ã€ŠMy Cultivation Starting from Archeryã€‹


 Chapter 1 The World Does Not Want People to Live

    "Where''s your man?"

    "To address the official, he''s still sick in bed."

    "When do you n to pay your taxes?"

    "Please be assured, we will not miss the final deadline."

    ...

    In the darkness, Chen Sansi heard a conversation between a man and a woman.

    The man was aggressive, while the woman was pleading for leniency.

    "Hiss¡­"

    He struggled to open his eyelids, and what came into view was an entirely unfamiliar environment.

    ''Where is this?''

    ''Wasn''t I working overtime?''

    "Hiss¡­"

    Chen Sansi''s head suddenly throbbed with pain, as a tide of memories that didn''t belong to him flooded his mind, forcing him to ept a fact.

    ''Have I transmigrated?''

    This ce was Po Yang County, a remote small county in the Dasheng Dynasty.

    The original inhabitant lived outside the county town in Yanbian Vige. He was a full-time, impoverished schr whose family survived on his father''s hunting, leading a barely eptable life.

    Until half a year ago, after his father set off for the mountains at night, he never returned.

    With the loss of the family''s pir and the failure of the original inhabitant''s child exam, the double blow led to a serious illness.

    That''s when Chen Sansi transmigrated.

    "Ah, Brother Shi, you''re awake!"

    A woman, carrying a bowl of medicinal soup, entered the house. She was overjoyed to see the young man waking up.

    She hurried to the bedside, her already ill-fitting garment shaking violently as she ran, as if there were two rabbits tumbling inside.

    This woman was named Gu Xin.

    She was a child bride bought by the original inhabitant''s father when he was very young.

    She had always taken care of the original inhabitant like an elder sister, staying loyal even after his father''s death and through his illness.

    However¡­

    The original inhabitant seemed to have looked down on this sister quite a bit.

    Being the descendant of criminals, she was sent to the frontier and nearly sold to a brothel, making her the lowest of the low ss.

    Considering himself far superior, the original inhabitant had believed he would one day pass the exams and marry a well-to-do woman, bing a sessful man. He thought she wasn''t good enough for him and treated her like a servant on a regr basis.

    "Brother Shi, how are you feeling?"

    Gu Xin sat down by the bed and ced her hand on the young man''s forehead, eximing with surprise, "The fever''s gone?"

    Chen Sansi sat up and tried to move his body. Aside from some weakness, there was nothing seriously wrong with him, as the illness had disappeared with his transmigration.

    "Truly the blessing of the gods."

    Gu Xin was visibly relieved, "Brother Shi, you drink your medicine first, I''ll go fix you some food."

    Watching her walk away, her tortoise-like hips ready to burst from her clothing, Chen Sansi spent ten minutes digesting his current situation.

    "Since I''m here, I might as well make the best of it."

    He''d always been quick to adapt to his environment. Since he''de to this world, he needed to figure out how to live well.

    He picked up the bitter medicinal soup and drank it all at once, then went to the next room.

    He saw Gu Xin almost entirely inside the rice bin, just her hips stuck out, as she struggled to scoop out some grain.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    After much effort, she managed to gather a small handful of millet.

    Since the death of the original inhabitant''s father, the family had lost its source of ie. Moreover, the original inhabitant''s recent illness hadpletely depleted their savings, bringing them to the brink of utter destitution.

    "Just now, was that the tax collector for the autumn taxes?"

    Chen Sansi stood behind Sister Lan, "How much do they want?"

    "Three taels of silver," Gu Xin replied.

    "Three taels?"

    Chen Sansi inhaled sharply, "Are they including father in the count?"

    "Yes."

    Gu Xin nodded gently, "The petty official said that since they hadn''t found father''s body, he couldn''t be dered dead and his registration couldn''t be canceled. We still have to pay the full tax, including the hunting tax too."

    Chen Sansi cursed inwardly.

    The oppressive taxes of the Dasheng Dynasty were severe, and with frequent wars in recent years, the taxes had only increased.

    "Brother Shi, don''t worry."

    Worry was evident in Gu Xin''s eyes, though she tried to reassure him, "I''ve recently got some work at a tailor''s shop and, along with doingundry for people, we should be able to scrape together something."

    Clearly, the original inhabitant waspletely financially dependent.

    Even after his father''s death, he was reluctant to seek another livelihood and preferred to have Sister Lan work herself to the bone.

    "Not even considering whether he was cut out for it..."

    Chen Sansi felt rather speechless, he couldn''t even pass the exam to be a Schr, yet he was still dreaming of one day passing the imperial examination¡ªwasn''t that the talk of a delusional person?

    He could no longer continue this way; he needed to find a means of making a living.

    Otherwise, if he couldn''t pay the taxes, the men would be sent away for forcedbor, and the women would be sold into brothels¡ªa fate worse than death.

    "I''ll go cook rice."

    Gu Xin busied herself with the task.

    Before long, the meal was prepared.

    Two bowls of a staple food made from a mixture of millet and chaff, not even pickled vegetables were served.

    This was probably thest bit of grain in the house.

    Chen Sansi noticed that his bowl had a higher proportion of milletpared to Gu Xin''s, which was mostly chaff.

    Chaff, which was the husk of grains such as rice, wheat, and soybeans, was rough and difficult to swallow.

    In the modern age, it was essentially used as livestock fodder.

    "Eat, Brother Shi."

    Gu Xin picked up her chopsticks and ate with small, deliberate bites, her fingers visibly red and swollen, the joints showing small sores.

    This was the result of washing too many clothes for others.

    As a woman, she did everything she could to provide for the family, short of the backbreakingbor only men could do.

    Chen Sansi saw this and remembered it, his head bent as he ate the hard-to-swallow chaff.

    "Brother Shi,"

    Midway through the meal, Gu Xin put down her chopsticks and hesitantly spoke, "Actually, aside from the tax silver, we still owe Aunt Li two coins for medical expenses.

    "Otherwise... I''m just suggesting, if you could just recover a bit more, maybe you could also find some work to do? If we can''t gather enough silver for the tax by the end of the month, I heard they''ll take people away..."

    As she spoke, she quietly watched his expression, her fingers anxiously picking at the corner of her clothes.

    Each time this matter was brought up before, Brother Shi would fly into a rage, saying things like how a schr shouldn''t engage in menialbor.

    "Eat your food,"

    Chen Sansi shoveled the food into his mouth quietly pondering his finances.

    Gu Xin didn''t dare to bring it up again, she quietly finished her meal, swiftly washed the pots and pans, and hurried off to her work as a femaleborer.

    Chen Sansi remained seated, deeply considering his options.

    Ancient times were not like modern society, where mere physical strength could find you work.

    His family owned nond, and without any academic title from his studies, the only thing left to do was to hunt.

    As a child, he had learned a few tricks from his father, and although he had let his skills atrophy over the years, he still had the basic foundations; it shouldn''t be hard to get started again.

    Moreover, since he had to pay hunting tax anyway, he might as well hunt.

    The house still had an old bow left.

    Chen Sansi went to the inner room and took down the longbow covered in dust from the wall.

    "It should still be usable."

    "But I have a bow with no arrows; I need to find a way to get some money to buy arrows."

    In order to survive, the household had sold nearly all of its books, leaving only the "Four Treasures of the Study" which the original owner valued as his life, as possibly thest things of some value.

    Without any hesitation, Chen Sansi packed up the writing brush, ink, paper, and inkstone and took them away.

    Even though they were all low-grade items, they sold for a total of two hundred copper coins, roughly equivalent to two silver coins.

    Enough to show that "poor schrs and rich warriors" was not an absolute, studying was also an expensive endeavor.

    With the money in hand, Chen Sansi went to the market stall that catered to hunters.

    "Little Shi, you''re here to buy arrows?"

    The stall owner Uncle Xu was from a military household and an old acquaintance of Shi''s father: "Are you preparing to hunt in the mountains instead of studying?"

    "Yes, I''m looking to buy a few old arrows."

    Chen Sansi picked out five second-hand willow leaf arrows from the stall: "How much?"

    "Seventy coins."

    Chen Sansi bargained, "Uncle Xu, old arrows aren''t worth that much. Fifty coins at most."

    "Alright, fifty coins it is."

    Old Yu was straightforward: "I say, you should''ve gone to the mountains a long time ago, learned a fair amount of your father''s skills, at least enough to make ends meet. But instead, you insisted on reading useless books. Do you think a kid from a poor family like yours could be an official?"

    "Uncle speaks the truth."

    Chen Sansi didn''t argue, and after making sure the arrows had no quality issues, he strung them on the bowstring and aimed at the ground to check.

    Suddenly, several lines of small characters appeared before his eyes.

    [Skill: Archery (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (20/100)]

 Chapter 2 Raising a Family

    "Damn, really?"

    Chen Sansi didn''t react for a moment.

    Originally, even though he had a bow and arrow, he wasn''t very confident about hitting the game.

    After all, hunting is a skill-based activity.

    If it was so easy, everyone would already be eating meat.

    But now, with the added capabilities, the situation was drastically different!

    "What are you dazing for, is there a problem with the arrow?"

    Old Xu waved his hand in front of the daydreaming youth.

    Chen Sansi snapped back to reality and quickly found an excuse: "It''s nothing, I just thought of my dad."

    "Ah, your dad was a good man, what a pity!"

    Mentioning his original father, Old Xu also sighed incessantly.

    Chen Sansi didn''t say more, paid the copper coin, took his things, and immediately left.

    He carried his bow and arrows, walking and stopping, heading straight to the foot of Tiger Head Mountain located about ten miles away.

    The mountain was the nearest ce in Po Yang County with game, and it was also the livelihood of many hunters.

    Chen Sansi had just recovered from a serious illness and had walked such a long way, so he was gasping for breath, sitting on a rock for quite a while before he recovered.

    He carefully examined the bow and arrows left by his father.

    From its construction, it was a typical recurve bow.

    The bow core was made of bamboo, the bow was made of willow wood, the bow was made of sturdy wood, and the bowstring was made of cow tendon, with a pulling force of about forty pounds, still categorized as a soft bow.

    Chen Sansi picked up the bow, and the panel from before re-emerged in his mind.

    "Skill: Archery (Entry-level)"

    "Progress: (20/100)"

    "Utility: None"

    This time, undisturbed, he managed to calm down and understand the system''s function.

    Simply put, it was about persistence!

    As long as he repeatedly and earnestly performed an action, he could gain progress, and uponpleting the progress, he would certainly break through.

    "In this way, as long as I practice hard, won''t I have the chance to be the best Divine Archer in the entire Po Yang County?"

    Chen Sansi''s heart suddenly filled with hope, remembering the tips his father had taught him when he was young, and he slowly raised the bow and arrow.

    "Is a forty-pound bow this heavy?"

    He struggled to draw the bow to its full extent, almost gnashing his teeth to do so, and couldn''t imagine what kind of people were mentioned in legends who could open a stone-bow.

    "Stand straight and steady, exert even force, grip the bow correctly, mount the arrow calmly, push forward and step back, andplete the bow-drawing pose."

    Muttering the form in his heart, Chen Sansi stood up straight, drew the bow and mounted the arrow, facing a tree trunk about forty meters away with the thickness of a hug, pushed the bow forward with his left palm, pulled the bowstring with three fingers of his right hand, slightly aimed the arrowhead downward, and then released the arrow.

    "Swoosh¡ª"

    The arrow flew off, missing the target, and hit another tree¡­

    Chen Sansi was not discouraged, and immediately took another arrow from the Arrow Bag, aimed at the target, and shot another arrow.

    This time, the arrow went directly into the grass.

    "Again!"

    Chen Sansi shot five times in a row and finally hit the tree trunk.

    He carefully approached and pulled the arrows out of the tree trunk, repeating the previous actions.

    After several repetitions, he summarized the regrity for improving the archery progress.

    As long as he shot an arrow wholeheartedly, whether it hit the target or not, he could improve his proficiency.

    If he was not focused enough, it would not work.

    Moreover, hitting the target resulted in greater progress improvement.

    After shooting over sixty arrows, Chen Sansi began to feel cramps.

    His body was originally weak, andbined with malnutrition, being able to shoot so many times consecutively was already quite an aplishment.

    Fortunately, with each arrow shot, his proficiency increased, and the more he shot, the more urate he became, rarely missing at a distance of twenty steps.

    "Skill: Archery (Entry-level)"

    "Progress: (70/100)"

    "Utility: None"

    The entry-level was not far away, but Chen Sansi had hardly any energy left.

    After resting for a while, he began to wander in the woods with his bow and arrow, trying to see if he could hunt some meat to eat with the remaining energy.

    Unfortunately, this area was too close to the town, and the easy-to-catch game was basically all gone.

    He wandered until the evening before he found a few wild pigeons, but they were too far away to hit.

    "In the past life, I always came back empty-handed from fishing, and now I''m empty-handed from hunting too?"

    Fortunately, it wasn''tpletely in vain.

    Before leaving the mountains, Chen Sansi found a patch of wild shepherd''s purse, quickly dug it up by hand, and stuffed it into his chest pocket before heading down the mountain.

    On his way, he went to the market and learned that the price of grain had gone up again.

    Due to consecutive poor harvests, the price of rice in Po Yang County had soared to one hundred copper coins per bushel, and the price of meat was even more outrageously expensive, with a pound of pork costing seventeen copper coins. Add to that oil, salt, soy sauce, vinegar, firewood, charcoal, candles, and various excessive taxes¡­

    Chen Sansi couldn''t imagine how manymon people would not survive this winter.

    Estimating that the prices of grains would continue to rise, he decided to spend all the remaining copper coins on buying rice and mixed grains along with a few salted duck eggs.

    "One bushel of rice, half a bushel of mixed grains, in total is only enough to feed two people for three to five days. If I exchanged it all for sorghum mixed with bran, it mightst a few more days."

    But Chen Sansi had no choice.

    Since he was going to be a hunter in the future, he absolutely couldn''t continue eating nutrition-less bran; he needed to ensure he had enough physical strength at all times, otherwise, if he encountered any danger in the mountains, he wouldn''t even have the energy to run.

    He was already starving, and after getting the grains, he hastened his steps, eager to get home and start cooking.

    "Yo, Little Stone!"

    Just as he was about to reach his doorstep, someone suddenly called his name from behind.

    Chen Sansi turned around, and a tall, burly man appeared in front of him.

    Qin Xiong.

    A well-known bully in the town, he had a group of thugs under him and made money by charging high-interest loans and trafficking virtuous women; many impoverished people in the town had been ruined by him.

    "Wow, bow and arrow?!"

    Qin Xiong eyed the bow and arrows behind Chen Sansi with surprise mixed with mockery: "This ''Schr'' also ns to learn to hunt in the mountains?"

    "Driven by necessity."

    Chen Sansi stepped back half a step and said, "Brother Qin, did you want to see me for something?"

    Qin Xiong hooked the corner of his mouth, "How have you considered the matter fromst time?"

    Last time?

    A sudden dread struck Chen Sansi''s heart, and unpleasant memories flooded his mind.

    Half a year ago, after his father had passed away, the household had be extremely strapped for cash.

    It just so happened that Qin Xiong came knocking, and the former owner had thought about selling Gu Xin for money.

    If it were him, naturally, he would never do such a thing.

    "Brother Qin."

    Chen Sansi refused, "I''ve thought it over, I won''t be needing your money."

    Upon hearing this, Qin Xiong''s face immediately darkened, "Are you sure you''ve thought it through?"

    "I really don''t need it, Brother Qin."

    Chen Sansi held his sack of grain tightly and took a detour on his way home, feeling somewhat uneasy.

    In his memory, Qin Xiong was not someone who would easily let things go, and he feared this matter was far from over.

    Truly, good fortunes nevere in pairs, and misfortunes nevere singly.

    He hadn''t even sorted out his meals, and now a bully had targeted him.

    Chen Sansi touched the arrow bag at his waist.

    A bow and five arrows were his greatest reassurance living at the bottom of this chaotic world.

    He didn''t know what changes would follow after progressing past the entry-level of the system.

    "I need to fill my stomach first to have the energy to practice archery!"

    Chen Sansi pushed open his home''s door, only to find Sister Lan had not yet returned.

    Every day, she was busyboring, sewing in the tailor shop in the morning and washing clothes for the wealthy families in the afternoon.

    He took the initiative to chop wood and start a fire, preparing the meal in advance.

    in rice served with salted duck eggs, and a soup of boiled wild greens.

    For many households, this was already a decent meal.

    When Gu Xin returned home after her busy day, for the first time ever, she was surprised by the steaming ready-made meal: "Brother Shi, where did the white rice and salted duck eggse from at home?"

    "Eat."

    Chen Sansi beckoned her to sit down, then grabbed the chopsticks and wolfed down the food.

    He had been starving.

    "Brother Shi¡­"

    "Hmm?"

    Chen Sansi had his head down eating away, when he finally noticed that Gu Xin hadn''t touched her chopsticks.

    Her eyes had reddened unknowingly, and tears trembled on hershes as she choked up and said, "Can you... not sell me?"

    "Ah?"

    Chen Sansi was stunned and a bit confused.

    "I heard people say that you made a deal with that Qin Xiong today¡­"

    Gu Xin''s voice trembled.

    Otherwise, where would the silver to buy white rice and even salted duck eggse from?

    She frantically pulled out a patched-up purse from her waist, poured out a few copper coins, and pleaded, "Brother Shi, I was wrong.

    "I won''t urge you to work anymore, just stay at home and study, I can earn money, I can pay the taxes, please don''t sell me."

    Everyone in Po Yang County knew of Qin Xiong''s reputation.

    Landing in his hands, she was likely to be sold to a brothel.

    The reason Gu Xin had faithfully stayed with the Chen Family all these years was precisely because Chen Sansi''s father had bought her from a trafficker, preventing her from bing a prostitute, and thus she remained grateful.

    Was she really unable to escape this miserable fate in the end?

    "Sister Lan, you''re overthinking it."

    Chen Sansi understood, guessing that someone had been spreading rumours.

    Heforted her, "You are a member of the Chen family, how could I possibly sell you?"

    Having someone around who was as intimate as a sister was incredibly valuable to someone new like himself; he would never push her away, or else wouldn''t that be terribly disgraceful?

    Gu Xin didn''t make a sound, she just sat there sobbing, obviously not convinced.

    Chen Sansi was helpless, he grabbed her swollen hand and led her into the inner room: "The food was bought with the money from selling my books, not from Qin Xiong."

    Gu Xin saw the empty book desk and a bow and arrow hanging on the wall, and was stunned, "Brother Shi, you sold all the schr''s four jewels for a bow and arrows?"

    "Yes."

    Chen Sansi patiently exined, "From now on, I n to follow father''s footsteps, hunting to support the family, how can I let a woman like you suffer so much, your hands are even chapped."

    "To support the family¡­"

    Gu Xin never thought she would hear Brother Shi say these words.

    She realized her decaying hand was still being held by him, feeling somewhat inferior, she tried to pull it back, but instead was embraced tightly.

    "Rest assured!"

    Chen Sansi, seeing her severe insecurity, spoke solemnly, "Father once said, you were to be my wife, why would I send my wife away?"

    Gu Xin was startled by the sudden embrace, feeling the warmth, she looked up incredulously at him, "Brother Shi, you... you don''t mind that I am of low status?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "I don''t mind."

    Chen Sansi affirmed, "I can''t like you enough."

    "Brother Shi, you are all the family I have left in this world, don''t deceive me."

    Gu Xin no longer tried to escape, but after a few tests, finally rested her cheek against his chest, feeling this rare warmth.

    "Sister Lan."

    "What is it?"

    "I feel a bit sore today, let''s go to bed, can you give me a massage?"

    "Alright."

    ...

    "Ah... Brother Shi, wasn''t it a massage?"

    "I''ll massage you."

    "Mmm, mmm~"

 Chapter 3 Entry-Level Archery

    The next day.

    The rooster crowed at dawn, and the morning fog was thinning.

    Chen Sansi woke up early, with Warm Jade hot in his embrace.

    With cheeks pink like peaches, Gu Xin was still deep asleep, clinging tightly to his arm, almost leaving marks.

    In feudal society, a helpless woman could easily be reduced to a ything and trafficked, hence ack of security was understandable.

    Chen Sansi struggled to free his arm.

    Having taken advantage of her, he must now take responsibility.

    Thinking back, despite Gu Xin''s frail appearance, she was... like a delicate branch bearing heavy fruit. He couldn''t fathom why his former self had failed to cherish her.

    In his previous life, she wouldn''t be his to marry without at least two million!

    Chen Sansi tiptoed out of bed and grabbed the bow and arrows from the wall before heading outside.

    "Whoo¡ª"

    He took several deep breaths to calm his cluttered thoughts and aimed at a crooked willow tree to start practicing Archery with focus.

    After resting for half the night, his spirits and Qi Power were almost fully restored, and his aim was quite impressive as well.

    Within twenty steps, he could nearly hit the target with every shot.

    To minimize wear and tear, he practiced with only one arrow, yet even so, it was severely worn by the end of the morning.

    Inside the house.

    Gu Xin peeped through the paper-covered window at Chen Sansi, drenched in sweat, and inexplicably felt relieved.

    "Brother Shi is serious... He really ns to hunt and make a life with me."

    She soon felt sorry for him.

    "He was up all night, and now he''s up early practicing archery. What if he exhausts himself..."

    Gu Xin leaned against the wall and limped to start the fire and cook.

    ...

    "Got it!"

    Another arrow was shot, and Chen Sansi took a long breath.

    [Skill: Archery (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (0/200)]

    [Utility: Use a Six Power Bow, no miss within forty steps]

    Just moments ago, it felt as though some power was infused into his body, not only significantly enhancing his physical strength but also elevating his archery skills to another level.

    Archery entry-level!

    Chen Sansi observed the changes on the panel.

    Six Power Bow, no miss within forty steps.

    In the Dasheng Dynasty, one Power equals twelve jin (a unit of weight), so a Six Power Bow equals seventy-two jin!

    As far as he knew, the city guards also used Six Power Bows.

    This meant, he had now reached the standard of an ordinary archer.

    You see, in ancient armies, soldiers who qualified as archers were considered elite!

    Thetter sentence, "no miss within forty steps."

    A step in the Dasheng Dynasty meant moving both feet once, about one point four meters, so forty steps were slightly over fifty meters.

    Don''t underestimate this distance.

    The effective range for an ordinary archer in battle was about a hundred steps, but that was for shooting volleys into the air, not precision targeting.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Normally, precision for a distance of forty to fifty steps was also required for assessments.

    The archerypetitions Chen Sansi had seen in his previous life usually had targets about seventy meters away, and those were with modern bows.

    And he achieved no miss within forty steps, every arrow hitting the bullseye, which doesn''t mean he couldn''t hit targets at seventy meters; it just meant he couldn''t guarantee a bullseye every time.

    Overall, based on the panel''s disy, he was nearly qualified to be assessed as an archer.

    Chen Sansi couldn''t wait to try it out.

    He drew the bow again, his movements as proficient as a seasoned archer''s.

    The Four-Force Bow that felt quite heavy an hour ago now seemed incredibly light when fully drawn, almost effortless.

    After advancing in archery, his physical strength had also greatly improved!

    He calmed his emotions and tried shooting a few arrows. Indeed, his uracy doubled; he hit every target within forty steps, and even those over sixty steps away were not bad.

    Good!

    With this level of skill, he could definitely hit game animals!

    The most crucial point was, this was just the beginning.

    Chen Sansi dared not imagine what it would be like if his archery skills reached small achievement or great sess.

    "Brother Shi, dinner is ready~"

    A soft, bone-melting voice came from inside the house.

    Chen Sansi then put away his bow.

    He saw that although only one night had passed, Sister Lan had changed dramatically, exuding an indescribable charm along with her almond eyes, drawing extra attention.

    At the dining table, there were two bowls of rice.

    One bowl contained rice with steamed buns; the other held half a bowl of thin porridge.

    The grain bought with a single silver coin couldn''tst more than a few days, and clearly, Gu Xin was still reluctant to eat her fill.

    Chen Sansi wasn''t fussy, either. His archery practice consumed a lot of energy, and he needed even more since he was about to head up the mountain; after giving Sister Lan half a steamed bun, he ate everything else left.

    Full and content, he slung his bow over his shoulder and stepped outside.

    "Be careful, Brother Shi, even if you don''t catch anything, don''t go too deep. Just gather some wild vegetables and firewood to bring back,"

    Gu Xin did not believe that her man could catch any game just after beginning to practice archery; safety always came first.

    As long as they could ovee the current hardship together, she was willing to work herself to the bone even if Brother Shi wanted to leave his job to study in the future.

    When Chen Sansi left his house, the day was already bright.

    The neighbors were all starting their busy day; many looked on in curiosity at the sight of him carrying a bow and arrows.

    "Oh, is Brother Shi preparing to go hunting up the mountain?"

    "Can he do it?"

    "Look, I told you early on, he can''t make sense of books!"

    "Go to hell, Lai Zi, at least he knows how to hunt. What can you do?"

    "Little Shi, do you need Uncle Zhao to apany you for a couple of days?"

    "Be careful. Your family is depending on you."

    The vigers had their fair share of snide remarks, but thanks to his father''s good reputation, the majority were warm-hearted.

    Chen Sansi greeted everyone he met, quickening his pace toward Tiger Head Mountain.

    After mastering entry-level archery, his strength had increased, and he could now draw a Six Power Bow, which significantly improved his physical condition. What previously took two hours to reach the foot of Tiger Head Mountain now took him less than an hour and a half.

    Following the winding path carved out by earlier travelers, Chen Sansi arrived at the midsection of the mountain, searching for signs of game.

    Yet, after wandering around for quite a while, apart from some insects and sparrows, he discovered nothing.

    Normally, a qualified hunter would need the aid of tools like hunting dogs and animal traps, but he was too poor to afford anything beyond a bow.

    No, he had to seed; otherwise, the modest amount of food at home would quickly run out.

    Chen Sansi closed his eyes, trying hard to recall the extensive lessons from his father''s youth.

    For instance, determining what kind of game could be nearby based on the feces; what kinds of environments certain animals preferred; the habits of various animals; and also how to walk through the jungle without rming the prey, and so on.

    [Tracking and Stealth (Uninitiated)]

    [Progress: 3/100]

    [Utility: None]

    ?

    Looking at the rows of text that suddenly appeared, Chen Sansi was somewhat baffled.

    "Is this possible?"

    "Could it be that as long as it''s a technical task, I can manage it?"

    "Alright, alright, alright, it''s time I earn my living by hunting!"

    Curbing the joy of discovering he had more than one skill, he began to search for tracks more meticulously.

    This searchsted almost half a day.

    By the time Chen Sansi sat down to rest, his proficiency had also progressed.

    [Tracking and Stealth (Beginner)]

    [Progress: 0/200]

    [Utility: Keen Observation, Light Steps]

    Chen Sansi''s senses sharpened significantly; he could easily pinpoint the exact direction of birds'' calls in the forest, effortlessly observe the subtle movements of small insects and ants on the ground, feeling as if everything was within his grasp.

    He got up and resumed his search, and soon near a bush, he spotted some animal droppings.

    Round and ck, the size of beans.

    There were also oval footprints in the loose soil nearby.

    A wild rabbit!

    "The droppings are fresh; it must be nearby!"

    Following the trail, Chen Sansi moved forward. Under the effect of [Tracking and Stealth], he made almost no sound.

    He entered a wooded area and then saw in the distance a plump gray rabbit, focused on gnawing at the grass,pletely unaware of any danger.

    "What a fat rabbit!"

    Chen Sansi''s eyes turned sharp as he drew his Recurve Bow, his three fingers firmly gripping the bowstring, ready as a hungry wolf poised to strike.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    The sound of the arrow ripping through the air was heard.

    Within forty steps, his arrow did not miss!

    In a blink, the arrow pierced straight through the rabbit.

    He had hit it!

    His first sessful hunt in life!

 Chapter 4 Tax Collection

    Chen Sansi excitedly ran over, picked up the rabbit from the ground, and weighed it a few times, estimating it to be around seven or eight jins in weight.

    "Based on the current market price, this could sell for at least sixty copper coins!"

    He wasn''t in a rush to descend the mountain; instead, he securely bound the rabbit with a rope and hung it on his body, continuing to search for new prey.

    "Goo goo¡ª"

    Nearby, the calls of birds continued unabated.

    With the help of "Tracking and Hiding," Chen Sansi quickly located two pigeons perched far away on tree branches.

    He nocked the arrow, drew the bow, pulled the string, and released the arrow¡ªa sequence of movements as fluid as flowing water.

    A blurred shadow shed by, and the two pigeons were shot through in a string, falling from the tree with a "plop" to the ground.

    Chen Sansi smoothly pocketed the pigeons.

    Pigeons, being highly nutritious, were priced slightly above rabbits; the twobined were worth thirty copper coins.

    He wanted to continue, but unfortunately, it was getting dark, and he could only pack up and head down the mountain.

    Selling game required going to the restaurants in the county town.

    Along the way, he would pass through many viges even poorer than Yanbian Vige, where each viger''s face was gaunt and yellowed, and somey motionless on the ground, leaving him to wonder if they were dead or alive.

    When they saw the game in Chen Sansi''s hands, they all cast envious and greedy nces, but upon spotting the bow and arrows on his back, they could only forcefully suppress their sinister thoughts.

    "Eight Treasures Restaurant."

    An hourter.

    Chen Sansi stood before the towering gold-ted signboard of the restaurant, pausing in his steps.

    This was the restaurant where his father used to sell his game; it was one of the top restaurants in the city, where a casual meal supposedly cost at least three to five taels of silver.

    Just now, by the roadside, there were people nearly starving to death, yet now he personally witnessed a rich man carelessly discarding a full te of fresh food on the ground to feed to dogs.

    "This is truly ''wealthy homes reek of meat and wine, while bodies freeze to death on the roadside''..."

    A poor harvest of crops?

    If all the grain in the granaries were taken out, it might well be enough to feed the whole town through the winter.

    Chen Sansi felt emotionally moved.

    The shopkeeper who came out to greet him at the restaurant was an acquaintance of his father.

    "Eight jin and two liang of rabbit meat, and a pigeon weighing half a jin, a total of eighty-five wen," said the slightly portly middle-aged man, dexterously maneuvering the beads on his abacus: "Does that seem fair to you?"

    "Fair enough, thank you Uncle Liu," replied Chen Sansi, who knew the going rates.

    Liu Hongda smiled and said, "If you have good merchandise in the future, just bring it here, and I guarantee you won''t be shortchanged a single penny."

    Chen Sansi took the copper coins.

    ''To earn nearly a qian of silver in one day is definitely enough for living expenses in normal times.''

    ''But now with taxes due soon and debts to be paid, this amount is simply not enough.''

    ''I must huntrger game!''

    As he was counting the copper coins, a skinny, dark-skinned youth came over to sell fish.

    "Brother Shi?!"

    The youth recognized him at a nce.

    The corresponding name also quickly surfaced in Chen Sansi''s mind.

    Zhang Shun.

    Aunt Li''s child, with whom he had once bare-bottomedly yed in the mud during childhood.

    If it hadn''t been for Aunt Li taking Sister Lan to work, asionally bestowing a little help, they probably would have starved to death by now.

    "Shun, you''vee at just the right time," said Chen Sansi, pulling out the still warm copper coins: "The money I owe your family..."

    Before he could finish, Shun interrupted him.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Brother Shi, don''t worry, I''m not in urgent need of money right now," said Zhang Shun while lifting the fish basket at his feet, showing the full catch within, which even included arge fish weighing seven or eight jins: "It''s you who have just recovered from illness and need money more. Pay me back when you are in a better financial position!"

    "Alright, thank you Shun," Chen Sansi did not refuse further.

    He owed the family two qian of silver. One qian was not enough; he might as well wait until he could repay it all at once, both principal and interest.

    "Bro, don''t mention it, you are the one who taught me how to read when we were kids!"

    Since both lived in Po Yang County, they naturally went back home together.

    During their conversational walk, he learned that Shun''s family had saved up more than ten taels of silver and was nning to join a Martial Arts Hall to learn martial arts soon.

    "Martial arts, huh," mused Chen Sansi, well aware that in this world, those able to practice martial arts held exceptional status.

    For amon family''s child to enter a Martial Arts Hall was to make something of oneself, and achieving even small sesses would bring glory to the ancestors.

    With a Progress Panel on him that tracked his martial arts learning, he naturally wanted to practice martial arts as well. However, the tuition fees were hefty, and he first needed to get past the current difficulties and save enough silver.

    Upon reaching the town, Chen Sansi and Shun parted ways.

    He had not even reached home when he saw a graceful figure anxiously looking out at the doorway from afar.

    It was Gu Xin, of course.

    She had deliberately finished work early and gone home to cook, waiting for the man to return. As dusk approached and he was still nowhere in sight, she nearly panicked to the point of heading up the mountain to look for him.

    "Brother Shi!"

    Gu Xin hurried over, half concerned, half reproaching as she said, "It''s already dark and you just got back, are you trying to scare me to death? Haven''t I told you it doesn''t matter if you can''t catch anything?"

    Chen Sansi didn''t rush to speak, but cheerfully pulled out a gray pigeon from behind his back.

    "Ah, did Brother Shi catch something?"

    Before Gu Xin could recover, a bag of copper coins was thrust into her hands, and a gentle voice simultaneously sounded in her ear, "Tonight, we eat meat."

    Half an hourter.

    On the dining table, besides the salted duck egg with rice, there was also a pot of fragrant pigeon soup.

    Ever since Xin Lan''s father passed away, their family hadn''t had meat for half a year.

    "Brother Shi, you''re truly amazing."

    Gu Xin still couldn''t quite believe it, "I heard even Uncle Zhao from the vige returned empty-handed today."

    "I just got lucky, Uncle Zhao and the others are old hands at Second Layer Mountain; they always bring back big catches."

    Chen Sansi gnawed on a pigeon leg, relishing the salted duck egg mixed with rice, feeling immense satisfaction in his stomach.

    He purposefully didn''t sell everything for silver, just so he and Sister Lan could nourish themselves.

    But Gu Xin still refrained from eating the meat.

    After Chen Sansi urged her again and again, she finally ate a pigeon wing.

    After a satisfying meal, he sat on the edge of the bed, pulling Sister Lan to sit beside him; she lowered her head, her face flushed, fingers nervously intertwined.

    Today marked their first day of marriage.

    Under the flickering candlelight, Chen Sansi took his time to carefully observe Sister Lan''s pretty face for the first time.

    Her fine arched eyebrows were charming, apricot eyes reflecting the candlelight as if autumn waters mirrored the moon, her slightly flushed cheeks resembled peach blossoms¡ªshe radiated an irresistible charm all over.

    And on top of that, she could read and was skilled in embroidery¡ªif it weren''t for the coarse hemp clothes she wore, she would be a perfect youngdy from a reputable family.

    "Sister Lan."

    Chen Sansi unconsciously drew closer.

    "What''s wrong, Brother Shi?"

    "You smell so good."

    "Brother Shi, I... I still hurt."

    ...

    Late at night.

    Chen Sansi leaned against the bed head, his arm still being tightly clung to.

    "Brother Shi~"

    Gu Xin looked worried, "Did we offend that Qin Xiong?"

    "Qin Xiong?"

    "Mhm."

    Gu Xin nodded, "I heard from the neighbors that Mr. Qin had been lingering at our doorstep for quite a while during the day."

    "..."

    Chen Sansi took note.

    It seems that fellow really isn''t willing to let things go, I''ll have to be more cautious in the future.

    Heforted her, "Go to sleep, Sister Lan; I''m here."

    "Mhm."

    Gu Xin was already exhausted and quickly fell asleep.

    Thesest few days, she somehow felt at ease.

    Chen Sansi leaned against the bed head and noticed a leftover old book at the bedside that hadn''t been sold, so he picked it up and flipped through it.

    [Skill: Reading (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (15/300)]

    [Utility: Spirit refreshed, photographic memory]

    "Not bad at all."

    While hunting during the day, when he realized the skill [Tracking] he wondered, could reading work too?

    It turned out he wasn''t wrong.

    Not only that, but he had reached entry-level right away.

    Looking at how the original body had umted knowledge, howe he never managed to be a Schr?

    Holding the book in hand, Chen Sansi estimated that if he were to take the civil service exam, he would surely pass.

    Unfortunately, the next exam wasn''t for another two years, too long to wait.

    First, he needed to survive.

