Chapter 1678: The Fierce Beasts Run Amok

Qiao Rou was amused by her words. "You're good at speaking positively, but that person isn't that important. How does that translate to great merit?"

"Words may not say everything. Young Master Jiang wouldn't take action unless it involves capturing someone significant."

Once this topic was introduced, it became easier to continue probing.

Xia Yi was a cautious and perceptive individual. Given Qiao Rou's previous lower status, few people tried to please her. Now, every word from Xia Yi was tickling her senses, quickly garnering her attention.

After about two hours, Xia Yi left Qiao Rou's room feeling satisfied.

As she emerged, she slightly lowered her head and appeared timid, trying to avoid others as she walked forward.

She had already learned from Qiao Rou where the head of the Mengs family, was being held. However, given her current status and situation, it wasn't appropriate for her to attempt a rescue alone.

She needed to find Meng Yunzheng and Shu Yu first to discuss the rescue plan.

However, at the moment, they didn't know where to find them. It wasn't easy to meet up in such a large black market.

Xia Yi thought for a moment and could only go to the predetermined location and wait.

Unfortunately, there were still two hours until the appointed time.

Just as Xia Yi was about to go there, a series of terrified screams suddenly rang in her ears.

These screams were mixed with roars that seemed to make her eardrums ache with their intensity.

She raised her head abruptly, and her expression changed drastically the next moment. She took several steps back, her gaze reflecting a scene that made her draw in a cold breath.

"Roar..."

The scene before her was bloody and brutal. Tigers, wolves, lions, bears, and other wild beasts that should have been confined in cages were rampaging through the hall, attacking people in the black market without restraint, as if they were starving, their mouths opening wide for a deadly bite.

Xia Yi widened her eyes, unable to understand why the beasts from the beast camp would suddenly run rampant like this.

The number of guards in the black market wasn't large to begin with, and those who possessed some fighting ability were even scarcer. Many who were strong and robust had been taken away earlier to pose as bandits in preparation for battle.

Among those who remained, those with fighting skills were usually positioned around the leaders and managers. The others were simply relying on their physique and strength.

However, these strengths were no match for the ferocious beasts that had grown accustomed to the taste of meat and had slain humans in the dueling arena. They had no defense whatsoever.

A few individuals were directly swatted away by a massive brown bear, crashing into the wall and then falling down. They struggled a bit on the ground before falling silent.

A few others were desperately struggling and crying for help as they were clamped in the jaws of tigers and wolves, but no one dared to save them.

The black market was filled with fleeing crowds. Some managed to dash into rooms and lock the doors behind them, but those doors were no match for the bear's strength; they were smashed open in an instant.

"Ahh..."

"Help..."

"Quick, where's the knife? Kill them!"

"We can't, if these beasts die, the boss will kill us!"

"No choice... get a rope, tie them up!"

The scene was gruesome, and the cries were incessant. Yet, hardly anyone dared to face these fierce beasts head-on; their only choices were to flee.

They had never imagined that one day they would experience the same fear as those who had stood on the dueling arena.

Xia Yi took several steps back, her eyes displaying a resolute determination.

If she didn't save people now, it would be a wasted opportunity amidst the chaos.

 Chapter 1676: Returning Empty-handed

Shu Yu was unaware of the convoluted thoughts running through the bandit's mind. After Xia Yi left, she couldn't help but look back at Jiang Kuanyu.

She watched as his figure disappeared around the corner.

That direction... seemed to be where the cells were located.

Why would Jiang Kuanyu go to the cells? Shu Yu couldn't help but feel relieved that they had come out early. Otherwise, given the cramped space in the cells, a collision was inevitable.

Jiang Kuanyu was a meticulous person; it seemed she might be exposed soon.

She sighed in relief, withdrew her gaze, and continued walking deeper into the hideout behind the bandits.

Now that Jiang Kuanyu wasn't present, it was the perfect opportunity to visit his dwelling.

The underground market wasn't crowded with people. The bandit led them up a level, exchanged a few words with the guards at the staircase, and then took them directly inside.

The atmosphere on this level was entirely different from the one below. It was much quieter and tidier here. The rooms were exquisitely decorated, some of which seemed to be private compartments.

After circling around, they reached the innermost room. The bandit finally stopped and lowered his voice, "These two rooms are where Jiang Kuanyu usually works and rests. Luckily, you're looking for him. Young Master Jiang hasn't been in the underground market for long, so his rooms are on the second floor. If you're looking for other stewards, you'll have to go up another level. There are more guards up there, even I can't go."

The second floor mostly consisted of private compartments meant for hosting esteemed guests, with a few rooms serving as offices for stewards to work.

Given the shortage of manpower, except for guards at the staircase and a couple of corners, the rest of the area was mostly vacant.

Shu Yu and Meng Yun Zheng exchanged a glance and looked at the rooms before them.

The bandit said, "I just asked around. There's no one inside. Jiang Kuan Yu took his subordinates with him. I'll keep an eye out here, you can go in by yourselves."

He anxiously urged them, "Hurry up. If you find the person, bring them out quickly and give me the antidote."

"Alright, we'll handle it."

Meng Yunzheng looked around, not seeing anyone watching in their direction, and he and Shu Yu stealthily entered the room.

The room was quite spacious, furnished with tables, chairs, and even a bed behind a folding screen for resting.

After a quick survey without daring to disturb anything, they were afraid that Jiang Kuanyu would notice something amiss if he came back. Their priority was finding Meng Xiao Shu and Meng Pei and getting them out.

However, the room was empty, with no hidden doors or signs of a struggle. Their mission was in vain.

Returning empty-handed, the two of them didn't waste any time and left the room neatly.

Seeing only the two of them exit, the bandit appeared disappointed, "No one inside?"

"Yeah, no one inside."

The bandit frowned, "Not here, not in the cells. Then where could they be?"

"Do you usually lock up captives directly in the cells?"

The bandit thought for a moment and shook his head, "Not necessarily. Most of the time, whoever captures someone is responsible for interrogating them. Once that's done, they decide how to proceed. If they're not useful, they're thrown into the cells and brought to the dueling platform later. Young Master Jiang captured your uncle, but he wasn't in the cells. Either he hasn't been interrogated, or he's already dead..."

Seeing Meng Yunzheng's icy gaze turning toward him, he couldn't help but take a step back, "You asked, and I told you the truth. I think he's probably dead. After all, there's no one in the cells, and there's no one here with Young Master Jiang, right?"

 Chapter 244.1: Reuniting

Soon, a soldier from the Xu army reported, “Great General… a large force approaches from the southwest. Judging by their banners, they are the garrison of Xuanzhou!”

Xu Zhengye gripped his sword, which hadn’t yet been unsheathed.

The news didn’t surprise him, for he had already learned that Xuanzhou had mobilized troops…

For that reason, he had personally led his army to guard against any contingency.

Yet, until this moment, a sense of uncertainty lingered—he could not imagine why Xuanzhou would send reinforcements to Hezhou…

At this very moment, the question still puzzled him—why would Xuanzhou wade into this mess? This was utterly unlike the conduct of Marchioness Xuanzhou!

No matter what he thought, the fact was evident:

The Xuanzhou army was rapidly approaching.

Even more shocking to Xu Zhengye was the leader of the advancing troops.

