked towards Feng Ming, “Young Lord.”

“Ah?” Feng Ming absent­mindedly uttered. “I know.”

“Ah?” After a long pause, Feng Ming finally reacted. He jumped up and looked at Luo Yun, “What? You know?”

Regarding the news of Wen Lan, if someone were to talk about it, it was not surprising. However, for Luo Yun and orchids!... These two things...really had nothing in common. In fact, everyone was feeling shocked.

“You know where the Wen Lan is?”

“Luo Yun, how do you know about Wen Lan?” “Where is that Wen Lan?”

"......"

 Before Du Feng and Feng Ming could say anything, the group of girls had surrounded Luo Yun.

“Hey! You little rascal, hurry and speak! We are asking you.”

Chiu Yue wanted so badly to kick Luo Yun like how Chiu Lan did with Rong Hu, but seeing his cold eyes and sword around his waist which probably drenched in lots of blood, she didn’t want to casually kick him and cause her pretty feet to be chopped in half.

“Luo Yun, I beg you, tell us. Young Master Du is very pitiful.” Chiu Lan wanted to use her soft voice to beg Luo Yun, but it had no effect on him.

Feng Ming sighed, walking over, he asked, “Luo Yun, do you really know where Wen Lan is? Please tell me, I’ll even bow down to thank you.”

Feng Ming knew Luo Yun always despise him and if he kneeled down in front of him, he will be more despised and taunted by him. However, because of his friend, Du Feng and the pitiful Princess Chang Liu, what can some taunted words do? Since Luo Yun is part of the Xiao Family, this will only be consider an internal dispute.

Surprisingly, Luo Yun did not say anything terrible.

Chapter 6

“I wouldn’t dare to.” Luo Yun looked up at Feng Ming, helped him up, refusing his ceremonious bow, and then replied, “I really do know where to get the Wen Lan flower and for me to tell Young Lord is not difficult. I only need Young Lord to give me an answer to this question.”

Answering questions again? Feng Ming’s face faintly twitched. He was quite pitiful, it seems that answering questions is his fate. Lie Zhong Liu already left and now another person plans on continuing the same tradition.

“Go ahead...” He replied in a weak tone of voice. Hopefully, it’s nothing related to death, world crisis, or political affairs.

“The spies came back from Tong Kingdom and reported that the Prince of Tong is still voicing his desire to kill Young Lord in order to take revenge for his royal father. Not only that, he has

 mobilized a group of army, awaiting for you at the borders. As of now, what is Young Lord’s decision regarding this matter? Are you planning on giving the command to head straight for Tong Kingdom, confronting the Prince of Tong in battle, or are you planning on avoiding Tong Kingdom and escaping with your tail behind your back?”

“Uh...” Feng Ming dropped his jaw, looking around at his maids and guards. Luo Yun sure knows what questions not to ask ­­ asking one that is terribly difficult. How cruel...

“Luo Yun! How dare you?!” Before Feng Ming could react, Rong Hu suddenly stood up and strode in front of Luo Yun to confront him, “Wherever Duke Ming wants to go, it’s not up to Luo Yun to have a say in it.” This sentence was awfully similar to the one that Luo Yun said a short while ago.

Feng Ming frowned. Sure enough, even though Rong Tian’s men are here, there is also the Xiao family’s men present in the conflict struggle.

Du Feng was very surprised at the sudden dispute, but he was careful not to intervene, just quietly stood up and observed the situation.

Luo Yun raised a hint of mockery as he sneered, “I wouldn’t dare to overlook Young Lord’s travel. However, that day, Young Lord did promised to make his decision after the situation was investigated clearly. As of now, the spies have returned, the situation within Tong Kingdom is as previously expected. Therefore, it’s very reasonable to inquire about Young Lord’s decision.”

“You are clearly forcing him!”

“How ridiculous. Who would dare force the Young Lord?” Luo Yun sneered, “If he"s afraid, he could just not go there, huh.”

“What are you ­huhing about?” Chiu Yue was boiling mad. She stared at Luo Yun, her large eyes emitting a hint of fire, “He is your Young Lord, you dare to treat him with disrespect?”

Luo Yun glanced over at Feng Ming again, “A person who is a coward does not qualify to be the Young Lord of the Xiao family.”

“What did you say? You c.o.c.ky brat! Shut your trap!” This time even Chiu Xing was blowing up.

The dispute between the two sides became more intense. Seeing Luo Yun’s fierce stare at Feng Ming, Chiu Lan bravely stood forward in front of Feng Ming as if to protect him.

 They were all protecting him. Feng Ming felt a sting in his heart. He didn’t know whether the pain was from Chiu Lan’s action or Luo Yun’s words, calling him a coward.

“You coward!” Luo Yun gently splur out those two words. “You shut up!”

“Luo Yun!” Rong Hu roared out, “Don’t you know the ordinance of the Xiao family? Slandering the Young Lord is execution!”

“So what if I’m executed? Can he become a person more like the Xiao family?”

Luo Yun’s contemptuous tone felt like a whip, making Feng Ming shudder. Even from behind Rong Hu’s back, he could still see Luo Yun’s scornful expression. This kind of expression was from deep inside, coming above the surface filled with anger and disdain.

Feng Ming can’t entirely blame Luo Yun. Perhaps a Young Lord like him made the Xiao family extremely disappointed. After all, the ma.s.sive wealth and power that had been acc.u.mulated over many generations, all of them were within the palm of his hands.

“You’re talking nonsense, you can’t criticize Duke Ming! Duke Ming isn’t like that.”

“He is the best, the most powerful, the most intelligent?” Luo Yun unhurriedly asked in response, “Do you dare to say that he is a man of indomitable spirit?”

“You....you...” It’s unexpected that Luo Yun has the talent of speaking eloquently, in a way that even Chiu Yue’s charming voice was stuttering. She could only tremble a few “you,” before her eyes reddened.

Feng Ming was extremely sad.

He noticed that Chiu Yue’s shoulder were slightly trembling. Standing to one side and seeing his loyal servants and guards wholeheartedly protect him, standing up for him to refute Luo Yun’s scolding, is considered an indescribable sadness for him.

Is he qualified to be Duke Ming?

How can he let his delicate maids, like Chiu Lan, face this kind of grievance for the useless Duke Ming like him?

They shouldn’t...

 Rong Hu’s downcast eyes, his deterrence was to the fullest, “You clearly know that going to Tong Kingdom is dangerous...”

“I’ll go.”

The room was starting to fill up with hostile gunpowder scent when a gentle soft voice suddenly intervened. The presence of the soft sound made everyone pause for a bit before realizing who had just spoke.

“Duke Ming?”

“Ah? Duke Ming, you....”

“No, you can’t!”

“I’m going.” Everyone’s attention was originally on Rong Hu and Luo Yun, but after hearing Feng Ming’s words, they all turned towards him.

“I’ve decided to go to Tong Kingdom.” Feng Ming took a deep breath and whispered those words.

His decision was so sudden that even Luo Yun thought it was strange. He was silent for awhile before commenting, “You have to think carefully before deciding. All of the men in the Xiao family never take back their words after they have been spoken.”

“I have made my decision, I will not go back on my words.” In fact, he had no choice but to go.

Even if Lie Zhong Liu supported him, allowed him to realize his dream, it was in hope that Feng Ming could face the various obstacles. If he can’t avoid them, then he should welcome them head on. Rong Tian, if it was him, he would not worry about this kind of thing. He would always stand up tall, with his majestic allure and calmly face all crisis his way. I hope that I didn’t let you down.

“Isn’t it just a trip to Tong Kingdom? No need to look at me like that.”

Feng Ming glanced back at the maids with looks of concern on their faces, he gave a hesitant smile towards them.

“Duke...Duke Ming...”

“I heard the scenery of Tong Kingdom’s sea is very beautiful.”

 He can’t hide anymore. Chiu Lan and them have complimented him in every way, all sincerely believing that he is a perfect Duke Ming. He hoped that he can become a perfect Duke Ming in their eyes. Therefore, he should at least make an effort this one time.

“I have made my decision. Please return your swords back in. Luo Yun, head back to your place, no need to argue anymore.” Feng Ming accepted Luo Yun’s suspicious glance. He raised his head and in front of his maids, Feng Ming must show a bit of pride of Xi Lei Duke Ming and the Xiao Family Young Lord.

FM: Going to Tong Kingdom is dangerous, but is it even more dangerous than Li Kingdom? I have been to Bo Jian, Fan Jia, Dong Fan, Li Kingdom, so why should I be afraid to go to Tong Kingdom? I’m going. Rong Hu.

RH: No, you can’t!

FM: Remove the anchor, we are going to Tong Kingdom.

The other people present didn’t know how to react. They were all unusually quiet. After a long time, Feng Ming noticed something was wrong, “Rong Hu, why aren’t you giving out the order to remove the anchor?”

“Duke Ming,” Rong Hu lowered his voice, “We have promised Xiao Liu that we’ll wait here for him.”

Ah, he almost forgot about this. Feng Ming was bored for a moment, then he looked up at Luo Yun and made eye contact, “So are you going to tell us where we can find the Wen Lan flower?”

In front of Luo Yun, Feng Ming tried to display a calm demeanor, hoping to make Luo Yun’s subordinates a bit surprised. Feng Ming’s mood was a lot better as his tone of voice was more relaxed than previously.

Luo Yun finally gave the Young Lord some respect, he gave him a simple answer, “The Xiao Family does not have it.”

Feng Ming frowned, but also used the same tone of voice and coldly asked, “If the Xiao Family does not have it, then who does?”

“Young Lord’s mother.” “Ha?”

 Even though Feng Ming knew he needed to display a confident demeanor to regain his dignity as Duke Ming and the Xiao’s Young Lord, he still revealed a stunned or silly expression that contradicted to his image. After listening to Luo Yun’s answer, Feng Ming was immediately struck back to his original form.

His mother always seem to have a lot of “surprises” for him.

“Lady Yao Ye planted many of these flowers.” Luo Yun glanced at him and asked, “Doesn’t Young Lord know that Mistress has a green thumb in planting these strange flowers?”

F e n g M i n g w a s s p e e c h l e s s . W  h o i n b l o o d y h e l l w o u l d k n o w t h i s ?  H i s d e a r o l d m o t h e r , d u r i n g the short period of time they met, tried to poison him and Rong Tian. What kind of world is this?

There was not enough time to lament when Du Feng’s voice traveled to his ears, “Thank you Duke Ming, we finally know the whereabouts of the Wen Lan flowers.”

After witnessing the dispute earlier, Du Feng still kept a calm demeanor. Even if he was curious, surprised, or pondering, his expression did not display any of it.