    After browsing the book for a while, Chen Sansi also fell into a deep sleep.

    "Thud, thud, thud¡ª"

    "Open up!"

    "Open the door quickly!"

    The next morning.

    Chen Sansi was awakened by the urgent knocking.

    He told Sister Lan to dress and hide in the inner room, then he got up to open the door.

 Chapter 5 Persecution

    Outside the door were two officials.

    One was holding a register, and the other wielded a long whip.

    Tax collectors.

    Without thinking, everyone knew what they hade for.

    Chen San, with all due politeness, said, "Sirs, please give me just half a month more, and I will have the taxes ready!"

    ording to the regtions of previous years, the deadline for tax payment was still about twenty days away.

    He strived hard, gathering three liang of silver should not be difficult.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    However, the tax collector sneered, "Considering the barbarians from the north constantly harassing us and the thieves from the south causing trouble, the Great Sheng Dynasty needs your grateful contributions now. How can we wait that long?"

    Chen Sansi inquired, "Then, Sir, how long do I have?"

    "Seven days!"

    The tax collector held up three fingers, "Within seven days, anyone who fails to pay their taxes will be sent to Hezhou to work on the canal!"

    With that, the two clerks turned around and left, knocking on the next house''s door¡ªwhich had also not yet paid its taxes¡ªlike heralds of doom. If they encountered any resistance, they would administer a couple ofshes.

    "Why has the tax collection been advanced by so much?"

    "It must be rted to the war and turmoil."

    Chen Sansi''s Yanbian Vige in Po Yang County was situated right on the northern frontier of the Great Sheng Dynasty. Northwards were the garrisons and the Great Wall, beyond whichy the barbarian tribes.

    In recent ten years, the frequency of barbarian raids had increased; there had even been instances of small groups of barbarian cavalry breaking into the territory, plundering an entire vige before making a brazen escape.

    It was only three years ago that the court sent a new elite military force to maintain control, stabilizing the situation, but the minor conflicts near the Great Wall never ceased.

    Not just the north, the south was also restless.

    Chen Sansi, although not well-informed, was aware of the constant uprisings in the south; although they were quickly suppressed each time, there was always someone new to take up the cause.

    "Seven days!"

    "What''s the use of hurrying us like this? Canmon folk just conjure up silver and food out of thin air?"

    As someone with basic historical knowledge from the modern era, he knew that the dynasty was in its twilight years and chaotic times were approaching, making life increasingly difficult for themon people.

    "Brother Shi, what''s going on?"

    Inside the house, Gu Xin asked with concern.

    "It''s nothing."

    Chen Sansi didn''t want others to worry unnecessarily. He pretended as if nothing had happened and, like usual, finished his archery practice, ate breakfast, then took his dry food and bow and left the house.

    Since he had found himself at the bottom rung in these chaotic times, he could only try to survive by ying by the rules.

    Gathering three liang of silver in seven days was no easy task.

    Chen Sansi was under considerable pressure.

    It wasn''t just him; the fellow vigers were all in distress.

    As he was about to leave the vige, he saw a few familiar figures and frowned, attempting to avoid them.

    "Little Stone."

    Qin Xiong, leading two ruffians, moved purposefully towards him, "Why are you avoiding me?"

    Chen Sansi could guess that the other party was nning to take advantage of the situation.

    He bluntly stated, "Brother Qin, if this is about what happenedst time, there''s no need to discuss it further."

    "Have you forgotten the tax collector''s words? If we can''t gather enough silver, we''ll be sent to work on the canal."

    Qin Xiong put on a fa?ade of kindness, feigning sympathy, "Whoever ends up with that job, there''s no record of anyone returning alive. Brother, take a loss here; give me that young woman you''re hiding at home, and I''ll handle your taxes for you. How about that?"

    "If I really get taken to work on the canal, I''ll ept my bad luck. No need for Brother Qin''s concern."

    Chen Sansi said expressionlessly and started to walk away.

    Having learned the basics of archery, he relied on his physical strength considerably more when he spoke.

    However, it wasn''t necessary to escte conflicts just yet.

    Firstly, Qin Xiong had a group of ruffians at hismand.

    Secondly, this scoundrel had a brother who practiced martial arts, purportedly very formidable, not someone to provoke lightly.

    Qin Xiong didn''t stop him, just watched coldly as he walked away.

    "Big brother, if you ask me, just rob him directly, why bother with the silver?"

    One of the ruffiansined loudly.

    "Idiot!"

    Qin Xiong smacked the ruffian on the forehead, "Do you think the Great Sheng Dynasty has nows at all?"

    Abducting peasant girls used to ur frequently, but since the new Liangzhou Governor took office, no one dared tomit such acts again.

    "What should we do now?"

    The rogue asked, "Isn''t Big Brother still waiting to use that woman to give Brother a gift?"

    "What''s the rush, does he really think he can gather three taels of silver that quickly?"

    Qin Xiong sneered disdainfully, "By then, he''ll be taken to work on the Canal and won''t have to spend a penny!"

    ...

    "Three taels of silver within seven days."

    "It seems I must indeed hunt some big game."

    "Once the tax matter is resolved, we''ll find a way to deal with that Qin fellow."

    After arriving at Tiger Head Mountain, Chen Sansi noted it was still early; manyrge animals only appeared at sunset, so he wasn''t in a hurry and found a clearing to practice archery.

    When he practiced archery, he felt effortless and rather adept.

    Not to mention a hundred percent uracy within forty steps, he also achieved over eighty percent of bullseyes within fifty steps.

    Only it used up a lot of arrows.

    "Crack!"

    Another arrow hit the bullseye, but the arrow broke upon impact.

    Chen Sansi felt quite distressed.

    A new arrow would cost at least ten wen!

    However, arrows are consumables, and since all he had were used ones, wear and tear were normal.

    [Skill: Archery (entry-level)]

    [Progress: (128/200)]

    [Utility: Draw Six Power Bow, no misses within forty steps]

    A panel appeared.

    "If I push hard tomorrow, I should be able to advance to the next stage."

    Chen Sansi ate some dry food to fill his stomach, then got back to work.

    With his sharp senses, he missed no trace; soon after, he found a rabbit near some bushes through its droppings.

    Without a doubt, one arrow pierced it through, and he bagged it.

    "Isn''t there anyrger game?"

    Chen Sansi was naturally not satisfied with just that.

    But even with his tracking skills, he found no signs of anyrge animals having been around that afternoon until the sun set, when he finally spotted a pheasant through some feathers on a hillside.

    The arrow struck like thunder!

    The arrow pierced the pheasant''s body, and its inertia carried the corpse and pinned it to a nearby tree trunk.

    "About four pounds."

    "Pheasant is delicious, only second to pork in price, and this one could sell for about seventy wen."

    "But, it''s still far from enough."

    Chen Sansi could now be sure that there were norge game animals around the outskirts of Tiger Head Mountain.

    After all, he possessed the skill "Tracking," and he would not overlook any clue; no trace meant there really was none.

    [Tracking (entry-level)]

    [Progress: 101/200]

    [Utility: Keen observation, light steps]

    "Tracking is also about to advance to the next stage."

    "Perhaps, I should consider venturing deeper into the mountains."

    The deeper the area, the more abundant the game, but also the more dangerous. Typically, only experienced hunters, like Uncle Zhao from his vige, would venture there.

    Starting from Second Layer Mountain, there are wild boars and even big cats and ck bears; every year, many hunters perish there.

    Previously, as a beginner in hunting, Chen Sansi wisely refrained from venturing too deep, but now it seemed he must.

    However, his archery was about to advance, so he might as well give it a try.

    "I''ll return and prepare well."

    "Tomorrow, I''ll scout around Second Layer Mountain!"

 Chapter 6 Wolf Teeth Arrow

    After making up his mind, Chen Sansi started to clean up the scene.

    When he was handling the wild chicken, he used too much force and identally broke the arrow shaft that was stuck in it.

    "The quality of used arrows is worrisome!"

    Chen Sansi shook his head, retrieved the arrowhead, and carried his game down the mountain.

    Having hunted all day, his stomach had been growling, but his spirit was still very full, always alert to his surroundings.

    "It must be the effect of ''spirit refreshed.''"

    "It seems that I should sparingly read more books at night, and not just think about happy times with Sister Lan."

    "Archery, hunting, reading, I want to be a diligent person."

    It was still early today. When he passed through Yanbian Vige, many vigers saw Chen Sansi with a chicken in one hand and a rabbit in the other, carrying a full load.

    "You boy are capable!"

    "Little Shi is really amazing; just started hunting and can bring something home every day."

    "Psht~ Like father like son."

    "Lai Zi, look at you, sour grapes, can''t stand to see others do well."

    "What do I have to be sour about, this little money is not even enough to pay the taxes!"

    "Really though."

    When the topic of taxes came up,ints could be heard everywhere.

    How many people''s savings of a full year were squeezed clean.

    "Brother Shi, wait up, I was looking for you!"

    "Shun?"

    Chen Sansi looked at the skinny and dark teenager running towards him, "What''s up, Shun?"

    "Brother, do you need my help?"

    Zhang Shun hade to ask about the situation immediately after selling fish today due to the issue of early taxation.

    "You... aren''t you still practicing your martial arts?"

    Chen Sansi was somewhat moved.

    Gathering three liangs of silver in seven days, no one had a hundred percent certainty.

    If he could borrow the money in advance, it would naturally be better than good.

    If worsees to worst, he could save up and double repay it, making a proper thanks.

    "Martial arts doesn''t urge in these two days, paying taxes is urgent."

    Zhang Shun scratched his head and said honestly, "Brother,e with me to my house, we have some silver."

    Three liangs of silver!

    For ordinary folks, this was absolutely a huge sum.

    Chen Sansi was touched, "Nine for thirteen return, I can''t just use your money for free."

    "Brother, what are you saying."

    Zhang Shun said, "Not to mention that you taught me literacy since I was young, but do you remember that time we yed in the river? If it wasn''t for you pulling me up, I would have drowned by now, why mention this!"

    It''s one thing to say, but to help during tough times is indeed precious.

    "Brother, wait here, I''ll go home and get the money!"

    Shun didn''t give an opportunity to refuse and turned and ran back madly.

    Since the other party wasn''t asking for interest, Chen Sansi felt uneasy about using the money with no return.

    He carried his wild chicken and rabbit and followed, nning to offer them as a thank you gift.

    The two families lived not far from each other, reaching the destination in ten minutes. Shun''s house door wasn''t even closed.

    Just as Chen Sansi was about to visit, a gust of wind brought the sound of an argument to him.

    "Shun, three liangs of silver, are you mad?"

    "Mom, that''s my Brother Shi who saved my life when I was young!"

    "Saving your life, so what? Hasn''t our family repaid him? When he fell ill before, wasn''t it our family who paid for his treatment?"

    "Mom..."

    "Our whole family has been working day and night for so many years, barely saving some silver, isn''t it just so you can enter the Martial Arts Hall and be a martial master? At least, have some pity on your father? He''s beenme for half a year and still hesitant to spend money on treatment, and you just give away three liangs of silver to someone outside?"

    "¡­"

    Chen Sansi stopped in his tracks, silently set down a wild chicken, and turned to leave.

    He did not hold any grudges for the unanswered help. In fact, he respected Shun''s sentiment even more.

    Neither of them was from a wealthy family; everyone had difficult days.

    He really had to rely on himself!

    Chen Sansi became even more determined to go to Second Layer Mountain.

    He reached the county''s Eight Treasures Building before sunset.

    The rabbit weighed almost as much as thest one, sold for seventy-one wen.

    With the money in hand, he didn''t rush home but went to the market to prepare for the trip to Second Layer Mountain the next day.

    "Yo, Young Shi here again?"

    Old Xu greeted him warmly.

    "Uncle Xu, I''d like to buy some arrows."

    Chen Sansi''s willow leaf arrows were okay for hitting rabbits and wild chickens, but if he truly met arge game with tough skin, they were not lethal enough.

    "What kind are you thinking of, uncle here has them all."

    Looking around, there were seven or eight types of arrows on disy at the stall, all of high quality, some of which were obviously not something a civilian shop could make, belonging to the category of military ordnance.

    There was a garrison station fifty li outside Po Yang County city, and military ordnance circting in the market was not a surprising matter.

    Not to mention, Old Xu was from a military household, and with his son seeding him and bing a small g, having a channel to resell some ordinary military goods was nothing unusual.

    Chen Sansi''s gaze wandered over the stall.

    Most of the arrows were made of por wood, with bird feathers hanging on the tail, and their main differencey in the arrowheads.

    Different arrowheads, different purposes.

    There were ones with strong prating power, ones withrge wound profiles, ones for shooting horses, ones for naval warfare, and even specialized signal arrows for messaging, truly a wide variety.

    He finally chose a uniquely shaped arrowhead.

    Wolf Teeth Arrow.

    As the name suggests, the arrowhead had two side hooks shaped like protruding wolf teeth.

    Once this arrow hit, the side hooks would firmly lodge inside the body, and trying to pull it out would tear off arge chunk of flesh; if not removed, it would continue to grind the flesh. Whether for hunting beasts or hunters, it had a very strong lethality.

    Old Xu said, "This Wolf Teeth Arrow is good quality, I sell it to others for twenty-three wen each, but for you, twenty wen."

    "Can''t it be cheaper?"

    "Any cheaper and I''d be losing money."

    Chen Sansi bit his teeth and bought five.

    But he understood the principle of sharp ax making light work; to make a sale, you have to be willing to invest.

    If conditions allowed, he would also like to buy a heavy bow.

    After all, the main force in killing with a bow and arrow lies in the draw weight.

    He intentionally took a longer look; the heaviest one on this stall was just the Four-Force Bow, with nothing heavier avable.

    Only a heavy bow could pierce armor.

    It seems there was a limit to how far one could go in dealing in military arms.

    Money paid, goods delivered.

    The two arrowheads he had worn out previously, added together, deducted eleven coins, making the final payment eighty-nine coins.

    "A day''s work for nothing, and quite a bit out of pocket to boot!"

    Chen Sansi put the Wolf Teeth Arrow into his bag and hurried home.

    On the way back.

    Chen Sansi ran into Qin Xiong and his ruffian followers, squatting on the essential path home, casting malevolent nces his way.

    They were clearly using this method to intimidate him on purpose.

    "The evil spirit never leaves; it''s impossible to hide."

    "Better pay the tax first then think of a n."

    Chen Sansi chose to ignore them and went straight home.

    "Big brother, he''s very arrogant!"

    "Shall I go beat him up?"

    The ruffians gritted their teeth and discussed sneeringly.

    "Beat him up?"

    Qin Xiong pointed at the bow and arrows on Chen Sansi''s back and asked, "Do you know what those are?"

    "Bow and arrows."

    "A Four-Force Bow, enough to shoot you stone-cold! You think you can beat him if he can handle that thing?"

    Qin Xiong was somewhat frustrated.

    At first, he thought Mr. Chen was just a schr, and that going hunting in the mountain was simply a stroke of luck.

    But after some inquiries, he learned that the kid could actually make sales two days in a row, proving he really had strength, and wasn''t just fooling around.

    Hunters in the vige were actually not easy to provoke.

    They had only bullied the kid because his father had died and he was just a schr.

    Of course, in this world, having strength was useless; having money was important.

    Rabbits and wild chickens weren''t worth much silver.

    If he couldn''t gather three taels of silver in a few days, he''d still be under Qin Xiong''s thumb.

    ¡­

    Late at night.

    Chen Sansi got out of bed agilely.

    As for Sister Lan, she was too tired and had fallen asleep.

    "I''m still too young and impetuous."

    Chen Sansi was somewhat annoyed; he had promised to study at home.

    With no time for reading, he couldn''t dy practicing archery any longer.

    Before going to the mountain, it was best to advance his archery to the next stage.

    He took his bow and stepped outside,ing to the clearing in front of the forest behind his house, beginning to practice archery under the moonlight.

    As arrow after arrow shot out, his proficiency continued to climb.

    He kept practicing until thete hours of the night, only then did Chen Sansi return to his room to sleep for a few hours, getting up immediately upon hearing the rooster''s crow to practice archery.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Shiu¡ª"

    Another arrow shot out, directly hitting an early-rising sparrow looking for food from the treetop.

    Simultaneously, the panel changed.

    [Skill: Archery (Master)]

    [Progress: (0/500)]

    [Utility: Physical enhancement, Natural Bowman, Effortless operation of a stone-bow, within seventy steps, three shots in the blink of an eye with unerring uracy]

    This time, when the panel upgraded, not only did Chen Sansi''s strength and archery improve drastically, but even his muscles and bones changed, causing his physique to surge.

    With this physique, even though he had never practiced martial arts, he could easily draw a one-stone heavy bow, hitting a target the size of a palm from eighty meters away with every arrow.

    In the Dasheng Dynasty, one stone is approximately one hundred and fifty kilograms.

    This weight of bow and arrows was generally only used by those practicing martial arts.

    A target the size of a palm, seen from eighty meters away, actually appears as just a dot.

    As for the finger snap triple-shot.

    Buddhist scriptures have recorded: twenty finger snaps make one Luo Yu, twenty Luo Yus make one moment, and one day and night consist of thirty moments.

    ording to this exnation, a "finger snap" calctiones to about seven seconds.

    Finger snap triple-shot.

    That is to say, the four actions of drawing the bow, setting the arrow, and firing, take about two seconds for one urate shot.

    A one-stone bow, eighty meters, two seconds.

    Taken alone these do not sound exaggerated, but when these three terms arebined, they are quite terrifying.

    Chen Sansi was somewhat surprised.

    He never imagined that proficiency could not only improve technique but also enhance physique.

    He felt his bones be morepact and solid, his arms and fingers noticeably longer.

    "I don''t know if this physique will be helpful for martial arts in the future."

    Anyway, he felt more confident about catchingrge game within six days.

    "Brother Shi, it''s time to eat."

    The gentle voice brought Chen Sansi back to his senses.

    After hastily eating breakfast, he took all the remaining salted duck eggs in the house, along with half a bag of sorghum.

    "What are you up to?"

    Gu Xin was puzzled.

    The salted duck eggs were understandable, but raw sorghum couldn''t be eaten. What was he taking it to the mountain for?

    "Gifts."

    Chen Sansi answered sinctly and was about to leave.

    "Brother Shi, be careful these days."

    Gu Xin looked worried, "Yesterday when I was on my way back, I saw Mr. Qin loitering near our house again. I''m scared¡­"

    "I know."

    Chen Sansi''s tone was firm, "Don''t worry, my dear, he can''t hurt you."

    My dear?

    Gu Xin''s cheeks flushed slightly.

    Having Brother Shi say that, she indeed felt much less afraid.

 Chapter 7 Hunting Wild Boars

    Second Layer Mountain was essentially a ce where old hunters grouped together to go.

    One reason was the danger; they had each other''s backs.

    Also, if they actually caught something as big as several hundred pounds, they would need help to carry it down.

    Over time, this naturally formed a smallmunity.

    To join this group, it was best to have someone familiar show you the way.

    Otherwise, if someone decided to take your belongings, deep in the dense woods, you might not even find the body.

    "You''re going to Second Layer Mountain?"

    Zhao Qiao was somewhat surprised, "Little Stony, how long have you been hunting?"

    "Isn''t it that my family hasn''t paid the taxes for this year yet?"

    Chen Sansi honestly said, "Other than Second Layer Mountain, where else can I gather this amount of silver in such a short time?"

    "Ah~"

    Hearing this, Zhao Qiao couldn''t help but sigh.

    These days, the government was as fierce as a tiger.

    He hesitated for a moment, "Alright, but I have to say it upfront, if youe back empty-handed, you can''t me me."

    "That''s natural, Uncle Zhao, rest assured."

    Chen Sansi nodded.

    On the way up the mountain, Zhao Qiao began to exin the precautions, "It''s true that you can get goods in the deep mountains, but it''s alsomon for people to lose their lives; if you encounter Big Worm or ck Bear, you''d better run quickly.

    "And the most important point¡ª''avoid those in brocade clothes.''

    "Avoid those in brocade clothes?" Chen Sansi queried.

    "Yes."

    Zhao Qiao exined in a grave voice, "Those whoe to the mountain in brocade clothes to hunt are either martial masters from the Martial Arts Hall or children of the wealthy; we can''t afford to offend them.

    "There were instances in the past where hunters fought with nobles over game, leading to direct loss of life.

    "Soter on, our hunters'' activity area was limited to the south side of Second Layer Mountain, and few dared to go to the north side anymore. Just remember that.

    "Finally, if you catch something too big to carry by yourself, shoot a whistle arrow into the sky. Nearby hunters who are empty-handed wille over to help carry it down the mountain, but of course, you have to pay them depending on the situation."

    "That''s about all I have to say; be careful in everything, even vigers might try to trick you."

    He took out a Bone Head Arrow from the Arrow Bag and handed it over.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The Bone Head Arrow, like the whistle arrow, belongs to the group of signaling arrows, but its head isn''t made of metal; it''s made of wood with hollows, making a loud noise when fired, having no lethal power.

    "Thank you, Uncle Zhao."

    Chen Sansi was very sincere.

    A few salted duck eggs in exchange for this information was absolutely worth it.

    During the conversation, the two of them had already arrived at the foot of Second Layer Mountain.

    To avoidpeting for game, hunters generally operated independently, unless they agreed to group hunt fierce beasts.

    Second Layer Mountain was deep and dense.

    The moment Chen Sansi stepped into the woods, he spotted many animal feces hidden in the soil, and footprints under the bushes within a ten-meter radius.

    "Some hunting dogs can''t even achieve what I do!"

    "I might not have a hunting dog, but I am better than a hunting dog!"

    "And this is just the entry level!"

    He went all out, carrying bows and arrows, shuttling through the jungle, not missing the slightest movement.

    Second Layer Mountain had plenty of game, but mostly small creatures like rabbits and wild chickens;rge animals were simrly hard to find.

    Moreover, due to consecutive years of poor harvests and excessive hunting, the hunters of Second Layer Mountain were barely making ends meet, and it wasmon to return empty-handed.

    ording to Uncle Zhao, the real abundance of game was on the north side of the mountain, but that was the hunting ground of upper-ss people, and the poor, without martial arts skills, dared not venture there.

    "Is even hunting oppressed?"

    Chen Sansi didn''t rush to hunt.

    At his current level, he could hunt small creatures like rabbits at any time; it was better to look for something bigger, even a roe deer would do.

    His focus was at full throttle.

    Chen Sansi not only didn''t feel tired, but he also felt the world bing clearer and clearer in his eyes, as if he was about to enter another realm.

    Indeed, after breaking through the critical point, the panel surfaced like ripples on water.

    [Tracking Concealment (Mastery)]

    [Progress: 0/500]

    [Utility: Insight Shocking, Light as a Feather]

    After experiencing a mysterious sensation, Chen Sansi felt his senses were elevated to a new level.

    Now, he could even clearly observe animal fur on the ground!

    Some wild animals intentionally hide their droppings.

    But they can''t conceal the fur that falls off unintentionally!

    Moreover, his enhanced perception was not only useful for hunting but also essential for archery, which requires excellent eyesight.

    The palm-sized target center, eighty meters away, was merely a ck dot, but if he could see even tinier things, naturally, his shooting uracy improved.

    All these skillsplemented each other.

    "Combining this with the ''failing to forget after ncing once'' from reading, I feel like I''ve opened a Sherlock Holmes'' memory pce, but it''s specially tailored for hunting."

    Chen Sansi bent down and picked up a ck hair from the grass beneath his feet.

    ''This hair is half as long as a finger, fairly stiff, and not yet dposed, indicating its owner was here not long ago.''

    Every few steps, he found simr hairs, and after about a hundred steps, clear footprints began to appear.

    He started following the trail.

    The rugged,plicated mountain trail was exceptionally easy for Chen Sansi to navigate; his speed was surprisingly fast, and he hardly made any noise¡ªan embodiment of being Light as a Feather.

    ''I wonder if this counts as Qinggong.''

    ''There''s movement!''

    He slowed his steps outside a bamboo grove, approaching the source of the sound within.

    He suddenly came upon a strong, ck wild boar.

    In tow were five piglets; it was searching for food in the mud at the forefront, with the piglets grunting cheerfully behind, a family of pigs happily unaware of the looming danger.

    "Jackpot!"

    "This sow weighs at least three hundred pounds, and the piglets are even more valuable!"

    Chen Sansi visualized waving silver coins calling him, he repressed his excitement and crept as close to the wild boar as possible.

    Though his shots were long-ranged, naturally, the closer he was, the more powerful they were, especially against the tough skin and flesh of a wild boar; too far, and it''s hard to be lethal.

    Only when about twenty steps away from the wild boar did Chen Sansi stop on an upward slope.

    He quietly took the longbow from his back and notched a freshly made double-ded barbed Wolf Teeth Arrow.

    The Four-Force Bow now felt light as a feather in his hands, almost effortless to fully draw, feeling like he might even snap it with a bit more force.

    The bowstring was released, and the arrow flew instantly!

    "Whiz¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª"

    Since it was a back ambush, the arrow directly prated the buttocks of the wild boar, causing a sharp scream, and a flock of birds flew away in panic.

    Perhaps because the bow was too light, the arrowhead prated only about three inches into the flesh.

    Instead of running away, the wild boar entered a frenzied state, ignoring the blood flowing nonstop from its body, and charged towards him with heavy grunts.

    Wild boars are also a kind of fierce beast.

    If an ordinary person was hit by a wild boar, they wouldn''t die but would have to lie down for half a month!

    Chen Sansi remained calm; the second arrow was already on its way.

    "Hoo-hoo-hoo¡ª¡ª"

    Another arrow added to the wild boar''s body, it visibly hesitated, but it didn''t stop, just continued charging at a slightly slowed pace.

    The third arrow followed closely, directly piercing its skull.

    This time, the wild boar finallyy straight down, dead.

    The five piglets, startled, scrambled in different directions.

    With theplicated terrain and the small size of the piglets, any ordinary hunter would likely miss at least two, but Chen Sansi''s archery skills were extraordinary.

    "Whiz, whiz, whiz, whiz¡ª¡ª"

    In just a few breaths, all five piglets were pierced by arrows, dead beyond doubt.

    The arrows in Chen Sansi''s Arrow Bag were just used up.

 Chapter 8 Apology

    "Over three hundred pounds of an adult pig, plus five piglets."

    "That should be enough for my taxes and leave me with a good amount of money!"

    "The only problem is, getting it back might be a bit of a hassle."

    This ce was deep in the mountains, dozens of miles from the county town. Even if one person could carry it, there was simply too much game to take all at once.

    Chen Sansi thought for a moment before shooting a Bone Head Arrow into the sky.

    "I''m far from the meeting spot."

    "I don''t even know where Uncle Zhao is, or if he can hear my signal."

    Sometimeter,

    footsteps sounded from outside the bamboo forest.

    However, it wasn''t Uncle Zhao Qiao who appeared, but a rough-looking man, muscr and with a scar on his face.

    When he saw the wild boars on the ground, he first looked envious, then incredulous at the sight of the young man''s kill, and finally his expression turned rather odd.

    "Brother!"

    The man strode over, sizing up the youthful, tender-looking man: "I''ve never seen you around."

    Chen Sansi introduced himself, "Uncle Zhao Qiao from Yanbian Vige brought me up the mountain, my name is Chen Sansi."

    "I''ve been around for three or four days and haven''t caught anything valuable."

    The man squinted his eyes: "It''s your first day up here, and you scored all this treasure."

    "Just luck."

    Chen Sansi bowed slightly: "Please help me take the game to the county town, brother. I will pay you ording to the vige rules."

    "Helping is no problem at all."

    While the man agreed verbally, his eyes darted around: "But it''s a long way from here to the county town, and about the price, well¡ª"

    He hadn''t had any yield for days and was nearly unable to cook at home. Now that he had stumbled upon this opportunity, he certainly intended to extort a few extra copper coins.

    While the man was pondering, the sudden sound of a bowstring like thunder burst by his ear.

    He looked up and saw Chen Sansi had, unbeknownst to him, already released an arrow.

    At a distance, a rabbit in full sprint fell to the ground.

    Seventy paces away!

    Plus, with the dense vegetation, the man hadn''t even noticed the rabbit.

    What was most striking, though, was that he noticed Chen Sansi had seemed to draw the bow using just one finger for power, the other merely supporting the arrow without any apparent effort!

    The strength of one finger easily drew the Recurve Bow, and with such uracy... Could he possibly handle a one-stone bow under the right conditions?!

    Since when did Po Yang County have such a young Divine Archer?

    No longer harboring ulterior motives, the man forced a bright smile: "Brother Sanshi, no, Brother Shi!

    "Don''t move, I''ll go pick it up. I''ll carry the game to town for free, let''s be friends!"

    He said, then hurried towards the direction of the rabbit.

    Chen Sansi stored his bow, shaking his head gently.

    With his keen perception that could even see the hairs clearly, how could he not realize this guy was scheming from the start? He had deliberately shown off his skills.

    If he didn''t want to be bullied, he needed to disy some strength!

    The man chopped two pieces of wood with a cleaver, and together with Chen Sansi, one in front and one behind, they carried the wild boar down the mountain.

    The man introduced himself, "My name is Wu Da, I live in the vige next to yours, I''m sixteen this year, please take me under your wing in the future, Brother Shi."

    "?"

    Chen Sansi looked at the scar-faced man smiling at him, temporarily at a loss for words.

    This guy is sixteen?!

    "Wild boar!"

    "Brother Shi nailed a wild boar!"

    "..."

    They had just reached Yanbian Vige''s entrance when the vigers burst into an uproar.

    A three-hundred-pound wild boar isn''t umon, but typically it requires the cooperation of two or three people!

    For one person to handle an entireir of wild boars was definitely top-tier hunting.

    Not to mention, for the vigers, Chen Sansi was a schr who had turned to hunting to survive.

    Word spread fast, and it did not take an hour before he became well-known in the neighboring viges.

    ...

    At Eight Treasures Restaurant.

    "The sow is three hundred and twenty pounds, eighteen copper coins per pound.

    "The piglets, twenty copper coins per pound, all together sixty pounds and two taels.

    "The total is 6964 copper coins. I''ll make an executive decision on behalf of the boss and round it up to seven taels of silver for you, and remember, if you catch fresh game in the future, don''t go selling it to anyone else, little Stone!"

    Boss Liu Hongda waved his hand grandly, throwing over a pouch of money.

    Typically, one thousand copper coins are equivalent to one tael of silver, but silver is a harder currency, not always easily exchangeable, and the exchange rates often fluctuate.

    Giving silver directly was obviously a courtesy.

    "Thank you, Uncle Liu."

    Chen Sansi took the money pouch, feeling its significant weight.

    Seven taels of silver!

    Not only was he set for his taxes, but he also had enough to buy winter clothes.

    "Youd are truly impressive."

    Boss Liu Hongda marveled, "At this rate, it won''t be long before you can move to the city. If you could learn a bit of martial arts, that would really be making something of yourself."

    "Speaking of martial arts halls, does Uncle Liu have any rmendations?"

    Now that Chen Sansi had solved his immediate problems, it was naturally time to consider learning martial arts.

    "The most famous ones in Po Yang County are Tianyuan, Tai Lei, Yun He, and Zhao Martial Arts Halls, but they only recruit apprentices during specific periods each year, and it''s already toote for this year.

    "Honestly, for usmoners, there''s no need to aim for the top halls. Learning just a few moves to bluff people is usually good enough.

    "But if you''re set on a major hall, you might ask Shunzi."

    "Shunzi?" Chen Sansi was a bit perplexed.

    "That kid has been frequently treating Martial Arts Academy Disciples to meals recently, just over there across the street, and look, there hees now."

    Boss Liu Hongda pointed behind him.

    Across from Eight Treasures Restaurant, there was a rtively modest hall.

    Chen Sansi turned around and saw Zhang Shun stepping out of a diner with two young men in white robes.

    "Brother Shi?"

    Upon seeing Chen Sansi, Zhang Shun immediately ran over, his face apologetic, "Bro, I''ve been meaning to see you these past few days to talk aboutst time..."

    Chen Sansi cut him off, "Shunzi, don''t worry about me, I''ve gathered enough money."

    "Your Brother Shi just bagged a wholeir of wild boars today and earned seven taels of silver from me."

    Boss Liu Hongda spoke up for him.

    "Really?! Bro, you''re amazing. I wonder how long I''d have to fish to earn seven taels of silver!"

    Shunzi eximed in admiration, his envy pure and untainted by any other emotions.

    "By the way, this is for you."

    Chen Sansi took out three pieces of broken silver, ready to pay off the silver both principal and interest.

    "Brother, I can''t take this, I wasn''t able to help youst time."

    "That''s a separate matter, your dad also needs money for his leg treatment."

    After some back and forth, Chen Sansi finally managed to stuff the silver into the other''s pocket and changed the subject, "Are you treating the Martial Arts Academy disciples to a meal?"

    "Yes."

    Zhang Shun lowered his voice, "I missed the Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy''s recruitment period, so I thought I''d try something to see if they could ept one more disciple."

    He just happened to meet two disciples outside the academy, and they offered to put in a good word for him, which is why he invited them to dine and build rtionships.

    This was already the third meal.

    Even though the small restaurant wasn''t as extravagant as the Eight Treasures Restaurant, it still cost quite a bit of money.

    "I see."

    Chen Sansi looked across the street at the two Martial Arts Academy disciples.

    One was picking his teeth and the other was patting his round belly and burping, seemingly impatient, urging, "Little Shun, what are you doing? Come on, weren''t we going to enjoy some drinks? The senior brother I introduced you to is highly regarded by our master, you get what I mean, right?"

    "Don''t be mad, brothers, I''ming right now!"

    Zhang Shun hurriedly said goodbye.

    Chen Sansi watched them walk away, feeling that the gazes of those two Academy disciples seemed unreliable.

    "I should remind Shun to be carefulter."

    He didn''t linger any longer and hurried off to the government office, to pay the tax of three taels of silver.

    Seeing the tax officer check off his name in the register, he finally felt a massive weight lift from his shoulders.

    "Only Qin Xiong left..."

    "I wonder if he will try to cause trouble in other ways."

    "I need to hurry home, or else Sister Lan will start to worry again."

    Chen Sansi rushed back home.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    At the home''s entrance, Gu Xin was caught up chatting with a few women, who were all admiring how capable her man was.

    How he could read, earn money, and was handsome too.

    Ultimately, when a man earns money, even his shorings can be turned into advantages.

    "Xin Lan, you must hurry to give your Brother Shi a child!"

    "Don''t worry about that, with Xin Lan''s big hips, she''ll definitely be able to have a son."

    "..."

    The women kept bantering, making Sister Lan''s cheeks turn bright red.

    "Xin Lan, look, your man is back."

    "Brother Shi!"

    With no interest in small talk, Gu Xin hurried over to greet him.

    "We''re eating rabbit tonight."

    Chen Sansi said smiling, holding out an unsold rabbit.

    Gu Xin didn''t even nce at the rabbit, her hands kept touching here and there: "How are you, Brother Shi? Are you hurt? I heard that wild boars are really fierce!"

    Chen Sansi was stunned for a moment, "No worries, I''m fine."

    "Brother Shi, please don''t provoke such frightening things next time!"

    After confirming that her man was unharmed, Gu Xin finally rxed and helped him unload his things, "Must be hungry, I''ll go cook."

    Chen Sansi watched Sister Lan''s busy figure and suddenly felt a profound sense of belonging.

    He had a home in this world after all.

    ...

    Soon, the aroma of food from the kitchen wafted around.

    It stirred such a craving in Chen Sansi''s stomach that it wouldn''t stop rumbling.

    "Knock knock knock¡ª"

    Just as they were about to eat, someone gently knocked on the door.

    "Who is it?"

    "It''s me! Qin Xiong!"

    Hearing this name, Gu Xin''s face turned white, and she clutched at Chen Sansi''s sleeve, indicating for him not to go outside to eat.

    "It''s fine, I''ll go and see."

    Chen Sansi tucked the kitchen knife behind his back and went out to greet the guest.

    He thought Qin Xiong, knowing he had paid his taxes, was either looking for a new problem or was ready to escte things, but it appeared to be theplete opposite.

    Qin Xiong was all smiles, holding a jug of the cheapest yellow wine, "Hahaha, little brother!"

    Chen Sansi furrowed his brow, "What''s this?"

    "Little bro, I am here to apologize!"