The army emerged from the southwest and merged toward the Huzhou army’s position. At the front came two military commanders, alongside the figure of a woman.

The woman rode a horse, clad in armor with a sword at her side, her armor draped with a cloak. She lifted the hood of her cloak, revealing a dignified, serene face under the torchlight.

Xu Zhengye’s expression shifted: “…Marchioness?”

The Marchioness of Xuanzhou herself had come!

She had not left Xuanzhou for years, yet today she led troops in person to aid Hezhou!

Xu Zhengye found this almost incomprehensible—there must be hidden motives he didn’t know…

He furrowed his brows.

The Marchioness of Xuanzhou looked at him: “Great General Xu, long time no see.”

Seeing that face and hearing that voice, Chang Kuo was equally shocked—he jumped slightly—how had she come!

Upon seeing the sudden arrival of reinforcements, Deputy General Jin, though excited, instinctively looked to his general for reaction. Chang Kuo furrowed his brow and glared, his expression difficult to read.

Upon closer observation, Deputy General Jin felt that the general’s response was akin to someone politely receiving a gift from a guest when he didn’t want to prepare a meal—just accept it, why all the fuss?

Meanwhile, Xu Zhengye, maintaining his composure, tested the situation: “I wonder, Marchioness, what brings you to lead your troops personally?”

The Marchioness of Xuanzhou gave a cold laugh: “It is I who should ask you, Great General Xu—did you ever consider my opinion before extending your hand toward Hezhou?”

Xu Zhengye’s brows tightened: “I do not understand your meaning; please speak plainly—”

He did not wish to become the Marchioness’s enemy. Her status was unlike that of an ordinary princess; she was the late emperor’s full sister, favored from childhood, and granted Xuanzhou as her fiefdom upon reaching adulthood.

Among the eighteen prefectures of the Jiangnan West Circuit, Xuanzhou governed the largest territory, with over 120,000 households, making it the wealthiest region of the circuit.

Xuanzhou had no military commissioner, and over the years, other prefectures had implicitly acknowledged Xuanzhou as first among them.

Granting the fief to a princess underscored Emperor Qingfeng’s affection; while she indulged herself, she was rarely held accountable.

In the eyes of many, her long-standing indulgence in Xuanzhou had shaped her arrogant and unrestrained temperament.

After the late emperor’s death, succession turbulence followed. Many officials and royals sought her intervention, all refused.

No matter the chaos in the court, she lived in Xuanzhou, drinking and enjoying life.

Yet her influence was deeply rooted; she held power akin to a regional prince and could not be underestimated.

During the deposed emperor’s reign, an appointed Prime Minister attempted to oversee Xuanzhou on the Marchioness’s behalf, but she rejected him outright, deeming him unbearable to behold. The Prime Minister later hanged himself in shame upon returning to the capital.

Thus, the Marchioness never involved herself in court matters, but no one could cross her boundaries.

After the female emperor ascended, the Marchioness raised no objection and maintained a neutral stance.

Even officials wary of her could find no fault beyond her indulgence in male companions.

When Xu Zhengye rose in rebellion, he had attempted to enlist her support, sending a sincere letter via Luo Guanlin. The Marchioness had casually burned the letter before the messenger, sending him away.

She had rejected Xu Zhengye before.

Yet, refusal did not mean enmity; she was not under the female emperor’s control.

Then why did she come today?

“What do you mean by extending your hand to Hezhou without consulting me? Hezhou is not even part of your Xuanzhou!”

The Marchioness’s voice was cold and commanding: “Hezhou borders my Xuanzhou, only a few hundred li apart. Today you dare kill and plunder at my doorstep—how do I know you won’t encroach on Xuanzhou tomorrow?”

She scolded him: “Great General Xu, remember—when hitting a dog, one must consider the owner!”

Xu Zhengye: “……”

Yun Hui: “……”

Well, as long as she helps, let the dog bark.

“I have always respected the Marchioness. Loyal to the Li dynasty, my actions are righteous. How could I offend Xuanzhou? My aim at Hezhou is forced by circumstances,” he said, looking at the Hezhou army with some pain: “If Hezhou opens the path of righteousness, allowing me to enter the capital to aid the Crown Prince, I would not harm innocents.”

The Marchioness of Xuanzhou scoffed: “Those words may fool the world, but do not attempt them on me.”

“I do not care what schemes you pursue. Since your uprising, countless refugees have crossed Xuanzhou, disturbing the Jiangnan West Circuit. Your forces have plundered trade routes and disrupted local commerce. How can you claim innocence?”

Xu Zhengye’s face turned pale as he said, “If my subordinates acted improperly, I hope you will forgive them; I will restrain them strictly in the future…”

The Marchioness’s anger did not subside: “You destroy one city after another. Hezhou borders Xuanzhou; historically, one-tenth of all paper and ink produced in Xuanzhou flows to Hezhou. Now mountains of paper and ink accumulate in Xuanzhou—can you buy it all or consume it?”

“Better to eat it, since it is all blackened water anyway—should be fed with ink!”

A young female voice sounded. Chang Suining turned to see Li Tong riding up from the rear.

Li Tong’s gaze quickly found Chang Suining, hurrying over.

The Marchioness of Xuanzhou dropped her final words decisively: “Have you thought about Huainan Circuit? If you have the ability, try to take Hezhou by fighting past Li Yi or via the Chaohu Lake route. I will not allow it—come and try if you dare!”

Xu Zhengye’s face darkened. The Marchioness was determined to protect Hezhou…

Trade routes and wealth aside, to discuss them now under these circumstances was excessively domineering!

Soon, a scout returned. The deputy general whispered to him, “Great General, the scout reports that the Marchioness of Xuanzhou brought only 30,000 troops…”

 Chapter 243.2: Don’t You Think It’s Absurd? (Continued)

“Single combat is fine.” Chang Suining raised her hand, pointing first at the Golden Deputy General, then herself, then Chang Kuo, and finally back to the soldiers behind Chang Kuo—ten or more in total—before stopping: “You alone, duel all thirteen of us.”

Xu Zhengye: “……”

The Golden Deputy General and the others pointed at were strangely silent.

The idea conveyed by this kind of “single combat” seemed far too unconventional, difficult for others to accept—especially the opponent.

Xu Zhengye had no desire to speak further to this spouting girl, yet Chang Kuo let her talk freely, not interrupting at all, acting almost like a loyal old hound, wagging its tail in agreement with no independent will.

Xu Zhengye could only coldly laugh: “Young lady, don’t you find this absurd?”

“Absurd?” Chang Suining paused in mock thought: “Compared to the prime General Xu, well-fed, coming to challenge my father—who hasn’t eaten all day and is near exhaustion—single-handedly, it doesn’t seem so absurd.”

“In that case, my proposal that General Xu duel all thirteen of us, who are utterly exhausted, seems reasonable, doesn’t it?”

Xu Zhengye’s expression shifted; a sarcastic, cold smile appeared in his eyes.

Some things may be true, but speaking them aloud would show reckless boldness.

After all, who currently held the initiative was clear before him.

He narrowed his eyes: “It seems the Chang family lady is determined to use the lives of her soldiers to score points in rhetoric, insisting on acting on impulse.”