It seems as if nothing had happened.

Well that’s good, otherwise Feng Ming wouldn"t know how to explain the embarra.s.sing situation that happened. He was extremely grateful to Du Feng and said, “I will immediately write to my mother and ask her to send someone to deliver the Wen Lan flower here.”

Even though he didn’t know where Lady Yao Ye was, Master Xiao must definitely know. Even if he doesn’t know where Master Xiao is, Luo Deng must definitely know. Thus, the problem is solved if he gives the letter to Luo Deng.

Feng Ming didn’t make any eye contact with Luo Yun, he turned towards Du Feng and chuckled lightly, “I apologize for letting Brother Du witness a minor argument between the group. Ah, I hope Brother Du can stay here for a few more days. Once the Wen Lan flower arrived, Brother Du can bring it along with the An Shen stone and together we can go meet Princess Chang Liu. What is Brother Du’s thoughts about this?”

Since they are friends now, it would be too formal to keep calling him Young Master Du. Feng Ming automatically changed the Young Master to Brother Du instead. Feng Ming did not expect his Brother Du to refuse his offer.

He slightly sighed, “I still haven’t told you Chang Liu’s third request.”

 “Oh?” Feng Ming patted his head lightly, “I forgot that there was a third request. I hope it is not difficult to achieve.” G.o.d forbid, what does she want this time? Hopefully it’s not as difficult to achieve as the Wen Lan flower where money cannot buy...

“The third request, to say it’s hard is not hard, to say it’s easy is also not easy.” Du Feng observed closely, just one look at Feng Ming’s face, he already knew what he was thinking inside. With a worried face, he told Feng Ming, “She didn’t ask for any other items.”

Everyone gave a sigh of relief.

Du Feng continued, “She request that I not see her.”

Everyone’s shoulders collapsed once more. What? A request only?

Ah, what a tough love, the door of love in which not many can pa.s.s through clearly. Among the three requests, it seems as if this request is the one most hurtful for Du Feng. Besides Luo Yun, everyone who heard this looked at Du Feng with sympathy.

Du Feng was sad, but he wasn"t hurt, he gave a weak smile and muttered as if to himself, “I really don’t know if I"d rather express my grat.i.tude to her request or to express my disdain for it. To meet or not to meet, is the same as choosing death instead. But since she had made her requests, how can I let her down?”

“Let me bring the Wen Lan flower to her.” Feng Ming said.

Since the trip to Tong Kingdom is already settled, helping Du Feng by giving the Wen Lan flower to Chang Liu is a matter of convenience. It’s also an excuse to meet the helpless romantic Princess, and make a bit of contribution.

Hopefully, her husband, who is also the Crown Prince of Tong Kingdom, would not kill him after the meeting.

This was what Du Feng intended, he immediately clasped his hands together, “Thank you.” Officially standing in front of Feng Ming and giving his ceremonious bow. Since this matter involved Chang Liu, he had to show his utmost grat.i.tude.

Feng Ming helped him up and said, “Then about that An Shen stone...”

DF: Whether or not the Wen Lan flower will arrive early or late is not a problem. However, the An Shen stone is needed for Chang Liu’s illness. I will immediately send someone to ride night and day to deliver it to Chang Liu in Tong Kingdom Palace. I have several friends in Tong Kingdom who can enter the palace and see Chang Liu.

 When mentioning about socializing, having many friends, no one can compare with the reputed Reluctant King.

Du Feng’s proposal was very thoughtful because even if Feng Ming reached Tong Kingdom, he may not be able to give the An Shen stone to Princess Chang Liu. This matter is best handled by someone of Tong Kingdom.

Feng Ming nodded his head, “Alright, since that’s decided, I will also write to my mother, hoping that the Wen Lan flower will arrive here before we reach the borders of Tong Kingdom.”

Du Feng suddenly said, “I’ll be taking my leave.”

“What? So fast?” Feng Ming couldn"t imagine that he would take his leave so soon. Feeling disappointed, he advised, “Stay for a few days, since your plan for Fan Jia is already delayed.”

The maids also expressed their thoughts.

“Young Master, please don’t mind staying, Duke Ming really enjoyed chatting with you.” “That’s right. At least wait for the s.h.i.+p to reach Tong Kingdom’s border and then leave.”

“Could it be that the Young Master has to go somewhere in a hurry? For me, it’s best if the Young Master decides to stay on the s.h.i.+p, that way you can quickly know whether the An Shen stone and the Wen Lan flower reached Princess Chang Liu’s hands.”

“That’s right! Our Duke Ming will personally hand the Wen Lan flower to the Princess. Every word and movement of hers after receiving the gift will be relayed back to Young Master. As long as Young Master decides to stay here....”

Despite all the advis.e.m.e.nt, Du Feng still kept the same demeanor. A faint smile, crestfallen eyes, he looked around and once everyone calmed down, with a bittersweet smile he asked, “Should I really arrive and then leave her? Being nearby like that, can I really restrain myself from not rescuing her from the palace of Tong Kingdom? Every step closer to Tong Kingdom, all those painful thoughts I’ve abandoned, the thoughts of eloping with Chang Liu regardless of the consequences will appear. I, Du Feng, am afraid I won’t be able to control myself. I’m very afraid.”

This was the reason that caused everyone to be powerless. Du Feng’s sadness was the answer, even Chiu Yue who was the idealistic of the bunch had no choice but to remain silent. The consequences of that matter was not something to joke about. If Du Feng really cannot control himself and forcibly eloped with Chang Liu, even if the pair of lovers are together, they

 could still be hacked into thousands of pieces. Then there might even be a war between Tong Kingdom and Zhao Bei. A war! No one would dare start a war ­­ of course Rong Tian and Ruo Yan are exceptions.

“That’s why, I will be getting off now.” After finis.h.i.+ng, Du Feng gave a long sigh. Facing Feng Ming, he said, “Since we are friends, I will come find you in the future.”

“Hopefully, we will see each other soon,” Feng Ming muttered. Ever since Du Feng appeared, whether he was depressed or in pain, he still kept the same indifferent calmness, unlike Feng Ming who would express himself freely, being teased and criticized. At this time, Feng Ming perked up a smile, “Are you really leaving now? Alright, I’ll see you off.”

Feng Ming along with the others, walked Du Feng out onto the deck. Once out on the deck, the sky made it clear to Feng Ming that time flies really quick.

The Reluctant King is indeed deserving of the reputation. Feng Ming smiled hesitantly at Du Feng, “Although we’ve met for a short moment, it seems as if we were friends for many years.”

Du Feng was not as beautiful as Lu Dan, he was not domineering as Rong Tian, but he had another kind of gentle indifferent demeanor. If he applied the same saying his teacher once taught him, it would be “There was only five words that you can describe this Reluctant King: modest, righteous, just, bevelovent, and tranquility.”

If there is one word to describe him, then the feeling of comfortable comes to mind. The small boat Du Feng came on was still there, floating next to the large s.h.i.+p.

“When will we see each other again?” Feng Ming looked at his subordinates who were untwisting the ropes to the small boat and pulling it in, knowing that the time of farewell is nearing, he couldn’t help but ask Du Feng.

Du Feng raised his eyebrows, then laughed, “Fortunately, Xi Lei King is not here. If he were to see Duke Ming’s expression, he might be jealous. It’s Du Feng’s fault. Ah, am I really what the world have said about me, forever a heartless romantic? Chang Liu is suffering in Tong Kingdom, but after meeting a priceless friend, my mood is a lot better.”

Feng Ming quickly corrected him, “Meeting a priceless friend is definitely a happy thing, you don’t need to continue blaming yourself. Look, even though I appear hopeless without Rong Tian beside me, I’m very happy to meet you.”

However, his life is more fortunate than Du Feng, Rong Tian and Chang Liu are different, since Rong Tian will soon reunite with Feng Ming.

 Not knowing what was on Du Feng’s mind, he remained silent.

The rope to the small boat was untied, some of the Xiao men brought the boat over so that Du Feng can embark and leave as he pleases. But this time, no one wanted to tell him those words.

Du Feng was silent for awhile before looking over at Feng Ming and with gentle eyes, he said, “Does Duke Ming know how to play the flute?”

“Ah. This?” Feng Ming blushed red, “That’s right.” Therefore, the flute you gave is quite a waste to leave it with me...

“I’ll tell Duke Ming a secret, alright?” Du Feng suddenly lowered his voice.

His voice was clear and gentle on the ears, once it was lowered, not only was it not terrible to listen, but yet his voice was more mesmerizing. Feng Ming had never been resistant to secrets, not to mention secrets from Du Feng. His curiosity raised as he excitedly whispered, “What’s the secret?”

Even though the two of them lowered their voices, the few people around Feng Ming could also hear it. Chiu Yue and the others’ ears p.r.i.c.ked up.

“I actually don’t know how to play the flute.”

Feng Ming swept his eyes towards Du Feng, “I don’t believe you.”

“I never lie to my friends.” Du Feng seriously replied, “The enchanting sound the flute brings to others is because this jade flute is very special. The sound would be beautiful no matter what simple tune is blown, it can touch the hearts of anyone.”

“Really?” Feng Ming was skeptical. After Du Feng said that, he was very excited. Initially, Feng Ming intended to just carry it for show and not play it. If the jade flute can be blown and still make nice sound, then he might as well try.

While thinking, he took the jaded flute from his waist, placed it to his mouth and postured his fingers as how he remembered Du Feng had in his memory, “Is it like this?”

He took a breath, not knowing how cute his behavior was. Chiu Yue and Chiu Lan were laughing, even Du Feng curved his lips into a smile.

“Elevate your hand a little.” Du Feng helped him adjust his posture and corrected him, “You don’t need to use much strength, you need to put your soul into playing the flute. Use the air

 from your abdominal region and concentrate while slowly blowing. When Duke Ming drinks tea, don’t you also blow the hot tea? Blowing the flute is the same as blowing tea, with a bit more rhythm.”

Not sure if Feng Ming is talented or that he is better than the teacher. With a slight guidance from Du Feng, Feng Ming was able to blow a bit, sending a clear flute sound, just like what Du Feng had said, the sound was unusually beautiful. Though he cannot compare to Du Feng’s playing despite standing under the same sky, but according to Feng Ming, his first time playing the flute exceeded his expectations.

Needless to say, Chiu Lan immediately applauded, “It’s beautiful! Duke Ming is amazing!” Even Rong Hu gave a praise, “It’s really easy on the ears.”

Feng Ming was enraptured by the compliments. However, he did know his limits, blowing a couple of sounds, he giggled and thanked Du Feng, “I know you were modest when you said about casually blowing the flute can emit the same sound as yours. From what I see, I have to practice many years before I can play an enchanting melody like yours.”