    While speaking, Qin Xiong casually patted Chen Sansi''s shoulder, secretly applying force, only to find that his adversary didn''t budge.

    Damn it!

    Where did this kid get such strength?

    He had juste home today and heard that the schr named Chen had single-handedly killed a wild boar.

    Now it''s autumn, and wild boars with piglets are extremely aggressive, and there had been instances of hunters being devoured by them.

    Handling a wild boar solo is definitely no easy feat.

    Yet this fellow is clearly just a useless schr!

    Could it be he''s naturally strong but took the wrong path, wasting his potential?

    Either way, Qin Xiong decided to give up on Gu Xin.

    He had been thriving in the surrounding ten viges for years, raising his brother alone and sending him to the best Martial Arts Hall, not just because he acted rashly on the surface.

    Who to offend and who not to mess with, he knew very well.

    If he really offended a formidable hunter, he should not venture into the mountains for the rest of his life.

    Otherwise, he might just receive a deadly arrow to his back.

    As for women, there are plenty more to choose from!

    If Chen Sansi is not one to be easily bullied, there are plenty of others who are.

    "Little brother! There has been some misunderstanding between us, let''s clear it up in front of the neighbors, how about that?"

    Qin Xiong deliberately raised his voice, attracting the neighbors who were cooking at home toe out and watch.

    Just as Qin Xiong thought Chen Sansi didn''t know better, finally, he heard the satisfactory response.

    "You jest, Brother Qin."

    Chen Sansi showed a cordial smile, "I''ve always been one not to hold a grudge, moreover, there''s no real ''enmity'' between us."

    "Being a schr truly suits you, Brother, generous indeed."

    Content, Qin Xiong ced down the jug of wine, "I won''t disturb you any longer."

    "Good, Brother Qin, take care."

    After closing the door, Chen Sansi looked at the recurve bow hanging on the wall.

    Clear the ount?

    When I was down and out, he took advantage and almost ruined my family; now that I''m not easy to bully, he wants to dismiss it lightly?

    Where on earth is it so easy!

 Chapter 9 Hunter

    At the dinner table.

    Sister Lan, ted by the joyful events, unprecedentedly helped herself to two chopsticks of rabbit meat.

    Paying all the taxes due and ridding themselves of the local tyrant, anyone would have been happy.

    "Brother Shi."

    She looked admiringly at her man, "That Mr. Qin must have heard of your abilities and didn''t dare to mess with us anymore; you are truly incredible."

    Being able to shoot even a wild boar, no wonder she always thought Brother Shi was exceptionally strong!

    After dinner, Gu Xin sat beside the bed waiting as usual; but unusually, he wasteing into the room.

    It was only when she lifted the curtain that she saw Chen Sansi sitting under the candlelight, intently flipping through a book.

    "Aren''t you going to rest early today?"

    Gu Xin was somewhat disappointed, but she quietly did not disturb him and went to sleep first.

    [Skill: Reading (entry-level)]

    [Progress: (120/300)]

    [Utility: Spirit refreshed, photographic memory]

    Chen Sansi gently closed the book, and after confirming that Sister Lan was soundly asleep, he tucked a kitchen knife at his waist, slung the longbow over his shoulder, and tiptoed out of the house, blending into the night.

    ¡­

    The brothel.

    "Sir, why not stay here for the night? Why bother going back?"

    "Scram scram scram, I still have things to take care of!"

    Qin Xiong pushed away the courtesan who was holding him back and staggered out of the brothel.

    The cost for overnighting was triple; he wasn''t foolish.

    The money at home shouldn''t be wasted, and he needed to save it as a gift for his younger brother.

    Since he was young, he had lost his parents and had raised his younger brother by selling pancakes. Once he made a name for himself, he managed to save enough money to send his younger brother to the best Martial Arts Academy in Po Yang County.

    But practicing martial arts was indeed very expensive.

    The enrollment fee, master''s tribute, and medical expenses were just the beginning. To receive the true teachings was yet another significant expense.

    The old folks at the county Martial Arts Hall would generally pass on their skills only to their own sons or direct disciples; outsiders couldn''t learn the real deal.

    His younger brother was no exception.

    He had been practicing martial arts for over three years and still couldn''t learn theplete cultivation techniques.

    Fortunately, his brother was close to the Young Master; that young man was a debauchee who favored beautiful women. Perhaps by sending some beautiful women his way, there might be a chance to acquire the true teachings.

    "Speaking of which, that Ms. Gu is really beautiful!"

    "Her looks, they just don''t seem like those of a vige girl."

    "What a pity, such a pity!"

    Thinking about this, Qin Xiong felt aggrieved.

    He actually had to apologize to someone with the surname Chen.

    But this was only temporary.

    Once his younger brother could spare the time, what was a hunter considered anyway?

    No matter how skilled, could a hunter be more formidable than a martial artist?

    Given the chance, he could have his brother deal with Mr. Chen in the mountains; and even keep his family''s youngdy for his own enjoyment!

    "Hahaha!"

    Thinking of the youngdy''s buttocks, irresistibly round and plump, Qin Xiongughed out loud.

    "Huh¡ª"

    A gust of cold wind swept by, sobering him significantly.

    Looking around, he realized that he had unwittingly walked out of the town, surrounded by pitch darkness, with only the asional crow caw breaking the deep silence of the night.

    "Heh, my courage seems to be shrinking!"

    For some reason, today Qin Xiong felt a vague sense of unease, as if someone was following him.

    He scoffed at himself and was just about to head home when suddenly another gust of wind came from behind.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    This gust was very sharp and precise, directly hitting the back of his head with a chilling iciness.

    This "wind" prated through the back of his skull and exited through the top, as if a horn was sprouting from his forehead.

    Qin Xiong fell straight down, never stirring again.

    ¡­

    "Not satisfying at all!"

    Chen Sansi emerged from the distant woods and approached to examine the body.

    When people practiced martial arts, they fought with swords and hand-to-handbat.

    He had just pulled the bowstring from afar, and everything was over, making even the carried kitchen knife redundant. The process was too quick, leaving Mr. Qin dying too swiftly.

    "Oh well, who makes me kind-hearted."

    Chen Sansi found about three fragments of silver on the body.

    "Just this little?"

    "This scoundrel has been guing the vige, surely making at least a few dozen silver pieces a year, where has the money gone?"

    "Is practicing martial arts that expensive for his brother?"

    After pocketing the silver, he began to ponder how to dispose of the body.

    There were arrow wounds on the body; it definitely couldn''t be left here.

    Hunters were few and far between within tens of miles.

    Cutting off the head separately would cover him in blood, making it even more difficult to handle.

    "Just throw it in the mountains!"

    Chen Sansi hoisted the body.

    With the "Light as a Feather" skill, carrying a corpse did not slow him down at all.

    In just two hours, he arrived at Second Layer Mountain, threw the body in a secluded grove, and returned home to Yanbian Vige before dawn.

    Lying down next to the sleeping Sister Lan, Chen Sansi took a long breath.

    "I guess I''ve removed a menace for my fellow vigers!"

    "Just not sure if his brother wille looking for me."

    "I need to start practicing martial arts soon!"

    He had no regrets.

    With Qin Xiong''s character, apologizing was only temporary, his brother, gaining influence, would definitely seek doublepensation in the future.

    Better to strike first rather than live in anxiety.

    ...

    The next morning, at dawn, the rooster crowed.

    Chen Sansi, as always, got up early to practice archery.

    After mastering archery, the speed of improvement drastically dropped.

    Because the bow was too light.

    He could now pull a one-stone bow; the Four-Force Bow waspletely ineffective as a training tool.

    "Heavy bows are not easy toe by."

    "Even the Martial Arts Hall wouldn''t dare keep them privately, or it would be seen as plotting rebellion."

    "Besides needing a heavy bow, it''s time to schedule martial arts training."

    "..."

    Chen Sansi silently calcted his next steps in his mind, while on the other hand, Xin Lan called him to breakfast.

    "ng ng ng¡ª"

    He sat down absentmindedly, just picking up a cornbread, when suddenly the vige was filled with the sound of gongs and shouting.

    The government!

    Chen Sansi''s heart skipped a beat, but he quickly calmed down.

    "It can''t be because of Qin Xiong''s affair; he only diedst night."

    "He''s not worth such a big fuss; there must be something else."

    Indeed.

    The people from the county government''s Patrol Office called everyone out and announced a major event.

    An assassin from the barbarian tribes had infiltrated Po Yang County and murdered the Po Yang County Magistrate.

    The whole vige was in an uproar.

    The government''s people were here to search for the assassin''s whereabouts.

    After gathering all the vigers together, the Patrol Office began searching every house, and left grudgingly after half a day.

    "The County Magistrate has been killed."

    Xin Lan whispered, "I remember this County Magistrate had been transferred here less than two years ago. Seems like being an official isn''t easy."

    "Hmm."

    Chen Sansi watched the departing constables, feeling something was odd.

    Why would a barbarian warrior kill the County Magistrate?

    The forces guarding the border are from the garrison, not the county government. If they wanted to attack, they should target the skilled soldiers.

    "Forget it."

    "It''s none of my business."

    Chen Sansi shook his head,menting that the world was bing increasingly chaotic, which spurred him even more to earn money.

    With money, he could enhance his personal strength and protect himself in these turbulent times.

    After hastily filling his stomach, he took his bow and arrows and went hunting in the mountains.

 Chapter 10 Difficulties in Martial Arts Practice

    No one caused trouble, and Chen Sansi was living a peaceful life.

    For five consecutive days, his life was a simple cycle: hunting in the mountains, selling game at the restaurant, and then going home to sleep.

    As for Qin Xiong...

    His body was gnawed to nothing but bones by wolves the day after he died, and Chen even took the opportunity to shoot a few of them.

    "A wild rabbit of six pounds, two pheasants weighing five pounds and three ounces, plus a fifty-pound roe deer..."

    Eight Treasures Restaurant.

    Chen Sansi, like a mission turn-in point in a game, habitually came here to sell game.

    Shopkeeper Liu Hongda clicked his abacus: "Exactly one tael of silver, keep it up!"

    A single tael of silver, if not for the expensive prices due to chaos and war, would be enough to sustain an ordinary family for a month.

    But he appeared very calm, considering he had recently earned a sum of seven taels at one time.

    Unfortunately, wild boars were not that easy to find.

    "If only I could go to North Mountain!"

    "Uncle Zhao and the others said that in the real deep mountains there''s a chance to find ''Exotic Beasts'', one could sell for upwards of ten taels or even an astronomical price!"

    "It''s a pity, without the backing of a powerful force..."

    North of Second Layer Mountain waspletely dominated by martial artists; if a country hunter dared to venture there, they might be beaten and robbed of their game at best, or even lose their lives at worst¡ªit was very oppressive!

    "I still need to inquire about joining a Martial Arts Hall."

    Thinking so, Chen Sansi didn''t rush to leave.

    After waiting about half an hour, he saw Zhang Shuning to sell fish, carrying his basket.

    When the topic of Martial Arts Halls came up, Shun began to curse: "Brother, don''t even bring it up! Those two had no intention of helping me, they just freeloaded food and drink, consuming a whole two taels of my silver, however..."

    He lowered his voice: "I didn''t let them off cheap either. Yesterday, with a trap, I sshed them both with golden juice, it was at least a bit satisfying!"

    "Do they know it was you who did it?"

    Chen Sansi was a bit worried.

    In recent times,muting back and forth to the county town, he had also encountered many Martial Arts Academy Disciples who were arrogant and unreasonable, even those who beat up ordinary people on the street without cause.

    Shun''s way of getting back at them might bring trouble upon himself.

    In some matters, you either don''t do them at all or you must be ruthless in execution.

    "Don''t worry, they didn''t see me."

    Zhang Shun changed the subject: "By the way, Brother, aren''t you also nning to learn Martial Arts? Got any ns?"

    Chen Sansi shook his head: "What about you?"

    "Sigh, I''m worried too."

    Zhang Shunmented: "Apart from the Four Great Martial Arts Schools, the rest of the Martial Arts Halls in the county town are not that cheaper either, and the worst part is having to do strenuousbor for two years before you even start learning the real skills. Without three or five years, it''s impossible to learn anything substantial.

    "But what can we do? I''m going to try out at a Martial Arts Hall with a better reputation after all."

    It was consistent with what Chen Sansi had learned.

    In this world, it''s not easy to change one''s fate through schrship, and it''s even harder through Martial Arts.

    In a nutshell, ordinary folks, don''t expect to live a good life!

    Working his hands to the bone in a lousy Martial Arts Hall for three to five years was out of the question.

    Apart from the Martial Arts Halls, there was actually another ce to learn Martial Arts...

    The garrison!

    But as a military household, he would have to go to battle and face the enemy, especially now with the current state of turmoil and war.

    Let''s go ask around first.

    After saying goodbye to Shun, Chen Sansi went to the market to seek out Old Xu.

    When Old Xu heard his question, he couldn''t help but chuckle: "How much silver does it take to be a military household?

    "Little Stone, have you lost your mind? You don''t need a single coin to be a military household; instead, they''d have to pay you!

    "The garrison does want to recruit people, but how many are willing to go?"

    The Great Sheng Dynasty had a history of over three hundred and fifty years.

    After the Grand Ancestor founded the nation, he implemented the garrison andmandery system.

    In essence, it was a system of military colony farming.

    Seven parts farming, three parts military readiness.

    At the beginning of the dynasty, Great Sheng had as many as three million military households, and they could be self-sufficient.

    The Grand Ancestor once said, "The soldiers of Great Sheng need not consume a single grain of rice from the people.".

    "Such an astonishing coincidence?"

    Chen Sansi couldn''t help but recall a figure from his past life who started his empire with nothing but a bowl and carved out his own territory through sheer ruthlessness.

    Like the Great Ming, the garrison system of Great Sheng deteriorated over time and was on the verge of copse.

    Fifty years ago, the Chief Minister had implemented reforms, which just barely extended the life of the regime until now.

    But listening to Old Xu''s tone, it seemed that the reforms were not very thorough, only managing to maintain appearances while the reality was still on the verge of copse.

    "Three hundred and fifty years is actually quite a feat."

    "After all, the Great Ming onlysted for less than three hundred years."

    "Why could the Great Sheng Dynasty oust the Great Ming by seventy years, was it because there were no foreign-educated Emperors?"

    "Or was it because this world had martial artists who relied on military force to suppress and extend their lifespan?"

    "..."

    Old Xu said, "Little Shanshi, do you want to practice martial arts?"

    Chen Sansi nodded in agreement.

    "If you just want to strengthen your body, the Martial Arts Halls in Po Yang County town can satisfy you, but if you truly want to achieve mastery in martial arts, they are not enough.

    "Either join a major school at the state level;

    "Or enlist in the military."

    "But in all thend under heaven, is there a school bigger and stronger than the court?"

    Old Xu said earnestly, "Child, think it over carefully, if you really want to enlist, your uncle can get you in.

    "But why join the military in these chaotic times?

    "I''m speaking the sincere truth as an old man, just living a stable life as amoner is quite good.

    "Like that silly son of mine, always dreaming of making a name for himself, not realizing if he has the fate for it, sigh~"

    "Thank you for the advice, uncle."

    Chen Sansi bowed his hands in thanks and took his leave.

    This matter, indeed, required serious thought.

    His mind heavy with thoughts, he walked home.

    Before he even reached the entrance of the vige, he heard loud and noisy argumentsing from inside.

    A young man in a dark cyan robe with a sword at his waist was leading four or five people in the vige, stopping everyone they met and asking questions, as if they were looking for someone.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    With Chen Sansi''s hearing, he could make out the conversation from a distance, but he didn''t hide, walking openly past them and, as expected, was stopped.

    "Brother, please wait."

    The leading young man, dignified and polite in his speech, but his gaze bearing a hint of disdain, asked, "Have you seen my elder brother Qin Xiong?"

    "Brother Qin?"

    Chen Sansi responded naturally, "I saw him a few days ago, what about him?"

    Qin Feng said coldly, "Five days ago, my elder brother disappeared without a trace, and there has been no word of him since."

    "Disappeared? Impossible!"

    Chen Sansi was quite surprised, "Brother Qin was fine, how could he disappear?"

    Qin Feng shook his head, "If there is any news, please inform us."

    "Hiss..."

    Chen Sansi stroked his chin, "A few days ago, barbarians infiltrated Po Yang County and killed the County Magistrate, I wonder if it has anything to do with this?"

    Qin Feng paid him no further attention and turned to question the next person.

    ''I wonder how well this younger brother of Qin Xiong has learned martial arts.''

    ''The few disciples around him are calling him ''Senior Brother''; seems like he holds a high status.''

    ''If I attacked by surprise, could I kill him with one arrow?''

    ''I really need to learn martial arts!''

    As Chen Sansi pushed open the door to his home, he did not smell the familiar fragrance of cooking.

    "Sister Lan hasn''te back yet?"

    "That''s not right."

    It wasn''t until half an hourter that hurried footsteps sounded outside the door.

    "Brother Shi!"

    "What''s happened?" Chen Sansi asked.

    "Tax officials, collecting taxes..."

    Gu Xin leaned against the door frame, panting for breath, barely able to speak.

    Chen Sansi remembered that today was thest deadline for tax payment.

    In previous years at this time, the tax officials would bring government office workers to tally up, and those who couldn''t pay the taxes would be taken away for hardbor.

    "Don''t panic, speak slowly."

    Gu Xin said haltingly, "Aunt Li... Brother Shi, you should go and see, Aunt Li''s family can''t pay the taxes and are about to be taken away!"

 Chapter 11 Tranquility Is a Luxury

    "I ask you onest time, will you pay the tax or not?!"

    The tax collector squinted his eyes, looking impatiently at the family of three before him.

    Zhang Shun said with righteous indignation, "Sir, our family paid the autumn tax ten days ago!"

    The tax collector held up the register in his hand, snorted coldly, "If you paid, then why isn''t your family''s name written here?"

    "Impossible!"

    Zhang Shun shouted, "I saw with my own eyes as you wrote it, you''re trying to deliberately collect the tax from my family twice!"

    "ndering!"

    The tax collector pped his whip down, knocking the young man to the ground, "Why don''t I collect double from other families but only from yours?!"

    A bloody gash appeared instantly on Zhang Shun''s face.

    He gritted his teeth, attempting to argue, but Aunt Li hastily stopped him, putting on a smile, "Shun, keep your mouth shut, if the official says we didn''t pay, then we didn''t pay."

    The child was young and unaware of the tax collector''s ferocity.

    There''s a saying, "Fear not the official, but the one who enforces," don''t look at the tax collector as just a minor official, sometimes he''s more terrifying than the County Magistrate!

    "Sir, please wait, I''ll go back home and get the money to make up for it!"

    Aunt Li had no idea when they had offended the tax collector, nning to deal with the current problem before anything else.

    She hurriedly went to retrieve the money.

    Soon after, a desperate scream echoed from the house.

    "Oh heavens!"

    "Where''s the money¡ª¡ª"

    The thirteen taels of silver hidden under their water jar had vanished without a trace!

    Hearing themotion, Mr. Zhang with ame leg stumbled in, and after seeing the empty hiding spot, he fell to the ground, "Thief, there''s been a thief!"

    The tax collector lost his patience, whipping Mr. Zhang twice in the back, "Are you ying me for a fool here?!"

    "Sir!"

    Mr. Zhang grimaced in pain, "The silver was right here, there were thirteen taels, thirteen taels!"

    The tax collector scoffed, "I could also say I have three-thousand taels of gold in my house, if you have no money, just confess your crime honestly!"

    "Father¡ª¡ª"

    Zhang Shun, seeing his father beaten, rushed forward in a panic, only to be knocked down by a whip, his face covered in fresh blood.

    Hey on the ground, not understanding what was happening.

    Only when he saw two figures in white robes in the crowd giving him a triumphant smile did he have a sudden realization.

    "You, it was you!"

    Zhang Shun staggered to his feet and charged at the two disciples, "Give me back my silver!"

    "Go to hell!"

    The slightly overweight disciple kicked the young man down, "Where''s the proof?!"

    Zhang Shun could no longer contain his anger, "You''re in cahoots with the tax collector!"

    "ndering."

    Hearing this, the tax collector raised his hand and delivered several more whipshes, beating the young man until his skin was torn and flesh exposed.

    "Damn troublemaker!

    "Like a rabid dog, barking at everyone, take him away!

    "The old fool to Cangzhou to repair the city wall, the youngster to Hezhou to repair the riverbank!"

    The onlooking vigers were silent as cicadas in cold weather.

    Seeing this, almost everyone understood what was happening, but nobody dared to say anything.

    Officials, martial artists, neither were people ordinary folks dared to offend.

    If the lords wanted you dead, you had to die.

    Zhang Shun was covered in blood and dirt, screaming in extreme frustration.

    He had toiled from dawn to dusk catching fish, saving up for four whole years to learn a few moves, just to have an easier life in the future, how did ite to this?

    Was it because he hadn''t worked hard enough?

    "Shun!"

    A powerful voice rang out.

    Chen Shanshi squeezed through the crowd.

    He saw the two Martial Arts Academy disciples and quickly guessed most of the story.

    Shun''s act of sshing the golden liquid had offended them, so they sought revenge by bribing the tax collector to tax them twice and then stealing the silver, aiming to directly cause the death of Shun''s family.

    Thinking it over, Chen Shanshi himself felt a chill.

    If Qin Xiong was willing to spend silver on bribes, he might very well have ended up with the same fate as them.

    He stepped forward, "Sir, may I pay the tax on their behalf?"

    "Brother Shi?"

    On hearing this, Zhang Shun felt so ashamed he couldn''t lift his head,

    He hadn''t insisted on taking out the silver to help Brother Shi before, how could he have the nerve to let Brother Shi help him now?

    Aunt Li and her husband felt the same shame, wishing they could just crawl into a hole and hide.

    Not just them, the watching vigers were also taken aback.

    "Hmm?"

    The tax collector''s face darkened, "Boy, are you sure you want to meddle in this affair?"

    "I dare not interfere with the official''s duties."

    Chen Sansi pulled the tax collector to a corner and pointed to Mr. Zhang, whispering, "But this cripple, how could he handle the work? He''s likely to die on the way, and that would just be a waste of food."

    The tax collector raised his eyebrows, "You mean to say¡­"

    Chen Sansi quietly slipped two taels of silver into his hand, "Sir, let''s forget about the cripple. As for Zhang Shun, he was disrespectful to you, so he deserves to do hardbor."

    That was all he could do.

    Clearly, the tax collector hade for Zhang Shun; Mr. Zhang was merely coteral damage.

    If Chen Sansi tried to intervene, it would not only fail to alter the oue but would also draw disaster upon himself.

    While he was speaking, the two Martial Arts Academy Disciples were staring at him intently from within the crowd.

    Better to save one if he could not save both.

    After all, Zhang Shun was young; there was at least a 20% chance he would survive the conscriptionbor.

    "Hehe, you sure know how to handle things, kid."

    The tax collector was amused.

    He took the money to teach Zhang Shun a lesson; the old man was essentially dispensable. Two extra taels of silver? Why not?

    Thinking this way, he discreetly epted the silver and announced, "The head of the Zhang family has made up his tax payment. Let him go, and take the young one away to be dispatched to Hezhou!"

    The decision was final.

    Those present mostly understood what had transpired.

    "Little Stone, that move was clever. He didn''t offend anyone and managed to save Old Zhang''s father."

    "This kid really values loyalty and friendship."

    "Such a pity he stopped his schooling; he would have made a good official if he''d pursued it."

    "Little Stone, I, Lai Zi, am truly convinced by you this time!"

    The vigers whispered among themselves, expressing their admiration for Chen Sansi''s actions.

    "Shunzi."

    Chen Sansi walked over to the thin and dark young man, gently patting him on the shoulder, "I did my best."

    "Brother!"

    Zhang Shun knelt down with a "thud," "You saved my life and now my father''s life. If I can make it back alive, I will be forever in your debt and work like an ox or horse to repay you!"

    He knocked his forehead to the ground three times, making a loud sound each time.

    "What the hell, putting on a grand y? Cut the crap and get moving!"

    The government office constables took Zhang Shun away, while the tax collector continued to tally the next household.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Aunt Li watching her son being taken away, copsed crying and lost consciousness, and Mr. Zhang sat numbly on the ground.

    Scenes like this, on thest day of the autumn tax collection, continued to y out.

    In Po Yang County, at least one-tenth of the male poption would be taken away.

    Most of them were farmers.

    After three hundred years ofnd consolidation, more than ny percent of thend in and around Po Yang County had be the property of the rich people and the Martial Arts Halls.

    The farmers were essentially tenants.

    Each year, they had to give half of their harvest as rent, and the remainder was taxed so heavily that they barely had enough to feed themselves.

    "Spare me, sir!"

    "For several years the harvest has been poor, and we are required to nt ten percent ''Spiritual Grain'' on every acre; we simply cannot survive this way."

    "Stop your nonsense; take them away, take them away!"

    "..."

    The Great Sheng Dynasty''s taxation was multifaceted and intricate.

    The most bizarre was the "Immortal Tax."

    Fifty years ago, in the twenty-first year of Longqing, Emperor Longqing had a dream. He imed to have met an Immortal in the dream, who gave him some seeds and proimed that these could grow Immortal Herbs. These Immortal Herbs, when offered to the Immortals, could ensure the empire''s prosperity for thousands of generations.

    Consequently, from the twenty-second year of Longqing, the Emperor decreed:

    All cultivatednd in the country must allocate ten percent to the nting of "Spiritual Grain," and those without cultivatednd were required to pay the equivalent in silver tax.

    The problem was, this "Spiritual Grain" was not some mysterious Immortal nt; it was inedible and even poisonous¡ªdeadly poisonous!

    Anyone who consumed it would die instantly!

    This effectively wastednd resources, making life even more difficult for the already struggling tenant farmers.

    Chen Sansi stood by the field ridge; within half an hour, he saw at least three or four households that had their men taken away, not even sparing men as old as seventy.

    Such suffering!

    The people were suffering!

    They were oppressed materially, which was bad enough; but the mental oppression was even heavier. Officials and Martial Arts Academy Disciples were considered masters; who would dare provoke them?

    Just like what happened earlier when Chen Sansi saved someone.

    The look in the eyes of the two Martial Arts Academy Disciples was something he would never forget for the rest of his life.

    It seemed like a single wrong word could lead to his undoing.

    The feeling was truly unbearable.

    Just because he was amoner, he was oppressed and exploited in every way, living his life with utmost caution.

    He suddenly made up his mind.

    Uncle Xu was wrong in what he said.

    In such an era, living peacefully was a luxury far beyond the reach of themon people.

    Only by fighting vigorously might they have the chance to turn their lives around!

    "Tomorrow, I will enlist in the army!"

 Chapter 12 Joining the Military

    "Brother Shi, are you really going to enlist in the army?"

    On the couch.

    Chen Sansi and Gu Xin snuggled together.

    "Is it because of what happened to Shunzi''s family?"

    "Yes, but not entirely."

    This was just one of the things that stimted Chen Sansi.

    He thought of Qin Feng.

    He had killed Qin Xiong, and although he left no evidence, who knew if his brother would suspect him? What if he used the same methods, how would he respond then?

    What''s more, what if the other party didn''t care about evidence and wanted to assassinate him anyway?

    He didn''t even know the various levels of prowess among martial artists; could he really protect his little household with just a bow?

    As for peace and stability?

    It ceased to exist the moment he was transported here and targeted by Qin Xiong.

    He would be persecuted sooner orter without taking the initiative.

    Enlisting in the army.

    Not only could he learn martial arts, but he would also have a chance to gain status.

    Moving up in every aspect was the only correct way to seek security in a chaotic world.

    Chen Sansi spoke softly, "What, you don''t want me to go?"

    "You are the head of the family, it''s up to you to decide what to do. I''m just afraid something might happen to you..."

    Gu Xin said she had no objections, but her tone was filled with hidden resentment, and her almond-shaped eyes became moist, clearly worried about being left alone.

    "Don''t scare me with your doom and gloom, or I''ll have to shut you up!"

    "No, don''t, mmm..."

    After two hours of intense discussion, the couple reached a consensus.

    Chen Sansi didn''t rush to sleep but picked up a book to read.

    Unknowingly, he became absorbed, and his proficiency steadily increased.

    Upon reaching a certain point, he had an epiphany, finding the words on the page simple and easy to understand. Things that he previously couldn''t grasp were now clear.

    [Skill: Reading (Expert)]

    [Progress: (0/800)]

    [Utility: Witty and Clever, Spirit Refreshed, Photographic Memory]

    Witty and Clever?

    Unlike archery, which directly strengthened the body, the changes brought by reading couldn''t be directly observed and required heartfelt experience.

    Chen Sansi''s most direct feeling was that he could easilyprehend what he read and retain it in his memory.

    "This should be very helpful for my martial arts practice."

    "But why has the requirement for advancement increased so much?"

    "Moreover, the improvements this book brings me are getting slower. It looks like I need to read different books."

    "It''s the same with archery."

    "Only the army has heavy bows."

    "Enlisting is imperative!"

    Closing the book, he too fell into a deep sleep.

    ...

    The next day.

    The sun rose as usual.

    Chen Sansi carried cured meat and food into the city.

    "Is the county under martialw?"

    From a distance, he saw armored soldiers at the city gate scrutinizing people entering and leaving. He inquired and learned that the barbarian martial artist who had attempted the assassination of the County Magistrate not only evaded capture but had returned and killed the master of the Yunhe Martial Arts Hall in the south of the city.

    "What a ruthless man!"

    Chen Sansi was filled with emotion.

    After a search and interrogation, he smoothly made his way to the market and found Old Xu.

    "Since you''ve made up your mind,e with me."

    Old Xu didn''t stand on ceremony; he took the items and led out a donkey cart, taking him out of the city: "I''ll take you to meet my son."

    The Dasheng military households were hereditary.

    If your father was part of a military household, then your family, generation after generation, would be military households.

    The father would serve until he was reced by his son, and even if there were no sons, other male rtives from the n would take over to maintain the number of troops.

    ording to Old Xu, the military household registrations were numbered, and during the height of prosperity it was rare to recruit outsiders; now they wanted to recruit people, but it was very difficult to find any.

    In the early stages of the nation''s founding, the treatment of military households was quite good: they were issued grain pay based on the number of people in the household, they could learn martial arts for free, and they were even given winter clothes. The living standards were generally above those of the middle-ss farmers.

    But gradually, everything started to change.

    The amount of militarynd somehow kept decreasing, and the soldiers''bor grew heavier and heavier.

    Old Xu said that when he first enlisted, the situation was at its worse.

    Many military households could barely afford to eat with just their grain pay and had to work as tenant farmers for nearby gentry or martial arts halls, and some nearly became house ves.

    With no other options, many military households simply ran away.

    For a time, in the entire Liangzhou Guard, the number of deserters reached a staggering half!

    It wasn''t until the Chief Minister Yan Liang took officeter on, spending ten years of hard work to save the situation, that he managed to keep the garrison system from copsing to this day, though thebat strength had be very weak.

    On paper, Liangzhou''s frontier had twenty-nine guards and over 160,000 military household soldiers, but if there were actually over 100,000, it would be considered good...

    The real main force guarding the Great Wall was under the Commander''s Eight Northern Camps, the elite troops that deterred the barbarian tribes.

    The Eight Camps had generous treatment but only admitted the elite; you had to make a name for yourself in the garrison before you got a chance to join the Northern Camps.

    As the two chatted, they unknowingly left Po Yang County city.

    West of Po Yang County city lies the Hutou Mountain Range, and to the north lies the frontier Great Wall.

    Between the county city and the frontier Great Wall was where the army resided.

    The garrisons stationed there were not the vast fields of tents seen on TV, but a number of viges built for living.

    If there''s no war, the soldiers would live ordinary lives, farming at sunrise and returning home at sunset.

    The military camps between the viges served asmand centers and training grounds.

    "Although Po Yang County is a frontier, due to the presence of the Longhu Mountain Range making troop movement difficult, it usually does not need to directly facerge forces of barbarian tribes; often it''s just small bands of cavalry, which is rtively safer," Old Xu exined.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Hmm¡ª"

    Old Xu stopped the donkey cart outside the military camp and signaled for the young man to follow him in.

    "You want to enlist?"

    Old Xu had a sonter in life; his son was not very old, probably not yet thirty, with a short beard and an air of vibrant energy.

    Learning that his father''s acquaintance''s son hade, he didn''t ask any further and helped with the registration into the rolls.

    "Military households are exempt from the grain tax every year."

    "If it''s just you, your monthly pay is four coins of silver, seven for those with a wife, and one tael of silver for families of five or more."

    "My dad says you can hunt?"

    Old Xu interjected: "Little Shi is quite exceptional; in the viges for dozens of miles outside Po Yang County, everyone knows he''s a skilled hunter!"

    Xu Bin nodded: "If you can''t be a military soldierter, you don''t need to go to the Array Soldier, you can be an archer, with a monthly pay of one tael and five coins of silver."

    They proceeded to the military camp for registration and reporting in the army record book, where he also received an old set of armor, a red hat, and a secret skill book.

    On the yellowed thread-bound book cover, it read "Basic Spear Technique for Soldiers" in six big characters.

    After receiving his items, from this moment on, Chen Sansi was a soldier of the Great Sheng Dynasty''s frontier.

    The full name of his unit was the "An Ding Prefecture''s Po Yang Left Army Thousand Households'' Frontier Defense Unit."

    "Lately, they''ve managed to enlist a few people," he said.

    "Tomorrow, you''ll formally report to the camp. The hundred-household officer will speak at the Martial Arts Arena and teach you martial arts skills."

    "Remember to prepare well. Your performance when you first enlist will determine your future in the army."

    "Once you be an Array Soldier, you''ll never have another chance to advance."

 Chapter 13 Military Soldier, Array Soldier

    "This basic skill book, take a good look at it when you get back, and it''s best if you can memorize it beforehand, it will help with the assessment," Xu Bin emphasized, then, ready to leave, he rested his hand on the knife at his waist.

    Old Man Xu chuckled, "Bin, why not teach little Shi a thing or two in advance, so he''s better prepared?"

    Xu Bin''s brow furrowed slightly, nced at Chen Sansi, and said coldly, "I still have matters to attend to."

    "You boy, we are all from the same vige, what''s wrong with helping out?"

    Old Man Xu pointed at his son, ready to scold him.

    "Uncle Xu, Brother Bin surely has military duties to tend to, there''s no need to trouble him,"

    Chen Sansi knew well.

    He and Xu Bin weren''t close at all, getting a few tips was already quite generous, how could he dare ask for more?

    "Humph!"

    On the donkey cart back to Po Yang County, Old Man Xu said grumpily, "Little Shi, don''t be like my foolish son, thinking himself a big shot just because he''s a small g, always looking down on people!

    "If he won''t talk, I will!

    "The first three realms of Martial Arts are Blood Refining, Bone Training, and Refining Internal.

    "Minor sess in Blood Refining qualifies one as small g, great sess as g leader, Bone Training qualifies one for Hundreds Commander, and Refining Internal for Households Commander.

    "Of course, these are just the rough correspondences of realms to military ranks, the actual situation may be moreplicated."

    As the rickety donkey cart traveled, Chen Sansi asked earnestly, "What did Brother Bin mean by military soldier and array soldier earlier?"

    Old Man Xu exined patiently,

    "Be it sects or Martial Arts Halls, there are qualifications required for disciples, and the army is no exception.

    "Generally, there is an assessment after you join the military.

    "If you pass the assessment, you can be a ''military soldier,'' if not, you will only be an ''array soldier.''

    "A military soldier can further practice Martial Arts, receive resources, and retains the qualification for military promotion.

    "An array soldier, due to limited talent, cannot cultivate Martial Arts, they train collectively in battle formations, andck the qualifications for promotion.

    "Archers, cavalry, they are all types of array soldiers, but with slightly better treatment."

    "Heh, I myself have poor root bone, I''m just an array soldier!"

    Chen Sansi nodded thoughtfully, understanding the implication.

    The status of a military soldier was akin to that of a university graduate from a military academy in his past life, with potential for upward mobility, whereas a big head soldier, could only ever be a big soldier.

    "I''ve told you everything I know,"

    Old Man Xu said somewhat awkwardly, "As for the Cultivation Techniques, I never quite grasped them in my youth, better not mislead the younger generation; you should study it carefully when you get back."

    Outside Po Yang County town, the two parted ways.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Chen Sansi quietly contemted.