“Not necessarily,” Chang Suining smiled faintly: “General Xu, making such a bold proposal to duel my father, may wish to resolve this quickly—not just to avoid further troop losses, but perhaps also to advance his strategy of continued assault on Hezhou, beyond what it appears on the surface?”

Yun Hui and the Deputy General did not understand.

Xu Zhengye’s eyes, however, showed subtle change.

Was she bluffing, or… did she know something? Had she prepared in advance?

Seeing his hesitation, Chang Suining confirmed her suspicion, calming her heart.

During battle, with the city gates closed, Hezhou was in a precarious position and messages could not be sent promptly—but Xu Zhengye was different. Controlling the surrounding cities and routes, he would surely have timely information.

Chang Suining exchanged a glance with Chang Kuo.

Xu Zhengye weighed the situation briefly, looking toward the Hezhou city gate before him, his thoughts racing.

He had already spent too much time and lost too many troops to take Hezhou… if he withdrew now, letting them recover and reinforce, it would only make a future assault more difficult.

Hezhou—he must take it!

As for the earlier disturbance—it might not even be related to Hezhou…

The deputy at his side could no longer contain his desire for revenge, glancing fiercely at the Hezhou army, then cupped his fists to report: “Please, General, give the order!”

The Deputy General and the others, taut as bowstrings, watched Xu Zhengye closely.

Snowflakes flickered in the torchlight. Xu Zhengye focused and said firmly: “Soldiers, follow me to assault the city! Today, your lodging will be within Hezhou city!”

He could not let a minor disturbance stall him and waste the opportunity!

With the general’s banner waved, the army began forming ranks, ready to surge forward.

Xu Zhengye’s name alone carried prestige and morale. With fifty thousand soldiers under him, leading personally, he now treated Hezhou as already in his grasp.

The Hezhou soldiers behind Chang Kuo were fatigued or wounded; no amount of fighting spirit could sustain their exhausted bodies.

“Wait!” At the critical moment, Chang Kuo suddenly raised his hand.

Xu Zhengye looked at him.

Chang Kuo swung his sword: “Come, I’ll duel you first!”

Xu Zhengye sneered: “Too late!”

With that, he raised his hand again, and the army surged forward.

“Who says it’s too late?” Chang Suining said, taking something out, lighting its fuse on a torch held by a nearby soldier, then tossing it into the air.

The object rose into the night sky, bursting with a loud sound into golden fireworks.

Everyone’s gaze followed instinctively.

The fireworks quickly faded, leaving only the faint smell of gunpowder and residual ash drifting with the snow.

Soon, a similar sound arose again.

One burst, two, three…

But it no longer came from her hands.

Looking up, everyone saw golden fireworks appearing successively in the southwest night sky.

One, two, three…

—What was that?

—Who was responding?!

Everyone’s expressions changed in shock.

From that direction…

Xu Zhengye’s face tightened. He immediately signaled the army to halt and looked again at the girl.

Chang Suining met his gaze: “Not too late, just in time.”

Since Xu Zhengye reacted at the news, it proved the disturbance was nearby—thus, not late at all.

Yun Hui tried to tug at her armor, asking seriously: “Young Miss Chang, what is that…”

Chang Suining lowered her eyes: “Reinforcements.”

Reinforcements?!

Yun Hui stared, incredulous. Where would reinforcements come from? The imperial troops were now under Li Yi—how could they assist Hezhou?

Of course, they were not imperial reinforcements.

All of this traced back to a letter Chang Suining had sent out before coming to Hezhou.

“Reinforcements!”

“Our reinforcements have arrived!”

Shouts spread through the Hezhou army, and soldiers cheered.

Yun Hui, however, felt uneasy.

Based on his knowledge of Chang Suining… this talk of reinforcements could very well be a bluff!

As for the fireworks responding to her signal, perhaps she had secretly arranged people elsewhere to create the effect, intentionally misleading Xu Zhengye’s army…

Earlier, such a trick might have been enough to scare the enemy, but with Xu Zhengye present, they would not retreat easily.

Yun Hui’s heart raced, trying to read a clue from Chang Suining’s face, but she remained calm and composed.

He recalled the first time they met, when she pretended to have 100,000 reinforcements—she had been arrogantly invincible, even fooling him.

Now, Yun Hui’s anxiety was palpable; compared to actual reinforcements, he felt it would be more practical to pray for divine intervention… he wondered if it was too late to pray for the Buddha’s blessing now.

Until he truly heard the sound of galloping hooves approaching.

 Chapter 864: The Announcement of the Civil Examination Results (2)

One of the scholars sitting nearby was not from the capital. While he had heard about the notorious cheating scandal that had stirred up the capital the previous year, he did not know the details or recognize the person involved, who was called Mo Qingze, with the courtesy name Ziyu. He had only heard that Mo Qingze was a learned man who had dazzled the court with his extensive knowledge, particularly during the Taihe Hall examination, making a name for himself. However, he had never actually seen this legendary figure in person.

Upon hearing that the person with such remarkable bearing was indeed Mo Ziyu, the scholar turned to look. He was somewhat disappointed to find that the man, who was supposed to be an exceptional and extraordinary person, appeared to be just a regular man, gently speaking with a little girl, without the mysterious air one might expect from a legendary figure. "I thought Young Master Ziyu would be some kind of transcendent figure, but he just seems like an ordinary man after all," he muttered.

The scholar who had initially admired Mo Qingze’s talents couldn’t stand this disrespect. His face darkened, and he replied coldly, "If you haven't seen Young Master Ziyu's true abilities, don't jump to conclusions! No matter how extraordinary someone is, they are still human and will love their children, unlike some people who, with just a little talent, act as if they're the greatest, only to expose their shallow understanding in the process."

His companion, not a fool, quickly understood that the comment was aimed at him. His face flushed with embarrassment, and he was about to rise and argue, but someone from the neighboring table spoke up, "What he said isn’t wrong. Why are you getting so worked up? Young Master Ziyu’s talent has even been praised by the Emperor himself. If you disagree, you can challenge him to a contest right now."

This speaker was from the capital, having recognized Mo Qingze. When he heard the conversation at the neighboring table, he couldn’t resist standing up for Mo Qingze. 

Hearing this, the scholar who had been offended by the remarks hesitated. He glanced at Mo Qingze, who was sitting in the corner, and then sat back down, feeling embarrassed. He had only been upset because Mo Qingze, who was not much older than him, was being lauded to such an extent. However, if it came to challenging Mo Qingze, he realized he lacked the courage and confidence to do so.

Seeing that the situation had calmed down, the other people in the room lost interest and stopped provoking the scholar. The scholar who had initially criticized Mo Qingze moved to another table, where the conversation quickly turned to the impressive performance of Young Master Ziyu during the Taihe Hall trial. 

The noise in the hall continued as usual, but the Mo family sitting in the corner didn’t realize the stir they had caused.

With about half an hour left before the results were posted, Mo Yan, feeling the restlessness of waiting, consulted her father and younger sisters. Afterward, she called over the waiter and ordered a pot of jasmine tea and a pot of green tea, along with some peanuts, melon seeds, snacks, and preserved fruits to be served on the table.

After a sip of tea and a bite of snack, Mo Yan found the taste quite good. She placed the snack plate in front of her two younger sisters, saying, "The jasmine tea has honey in it. It's quite nice. You two barely ate this morning, so have some snacks with the tea. Otherwise, you’ll be so hungry when we go out shopping that you won't even be able to walk."