After the farce, the gloomy atmosphere wavered down a lot. Du Feng silently listened to Feng Ming playing around with the flute before saying, “I have to go.”

Feng Ming knew that in order for him to not be sad, Du Feng stayed behind for a little awhile. His heart was more saddened by the separation, yet he felt it was strange that this person was not Rong Tian, so why is he feeling the same pain when he separated from Rong Tian?

Blinking his eyes a few times, he nodded and said, “I know you have to go.” He motioned his subordinates to prepare the boat.

They watched as Du Feng stepped onto the small boat. Waiting for the boat to drift away made everyone feel uneasy inside. Rong Hu suddenly cried out, waving towards another small boat heading their way, “Let them through! Don’t block them, it is the person we have been waiting for!”

Everyone was startled by him as they looked out towards that direction, another boat slightly larger than Du Feng’s, was unknowingly stopped by Feng Ming’s guards.

Rong Hu was telling the crew on the s.h.i.+p to make way while also reporting to Feng Ming, “Duke Ming, it is Xiao Liu.”

Feng Ming nodded his head, looking afar, there was a person on the boat arguing with the Xiao’s men, his stature was similar to what Xiao Liu looked like yesterday.

 Luo Yun knew that person was one of them, so he motioned for his subordinates to let them through.

“Oh.” Feng Ming suddenly remembered that he still haven’t completely see his guest off. He immediately looked down and sure enough Du Feng was still on the boat, seemingly turned around to look towards Xiao Liu’s direction. Noticing that Feng Ming was looking at him, he leisurely chuckled, “Duke Ming appears to be popular with many friends, one person hasn’t left and yet another one came. That’s great, that way, Duke Ming won’t be lonely.”

Not waiting for Feng Ming to answer, he bid his farewells to everyone, picked up the slender bamboo paddle and dabbled the water. Not sure how hard he rowed, but the small boat suddenly thrusted away from the s.h.i.+p, into the opposite direction of where Xiao Liu came from.

Feng Ming’s eyes followed after, though regrettable, but this carefree wanderer soon drifted farther away beyond his line of sight.

The time Du Feng’s image faded away was the precise moment when Xiao Liu set foot onto the s.h.i.+p. Feng Ming melancholy watched, as he turned around, a tall, slender figure appeared in front of his eyes.

A rarely seen excited Rong Hu introduced the young man, “Duke Ming, this is Xiao Liu.” ====

Xiao Liu wore a gray outfit, the bottom of the garment reached his ankle, it was very fitting for his stature. A belt was neatly wrapped around his waist and he also wore a pale gray cloak on the outside. Although the color was not eye­catching, but once worn on him, it becomes very compatible, exuding a slight hint of caution and tranquility.

Seeing how Feng Ming was studying him, Xiao Liu grinned and apologized, “Xiao Liu deserves death for making Duke Ming wait.” He slowly bowed.

Although Chiu Lan has been serving in the palace, she was not clear of Rong Tian’s hidden henchmen. This was the first time she and the rest have met Xiao Liu up close, therefore, they were careful in their behavior towards this Crown Prince’s envoy who had made great accomplishment for the “Terrifying Supernatural Magic Trick Act”.

Feng Ming had a very good impression of him, after waiting for his ceremonious bow, Feng Ming excitedly grabbed his hand. After examining him up and down, he said, “Hey, why does he look very familiar?”

 However, in his memory, this should be the first official meeting with Xiao Liu ­­ besides the magic performance yesterday, which they were too far away to be able to see clearly.

Rong Hu asked, “He looks a bit like His Majesty, right?”

Once he said that, everyone looked towards Xiao Liu again. Chiu Xing was the first person to call out, “He really looks a bit like His Majesty.”

Feng Ming laughed, “No wonder there’s a feeling of familiarity.”

While laughing, Feng Ming led them into the main cabin. Everyone sat down, as for Xiao Liu, he was placed in the same seat Du Feng had previously sat in.

“Ah....the matter yesterday...Thank you for helping us. If it wasn’t for you, then it would have gone bad.” Since it was their first meeting, Feng Ming and Xiao Liu were not as close as Rong Hu and Lie Er. Feng Ming had thought for half a day before he figured it would be best to show his appreciation, yet he couldn’t help but ask, “But how did you suddenly appear at the execution ground?”

Xiao Liu laughed heartily but was still very reserved. After listening to Feng Ming’s question, he relayed to them his encounter with Rong Tian.

When Feng Ming heard him mention Rong Tian, he was overly excited and frequently interrupted to ask, “How is he? Has he lost weight? Ah, when I was in Yong Yin, it would have been better if I made arrangements to meet him. Did he mention anything about when he’ll come to see me?”

Being interrupted by him, Xiao Liu did not mind and replied, “His Majesty said that he needs to go to Dong Fan first and then he’ll come looking for Duke Ming.”

Feng Ming whined loudly as if he was punched. At that time, he became listless, not in the mood for anything. Chiu Lan and the others came to his side to comfort him, “His Majesty will quickly come here. Dong Fan is not much further from here. Before Duke Ming heads to Tong Kingdom, His Majesty will surely come soon”, and so on.

As for Chiu Yue, while she was comforting Duke Ming, she was also observing the surroundings. That brat Luo Yun would usually take the opportunity to sneer or laugh mockingly at Feng Ming. Since Feng Ming is acting like a child right now, why is he suddenly quiet?

Xiao Liu continued with his story, mentioning how he traveled night and day in order to find a way to save Chao An, and while on the road, he mistakenly captured Le Ting. Rong Hu laughed at the mere mention of it and clapped his knees.

 RH: Didn’t I asked why would you tie up Le Ting and hid him in your horse carriage? So that’s how it is, haha, that’s the story!

Chiu Yue pulled onto Chiu Lan’s sleeves and made a face at her.

Rong Hu and Xiao Liu must be fairly close, if not, then why would Rong Hu change into a completely different person around Xiao Liu, he appeared more lively.

Feng Ming is not usually depressed for more than three minutes, so after he pouted for a bit, his mood became better once Xiao Liu mentioned about the past events. Feng Ming clapped his hands and exclaimed, “I can’t believe my first magic trick was thrilling and yet dangerous, fortunately, you didn’t end up killing Le Ting or else we’ll be saving one Chao An, but yet harming another Le Ting. If that’s the case, it would be very bad.”

Chiu Lan nodded her head in agreement.

After finis.h.i.+ng recalling the past events, Xiao Liu felt thirsty so he drank a full cup of tea. He stayed silent for a while before speaking again, “There’s an issue I’ve been thinking about but I can’t figure it out, therefore, I wanted to ask Duke Ming.”

His att.i.tude when speaking appeared very solemn, making Feng Ming’s heart involuntarily beat irregularly. An issue? Another issue....can’t be...Feng Ming timidly asked, “What’s the issue?”

XL: I can guess the majority of what happened yesterday, like when the prisoner was placed inside the wooden box, before it was hanged and lit up by fire, he was pulled out. However...

Xiao Liu furrowed his eyebrows and continued, “If the prisoner was switched out, then why when it was lit on fire, there was frightening noises coming from inside the wooden box, as if someone was struggling? Duke Ming couldn’t perhaps have exchanged Chao An with another prisoner?”

FM: Of course not, why would I be so cruel?

Feng Ming straightened himself to answer, but he immediately felt puzzled as he muttered, “Ah, you’re right. Why was there a noise coming from the inside? Clearly there wasn’t anyone inside?

The more he thought about it, the more something didn’t feel right. Feeling alarmed, Feng Ming turned to face Rong Hu.

 Rong Hu’s face was just as pale as him, he replied, “The one responsible for exchanging the prisoner was General Le Ting. I remember during the meeting, we only talked about digging a large hole under the execution ground to hide the prisoner, building the wooden box at the scene, using the time of nailing the wooden box to grab the prisoner from below the box to hide him away, there was no mentioning of using another prisoner as subst.i.tute. However...”

Le Ting is a general who is familiar with death on the battlefield, so killing someone doesn’t mean much to him. Using a prisoner inside the jail and to use him as a subst.i.tute can make the magic trick more realistic, perhaps that is something that Le Ting is capable of.

Everyone looked at each other, they all wanted to know the truth behind it. The atmosphere suddenly became stagnate.

Feng Ming was petrified. If this was the case, even if the subst.i.tute was a prisoner who needed to be executed, this didn’t made him any less relieved. It would have been better to be beheaded than to be burned alive. It would be too cruel!

“I know.” An ice cold voice interrupted.

Chiu Yue felt uneasy, knowing that the situation was terrible, she fiercely jumped up, stared wide­eyed at the speaker and shouted at him, “You know, you know, you know, what is it that you know? I’ll tell you this, this time we will not agree to any more of your requests. Don’t think that you can use this matter to force Duke Ming!” After finis.h.i.+ng, she even gave a loud, fierce snort. The earlier matter where Luo Yun forced Feng Ming to travel to Tong Kingdom was still not settled.

All of the young maidens had the same common enemy as they all stared at Luo Yun. Feng Ming asked, “You know who was inside?”

“It was a rat.”

“What?”

“After they rescued Chao An out, they conveniently slipped a large rat only uniquely found in Fan Cheng, inside the wooden box.” Luo Yun’s face was like a dead person, as if he didn’t know he was telling them a funny story. Strangely, a handsome lad like him, if he were to smile more often, he would be very popular with the ladies.

“That’s wrong.” Chiu Lan thought about it carefully, being skeptical she said, “Even if it was a large rat, it can’t make such a loud noise like that.”

 Luo Yun used a cold faint voice to reply, “The rat’s tail was tied with a string and the string was then tied to two thin wooden blocks. Once the box was lit on fire, the rat would run up and down, causing the wooden blocks to knock against the box, all sorts of loud and soft noises can be heard.”

Everyone carefully pondered and imagined the proposed solution, after thinking, they were able to accept it as a fact.

Feng Ming was the first to be relieved, laughing, he said, “Good! A good big rat! Very thorough! No wonder the magic trick this time was a huge success!”

Chiu Yue observed Luo Yun and said, “Since we didn’t know, how did you know about it?” “That’s right, how did you figure it out?” Chiu Lan probed Luo Yun for an answer.

Chiu Yue gave a laugh and crossed her arms, “Don’t joke around, how can he figure it out? I’ll use one finger to bet with you that he doesn’t have the brains to come up with that idea. He probably heard of this news from the Xiao family men.”

After finis.h.i.+ng, a fierce sharp sound and s.h.i.+mmering light shone forth. Luo Yun’s sword was unsheathed and pointed straight at Chiu Yue’s face.