    I definitely must be a military soldier, otherwise wouldn''t my enlistment be in vain?

    And I wonder about my talent for Martial Arts!

    Back home, the meal had already been prepared.

    With the household''s improved circumstances, they basically had white rice, salted duck eggs, and often meat with every meal.

    Gu Xin no longer went out to work as a female worker, now she was a full-time housewife at home.

    At the dinner table, she brought up Qin Xiong with surprise, "Brother Shi, did you know that Mister Qin has disappeared?

    "His brother has been frantically searching for himtely, nearly out of his mind.

    "Zhao San, who used to have conflicts with him, had an arm chopped off in the street, they say the blood was everywhere, it was terrifying."

    Zhao San was also a notorious thug, but he didn''t operate in their area.

    "Luckily, people in the vige know that we''ve reconciled with the Qin Family, otherwise they''d definitelye knocking."

    An arm chopped off in public?

    Martial Arts Academy Disciples, truly arrogant.

    Luckily, Chen Sansi now had the identity of a military household, even if Qin Xiong''s brother suspected him, he wouldn''t dare to act violently in public, at most he would strike covertly.

    However, he also needed to quickly enhance his own strengths.

    After dinner, Chen Sansi couldn''t wait to arrive at the empty space behind the house, and started reviewing "Basic Spear Technique of Array Soldier" under the moonlight.

    Though called a spear technique, the content inside was actually about Pile Work, without any rtion to weapons.

    Each page of the book depicted lifelike images, representing a Pile Work posture, with several lines of small text below that detailed precautions and cultivation experiences.

    His photographic memory finally came in handy, as, spending only around fifteen minutes, he firmly remembered thirty-six Pile Work postures and began to practice.

    Chen Sansi followed the drawings in the booklet, naturally pointing his toes forward, chest recessed and back pulled up, shoulders sunk and elbows drooping freely, top of his head pressing up as if supporting something, ensuring he did not let it fall, maintaining the standard of the posture.

    The movements seemed simple, but when he actually began practicing, he realized they were not as they appeared on the surface.

    Following the movements depicted, just after a few breaths, Chen Sansi felt his body changing.

    Starting from the soles of his feet, to his calves, and then to his torso and arms, his whole body began to heat up, as if the Pile Work was some kind of activator, opening up some mechanism in the human body.

    In this state, Chen Sansi''s physical and mental energy rapidly depleted, and he was drenched in sweat within just half an hour.

    Having mastered archery and significantly enhanced his physical condition, he was definitely among the best of those who had never practiced Martial Arts. Even so, he began to feel exhausted after training in the fifth Pile Work.

    He clenched his teeth and persisted until he had mastered exactly ten Pile Works, then finally couldn''t hold on any longer and sat down on the ground, his face turning pale.

    "Thanks to the improvement in my physique from mastering archery, otherwise I definitely couldn''t havested till the tenth Pile Work!"

    "Just don''t know ifpared to others, is my speed considered fast or slow?"

    After finishing the training, Chen Sansi''s first feeling was hunger, the kind that made him dizzy.

    "Brother Shi, I''ve made some food, would you like to eat something?"

    A gentle female voice reached his ears.

    Chen Sansi then realized Gu Xin had not rested and had been waiting for him all this time, and even prepared supper.

    Without a second word, he rushed into the house and devoured the food wolfishly, swallowing five rolls of white bread and a bowl of rice mixed with pork fat, yet he still felt somewhat unsatisfied.

    Indeed, practicing Martial Arts consumes a lot of energy!

    After eating, Chen Sansi watching Sister Lan tidying up the dishes, didn''t even feel the slightest romantic inclination anymore, just pure exhaustion!

    Felt like eating meat was necessary.

    Even though his family''s conditions had improved, they weren''tvish enough to eat meat at every meal.

    Looks like I need to be more generous to myself, can''t just focus on saving silver.

    Exhausted, Chen Sansiy in bed while Sister Lan massaged and rxed his body, and soon he fell into a deep sleep.

    The next morning, they hadn''t even gotten out of bed when they heard Qin Feng hade to the vige early in the morning to find his brother, clearly in worse temperament than before, obviously quite anxious.

    Chen Sansi paid no heed and went to report at the military camp after breakfast.

    ...

    "Where is my elder brother?!"

    Qin Feng gathered all the local bullies who had previously worked under his brother''smand and questioned them one by one.

    "Brother, we really don''t know!"

    A sharp-faced bully said, "West saw our boss seven nights ago.

    "After dinner, he said he was going to the county town to have some fun and didn''t take us with him, and then we never saw him again¡­"

    Another bully cautiously mentioned, "Brother, that night was exactly when the County Magistrate was assassinated, do you think it could be the barbarians¡­"

    "Impossible!"

    Qin Feng stated with certainty: "Those barbarians on this trip, would definitely not kill civilians indiscriminately!"

    He seemed to realize he misspoke, paused, then corrected himself, "I mean, murdering people would only expose more traces!"

    "Brother."

    The bullies looked helpless: "We even asked Zhao San, but beyond him, we really can''t think of anyone else daring enough to harm our boss."

    Qin Xiong had many enemies.

    But mostly they were vulnerable individuals like widows and orphans, who would dare to provoke him?

    "I do know one person!"

    The skinny bully spoke up: "That schr from the Chen Family had some disputes with the boss before."

    "The Chen Family?"

    "Yes, the guy from Yanbian Vige who is the best at hunting!"

 Chapter 14 Flag Officer and Selected Point

    Po Yang County Left Army Thousand Households.

    Military Camp.

    "Brother Bin!"

    Chen Sansi reported on time.

    Xu Bin held his sword by the waist, his brow slightly furrowed at the affectionate address "Brother," "In the camp, address by rank henceforth."

    "Okay, Xu g Officer!"

    Chen Sansi was indifferent.

    "Hmm."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Only then did Xu Bin nod in satisfaction, his face still expressionless, "Go change into your armor, then assemble at the Martial Arts Arena. The Lord Hundred Households will teach you martial arts."

    "Okay."

    Chen Sansi casually found a corner and started to change into the armor he had previously been issued.

    Though called armor, its main body was actually cotton, but with armor pieces affixed to the surface.

    This armor was referred to as either cloth armor or Dark Armor.

    As for the real armor, like those seen in TV dramas, only military officers were allowed to wear them.

    The assembly horn sounded.

    Chen Sansi had just changed.

    Arriving at the Martial Arts Arena, a wide, t, yellow-mud ground had already gathered about thirty or so people, scattered around, some spirited, some listless, some tall and robust, others thin as rails.

    About half of them were locals, the rest didn''t seem to be from Po Yang County.

    "Line up, line up."

    A soldier came to direct everyone to form lines.

    Following that, a fat man with a goatee beard took the lead, nked by two officers, strolling out one foot after the other.

    Raising his voice, he introduced himself, "My surname is Wang, first name Zhi. You can call me Hundred Households Wang.

    I am responsible for teaching you the basic martial arts of the border army.

    The Pile Work was distributed yesterday, you should all have received it. After Pile Work, there''s spear technique. Combining the two for practice constitutes theplete basic spear technique for military soldiers.

    Today, I will personally demonstrate it to you.

    The chubby Hundred Households readied his posture, his bulky body as stable as Mount Tai, performing the Pile Work as smoothly as flowing clouds, without a single deviation.

    "Next is the spear technique."

    He reached out, catching an iron plum blossom short spear thrown by an adjacent officer.

    The spear, about 2.5 meters in length and not exceeding three meters, was still considered a short spear.

    The previously steadfast Hundred Households Wang, upon receiving the plum blossom spear, suddenly became very agile, his iron spear thrusting out like a storm, the sound of tearing air echoing throughout the Martial Arts Arena.

    Leaving everyone stunned, it was their first time witnessing true Martial Arts.

    Before they could recover, a set of spear techniques coordinated with Pile Work was already demonstrated.

    "That''s it?"

    The crowd looked at Hundred Households Wang, who had tossed aside the iron spear, clearly not intending to exin further.

    That quick, who could see clearly?

    Wang Zhi ignored the murmurs below, cleared his throat, and spoke sternly:

    "Let me talk about the assessment standards for the new soldiers.

    "Three days Pile Work, seven days spear technique, those who can fluently execute spear techniquesbined with Pile Work within ten days will be military soldiers; the rest will be Array Soldiers.

    "For military soldiers, pay starts at three taels per month, with supplemental medicine provided every seven days. Based on Cultivation or meritorious deeds, one can be promoted to officer.

    "Moreover.

    "Among you, anyone who can first cultivate the first strand of Qi-Blood will be directly promoted to g officer, plus eligibility for next year''s Selected Point."

    Direct promotion to g officer!

    Hearing this, everyone was interested.

    Who wouldn''t want to be an officer right away?

    Regarding the subsequent "Selected Point" eligibility, very few understood it.

    The Hundred Households on stage didn''t seem inclined to exin either.

    Finally, a lean man with a goatee from the crowd dragged out his words and started exining:

    "This Selected Point means selecting the elite! Three years ago, after the Lord Governor took charge of the entire Northern Territory, he started selecting elite from each garrison. Those who seed in Selected Point could directly enter the Heavenly Strategy Camp and be direct disciples of Supervisor Sun~"

    "Tsk! I thought it would be a huge promotion and great wealth."

    "Exactly, who doesn''t know that confronting barbarians in the Eight Camps requires risking one''s life daily? I''m not going."

    Some were greatly disappointed.

    "You know nothing!"

    "If you want to go far in Martial Arts, you need the guidance of a powerful figure like Supervisor Sun and the resources of the Eight Camps."

    "Right, where are there shortcuts to sess without risking your life?"

    "¡­"

    Another group argued.

    "Enough, I''ve taught all I''m going to teach."

    Hundred Households Wang interrupted them, quite impatiently, "Next, you practise on your own.

    "For specific tips on Pile Work and spear technique, if there are things you don''t understand, go ask a g officer, ha¡ª"

    Fishing his statement, he yawned, massaging his shoulders and scratching his back as he left.

    "That''s it?"

    "What was just taught?"

    Everyone looked at each other in dismay.

    The entire teaching process had not exceeded twenty minutes, without even a detailed exnation or slow-motion demonstration, who the hell could learn it?

    The pile work, they could somehow manage, they each had a manual and could mimic like drawing a gourd from a model.

    But what about spear technique?

    No one could remember it.

    Someone went to ask the small g for advice.

    Only then did they find out it cost money.

    To demonstrate once was thirty coins, to teach hands-on was fifty coins.

    The prices were marked clearly, honest to all ages.

    Hearing it cost money immediately deterred most people.

    If they had money back home, enough to eat well, who would join the army?

    Of course, there were also a few ambitious ones who wanted to make it as military soldiers, willing to pay to start learning from each action of pile work.

    Watching the absurd scene unfold, Chen Sansi was rather speechless.

    This was the damn military!

    This could be used to make money?

    No wonder the garrison was increasingly corrupt, itsbat effectiveness ever declining.

    He couldn''t help but shake his head.

    Luckily, Chen Sansi had a photographic memory; he didn''t need someone else to exin.

    He took a deep breath, positioned his stance firmly, and the familiar burning sensation returned.

    Each movement previously demonstrated by Hundred Households Wang had been firmly imprinted in his memory. Now, he checked for any missed or incorrect movements.

    After confirming there were no mistakes, he began practicing the new movements.

    In less than half an hour, about half of the thirty or so people on the Martial Arts Arena had fallen, the strain of pile work being too much for most to handle.

    However, quite a few were still persevering.

    Chen Sansi keenly observed this.

    A boy younger than him was only slightly slower in practicing pile work, and his breathing rate was different from the others while practicing, seemingly having some special techniques.

    Upon closer inspection, it seemed extremely simr to what Hundred Households Wang had demonstrated.

    Initially, he thought the prolonged aura of the household officer was a trait of a martial artist, but now it seemed likely to be part of a cultivation technique.

    "Are we practicing apromised version?"

    "What do you mean?"

    Chen Sansi looked at the g officers waiting to collect money next to the Martial Arts Arena, how could he not understand?

    The breathing skill was most likely also going to cost money ¡­

    "Truly plucking feathers from crossing geese!"

    "But ording to Uncle Xu, it''s already easier to learn something in the armypared to the Martial Arts Halls."

    "Let''s master pile work first."

    He was confident about bing a military soldier, though he might not immediately advance to g officer to qualify for Selected Point, he also had no full guarantee.

    Keep working hard!

    ¡ª

    Not far away.

    Inside the tent.

    Four or five military officers were gathered around a table, eating and drinking.

    In the midst of enjoying themselves, the tent was abruptly flung open.

    A high-ranking military officer d in Lock Armor strode in.

    The officers immediately put down their food and drink, standing up all at once, greeting with sped fists: "Lord Thousand Households!"

    Lord Thousand Households Xiang Tingchun surveyed the mess inside the tent, frowning deeply. He berated them, "Idiots! Not training the soldiers, not practicing martial arts, just knowing to drink! If you''re really that idle, go to Po Yang County, help the city guards find barbarian assassins!"

    A group of Hundred Households bowed their heads, not daring to make a sound.

    Xiang Tingchun scanned them one by one, his gaze finally resting on a middle-aged military officer, "Hundred Households Luo, I''ve already submitted your promotion to Deputy Thousand Households to Commander, a reply shoulde soon."

    "Thank you, Lord Thousand Households!"

    The middle-aged military officer showed surprise.

    "Mhm."

    Xiang Tingchun nodded, then continued to address the others, "In recent years, barbarians attacks have been constant, our Great Sheng Dynasty is in need of more people, you folks should not always think about making trivial profits, teach what needs to be taught."

    "Yes, Lord Thousand Households is correct in his teachings."

    The officers echoed in agreement.

    Xiang Tingchun shook his head, lifted the tent curtain, and left.

    Within three seconds, the officers had picked up their drinks again, "Comeee, let''s all toast to Hundred Households Luo! Here''s to celebrating your promotion to Deputy Thousand Households!"

    "Hahahaha¡ª"

    They all congratted Luo Hundred Households.

    Only Wang Zhi, while toasting, muttered something silently, and secretly spat on the ground.

 Chapter 15 Pig Killer and Xu Wolong

    ```

    Martial Arts Arena.

    More than two-thirds of the people were sprawled across the ground haphazardly.

    One-third were too exhausted to continue practicing, while the remaining one-third had given up from the start.

    For them, bing a soldier was just a way to get by or, for some, they had been forcibly conscripted.

    Only thest one-third were still doggedly persevering.

    Among them, Chen Sansi was making the fastest progress, having reached the twenty-fifth Pile Work.

    Next was a youth with a special breathing technique, who had reached the seventeenth Pile Work.

    Last, there was a bearded burly man who had just about managed to reach the twelfth Pile Work.

    All three had started practicing as soon as they got the Cultivation Technique the night before.

    The rest, at best, had only managed to reach the seventh Pile Work.

    "It seems that the physical improvement brought by my expertise in archery is quite remarkable!"

    Chen Sansi couldn''t believe how his "Natural Bowman" physique was benefiting him so much in martial arts; he wondered what the next advancement would be like.

    The youth and the bearded man beside him kept ncing over at Chen Sansi as ifpeting with him.

    Fuck this!

    Chen Sansi was somewhat speechless.

    When he reached the twenty-sixth Pile Work, he began to feel more and more drained and decided to stop.

    It wasn''t because he waszy, but he understood that one can''t make haste when eating hot tofu.

    If he forced himself to continue, it might cause irreversible damage to his body and backfire.

    Seeing him stop, both the youth and the bearded man copsed to the ground right after.

    "Hey, what''s your name?"

    The bearded man wiped off sweat with his hand and asked, panting heavily.

    "Chen Sansi," Chen Sansi replied.

    "Chen Sansi?"

    The bearded man eximed in surprise, "The one from Yanbian Vige?"

    Chen Sansi was astonished, "You know me?"

    The manughed heartily, "In the country, who doesn''t know the good-hearted and skilled hunter from Yanbian Vige?"

    "That can''t be right..."

    Chen Sansi found it strange.

    Good-hearted and just referred to the time he saved Zhang Shun''s father, right?

    But that was just a small matter involving two taels of silver, not something that should make him famous, surely?

    "Zhang Shun''s old mother berated and beat you just because you owed her family two coins worth of life-saving money. She even wanted to sell your wife to Qin Xiong to pay off the debt. You didn''t hold any grudge, and on the contrary, you risked retaliation from Martial Arts Academy Disciples and offered five taels of silver to save someone!"

    The man was vigorously thumping his chest, his voice booming, "Where else can you find such a loyal and just man these days? Brother, I admire you!"

    "?"

    Chen Sansi was full of question marks.

    He had been close with Zhang Shun since they were young, but when had they be sworn brothers?

    And since when had Zhang Shun''s mother berated and beaten him?

    What did the matter with Qin Xiong have to do with Aunt Li?

    He wondered who could have spread such wild stories.

    Was this the so-called ''rumorspounding upon rumors''...

    "I share the surname Zhu, with a single name, Tong!"

    Zhu Tong said with a sped fist, "If you don''t mind, I''ll call you Brother Chen from now on!"

    Chen Sansi returned the gesture with a sped fist.

    The other youth approached as well, "My name is Song Yan. Your Pile Work is quite fast; impressive."

    "You''re not bad yourself," Chen Sansi said.

    Zhu Tong spoke rudely, "Don''t pay attention to this kid!"

    Chen Sansi asked in confusion, "Brother Zhu, what''s this about...?"

    Before Zhu Tong could respond, Song Yan preempted, "The Cultivation Technique you guys learned is missing a part, but mine isn''t because Hundred Households Luo is my uncle. He taught me in advance. If you want to learn, you can offer eight taels of silver to ask the various Hundred Households for instruction."

    "You sure have the nerve, being able to say that with a straight face!"

    Zhu Tong had happened to see this kid with Hundred Households Luo yesterday in the garrison, overhearing something about a breathing skill.

    "Okay, thanks."

    Chen Sansi nodded.

    Just as he suspected.

    Song Yan nodded too, and then went to find some steps to sit and rest.

    ```

    Zhu Tong pulled out a stuffed pancake from his bosom and handed it over.

    Chen Sansi didn''t stand on ceremony, and while munching on the pancake, he chatted with Zhu Tong, getting to know a bit about each other''s background.

    Zhu Tong was the pig killer from Zhu Family Vige, who, not long ago, had beat someone up because he couldn''t stand seeing a widower bullied and almost got sent to the Southern region tobor. It had cost more than half of his family''s silver to work things out and change it to enlisting in the military at his hometown instead.

    "Old Zhu, pass me a pancake too."

    As the two of them were talking, a hand stealthily reached towards Zhu Tong''s bosom but got pped away. "Scram!"

    Chen Sansi looked up and recognized the man who had been exining the meaning of "Selected Point" to everyone earlier, appearing to be almost fifty with patches of gray hair already showing.

    Zhu Tong introduced him with displeasure, "This is Xu Wencai, a notoriousyabout from Zhu Family Vige."

    "Hey, who are you calling ayabout?" Xu Wencai protested.

    "All day long, you either loaf around at home doing nothing or gallivanting about. Usually, it''s your old mother farming thend to support you. If you''re not ayabout, then who is?"

    Zhu Tong sneered, "There you go, with no one to do the work and earn the money after your mother passed away, you''re short on tax payments, hence you were dragged here to fill the ranks in the military."

    Failing to pay taxes also could lead to military enlistment.

    As for Zhang Shun being sent to work on the Canal, it was purely because he offended someone.

    "You... you''re talking nonsense!"

    Xu Wencai retorted agitatedly, "At home, I am one who ''reads ten thousand books,'' and when I travel far, I am one who ''travels ten thousand miles''! I''m a man destined for great things!"

    Zhu Tong spat out mockingly, "Calling yourself ''Wo Long'' and yet you can''t even pass the exam to be a Schr, and you''re giving me lip!"

    "Alright then, before I scram, how about giving me a pancake to eat, will you?"

    Xu Wencai hadn''t eaten for two days.

    In these past two years, unless there was a war, the garrison didn''t even provide meals.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    If every meal was guaranteed, who wouldn''t be a soldier?

    "Such a disgrace."

    Zhu Tong, in the end, still threw a pancake to him.

    Xu Wencai immediately ran cheerfully to the side, took out a book, and while savoring the pancake, he read with relish.

    Chen Sansi noticed the heavy bundle behind him seemed to be full of books, so heavy that the old schr could hardly straighten his back.

    "Mr. Xu."

    He initiated a conversation, "Might I borrow a book to nce through? I''ll return it to you undamaged after I''m done reading."

    At home, there was only one book left, and it was difficult to make further "reading" progress by reading it over and over. Buying new books seemed a waste of money, and uing Martial Arts training would require more silver.

    "Not lending."

    Xu Wencai didn''t even ponder over it.

    "..."

    Chen Sansi hesitated for a moment, then asked again, "Mr. Xu Wo Long, lend me just one book and I assure you I will return it without a single scratch."

    "Ahem..."

    Xu Wencai nearly choked on the pancake, then asked, "What did you just... say?"

    "Mr. Xu Wo Long, I said I wish to borrow a book from you to read," Chen Sansi repeated.

    "Hmm~"

    Xu Wencai squinted his eyes in pleasure, "Considering such sincerity, you must be a person who loves reading as well."

    "Yes."

    Chen Sansi admitted frankly, "I was a schr too, tried for the Schr exams for several years without sess, couldn''t continue like that and hence ended up enlisting."

    "Truly so?"

    Xu Wencai''s spirit lifted.

    "Truly so!"

    "Good then, I knew it!"

    Xu Wencai, filled with righteous indignation, said, "The Great Sheng Dynasty''s imperial exams are utter nonsense, testing only on rote essays. What''s the use? Us genuinely talented individuals are all buried in obscurity! Pick whatever book you want to see."

    He spread out his bundle on the ground, showcasing an assortment of books ranging from poetry to storybooks, from histories to tales of the bizarre, everything one could want.

    "If it weren''t for gathering money for my mother''s coffin and burial, I would still have a house full of books!"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi randomly picked one, "Thank you, Mr. Xu Wo Long."

    The garrison didn''t provide food.

    Normally, after a certain time, the military households would all go back home to eat.

    Chen Sansi also packed his things.

    Before leaving, he sought out Xu Bin to ask if he could get a heavy bow.

    If proficiency alone was so helpful, achieving small achievement was even more promising, so he couldn''t let his archery practicepse.

 Chapter 16 Heavy Bow

    "A bow?"

    Xu Bin had been preparing to go home for a meal.

    He and his father did not live together, but near the garrison in a military settlement, where he also had a wife.

    "Come with me."

    Xu Bin frowned, his expression displeased.

    The two went to the garrison''s arsenal, and after speaking with the clerk in charge, they entered the warehouse specifically used for storing bows and arrows.

    "You''re using it for hunting, right?"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Xu Bin said, "Normally speaking, before official allocation, soldiers are not allowed to possess weapons privately. However, I don''t use bows and arrows, and a g officer''s position just became avable, so you can use it for now."

    He paused, "Additionally, I''m very busy, so unless there''s something crucial, you should go to your superior."

    The underlying message was clear; he was helping with the bow and arrows this time but did not want to be bothered again.

    "Alright, Shanshi will remember the help from Xu g Officer."

    Chen Sansi was not someone who liked to bother others.

    But in order to improve, he had no choice but to be shameless this once.

    The clerk unlocked and pushed open therge warehouse doors.

    Xu Bin finished his instructions and left, allowing Chen Sansi to choose on his own.

    On the wooden racks of the storeroom, an entire wall was hung with bows.

    Sheng Army''s standard issue bows and arrows primarily came in two types.

    The small Shao bow and the Big Bow.

    The Big Bow was also known as the Kaiyuan Bow.

    The pulling force ranged from four forces up to two stones.

    The clerk in charge of the warehouse said, "Take whichever bow you can pull and then you will be given twenty arrows and an arrow bag.

    "However, the heaviest standard-issue bow here is just the two-stone bow.

    "Heavier bows are used by military officers, and you need to custom order them from the army''s forge.

    "But ordinary people don''t need them."

    He saw Chen Sansi taking down the heaviest bow from the furthest corner and hurriedly said, "Hey, hey, hey, what are you doing? That''s the heaviest, a two-stone bow."

    "That''s what I want, the two-stone bow."

    Chen Sansi''s profile data showed he could easily pull a one-stone bow, which meant he was not "just" limited to a one-stone bow.

    Easily pulling it indicated that his strength was far beyond that.

    He estimated he could manage the two-stone bow, though it would be strenuous.

    But considering that his strength would continue to increase with martial arts practice, it was better to opt for a heavier bow beforehand to avoid needing a new one soon after.

    "Two stones?"

    The clerk looked up and down at the young man, who was clearly not a military officer.

    He quickly said, "Don''t be reckless! I must remind you that there''s a target range outside, and you need to hit the target from sixty steps away to take it with you."

    "No problem."

    Chen Sansi did not waste words and went straight to the target range outside the warehouse.

    He held the bow and arrows, examining and getting ustomed to the feel.

    This bow, being the heaviest Kaiyuan Bow, was made with high-quality purple bamboo as the core, Sangyu wood for the limbs, and cow horn and hardwood for the bow tip, making it structurally moreplex than a recurve bow.

    He nocked an arrow and drew the bow, realizing that after two days of Pile Work, his strength had noticeably improved.

    Was the effect of practicing martial arts so immediately visible?

    No wonder it consumed so much of the human body.

    The two-stone bow weighed about 300 pounds.

    Chen Sansi gritted his teeth, his back and arm muscles coordinating as he exerted force, veins popping on his forehead and slowly pulling back the bowstring.

    "Whoom¡ª"

    A heavy sound erupted.

    The bow thundered, and the arrow struck like lightning!

    "Bang¡ª"

    Almost instantly, the arrow hit the target with a loud bang, punching arge hole through the two-inch-thick target and thennding far behind on the ground.

    "Bullseye?!"

    The clerk hurried into the target range, looking at the hole in the target, eximed, "Seventy steps, a two-stone bow, a bullseye?!"

    It was Chen Sansi''s first experience with a heavy bow, and even he was startled by the powerful impact.

    If this were used against a person, even standard armor might not hold!

    "You''re new here, just starting martial arts?"

    The clerk picked up the arrows and ran back, "You can pull a two-stone bow even before starting blood refining; does Xu Bin have such a fellow countryman?"

    Chen Sansi asked, "Can I take it now?"

    "Sure, sure."

    The clerk nodded vigorously, "Come here, I''ll give you twenty more arrows.

    "Just so you know, you''ll have to pay for any damage when it''s not wartime. It''s fifty coins per arrow, so use them sparingly."

    A heavy bow naturally pairs with heavy arrows.

    The price is also higher than that of ordinary arrows.

    Chen Sansi had just shot an arrow and immediately felt an improvement in his proficiency.

    [Skill: Archery (Proficient)]

    [Progress: (230/500)]

    [Utility: Natural Bowman physique, easily draws a one-stone bow, within seventy steps, snaps fingers three times hitting the target every time]

    With the practice umted from hunting in the previous days, his proficiency was nearly half.

    With the heavy bow, it shouldn''t take long to advance to the next stage.

    "I''m so hungry!"

    The physical exertion of that half day was truly too much for Chen Sansi, and a single pancake was not nearly enough. He simply decided to head home with his bow and arrows.

    The garrison discipline wasx.

    Furthermore, since the soldiers lived in the nearby military vige, they could go home anytime after reporting for duty.

    Chen Sansi didn''t even have an official assignment yet, and no one was inclined to supervise him.

    When he was close to Yanbian Vige, his attire of blue armor and red hat drew the attention of the townspeople.

    "I was wondering why I hadn''t seen you around these past two days, so you''ve joined the military households."

    "Not going to lie, Little Stone, you actually look quite the part in that outfit."

    "Imposing indeed, but I reckon you won''t have many good days ahead."

    "Uncle Lai Zi, you really ought to drop dead!"

    "Heh, you don''t believe me? Just wait and see!"

    "..."

    At these words, Chen Sansi stopped in his tracks and approached a middle-aged man with a mottled bald head and ringworm, saying, "Uncle Lai Zi, what do you mean by that?"

    Lai Zi looked around furtively, then lowered his voice, "I heard from Ergou and a few others that Qin Feng''s brother is nning to kill you."

    "Qin Feng?"

    So he hade looking for him, had he?

    Chen Sansi was not surprised nor afraid.

    With his military household status and without evidence, the other party definitely couldn''t just harm him recklessly.

    Not to mention the ongoing wars.

    The status of military households during peacetime and wartime was entirely different.

    Harming a military household without any reason was akin to challenging the court.

    Moreover, Qin Feng wasn''t someone of significant power or influence, otherwise, his brother wouldn''t need to devote all his energy to acquiring silver to support his martial arts training, at most he would scheme behind the scenes.

    "Thank you for the warning, Uncle Lai Zi."

    Chen Sansi continued on his way into the vige.

    As soon as he entered, he saw several of Qin Feng''s underlings rushing off to report his arrival.

    ...

    "Brother!"

    "Chen Sansi has returned to the vige, but..."

    Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy.

    Qin Feng put away the long sword in his hand and turned to ask coldly, "But what?"

    "He''s wearing a military uniform."

    The ruffian said, "I found out that he seems to have joined the army these past few days, wearing that armor. Shouldn''t we avoid making our move directly?"

    "..."

    Qin Feng closed his eyes and took a deep breath, suppressing his irritation.

    From what he had gathered, the hunter named Chen could be the only one strong enough and possibly responsible for his brother''s disappearance.

    He had initially nned to capture him, chop off an arm to force the truth about his brother''s whereabouts, but now...

    "I didn''t expect him to have joined the military households."

    The Great Sheng Dynasty was in constant warfare at the time, and he was merely a disciple of the martial arts academy. Attacking a military household in the street was purely suicidal.

    "No, we can''t let him train in martial arts!"

    Qin Feng suddenly felt a sense of urgency: "This guy used to be a schr who couldn''t even touch spring water with his fingers. The moment he picked up a bow and arrow, he had food to eat and his physical foundation isn''t bad.

    "If he truly bes a military soldier and gains position over time, wouldn''t my difficulties increase?

    "I can''t let things go smoothly for him, absolutely not."

 Chapter 17 Breathing Skill

    Returning to the cozy small home, Gu Xin was bent over a desk, meticulously sewing clothes stitch by stitch.

    Upon seeing her man return, she immediately dropped her work and came out to greet him.

    "I''m hungry."

    As soon as Chen Sansi spoke, Sister Lan busied herself in the kitchen.

    He sat down and began to read through the books he had gotten from Xu Wencai.

    The book titled "The History of Dasheng" was a history book, recording major events since the founding of Dasheng.

    Before Dasheng, there was a chaotic era simr to the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms.

    The Grand Ancestor Cao Xie, originally a house ve, forcibly carved his way out during the turbulent times, and reunified the fissured nation after more than a hundred years.

    It''s worth noting that

    Cao Xie was also a Sword God.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Rumors had it that he once used a flying sword to take a life from ten miles away and single-handedly broke through an army of two thousand three hundred.

    "Has this already exceeded the realm of Martial Arts?"

    Chen Sansi quickened his reading pace.

    Indeed, Grand Ancestor Sheng was a unique figure in Martial Arts, and such exaggerated individualbat power never appeared again thereafter.

    For the next three hundred years, every Emperor pursued the Martial Arts prowess of the Grand Ancestor, but none seeded.

    After Emperor Longqing ascended the throne, he simply turned to Taoism.

    He even dared to use one-tenth of the country''snd to cultivate Spiritual Grain to offer to the Immortal.

    "Did Emperor Longqing really see an Immortal?"

    "Otherwise, he''s not a fool, why would he willingly give up one-tenth of the tax revenue to make offerings?"

    "He''s making offerings to the Immortals, letting themon people foot the bill."

    [Skill: Book Reading (small achievement)]

    [Progress: (18/800)]

    [Utility: Keen Perception, Spirit Refreshed, Photographic Memory]

    Chen Sansi felt a surge of energy and simply closed the book as the meal was ready.

    Half a pot of rice, stir-fried beef, salted duck eggs, along with a bowl of fish soup.

    He devoured everything in a whirlwind, leaving nothing behind.

    Chen Sansi didn''t sit idle for a moment and soon went outside after regaining some strength.

    "I need to master Pile Work entirely tonight!"

    Late into the night in the countryside, a full moon, an old house, two figures.

    One outside the house, agile and tall, diligently practicing Martial Arts under the frosty moonlight.

    One inside the house, graceful and lovely, threading a needle by the flickering candlelight.

    "Whew¡ª"

    "I''vepleted the thirty-six moves of Pile Work!"

    Finallypleting all the Pile Work moves, Chen Sansi copsed exhausted on the ground.

    Having finished Pile Work, starting tomorrow he would begin practicing spear technique and the Breathing Skill, which he must not forget.

    After eating the prepared midnight snack, he rested briefly, then got ready to practice archery.

    Gu Xin followed him out, her almond eyes filled with reproach, she said reproachfully, "Are you trying to kill yourself?"

    "Don''t worry, practicing archery isn''t as tiring as Martial Arts training, I know my limits," Chen Sansi reassured her as he lifted his longbow, only to be abruptly stopped by her grab.

    "No more practice, you may not care about hurting yourself, but I do. We''re not starving, why push yourself so hard?

    "Come, let''s go to sleep inside."

    ...

    The next day.

    The dawn gently broke and the light dispersed the mist.

    Chen Sansi started his morning with archery practice.

    [Skill: Archery (mastered)]

    [Progress: (350/500)]

    Although drawing the two-stone bow was exhausting, it improved his skill much faster.

    The sweat wasn''t for nothing.

    Chen Sansi was satisfied.

    He checked the time and decided it was time to pack up and leave. Before heading out, he didn''t forget to sift through his chest and pull out eight liang of silver.

    "Damn that''s expensive!"

    After deducting the cost of food, drink, personal needs, and buying fabric for clothes over this period, he had only twelve liang of silver left, which nearly emptied his savings.

    "After this busy period, I must continue hunting, can''t lose the skill that feeds me."

    Having secured the silver, Chen Sansi put on his armor and reported to the garrison.

    Just as he was stepping out, someone called out to him.

    Zhao Qiao and Wu Da came running, one after the other.

    Uncle Zhao?"

    Chen Sansi asked, "What''s this about?"

    "Got a matter to discuss with you!"

    Uncle Zhao looked at the armor on Chen Sanshi without much questioning, as he probably already heard about it.

    "Right."

    Wu Da took over the conversation, "Brother Shi, do you know about the ck Bear of Tiger Head Mountain?"

    Chen Sanshi slightly nodded.

    He had long heard that there was a ck Bear on Tiger Head Mountain, and every year there were hunters who fell victim to it.

    "That beast, it has killed again!"

    Uncle Zhao said through gritted teeth, "Three Donkeys from the neighboring Stone Vige went up the mountain some days ago and never returned, untilst night when his father found him, and only his head was left, eaten by the ck Bear!

    "Additionally, as there is hardly any game to hunt recently, a few of us discussed whether we could take down the ck Bear to exchange its body for some silver to get through the winter. However, we alone couldn''t manage it; we need you as well. When the timees, whoever contributes more, gets more money."

    "Bear hunting..."

    Chen Sanshi didn''t rush to reply.

    It seemed like the surrounding hunters were driven mad by poverty and had started considering hunting the bear.

    With their hunting bows, they were no match at all.

    He indeed had a heavy bow, but it still posed a significant risk.

    "Let''s wait a couple of days then."

    Chen Sanshi agreed and after briefly discussing the timing with them, they parted ways.

    As soon as he arrived at the barracks, he saw Zhu Tong cursing loudly.

    "Damn it, eight taels of silver, why not just rob?!"

    Havinge to the barracks, he naturally wanted to give it his all.

    However, the garrison was too corrupt.

    To practice martial arts, one needed to pay first, who knows how many talents were missed because of this!

    "That''s nothing."

    Xu Wencai was rather indifferent, "Do you know why we, whomitted offenses, were not sent to serve far away but ended up in this military settlement? Because, in recent years, the higher-ups have been investigating payroll fraud, and they are gathering numbers. They feel a loss if they don''t seize this chance to make some silver."

    "Brother!

    After Zhu Tong became familiar with them, he started using a more affectionate nickname and said earnestly, "Are you learning the Breathing Skill? I''ll teach you! Seriously, after learning the Breathing Skill, practicing Pile Work isn''t so exhausting, and the progress is much faster."