Xin’er and Sheng’er smelled the fragrant jasmine tea and immediately became interested. They didn’t hesitate and started eating the snacks and sipping the tea.

However, after tasting the snack, Xin’er immediately shook her head. After swallowing a sip of the tea, she said to Mo Yan, "Sister, these snacks aren’t as good as the ones you make. This jasmine tea doesn’t have the fragrance you brew. If our family opened a teahouse here, this place would definitely go out of business."

Xin’er didn’t bother lowering her voice, and the waiter, who was not far away calling out to the customers, overheard her remark. He glanced over but didn’t say anything.

Mo Yan, seeing this, couldn’t help but glare at Xin’er. "We couldn’t even afford to eat cakes or drink tea with honey before. Why didn’t you say they didn’t taste good back then?"

(End of Chapter) 

 Chapter 863: The Announcement of the Civil Examination Results (1)

On April 26th, the day the spring civil examination results were to be announced, the scene outside the examination hall was bustling with people even before the gates had opened. People crowded the entrance, jostling and squeezing through to secure a good spot, eager to be among the first to learn the results once the list was posted.

"Father, there are too many people. I think it’s better to park the carriage at the teahouse across the street. You can wait inside, and I’ll stay outside to keep an eye on things," Mo Yan said, looking at the overwhelming crowd.

Mo Qingze, who had been resting his eyes, opened them and lifted the curtain to glance outside. Seeing the crowd so thick that even the gates of the examination hall were barely visible, he rubbed his temples and said softly, "The list won’t run away. You don’t need to watch it so closely. Let’s just go to the teahouse and wait. We can check it later when the crowd has thinned out."

Mo Yan thought for a moment. He was right. The list would be posted for three days, so there was no need to endure the crowds today. She nodded in agreement and instructed the driver to turn the carriage towards the nearest and largest teahouse on the street.

Many others had the same idea. The entire street was filled with people, and every teahouse and restaurant was packed. Nearly ten thousand candidates had taken the exam, making this the largest group in history. The competition was naturally fierce, which caused even the most confident candidates to feel a little unsure after the exam.

The Mo family hadn’t expected such a situation, and they hadn’t reserved a private room in advance. By the time they arrived, there were only two seats left in the teahouse’s open hall. If they had come any later, even those would have been taken.

The Mo family wasn’t concerned about this. Since their other family members, Zhen’er and Yun Zhao, couldn’t make it, Mo Yan had brought her younger sisters, Xin’er and Sheng’er, who hadn’t been into the city for a while. They planned to enjoy the day and maybe visit the Liu family once they knew the results.

Before the results were posted, the atmosphere in the teahouse was lively, with strangers chatting away as they shared a table. But as soon as the Mo family entered, the entire hall went silent. Everyone turned their attention to them.

The Mo family wasn’t the kind of family that would draw attention simply because of their arrival, but their appearances and demeanor were so striking that they stood out. The older man, Mo Qingze, was handsome and elegant, while the young women, no matter their age, were all charming and beautiful. Their luxurious yet understated clothes made them even more captivating.

Among the onlookers, one scholar noticed Mo Qingze walking towards a corner with Sheng’er and immediately recognized him. Upon closer inspection, he confirmed his guess and, feeling excited, whispered to the scholar sitting next to him, "Did you see that? The one walking with Sheng’er is Young Master Ziyu! I can’t believe we’re seeing him here. What a lucky day!"

The name "Young Master Ziyu" was one given to Mo Qingze by the scholars who had witnessed his sharp rebuttal at the Taihe Hall last year. Although Mo Qingze was already married with children, his youthful appearance and the impressive way he had handled the situation made him deserving of the honorific "Young Master." 

The scholars admired Mo Qingze’s talent and were greatly influenced by his words at Taihe Hall, so they referred to him as "Young Master Ziyu" to express their respect and admiration.

(End of Chapter) 

 Chapter 1675: Shu Yu's Bold Move

Intimate friend of beauty?
Shu Yu's lips twitched as she thought about Jiang Kuanyu's wife, who had returned to their hometown up north ahead of everyone else. She clicked her tongue in disdain.

This intimate beauty could be considered one of the more attractive girls in the black market. She had originally been imprisoned as well, but by the time she arrived, the other officials and leaders had already formed relationships. She came too late and missed the chance.

Until Jiang Kuanyu arrived. When this young master Jiang first came, many girls wanted to attach themselves to him.

This intimate friend named Qiao Rou was naturally among them. Compared to the other unattractive and sometimes violent officials, Jiang Kuanyu's position was much more appealing.

Qiao Rou had her own means. Among the others, she had a soft and delicate demeanor that others didn't possess, which happened to match Jiang Kuanyu's tastes.

As a result, it didn't take long for her to become Jiang Kuanyu's woman.

Xia Yi said, "I helped Qiao Rou once before, so I can strike up a conversation with her. Can you let me act alone? I'll go find her and try to gather some information about Master Meng's whereabouts."

Shu Yu nodded, "Sure, wait a moment."

Just as they finished speaking, they suddenly noticed a group of five or six people coming from not too far away. The leader was very familiar. Wasn't that Jiang Kuanyu they were just talking about? How did they run into him?

Shu Yu's face turned pale. Seeing Jiang Kuanyu looking over, without a word, she took hold of Xia Yi's face and kissed her.

Meng Yunzheng, who had just turned around, stared in shock, "..."

Even the bandits noticed. They both are women, right?! Ah? They're women!

After a quick glance in their direction, Jiang Kuanyu soon left with his people. His gaze didn't linger, and he didn't seem suspicious.

Shu Yu, seeing them gradually move away, let out a sigh of relief and released Xia Yi.

"That was close, nearly bumped into him." Jiang Kuanyu didn't recognize Meng Yunzheng, but he was familiar with Shu Yu.

Despite her disguise, if Jiang Kuanyu's eyesight was sharp, he might still recognize her.

Shu Yu patted her chest, turned her head, and saw the two petrified individuals.

Meng Yunzheng cleared his throat, his eyes wandering, as if wanting to speak but not knowing where to start.

Shu Yu chuckled, "I kissed my own thumb."

Thinking back to the scene just now, Meng Yunzheng realized that she was indeed holding Xia Yi's face with her thumb in between. It seemed possible. He immediately put on a nonchalant expression, "I didn't say anything."

Yeah, you didn't say anything, but your expression said it all.

Shu Yu looked at the bandits, and the latter's expression was inexplicably disappointed. Seeing that everything was fine, she said, "Let's go."

However, after walking a few steps, the bandits saw Xia Yi leaving alone. Frowning, they were about to call her back.

Shu Yu stopped them, "Don't worry, I gave her the same medicine I gave you. She won't dare to cause trouble. I told her to look elsewhere, maybe she can find something. Once we leave, I'll provide the antidote."

The bandits narrowed their eyes, "You gave that Yi'er the medicine?"

"Yes."

The bandits lowered their gaze and fell silent. Yi'er couldn't be allowed to stay.

After sending these people away, he needed to figure out a way to deal with her. Otherwise, news of his betrayal to the black market would surely spread.