Everyone was shocked, Chiu Yue was scared stiff, even the smirk on her face froze in place, holding her breath, she stammered, “You...what do you want?” She was so scared that she couldn’t even dare to cry.

LY: I’m betting with you and allowing you to use the sword to cut off one of your fingers.

With that one line, it’s confirmed that Luo Yun was the one who proposed the idea to Le Ting.

However, at this time, there was no point in him answering the question, the sword filled with gleaming light was placed just under the white neck of Chiu Yue.

The tip almost touching her tender skin and with a little more force, it can easily stab into it. Chiu Xing was so scared her lips went pale, she also stammered and barely smiled as she said, “Luo Yun, Chiu Yue...she was just joking around. She...she was just kidding!”

Luo Yun was the same as always and replied dryly: “I’m not joking.”

Rong Hu and Xiao Liu’s face changed color, both silently stood up, hands to the hilts of their swords, awaiting for Feng Ming’s order.

Feng Ming was feeling uneasy. Taking action was not an option, harming anyone was also not good. He was certainly distressed for Chiu Yue, but Luo Yun was a part of the Xiao

 Family, and someone who had influence among the Xiao men. Could it be that before reaching Tong Kingdom, the two factions will begin fighting? Then what is the point of having him agree to travel to Tong Kingdom to die? Wasn’t it because they couldn’t agree, wasn’t that the reason he nodded his head to go?

This is terrible...what to do now? Just a while ago, everyone was sitting around and chatting, so why are they suddenly unsheathing swords?

What the h.e.l.l? Who brought up the rat thing?

“Chiu Yue, you..you...hurry and apologize, tell him...tell him you were just joking around.” Chiu Xing couldn’t persuade Luo Yun so she tried to advise Chiu Yue.

Feng Ming tried to placate the situation, “That’s right. Luo Yun, don’t be upset, Chiu Yue inadvertently offended you, let’s put the sword down and slowly talk things out, I will make Chiu Yue apologize to you, is that alright?”

A short moment later, Chiu Yue became a bit calmer. She was originally trembling with fear, but after hearing Chiu Xing and Feng Ming, she decided to bit her lower lip and for no apparent reason, lifted her neck as if not scared and stared straight at Luo Yun as she stubbornly said, “I..I...I won’t! You can just kill me, I don’t believe you will do it.”

Feng Ming didn’t know what to do. Chiu Yue, all of the people of the Xiao family are crazy, this you know as well, why is there a need to give a horrible answer at this time?

Seeing his eyes immediately flash, Chiu Yue screamed out, closing her eyes and cried out, “I know! I know you hate me! You have thought of wanting to kill me!” Her tears flowed down her face.

Chiu Lan and Chiu Xing also screamed out in unison. The three female screams were almost simultaneously along with a “clang” sound, Chiu Yue did not feel any pain to her neck. Could it be that Luo Yun’s sword was extremely fast, that pain was not even felt?

Chiu Yue was half scared and half skeptical, so she slowly opened her eyes, discovering that both Chiu Xing and Chiu Lan still had their eyes closed and were about to faint. Feng Ming innocently stood up, Xiao Liu and Rong Hu had a relaxed expression.

Luo Yun’s sword was placed back in the sheath. Compared to regular days, his expression was a bit more gentle, maybe even pleasant. He looked at Chiu Yue, who lost half of her spirit, his thin lips slightly lifted into a faint smile and before long, he said, “You are the ugliest crying woman I’ve ever seen.”

 When he finished, no one knows why, his naturally cold face changed a bit, turning away as if reluctant to let others see the color within his eyes as this moment.

Chapter 7

After the sword event pa.s.sed, everyone finally sat down, however, the current situation and chatting were greatly different than before. Chiu Lan and Chiu Xing’s hands were still trembling while they poured the tea. In addition to the s.h.i.+vering Chiu Yue was experiencing, she was a bit mad after surviving the mishaps, and of course, it was because of what Luo Yun said to her that made her angry.

What did he mean by the ugliest crying woman? If that b.a.s.t.a.r.d didn’t have a sword in hand, and this young beautiful Chiu Yue didn’t want to die young, then she would have given him several slaps.

Feng Ming made a puzzled expression as he examined Luo Yun and then looked over at Chiu Yue. He later looked over at Xiao Liu and Rong Hu and noticed that none of them were interested in chatting. After Xiao Liu finished drinking his cup of tea, he looked out the window at the sky and then stood up, “I have to go.”

FM: So soon?

XL: There are some things His Majesty commanded me to do, to take advantage of this trip and quickly finish up my duties in Fan Cheng. Nonetheless, the reason I’m here is also according to the Crown Prince Yong Quan, which is best if I hurry back.

After finis.h.i.+ng his words, he bid Feng Ming farewell, “Duke Ming doesn’t need to send me off, the sun is about to rise, even though we are on the s.h.i.+p, it’s still inevitable to prevent others from noticing. I can leave on my own.”

Feng Ming secretly praised him for his carefulness, very similar to Rong Tian indeed. Ah, when will he learn this skill of Rong Tian? Thus, he only sent Rong Hu as the ma.s.s representative to send Xiao Liu to the deck and silently see him off.

Eventually, all the guests have finally left. Feng Ming immediately stretched and gave two big yawns.

 CL: Does Duke Ming want to head inside to rest? The sun is rising, Xiao Liu has left, Rong Hu will give the order to remove the anchor. How about resting a little and then afterwards have something to eat, is that alright?

Feng Ming lazily closed his eyes and nodded his head. He was then taken to the room and a.s.sisted to lie down by his maids. Once everything was arranged, still as usual, Luo Yun sat at the head of the bed, wrapping his arms around his sword,

Feng Ming wanted to sleep for awhile, but he wasn’t really tired. Once he closed his eyes a bit, he didn’t feel tired anymore. Opening his eyes wide, he looked at Luo Yun sitting in front of him, without anything to do, Feng Ming continued examining Luo Yun closely.

Luo Yun’s energy compared to Feng Ming last night was much more alert. He guarded Feng Ming last night, and even now, half leaning against the bed, he could feel Feng Ming’s slight movements. He immediately opened his eyes, which just happened to come in contact with Feng Ming’s stare. Without much patience, he asked, “What are you staring at?”

Hard to imagine that a young lad, not much younger than Feng Ming, could show such a cold­blooded expression like that.

Being stared back by Luo Yun, Feng Ming should have subconsciously retreated back, but instead, he closed his eyes for a short moment, then within seconds, wanted to turn a rabbit into a tiger, not afraid of death, he reopened his eyes to look at Luo Yun some more.

So how is his training in the Xiao family?

Towards Luo Yun, Feng Ming had always been unusually curious. “You’re not sleepy yet?”

“....”

“Luo Yun?”

“....”

“....”

“Hey, Luo Yun.”

Feng Ming persistently whispered, causing Luo Yun, who was resting his eyes to open them and asked, “Young Lord, what is it that you command?”

 “Nothing really...”

Luo Yun glanced over at him, just when he closed his eyes, Feng Ming’s voice rang through his ears again.

“Hey, let’s chat for awhile, I’m bored.”

“I am here to protect you, not to relieve you of boredom.” Luo Yun said in a deliberate way to express his impatience towards Feng Ming, still holding his sword, Luo Yun positioned his back towards the chattering Young Lord.

Luo Yun continued to give out a cold distance aura. After a short moment, Feng Ming again broke the silence, “Why did you bully Chiu Yue today?”

“Who’s bullying her?” The speed of Luo Yun’s response was unimaginably faster than before.

“You did.”

“I did not.”

“If placing a sword to a neck of a girl is not considered bullying, then what is?” There was a long silence in responding to this question.

“Luo Yun?” “.....”

“Luo Yun, hey, Luo Yun....” H ara.s.sing him like this won’t make him place a sword to my neck, would it?

“Luo ­­­” The stiff Luo Yun suddenly moved, shocking Feng Ming to the point of shutting up. Not good, is he so ashamed that now he’s angry? He was just trying to build a bond by communicating.

Feng Ming cautiously observed him from the moment he stood up, firmly holding his sword, not turning around, to until Luo Yun walked straight out of the cabin did Feng Ming let out a sigh of relief.

So scary. This person’s presence is the same as his frightening old man (Master Xiao). Ah, he is the Young Lord of the Xiao family, but this has caused Feng Ming so much headache.

The time Feng Ming’s large s.h.i.+p left harbor was the same time the small boat floating down the Aman River reached a secluded area, less than ten miles from Fan Cheng city.

 Just when Du Feng stepped foot onto sh.o.r.e, several men dressed in common outfits of Yong Yin civilians jumped out from among the bushes on both sides. Facing Du Feng, they slightly bowed at him, “Young Master, you have arrived very fast, please follow me, the princess is waiting for you inside.” Turning around, they led Du Feng into the depths of the bushes.

The place was very desolated. The entrance had been long abandoned by Yong Yin for many years. The further and deeper they walked into the place, the trees and gra.s.s became taller than a person, completely covering a young man. Du Feng leisurely walked into the tall gra.s.ses. A short time pa.s.sed and a small tent emerged in sight. Though the tent was small, it was st.i.tched together by a fine leather and held down by a layer of thick gold on each corner. On each piece of gold was a variety of patterns, individually carved and polished, refined and luxurious, definitely not something an ordinary person can have.

Du Feng didn’t show the slightest surprise when he saw a tent appeared in the area. The person led him to the front of the tent curtain, as if not daring to enter. He turned to Du Feng and respectfully bowed to him, “Your subordinate does not dare to enter, however, Young Master, please enter on your own accord.” Du Feng nodded, he lifted the curtain and his eyes first landed on a figure standing in the middle of the tent.

“Princess.”

“You came back.” The woman was alone in the tent, with her back towards him. She was a bit shocked to hear his voice. Turning around, her bright eyes landed on him, she then whispered, “Have you completed everything accordingly?”

Standing in the middle of the tent was the beloved sister of Ruo Yan, who is also his right hand person, Princess Miao Guang.

Du Feng displayed his trademark gentle smile and nodded.

Seeing his smile, Miao Guang subconsciously felt cold chills. “Yu Lang, your skill of harming people gets better each day, is there anyone whom you cannot harm at all in this world?”

Being praised by Miao Guang, Yu Lang didn’t show the slightest bit of arrogance. Slightly bowing, he replied, “As long as it’s for the Li Kingdom, Yu Lang can harm anyone as ordered.”

“Anyone?” Miao Guang’s eyes glared sharply, then it quickly disappeared as she changed into an innocent girl. She then chuckled, “If my Royal Brother heard about this, he would be very happy.”