    Xu Wencai immediately grabbed him, "Old Zhu, are you seeking death?"

    "Old Zhu, I appreciate your kindness, but let''s not."

    Chen Sanshi shook his head.

    Zhu Tong was really naive; if the lower ranks were allowed to teach each other privately, how could those above make money?

    Looking around.

    There seemed to be five or six people who had learned the Breathing Skill.

    He was not nning on saving money; after understanding the situation, he took his silver and went to find the Households Commander Liu.

    Commander Liu looked him over, and after asking his name, immediately refused, "I''m not avable."

    "Households Commander Zheng, could you¡­"

    "I have others to teach."

    "Households Commander Zhang..."

    "I don''t teach."

    "Households Commander Xiong."

    "I don''t know how."

    "¡­"

    Chen Sanshi tried severalmanders in session, and unbelievably, none were willing to teach him.

    The price was exactly the same!

    He realized something was wrong, and with a mindset to test onest time, he walked into the tent.

    Households Commander Wang, who had taught them spear technique yesterday, was lying on a chair, idly eating peanuts with a pile of shells at his feet.

    Chen Sanshi saluted, "I have seen Households Commander Wang."

    Wang Zhi nced at him sideways, and after a long pause, sat up leisurely, "So, want to learn the Breathing Skill?"

    "Exactly!"

    Chen Sanshi respectfully said, "I would be grateful if Households Commander Wang could kindly teach me!"

    "Agreed, agreed."

    Wang Zhi spat out the peanut shell from his mouth and spread out hisrge hand, gesturing with his fingers, "Bring it here."

    So straightforward?

    Chen Sanshi, who was almost ready to give up, had not anticipated this at all.

    Could it be that thesemanders had earlier agreed to distribute the number of apprentices?

    A bit odd¡­

    But at this point, if he wanted to learn the Breathing Skill, he had to pay.

    With due respect, he handed over eight taels of silver, and Chen Sanshi stood waiting quietly.

    "What are you stupidly standing there for?"

    Households Commander Wang, unapologetically pocketing the money, then waved him away.

    "Sir, what does this mean?"

    "I''m tired today, I''ll teach you in a few days."

    At that, Chen Sanshi''s heart sank with a thud.

 Chapter 18 As Long as the Mind Does Not Slip

    "Sir, you should..."

    "I said two days, can''t you understand human speech?!"

    Feeling the anger in the other party''s tone, Chen Sansi didn''t dare to continue, respectfully bowed, and withdrew from the tent.

    Wait two days?

    I''m afraid it''s not just two days and then another two days.

    By the time the ten-day assessment period is over, it''ll all be old news.

    "Others pay money and are willing to be taught, but when I pay, they refuse to teach?"

    Even a fool could see he was being deliberately targeted.

    Since joining the military camp, Chen Sansi had not offended anyone, so who was out to get him?

    Two possibilities.

    First, Qin Xiong''s brother!

    He was dressed in a military uniform, so Qin Feng didn''t dare to touch him but feared he might make some achievements in martial arts, so he targeted him in this manner.

    But Qin Xiong''s brother didn''t seem capable of mixing up with the true inheritors, he shouldn''t have the power to connect with the Hundred Households.

    So the second possibility, Hundred Households Luo.

    Hundred Households Luo''s nephew is currently ranked second fastest in practicing pile work.

    He''s worried that I might steal Song Yan''s future.

    It makes sense now.

    Chen Sansi felt an immense pressure.

    Climbing up the ranks is truly fraught with obstacles!

    "How about it, who''s teaching you? I heard Households Commander Liu teaches with the most patience and offers the best deal,"

    Zhu Tong approached to inquire. After learning the oue, he was furious, "What kind of nonsense is this? Taking money and not teaching? I''m going to reason with him!"

    "Old Zhu, you can''t go,"

    Xu Wencai advised, "This Brother Chen must have offended someone!"

    "This..."

    Zhu Tong scratched his head, "So what do we do? Among all these people, it''s Stone who practices the fastest. The qualification for the Selected Point should naturally belong to him!

    "Otherwise, what if I teach him on the sly? Surely nobody would notice."

    "Old Zhu, it''s really not necessary,"

    Chen Sansi didn''t want to drag others down with him.

    Even if the others had the Breathing Skill, he was still the fastest at practicing Pile Work.

    There might still be hope.

    With that thought, he took a plum blossom spear from the rack near the Martial Arts Arena and started practicing.

    "Spear technique?"

    Zhu Tong was astonished, "Stone, you''ve started practicing spear technique now?!"

    Not just him, everyone at the Martial Arts Arena took notice.

    "It''s fine!"

    Zhu Tong shouted loudly, "Stone is so impressive, everyone can see it, and if any military officer notices and reports it, there''s bound to be a superior who would value his talent."

    Xu Wencai looked at him with the eyes one uses when observing a naive child and gently shook his head.

    Clearly, that''s not how things are.

    There were no superiors around, but there were plenty of small gs, none of whom intended to poke their noses into others'' business.

    Including Xu Bin, who passed by.

    He had just arrived at the camp today and heard the arsenal clerk speaking of his fellow viger as a Divine Archer, highly likely to be a military soldier, so he thought of taking a look.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Then, he saw Chen Sansi being targeted, unable to learn the Breathing Skill even with money.

    "This kid, offending people as soon as he arrives."

    Xu Bin nced in the direction where Lord Thousand Households usually worked, took a step that way, but quickly retracted and, with a sigh, went home.

    "It''s definitely your second uncle!"

    Zhu Tong grabbed Song Yan by the cor, "It''s your second uncle who''s making things difficult for Stone."

    "I... I don''t know!"

    Song Yan''s face turned red, "I didn''t ask my second uncle to do that!"

    "Hmph!"

    Zhu Tong cursed, "In my opinion, there''s no need for an assessment, just give the Selected Point qualification to you directly."

    "I''m going to find my second uncle."

    Song Yan broke free and ran straight out of the army camp.

    Inside the tent, he found his uncle and voiced his doubts.

    "What''s the matter?"

    The military officer Luo, who was reading Military Books at the desk, looked up, "Isn''t this a good thing?"

    As he looked into his nephew''s clear eyes, he put down the Military Books and continued, "I did have this intention, but let''s not mention that I have yet to be promoted to Deputy Thousand Households¡ªeven if I were, the other Hundred Households, especially Fatty Wang, wouldn''t all be willing to listen to me.

    "Actually, just yesterday, Lord Thousand Households sent us to cooperate with the Martial Arts Hall in the city-wide manhunt for the barbarian assassins. Afterwards, the Young Master of Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy invited us for drinks, and your name came up over the table.

    "Heaven knows how he offended the people of Martial Arts Hall.

    "We''ve all been indebted to Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy for many years, naturally, we should give them face."

    "This..."

    Song Yan hung his head, "Wouldn''t this be too unfair to him?"

    "Fair to him..."

    Luo Dongquan felt helpless toward his naively righteous nephew and put down the Military Books he nearly threw, "Yan''er, why worry about others? Focus on your training to get the Selected Point qualification. Your concern should be entering the Governor Mansion in the future!

    Do you not know that without a mentor or a family backing, one can never don the crimson robe embroidered with the Immortal crane? Entering under Sun Dushi''smand is your only hope! Out you go, don''t bother me again."

    ¡­

    Meanwhile, in Hundred Households Wang''s tent, a couple of Hundred Households were gathered.

    "Hey Fatty Wang, you sure are ruthless."

    Householder Xiong joked, "It''s one thing not to teach thed, but why did you also take his silver?"

    "Hahaha, the drinks are on meter for the brothers."

    Wang Zhi was very pleased with himself.

    "But..."

    Households Commander Liu spoke somberly, "I remember that Chen Sansi seemed to be the fastest in this batch to learn the Pile Work. It''s a shame to waste such a promising youngster."

    "Since when has the armycked promising youngsters? I also learned Pile Work in a day and a night."

    Wang Zhi dismissed, "What the armycks are true geniuses, ones who master Pile Work in half a day and spear technique in three days¡ªthose are worth cultivating."

    "That''s right, after all, in our shabby ce, any resource shared with others means less for ourselves."

    Households Commander Liu stroked his chin, "But if thisd doesn''t make it, it looks like the Selected Point qualification will fall to Luo''s nephew. If he really gets into the elite of the Eight Camps, he could even manage to get Luo over as well in the future. That would be quite a leap to sess, huh!

    "Come to think of it, Fatty Wang, if you could bring along a genius, you might be able to return to the Eight Camps. You don''t want to stay in this deste ce forever, do you?"

    "I would like to, but darn it, where do I find a genius?"

    Wang Zhi fiddled with the Silver Ingot in his hand, putting an end to the conversation.

    ¡­

    Martial Arts Arena.

    Chen Sansi began practicing his spear technique.

    With his superior memory, his mind seemed to have a slide show that repeatedly yed the scene of Hundred Households Wang demonstrating the spear technique.

    Pile Work, which already exhausted physical strength greatly.

    Add spear technique to that, and Chen Sansi immediately felt as if his Qi Power was being drained by a pump. Fortunately, he was mentally prepared and persisted.

    With every swing of the plum spear, his heart raced, and his lungs felt ufortably constricted¡ªas if he had reached his limit running, with a taste of blood in his throat.

    Breathing Skill was likely meant to aid, to ease the pain and speed up the training.

    But!

    If it was just an aid, that meant one could learn theplete spear technique without it.

    It simply meant enduring more pain than others.

    As for the speed, so long as one trained fast enough, being slightly slower was no big deal.

    As long as one doesn''t falter in resolve, there are always more solutions than difficulties!

    Chen Sansi''s teeth gritted audibly as he continued swinging the iron spear in his hands.

 Chapter 19 The Trend of the World

    ```

    Thirty-six spear techniques.

    Each one with eighteen variations.

    Chen Sansi pushed through and finished the first three techniques.

    But at the same time, bolstered by the Breathing Skill, Song Yan also finished the Pile Work and began practicing spear technique, catching up significantly in progress.

    "If only I could train harder and faster!"

    Chen Sansi stopped.

    He decided to take a break and bring his archery to a small achievement level.

    Thest time he had a breakthrough and obtained proficiency, it improved his bones and physique. If he could achieve a small achievement, the effect might be even better.

    "Time to eat!"

    The garrison was not too far but not too close either, about twenty miles from Yanbian Vige.

    To save time, he didn''t go back home for meals but went to an inn in the military settlement owned by a retired old couple.

    "Give me five pounds of cooked beef, a bucket of Liang rice, and a chicken."

    After Chen Sansi and Zhu Tong ordered their food, before they could even start eating, someone else came over and sat down.

    "Tired to death from yourziness, what do you want now?!"

    Zhu Tong had no pleasant expression.

    "Brother Chen!"

    Xu Wencai ignored him and said to Brother Shi with a cheeky smile, "The pay won''te until next month, and I''mpletely broke and starving. Can I share your meal?"

    "Of course."

    Chen Sansi ordered two more dishes and some more staples.

    "Brother Chen is such a righteous man, you''ll aplish great things one day!"

    Xu Wencai unapologetically tore off a chicken leg and started devouring it, grease dripping from his mouth.

    "Shi, you''re too kind-hearted!"

    Zhu Tong cursed, "What''s the use of feeding him? He''s useless."

    "Who''s useless? Maybe one day you''ll benefit from my presence! And besides, I don''t eat for free; I can enlighten you about the state of the world, broaden your horizons!"

    Xu Wencai swiftly polished off the chicken leg, sucking on the bone until nothing was left. Then, licking his lips and in a lowered voice, he asked, "Gentlemen, what do you think of the fate of the Great Sheng Dynasty?"

    "Of course, it''s not exhausted yet."

    Zhu Tong muttered, "Although the officials are despicable, there are still more than two million military men and many generals. I heard the rebellions in the south have been quelled."

    "Wrong!"

    Xu Wencai continued to eat as he surreptitiously nabbed another chicken leg.

    Zhu Tong nced around to make sure no one was listening before saying, "You mean to say that the barbarians will eventually destroy our Great Sheng?"

    "Completely mistaken!"

    Xu Wencai shook his head vigorously, "The barbarians may seem fierce, but with Supervisor Sun, they will never really seed."

    "I''d wager that the downfall of Sheng will be at the hands of its own people!"

    "You see, these rebellions may be quickly suppressed, but they keep cropping up, and with time, one of them is bound to break through."

    At that moment, Chen Sansi interjected, "It''s like kindling a fire, which can eventually ignite the whole in."

    "Sss¡ª"

    Xu Wencai visibly paused at these words, as if savoring them, then pped his thigh, "What an exquisite phrase! It perfectly conveys what I mean!

    Brother Chen, truly a schr like me to be able to utter such a brilliant phrase!"

    "They were not my words¡­"

    Chen Sansi exined, "Please continue, Mr. Xu."

    "Ahem!"

    Xu Wencai cleared his throat, "I predict, within five years, the world will descend intoplete chaos! That will be the end of the Great Sheng Dynasty''s run, and the time for Mr. Wo Long to rise to greatness!"

    "Give it a rest!"

    Zhu Tong found it annoying, "All you do is spout nonsense. You better figure out how to master Pile Work. If you can''t even do that, you won''t even qualify as an Array Soldier; you''ll end up caring for horses or repairing walls."

    Chen Sansi looked at Xu Wencai, a hint of surprise in his eyes.

    Having received nine years of education, it wasn''t strange for him to foresee the end of the Sheng era and the onset of chaos.

    But Xu Wencai was a local, and moreover a rural one, for whom such foresight was quite impressive.

    Despite the awkwardness of always bumping into the Prime Minister, it seemed he genuinely had something of substance.

    After the chat, they returned to their meal with gusto.

    ```

    Sated with food and drink.

    Chen Sansi didn''t continue practicing martial arts, but instead took his bow and arrows to the shooting range.

    The more chaotic the world seemed to be, the more he felt the need to strengthen himself, not just in skill but in status too, to remain unscathed in the torrent.

    He drew the bow and notched an arrow.

    "Bang bang bang bang bang¡ª"

    On the Martial Arts Arena, a series of sounds like thunder exploded.

    After more than fifty arrows, Chen Sansi''s arms began to ache, but he dared not stop, continuing to aim and release one arrow after another.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    "Keep up!"

    "..."

    By the afternoon, a stir arose in the military camp.

    A few Households Commanders gathered their soldiers, and a troop of over three hundred fully armed men hurriedly set out toward the direction of Po Yang County.

    ''If they''re not heading to the Great Wall, then it''s not an enemy invasion.''

    ''But what in Po Yang County could warrant mobilizing so many people?''

    ''Most likely it''s the citywide search for barbarian assassins.''

    Not long ago, Chen Sansi thought that barbarian assassins would never be his concern, but now it seemed he might well be involved in such operations in the future.

    "Forget it, continue with archery."

    "Bang bang bang bang bang¡ª"

    As the troops passed by the shooting range, the thunderous sound of arrows caught the attention of the Householders Commanders.

    "Huh, has this kid given up? Not practicing his spear technique, but instead practicing archery."

    Householder Xiong was chewing on a bamboo stick.

    "Without the Breathing Skill, the pain of cultivating techniques is doubled. How many people can endure that?"

    Households Commander Liu gave a surprised sound, "A two-stone bow? A hundred hits from seventy steps on the target? This kid is actually a Divine Archer!"

    "Indeed he is."

    Householder Xiong also showed a look of surprise.

    Households Commander Liu clicked his tongue in amazement, "I wonder what he did to offend the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, such a pity, such a pity¡­"

    "Yo ho."

    Householder Xiong raised his eyebrows, "Old Liu, that look in your eyes, quite affectionate, eh? Feeling tempted?"

    "I do indeed feel a bit sorry for the kid."

    Households Commander Liu looked toward the shooting range, "How about this, I''ll ask the Young Masterter, what this kid did to offend him. If it''s nothing serious, I''ll help smooth things over.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Deal, and you guys can''tpete with me for him."

    "I''m not that idle."

    Householder Xiong turned to the left, "What about you, Fatty Wang?"

    "I, Wang Zhi, have seen true talents in the Eight Camps, would I fancy such goods?"

    Wang Zhi dismissed it with disdain, "Let''s hurry on, go to the city and get it over with, then drink and visit the brothels tonight."

    ...

    "Bang¡ª"

    On the shooting range.

    Chen Sansi was alone, practicing from dawn till dusk.

    To save time, he didn''t even go for dinner, simply asking Zhu Tong to send over some meat and dry food.

    He was drained of energy.

    The two-stone bow became extremely heavy.

    Chen Sansi slowly lifted his arms, hooked his trembling fingers around the bowstring and, with all his might, shot out another arrow.

    "Bang¡ª"

    Once again, the arrow pierced the target.

    At the same time, the panel reappeared.

    [Skill: Archery (small achievement)]

    [Progress: (0/1000)]

    [Utility: Arms like apes, waist like bees, stunning physique; three shots in a breath, piercing Yang at a hundred steps]

 Chapter 20 Mastering in One Night

    A familiar feeling assaulted him once again.

    And this time, it was more intense than ever before.

    Chen Sansi stood there, feeling his archery skills improving rapidly.

    From seventy steps to eighty steps, and finally a hundred-step piercing!

    A target the size of a willow leaf a hundred steps away was nearly invisible to the ordinary person.

    Yet he could hit it with every shot, and that too, three shots in an instant!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Twenty instants make one finger snap.

    Three instants, roughly one second.

    From drawing the bow to aiming and then firing, it only took one second.

    Even the top snipers of his previous life needed two seconds to aim!

    Besides the improvement in archery, more noticeable was his body.

    For some unknown reason, his body began to grow and reshape for the second time, with his bones changing to better suit bow usage, reaching the extreme limit.

    Archer.

    For archers, the longer the arms, the more suitable they are for pulling the bow.

    Thus, his arms became sturdy and elongated, resembling those of an ape.

    The power of the back determines the upper limit of drawing the bow.

    Thus, his backbones became morepact, and his waist slim yet powerful.

    Ape arms and a wasp waist, the bones were astonishing!

    The whole process, as if anesthetized, waspleted with rapid speed.

    Apanied by this, the fatigue on Chen Sansi''s body was swept away, leaving him feeling refreshed and full of energy.

    He opened his eyes again.

    Unbeknownst to him, night had already fallen.

    The vast target range was empty, with only the bright moon hanging high.

    Chen Sansi simply ate some leftover dry food from noon, then went to the Martial Arts Arena, picked up the Mei Hua Iron on the Lan Qi, recalled the thirty-six basic military spear techniques, and slowly began to practice.

    The muscle strain from ovepping Pile Work and spear techniques followed, causing uncontroble physiological shivers. He almost shattered his back teeth, yet his hands did not pause for a moment.

    Previously when practicing spear techniques, his body resembled an aged, rusted heavy machine¡ªalthough operable, each movement required great effort, wasting much time.

    Now, with a small achievement in archery and a remodeled body of ape arms and wasp waist, it was like recing old parts of the machine with new ones.

    Hence, when the machine operated again, although still heavy, it became several times smoother.

    The fourth spear technique,plete!

    The fifth spear technique,plete!

    The sixth route...

    He practiced one after another.

    Without the breathing skill to mitigate side effects, there were several moments when Chen Sansi felt his lungs about to burst and his throat clotted with blood.

    Every time this happened, signaling that his body reached its limit, he would pour adle of cold water over himself, rest for a moment, then continue.

    Chen Sansi, holding the White Wax Wood Pole, felt increasingly familiar with the Mei Hua Iron Spear, and his practicing movements got faster.

    The tenth route!

    The eleventh route!

    Continue!

    The universe turned, days and nights shifted.

    Gradually, soldiers reported to the military camp, making it bustling.

    Xu Wencai emerged from the tent, stretching towards the sky.

    "The day''s n starts in the morning!"

    He was looking through a Scroll Book and faintly heard the sound of shouting, that kind which was strained to the utmost.

    Xu Wencai found it noisy and followed the direction of the sound until he saw the scene.

    The rising sun spread its rosy light across the sky.

    On the Martial Arts Arena, there was a bare-chested youth.

    The youth wasn''t very big, but his physique was exceptionally good, muscr yet streamlined, with a frame that was broad at the top and narrow at the bottom, looking from a distance like an inverted triangle.

    However...

    The youth was flushed all over, his eyes filled with blood, waving a Mei Hua Iron Spear as if he were a mad, starving wolf.

    "Has Shanshi been practicing all night? Has he gone mad?"

    Xu Wencai hurriedly went back to pull Zhu Tong awake.

    Since they were new and had no houses, they all slept in the dormitory tents: "Old Zhu, you better go stop him, or there will be trouble!"

    Zhu Tong arrived at the Martial Arts Arena and couldn''t help but shudder when he saw this scene.

    This wasn''t trouble brewing.

    This was clearly...

    He was about to master it!

    He watched the youth''s movements, which clearly showed the final route of the basic military spear technique!

    ...

    Outside the military camp, the sh of armor and disordered footsteps arose simultaneously.

    The soldiers who had left the previous day returned to camp with dark circles under their eyes.

    However, the few Household Commanders at the front were all glowing with vitality, full of energy.

    "The new girls at the Spring Pavilion, they really are delightful," said one.

    "Exactly, exactly, so tender they''re almost dripping," another added.

    "Fatty Wang, from now on, we''re kindred spirits. Please look out for us," another said.

    "Hahaha, naturally, of course," Fatty Wang agreed.

    "Guys, better keep it low for a while."

    Unlike them, Commander Liu looked haggard as if he hadn''t rested well, "Lord Thousand Households was furious, demanding that we must find that barbarian assassin within ten days. He''s truly angered this time."

    "Old Liu, you''re just too serious,"

    Householder Xiong said, "That barbarian''s strength is no small matter. With the little silver we''re paid, why risk our lives?"

    "You''re right, who knows why the Thousand Households is so urgent. It''s very likely that the barbarian has already fled."

    Wang Zhi stopped walking, "What''s that noise?"

    At the edge of the Martial Arts Arena, a dense crowd squeezed together, each stretching their necks to get a look inside.

    "What''s going on? I never see you this eager during regr training, go away!"

    Wang Zhi kicked a few people away, making a path through the crowd, clearing a view for himself.

    He saw a red tassel shing, and a Mei Hua Iron Spear constantly swirling in the hands of a young man, causing gusts of wind and scattering dust. It was the thirty-six basic movements of military soldier''s spear technique, aplete, smooth sequence of thirty-six movements!

    "Bang¡ª"

    On the Martial Arts Arena, the Mei Hua Iron Spear moved like lightning, piercing through a dummy, scattering straw everywhere, as if sshing the enemy''s blood toward the sky.

    Chen Sansi hadpletely exhausted hisst bit of Qi Power and could no longer support himself. He used the iron spear as support, nting it into the ground and kneeling on one knee, gaspingrge breaths of the bloody scent.

    "It''s done!"

    Even without the Breathing Skill, he had managed to train in the basic spear technique.

    Regardless of whether he could be a Selected Point, at least his position as a military soldier was secure.

    ...

    "Damn it¡­,"

    Commander Liu''s eyes were wide as he tapped the shoulder of the person in front of him, "Old Xiong, wasn''t he still practicing archery yesterday?"

    Householder Xiong dropped his toothpick in shock, "Yeah, right. I also remember that when we left, he was still practicing archery."

    "That means he started practicing the spearst night, and by this morning he could do it smoothly," said Commander Liu.

    Commander Liu swallowed hard, somewhat in disbelief, "One¡­ one night, and he can perform the spear technique this smoothly?"

    Learned in one night!

    What does this signify?

    Most importantly, this guy had no Breathing Skill!

    Without the Breathing Skill, not only would it greatly slow down the training Progress, but the pain endured during the process is hardly less than the torture of prison!

    What kind of talent and determination must one possess to achieve such a feat?

    Moreover, how quickly could he master it if he had the Breathing Skill? Perhaps midnight, or a few hours, or even less¡­

    No way, this kid has to stay!

    No matter how he offended the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, I''ll help him resolve it myself.

    "Old Xiong, you have no shame!"

    Commander Liu snapped back to reality and suddenly noticed that Householder Xiong had already eagerly moved forward.

    He rushed forward and tightly grabbed the other''s arm, "We had agreed that you guys can''tpete with me for people."

    "Bullshit, when did I ever say that?"

    Householder Xiong struggled hard.

    "Blockhead, such a rare talent would be wasted in your hands!"

    "You''re talking about me? If you weren''t following in your father''s footsteps, you wouldn''t even make it to be a g leader!"

    "Blockhead, wanna try?"

    "Let''s go!"

    The soldiers exchanged nces. They had heard that this boy had offended someone, and he should soon be unable to survive in the military camp. Yet, what they saw with their own eyes was two Lord Household Commanders almost fighting over him?

    That''s often how things are.

    If the young man merely had decent talent, they might have felt pity but wouldn''t necessarily want to spend their connections to help.

    However, if they could see truly rare value in him, those connections wouldn''t matter anymore.

    Just as Commander Liu and Householder Xiong were arguing fiercely.

    A sly voice chimed in.

    "Little stone, we had a deal that I''d teach you in two days.

    "Come on, today is the second day."

 Chapter 21 Haoran Breathing Skill

    "Fatty Wang?!"

    Households Commander Liu and Householder Xiong turned back.

    Wang Zhi had, unbeknownst to them, quietly walked up to Chen Sansi''s side, his face wearing a friendly smile, and personally helped him up from the ground.

    "This Wang,"

    Households Commander Liu pointed at the fat man''s nose and scolded, "you yourself said that you looked down on this kid''s qualifications!"

    "Exactly!" Householder Xiong echoed, "I think you are the most shameless!"

    "You two brothers are mistaken, what does this have to do with qualifications?"

    Wang Zhi shook his head and said, "I, Wang, have always valued loyalty and credibility. Since I have taken the silver, how could I not teach wholeheartedly?"

    "Very well, very well!"

    Households Commander Liu was so annoyed that his teeth itched, and he unconsciously pressed his hand on the hilt of his saber, "Fat man, you also want topete with me? Sansi, you better think it through. This fat man cherishes wealth as his life, I could teach you without charging a penny."

    "Come with me!"

    Without another word, Wang Zhi grabbed Chen Sansi and ran; within a few breaths, the two of them had disappeared.

    "Fat man, I will never again be yourrade!"

    Householder Xiong and hispanion could only curse as they watched the dust settle, helpless to do anything but leave.

    Chen Sansi was somewhat slow to react.

    From being ignored to being frantically sought after.

    It seemed that those who were against him behind the scenes did not have absolute status and power; otherwise, they would not have given him a chance to turn things around.

    As for which Households Commander to choose to teach him.

    Did he have a choice?

    Hundred Households Wang was very strong, nearly pulling his arm out of its socket.

    The two stopped only when they reached the entrance of the camp.

    Hundred Households Wang released his hand, "Little Stone,e with me."

    The moment they entered the tent,

    Wang Zhi suddenly turned around and pressed his hand on Chen''s shoulder.

    Chen Sansi instinctively wanted to dodge, but that hand was like the Five-finger Mountain, inescapable, pressing heavily on his shoulder and causing intense pain in his bones.

    Only after feeling Chen''s body extensively did Wang Zhi nod in satisfaction, "Ape arms and wasp waist, but most importantly, solid root bone, a truly good foundation."

    "Ape arms and wasp waist¡­"

    Chen Sansi nodded,

    "In martial arts, talent is most important, followed by root bone."

    Wang Zhi sat pompously in front of the desk and exined, "There''s no need for me to exin talent, right?

    "As for root bone, those practicing martial arts must first withstand much torment, and their bones need to be solid. Moreover, various types of root bone also indicate different specializations.

    "Like archers, for example, they generally need to be tall and have long arms to easily draw a full bow, hence your natural aptitude for archery.

    "Ape arms and wasp waist, coupled with hard bones, count as excellent root bone!"

    Chen Sansi nodded, "Thank you, Hundred Households Wang, for the instruction."

    "You have grievances against me in your heart, right?"

    Wang Zhi''s small eyes gleamed, "You think I took the money and still didn''t teach you."

    Chen Sansi candidly said, "I dare not."

    "Dare not doesn''t mean you don''t have them.

    "Alright, don''t feel wronged. Households Commander Liu and Householder Xiong can''t give you this."

    As he spoke, Wang Zhi pulled out a booklet from his robes and mmed it on the table.

    On the surface of the booklet were the familiar terms "Basic Spear Technique for Infantry."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Seeing Chen''s puzzled look, he pulled out another Basic Spear Technique for Infantry, "Compare the two, see what differences these two books have."

    Chen Sansi did as told.

    Both booklets wereplete Basic Spear Technique for Infantry, containing Pile Work, spear technique, and Breathing Skill.

    Through the text, he learned the importance of the Breathing Skill.

    Lacking the Breathing Skill, enduring more torment, and practicing slowly might also allow one to master the spear techniquepletely, but it would absolutely be impossible to condense Qi-Blood.

    The content of the two booklets, regarding Pile Work and spear technique, was exactly the same.

    But the Breathing Skill had many different aspects.

    The first type of Breathing Skill primarily assisted.

    Pile Work and spear technique were too harmful to the body, so a special breathing method was used as lubrication, reducing the pain of Training while slightly increasing the speed of cultivation.

    The second type was called the Hao Ran Breathing Skill.

    This type of Breathing Skill didn''t offer any protection during practice and wasn''t faster than the first type, but it was said the cultivated Qi-Blood would be better than that of the first type.

    As for how it was better, he did not know.

    Fatty Wang peeled peanuts, eating and exining, "The Qi-Blood cultivated from the Breathing Skill I gave you will be more enduring, tenacious, and robust, just like me.

    "As for the other Breathing Skill, although it''s faster, it''s neither durable nor resilient, just like Householder Xiong.

    "I think you should understand what I mean? If not, it doesn''t matter; once you cultivate the Qi-Blood, you''ll naturally experience it firsthand."

    Chen Sansi pondered and asked, "Please enlighten me, Hundred Households Wang, why the same Cultivation Technique would have two different Breathing Skills."

    "A castrated version,"

    Fatty Wang said, "The Hao Ran Breathing Skill is better, but it''s not for everyone. If the root bone is not strong enough, it might ruin the person, and if the talent is not sufficient, it will greatly slow down the Progress. Moreover, this thing is very costly in terms of silver; it''s generally only taught in the Eight Camps.

    "I have informed you of both options'' pros and cons, it''s up to you to decide which one to learn."

    A Cultivation Technique from the Eight Camps?

    Chen Sansi looked at Fatty, then at the Cultivation Technique.

    "Are you looking down on me?"

    Fatty Wang red hard, "Don''t look at me as just a hundred households now, I was also once a man of the Eight Camps!"

    "Hundred Households Wang, you''re being too sensitive. I meant no such thing."

    Chen Sansi quickly made a decision, "I will practice the Hao Ran Breathing Skill."

    "Goodd, I knew I wasn''t wrong about you."

    Wang Zhi brushed off the crumbs from his hand and called a subordinate to bring an Mei Hua Iron Spear from outside, and started to teach him hands-on.

    "Stack Pile, hold the spear, breathe; integrate the three.

    "Take a deep breath, however you hold your breath, don''t hold it directly in your lungs. Imagine, this breath is the ''Power'' stored in your body, use this ''Power'' together with each move you make.

    "That''s not how you breathe, that''s normal breathing. You think the Hao Ran Skill is no different?

    "You need to use this ''Power'' to stimte your acupoints!

    "Yes, yes, that''s it!"

    "Hiss¡ª"

    With the breathing instructions from the Secret Manual and the exnations from Hundred Households Wang, Chen Sansi tried a few times and then mastered the correct way to use the Hao Ran Breathing Skill.

    Each of his moves was coordinated with "Qi", which transformed into "Power", stimting his acupoints and bones even more.

    What was originally a dual ovey of Pile Work and spear technique suddenly became a triple ovey.

    The difort almost made Chen Sansi gag.

    At the same time, a panel appeared in front of him.

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Spear Technique (Uninitiated)]

    [Progress: (8/100)]

    [Utility: None for now]

    "Pant-pant¡ª"

    After just a few seconds, Chen Sansi felt weakened and almost stumbled.

    "That''s enough."

    Wang Zhi called a halt, "Let''s stop here for today. You learned the spear technique overnight. Even an irond body has its limits; you mustn''t harm your body.

    "Especially with food, you must eat at least five pounds of meat daily, wild game is good, fierce beasts even better, best if it''s Exotic Beast Meat.

    "Once you get the Basic Spear Technique to entry-level, you''ll be in the Blood Refining realm, truly bing a Martial Artist!

    "When the timees, I''ll help you find Lord Thousand Households.

    "As for the matter with Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, do you have any grudges with Young Master Liang Zhan?"

    "Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy?"

    It became clear to Chen Sansi, who then said, "I have absolutely no grudges with the Liang Family."

    "Oh?"

    Wang Zhi seemed surprised, stroking his chin, his eyes shing with thoughts, not sure what he was thinking, "I understand, you go and rest."

 Chapter 22 Bear Heart, Leopards Courage

    "Is it Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy?"

    Walking out of the tent, Chen Sansi recalled the conversation he just had.

    Since it was Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy ying tricks, it must be Qin Feng''s doing.

    He could actually get the Young Master of Tianyuan to help him out, which shows they are not ordinary acquaintances, could it be that he has received the true transmission?

    Additionally, the hundred-household asked if he had any grudges with the Liang family, was he preparing to help him?

    The speed of Wang Zhi''s attitude change took him by surprise, but upon further thought, it made sense.

    Most likely, he was of value to them.

    However, Chen Sansi remained calm about this and didn''t feel it was hypocritical.

    The so-called human rtionships are nothing more than a mutual back-scratching affair.

    Without kinship or friendship, where does genuine emotione from?

    For this reason, Chen Sansi didn''t fully count on Wang Zhi to solve this problem for him, he still needed to focus on training and improving his own strength.

    He returned to the Martial Arts Arena.

    After the previous ruckus, everyone now looked at him in disbelief.

    "Shi Tou, how did you manage it?"

    Full of admiration, Zhu Tong said, "I just saw Song Yan''s second uncle turn green with rage when he heard about it!"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi was speechless.

    This was yet another offense.

    But it didn''t matter, he couldn''t shrink back just because he was afraid of offending people.

    "I''m going to head home for a bit."

    Chen Sansi didn''t waste time chit-chatting and started to pack up his things to leave the camp.

    It was not cost-effective to always eat at the restaurant; it was best to buy meat and cook for himself.

    After he left, within a few hours, the feat of mastering spear techniques overnight without any Breathing Skill spread throughout the entire Left Army Thousand Households of Po Yang.

    Many of the new recruits who had the intention topete for the "Selected Point" position psychologically copsed and gave up, shifting their goals to bing military soldiers.

    It wasn''t until two dayster that people began to practice spear techniques, one after another.

    The fastest among them was naturally Song Yan.

    On the third day, he finally learned the spear techniques with the aid of the Breathing Skill, but still felt defeated.

    "Second uncle, I can''tpare to Chen Sansi."

    In a double-courtyard house, Song Yan said with his head down, his tone dejected.

    "You have topete even if you can''tpare!"

    Luo Dongquan said with annoyance, "You still have a chance as long as you haven''t cultivated Qi-Blood yet."

    Two servants carried trays into the courtyard.

    On the trays were steaming hot boiled meat and offal, with the most conspicuous item being a dark yellow, elongated organ slightly twisted in shape.

    "This is a leopard''s galldder."

    Luo Dongquan stated, "Bear heart and leopard galldder count as great nourishing medicine. Starting today, you will eat one every day. It will not only nourish your body but will also help you elerate the cultivation of Qi-Blood. One leopard galldder costs ten taels of silver, and that kid with the Chen surname can''t afford it."

    "Second uncle, he is a hunter," Song Yan stated. "And I heard he''s a very skilled hunter."

    Upon hearing this, Luo Dongquan couldn''t help butugh.

    "A hunter? Do you think those hunters outside Po Yang County can''t even afford to pay their taxes?

    "The really valuable things on Tiger Head Mountain are all beyond the Second Layer Mountain in the deep forests. Those game animals hardly evere out, and the hunters also dare not venture in."

    "Why not?"

    "Why not? Because they''re poor!"

    Luo Dongquan said gravely, "Poor people just need to barely stay alive, that''s all. It''s not their turn to make money, it''s that simple.

    "That''s why I''m trying my utmost to send you climbing upwards. Only if you climb high enough, can you bully others, instead of being bullied!"

    "Second uncle, why do we have to bully others?"

    Song Yan didn''t understand.