 Chapter 1674: Secret Guard Xia Yi

Meng Yunzheng's group quickly moved out of sight of the guards. As soon as they were alone, the bandit hurriedly pulled Meng Yunzheng a few steps forward, lowering his voice, "What exactly are you planning? Aren't you here to find someone? Bringing along this girl is just a burden."

"A burden? Not necessarily."

"What do you mean?"

While they walked ahead talking, Shu Yu and the girl named Yi'er stayed behind. They let some distance grow between them before Shu Yu whispered, "Where is Qi Lie?"

Yi'er suddenly looked up, excitement in her eyes, "You're..."

"Lu Shuyu."

Yi'er looked surprised, "Lu Xiangjun? How did you come here?"

Shu Yu nodded toward the people ahead, briefly explaining their purpose.

Earlier, Meng Yunzheng had quietly informed her of Yi'er's identity. This girl was Xia Yi, a secret guard by the Emperor's side. While she hadn't appeared publicly, Meng Yunzheng knew her because she had once delivered a message from the Emperor to him.

They knew that Qi Lie had infiltrated the black market, and they suspected he wasn't the only one.

However, they hadn't expected Xia Yi to be among them. Xia Yi's identity in the black market... it was impossible for her to remain unscathed for so long.

Yet, this wasn't an issue for Xia Yi. She was a secret guard. Whether it was her reputation or even her life, she would readily sacrifice it. Moreover, this matter concerned treason and rebellion. What was a little sacrifice in comparison?

Faced with Shu Yu's admiring words, Xia Yi smiled, "It's rare that you don't look at me with a strange gaze. That alone is enough."

She seemed somewhat delighted as she walked with her arm around Shu Yu, continuing to talk, "Lord Qi isn't here. A few days ago, a large group of people from the black market went to the neighboring county, and Lord Qi was among them. He was worried that the neighboring county might experience the same chaos as Chenggu County, so he specifically went to exchange people. With him there, it might not be too bad."

After a pause, Xia Yi's expression turned grave, "Lord Qi was extremely angry about what happened in Chenggu County. Unfortunately, it happened too suddenly, and Lord Qi was away from the black market with the managers during that time. I... have limited abilities and couldn't stop it. Is Chenggu County alright?"

Thinking of everything she had witnessed since arriving in the county, Shu Yu's voice grew heavy, "Not great. Many houses were destroyed. Countless people were injured or killed, and now they are being held hostage in the county."

Xia Yi's gaze fell on the bandit walking ahead, her tone turning icy, "When the reinforcements from the capital arrive, these people will undoubtedly pay the price."

"They will."

Having discussed Qi Lie's whereabouts, Shu Yu then asked Xia Yi if she had seen Meng Xiaoshu and Meng Pei.

Unfortunately, Xia Yi shook her head, expressing her regret, "Since the black market stopped receiving guests, most of us girls have been confined to the cells. I did manage to slip out once in between, but that was four days ago. The black market was still bustling then, but our movements were restricted, and we didn't receive much information."

Since then, they had been locked up and hadn't seen Meng Xiaoshu and Meng Pei, who had entered two days ago.

Shu Yu frowned. Their information was still too limited.

She could only inquire about Jiang Kuanyu, but he often wasn't in the black market either. However, Xia Yi did know his residence in the black market, and she was aware that Jiang Kuanyu had a close relationship with a certain woman here.

 Chapter 243.1: Don’t You Think It’s Absurd?

The venerable General Chang was showing such an obedient side—his deputy, while surprised, realized upon reflection: if he had a daughter as capable and skilled as this, he would surely be just as obedient.

He would serve tea to his daughter every day; if she told him to go east, he would never go west—certainly even more obedient than the general himself.

Very well, the obedience was ready; all that remained was a capable daughter.

This fleeting thought passed quickly. Listening to the repeated shouts of “The General has arrived!” from the opposite side, the deputy fixed his gaze and gripped his weapon tightly.

The two armies slowly pulled back, separating into two halves with a clear dividing line.

Soon, the enemy troops moved aside, leaving a path in the middle.

The sound of hooves drew closer. A squad rode forward to clear the path, and before long, a figure on a black horse appeared in view.

“The General!”

“Indeed, the General!”

A deputy and a captain from the Xu army shouted in unison: “The General has arrived!”

The atmosphere shifted abruptly. The morale of the already scattered troops was forced to reassemble upon seeing Xu Zhengye himself.

Xu Zhengye rode to the front of his army.

Chang Suining looked.

The man was clad in armor, with a bright vermilion cape outside, dazzling as befitted his self-styled title of “Restorer General.”

Over forty, with neatly trimmed short facial hair, his face was slightly long but well-proportioned. His slightly upturned phoenix-like eyes hinted at the elegance of a cultivated family, giving no sense of roughness even as he wielded sword and horse.

In short, he looked every bit like a reasonable man who understood righteousness, with a face hardly resembling a rebel.

Chang Suining thought: the reason people were willing to believe his claim of restoring the Li family’s rule was not just gullibility; those truly deceived could hardly be blamed entirely.

She and Chang Kuo looked at Xu Zhengye, and he looked at them in return.

The first thing Xu Zhengye noticed was the high-held severed head of Ge Zong.

His expression changed slightly.

He had come after hearing news, worried about conditions in Hezhou, but he never expected to witness this scene.

He had never imagined the battle would be so shamefully disastrous.

Ten thousand against fewer than twenty thousand—no one could have predicted the reversal of the battle.

Had he arrived any later, his entire army might have been forced to surrender.

Xu Zhengye looked at the soldiers behind Chang Kuo who glared at him, and coldly asked the deputy at his side, who was making excuses: “Where is Ji Xi?”

The deputy bowed his head lower: “Reporting to the General, General Ji… is also dead!”

Xu Zhengye asked steadily: “Who killed him?”

Compared to Ge Zong, the clear-headed Ji Xi was even more valuable. To lose both in this battle!

“It is—” the deputy began, but a young voice rang from across.

“It was me.” Yun Hui, just awakening from unconsciousness and aided by Officer Peng, stepped forward. His pale lips spoke through hidden hatred: “Yun Hui, son of the Prefect of Hezhou.”

The deaths of his father and brothers in Hezhou were all caused by this man, all due to his secret ambitions.

Xu Zhengye observed him for a moment, as if taking note, then asked, “And who killed Ge Zong?”

“At this?” Chang Suining turned to Ge Zong’s head, speaking casually: “I did.”

Xu Zhengye’s gaze moved lightly—another youth?

He looked at Chang Suining, scrutinizing: “And who are you?”

Holding the reins, she smiled faintly: “Chang Suining of the Cavalry General’s household.”

“Chang Suining…” Xu Zhengye looked at her, then turned to Chang Kuo.

Chang Kuo’s emotions fluctuated; his palms were slightly sweaty.

The Golden Deputy General beside him grew anxious. This formidable daughter of the General—why hadn’t he recognized her? He loudly declared for the General: “This is our General Chang’s daughter! A Chang family lady!”

Chang Kuo didn’t dare move.

Until Chang Suining turned to him: “Father?”

Chang Kuo started: “…Yes, my daughter killed him!”

The Golden Deputy General smiled with satisfaction—look at how proud the General is, even his voice trembles!

“So it’s a girl… indeed, like father, like daughter.” Xu Zhengye gave a faint, ambiguous laugh, though he still half-doubted that this young lady killed Ge Zong.