 She didn’t want to continue discussing about this topic, so she decided to request this important figure whom her brother had hidden away for many years to sit down. Once she had sat down with him, she asked, “You handed the jade flute to the hands of Duke Ming?”

“Of course.” After Yu Lang replied, his eyes swept across the tent, casually fixing onto Miao Guang’s. He was quiet for a while before lightly smiling and asked, “Is Princess worried that I didn’t do things thoroughly?”

“No, I only believed that Duke Ming is the most foolish person, he is easily gullible and yet Rong Tian dares to let him travel alone, thus most certainly, there will be lots of skillful people arranged by his side. For example, Rong Hu is a very cautious man, even if you can easily trick Duke Ming, how can you easily deceive others?”

“Your Highness is concerned about this?” Yu Lang paused for a bit before retelling her the process of his meeting with Feng Ming. He continued, “Originally, I was wondering how to hand the jade flute to Duke Ming without making them suspicious. I can’t believe even the heavens have helped me, Duke Ming actually opened up and asked to exchange keepsakes. I noticed that he seemed to like the jade flute and naturally, I removed it and gave it to him. He was extremely happy.” His eloquent tone and gentle voice would seem as if he was recalling old memories of a good friend to outsiders. Who would know that his intentions were vicious?

As Yu Lang spoke, he carefully observed Miao Guang from the corner of his eyes. Unfinished, he added, “During the time I left, I intentionally taught Duke Ming how to play the flute. He’s quite talented, after learning, his playing was easy on the ears.”

Miao Guang couldn’t stop her shoulders from slightly shaking, “He, he used the jade flute?”

YL: That’s right. From what I saw, he really loved that jade flute and will certainly bring it along to play it night and day, constantly practicing. The jade that was used to create that flute is very loose and crisp, it can easily create powder. Since he used his mouth to blow unwittingly, that powder will travel to his throat...

“Enough,” Miao Guang abruptly stopped him. Yu Lang wasn’t surprised at her undaunted action, he paused before asking, “Are you angry, Your Highness?”

Miao Guang knew that abruptly stopping Yu Lang was uncalled for. She smiled brighter than before, “How can that be? I’m very happy for my Royal Brother. As for this success, I figured it would be best for Royal Brother to be the first to know. As his sister, I don’t want to be the first to enjoy the news.”

 “So that’s how it is. There is no need for Your Highness to be happy for His Majesty too soon.” Yu Lang glanced over at Miao Guang, his eyes unusually gentle, “The powder of the jade is not toxic, only when it comes in contact with the Wen Lan flower.”

“Ah...how about the An Shen Stone?”

“It’s in my hands.”

Miao Guang stretched out her beautiful hand, “Place it here.”

Yu Lang went silent.

“What’s wrong?” Miao Guang displayed an unhappy face after seeing no movement from Yu Lang. “Didn’t you say it was in your hands?”

Yu Lang’s eyes met with hers, using a mild gentle tone of voice, he said, “This object is best to be in my hands instead.”

“What audacity!” Miao Guang loudly shouted. Displaying the arrogance of a Li Kingdom Princess, she snorted, “How bold of you to speak with me that way. Having it in your hands is better? Who said that?”

“His Majesty did.” Yu Lang answered. Just like an arrow shooting straight into Miao Guang’s body, she was in disbelief. Stunned for a moment, she asked in a low voice, “What did you say?”

“This was what His Majesty said.” Although he had revealed his last resort, knocking off half of Miao Guang’s arrogance, Yu Lang did not display an att.i.tude of contempt. Instead, his att.i.tude was even more gentle and more respectful. He sighed softly, as if he didn’t have the heart to say the following words, therefore, using his most sincere tone of voice, he said, “His Majesty secretly ordered that the An Shen stone needs to be kept in my hands, it cannot be handed over to anyone else, it most definitely cannot be in your hands, Your Highness.”

He glanced at the half green half pale Miao Guang, sighing again, he continued, “If Your Highness doesn’t believe me, you can send someone to confirm the matter with His Majesty.”

“How can I not believe you?” Miao Guang bit her lower lip, gently spurting out the words under her breath, but soon her bright smile returned, just like past matters were all thrown aside; as if nothing happened. A bit tired, she hesitantly stretched her back and stood up, “What Royal Brother said is correct. Having it in your hands is better. No matter what, Duke Ming cannot escape this time and its all thanks to you.” She gave Yu Lang a smile and waved her hand. “You’re excused, I would like to immediately write a letter to Royal Brother to tell him that the plan was successful.”

 After sending Yu Lang away, Miao Guang opened up a white delicate silk spread made for writing letters. Pondering for a while, she dipped her brush in the ink to write, scribbling three to four lines at once. When she wrote the part, “Duke Ming has fallen into our trap,” her hand began trembling without reason, the small drop of ink pooled onto an empty area on the sheet.

Miao Guang stared at the drop of ink for a moment, then suddenly threw the brush, not continuing the half written letter. Sitting at that same spot, she held both of her knees and started sobbing, however suppressing herself, using a subtle voice so that no one could hear her crying.

===========

Borders of Bo Jian, within the city of Han Gui, at the San Jiang inn in a secluded alley.

From his bed, he opened his eyes, while on high alert, Zi Yan turned his head to the left. The bed from across the room, next to the wall only had messy beddings left on it. The person on the bed was supposed to be sleeping, but not a trace of him was seen. Zi Yan sat up, taking his sword from under the pillow and hanging it around his waist. He put on his boots and headed out to the door down the stairs to the patio of the inn.

During the night, there was a gentle darkness throughout the city of Han Gui. At this time, every common household would have blown out their candles. Overlooking the city, there was one candle that was burning for the past few hours, burning brightly just like the stars in the night sky.

“Your Majesty.” Zi Yan stepped onto the patio, standing behind a tall figure, he whispered, “Tomorrow we have a long journey, Your Majesty needs to rest.”

By night, Rong Tian’s figure appeared even more majestic than in daylight. The outline of the Great King, even Zi Yan who is tall and slender, couldn’t help but lift his head to examine Rong Tian’s profile, a handsome angular face that is appreciated and favored by Feng Ming.

Zi Yan understood what was on Rong Tian’s mind, “Your Majesty is still worried about Duke Ming, am I right?”

He doesn’t know what the Prime Minister and His Majesty had discussed about for one long night that had made His Majesty agreed to let Duke Ming leave on his own. However, once His Majesty allowed Duke Ming to travel to the seven nations, following the journey as a bodyguard, Zi Yan and the Great King were inseparable, so it was easy to perceive His Majesty’s concerns.

 Traveling everyday in haste in spite of fear, just in order to quickly reach Dong Fan so he can be reunited with Duke Ming sooner. Constantly in endless thoughts, eventually making a sharp­eyed man and an unbreakable soul like His Majesty to worry nonstop, without any good night’s rest. Zi Yan felt that maybe in this whole life, he might not understand that feeling. Perhaps only people who love with pa.s.sion can understand it. Yet, Zi Yan was a calm person, too calm to be capable of pa.s.sionate love.

“I have a bad feeling.” Recovering from his daze, Rong Tian replied as his handsome face became solemn, “As if I have ignored something. What did I miss?”

“Is Your Majesty talking about...Dong Fan? Duke Ming? Or Yue Zhong city?”

“There is Prime Minister for Dong Fan, Wei Qiu Niang and Qian Lin for Yue Zhong, which I’m not worried about. As for Feng Ming’s journey around the world, that is the biggest target.” His eyes narrowed as a sharp light seemingly emitted from them. Rong Tian continued pondering, “Rong Hu is usually very careful, the Xiao henchmen are plenty, for anyone to harm Feng Ming, unless they mobilized an army, then there is no way they can succeed. a.s.sa.s.sination or a secret attack cannot be done. Luring him from Rong Hu cannot happen. As for poisoning, I have repeatedly advised them, anything brought in the hands of Feng Ming must be tested for poison.”

Zi Yan’s eyes glittered in the night, with a low voice, he said, “This matter, Your Majesty has thought about it many times. Duke Ming is under many layers of protection, no one will be able to hurt him. Please rest a.s.sured, Your Majesty.”

“But my mind is not at rest.” “Your Majesty?”

“My mind is not at rest, I always feel that there is something I have ignored.” Rong Tian’s tone deepened, “Zi Yan.”

“Yes.”

“The troops are now in Bo Jian, the hardest path we have crossed it. I will personally lead the rest to Dong Fan to join up with the Prime Minister. Zi Yan, I want you to head back from here and meet up with Feng Ming.”

Zi Yan was stunned nonetheless, he immediately accepted the order, bowing down, he said, “Your subordinate obeys your order, however, once I meet with Duke Ming, does Your Majesty have anything you wish for me to relay to him?”

 “Please tell him,” Rong Tian paused for a bit, his pupils emitted a ray of gentleness and warmth. Silently pondering, his lips curved upward into a beautiful arc, a subtle tremble in his heart, with a pleasant voice as if he was standing in front of the person, with eyes slightly watered watching him.

“Tell him to be extremely careful, the scariest thing is falling into a trap, often it’s hard to notice any flaws so don’t be careless.”

“Understood, I will transfer the message to Duke Ming.”

“Also tell him to patiently...wait for me.”

==========

The Xiao family fleet sounded their drums and chimed the gongs as they continued upstream along Aman River, heading straight to Dong Kingdom.

Even though the s.h.i.+p was magnificently decorated, staying on it for a long time would soon become boring. Besides the occasional encounter of the scenic sh.o.r.es and relaxing at port stops, the majority of the time was extremely dull and boring. During those times, Feng Ming found that playing the flute was his õnly source of entertainment.

The Xiao family had musicians traveling onboard and among them, there was someone who knew how to play a flute. Feng Ming eagerly wanted to practice; therefore, he purposely requested for that person to teach him. As each day pa.s.sed by, his playing became easier on the ears.

The jade flute Du Feng gave was a precious gift to him, he even refused to let other people touch it. Everytime he finished blowing it, he would ask Chiu Lan to prepare a damp washcloth, to personally wipe it himself and then carefully placed it back onto his waist belt.

Chiu Lan would often laugh at him, “There are many better items in the palace, but yet none of them have brought such joy to Duke Ming like this one. Young Master Du Feng just gave a jaded flute and now it has turned into a precious object. If His Majesty were to find out, he would definitely be burning with jealousy.”

Feng Ming joked around with his female attendants, giggling with them, “Do you mean Rong Tian will be jealous of Du Feng or be jealous of the jade flute?”

During the night, under the moon and cool breeze, after he finished eating, Feng Ming continued playing a simple tune. Despite the practicing, he is still far from achieving the same result as the original owner of the jade flute. However, his slender body, along with his loose fitted robes and shoulder hung cloak that Chiu Yue handmade for him, while standing under

 the moonlight and holding his flute was enough to make all the observers, especially Chiu Yue mesmerized.