    "You fool!" Luo Dongquan erupted. "Just eat your leopard galldder! As for that fat man, squandering and extremely greedy for money, he definitely won''t take out real gold and silver to support that Chen kid."

    ...

    "Whew¡ª"

    Afterpleting a set of spear techniques inbination with the Breathing Skill, Chen Sansi was covered in sweat and doused himself with a bucket of cold water.

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Spear Technique for Military Soldiers (Not Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (38/100)]

    [Utility: None]

    "Cultivating Qi-Blood really isn''t as simple as Zhu Tong said."

    He sat on a rock, catching his breath for quite some time.

    Chen Sansi had been training day and night for the past two days but only made progress to this extent, still some distance from truly being entry-level.

    "Brother Shi, it''s time to eat," Gu Xin called out.

    "Coming."

    Chen Sansi sat at the table and grabbed an entire beef shank to nibble on.

    Gu Xin said sympathetically, "You must be exhausted recently."

    "It''s okay."

    Chen Sansi inquired, "Is our home running low on money?"

    "We still have one tael and three coins of silver," Gu Xin had every detail of the household memorized. "We can hold on for a few more days."

    "Martial arts training is really burning through money..."

    Chen Sansimented with some irony.

    Within just a few days, he had consumed all the stored silver in the house.

    Yet even so, his body still showed signs of a Qi-Blood deficiency.

    It seems that the meat from ordinary livestock has limited effects; he must consume game to make a real difference.

    Chen Sansi dered, "I''m going up the mountain this afternoon."

    "Are you going with Uncle Zhao and the others to hunt ck Bears?" Gu Xin asked anxiously. "Be careful."

    "Mhm, don''t worry."

    Chen Sansi put down his chopsticks, and at the same time, someone knocked on the door.

    It was Zhao Qiao and the others.

    Zhao Qiao carried a basket full of fish, Wu Da held a jar of honey, and another honest-looking young hunter led a dark grey slender dog.

    After introductions, he learned the man''s name was Zhuang Yi.

    The four of them, familiar with the path, headed towards Second Layer Mountain.

    "There''s plenty to hunt south of Second Layer Mountain, but not much is valuable."

    Zhao Qiao said, "Including that ck bear, it actually alsoes from the north, under normal circumstances, it wouldn''t be our turn to take action. But that beast developed a taste for human flesh, and it''s cunning too.

    "It doesn''t dare mess with those who practice martial arts, so every year around this time, it quietly runs to the south of the Second Layer Mountain or the First Layer Mountain to attack hunters who go up the mountain."

    "Even beasts bully themon folk!" Zhuang Yi said indignantly.

    "We''re here."

    Wu Da pointed ahead: "Three Donkeys and a few other hunters, it all happened around this area."

    They stopped in a rtively open and t grasnd, ced the bait they brought with them on the ground, and then hid in the distant woods, nning to rely on the autumn wind to spread the scent and attract the ck bear.

    But after a long wait, they did not see any movement.

    "Let me do it."

    Chen Sansi had not wanted to show them up before, but since this method wasn''t working, it was better not to waste any more time.

    [Tracking Expertise (Mastery)]

    [Progress: 350/500]

    [Utility: Insight Shocking, Light as a Feather]

    It had been quite some time since hest went hunting in the mountains, and this was an excellent opportunity to improve his skills.

    With his piercing gaze, he soon found a piece of rotten fruit peel in the grass nearby and then cylindrical feces wrapped with insects under a bush.

    For Chen Sansi, as long as he could lock down a general area, there were no traces he couldn''t find.

    After he found the signs, the hunting dog followed over and discovered them too, barking excitedly as if it were in awe.

    To be admired by a dog; wasn''t that a bit odd?

    "Hey, Brother Chen, you''re really amazing!"

    Zhuang Yi spoke honestly: "You''re even better than a dog!"

    "Do you even know how to talk?"

    Wu Da pped him on the back of the head: "Brother Shi has real talent, learn something!"

    Chen Sansi gestured for silence and continued moving forward.

    After about four miles, they arrived at a valley with a small creek in the middle...

    Even from a distance, Chen Sansi could see many traces left by medium andrge animals in the forest across the creek.

    "Across there is North Mountain!"

    Wu Da said with emotion: "Not only are there manyrge animals there, there''s also a chance to encounter exotic beasts; one catch can make you rich.

    "Unfortunately, we have to ''avoid the brocade-clothed'' and don''t dare to go over lightly; if we provoke disciples of the martial arts halls, we''ll be in big trouble!"

    Chen Sansi had long heard about this: "What exactly does provoking mean?"

    "There''s no standard."

    Zhuang Yi took over: "It''s just bad luck if they don''t like the look of someone."

    "But it''s different for you, Brother Shi."

    Wu Da said: "If you could be a military officer in the future, you won''t have to fear them!"

    One step behind, forever behind.

    If he couldn''t be a g officer, he wouldn''t even have the right to hunt, let alone,

    Not wasting any time, Chen Sansi continued towards the west, leading several people into a dense forest.

    After entering the area, traces of the ck bear''s life became noticeably clearer.

    There were w marks on the tree trunks, footprints on the ground, and stones that had been turned over.

    Chen Sansi, on alert, kept his distance while searching for the ck bear''s figure.

    "There''s a tree hollow."

    Wu Da pointed to the hollow of an ancient tree ahead: "But it seems to be empty."

    As he said this, he was about to approach for a closer look.

    "Watch out!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Chen Sansi acutely sensed something was amiss and hastily stopped him: "Behind you!"

    Almost simultaneously, a massive figure emerged from the bushes and lunged at Wu Da''s back with a scarred face.

    The beast had been waiting for a long time!

    After stepping into the dense forest, he hadn''t heard any noise at all, so he dared not get too close.

    Wu Da and the others saw that the tree hollow was empty and thought the ck bear had gone out to forage, rxing their vignce. They never imagined that the ck bear, used to hunting humans, would now actively hunt them!

    No wonder the bait had been useless!

    "Thud¡ª"

    This ck bear wasrger than itsmon kind, approximately two and a half meters in length, weighing at least seven to eight hundred pounds. A touch could hurt, making contact would mean death!

    Wu Da didn''t even have time to grab an arrow; his bow was smacked into two pieces, and he was about to be struck in the face by a thick bear paw.

    In the blink of an eye, a Wolf Teeth Arrow urately pierced the ck bear''s left eye.

    "Roar¡ª"

    A sharp roar echoed.

    Zhao Qiao and Zhuang Yi finally reacted, hastily shooting their arrows.

    However, because of their panic, the arrows from their Four-Force Bows didn''t fully draw back and merely prated the skin, embedding in the fat of the ck bear. They did not cause substantial damage, but it was enough to drive the ck bearpletely mad, causing it to furiously pounce towards them.

    Being too close, Zhao Qiao and Zhuang Yi didn''t have time to fire a second arrow and had to turn and run.

    The hunting dog barked wildly at the side, unable to even get close.

    "Beast,e chase me!"

    Chen Sansi shouted as he released another arrow.

    Since the ck bear had its back towards him, preventing a lethal hit, he could only shoot it in the tough back.

    Nheless, because the arrow was heavy, it still half buried itself into the bear.

    "ROAR!!!!"

    The enraged ck bear swiftly changed its target, charging at the person whose attack caused it the most pain at incredible speed.

    It might look bulky, but it was astonishingly quick when it ran.

    The sight horrified Wu Da and the others: "Run!"

    But soon, they could let go of their worries.

    Because Chen Sansi was even faster, his agility was like that of a monkey. Using the dense forest to dodge and weave, the ck bear missed its attacks repeatedly.

    The de of the Wolf Teeth Arrow continued to cut into its flesh and bone, with dark red blood soaking its fur; the bear''s speed gradually slowed.

    After gaining some distance, Chen Sansi drew his bow and prepared another arrow.

    "Whiz, whiz, whiz¡ª"

    One arrow followed another in rapid session, hardly pausing.

    The explosive power required to continuously draw a heavy bow¡ªwhat an outbreak of strength!

    Zhao Qiao and the others watched in amazement, but they didn''t stay idle and assisted with their light bows from the side.

    Before long, the ck bear was hit by numerous arrows, its movements growing sluggish.

    Once Chen Sansi confirmed he could finish off the beast without injury, he deliberately avoided hitting vital spots, leading it out of the dense forest. Taking advantage of its weakness, he picked up his plum blossom spear and charged forward.

    Such a perfect live target, how could he not make good use of it?

 Chapter 23 Blocking Arrows with Arrows

    Seeing this, Zhao Qiao and Zhuang Yi quickly collected their arrows.

    Chen Sansi methodically initiated his Pile Work, coordinating with the Breathing Skill. He thrust the Mei Hua Iron Spear towards the ck Bear, using the force of its resistance to simte a battle.

    It must be said, the strength of such fierce creatures like bears is astounding.

    Even with severe injuries, the power of its swipes exceeded a thousand pounds, and its collisions even heavier, reaching several thousands of pounds.

    Though Chen Sansi''s strength had significantly increased after practicing martial arts, direct contact still forced him to continuously retreat under the tremendous power. Furthermore, the consumption of physical strength by his spear technique caused him to quickly break out into a heavy sweat.

    However, at the same time, his proficiency was improving at an extremely fast rate.

    As one bloody hole after another appeared on its body, the bear''s attacks became so sluggish that there was no need to even dodge them, clearly on the brink of death from excessive blood loss.

    It was only then that Chen Sansi delivered a spear thrust from the eyeball to the back of the skull, piercing through, and ending its life.

    "Boom¡ª"

    The heavy body fell to the ground,pletely lifeless.

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Soldier Spear Technique (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (47/100)]

    [Utility: None]

    In just a short while, the progress increased by nearly ten points; the effectiveness was indeed very good.

    Unfortunately, such ideal live targets weren''t always avable.

    "Sigh..."

    Chen Sansi nted the iron spear into the ground, taking deep breaths to stabilize his physical condition.

    After a while, Wu Da and the others came over, their eyes wide in disbelief.

    Even though the ck Bear was sluggish from excessive blood loss, it was definitely not an opponent just any ordinary person could contend with.

    Is this the difference between a martial artist and an ordinary person?

    Especially Zhao Qiao, he couldn''t imagine that the boy who had approached him not long ago to join him in going to Second Layer Mountain had be much stronger than any of them in just over half a month.

    "Uncle Zhao, Wu Da,"

    said Chen Sansi, "It would be great if you could chop some sturdy wood to make a stretcher, let''s carry the bear back together."

    Zhao Qiao and the others didn''t move immediately, standing and looking at him, with an awkward expression on their faces.

    "Little... Little Shi."

    Atst, it was Zhao Qiao who spoke: "Can we take half of the share?"

    In cooperative hunting, the earned benefits naturally needed to be shared among the participants.

    But they were admittedly a bit... useless!

    From the beginning, it had been Chen Sansi who found the ck Bear''s habitat.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Then, they had even been saved from a life-threatening situation.

    If it hadn''t been for Chen Sansi being there today, the three of them might have ended up dead or severely injured.

    Conversely, even if they hadn''t been there, given some more time, Chen Sansi could have worn the ck Bear down alive with his speed and heavy bow.

    But they had just paid their taxes and were so broke that they couldn''t scrape two coins together; they had also spent quite a bit on bait for the trip, and to return empty-handed would be somewhat...

    Of course, if Chen Sansi really didn''t agree, they could only ept it.

    Under the anxious gazes of everyone, the young man holding the spear in the sunset showed a brilliant smile: "Uncle Zhao, what are you talking about? Half a share is too little, at least two portions per person, right?"

    "Ah?"

    "No, no, no, no, no!"

    Zhao Qiao and the others almost thought they had heard wrong.

    They didn''t deserve to take so much.

    They didn''t even have the face to ask for it since he was willing to give!

    After much insistence, Zhao Qiao and Zhuang Yi firmly stuck to taking only half a share, whereas Wu Da had thought about a whole share but, after getting a stern look from Zhao Qiao, also meekly agreed to half a share.

    Chen Sansi didn''t press further.

    He knew they felt embarrassed; getting more when you work more was only natural.

    Moreover, a seven hundred-pound bear, including its expensive bear paws, could easily sell for fifty taels, so half a share amounted to more than two taels of silver.

    In usual times, this was equivalent to hunting twenty or so rabbits, so it wasn''t like they had run around for nothing.

    Chen Sansi didn''t feel pained about it.

    After all, beforeing, he wasn''t certain whether he could handle a ck Bear on his own, so for safety''s sake, he had partnered with others.

    Having made such a choice, there was no point in regrets.

    It was just a matter of understanding his own strength, and in the future, he could simply hunt alone if necessary.

    "Brother Shi, from now on, you''re like my real brother!"

    Wu Da smiled, his facial scar making him look ferocious.

    The group quickly cut sticks and tied them with ropes, carrying the massive ck Bear and heading home.

    As they passed by a small creek in the valley,

    the hunting dog began barking at the opposite bank "woof woof woof."

    He fixed his gaze, noticing two young men in long robes, looking discontentedly at the ck Bear on their shoulders from afar.

    Chen Sansi recognized them immediately.

    It was these two who had tricked Shunzi into repairing the Canal more than half a month before!

    After the incident, he had secretly gathered information about these two.

    One was named Li Hao, and the other Zhang Chao, both from Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy, but they were merely servant disciples, not even as qualified as the outer disciples.

    After years of training, they might not even have mastered the Breathing Skill or developed their Qi-Blood.

    Unexpectedly, they would meet again.

    "Woof Woof Woof¡ª"

    As if sensing the men''s ill intentions, the hunting dog''s barking grew louder.

    "Little ckie, stop barking!"

    Zhuang Yi quickly rushed to cover the dog''s mouth, "Don''t provoke them."

    "What are you afraid of? We''re not fighting them directly..."

    Wu Da had not finished speaking when,

    one of the young men promptly drew his bow and released an arrow, "Good beast, dare to bark at Grandpa?!"

    Although he imed to be shooting at the dog, his arrow was clearly aimed at a person.

    A willow leaf arrow whistled straight towards Zhuang Yi.

    The two sides were only about forty to fifty steps apart, and a Four-Force Bow was more than enough to kill a man easily!

    Zhuang Yi''s pupils dted as the arrow rapidly erged in his view, his legs went weak and his heart chilled.

    In the blink of an eye, another Wolf Teeth Arrow flew from the side, precisely and impably severing the willow leaf arrow mid-air!

    Using an arrow to block another arrow!

    "What?!"

    Zhang Chao''s eyes nearly popped out.

    A moving target, so small, and in such a short time.

    How...How could that be?!

    "The military officer''s Second Stone Heavy Bow?"

    Li Hao''s face turned unpleasant, "Is...is it you?"

    They both had recognized Chen Sansi as well.

    "How has this guy be a military man?"

    "Let''s go!"

    Li and Zhang exchanged a nce and fled in panic, not even leaving a chance for Chen Sansi to speak. Only when they had gotten far away did they shout a threat: "You wait!"

    "A bunch of cowards."

    As for Chen Sansi now, he didn''t need to fear them anymore.

    After all, these were men even Qin Feng wouldn''t bother with.

    The whole process, from the other party shooting an arrow to being scared off by Chen Sansi, took just a few seconds.

    So much so that Wu Da and the others took a long time to realize what had just happened.

    "Brother Chen..."

    Zhuang Yi''s voice still trembled, "You saved my life, I¡­I..."

    He was at a loss for words, unsure how to express his gratitude.

    "It''s nothing."

    Chen Sansi said calmly, "If I hadn''t retaliated, their next arrow would have been aimed at me."

    Even servant disciples from the martial arts academy dared to bully like this.

    It seemed he had to vie for the position of military officer!

    With the status of a military officer for protection, the arrow he shot just now wouldn''t have been to block the arrow but to take a life!

    "Let''s head down the mountain."

    After a close shave, the party, carrying the ck Bear, headed back home.

    The county was still under martialw, and it was not known where that barbarian was hiding since he hadn''t been found yet.

    It was almost as Chen Sansi had calcted.

    The ck Bear totaled fifty-one taels.

    The rest each received a little over two taels and five maces of silver.

    Chen Sansi kept the bear heart valued at twenty taels, undold, and also kept thirty pounds of bear meat. In the end, he pocketed twenty taels of snowke silver.

    "It shouldst for a while."

    Cradling the still warm bear heart wrapped in lotus leaves, Chen Sansi hurried home eagerly.

    The bear heart was a great tonic, particrly beneficial for his recent deficiency in Qi-Blood.

 Chapter 24 Blood Refining

    Chen Sansi and Zhao Qiao returned to Yanbian Vige together.

    Along the way, they were almost treated as heroes.

    After all, with the ck Bear dead, whether going up the mountain to hunt or gather herbs, it would be much safer.

    Some vigers wanted to send their children to him as apprentices.

    Others wanted to offer their daughters to him as concubines.

    A single bear equaled several dozen taels of silver, which in those days could buy the lives of many young girls of marriageable age.

    Chen Sansi naturally declined each offer politely.

    Even when he pushed open his door, two matchmakers coincidentally walked out of his house.

    "How did all thise to my doorstep?"

    Chen Sansi was speechless.

    "You weren''t injured, were you?"

    Gu Xin, as always, checked the man''s body to make sure he was unharmed before she breathed a sigh of relief, "What do you think?

    "What do you mean, what do I think?"

    Chen Sansi was stunned for a moment before he realized she was referring to the matter of taking a concubine.

    He hurriedly shook his head, "I need to focus on practicing martial arts, I don''t have time for this."

    "I figured as much, so I turned them down for you."

    Gu Xin helped him unload the bow and iron spear from his body and said softly, "Brother Shi, whenever you want to find someone, just tell me, and I''ll help you pick a good-looking one."

    Chen Sansi was somewhat surprised.

    It seemed that Sister Lan didn''t care about this matter after all.

    Indeed, the mindset of ancient women was different.

    "Sister Lan, please prepare this for me, just boil it in in water without adding salt."

    Chen Sansi hadn''t forgotten the important matter at hand, he took out the nearly four-pound bear heart, which felt potent with vigorous life force even through the lotus leaves.

    "Keep this silver safe, remember to rece anything that''scking at home, and also manage this bear meat for me; I n to take it to the garrison in a couple of days to share."

    Having a female master in the house meant that he almost didn''t need to worry about anything.

    Gu Xin started a fire in the kitchen.

    Chen Sansi went outside to practice his spear technique.

    After several sets of spear movements, he was so hungry that he felt dizzy, and there was a clear sense of "deficit" within his body; fortunately, the meal was soon ready.

    Bear meat, pork, rice, wild vegetable and egg soup, and most importantly, the hearty dish of bear heart.

    Chen Sansi picked up the bear heart and took a big bite directly.

    The taste of blood spread throughout his mouth, then rushed straight to the crown of his head, almost causing him to vomit. He covered his mouth and forcefully chewed and swallowed.

    Taste aside, the effects were genuinely good.

    As soon as the bear heart entered his stomach, Chen Sansi felt a warmth there, as if a small me was burning. As his digestive system worked, the nutrients were quickly absorbed by his body, replenishing the deficit caused by practicing martial arts.

    He couldn''t be fussy about the taste and stuffed more pieces of bear heart meat into his mouth.

    After consuming a third of the bear heart, Chen Sansi felt as if he were on fire. He hurriedly ate some other foods to fill his stomach, then rushed outside to continue practicing.

    The bear heart was indeed a great supplement; he practiced until it was dark and did not feel the "deficit" anymore. If it wasn''t for the need to rest his muscles, he would have considered practicing all night long.

    [Cultivation Technique: Military Basic Spear Technique (Not Initiated)]

    [Progress: (67/100)]

    [Utility: None]

    Efficacy skyrocketed!

    With two-thirds of the bear heart remaining, producing his first thread of Qi-Blood was just a matter of a couple of days.

    After putting away his spear and returning to the house, the great supplement effects of the bear heart were still active; Chen Sansi felt full of energy.

    Under the warm yellow candlelight, Gu Xin was rushing to finish sewing clothes.

    Since she no longer had tobor outside, her skin had be even more fair, and her fingers were no longer swollen, from afar, she appeared as if carved out of white jade.

    To save silver, Gu Xin did not buy ready-made clothes, but instead bought various fabrics to make them herself.

    Chen Sansi quietly walked up behind her, and suddenly, he whispered in her ear, "Wife, put on the red one, I''ll wait for you in the room."

    "Ah...."

    Gu Xin hadn''t heard his footsteps and was startled into trembling.

    She patted her chest, then her eyes drifted towards the fabric on the table.

    Red...

    Her face flushed deeply.

    It was a half-finished red bellyband.

    ...

    Chen Sansi stayed at home for two days.

    On the third day, thinking it was about time, he packed up his belongings and headed towards the garrison.

    Cloth armor and a red hat, carrying a bow and spear, full of style.

    The vigers frequently cast their nces.

    "Brother Shi is about to be an official," one said.

    "Yes, I have a rtive who serves in the garrison too; I heard Brother Shi is doing quite well."

    "Psh! I don''t think his fancy days willst long."

    "Uncle Lai Zi, you really can''t speak anything good!"

    "Believe it or not, whatever."

    Uncle Lai Zi raised his voice loud enough to ensure Brother Shi heard him.

    "Uncle Lai Zi."

    Chen Sansi approached, "Do you have something to say to me again?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "You''re quite sharp,d!"

    Uncle Lai Zi leaned closer, "Guess what I saw recently?

    "These past few days, I''ve been seeing Qin Xiong''s brother frequently inviting a fat official from the military camp to drinks. Guess what he''s nning?"

    The fat official?

    Wang Zhi?

    Chen Sansi spected.

    Qin Feng has been frequently hosting Wang Zhi recently?

    He wasn''t too worried.

    Wang Zhi had known long ago that he had issues with the people from Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy. If he intended to harm him, why would he bother to teach Hao Ran the Breathing Skill?

    Moreover, epting invitations doesn''t mean he agrees to help with affairs.

    He had experienced this firsthand.

    It looked likely that Qin Feng would waste his silver for nothing...

    Of course, Chen Sansi still needed to be cautious in case the other party became desperate.

    He had specifically inquired about it these past few days.

    He learned that half a month ago, Qin Feng had suddenly transformed from an external disciple to a True Inheritor, but since bing a True Inheritor, he had only recently mastered Blood Refining.

    Chen Sansi was only a step away from entering Blood Cultivation.

    When the time came, he might be able to battle it out.

    The experience of hunting ck Bear had taught him that having a bit of extra strength wasn''t that remarkable!

    With this in mind, he felt full of motivation.

    At the entrance to the military camp, he encountered Wang Zhi returning on horseback.

    Even from a distance, he could smell the thick scent of alcohol on him.

    "Catch!"

    He tossed him a sk, "Inside is deer blood wine. This sk alone costs three taels of silver, but it''s worth it. I bought it especially for you!

    "Who says I, Wang Zhi, am stingy and treasure money as if it were my life? Don''t listen to Old Liu and the others spouting nonsense. Stick with me, and you won''t miss out on benefits!

    "You also strive for it, and try to cultivate your first strand of Qi-Blood within ten days."

    "Thank you, Hundred Households Wang."

    Chen Sansi bowed with his hands sped, "I have reached a bottleneck practicing my spear technique and was wondering if I might receive some guidance from you to prevent any deviations?"

    "Bottleneck? What bottleneck in the introductory period, wait a minute¡ª"

    Wang Zhi sobered up a bit, "You, you''re about to start Blood Cultivation?!"

    At the Martial Arts Arena.

    Chen Sansi swallowed thest piece of bear heart and gulped down a few more mouthfuls of deer blood wine, feeling an intense heat throughout his body, with Qi Power almost overflowing.

    He seized the moment to pick up his Plum Blossom Spear and practiced the basic military spear skills.

    Pile Work, spear technique, Breathing Skill!

    With the triple reinforcement, Chen Sansi''s body entered a fully loaded state. Coupled with the supplement of meat and wine, his spear moves became faster and faster, not feeling the slightest fatigue or depletion.

    His heart was beating wildly, as if something was about to burst forth from within.

    ''Is this Qi-Blood?'' he wondered.

    Chen Sansi knew this was the crucial moment for cultivating Qi-Blood, so he dared not stop, continuously increasing the power of each move, exhaustingly extracting everyst bit of physical strength and pushing his heart to the limit.

    Until his arms went numb and veins bulged all over his body, he let out a loud shout, gathering hisst breath, and thrust the spear into arge stone at the edge of the Martial Arts Arena.

    Atst.

    A unique stream of hot blood flowed from his heart.

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Military Spear Skill (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (0/500)]

    [Utility: Swift Gun Movement, Amazing Endurance]

 Chapter 25 Wang Zhi

    Blood Refining Introduction!

    Chen Sansi exhaled a turbid breath.

    The so-called Blood Cultivation Introduction.

    It is the cultivation of a strand of special "Qi-Blood" within the body.

    Those who practice Martial Arts are able to mobilize this strand of Qi-Blood to enhance the power of their attacks.

    The stronger the Qi-Blood, the longer the peakbat performance can be maintained.

    Just as Householder Xiong had said, only after reaching the Blood Refining realm could one understand the importance of Qi-Blood quality.

    This was just the beginning, and in the future, the gap between ordinary Breathing Skill and vast Breathing Skill would only grow wider.

    "Stab me!"

    Wang Zhi''s shout came from beside his ear, "I told you to thrust your spear at me!"

    Chen Sansi did not understand why, but he didn''t hesitate either; he picked up the Mei Hua Iron Spear, channeled his Qi-Blood through his right arm, and stabbed towards the face of Lord Thousand Households.

    "ng¡ª"

    Fatty Wang struck with the sheath of his knife, confirming the strength was correct, "Did you really cultivate Qi-Blood?"

    How long had it been?

    At most, only six days!

    Those who could cultivate Qi-Blood within a month were regarded as having boundless potential.

    What did it mean to seed in six days?!

    What''s more terrifying is that he cultivated using the vast Breathing Skill!

    It''s true that the vast Breathing Skill is stronger, but it also means that cultivating Qi-Blood through this method is much more difficult.

    Yet he only took six days!

    What kind of talent was this?

    After his shock, Wang Zhi tried to control his facial expression, "You did quite well for being so nonchnt, kid."

    "Nonchnt my ass!"

    Hearing themotion, Households Commander Liu and Householder Xiong also came to see and were astounded by the scene.

    To cultivate Qi-Blood in six days, even in the Eight Camps that would be considered top-notch talent, right?

    What had they missed out on?

    This young man might soon join the Eight Camps, and if he got heavily relied upon, he could rise rapidly to be a Sealed Border Governor, or even a top-ranking official.

    By then, even if they received a bit of favor based on the past incense offerings, they could also ascend to heaven along with him.

    Although this was only a possibility, letting this opportunity slip through their fingers was infuriating enough.

    "Old Xiong!"

    Households Commander Liu rubbed his knife handle, "Let''s take care of him another day, shall we?"

    "No need for another day."

    Householder Xiong grabbed an axe from the rack, "Let''s do it today."

    The Martial Arts Arena quickly became lively.

    When everybody learned that while some were still practicing Pile Work, Chen Sansi had already cultivated Qi-Blood, they were all stunned.

    Luo Dongquan was also drawn by the noisy voices, his face ashen.

    His good-for-nothing nephew would need at least seven more days to cultivate Qi-Blood, which was twice as slow.

    "Get lost, I''m not in the mood to y with you all!"

    Without paying attention to the two Hundred Households, Wang Zhi led the young man into the tent.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    He first poured himself a bowl of wine and drank it, then said, "Today, Households Commander Xiang went to the county city. Once he''s back, I''ll report this. The Selected Point qualification rightfully belongs to you."

    "Thank you, Hundred Households Wang."

    Chen Sansi did not dare to take this seemingly avaricious fat man lightly.

    This guy might not look much, but his strength was extraordinary.

    That previous thrust, he had put in all his effort, yet the opponent had effortlessly blocked it with just the sheath of his knife.

    With such a huge gap in strength, one truly couldn''t underestimate any military officer.

    "You are now officially a martial master."

    Wang Zhi asked, "What weapon do you n to primarily train with from now on?"

    Chen Sansi had not considered this question before.

    Fatty Wang exined the army camp system.

    "During new soldier training, short spears are uniformly issued.

    "After the assessment is over, military soldiers can choose the weapon they like or are skilled with, while Array Soldiers can only be assigned based on the needs of their unit.

    "But don''t think the basic spear technique of the soldiers is poor.

    "This set of spear techniques was created by the most valiant general under Great Ancestor Sheng, and if it were in Jianghu, it would definitely be treasured by the average sect as a family heirloom.

    "The reason it''s used to train new soldiers is precisely because it''s not easy to learn, and it can test a person''s talent and potential.

    "After testing, of course, you can change to what you prefer."

    Chen Sansi voiced his doubt, "Won''t changing weapons affect Martial Arts Progress?"

    "You''ve only just started, and haven''t deeply specialized. It''s quite easy to switch."

    Wang Zhi said, "Moreover, there''s a saying, ''Staff takes a month, saber takes a year, and a lifetime is needed for the spear; the treasure sword is hidden on one''s person.''

    "Without a doubt, the spear is the hardest to learn, followed by the sword.

    "With your talent, if you followed me to learn the de, your cultivation speed would be even faster. How about it, want to consider it?"

    Chen Sansi understood the principle that a weapon''s length added to its strength.

    In the future on the battlefield, long weapons theoretically had a higher limit.

    Besides, although spear techniques were difficult, it wasn''t as if he couldn''t learn them.

    He had never chased after quick sess. Advancing step by step ensured a more solid foundation in his arts.

    "I will continue to train with the spear."

    Chen Sansi made his decision.

    "You do have ambition."

    Wang Zhi didn''t urge him further but changed the topic, "However, Sansi, with you being fought over by me and Old Liu amongst others, do you feel like you''re about to soar to the skies?"

    "No."

    Chen Sansi was aware of the value he had shown, which might be considered not bad.

    But he wasn''t foolish enough to believe it was "secure."

    Possibilities, before they be reality, are merely possibilities.

    He believed that so-called "geniuses" were never in short supply.

    But those who truly made it to the end and stood at the top, were not necessarily those "geniuses."

    Moreover, he never considered himself a top-notch genius.

    More often, it was about relying on one''s own efforts.

    Fatty Wang telling him this probably meant he really saw him as one of his own.

    Chen Sansi gave a cupped fist salute, "Thank you, Hundred Households Wang, for the guidance."

    "As long as you understand, that''s good. But you also need not be overly cautious."

    Wang Zhi personally poured two bowls of wine and handed one to him, "Although I am just a sixth-rank Householder, within Po Yang County''s territory, I can still protect my subordinates."

    "I will remember that."

    Chen Sansi picked up the bowl and drank it in one gulp.

    Hundred Households Wang also drained his bowl, then tossed it aside, patted his stomach, and headed out the door, "I''m off. I still have to join the Lord Thousand Households tonight to carry out a mission, fighting bloody battles! "

    "Buzz¡ª¡ª"

    Following that, a rallying call sounded throughout the military camp.

    Hundred Households Wang and Households Commander Liu gathered their men to head into the city.

    "Entering the city again, are they still hunting the barbarian assassins?"

    Chen Sansi contemted, "With all this chaostely, it really isn''t easy to make a move..."

    But it couldn''t be dyed any longer.

    Qin Feng had already be a True Inheritor, the longer the dy, the more troublesome it would be.

    Time to change the approach.

    With all this chaos, the death of one or two people should be quite normal, right?

    ...

    "Mr. Wang, you are so naughty~"

    "You are so big~ Hahaha!"

    Spring Pavilion.

    In the private room.

    Wang Zhi, with a beauty in each arm, couldn''t stop being fed grapes and sipping fine wine, thoroughly enjoying himself.

    Across from him.

    Sat two young men.

    One was dressed extravagantly, holding a folding fan, the very picture of a dashing gentleman, wrapped around a lovelydy¡ªit was Liang Zhan, the Young Master of Tianyuan Martial Arts Hall.

    The other young man, donned in a robe, equally presentable, was indeed Qin Feng.

    He had no women by his side and sat somewhat stiffly.

    "Here, Hundred Households Wang, I toast to you."

    Liang Zhan raised his cup in invitation.

    "Sure, sure, sure!"

    Hundred Households Wang drank heartily.

    "Hundred Households Wang."

    Liang Zhan put down his cup and asked with a smile, "What about that hunter from the countryside, how have you considered it?"

    "Mr. Liang is talking about whom?"

    Wang Zhi feigned ignorance.

    "..."

    Liang Zhan went silent for a moment, took out a twenty-tael Silver Ingot from his sleeve, and pped it over with a chuckle, "Hundred Households Wang, you really forget things so quickly, don''t you?"

    Wang Zhi nced out of the corner of his eye and gestured with his mouth, the silver disappearing from his hand in an instant.

    "Look at my memory!"

    He pped his forehead, "I remember now, is it that fellow named Qian from Su Family Vige? I''ll take care of him, don''t worry."

    "Mr. Wang, you''ve misremembered."

    Qin Feng, unable to hold back, suddenly stood up, "I''m talking about Chen Sansi from Yanbian Vige."

 Chapter 26 Going to See Your Brother

    Qin Feng could no longer hold himself back.

    He had recently obtained the qualification of True Inheritor and was on reasonably good terms with the Young Master, Liang Zhan.

    After learning that Chen Sansi had joined the army, he implored Liang Zhan to pull some strings and see if it was possible to kick him out of the barracks to deal with him easily.

    Butter, Chen Sansi was taken under the wing of Wang Zhi.

    Therefore, Qin Feng entrusted Liang Zhan to invite the Hundred Households officer to a banquet.

    Fatty Wang, who was indeed infamous for his greed and lechery, woulde whenever he was called, almost without fail.

    Everything was expected to go smoothly, but this invitation turned into three days of continuous entertainment.

    In the daytime,vish meals and fine wine were served at Eight Treasures Building, and beauties from Spring Pavilion kept thempany at night.

    Over these three days, more than twenty taels of silver vanished for nothing.

    Naturally, Qin Feng couldn''t afford such extravagance.

    The money was all provided by Liang Zhan.

    But this couldn''t go on either.

    It was time to make things clear.

    So, Qin Feng simplyid it all out.

    The moment Chen Sansi''s name was mentioned, the private room fell eerily silent.

    Wang Zhi did not rush to reply butnguidly savored his wine before pushing aside the women and standing up.

    He moved toward Qin Feng step by step, with a clear smirk on his lips, but no trace of warmth to be felt, "Ah, the Chen fellow~ I do seem to have such a person under me.

    "Come now, what''s the grudge between you two?"

    An instant ago, Hundred Households Wang had seemed like another dissolute bureaucrat, but at this moment, he exerted a tremendous pressure on Qin Feng.

    Subconsciously standing up to answer, he said, "Sir, my elder brother has gone missing, and I suspect..."

    "You suspect?"

    Wang Zhi red with his right eye, almost getting in Qin Feng''s face, "That means you have no evidence, right?"

    "No... I don''t,"

    Qin Feng admitted.

    But among the many viges around, the only person with the capability to hurt his brother was Chen Sansi.

    Hundred Households Wang suddenly changed his expression and startedughing at the gentleman, "Mr. Liang, look at your disciple, what a joker. His brother disappears, and he mes someone without proof¡ªisn''t this just making a fuss?"

    "Hundred Households Wang, I''m not making this up, he..."

    Qin Feng started to speak but then stopped mid-sentence.

    What could he say?

    That his brother wanted to abduct someone else''s wife first?

    He cast a pleading look at Liang Zhan.

    Thetter ignored him, going along with Fatty Wang''s words, "Hundred Households Wang has a point, I actually think it might be a misunderstanding as well?"

    "Young Master..."

    Qin Feng wanted to object but was silenced by a gesture from Liang Zhan.

    "Hundred Households Wang."

    Liang Zhan continued, "Let''s leave the matter here, and continue drinking. Later, we''ll call for a couple more top girls."

    "No need,"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Fatty Wang waved his hand, "These past few days I''ve been working with your Martial Arts Hall to search for the barbarians, we''ve already narrowed down the area, and I reckon we''ll find them tonight, so I need to go as well.

    "Otherwise, Households Commander Xiang may give me a hard time again, let''s continue another day.

    "As for your brother''s matter, I reckon it was probably those barbarians'' doing."

    He outstretched his stout palm and patted Qin Feng''s shoulder twice, "Once I''ve caught the barbarians, I promise to force the truth about your brother''s whereabouts from them."