After all, it was hard to believe.

But now was not the time to scrutinize how a mere girl slew Ge Zong.

He looked at Chang Kuo: “In today’s battle, two of my generals have fallen… General Chang’s tactics truly impress me, quite unexpectedly, and I admire them.”

“The battle has exhausted both armies, yet its outcome is still undecided,” he raised his hand slightly, speaking to Chang Kuo: “For the sake of the soldiers, would General Chang gamble with me?”

Chang Kuo replied cautiously: “Let’s hear what kind of gamble it is first.”

Those who seek greatness cannot be thin-skinned. Xu Zhengye, unbothered by any perceived insult, continued:

“I remember when General Chang followed the late Crown Prince to fight and earn merit, I was still indulging in pleasures in the capital, oblivious to hardship… truly shameful.”

“Thus, in terms of commanding troops, I am but a junior before General Chang. Today, I dare to challenge General Chang to a single duel—”

“If General Chang wins, I will withdraw my forces. If I am fortunate to win, I ask that you allow me entry into Hezhou.”

Chang Kuo looked: “Our army has already won a great victory. Why should I agree to such a gamble?”

“Victory is not yet certain,” Xu Zhengye glanced behind him: “I bring an additional fifty thousand troops.”

The Golden Deputy General’s face changed; Yun Hui, assisted by Officer Peng, pressed his pale lips tight.

“If I forcibly take Hezhou, it might not be impossible,” Xu Zhengye said. “But today’s casualties are too severe; I prefer no further bloodshed, hence this proposal—”

He displayed the air of justice and benevolence, adding: “I imagine General Chang’s heart is the same. Though I may be presumptuous, as a junior, I offer this gamble as a mark of respect.”

“How does General Chang feel about this?”

In other words, refusal would only leave one option: attack.

“General Chang… cannot agree!” Yun Hui looked up at Chang Kuo: “His every word seems righteous, but he is a petty man pretending to be virtuous. The General must not fall for it!”

The enemy humbly calls himself a junior, seemingly weak, claiming to be “no match for General Chang”—yet if he had no certainty, why abandon the sure path to victory for a gamble?

What he calls “a token of respect” is merely an attempt to seize Hezhou at minimal cost!

The General had not fought directly but had overseen the battle all day from the city towers, not even pausing to drink. Xu Zhengye, in his prime, had arrived fully prepared. Surely he had confidence in victory.

Stepping back, even if defeated, he could find excuses to renege.

These were objective facts; privately, Yun Hui did not want Chang Kuo to risk himself further.

General Chang owed nothing to Hezhou, but Hezhou owed far more to him and the General’s daughter.

Yun Hui was about to speak again when Chang Kuo raised his hand, stopping him.

Just as Yun Hui assumed the General would accept the wager—

“Ning… Suining, what do you think?” Chang Kuo asked softly, more like seeking counsel.

Yun Hui: “?”

“I think this proposal is reasonable,” Chang Suining looked at Xu Zhengye: “But one point needs to be added.”

Xu Zhengye looked at her: “What addition? Please, Chang family lady, speak.”

 Chapter 242: Good Sword, Good Armor, Good Cui Jing

Ge Zong dragged Lou Shi through the crowd, followed by several cavalrymen laughing and cheering loudly, deliberately using the display to vent their anger.

At that moment, panic suddenly spread throughout General Xu’s army. Someone shouted tremblingly, “…General Ji has been killed!”

The news of Ji Xi’s death reached Ge Zong in a wave, one voice louder than the next.

Ge Zong’s smile stiffened. He immediately reined in his horse and frowned, looking toward the center of the army that Ji Xi commanded.

Ji Xi was actually dead? Who did it?

Was it the vengeful Second Young Master Yun?

Or… that Chang boy?!

He quickly found the answer.

Someone in the Hezhou army began shouting: “Second Young Master has slain the dog traitor Ji Xi, avenging the prefect!”

“The Prefect can rest in peace!” someone’s voice trembled with crying, yet the soldiers, previously fatigued, found their morale boosted again.

Although formations were already chaotic, courage persisted amidst the disorder, and countless Hezhou soldiers charged the enemy.

Ge Zong’s face darkened. He abruptly lifted the woman he was dragging and, bending low on his horse, clutched her by the throat.

“You’ve given birth to a capable son…” His eyes flashed with murderous intent as he tightened his grip. “I had intended to spare you temporarily, but now… I cannot.”

Since someone had killed a general in his army, he would use the Prefect’s wife’s life to rally the shaken hearts of his men after Ji Xi’s death.

“One life for a life. You’ve given birth to a filial son!” he sneered. Just as he prepared to break the woman’s unyielding neck, a sharp wind swept past his ear!

Ge Zong tilted his head to dodge. The arrow, coming with terrifying speed, grazed half of his ear.

Immediately, a second arrow followed, or more accurately, the second and third arrows flew almost simultaneously.

Seizing the moment, Lou Shi, her face swollen and bleeding to near blindness, drew out the half-arrow embedded deep in her leg with her right hand and thrust it toward Ge Zong’s arm with all her strength.

Ge Zong, preoccupied with the arrows behind him, did not anticipate her counterattack. The arrow pierced his arm, and in pain, he violently flung Lou Shi aside.

She fell heavily to the ground. A figure rushed forward, catching her and rolling to avoid the chaos of trampling hooves.

“Madam!” Xuancai Niangzi lifted Lou Shi onto her back. Soldiers quickly came to assist, escorting the gravely wounded woman to the rear.

“It’s you again, you little bastard!”

Ge Zong gritted his teeth and pulled out the broken arrow from his arm. The counterattack from the seriously injured Lou Shi had not penetrated deeply enough to be fatal.

He tossed the bloody arrow aside and looked at the “youth” holding a bow on horseback.

Chang Suining calmly slung her bow back onto the horse’s side and lifted her eyes, riding straight toward him.

As she approached, she held the reins with one hand and drew a short knife hidden on the outer side of her boot with the other.

Ge Zong did not retreat. He bellowed “Charge!” and raised his sword to meet her.

The two fought on horseback, alternating attack and defense. As their duel prolonged, they gradually moved away from the main army toward the roadside.

Here lay several corpses, fallen soldiers who could not hold on any longer. Snow lightly covered them, soft and white.

Wild grass and withered reeds, untouched by battle, were also blanketed by snow.

As the two clashed, blood splashed into the snow, like red plum blossoms blooming amid white.

The sky darkened, vision became hazy, yet the snow reflected light enough to reveal the impatience growing in Ge Zong’s eyes.

The boy had eluded him for so long, yet he could not kill her.

Though he clearly had the strength to overpower her, her movements were too agile. Whenever he thought he had her cornered, she evaded like a bird while he lunged like a hunter.

One failed strike might be forgivable, but failing ten or a hundred times bred anger and frustration.

This vexation was unlike being overpowered—it was maddening because he could clearly overpower her but could not land a blow!

Ge Zong glanced toward the battlefield. Ji Xi was dead. He should be commanding the army, yet this child kept him engaged, preventing escape!

He cursed: “…You’re deliberately trying to hold me back!”

He struck with even more ferocity.

Chang Suining dodged his blade again. “Not just that,” she replied.

She maneuvered alongside him and suddenly collided with him.