“Duke Ming is amazing.”

“Naturally, Duke Ming is impressive; therefore, a quick learner. I believe Duke Ming’s playing is even better than Du Feng’s.”

“Chiu Xing, your praises are a bit outrageous.” “Ha ha..”

Gradually, even Luo Yun who usually is bothered by these silly chats was seen quietly leaning against the deck of the s.h.i.+p. He silently stared out towards the river, as if he didn’t care about the lively chatter of the men and women around him.

“Duke Ming, please rest for a bit. You’ve been tirelessly blowing the flute. I have made this eight layer red bean cake, come and have a taste.”

“That’s right, Chiu Lan. I find that your lamb thigh stew last night was relatively good.” “Chiu Xing is a glutton cat.”

“You’re wrong! Just to let you know, the glutton cat is Lie Er. Unfortunately, Lie Er is not here so it’s Chiu Yue instead!”

“Chiu Xing, you dare say bad things about me, I’ll pinch your ears...”

Luo Yun usually ignored these things, but at this time, he couldn’t help eavesdrop into their conversation and record each of their laughters.

Because the Prince of Tong expressed his hostility towards the Young Lord, each day sailing closer to Tong Kingdom, the actions of the Xiao bodyguards became more alert. They constantly sent out many spies to inquire about the latest situation in Tong Kingdom.

The security on board was even more tight. As a result, Feng Ming’s request to sightsee was limited as both the Xiaos and Rong Tian’s men were against it, afraid that a.s.sa.s.sination attempts would be more frequent.

Luo Yun proposed that Feng Ming needs to learn self defense, which Rong Hu also agreed to. Eventually, Feng Ming gave in to learning some self defense to protect himself if the time comes. That was when Luo Ning, who is usually on a different s.h.i.+p, requested to see Feng Ming and proposed that Luo Yun help train Feng Ming. Luo Ning told Feng Ming not to

 underestimate Luo Yun’s martial arts because even though he is not as skilled as Master Xiao, he has learned from him since he was little. Chiu Lan urged Rong Hu to say something regarding the request since it would be dangerous for Feng Ming to practice with Luo Yun. However, after some consideration, Rong Hu believed that Luo Yun would be a good option, judging on the fact that Luo Yun has some status within the Xiao family.

Even though Rong Hu is the representative for Rong Tian and is usually in dispute with Luo Yun, but from his natural instinct and intuitive, Rong Hu believed that Luo Yun’s att.i.tude towards Feng Ming is not solely disgust and disdain.

This person could become of great help to Duke Ming within the Xiao family, especially if Duke Ming is able to become an ally with him. Rong Hu knew that he wouldn’t have the heart to train Duke Ming in sword techniques; instead, he looked forward to Luo Yun’s a.s.sistance. Feng Ming understood Rong Hu’s reason when he gave permission to Luo Yun to a.s.sist Feng Ming.

“Ah...alright.”

“Thank you Young Lord.” Luo Ning expressed a sense of success and then withdrew himself.

After giving Feng Ming a ceremonious bow, he turned around to glance at Luo Yun, displaying a fatherly att.i.tude, “Go and help train the Young Lord.” Luo Ning then left the main s.h.i.+p.

For a moment, Rong Hu sweared he sensed something from Luo Ning’s eyes, but this feeling was just for a fleeting second, not giving enough time for him to ponder.

The three maids took care of changing Feng Ming’s garments, while Rong Hu picked out two wooden swords from the storage for the training. After Feng Ming finished dressing, he handed one of the swords to Feng Ming and said, “Luo Yun’s swordsmans.h.i.+p is very fast, if Duke Ming is able to train without allowing his sword to touch you, then that is very good.”

Feng Ming nodded his head.

Feng Ming and Luo Yun started their battle practice, Feng Ming gave it his all, which surprises Luo Yun since he always believed that Young Lord was completely useless. Feng Ming did noticed that he had improved from the b.l.o.o.d.y battle in Dong Fan and the constant training with Rong Tian. However, despite all that, Luo Yun was still quicker and managed to give a strike to the right side of Feng Ming’s chest. The blow caused ma.s.sive pain for Feng Ming, the wooden sword in his hand also fell, leaving Feng Ming with a distressed look on his face.

The three maids came to Feng Ming’s side and examined the area that was injured. The area was bruised and bleeding a bit. Feng Ming said that he was alright, but they felt hurt from the sight of it.

 Chiu Yue was upset, she immediately looked over at Luo Yun, “Are you practicing or are you trying to take Duke Ming’s life?” Luo Yun didn’t respond, withdrawing his wooden sword and standing still to one side. Hearing Chiu Yue’s scolding, he only used his bright painted eyes to coldly stare at her without saying anything.

Chiu Yue’s eyes were even wider as she charged forward, but was pulled back by Chiu Xing, “Why are you arguing with that kind of person? First, let’s carry Duke Ming inside.”

Feng Ming smiled hesitantly, “I can walk...”

They helped Feng Ming inside the room and removed the armor on him. Feng Ming noticed that there was a hole in the armor and asked Chiu Xing to help mend it for him.

Chiu Xing didn’t answered, but Chiu Yue scolded him, “When are you going to change your mindset? You’re not worried about yourself and yet you are worrying about the armor. What’s the point of worrying about one armor when I can help you make two of them tomorrow if needed.”

Feng Ming knew that his female attendants did not want to see any bruises or scars on his body, worrying that they all might cry together, he quickly put on a smiling face, “I just feel pity for the armor, it’s rare to have such beautiful embroidery. If I knew it earlier, I wouldn’t have worn this during practice, ha ha.”

Hearing his foolish reason, Chiu Yue didn’t know whether to cry or laugh. At the corner of her eyes, the cold Luo Yun suddenly entered the room and amidst her sudden anger, she shouted, “Why are you here? Afraid that you haven’t caused much injury?” Without thinking, she raised her hands and threw the armor towards Luo Yun’s head.

Without a blink of eye, Luo Yun raised his hand and caught that “weapon.” He didn’t say a word, but only carefully observed Chiu Yue.

When this person doesn’t speak, he gives off a heartless aura, not only that, he had once placed a sword against Chiu Yue’s neck. Everyone who saw the way he was looking at Chiu Yue was nervous for her.

Even Chiu Yue got gooseb.u.mps from his stare, unrelieved and uneasy inside, she could only stare back at him.

“Duke Ming!”

Luckily, Rong Hu’s voice rang in, appearing very lively as if receiving pleasant news.

 “Duke Ming,” Breaking the silence of the room, Rong Hu quickly walked forward, energetically reporting, “Zi Yan is here!”

This unexpected news cleared up the heavy atmosphere brought in by Luo Yun.

Feng Ming was the first person to jump up, “Zi Yan?” He shouted in surprise and then followed by a painful cry due to sudden movement around his wound area. Chiu Lan and the others hurried after him as he ran out the cabin to the deck of the s.h.i.+p to meet up with Zi Yan.

“It’s really Zi Yan!” Pausing for a bit, he asked, “Where’s Rong Tian?”

“His Majesty ordered me to meet up with Duke Ming and send his greetings.” Traveling all day and night to come here, Zi Yan was a bit more tanned than before, and also a bit leaner. “His Majesty was worried for Duke Ming and wanted me to catch up with Duke Ming first. Once he finishes the matter in Dong Fan, he will immediately come here.”

Originally, Feng Ming was dancing happily, but after hearing this, his face froze and his head drooped.

“I also guessed that he wouldn’t be here that quick.” After a while, he raised his head, regaining his smile again, he patted Zi Yan on the back and invited him into the cabin, “Whether it’s you or Rong Tian who is here, there is no difference. Let’s do our best, that is what the Prime Minister said...”

For all of Rong Tian’s group, the fact that Zi Yan came was undoubtedly a good thing.

That evening, Chiu Lan prepared some dishes for the private gathering. During dinner, Chiu Yue helped prepare six chairs for Feng Ming, Chiu Yue, Chiu Xing, Chiu Lan, Rong Hu, and Zi Yan, leaving out Luo Yun.

Since he had injured Feng Ming, even Chiu Lan, who treated everyone equally couldn’t bear to see him. Luo Yun did not mind being left out, and as usual stood to one corner while clenching his sword.

Rong Hu began relaying the various things that happened between them and the Xiao family for Zi Yan to hear. Having guessed the reason behind the chairs, Zi Yan felt it was best to remain silent.

Instead, Feng Ming felt uneasy and asked Chiu Yue, “Why are we missing one seat?”

“Are we? I’ll count again, isn’t it only six?” Chiu Yue gave a look at that cruel person, then gave a purely innocent look, “I don’t see a seventh person.”

 “Chiu Xing...”

“I also don’t see anyone else.” The twin sisters really shared one mind.

Feng Ming rolled his eyes. How can they be even more childish than me? They are already not young and yet to play this type of game...

“Luo Yun,” knowing that his female attendants cannot be persuaded, Feng Ming turned around to greet Luo Yun, “You can come here and sit together with us...”

“I’m not hungry.” “Ah...”

The problem wasn’t whether he’s hungry or not. If the Xiao family saw them bully Luo Yun, then this may exacerbate internal conflict...

Luo Yun didn’t care what Feng Ming was thinking inside, he lowered his voice to say, “Young Lord.”

“Yes?”

“The armor from earlier is still quite new. It’s just...one hole... Are you sure you want to throw it away? If so, it’s quite wasteful...Not just that, the surface also has Chiu Yue’s needlework.”

“So what if it’s thrown away?” Chiu Yue couldn’t stand hearing Luo Yun’s voice, she pounded the chopsticks against the table and shouted, “Didn’t you say the Xiao family is ostentatious? Why does one armor even matter? Throwing one away is not up to you. If you find it wasteful, then go ahead and wear it. Our Duke Ming never wears patched up clothes.”

This Chiu Yue, she really doesn’t know how to write the word “death.” Luo Yun’s eyes swept across the room, Rong Hu and Zi Yan’s actions were the same, moving towards Chiu Yue a bit hoping to protect her if needed. Luo Yun only grunted, stood up and walked outside without looking back.

Everyone stared at each other and after a moment of silence, the aroma of the food evoked their appet.i.te.

“Here, let’s eat....”

Without Luo Yun, the atmosphere was a lot better. Feng Ming was still feeling uneasy, but after tasting Chiu Lan’s newest dish, his mood was slightly better.

 Zi Yan began telling them about his journey with Rong Tian from the time they left Yue Zhong until he left.