    After the two pats, Qin Feng almost spat out blood.

    Before he could react, Wang Zhi grabbed his sword and pushed open the door to leave.

    "Young Master."

    Ignoring the pain in his shoulder, Qin Feng said, "What does Hundred Households Wang mean by this?"

    "What else could he mean?"

    The smile on Liang Zhan''s face faded, "He''s clearly telling us not to touch that kid; what the devil! Fatty Wang is well-known far and wide for his cunning, why would he suddenly take someone under his protection?"

    Qin Feng asked, "Young Master, what should I do?"

    Liang Zhan opened his folding fan and gently waved it, his voiceced with helplessness, "Don''t think of this fat man as merely a Sixth Rank officer; he has no small backing.

    "He hails from the Eight Camps, and rumors say, he used to be able to speak directly to Supervisor Sun. Even though he''s been relegated to the Households department, he probably still knows a few high-ranking officials.

    "Even I have to treat him politely.

    "It''s better not to provoke if avoidable.

    "So, let''s drop this matter here."

    "Stop?"

    Qin Feng''s brows furrowed as his voice uncontrobly rose, "Young Master!"

    "If I tell you to stop, you stop. Don''t you understand?"

    Liang Zhan mmed his folding fan down onto the table with a "snap," scolding without warning, "Hasn''t this young master already spent dozens of taels of silver on your behalf, isn''t that generous and righteous enough?"

    "..."

    Qin Feng lowered his head, not daring to speak again, but his fists tightened in the shadows.

    "Hehe~"

    Liang Zhan then turned and soothinglyughed, "Alright, Qin Feng, I know you and your brother were close, but isn''t Wang Zhi there to protect us? We''re untouchable, right?

    "As the saying goes, ''A gentleman can wait ten years to take revenge.''

    "After the assassin''s incidentst time, you were taken as a direct disciple by my father. Just cultivate diligently, and won''t you be able to take your revengeter?"

    Qin Feng remained silent.

    "Come on, sit down and join us."

    Liang Zhan looked out at the night sky, "After the hour of You today, the city will be under martialw. Households Commander Xiang personally ns to capture that barbarian, so you''d better not go out."

    "Thank you for your kind intentions, Young Master, but with such a great vendetta unavenged, I dare not indulge myself."

    Qin Feng understood that no matter what he said, the other party would no longer help, so he took his leave.

    As the hour of You approached, the sky gradually darkened.

    All the way, his thoughts were anything but calm.

    Could it really end like this?

    Or should he do as Liang Zhan suggested, diligently practice martial arts, and seek revengeter?

    Absolutely not.

    Fatty Wang''s protection of Chen Sansi showed that the boy''s talent was probably extraordinary.

    If he dyed, where would his advantagee from?

    Most importantly, how could he cultivate in peace with his revenge unfulfilled?

    Since they were three, they had lost their parents.

    It was his elder brother, Qin Xiong, who raised him, selling pancakes to make a living, andter, when life got too tough, they had no choice but to engage in usury and human trafficking.

    But his brother was a good man!

    Now, his brother had disappeared without a trace, neither alive nor dead.

    The only thing left was the golden lock his brother had given him when he was ten years old.

    Wait.

    Where was the golden lock?!

    Qin Feng reached for his neck only to find that the amulet he always wore close to his body had disappeared. How could it...

    Wang Zhi!

    He suddenly remembered Hundred Households Wang patting his shoulder a few times.

    This was too insulting!

    "Chen Sansi!"

    Qin Feng was consumed by rage.

    If nobody would help him, he would take his revenge by himself!

    With his mastery of Blood Refining, killing a novice who had just started learning martial arts should be a piece of cake.

    As for what would happen after, he could only bet that there wouldn''t be consequences.

    Qin Feng made up his mind.

    He hurried to pass through the inspection before the city gate closed, leaving the county seat and heading straight for his home in Yanbian Vige.

    The empty house no longer rang with the voice of his brother,ughing and ying drinking games, fueling the fire in his heart.

    Qin Feng searched through his belongings, pulled out a set of ck clothes to wear, and covered his face with a ck cloth.

    He sat down on a chair, cradling the Treasure Sword with both hands as he closed his eyes and concentrated.

    He was just waiting for the dead of night to slip out and kill.

    "Caw caw¡ª¡ª"

    Midnight.

    The night crows cawed.

    Qin Feng opened his bloodshot eyes.

    Just as he was about to take up his sword and leave the house, suddenly a ghostly voice came from outside.

    "Qin Feng."

    "Your brother sent me to take you to him!"

 Chapter 27 Brothers Reunited

    "Who?!"

    Qin Feng shivered.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    He immediately rushed outside, only to catch a glimpse of a dark shadow shing by at the end of the road.

    "Still daring to seek me out!"

    Qin Feng gathered his energy and sprinted furiously.

    But no matter how hard he tried, he couldn''t catch up to the shadow.

    "Qinggong, you can perform Qinggong too? Could it be you, Chen Sansi?!"

    Qin Feng barely managed to fall behind the shadow.

    The two, one in front and one behind, chased each other, leaving Yanbian Vige and heading straight towards Tiger Head Mountain.

    They reached Second Layer Mountain.

    The shadow shed again, burrowing into the dense forest andpletely disappearing.

    "ng¡ª"

    The long sword unsheathed, Qin Feng held the sword in one hand, cautiously stepping into the dense forest.

    The night sky was crystal clear, the moon bright, stars sparse.

    The ghastly white moonlight scattered across the earth, broken by the dense branches into mottled shadows and light.

    With every step Qin Feng took, rustling sounds emitted from the surrounding thicket, unclear whether they were caused by startled bugs and animals, or someone lurking in the shadows.

    He swung his sword forward in anger, cutting down swathes of nts to clear his view, but the shadow that had lured him out remained unseen.

    "Who exactly are you?"

    "Weren''t you to lead me to see my elder brother, where is he now?!"

    Finally, that deep, eerie voice rose again.

    "Your brother''s head is nearly crushed by you, and you still ask me?"

    What?

    Qin Feng was startled and looked down.

    Beneath his feet, embedded in the mud, was a stark white skull.

    Around the skull, scattered bones and pieces of clothingy around.

    From the remains of the clothing, it appeared they had been torn apart by wild beasts.

    This was...

    Qin Xiong''s clothing.

    How could he have forgotten?!

    "Brother!!!"

    "Swoosh¡ª"

    Qin Feng roared, his heart suddenly turning cold.

    A Wolf Teeth Arrow pierced his heart from behind, protruding from the front.

    Thud!

    Qin Feng knelt on one knee, the long sword nted into the earth for support, struggling with all his might not to fall, as blood gushed from his mouth and nose like a fountain.

    He had no strength left, nor the will to resist anymore; he merely gazed nkly at his elder brother''s remains.

    The moonlight, salt-like, illuminated them both, one alive, one a ghost, two real brothers.

    "Damn it!"

    "My heart is kind, I can''t bear to see this scene. Since your brotherly love is so deep, I''ll grant you both a reunion!"

    Chen Sansi emerged from the shadows.

    He mobilized his Qi-Blood into his arms, using the plum blossom spear technique powerfully, and pierced through Qin Feng''s heart, ending his life.

    From start to finish.

    Qin Feng had never managed to see his killer''s true face.

    Such is the terrifying nature of long-range weapons.

    If one can neither dodge nor withstand the blow, they are almost always incapacitated by a single strike.

    Clearly, mastery in Blood Refining was not enough to resist.

    Chen Sansi searched the body, finding ten taels of silver.

    "You''re indeed richer than your brother!"

    Besides that, there was a sword.

    Chen Sansi thought it over but decided not to take it.

    This sword, issued by Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, was too distinctive a feature and couldn''t be sold off.

    In order to prevent anyone from recognizing the arrow and spear wounds on Qin Feng''s body, he first pulled out the Wolf Teeth Arrow, then picked up the long sword, chopping the corpse wildly over a dozen times, ensuring that the wounds couldn''t be identified before he was satisfied.

    "Finally dealt with."

    Having eliminated a major worry, Chen Sansi feltforted.

    This trip, both his skills in tracking, stealth, and archery had improved significantly.

    [Skill: Archery (small achievement)]

    [Progress:(50/1000)]

    "Tracking and stealth breakthrough!"

    [Tracking and Stealth (small achievement)]

    [Progress:0/1000]

    [Utility: Night as Bright as Day, Insight Shocking, Light as a Feather, Concealing Breath and Hiding]

    On top of the original basis, two additional effects had emerged.

    Though it was night, Chen Sansi could see every minute movement as clearly as if it were day.

    Concealing Breath and Hiding, self-exnatory, needs no further description.

    With these two skills, Chen Sansi was truly an assassin who came and left without a trace.

    "It''s time to go back."

    Tonight, there was a bigmotion in the county city, unknown if it would spill over to the outside.

    Not daring to linger, he quickly retraced his steps under the cover of night.

    As he passed by Su Family Vige, Chen Sansi sharply noticed some activity in the woods.

    Highly vignt, he immediately climbed a tree, deploying his newly learned Concealing Breath Technique.

    Instantster, he felt as if he had merged with the tree; even the birds perched on the tree were not startled.

    Staggering footsteps came from the woods, resembling a drunkard who every few steps would crash to the ground breaking the undergrowth, creating a "crashing" noise.

    Finally.

    The source of the noise entered Chen Sansi''s field of vision.

    However, this was not a drunkard but a person gravely injured.

    The man who approached wasn''t tall, his clothes were tattered, and his body was covered in blood with over a dozen knife wounds deep enough to expose his bones; one could even see his pulsating organs.

    Sustaining such severe wounds yet still able to walk was nothing short of miraculous.

    "Where did hee from?"

    Chen Sansi noted the man''s attire¡ªearrings, and a braided beard, not the style of the local people.

    "A barbarian?"

    "That assassin?"

    "Weren''t there Lord Thousand Households Xiang Tingchun in personst night along with three hundred troops and countless disciples from the martial arts academy to guard? And he still managed to escape?"

    He didn''t act recklessly, but observed secretly.

    "Cough, cough, cough..."

    As the barbarian kept coughing up ck blood, he staggered and fell into the bushes, repeatedly trying to get up only to copse back to the ground. His state was clearly deteriorating fast, nearly at his end.

    There, hey on the ground, using his hands covered in sticky blood to dig under a rock, tremblingly scooping up the mud.

    It took great effort to carve out a small hole.

    Then, he drew a box from his bosom and buried it with all his remaining strength.

    "Is he hiding something?"

    Chen Sansi watched intently.

    "Cough, cough, cough..."

    After burying the item, the barbarian scrambled to cover the spot with grass and branches.

    By now, he was practically only breathing in and no longer out, on the brink of death, yet he still persisted in crawling forward to get as far away from the hiding spot as possible.

    After about ten meters, his body stiffened, and he moved no more.

    Chen Sansi waited in the tree for roughly ten minutes, confirming the man was truly dead, before leaping down to poke open the soil with his long spear and retrieve the hidden object.

    "What''s this?"

    Chen Sansi toyed with the palm-sized box, pondering.

    The fact that he strained hisst breath to hide it meant it must be extremely valuable.

    But the question remains.

    Why would an assassin carry treasures with him on a mission?

    Or perhaps.

    The barbarian''s purpose was to steal this item specifically from Po Yang County?

    "No, that''s not right,"

    Chen Sansi shook his head.

    There were still inconsistencies.

    Had hee to steal, the barbarian should not have lingered in the area after killing the County Magistrate, and during that time, also killed the master of Yunhe Martial Arts Hall.

    Moreover.

    What treasure could little Po Yang County possibly possess?

    Intelligence even less likely.

    With the incident escted to this level, even if it were intelligence, it would have been rendered useless; was there still a need to bury it?

    The whole affair had been strange from the start.

    Neither the government office nor the martial arts schools had mentioned searching for any item, only capturing the assassin.

    "Ahead!"

    "Quick!"

    "..."

    Suddenly, footsteps sounded not far off, swift and firm, clearly the pursuers had caught up.

    Chen Sansi couldn''t risk exposing his nocturnal activities, quickly restored the hole and ced a rock over it, then climbed back into the tree with the box.

    The ones who arrived weren''t from the government office or the garrison.

    It was people from a martial arts academy, and only three of them.

    A middle-aged man led two direct disciples.

    From their attire, they were from Zhao''s Martial Arts Academy.

    The leader was the master, Zhao Ben.

    "Master, just the one."

    "And he''s dead!"

    They discovered the barbarian''s corpse.

    Zhao Ben''s expression changed as he rushed over, searching the body, "Where''s the item?!"

    "Search!"

    "Yes!"

    The two disciples drew their swords and began scouring the area.

    Of course, they found nothing in the end.

    "Master, there''s nothing. I reckon it must have been taken by some of the others."

    "Damn! So close!"

    Zhao Ben''s fists whitened as he clenched them, it took a long while before he could suppress his rage, "Did you leak any information tonight?"

    "Master, rest assured. Besides the masters of the three major martial arts academies, only a few direct disciples and Lord Thousand Households knew that we were searching for an Immortal Treasure.

    "The rest of the ordinary disciples and the official soldiers from the garrison think we were simply capturing an assassin."

    "Good,"

    Zhao Ben warned, "This matter is critical to our hundred-year n. If any word leaks out, the consequences are unimaginable! Therefore, if any outsider learns even a fraction of information, they must be killed without hesitation!"

    "Go back. Also, carry the barbarian''s corpse back and cut it open. Don''t rule out the possibility that the item is inside him!"

    "Yes!"

    "..."

    Watching as the group departed,

    Chen Sansi took some time to absorb the overwhelming amount of information from the conversation.

    Immortal Treasure?

    They were searching for an Immortal Treasure?

    And Lord Thousand Households Xiang Tingchun was in on this too?

    And hell, they were so ruthless as to kill any outsider who came into contact with it?

    Chen Sansi weighed the box in his hand.

    "Well then, there''s no way I can let anyone know I''ve touched this thing."

    "It looks like..."

    "It''s mine now!"

 Chapter 28 The Box

    ```

    He hid until thetter half of the night.

    After confirming the surrounding area was safe, Chen Sansi blended into the darkness and returned home before dawn.

    Without disturbing Sister Lan, who was fast asleep, he quietly took out the box by the bedside and examined it carefully.

    On the surface, it appeared to be just an ordinary sandalwood box, devoid of any decorative patterns and utterly barren, save for a strangely shaped keyhole.

    They called this thing "Immortal Treasure."

    What did that mean?

    Could it possibly be a relic left behind by an immortal?

    Chen Sansi''s curiosity was intense.

    He didn''t have the key, so he tried to force the box open, but it wouldn''t budge.

    Effortlessly he could pull apart dual-stone crossbows and even muster his Qi-Blood, yet the box remained unyielding.

    In the end, it was still made of wood and could definitely be smashed open directly.

    But Chen Sansi was not foolish enough to actually do that.

    There could be some mechanism hidden inside, and brute force was likely to damage the "Immortal Treasure" within.

    Resigned, he could only put the item away for now, nning to take the opportunity to understand the box''s mechanism and what could be used to open itter.

    "Huff..."

    Chen Sansi exhaled deeply.

    This night had indeed been a busy one.

    But now that Qin Feng was eliminated and Qi-Blood was the first to be mastered, perhaps life would be a little morefortable after his uing promotion to small g and obtaining the Selected Point qualification?

    As these thoughts wandered through his mind, he used Gu Xin as a soft pillow, pressing her beneath him and driftedfortably into a deep sleep.

    The next day.

    Chen Sansi got up early and went to the military barracks.

    He hadn''t even entered when he overheard everyone in the camp discussingst night''s events.

    "You didn''t gost night, so you don''t know how chaotic the city was. I saw it all with my own eyes right next to it!"

    "Even Households Commander Xiang had to take action personally, working with the masters of Tianyuan, Tai Lei, and Zhao Martial Arts Halls to corner that barbarian assassin in an abandoned courtyard."

    "Just as they were about to capture the barbarian alive, a group of masked assassins emerged!"

    "Although their faces were covered, by the styles of martial arts they used, they seemed to be barbarians as well, and even more formidable ones at that, each skilled in Bone Training and above! One even managed to exchange blows with Households Commander Xiang."

    "They seriously injured the master of Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy and escorted the assassin out through the city gate."

    "Of course, they also lost more than half of their own men."

    "..."

    Listening to their discussions, Chen Sansi realized that the city must have experienced intense fightingst night.

    And something didn''t sound quite right.

    The assassin was rescued?

    Then how did he end up dead from severe injuries?

    Could it be that the masked assassins had alsoe for the "Immortal Treasure" and had turned on each other after leaving the city?

    The barbarian assassin fortuitously escaped but was mortally wounded and just happened to be encountered by him?

    If so, was it possible that the reason the box couldn''t be opened was that the key was in the hands of the other group they mentioned?

    This matter was truly veryplex.

    Arriving at the barracks, Chen Sansi saw that Wang Zhi hadn''t arrived yet, so he decided to practice for a while in the Martial Arts Arena.

    "Chen Sansi."

    He had just picked up the plum blossom spear when someone called out his name.

    Turning around, he saw it was Song Yan''s second uncle, Luo Dongquan, Hundred Households Luo.

    Hundred Households Luo gestured to him with a smile, "Come over here for a moment."

    "Master Luo."

    Chen Sansi nted his iron spear into the ground, standing his ground, "If you have something to say, say it here."

    "Alright."

    Luo Dongquan, unbothered, sped his hands behind his back, "I have a favor to ask of you."

    ```

    ```

    A hundred households officer having something to ask for?

    Chen Sansi didn''t overthink it and said, "Hundred Households Luo may speak freely, but I''m afraid I am of low status and might not be able to help much."

    "You have great talent, the best I have seen in all my years of practicing martial arts,"

    Luo Dongquan sighed, "My nephew, he can''tpete with you. But don''t get me wrong, I have no intention of making things difficult for you. If one is inferior in skills, one should concede."

    "I want to ask you to give up your opportunity for the Selected Point in the first half of next year to Yan''er, and you take part in the second half instead."

    "Of course, I wouldn''t ask you to do this for nothing,"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    He produced a silver note, "This is a silver note worth a hundred taels, which can help you buy plenty of Blood Replenishing Soup and Beast Meat to increase your cultivation speed. It''s just a dy of half a year, should be quite a good deal, right?"

    There are two Selected Points every year, one in the first half and one in the second half.

    Each Householdsmander can only send one person at most each time.

    On the surface, half a year''s dy doesn''t seem like much.

    But why doesn''t he let his own nephew dy for half a year?

    Only a fool would believe that.

    Chen Sansi wouldn''t dy his own advancement over such a small amount of silver, "Thank you, Hundred Households Luo, but I think there is no need for this. Song Yan has good talent; he will certainly have no problem in participating in the Selected Point in the second half of the year."

    Hundred Households Luo kept his smile: "Fine, business not done, courtesy remains. Since you are unwilling, let''s leave it at that. Don''t take today''s matter to heart¡­"

    "Old Luo, you''re quite a character!"

    A plump hand suddenly shed by, snatching the silver note directly.

    Wang Zhi appeared silently at some point, with a grin that could not be concealed, "You were nning to give this as a congrattions gift to Sansi, aren''t you? My, my, a hundred taels, you''re so generous? You really are the wealthiest!"

    "Damn it, Wang!"

    Luo Dongquan reached out to grab the silver note back.

    Wang Zhi, quick as lightning, kept backing away while pocketing the silver note, "Since you''ve given a gift, how can you take it back?

    "Or is old Luo not really giving a gift, are you trying to coerce and bribe him?"

    "Shall we inform Households Commander Xiang about this?"

    "You¡­"

    Luo Dongquan was speechless for a long while, eventually sneering and walking away.

    Chen Sansi watched, utterly dumbfounded.

    What skill Hundred Households Wang had, to make a hundred tales with just a few words!

    "What did old Luo want from you?"

    Wang Zhi spit after Luo Dongquan''s departing figure.

    Chen Sansi reported truthfully.

    "Such a crafty mind,"

    Wang Zhi scoffed, "Do you know why he wants you to participate in the second half of the year?

    "Rumor has it Supervisor Sun is getting on in years, and the first half of next year will be thest time he personally selects his direct disciples for the Selected Point.

    "Starting from the second half of the year, it will be someone else teaching!"

    Chen Sansi wasn''t too surprised.

    "Very well, try to avoid dealing with old Luo from now on,"

    Wang Zhi said, "Just wait here, Households Commander Xiang and County Magistrate Zhang have arrived. They''ll be blowing the assembly call soon to gather and inspect your batch."

    He began exining the next steps.

    Selected Point is usually chosen only from the newest recruited soldiers of that year.

    Only those who show talent in a short period of time imply high potential and are worth cultivating.

    In a while, Households Commander Xiang Tingchun will personally check the cultivation levels, then the County Government''s County Chief will confirm the time of enlistment and whether there are any instances of favoritism or fraud.

    Once verified, it will be reported up to the Liangzhou Governor''s Mansion.

    After that, the Governor Mansion will send a dedicated Selection Officerter on to personally confirm there''s no deceit.

    Only then will it be time to go to the Eight Camps in Liangzhou to participate in the true Selected Point to determine future status and position within the Eight Camps.

    "Buzz¡ª"

    Hundred Households Wang finished talking.

    The assembly call just then sounded.

    ```

 Chapter 29 Assessment

    The assembly call sounded.

    The new batch of soldiers gradually arrived and lined up in the Martial Arts Arena.

    Not long after,

    d in Lock Armor and with a saber at his waist, Xiang Tingchun appeared first, followed by a civil servant dressed in official robes.

    Xiang Tingchun''s face was expressionless as he directly made his way to the high tform.

    He surveyed the crowd and slowly spoke in a deep voice, "Those who have refined their Qi-Blood, step forward!"

    Out of thirty-eight men, only Chen Sansi took a step forward.

    A hint of surprise flickered across Xiang Tingchun''s usually unfathomable face, and he ordered, "Let a small g spar with him so I can take a look."

    "Xu Bin, step out!"

    Wang Zhi raised his hand to point and said, "Follow the rules, use only the Blood Cultivation Introduction level, but you are free to unleash any Cultivation Technique, and help Chen Sansi practice!"

    At the edge of the Martial Arts Arena, Xu Bin, who was unexpectedly chosen, was momentarily stunned but still stepped out.

    He looked at Chen Sansi with aplex expression.

    In these past several days, this fellow viger of his had been the center of attention.

    First, he was publicly fought over by several Lords Hundred Households.

    Then, he refined his Qi-Blood in a mere six days.

    Six days!

    He himself barely managed to pass the threshold to be a military soldier, and he couldn''t even remember how long it took him to refine his Qi-Blood!

    In any case, it took him years in the army to finally scrape together the rank of a small g.

    If this youngster performed well today, he''d likely be promoted directly to small g!

    Such limitless prospects.

    He...

    on the other hand, hadn''t shown a good face to the neer on his first day of enlistment.

    Even more unlucky, somehow he was chosen to be the one to assess the neer.

    "What are you dawdling for, begin."

    Xiang Tingchun urged, "Use the same level of Qi-Blood and go all out. This will also let me see if your martial arts as military officers have made any progress."

    "Old Xu."

    "They say this man is your fellow viger, make sure you don''t go easy on him."

    "..."

    A few g officers and Lords Hundred Households chimed in from the side.

    They had often heard about a prodigy arriving at the garrison and had been eager to assess his true skills.

    Xu Bin, as instructed, summoned a thread of his Qi-Blood.

    The amount of Qi-Blood could be controlled.

    Blood Cultivation Introduction was one thread, Mastery was two, and small achievement meant it spread throughout the limbs.

    Maintaining only one thread of Qi-Blood was the equivalent of suppressing one''s level to Introduction.

    However, it was difficult to restrain the saber technique that had been umted over many years.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    In theory, if the two were to fight, he would have an absolute advantage.

    Even so, Xu Bin felt somewhat nervous.

    Lord Thousand Households was personally watching the bout, having made his expectations clear.

    It meant if he lost to a neer in front of everyone, his prospects would be essentially ruined.

    On the contrary, if he could demonstrate some fierce moves and catch Lord Thousand Households'' eye...

    His ambition since childhood had been to earn military achievements on the battlefield someday, but being born in Po Yang County, he never even had the chance to face the enemy.

    Lacking cultivation resources, stuck in the Blood Refining Realm for so many years, he was almost without hope of advancement.

    Today, however, was an opportunity.

    Both were fighting for their own futures; he wasn''t willing to sacrifice his for the sake of helping another.

    So, there was absolutely no chance of him going easy.

    He hoped that this younger brother, introduced by his father, would not me him.

    "Sansi, in case I injure you, don''t me me."

    Xu Bin drew his saber from its sheath, the three-foot-long de emitting a chill in the zing sun.

    "Xu g Officer, pleasee at me," said Chen Sansi, bracing himself with his spear raised.

    Ever since he started practicing martial arts, he hadn''t truly sparred with anyone.

    This opportunity was also a good chance to see what level he was at.

    "Good, watch the saber!"

    Xu Bin suddenly made his move.

    His body slightly bent, he dragged his saber as he moved, his gaze fierce like a ravenous wolf finally seeing flesh after days of hunger. In just two breaths, he reached the young man''s side and his Yan Ling saber shed horizontally.

    At the same time, a dot of cold light appeared in front.

    In the blink of an eye, this cold light became the gun tip, rapidly erging in Xu Bin''s pupils.

    Theter man arrives before one who set off earlier,

    the saber is short, the spear long, the way of the long weapon!

    "What a fast spear!"

    Xu Bin dared not advance further, half a step more and he wouldn''t strike the opponent, but likely be pierced first!

    He swiftly halted his steps, attempting to use his saber to break the spear shaft made of White Wax Wood.

    Chen Sansi clearly wouldn''t give him this chance, retracting his spear by three inches, uniting waist and horse, mobilizing his Qi-Blood to his right arm and, with a "blocking and catching" move, shed the spear tip against the saber edge.

    "ng¡ª¡ª"

    A crisp sound of weapon impact rang out.

    The Yanling Saber buzzed incessantly.

    The Mei Hua Iron Spear was even more incessantly trembling.

    Both men simultaneously retreated several steps.

    But for a long weapon, distance opened up means advantage!

    Xu Bin had barely steadied himself when the Mei Hua Iron Spear stabbed at him again, forcing him to block with his saber. Fortunately, after many years of martial arts training, he had no problem with such intensity, able to parry it.

    But the basic spear technique of a military soldier is something everyone has practiced.

    Why were Chen Sansi''s spear techniques so unusually fast and fierce, unlike ordinary people?

    And then there was Qi-Blood.

    Although it was just a thread of Qi-Blood, he had concentrated on refining it for years, and it should be somewhat stronger by all ount.

    Yet, facing that direct strike, he actually had no advantage in terms of power, barely gaining a slight upper hand by relying solely on his experience with saber techniques.

    How odd and baffling!

    Xu Bin felt shame, worried about ruining the impression he made in the eyes of Lord Thousand Households.

    He wielded the saber in his hand with increasing aggression, aiming each blow at vital points, trying to exhaust his opponent''s Qi-Blood this way.

    "ng, ng, ng, ng!"

    The sound of metal shing continuously rose, dust billowed in the Martial Arts Arena.

    Chen Sansi kept retreating to maintain the distance advantage of the long weapon.

    "Damn it."

    Wang Zhi couldn''t help but curse.

    He had thought that it was Xu Bin who had introduced Chen Sansi to the military camp, so he had deliberately called him out. Was this guy actually ying for real?

    He''d wait and see how this blind fool would be dealt withter.

    Meanwhile, Xiang Tingchun''s eyes narrowed slightly, watching with great interest.

    "Well done!"

    The soldiers watching also began to cheer.

    "ng¡ª"

    Another sh of metal on metal.

    Chen Sansi narrowly avoided being hit. At a critical moment, he held his breath, twirled a spear flower, and pushed the metaphorical fierce wolf, which hade close to him, back to a distance of seven steps.

    Xu Bin was indeed a veteran.

    After several bouts, his arms grew numb, his shoulders ached, and his body and face were covered in sweat.

    Yet his Qi-Blood was still plentiful.

    He could go on.

    Rarer were such sparring opportunities, and his skill with the spear was improving rapidly. He treasured this chance.

    "Come on!"

    Xu Bin swung his saber, one stroke after another, his eyes reddening.

    This was already the eighth round, and he still couldn''t defeat his opponent!

    Since he had already offended him, he might as well do it thoroughly.

    No matter what, he could not be a worthless person in the eyes of Thousand Households!

    He spared no effort, the Yanling Saber tearing through the air as if he were a raging wolf, using every possible means to rip into his prey.

    He nned to fight hard and fast to speed up the wear on his opponent, looking for a weakness.

    However, as time went on.

    Xu Bin gradually noticed something was wrong.

    On the surface, the young spearman seemed to be on the defense all the time.

    But his Qi-Blood never waned!

    Instead, it was his own Qi-Blood that kept being expended, close to bottoming out.

    "How can this be?!"

    A look of astonishment spread across Xu Bin''s face.

    Impossible!

    This kid had just begun cultivating Qi-Blood; he must run out after another ten rounds!

    With that thought, he became even more violent in his saber techniques.

    But the reality was entirely different from what he had imagined.

    After another ten rounds, he had used up most of his Qi-Blood, yet Chen Sansi still hadn''t lost!

    This young man, looking out of breath and nearly done for, always managed to persist at critical moments, disying terrifying endurance.

    "ng!"

    Xu Bin, due to his depleted Qi-Blood, slowed in speed and weakened in strength.

    It was then that the tide turned, and the Mei Hua Iron Spear shiftedpletely from defense to offense!

    A parry, a grab, a stab¡ªevery key point in the spear technique was executed by Chen Sansi with precision and ferocity,bined with Qi-Blood, like a sudden downpour of a violent storm, instantly upon him. A moment''s inattention could lead to a catastrophic injury.

    Now it was Xu Bin''s turn to be drenched in sweat.

    His Qi-Blood gradually dried up in the fierce fight, his hand holding the saber even began to cramp. He forgot about attacking, or to put it more urately, he no longer had the opportunity. All he could see was the constant flickering of cold light and fluttering red tassels.

    This was impossible.

    Chen Sansi had only recently cultivated Qi-Blood; how could his endurance be so extraordinary?

    There were several moments when Xu Bin almost tapped into his other Qi-Blood reserves, revealing the strength of Blood Refining Mastery, but he knew he had lost.

    Five years!

    Five years of martial arts practice, and he couldn''tpete with someone who had half a month''s of training!

    "ng¡ª"

    In a daze, his Yanling Saber was picked off, and the sharp triangr gun tip followed close behind, pressing against his throat.

    "Xu g Officer, I yield!"

 Chapter 30 Flag Officer

    Chen Sansi was sweating profusely, even his eyes were soaked in sweat, and his physical strength was nearing exhaustion, yet he felt like he could still push on a bit longer if he gritted his teeth.

    Perhaps this was the chemical reaction produced by pairing amazing endurance with the Hao Ran Breathing Skill?

    However, his victory was not easy.

    After all, Xu Bin was a military officer who had practiced Martial Arts for years and had achieved a small aplishment in Blood Refining.

    This battle had been quite helpful to him.

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Spear Technique for Military Soldiers (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (52/500)]

    [Utility: Gun Movement Swift, Amazing Endurance]

    He personally experienced the effects of these two skill descriptors.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    He estimated that any peer within seven steps would be struck down before they had a chance to draw their sword!

    His spear technique was not only enduring but also swift.

    Both longsting and fierce!

    "Good!"

    Atop the high tform, Xiang Tingchun loudly eximed in approval, his eyes brimming with gratification.

    The watching soldiers burst into apuse and cheers.

    "Fierce!"

    Zhu Tong''s voice was the loudest.

    Xu Wencai stretched his neck, equally energized by the sight: "I see a hidden king''s aura in Brother Chen, he is destined for greatness!"

    "What''s the use of your looking," Zhu Tong cursed. "You''d better focus on yourself. It''s been ten days, and you still haven''t grasped a single Pile Work. You''re just waiting to be sent out to repair city walls!"

    "..."

    "Brother Chen is truly formidable!"

    Song Yan couldn''t help but express his admiration.

    Xu Bin''s heart felt as dead as ashes.

    He had lost to a novice in front of hundreds of people.

    His chances of advancing in his military career from now on were pretty much over.

    Not only that, this duel had offended Chen Sansi.

    Previously, he could disregard him and not show a good face, and that was that.

    This time, he had been ruthless and had shown no mercy. If he had incurred resentment, once Chen Sansi rose to a high position, wouldn''t it be easy for him to make life difficult for him?

    "You won."

    Xu Bin picked up his knife and dejectedly left the field.

    Chen Sansi didn''t even have the chance to speak.

    Xiang Tingchun on the high tform was very satisfied with thispetition. He looked towards the apanying civil servant:

    "Before Wang Zhi spoke with me, I did not believe him, but now it seems like our Po Yang Thousand Households have really produced a potential general!

    "County Magistrate Zhang, no issues, right?"

    "No issues."

    County Magistrate Zhang had already checked the military register: "I will report it to the Liangzhou Governor''s Mansion after I return, and make clear the qualifications for Selected Point of this Chen Sansi."

    The matter was originally expected to be handled by the county prefect himself.

    However, since the prefect had died and a new one had not yet been assigned, it was temporarily entrusted to the County Chief.

    "Hmm."

    Xiang Tingchun nodded, signaling Chen Sansi to step down and continue the examination of the other new recruits.

    "How many of them have cultivated Qi-Blood in ten days, and how many have learned the spear technique?"

    Out of thirty-eight people, six stood out.

    Xiang Tingchunmanded: "Pair up in twos, and show me a fight."

    "Yes!"

    The six responded.

    Before an hour had passed, thepetition concluded, and one could basically tell how each person had performed.

    "Song Yan is good, and in a few days, he should be able to cultivate Qi-Blood."

    Xiang Tingchun mused: "The qualifications for Selected Point in the second half of next year should not be an issue.

    "You''re named Zhu... Zhu Tong? You''re also not bad!

    "Having seven military soldiers among this batch is the highest turnout in the history of Po Yang County.

    "Alright, you may also step down for now.

    "The rest, directly show me your Pile Work."

    Thirty-two people performed Pile Work.

    About fifteen or sixteen of them hadn''t even mastered Pile Work.

    The most absurd was a middle-aged man with a goatee who did not know a single move!

    This sight made Xiang Tingchun frown deeply, losing the patience to continue watching.

    "That will do, the assessment is over.

    "Chen Sansi!"

    "Present!" Chen Sansi answered.

    "From this day forth, you are promoted to g officer, with all the due treatment of the position, in addition to being equipped with a first-ss warhorse!"

    Xiang Tingchun looked to the side: "Wang Zhi, he''s your recruit, so he will be under yourmand from now on. You have a position for him, right?"

    "Yes, yes, yes."

    Wang Zhi hurriedly answered, "There are quite a few empty spots."

    "..."

    Xiang Tingchun continued, "For the others, fill in the vacancies under each Households Commander; if they achieve a breakthrough in their cultivation or earn military exploits in the future, promote them then!"

    After overseeing the evaluation, he left in a hurry.

    Leaving behind the various Households Commanders to deal with the subsequent trivial matters.

    First was to ssify the ranks of the soldiers, and then decide who they would report to.

    When the Selection Officerse to pick people each year, it''s also the time for those from above to investigate the issue of phantom soldiers.

    In recent years, the scrutiny has be stricter, and the phenomenon of phantom soldiers has decreased a lot, but it has notpletely vanished.

    A Thousand Households should have a fullplement of about 1120 people.

    Po Yang County reported about one thousand people.

    In reality, there were only a little more than nine hundred people.

    This meant that there were nearly a hundred vacancies.

    Thirty-something people, as long as they looked presentable enough to pass the inspection, were all picked by the military officers to fill the gaps.

    Chen Sansi also didn''t have a fullplement under him; he had seven people.

    There was Zhu Tong, who actively mored toe over, four fellow vigers, and two who were sent to the army as a punishment.

    Soon, only two or three old, weak, sick, and disabled remained unwanted by anyone, belonging to the kind that even a beggar hired temporarily from the street would look better.

    "You don''t even know how to stand in a horse stance? Go build the city wall in the neighboring county!"

    "No, no, no, my lord, I can do odd jobs!"

    "Odd jobs, can you feed a horse?"

    "I can learn!"

    "Learn, who has the time to teach you? Cut the nonsense, drag him away!"