The impact seemed uncoordinated. Ge Zong barely dodged, and his horse, already exhausted, reared in panic.

Ge Zong was thrown off, rolling in the snow, spitting out snow from his mouth. He quickly stood, clutching his sword.

Chang Suining jumped down as well, standing in the snow, watching him.

Ge Zong squinted. “What, you want to fight me up close?”

She had survived thus far thanks to her superior horsemanship. Close combat, however, was harder to evade.

“Yes, try.” Chang Suining raised her sword in front of her, snowlight glinting coldly, her short knife gleaming: “Killing you shouldn’t be hard.”

Her tone was earnest, as if concluded after careful practice and analysis, leaving no room for doubt.

Ge Zong sneered between clenched teeth: “Youngster, your arrogance will cost you your life!”

Chang Suining said nothing further and lunged, her steps quick, raising snow mist with each strike.

She understood her advantages and disadvantages against Ge Zong and had been draining his stamina and patience before.

Now, it was almost over.

Ge Zong rushed forward. In their close combat, he realized her strength was insufficient, and he smirked: “Little brat, when I was killing people, you were still nursing in your mother’s arms!”

“Wrong,” Chang Suining blocked his blade, her palm tingling from the impact. She took a half-step back: “But I don’t intend to correct you.”

She knew him, yet he did not know her—perfect for her to strike.

Ge Zong gritted his teeth: “Bragging like your mother!”

He hated those half-spoken words the most.

Now, in hand-to-hand combat, he quickly realized her short knife was extraordinary. Such a thin, sharp blade, up close, should not be able to block his heavy sword.

Yet as their weapons clashed, a crack suddenly appeared on the back of his blade!

He began to breathe unevenly.

He had been striking with full force, but now off his horse, using both hands and feet, he started showing signs of exhaustion.

Yet the “youth” opposite him showed no fatigue, her attacks strong and unceasing.

Ge Zong realized—this brat had been deliberately conserving energy!

Partly correct. Chang Suining, knowing her body was weak, had trained her endurance carefully.

Ge Zong had ten parts of strength; she had five. He could strike a hundred times using all his force, yet her five parts allowed her to strike over a hundred times without tiring.

First half: she used agility to exhaust him.

Second half: she relied on endurance and patience to win.

They continued fighting. The slim youth transitioned from evasive tactics to meeting him evenly, gradually pushing him back.

Ge Zong, nearly exhausted, raised his sword again, feeling it wobble—then CRACK! The blade snapped!

Ge Zong’s expression changed completely.

With no barrier between them, her eyes, colder than snowlight, fixed on him. The snow-white blade pressed against his face.

He fell backward with a thud.

Instinctively, he tried to roll away, but in the split second, he moved too little.

The “youth” swiftly dropped, kneeling on his abdomen, sword poised to strike.

Ge Zong drew a dagger from his armor’s side and thrust toward Chang Suining’s chest.

Chang Suining did not dodge. Their blades pierced simultaneously.

Her short knife struck Ge Zong’s already wounded shoulder.

His dagger was blocked, failing to penetrate.

How could this be?

His dagger should pierce armor!

Too late to think. Pain shot through his shoulder. He raised the dagger again, aiming at her neck.

Chang Suining anticipated the move, faster, and slashed his lower arm holding the dagger.

Flesh and bone severed. His hand and forearm flew off.

“Ah!”

The pain sent Ge Zong nearly mad. He struggled violently. Before she leapt aside, Chang Suining struck his leg once more—avenging Lou Shi.

Ge Zong could no longer rise. He knelt, then collapsed, crawling slightly. Blood gushed, and he could barely move, lying in red-stained snow, gasping.

Chang Suining watched quietly. Then she approached.

Ge Zong’s face had turned pale, lips colorless. Fear finally appeared in his eyes as she stepped closer.

He raised his head weakly, retreating backward: “N…don’t kill me…”

“I can surrender…!”

The girl advanced, her blade his life in hand.

She squatted, one knee bent, listening to his trembling, panicked voice: “I… I know many of Xu Zhengye’s secrets, don’t kill me, I can tell you…”

“Should’ve said that earlier,” Chang Suining said regretfully. “Now, even the gods can’t save you.”

Ge Zong grabbed her armor, shaking his head: “N…”

He glanced behind her.

A loyal subordinate pushed through the reeds, charging at Chang Suining with a raised sword.

Hope flickered in Ge Zong’s eyes.

But the hope vanished.

Someone else emerged from the reeds, wielding a long spear. She ran through, stabbing Ge Zong’s subordinate in the abdomen.

The woman screamed, pushing the dead weight seven or eight steps. Only when exhausted did she drop the spear.

“Miss Chang?!” she shouted anxiously.

Chang Suining looked back.

“Miss Chang!” The woman confirmed, rushing forward, still panicked: “I couldn’t find you before!”

The battlefield was chaos. She had followed the enemy to find her.

“You’re safe! General Chang is also looking for you!” She knelt beside Chang Suining, smiling with relief, tears in her eyes.

Ge Zong stared in disbelief at the girl. “You… you’re a girl?!”

So, not Chang Kuo’s son, but daughter?!

No wonder… how could Chang Kuo have produced such a fragile son!

“Unlucky…” Ge Zong’s eyes burned with unwilling hatred. He had lost to a little girl!

Unlucky?

Chang Suining let out a soft “ah”: “Even worse—you’ll die by my hand. With such misfortune, you probably won’t be reincarnated!”

Ge Zong stared at her, lips trembling, barely able to speak.

“Do you still beg for mercy?” Chang Suining asked politely.

He could not answer. He clutched her armor, unwillingness left only fear of death.

“Begging is useless,” she said, raising her hand. “I don’t believe it.”

Xu Zhengye would never have entrusted secrets to such a fool.

The blade fell.

Blood spattered.

Ge Zong’s head was severed. Chang Suining tossed it aside, sitting down, hands on the snow, breathing heavily.

She, too, was exhausted. She had been masking her fatigue, but she could feel it now.

Looking toward the army, torches were lit. General Chang was commanding. She could rest briefly.

After a moment, she picked up her short knife, wiped the blood from the snow, and inspected it. Only minor scratches remained.

“Good sword…” she murmured.

She looked down at her armor. She had been wearing Yanling Armor, which blocked Ge Zong’s dagger.

She praised it: “Good armor.”

Both sword and armor were gifts from Cui Jing. She exhaled wearily in the snow: “Good Cui Jing.”

At that moment, a group of enemy soldiers approached.

Chang Suining remained seated, watching them.

The woman picked up Ge Zong’s broken sword, standing warily.

The enemy troops had hurried forward, but stopped when they saw Ge Zong’s head, eyes wide open in death.

Fear gripped them, hands trembling on their weapons.

The girl sat in the snow, watching: “Still want to fight?”

No one answered.

They exchanged glances, seeking confidence from each other’s eyes, but saw only greater fear, and began retreating.

“They’re running already?” The woman mocked, though her voice trembled. She sat back down, shoulders and arms shaking.

Chang Suining patted her head lightly. “It’s alright.”

First time on the battlefield, seeing so much blood, so many deaths, killing personally—fear was natural.

Hearing this comfort, the woman, overwhelmed, hugged Chang Suining and sobbed loudly.

Chang Suining patted her solid back.