RH: His Majesty is very careful, even if I’m not useful, the Xiao’s henchmen are not just for namesake. If someone were to injure the Xiao family’s Young Lord under their protection, how would they be able to live up to their reputation?

CL: Didn’t they injured him today? That area is still red. That Luo Yun is really...

Before her words were finished, a figure appeared at the door, it was no one other than Luo Yun. So the saying is true: calling for G.o.d and G.o.d arrives, calling for the Devil and the Devil arrives. Everyone suddenly closed their mouth.

As if he didn’t notice, Luo Yun reported to them, “A spy has came back, does Young Lord want to see him?”

Feng Ming thought for a moment and then shook his head, “If there’s no new information, then I don’t want to see him.” The thought reminded him of arriving to Tong Kingdom and immediately be surrounded by the Tong army made Feng Ming wrinkled his face.

Hopefully, when meeting with the Prince of Tong, Qing Li, he can give Feng Ming a chance to explain to him that he was not his father’s killer.

Hopefully, that man will be reasonable....

Chapter 8

Luo Yun did not say anything, he immediately walked outside to give the order.

Eating halfway, Zi Yan noticed Feng Ming’s frown, he placed his chopsticks down and asked with concern, “Is Duke Ming worried about the Prince of Tong’s hostility towards you? I have heard some news regarding Tong Kingdom while heading here. Along the way, I happened to meet up with Mian Ya who was in charge of gathering information across the realms. He was planning on heading to Fan Jia. Even though Tong Kingdom’s situation pose some risks, but it’s not quite as dangerous as it seems.”

Zi Yan’s cautiousness was comparable to Rong Hu, so when Zi Yan spoke those words, it attracted everyone’s attention.

Feng Ming quickly placed his head closer, eagerly asking, “What is the overall situation then?”

 “Tong Kingdom is currently in disarray. Didn’t Duke Ming hear about this?”

Zi Yan was slightly surprised as he glanced over at Feng Ming, calmly explaining, “When Tong Kingdom’s Great King, Qing Ding was alive, he held complete power, however his younger brother, who is the Royal Uncle of Tong Kingdom’s Crown Prince, Qing Zhang, also had influential power within that nation. After the Great King, Qing Ding died, the Royal Uncle, Qing Zhang seized power, similar to that of the King of Tong.”

Feng Ming silently thought, the correct term should be Regent King. But of course, he wouldn’t be rude to interrupt Zi Yan at this time so he continued to listen obediently.

“Right now, even though Qing Ding is dead, Tong Kingdom’s Crown Prince has no way of seizing power.”

“Ah? Why not?” Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing asked together in a sweet and surprised tone of voice.

“Because Qing Zhang is holding onto the current power. Qing Zhang has been reluctant to admit that his brother Qing Ding has died. Since the King is not dead, of course, it is impossible for the Crown Prince to ascend to the throne. And since the Crown Prince cannot reign, then he is also unable to retrieve the monarch power from his Uncle’s hands.”

Chiu Lan’s face was at a loss, “Qing Ding is obviously dead, that is what all the other nations have rumored, how can he not admit to it?”

Zi Yan smiled and asked, “Rumors are just rumors. Tong Kingdom’s Crown Prince, Qing Li, has no evidence to prove that it’s true.”

Feng Ming was deep in thought, after a moment, he finally realized and with wide eyes, he shouted, “I understand now!”

Chiu Yue quickly asked, “What does Duke Ming understand?”

“I understand why the Crown Prince of Tong wanted to kill me to avenge his father. It"s to prove that Qing Ding is dead which will make Qing Li rightfully inherit the throne left by his father. Therefore, right now, Qing Li’s priority is to have everyone admit that his father is dead. If Qing Ding was killed then he needs to search for his father’s killer. Qing Li couldn’t find the real killers, therefore, he decided to accuse me, all thanks to my well­known status. Also, it would be in his best interest to frame me. He continues to accuse me as the murderer to prove to everyone that his father was killed. How hateful! What a disgrace! Even though he knows I’m innocent, he will surely try to eliminate me! He"s clearly only thinking about his own throne! Shameless! Ah, I was even planning on reasoning with him that I wasn’t the culprit...”

 Seeing Feng Ming’s upset face, Zi Yan was reminded of what Rong Tian had said about Feng Ming’s cute expressions. He couldn’t help but smile kindly and said, “Duke Ming mustn’t be upset right away. Even if Qing Li wishes to take Duke Ming’s life for his own purpose, there"s still one person who will not allow that.”

Feng Ming straightened himself. Blinking his round eyes, he immediately nodded his head as if he understood.

That’s right, Qing Zhang will not allow him to do that.

First of all, if that happens, Tong Kingdom will offend both Rong Tian and the Xiao family. Secondly, if he allowed Qing Li to use the excuse of avenging his father to harm Feng Ming, then wouldn’t he openly admit that Qing Ding is dead? By then, Qing Zhang would have to immediately return the rightful power to his nephew.

Thinking about that, Feng Ming became relieved. His almond eyes gleamed as he chuckled, “Hehe, within Tong Kingdom, Qing Zhang is the one who holds the most power.”

Zi Yan silently praised him for his quick realization, and he nodded his head, “That’s why in your journey to Tong Kingdom, Duke Ming only need to take advantage of the conflict between their uncle/nephew relations.h.i.+p in order to pa.s.s through with ease. Qing Zhang is currently holding military power, if Qing Zhang is willing to protect Duke Ming, then Duke Ming"s safety is guaranteed.”

“Great!” Feng Ming applauded heartily, his face filled with exhilaration, “Great! Haha! I knew that things have changed for the better! Haha!”

All of his three female attendants’ eyes s.h.i.+ned, jumped for joy as they huddled together to cheer and applaud. The guards who were standing guard outside shook their heads after hearing the sudden loud noise inside. They didn’t know what fresh tricks Duke Ming had prepared this time.

After a while, they finally settled down. This time, Feng Ming and Chiu Lan noticed that Rong Hu and Zi Yan were still sitting unmoved like a mountain in their seats. Rong Hu’s face was a little more solemn.

“Rong Hu?”

“Even though this news is of private matter within the royal family of Tong Kingdom, but it is not considered top­secret. Mian Ya was able to retrieve the information so why weren’t we aware of it?” Rong Hu lowered his voice, “If we knew of this earlier, Duke Ming wouldn’t have to be worried for many days now.”

 Zi Yan added, “I, too, feel that this matter is very strange.”

This is a big problem that shouldn’t be ignored. The group of female attendants who are usually clueless about these schemes immediately focused their attention. “After boarding the s.h.i.+p, the spies we sent out belonged to the Xiao family. The news informed to us were all from the Xiao family.” Rong Hu finally realized why the Prime Minister Lie Zhong Liu sent Mian Ya to gather information.

If they didn’t have Mian Ya, the person who Rong Tian appointed as leader of the spies to be next to Feng Ming, then they would have to rely all of their news and information on the Xiao Family, which shouldn’t be a problem.

However, it’s very difficult to believe that the Xiao Family’s information gathering network would be so incompetent like this. They should know that as a.s.sa.s.sins, they first need to have an accurate and correct information, otherwise, how can they carefully arrange a successful a.s.sa.s.sination attempt?

Chiu Xing asked frightfully, “Could it be that Luo Yun have been concealing this information?”

“That’s not possible.” It’s unbelievable that Luo Yun’s big adversary, Chiu Yue was the one to speak on his behalf. “I remembered that the one who said Qing Li wanted to slice Duke Ming into thousand of pieces was not Luo Yun, but Luo Ning.” Seeing everyone curiously staring at her, Chiu Yue’s cheeks reddened, and she pouted her lips, “Why are you looking at me like this? I’m just saying the truth, it’s not like I’m purposely helping that sc.u.mbag.”

“Both father and son love to bully Duke Ming, isn’t it the same thing?” Chiu Xing muttered.

“Whether it’s Luo Yun or Luo Ning, they are both important figures within the Xiao Family. If they are secretly scheming against Duke Ming, then the consequences may be very dire.” Rong Hu was silent for a moment, narrowing his eyebrows, he said, “However, the highly skilled a.s.sa.s.sins usually frown upon backstabbing schemes. This doesn’t look like something the father and son would do.”

Zi Yan didn’t expect to encounter such a crucial matter upon arrival. Carefully pondering for a while, he softly said, “First, let’s not suspect anything. If they truly wanted to harm Duke Ming, then Duke Ming would"ve already been dead. Right now, we have to carefully investigate who is in charge of the Xiao Family’s information gathering.”

"I’ll go investigate this matter.” Rong Hu answered.

Zi Yan and him exchanged glances. They have worked together for a long time, so one glance was enough to communicate their intentions.

 Zi Yan stood up, tiredly stretching himself, “The Xiao Family’s information gathering situation will be handled by Rong Hu. It seems that I will need to head to Tong Kingdom immediately.”

Feng Ming jumped up in shock, he didn’t want to give in, “You just came, so why are you suddenly leaving now?”

ZY: Mian Ya has left for Fan Jia, therefore, we are short of someone to gather precise information. If you were to continue onwards, wouldn’t it be dangerous? I must be one step further, before Duke Ming reaches Tong Kingdom, I will be a good spy for you. The situation at the moment does not seem simple, Duke Ming has to be careful while on board.

Chiu Yue urgently declared, “You must stay on board in case something really happens so we can deal with it together.”

Zi Yan chuckled, “If Luo Ning, the commander of the a.s.sa.s.sination group, truly wants to take Duke Ming’s life, with their martial arts and number, even with an additional person like me, we won’t be able to stop them. If I stay here, I’ll just be buried along with all of you. Not to mention, I don’t think he is the one behind concealing information. I have heard of his name for many years along with his personality. It isn’t like that, and also, why would he want to kill Duke Ming? Everything is just speculation, please rest a.s.sured. Judging by the present situation, even if there is danger, it would only be along the borders of Tong Kingdom. After all, Duke Ming is publicly acknowledged as Holy Master Xiao’s son, who would dare to make a move towards him? If they dare to, it would be ‘b orrowing someone’s knife to do the deal’ , they wouldn’t personally do it themselves.”

Feng Ming heard the firmness in his voice and knew that Zi Yan had already decided. Staring at him, Feng Ming said, “Zi Yan, the situation in Tong Kingdom is in chaos, you have to understand that we are not the same. I have lots of bodyguards, but you are just one person.”

Zi Yan grinned showing his snow white teeth, “Rest a.s.sured Duke Ming, I’m very familiar with Tong Kingdom. Every year, His Majesty would relocate some of us to hide along the sea of Tong Kingdom. We would often be near the Dan Lin Strait. If something were to happen while I’m in Tong Kingdom, I will immediately flee towards the sea, I’ll guarantee that they will search in vain without finding a single strand of my hair.”

His calm composure greatly eased the tension in the room. Feng Ming laughed after hearing his words, “Ah, talking about Dan Lin Strait, I suddenly remember this vexing problem. I also have to open up a safe water route for transporting the luminescent sand, that place that has lots of pirates...”

 “After I reach Tong Kingdom, I will investigate about these pirates for Duke Ming,” Zi Yan abruptly interrupted Feng Ming, “When I leave this time, I will try my best to return before Duke Ming’s large s.h.i.+p enter Tong Kingdom’s territory.”

Zi Yan walked over to Rong Hu, whispered a few words to him and then turned around to stare at Feng Ming, putting on a confident smile, he said, “His Majesty said, he wants Duke Ming to obediently wait for his return, Duke Ming, please take care.” In a flash, Zi Yan’s image disappeared behind the door.

There were only five people inside the room. Rong Hu didn’t have time to spare, he looked up and said, “I will go investigate about the person in charge of overseeing the information gathering of the Xiao family.” Without waiting for Feng Ming to nod his head, Rong Hu had voluntarily walked out.

Seeing Rong Hu leave, Chiu Lan turned over to Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing and whispered, “Starting today, when Duke Ming sleeps, we will not allow Luo Yun to stand guard.”

Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing unrelentingly nodded, both desperate to protect Duke Ming’s handsome appearance. However, Chiu Yue still solemnly protested, “But I still don’t believe that Luo Yun would want to harm Duke Ming, his kind of person....”

“It’s not just you that doesn’t believe it, even I can"t believe it, also I don’t think Luo Yun is such a bad person, even though his demeanor is fierce. However, we still have to take precaution, be a bit more careful, even if Zi Yan and Rong Hu don’’t suspect them. The three of us will stand watch just like before, taking turns each night. We won’t be standing guard outside the room, but instead stand guard along with Luo Yun in front of Duke Ming’s bed.”

Feng Ming watched as his three female attendants huddled together to carefully negotiate an important business.

G.o.d...

Oh Prime Minister, just like you said, this journey is filled with many twists, every day is something new. The fact is I will most definitely be under layers and layers of protection just because of that indomitable dream? Right now, it feels like I’m a young tree being protected by many.... Feng Ming let out a long sigh. Right now, the dishes on the table were still warm.

Underneath the gentle moonlight, the large s.h.i.+p of the famous Xiao was slowly advancing towards Tong Kingdom.

============ Fan Jia territory.

 Under the same moon, there is a huge and magnificent fleet of carriages, riding along with an army of elite men from Li Kingdom, slowly advancing towards the direction of Fan Jia’s capital.

The largest among those carriages was being pulled by sixteen strong horses uniformly marching forward.

The decorated gilded carriage, a gorgeous breathtaking sight, wrapped around the carriage, is a dark curtain embroidered with gold threads. An image of a phoenix like bird preparing for flight was sewn onto the curtain of the horse carriage.

The front and the back of the carriage were guarded by countless soldiers. Numerous armors and sharp swords along with spears were sparkling under the chilling moonlight. In the depths of the night, the army continued marching, but no one actually dared to make random noises or conversation.

As the silent army marched forward, the black and gold magnificent carriage was the secretive main focus of this journey. A cruel and cold evil overlord, who is able to spread fear, numbing the hands and feet of any person who sees him.

Inside that carriage, a devil lay hidden.

Perhaps, it was indeed a hidden devil. This carriage, ever since it had departed, had been quickly advancing towards Fan Jia’s capital.

During this short journey, behind the dark curtains, there have been numerous execution commands sent down and every edict was executed out.

After Fan Jia"s royal family lost their last royal bloodline, the Third Princess, along with the Great King Long Tian, Fan Jia has become an unprecedented weak nation. Blood was splattered across the nation, losing its warmth after seconds. All of the officials and n.o.bles of Fan Jia, who were brave enough to oppose Li army from seizing the capital were forever silenced.

“Your...Majesty...” Behind the black curtain, a weeping cry was heard for a second before it dissipated in the wind.

That was the cry of Si Qiang, who was cleanly stripped down like a lamb, laying supine, with his legs spread open. Si Qiang’s eyes reflected the image of a non­defying, cold­hearted, powerful man.

 No sense of pity came from the man, it seemed as if the young man’s body was accustomed to such deep piercing.

Si Qiang’s pet.i.te body s.h.i.+vered as he cried out against the icy palm of royalty, stroking him miserably, “Your Majesty....”

He touched the King’s neck. He couldn’t believe that a man as tough as iron, with years of practicing martial arts, would have such beautiful toned muscles like this. Si Qiang cried as he wrapped his arms around the Great King. He knew this was the strongest man he had ever met in his life, enough to make any young man’s spirit go wild.

In contrast to Si Qiang’s moaning, Ruo Yan’s eyes were exceptionally clear.

“Let go.” Ruo Yan tossed Si Qiang’s arms aside, which were wrapped around his neck. He swiftly and forcefully turned over the person lying under him, leaving the young man on his knees with his back towards him.

Because of the sudden change in position, the fiery weapon reached his deepest spot.

Si Qiang screamed out in tears. Previously, this man had vented himself several times which made his twin cheeks and thighs swollen red. This kind of terrifying pain mixed with pleasure traveled through his spine up to his temples. It gave him a sudden rush, making him unable to support himself much longer and he started slumping down.

Ruo Yan hadn’t finished yet so he didn’t allow the young man any moment of rest. Reaching out his hands, he grabbed onto the young man’s waist and continued with the intense thrusts. Si Qiang’s legs were opened to its maximum capacity. He seemed unconscious, except for the occasional twitching, just like someone being pulled from a nightmare. The thrusting rhythm coming from behind kept its fast pace. “Ah ­­­ Ow ­­­­” The insufferable pain left Si Qiang speechless to the point where he regained consciousness. His face slightly distorted and his limbs for the second time quivered against the fierce thrusts, “Ah!”

What seemed to flare up inside his body almost scorched him. But at the same time, it surprisingly filled him.

The musky male scent of arrogance filled every inch of the enclosed carriage. On the symmetrically handsome face of Ruo Yan was a hint of satisfaction, but it was short­lived. After finding release, he indifferently let go of Si Qiang, who slumped down onto the soft blanket. From beginning to end, there was no trace of a smile on his face. Even his eyes were ice cold.

 “Your Majesty...” Si Qiang turned himself over on the blanket, ignoring the beautiful white fluid stains, he looked towards the strong man who had just almost thrust him to death. His harsh voice was softer after the flip, he endearingly said, “Just now....”

“If you still dare to speak while I’m bedding you, I will immediately cut off your tongue.” A moment ago, Ruo Yan had released himself inside Si Qiang, but his gaze right now was as if he was looking at a stranger, “Also, don’t use your hands to hug me.”

He stood up, his tall firm body appeared even more oppressive within the limited s.p.a.ce inside the carriage.

Hearing the heartless warning, Si Qiang bit his lower lip, lying still; he looked up and used a prepared clean soft towel to wipe the lower portion of the Great Kings body. While personally dressing himself, Ruo Yan ignored the young man. After all, he wasn’t Feng Ming...

If he was the smart, stubborn Duke Ming, how can he succ.u.mb so easily? Not having any shame and even daring to hold his neck, moaning like some vile wh.o.r.e?

No matter how similar in appearance, maybe with closed eyes, you can imagine the similarities, but underneath all, there is only one Duke Ming.

Filled with disgust, Ruo Yan turned around and sat down in front of the table, no longer glancing at the alluring playmate he had been charmed with.

If only he was holding that person, if only the moaning was of that person, if only the arms that wrapped around his neck belonged to that person...

“Reporting to Your Majesty, an urgent letter!” A loud voice came from outside the horse carriage interrupting his “if onlys.”

Miao Guang’s letter came. Ruo Yan opened up the letter sent by his sister from afar. Under the candlelight, line by line, he slowly read every word.

Duke Ming has fallen into the trap, whether it’s successful or not, just a few more days and he’ll know.

This one line, he read three to four times, very slowly, as if chewing a very sweet taste of olives. His face always appeared cruel and indifferent, but this time a faint trace of gentleness appeared. This gentle aura had completely changed the overall character of him.

Si Qiang, who had withdrawn to one side with swollen red eyes, held his breath. He couldn’t believe as he gazed at the handsome stern looking face of Ruo Yan that his demeanor instantly changed.

 Impossible!

He can’t believe that the King of Li...could also have this kind of expression.

Si Qiang always thought a few days ago that he would not have been loved by the King, but unexpectedly he was favored and in that moment, his entire life belonged to that man.

However, that was not true.

“Si Qiang, come here.” Noticing that Si Qiang’s gaze have been fixated on his face, Ruo Yan put down Miao Guang’s letter and faintly called out.

Perhaps he was in a good mood, calling for his beloved catamite, giving the trembling young man, who haven’t finished cleaning himself, permission to nestle next to him.

Ruo Yan gently ordered, “Close your eyes.”

This tone of voice, along with the strict order Ruo Yan told Si Qiang awhile ago regarding touching him was completely different as night and day.

Si Qiang obediently closed his eyes, tilting his head slightly.

He held his breath, waiting anxiously, because he knew, the Great King will kiss him.

Moreover, it will be a very gentle one.

He slowly clenched his fist, anxiously tense, almost wanting to bite his lower lip with his teeth.

Your Majesty....

The heat gradually closed in.

When the Great King’s lips filled with pa.s.sion covered his own, Si Qiang knew the corner of his eyes were already moist.

This was obviously an affectionate kiss, where the tip of the man’s tongue filled the depths of his throat, greedily sucking, he refused to let go.

Nothing could have made Si Qiang burst into tears as much as this.

 Before this, it was only an overbearing force without any mercy. But now, the Great King even used his both arms to hug him, pulling him against his body, deepening their kiss without a moment to breathe.

It doesn’t matter.

It doesn’t matter if he can’t breathe.

This man’s breath was enough to make him forget to breathe, even in his own body. Dying in the arms of a powerful man is a supreme honor.

The Great King, my Great King...

Si Qiang bravely held onto Ruo Yan, kissing him deeply, the yearning infatuation and dream that this life would never fade...

“Feng Ming...”

Ruo Yan moaned in a m.u.f.fled voice, bringing Si Qiang’s beautiful dream on cloud nine back down.

Within seconds, Si Qiang’s whole body stiffened up. “Feng Ming, my Duke Ming...Feng Ming...”

Each sigh was a knife cutting into Si Qiang to the point he despised himself for not being able to commit suicide.

Not only was he severely dragged down from cloud nine, but he also felt he was once again torn to pieces.

END OF VOLUME 13