The woman, hardened by farm labor, usually tough and rough-skinned, now seemed like a lost child, finding solace in the girl.

She cried for a while, finally calming down. Wiping her tears, laughing through sobs, she said: “…Killing this thing isn’t like slaughtering a pig!”

She had previously boasted that killing enemies was like killing pigs, but now realized the impact was indescribable.

“Not the same?” Chang Suining’s breathing was uneven, but she replied earnestly. “I’ve never killed a pig.”

“I’ll have my family pig ready next time for you to try!”

Chang Suining smiled.

The woman snickered. “What nonsense I talk!”

She was truly terrified.

“It’s good. The pigs live, the home stands, the city stands.” Chang Suining glanced at Ge Zong’s head. “We’ve won.”

The woman, eyes teary, asked uncertainly: “We… won?”

Really won? Fifty thousand against a hundred thousand?

“Almost.” Chang Suining pushed off the ground, standing, picking up Ge Zong’s head. “Let’s go.”

Chang Kuo had reformed the ranks, converging with the state army, withdrawing from the chaotic skirmish.

“Miss Chang! Miss Chang has returned!”

Someone shouted. Chang Kuo turned sharply on horseback.

Under torchlight and snow, the girl emerged from the reeds, bloodied, one hand holding a blade, the other a severed head.

A scene repeated too many past memories; Chang Kuo’s eyes welled up.

He immediately ordered his deputy: “Go quickly!”

The deputy rode forward, breaking through scattered enemy troops to protect Chang Suining.

Seeing Ge Zong’s head, the deputy’s eyes were shocked.

He dismounted, bowed slightly to the girl: “Lady!”

Chang Suining handed over the head.

The deputy lifted it on his spear, shouting at the enemy: “Ji Xi is dead, Ge Zong’s head here! Surrender quickly and live, those who yield shall not die!”

Although news of Ge Zong’s death had spread, some still hoped for luck. Seeing his head in person, the Xu army’s morale collapsed.

Amid the shouts of “Those who yield shall not die,” soldiers exchanged glances, then dropped their weapons.

Just as victory seemed certain, shouts came from the rear of the Xu army: “Who dares surrender!”

“The General is here!”

“The General has arrived! Dare to surrender, face military law!”

“The General?!”

General Xu Zhengye had arrived?!

Unsure, soldiers picked up their weapons again.

Chang Suining sat back on her horse, next to Chang Kuo, watching the Xu army rear.

Soon, the sound of hoofbeats approached.

Xu Zhengye had truly arrived.

But why now? With a hundred-thousand-strong army, he should have had confidence.

Had patience run out from the prolonged attacks by Ge Zong and Ji Xi, requiring him to oversee personally? Or… had he received other news?

“Don’t worry,” Chang Suining thought. “It may not be ‘bad.’”

Chang Kuo nodded obediently, eyes determined.

The deputy beside him glanced over.

(End of chapter)

 Chapter 862: A Twist in Fate—A Proposal at the Door (4)

By afternoon, the two of them returned with their baskets full—one with an assortment of fresh flowers and the other with different kinds of mushrooms. However, as soon as they reached the foot of the mountain, they noticed a familiar carriage parked outside the gate. It was the Liu family’s carriage.

Mo Yan’s eyes flickered with worry, fearing that the Du family was causing trouble again, prompting Master and Madam Liu to seek refuge at her home.

Liu Tinglan also thought the same, and without saying another word to Mo Yan, she hurriedly pushed open the gate and rushed inside.

Mo Yan quickly followed, only to find that the only person in the hall was the Liu family’s coachman. Neither Master Liu nor Madam Liu had arrived.

The coachman stood up as soon as he saw Liu Tinglan, quickly greeting her. "Miss, the master and madam sent me to bring you home. They’re waiting for you. Please pack up and come with me right away."

Hearing this, Liu Tinglan realized that her initial guess had been wrong. If the Du family had caused trouble, her parents would have prevented her from leaving, not rushed to bring her back home.

She breathed a sigh of relief and, not asking why her parents were in such a hurry, said to Mo Yan, "Yan Yan, my parents are eager for me to go back, so something important must have happened at home. I’ll go now, and once things are settled, I’ll come over to visit you again."

Mo Yan did not insist on keeping her, understanding the situation. "You go ahead, and if anything comes up, send a message. Don’t bear it all alone like before."

"Yes, with you, the princess, supporting me, I won’t do anything foolish like that again!" Liu Tinglan winked playfully and agreed.

However, Mo Yan was still uneasy. After Liu Tinglan left, she released Mao Mao from her space and instructed it to keep an eye on the Liu family’s movements. If anything seemed amiss, it should come back to inform her.

Previously, she had not sent Mao Mao to watch over the Liu and Du families when they broke off the engagement, underestimating Du Wencai’s shamelessness and thinking that Liu family could handle it. But she would not make the same mistake again.

As for the Du family, the gossip still hadn't died down, and if she acted rashly, it could easily be blamed on the Liu family, sparking new rumors. So she chose to wait for the right opportunity to deal with Du Wencai properly.

Soon, Mao Mao returned, and after Xue Tuanzi translated, Mo Yan quickly learned the reason behind Liu Tinglan’s hasty return. It turned out that Shen Ji had come to the Liu family to propose marriage!

Though it wasn’t exactly a formal proposal—there were no matchmakers present—Shen Ji had come to gauge Master Liu and Madam Liu’s opinion. If they agreed, he planned to formally ask for Liu Tinglan’s hand in marriage once the results of the civil examination were announced.

Shen Ji had no concerns about the rumors surrounding the Liu and Du families. Last year, he had already inquired about Du Wencai’s character from the neighbors and discovered that not only was the Du family a bad match, but Du Wencai himself was also a man of shallow and selfish character. 

Although he was aware that the Du family was a poor match for the Liu family, Shen Ji was more concerned about the possibility of Liu Tinglan being affected by the slanderous gossip. He was deeply impressed by Liu Tinglan’s dignity and had grown fond of her, so he finally gathered the courage to express his desire to marry her.

When Mo Yan learned that Master Liu and Madam Liu had not agreed immediately but instead had hurriedly sent Liu Tinglan back, she understood their reasoning. The Liu family had initially hoped to find a son-in-law by inviting a man of less-than-exceptional talent and character, like Du Wencai, to marry into the family. After the fallout with Du Wencai, their thoughts would certainly be clouded, and they would be more cautious than before.

Though the Liu and Du families were of equal standing, having Shen Ji, an only son, marry into the Liu family was unrealistic. Shen Ji was highly accomplished and well-regarded, while Liu Tinglan’s reputation had been tarnished by the rumors. Master Liu and Madam Liu had already been stung by previous events and were understandably wary of making a rash decision.

However, Mo Yan was optimistic about Shen Ji. Seeing him stand up in such a difficult moment to ask for Liu Tinglan’s hand, she believed he truly loved her, disregarding the gossip.

Yet, she was concerned that Shen Ji’s parents might oppose the marriage, which could spoil this promising union.

After thinking for a moment, Mo Yan decided to send Mao Mao once more, this time to Shen Ji’s hometown to assess his family’s character. If they were anything like Hong Shi, Niu Shi, or Mo Yongxi—insufferable personalities—then Mo Yan would have to reconsider this match carefully.

(End of Chapter)