    Xu Wencai was one of those who nobody wanted.

    "Brother Chen!"

    Seeing that he was about to be taken away, Xu Wencai, as if seeing a lifeline, rushed over and clutched Chen Sansi''s arm desperately, "Do you have a shortage of people under you, let me follow you, let me follow you!"

    "Don''te and bring us misfortune!"

    Zhu Tong said with extreme disdain, "When we go into battle, you won''t even know what to do; you''ll just drag us down to our deaths!"

    "Who says I can''t do anything?"

    Xu Wencai said, full of earnest promises, "Brother Chen, I, Xu Wencai, have a broad knowledge of astronomy and geography, I am good at arranging troops and managing affairs. Other than being too old to learn martial arts, I can do everything else. Take me in, and I assure you it will be worth it!"

    "Enough talk."

    Households Commander Liu gave a signal, and two soldiers approached to restrain Xu Wencai.

    At that moment, Chen Sansi cupped his fist and said, "Households Commander Liu, please give this man to me."

    "Are you sure?"

    Households Commander Liu looked puzzled, "Aren''t you afraid of wasting a spot under you? Think it over carefully."

    The issue of phantom soldiers had nothing to do with Chen Sansi, the neer.

    Which is to say, he didn''t need to pad the numbers, and naturally, the stronger thebatants under him, the better.

    "No problem,"

    Chen Sansi insisted, "I''ll make him feed the horses for meter."

    "Fine then,"

    Households Commander Liu didn''t say much, "As you wish, if you regret it, just let me know."

    "Phew..."

    Relieved from having to go work on building the city wall, Xu Wencai let out a long sigh of relief, "Brother Chen, you really have vision!"

    "He''s just too kind-hearted and got fooled by you!" Zhu Tong cursed.

    About half an hourter, the soldiers were mostly allocated.

    The one in charge of the armory handed Chen Sansi a few slips, telling him that he could use them to collect resources.

    There was Blood Replenishing Soup, Weapons Slips, and also a horse.

    "I still owe Xu g Officer a bow,"

    Chen Sansi wasn''t one to shirk debts, but he couldn''t find Xu Bin in the crowd at the moment: "Never mind, let''s go check out the horse first."

    A horse.

    It was an extremely valuable strategic resource.

    Not all g officers had one.

    The entire Po Yang Thousand Households had less than thirty horses in total.

    "Chen g Officer, this horse of yours isn''t an ordinary one!"

    The head of the armory said with a grin, "It''s a top-grade Baihu that Lord Thousand Households took great effort to acquire from the Prefecture City. There were only two in total, and he was willing to spare you one, a clear sign of how much he values you. Chen g Officer, you have a boundless future ahead!"

    He ordered the coachman to lead a fine horse out of the stables.

    This horse was pure white all over, with strong muscles and a well-proportioned physique; as the wind blew, its mane danced in the breeze, resembling clouds in the sky.

    "Would you like to give it a try, Chen g Officer? Be careful, though,"

    the head of the armory reminded, "This horse has a fiery temperament."

    "I like them fiery."

    Chen Sansi mounted the horse.

    [Skill: Horse Control (Uninitiated)]

    [Progress: (0/100)]

    [Utility: None for now]

 Chapter 31 Xiang Tingchun

    "Horse control also counts?"

    "Whinny¡ª"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Before Chen Sansi had time to think carefully.

    The White Swan Horse suddenly neighed to the sky and bolted out of the stables uncontrobly, bucking wildly, trying to throw off the person on its back.

    "Damn!"

    Chen Sansi almost flew offpletely, hastily grabbing the reins with both hands, and mping his legs tightly around the horse''s belly while stepping on the stirrups.

    It seemed easy for others to ride a horse, but one only knew how difficult it actually was after trying it themselves.

    Especially with a violent and untamed horse, one could easily lose their life if they weren''t careful!

    "Whinny¡ª"

    The White Swan Horse neighed as it charged haphazardly.

    Sitting atop, Chen Sansi only felt the gale piercing his ears, the scenery moving rapidly backward, and with the horse''s resistance, it was like riding a roller coaster without any safety harness.

    "Good beast!"

    He simply hugged the horse''s neck, trying to subdue it with pure brute force.

    Man and horse were locked in a standoff for an hour, with neither gaining the upper hand.

    It wasn''t until both were exhausted that a temporary truce was called.

    [Skill: Horse Control (Not Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (35/100)]

    [Utility: None]

    "Are you a mare?"

    Chen Sansi leaned over to check closely.

    His understanding of horses was limited, but he knew that mares were generally smaller; this one, however, was clearly an anomaly, incredibly strong.

    "Ha ha ha ha ha!"

    Heartyughter came from behind.

    Chen Sansi turned around to see it was Xiang Tingchun.

    Dressed in in clothes and without his armor, Xiang Tingchun had a more amiable look on his face, yet he still exuded an air of authority.

    A Lord Thousand Households holds a fifth-rank official position.

    A fifth rank in Po Yang County is unparalleled.

    Not just in terms of official ranking but also in cultivation and power.

    "Lord Thousand Households."

    Chen Sansi greeted with a fist and palm salute.

    "How goes it, that horse isn''t easy to tame, is it?"

    Xiang Tingchun teased, "It''s supposed to be difficult. If this horse wasn''t so fiery and asionally harmful to people, they wouldn''t have been willing to give it to me, and I certainly wouldn''t have thought of giving it to you. Whether you can tame it or not depends on your own ability."

    The Lord Thousand Households hadn''te specifically to see him.

    Chen Sansi noticed that not far away, a coachman was leading out another White Horse, likely the one prepared for the Lord Thousand Households'' trip, and they had just coincidentally met here.

    "Do well, and if you need anything, juste to me."

    After speaking, Xiang Tingchun mounted his horse.

    His horse was very well-behaved.

    "Where is he going?"

    Chen Sansi mused to himself, "Did they find the key to unlock the Immortal Treasurest night, and were all those masked people caught? Was Luo Dongquan also there?"

    Before leaving the horse grounds, he saw another ck Horse appear, matching pace with the White Horse.

    The man on the horse was Luo Dongquan.

    "Is he involved with the Immortal Treasure as well?"

    These people were clearly keeping secrets from the court.

    His curiosity grew about what exactly was inside the box.

    ...

    "Luo, stop bringing up Selected Point,"

    Xiang Tingchun said firmly, "At a time when the Great Sheng Courtcks manpower, continuing these internal conflicts would be disgraceful."

    "Lord."

    Luo Dongquan looked reluctant, "Next year''s first half is thest Supervisor Selected Point."

    "So what?"

    Xiang Tingchun pulled the reins, "You need to understand something, the Supervisor''s power is too great and, coupled with his advanced age, His Majesty has long wanted him to step down.

    "Joining the Eight Camps at this time may not be a good thing.

    "His Majesty has been looking for neers these years, wanting to reshuffle the Northern Territory. It''s very likely that the Eight Camps will be disbanded and reassigned to every corner of thend¡ªeast, west, south, and north.

    "At this critical juncture, if someone can distinguish themselves, they might very well rise to a high position under the future new Supervisor."

    Luo Dongquan listened, utterly engrossed: "That''s why Your Lordship ns to cooperate with the Martial Arts Hall to search for the so-called ''Immortal Treasure,'' but does such a divine item, that can rapidly enhance one''s cultivation, truly exist in this world?"

    "Seeing how excited those old fools at the hall are, it doesn''t seem fake. I''m not sure where those barbarians acquired such treasure.

    "No wonder their raids have be more frequent sincest year."

    Xiang Tingchun paused and then continued, "You must remember, our main goal isn''t the Immortal Treasure. Those fools, do they really think they can hide such a thing, if it does exist? The most important thing is to take this opportunity to make those Martial Arts Halls and the rich people in the county bleed some money, to prepare for next spring."

    "My Lord, do you really n to go beyond the Great Wall and make a move against the Yuwen Tribe''s branch?"

    Luo Dongquan''s expression grew solemn: "The barbarians living near the Xi River have at least two thousand five hundred fighters. We only have a total of nine hundred men, and we also need to report to the Ministry of War, only after their approval can we dispatch troops."

    "That''s why I need war horses, crossbows, provisions, medical herbs, in other words, I need silver!"

    During their conversation.

    The two arrived in the fields.

    Xiang Tingchun raised his riding crop, pointing at the vast farnd: "Do you see? Thisnd should all belong to our Great Sheng, but what happened? Seven or eight parts out of ten now belong to the Martial Arts Halls and the local gentry as private property!

    "Now that wars are non-stop, when we need money, they aren''t willing to contribute a single copper!

    "The matter of the Immortal Treasure happens to be a good scare tactic to subdue them.

    "With money and strength, once we achieve an unrivaled feat, there will be better opportunities for us in the future, why be confined to the Eight Camps?

    "Old Luo, how long have you been with me?"

    Luo Dongquan nodded: "Come winter, it will be exactly twenty-one years."

    Xiang Tingchun spoke gravely: "In all of Po Yang, I trust you the most. That''s why I''ve confided in you alone about this matter and hope you can lend your full support. If we seed, whatever position I attain in the future, you will hold the same."

    "Lord Thousand Households, rest assured."

    Luo Dongquan bowed with sped hands: "Your humble servant is willing to walk through fire and water for the Lord, and will not shy away from death!"

    "Let''s go, talk to those old fellows at the Martial Arts Hall."

    The two, riding their horses, entered the city and made their way straight to Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy.

    Liang Zhan greeted them at the entrance: "My father and several uncles have long prepared a feast, waiting for both lords. Pleasee in!"

    After weing the guests.

    Liang Zhan did not hurry inside but waited for a Martial Arts Academy Disciple to arrive. He asked, "Have you found him?"

    "To answer Young Master, no."

    The disciple replied, "Nobody was seen at the residences of the brothers in the city, nor at the old home in Yanbian Vige. When asked around, everyone said they haven''t seen Qin Feng."

    "Disappeared?"

    Liang Zhan tapped the palm of his hand with his folding fan: "Eight out of ten, that soldier surnamed Chen killed him."

    "Then Young Master, what should we do?" The disciple, who was close to Qin Feng, felt heavy-hearted.

    Liang Zhan said coldly, "What else can we do? We don''t have any evidence. If he''s dead, he''s dead. Do you expect me to give you a sword so you can go to the army camp to seek revenge?"

    The disciple fell silent.

    Liang Zhan sneered.

    Qin Feng was good, having joined their Martial Arts Hall for several years, hardworking and loyal.

    Recently, by chance, he overheard his secret conversation with his father. Seeing how tight-lipped thed usually was, he had not killed him but instead took him on as a Direct Disciple.

    But the guy was too stubborn and insisted on courting death.

    He''d advised and helped him.

    To Liang Zhan, Qin Feng''s life was worth only those few dozen taels of silver.

    Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy wasn''tcking other Direct Disciples, and Liang Zhan wasn''t foolish enough to take a risk to avenge him.

    "This Brother Chen is quite interesting, indeed!"

    "After all, Qin Feng mastered Blood Refining, yet they say he was killed just like that."

    "Such talent, I must make sure to befriend him after getting through this busy period."

    "Last night¡­ also happened to be the time when the barbarians escaped from the city, how coincidental."

    Liang Zhan narrowed his eyes, thoughtful.

 Chapter 32 Linglong Jade Box

    Military Camp.

    Chen Sansi and his people had familiarized themselves with everything.

    Starting tomorrow, they were to begin their official "work."

    As for the job content.

    Wang Zhi was not around, no one knew where he had gone, but Household Commander Liu came over and exined everything to him in great detail.

    The ny-some people under Hundred Households Wang were mainly responsible for the "Seven Parts Farming, Three Parts Garrison" aspect of garrison duty.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    In the morning, they had to be at the military camp, practicing battle formations as a group. Military soldiers needed to participate in this before being promoted. In the afternoon, they would go to the Great Wall to keep watch and might also be sent to patrol the county town.

    As for the garrison troops, they had half a day of practice and half a day of work.

    Only military officers had more freedom.

    Most of their time could be spent on cultivation.

    "When the beacon fires rise, the horns sound."

    Households Commander Liu pointed to the northern sky: "If you see ck smoke rising, it means the barbarian tribes are invading, and everyone needs to assemble at the first notice. However, it''s been many years since we''ve seen beacon smoke rise up in this ce.

    "Also, do you not have a ce to live yet?"

    Chen Sansi nodded: "When I joined the army, the manager told me there were no spare houses."

    "There''s no room for ordinary soldiers, but there are a few houses for military officers. Come with me."

    Households Commander Liu led the way.

    In the military settlement, the vast majority of houses were as simple as those in Yanbian Vige, mainly made of mud bricks.

    However, walking two miles west to where the military officers lived, everything suddenly looked new. All were standalone courtyards made of blue bricks and solid wood,rge and small, divided ording to rank.

    "This is a house only a Hundred Households can live in, right?"

    Stopping in front of a two-entry courtyard, Chen Sansi said: "It doesn''t seem appropriate for a small g like me, does it?"

    "What''s inappropriate? Who''s to say you won''t be a Hundred Households before long?"

    Households Commander Liu said: "Besides, it''s empty anyway, and Lord Thousand Households isn''t going to care. Even if he finds out, he''ll just turn a blind eye."

    "Alright."

    Chen Sansi understood it was a favor being given to him and didn''t turn it down.

    Firstly, running back and forth between the military camp and Yanbian Vige every day was not only inconvenient but also a waste of precious time.

    Secondly, his family''s living conditions were truly humble, so moving to a better house would make life morefortable for Sister Lan.

    Using a cart borrowed from the military camp for transporting grain and fodder, Chen Sansi went back to Yanbian Vige to move.

    "Shitou, you really became an officer?!"

    "For sure, he''s even moving with a horse and cart."

    "Once you climb up the ranks, you won''t bother with us anymore!"

    "What Lai Zi said this time might actually happen."

    "¡­"

    When Chen Sansi had just brought the cart into the vige, the vigers were happy to watch the excitement, but gradually, the smiles disappeared from their faces.

    Bing an official.

    It meant that from then on, they were no longer the same kind of people.

    "Uncles and aunties are joking; I''m just a small g without even a rank. How am I an official?"

    Chen Sansi didn''t know what else to say.

    There wasn''t much to move from his home, just a few quilts and some pots and pans, making the cart seem rather superfluous.

    "This house is quite nice indeed."

    Arriving at the new house, Gu Xin was also very pleased and busily started to tidy up.

    Chen Sansi was not idle; after finishing thest two pounds of braised bear meat at home, he started practicing spear technique right there in the yard.

    After bringing out the Qi-Blood.

    The effect of the bear meat was nowhere near as great as before.

    It was only equivalent to eating ordinary livestock before he had cultivated Qi-Blood.

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Spear Technique (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (72/500)]

    [Utility: Gun Movement Swift, Amazing Endurance]

    An afternoon only increased the progress by twenty points.

    "It looks like I still need to buy things like bear heart for proper nourishment."

    "And medicinal soups!"

    As a g officer, Chen Sansi could receive a bowl of Blood Replenishing Soup every three days, but he didn''t know how effective it would be.

    He looked up at the sky and realized it was already dusk.

    By this time, the people in the pharmacy should have stopped decocting medicines.

    With nothing else to do, he sat down and flipped through a book for a while.

    It was still the "Dasheng Book" from before.

    Reading about the current Emperor''s great grandfather, it mentioned that he was particrly fond of designing things and had invented numerous ingenious devices, including a wooden box specifically for the transmission of intelligence, named the Linglong Jade Box.

    This box contained mechanisms and had to be opened with a special Jade Key. Otherwise, it would burn from the inside out, destroying the intelligence.

    However, the box was lost after the Emperor died.

    "Isn''t this the box in my hands?"

    Chen Sansi felt relieved that he hadn''t destroyed it with brute force, otherwise he would have truly lost a treasure.

    [Skill: Reading (small achievement)]

    [Progress: (51/800)]

    [Utility: Quick-witted, spirit refreshed, photographic memory]

    ¡­

    The next day.

    Chen Sansi finally didn''t have to travel far. After breakfast, he took a leisurely walk to the barracks, first practicing archery for a while, then practicing spear technique.

    When he estimated that the time was about right, he went to look for Xu Bin.

    It was also a twist of fate that Xu Bin was under Wang Zhi''smand as well, but after several rounds of searching, he didn''t see him and had to ask other g officers.

    "Old Xu? Yesterday afternoon, I saw Hundred Households Wang beat him up, and then he disappeared."

    "Hundred Households Wang?"

    Chen Sansi was taken aback.

    He realized something.

    When the sparring happened yesterday, it was very possible that Hundred Households Wang chose Xu Bin hoping he would throw the match.

    "There''s no need for that," he said.

    Chen Sansi was somewhat speechless.

    If he truly had thrown the match, it would have been of no benefit to either of them.

    He inquired about Xu Bin''s residence and then went to find him.

    ¡­

    "Bin, have you lost your mind?"

    Today, Old Xu hade from the town to bring a stewing hen for his pregnant daughter-inw, and as soon as he entered, he saw the huge palm print on his son''s face.

    Usually, Xu Bin would go to the barracks to practice Martial Arts early in the morning, but today he hadn''t moved even though it was near noon.

    He knew right away that something had happened.

    After some pressing enquiries, he finally understood the whole story.

    "Little Stone is our fellow viger, and if he makes a name for himself in the future, it would only benefit you! How could you hit him with all your might? You deserve to be beaten, deserve it indeed!"

    Xu Bin kept his head down, saying nothing.

    In fact, from the moment he was chosen for the assessment, he was stuck in a dilemma.

    If he had thrown the match, wouldn''t Lord Thousand Households have seen through it?

    Not throwing the match would offend Hundred Households Wang.

    The only good oue was to be treated with respect by the Lord Thousand Households.

    The result was obvious; he ended up with the worst possible oue.

    Afterwards, Wang Zhi found some pretext to p him and demanded twenty taels of silver, threatening to beat him up every time he saw him if he didn''t pay.

    All of his military pay went into practicing Martial Arts, and with his daily expenses, he had nothing left. Where would he find twenty taels of silver?

    "Go find Little Stone," urged Old Xu. "Hurry up, apologize to Little Stone, and ask him to smooth things over for you!"

    "Dad, it''s useless," Xu Bin said without any sense of hope.

    During the sparring match, he had gone all out to the point of killing.

    With swords and knives being blind, one could easily end up bleeding for real.

    If the other party simply didn''t make things difficult for him in the future, that would already be a mercy. How could he expect him to speak on his behalf?

    "Bang bang bang¡ª"

    The sound of knocking interrupted the father and son''s conversation.

    Soon after, a warm and amiable voice could be heard.

    "Is Brother Bin home? It''s me, Chen Sansi."

 Chapter 33 Witch God Sect

    After inquiring, Chen Sansi learned that he lived very close to Xu Bin, only about a five-minute walk away.

    He knocked on the door and announced his identity, and soon a young woman opened the door.

    Chen Sansi noticed the slight bulge in her abdomen, "Is this Xu Bin''s home?"

    "Yes."

    The woman hurriedly called someone out.

    There came Xu Bin, sporting a handprint on his face, and greeted awkwardly, "Chen, Chen g Officer."

    He remembered that not long ago, he had requested the other to address him by his official title.

    How long had it been, and now everyone held the same rank?

    "I really don''t consider myself as an officer; just calling me ''Rock'' or by my name will do."

    Chen Sansi smiled and pulled out a slip from his sleeve, "This is for you."

    "This is¡­"

    Upon seeing it was a weapons slip from the arsenal, Xu Bin remembered he indeed had loaned out a bow and arrows before.

    "What are you staring at? Apologize to Little Rock!"

    Old Xu came running out and kicked Xu Bin on the buttocks.

    Xu Bin''s face turned red immediately.

    In the military camp, he never resorted to giving gifts or ttering others; he always proved himself through hard work.

    "Bin, hurry up!"

    Old Xu was so anxious he was hopping, "Without Rock''s help, offending Hundred Households Wang, our whole family might end up unable to even eat!"

    "I¡­"

    Xu Bin felt his face burning, but seeing his wife''s bulging stomach, he finallypromised: "g Officer Chen, I..."

    "I''ve already said, no need to call me g officer."

    Before he could finish, Chen Sansi interrupted, "At the camp, we call each other by our ranks, but at home, there''s no need to be so formal. If you don''t mind, I''d still like to call you Brother Bin."

    "What?"

    Xu Bin doubted his ears, "You don''t resent me?"

    "Why should I resent?"

    Chen Sansi was candid.

    If it wasn''t for borrowing the heavy bow, he wouldn''t have so easily won the favor of the Household officers nor could he have built his Qi-Blood so quickly.

    Admittedly, Xu Bin''s attitude might not have been the best.

    But help was help.

    The other could havepletely refused to lend it.

    "Hundred Households Wang is a bit..."

    Chen Sansi couldn''tpliment Wang Zhi''s character, "Anyway, I''ll speak with him, no worries."

    "Right, I knew Little Rock was good-natured, how could he not help you?"

    Old Xu said, "Aren''t you going to thank him now?"

    Xu Bin looked at the youth.

    In this world, not repaying kindness with enmity was already good.

    And here was someone willing to disregard past grievances, even calling him ''brother''?

    Futhermore, for him, it was really just a small effort.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    How could he face such decency?

    For some reason, when Xu Bin looked at Chen Sansi again, he began to sense an indescribable aura about him thatmanded respect.

    ''Respect'' might not be the exact word, but he couldn''t think of a more fitting way to describe it at that moment.

    Swallowing his words, Xu Bin finally simply offered a fist salute, "From now on, anything you ask, I am at your disposal!"

    Chen Sansi smiled, "That''s too much, but, I do have a favor to ask of you.

    "I''d like Brother Bin, whenever you''re not busy, to spar with me on spear technique."

    I benefited a lot from ourst exchange.

    "At your service."

    Xu Bin agreed instantly, "But, I really cannot ept this."

    He handed the slip back.

    "I have a sword and that''s enough; if you insist on giving me this, it means you still hold a grudge."

    "Alright."

    Chen Sansi didn''t insist further.

    "Little Rock, don''t go, stay for dinner!"

    Old Xu insisted on not letting him leave.

    At noon, Chen Sansi and Gu Xin both stayed for a meal.

    Xin and Xu Bin''s wife, Lady Tong, got to know each other, and as both enjoyed needlework, they found a lot ofmon topics to discuss, hitting it off well, and even made ns to meet up in the future.

    "Buzz¡ª"

    Halfway through the meal, the military camp sounded a rally call.

    "Father, we have to go," Chen Sansi said.

    Xu Bin hastily put on his armor and grabbed his sword. "Shanshi, hurry!"

    "What''s happened?"

    Chen Sansi purposely looked up at the sky but saw no signs of beacon smoke, indicating that there were no enemy attacks.

    When they arrived at the garrison, they were met by Lord Thousand Households, his face full of fury.

    Xiang Tingchun ordered in public, effective immediately, that half of the personnel within the Households should search the city of Po Yang daily for Witch God Sect Followers, not sparing even the Martial Arts Schools, and conduct strict searches of each. If any were found, they were to be charged with the crime of colluding with the enemy and treason.

    What was the Witch God Sect?

    Why even search the Martial Arts Schools? Hadn''t they just cooperated recently to surround and attack barbarian assassins?

    "I''m not sure," he replied.

    Householder Xiong said, puzzled, "All I know is that yesterday Lord Thousand Households and Luo Dongquan went to the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, and when they returned, he was furious, stating that they were all parasites of the court, and it was time they learned their lesson."

    "Lord Thousand Households is probably preparing to let the local lords bleed a little," Households Commander Liu said, stroking his chin.

    "Isn''t he afraid of the higher-ups?"

    It was a well-known fact that the Great Sheng Court was heavily in debt.

    In earlier years, the garrison asionally had dyed payments.

    On the other hand, the Martial Arts Schools and local gentry were amassing wealth.

    The money in the hands of the hundreds of households was merely scraps between the lords'' teeth. Nicely put, it was called a bribe; harshly put, it was money thrown to beggars.

    Securing some wealth from the Martial Arts Schools was naturally a good thing.

    But the problem was,

    If it was that simple, the court wouldn''t have been so hard-pressed.

    The Martial Arts Schools and local gentry included many who had retired from positions in the court; some were tantly businesses owned by current court officials. Who would dare touch them?

    On the surface, it seemed that their Households wielded the greatest authority.

    In reality, which Martial Arts School didn''t have connections with people in the prefecture or state offices?

    The actions of Xiang Tingchun were difficult for them to understand.

    "Unless, Xiang Tingchun has some leverage over them," Chen Sansi thought, though he did not voice it.

    And he was right.

    These people had been hiding from the court while searching for the Immortal Treasure.

    Xiang Tingchun had nned to use this matter to ckmail the Martial Arts Schools, but it seemed the talks had broken down.

    "Move out!"

    Five Hundred Households, leading over four hundred soldiers marched out of the garrison mightily.

    Chen Sansi and his subordinates were among them.

    Wang Zhi was not present, and two g leaders led them instead.

    One surnamed Miao, the other surnamed Fang.

    "g Leader Fang."

    Chen Sansi asked, "Wasn''t it barbarian assassins before? How did it be the Witch God Sect?"

    g Leader Fang shook his head, "That night, the masked persons who suddenly appeared and rescued the assassin were said to be from the Witch God Sect, supposedly very notorious viins. That''s all I know."

    "I know about this, I know!"

    Xu Wencai rushed over excitedly raising his hand.

    "Mr. Xu knows?"

    Chen Sansi said, "Please tell us."

    "Ahem!"

    Xu Wencai cleared his throat and began seriously, "This Witch God Sect, it originated from the barbarian tribes and has a history of two hundred years. However, it declined long ago.

    "Just about ten years ago, they suddenly became active again and even supported the Yuwen Tribe to swallow up three tribes on the grasnds in one fell swoop, transforming from a small tribe into one of the four hegemons. These years, the barbarians who have been harassing the borders of Sheng are mainly from the Yuwen Tribe, with the other three hegemons mostly watching from the sidelines."

    "Hmm, you seem to know quite a lot!"

    Zhu Tong was half skeptical, "You aren''t making this up, right?"

    "Ptui!"

    Xu Wencai proudly stated, "I traveled everywhere in my early years. You think I did that for nothing?"

    "No wonder you weren''t at home even when your father died a few years ago!" Zhu Tong said bluntly.

    Xu Wencai turned dark and fell silent.

    "Witch God Sect, Yuwen Tribe, border, Immortal Treasure..." Chen Sansi connected the dots and realized it seemed to be a matter of great significance.

    Following their entry into the city, the five hundred soldiers began a house-to-house search.

    However, they temporarily did not search the Four Great Martial Arts Schools and other top-tier halls, focusing primarily on the smaller and lesser-known ones.

    This was Xiang Tingchun making an example of the smaller entities.

    The search continued until dusk, and they then left without any conflicts, but this was just the beginning.

    After wasting an afternoon, Chen Sansi went straight to the arsenal upon returning to the Households, intending to exchange the Weapons Slip and then get a bowl of Blood Replenishing Soup.

 Chapter 34 Mastery of Spear Technique

    The weapon was not needed by Xu Bin, of course, it could not be wasted.

    Conveniently, the plum blossom spear in Chen Sansi''s hand was toomon. Although it did not drag down his abilities, it also did not offer any enhancement.

    In the arsenal, various types of weapons filled the racks.

    Most were standard issue, a small portion was fine weapons made by military officers, among which spears were the scarcest with only two or three varieties avable.

    Chen Sansi''s gaze fell on a long spear in the center of thest row.

    This spear was about four meters long, with a slim, reed-leaf-shaped head, a red tassel following the de, and a shaft slightly thicker than the plum blossom spear''s, also made of white wax wood but wrapped in bamboo strips after being oiled, coated in ckcquer, with a conical spear butt at the end.

    "This spear is called the reed leaf spear."

    The arsenal keeper introduced, "It was left behind by a hundred households from before, and has been gathering dust here ever since. If Chen Qigu fancies it, you''re wee to take it."

    "Thank you."

    Chen Sansi took the long spear, weighing it in his hands, approximately twenty or thirty pounds, and began to practice with it immediately outside the arsenal.

    The spear technique that came with the soldier training was fundamentally a long weapon style.

    Wielding the reed leaf spear, his spear technique became even more adept.

    After practicing for roughly half an hour, signs of Qi-Blood deficiency emerged.

    "Martial Arts really is a bottomless pit!"

    Chen Sansi, carrying the spear, left.

    Not far from the arsenal was a pharmacy.

    From a distance, one could catch the scent of the medicinal herbs.

    The pharmacy was quiet, home to only an old man, two errand boys, and several jars simmering with content.

    "Elder, I''vee to get some blood replenishing soup."

    Chen Sansi passed over a slip.

    The old man took the slip: "Have you trained out your Qi-Blood? If you haven''t trained out your Qi-Blood, you shouldn''t drink the blood replenishing soup."

    Chen Sansi, who had never encountered supplemental medicine, was clueless: "Is that so?"

    "Of course."

    The old man stroked his beard and exined, "All medicine carries a certain toxicity; only Martial Artists who have trained out their Qi-Blood can expel the poisons through sweat during training. Otherwise, drinking too much can lead to poisoning, eventually rotting the internal organs and rendering a person useless."

    Chen Sansi nodded to indicate he had indeed trained out his Qi-Blood.

    "That''s good, then."

    Only then did the old man ept the slip, rising to select the appropriate herbs to concoct the medicine on the spot.

    While waiting, the two introduced themselves to each other.

    This old man''s surname was Jiang, a hereditary Medical Officer in the garrison without any rank.

    After waiting quietly for half an hour, Chen Sansi held a bowl of ckish soup in his hands.

    He took a sip and almost retched right then.

    The taste was not only bitter and astringent but also carried the faint stench of a sewage ditch, no wonder it was toxic!

    After drinking, it wasn''t like the bear heart where Qi-Blood would boil instantly; instead, there seemed to be a foreign substance in his abdomen, causing slight difort.

    This must be the medicinal strength, which needed Training to digest.

    Medical Officer Jiang said, "Next time, if you want to have some blood replenishing soup, tell me in advance so you won''t have to wait when youe."

    "Alright."

    Chen Sansi''s allowance was a bowl of blood replenishing soup every three days, and he curiously asked, "Medical Officer Jiang, if I run out of my allowance, is there any other way I can get the medicine?"

    "Buy it."

    Using a fan to control the heat, Medical Officer Jiang exined, "But you wouldn''t be buying from me. You''d have to go to the pharmacy opened by the Martial Arts Hall outside. The ingredients for one dose of blood replenishing soup cost ten taels of silver, and you can probably brew two bowls from it."

    "How much?!"

    Chen Sansi was stunned.

    A bear heart was worth about twenty taels of silver.

    Ten taels of silver could support an ordinary family for a year during a bumper harvest, and yet it could only be exchanged for two bowls of medicine?

    "Anything that can enhance Cultivation isn''t made from ordinary herbs. They usually take at least ten to eight years to grow and are very rare. Can they not be expensive? But that''s only part of it."

    Medical Officer Jiang patiently continued, "The main reason is the monopoly."

    "Monopoly?"

    Chen Sansi inquired, "Are you referring to the Martial Arts Hall?"

    "Correct."

    Medical Officer Jiang, exhaling deeply, said leisurely, "Medicinal herbs used specifically for enhancing Cultivation are extremely demanding in terms of growing conditions. There''s only so much suitablend for medicine gardens, and most of it has been sold to the Martial Arts Halls. Can they not be expensive?"

    "Why sell it?"

    Chen Sansi was somewhat puzzled. This was, after all, an absolute strategic resource.

    Doctor Jiang chuckled as he spoke, "What else could it be for¡ªthey, the officials, are short on money."

    "I heard from my father that when he was younger, our garrison''s medicine garden had more than two hundred plots scattered around. Then came a change in the County Magistrate, who sold off a part of thend. After several decades, isn''t it all gone?"

    "Kid, you are new and wouldn''t know. Back in the day, not only sries were owed but also medicine. Many people left, preferring to hide their identities as house ves for major sects in the prefectures and states rather than stay in the garrison."

    "If it weren''t for Elder Yan''s reforms, reiming some of thend, you wouldn''t have had any medicine to drink."

    "But most of it is still firmly in the hands of the Martial Arts Halls. Not even the Hundred Households officers can get as much as they want whenever they want."

    "Exaggerated."

    Chen Sansi summarized with two words.

    The corruption had reached such a degree that he doubted the court wouldst much longer.

    No wonder Xiang Tingchun wanted to do something but had to resort to extortion; still, it wasn''t guaranteed to work.

    He took his leave and returned to the Martial Arts Arena.

    The reed leaf gun swirled in motion.

    Pile Work, spear technique, Breathing Skill,bined with Qi-Blood cirction, his body began to operate under high stress.

    It was at these times that the medicinal effects were most apparent.

    Whenever the Qi-Blood was trained to near depletion, the medicine would start to transform, stimting every organ in the body, elerating the refinement of Qi-Blood in a continual cycle until a second thread of Qi-Blood was born. That was the entry into Blood Refining Mastery.

    After performing several sets of spear techniques, Chen Sansi was covered with foul sweat, but his proficiency made great strides. At this rate, it wouldn''t be long before he mastered the spear technique.

    Moreover, the power of that bowl of medicine was still present, not yet fully utilized¡ªit would be enough for at least two more days of practice.

    "My cultivation level is still low; one bowl of medicine every three days is just enough for now. There''s also no need for me to spend money to buy more."

    "And if I buy some Beast Meat in between, I can push my training to the limit!"

    "Time to eat!"

    It was getting dark, and Chen Sansi packed up his things and went home.

    The meal was prepared early at home; as soon as he entered, Sister Lan helped him remove his armor, fetch water, and after eating, boiled water for washing his feet¡ªafortable and smooth routine.

    "Right."

    Gu Xin held the wooden basin, "Someone came to see you today, hoping to invite you to be a guest tomorrow."

    Chen Sansi asked, "Who?"

    "Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy."

    After pouring out the water for washing his feet, Gu Xin began to massage Chen Sansi, "It sounds like a luxurious ce, like the Spring Pavilion, if I remember correctly. Qin Xiong''s younger brother seems to be training at Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, right?"

    Chen Sansiy on the bed, pondering the reason Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy was looking for him.

    Qin Feng? It was possible, but not very likely.

    Now that he was a Xuanfeng g Officer, his identity would be directly recorded at the Governor Mansion. Unless it was...

    It might also be because of the Immortal Treasure.

    The incident with the Immortal Treasure was entirely coincidental.

    He never expected to run into the barbarian before going out to kill Qin Feng.

    The Liang Family''s young master might suspect he had obtained the Immortal Treasure,

    Fortunately, the other party was also specting, without any substantive evidence. Moreover, since the Martial Arts Hall and the military were not getting along well, they wouldn''t dare do anything to him at this juncture.

    However,

    He did need to speed up enhancing his power.

    "In the future, if theye again, just directly reject them."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ...

    In the following days, aside from patrolling the city, Chen Sansi invested all his remaining energy into Martial Arts training.

    Blood Replenishing Soup, Beast Meat, along with Xu Bin''s sparring far exceeded his expectations. Six dayster, he sessfully made a breakthrough.

    "Huh--"

    An exhausted Chen Sansi nted the gun butt into the ground, feeling a second surge of hot blood flowing within him.

    No, it was different from others.

    The Qi-Blood in his body wasn''t "threads" but "streams."

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Soldier''s Spear Technique (Expert)]

    [Progress: (0/1000)]

    [Utility: Gun Movement Swift, amazing endurance, robust Qi-Blood]

 Chapter 35 Coming

    "Normally, bringing forth a strand of Qi-Blood is considered entry-level,"

    "Mastering the second strand,"

    "For the average Martial Artist, Qi-Blood is only as thick as a thin rope."

    "However, the Qi-Blood that Chen Sansi cultivated is equivalent to several thin ropes twisted together, two to three times more than that of an ordinary person."

    "This must be credited to the Hao Ran Breathing Skill, but undoubtedly, the proficiency panel also ys a part."

    "His endurance is already impressive, and now that his Qi-Blood has be even more robust, he is a perfect fit for the battlefield,"

    "A battlefield is not about one-on-one duels where killing an opponent ends the fight; rather, it''s about facing countless enemies in what are mostly battles of attrition."

    "This is also where the military formationse into y."

    "When a Martial Artist with Blood Refining Great Sess, roughly the level of a g leader, is confronted by well-trained Array Soldiers on the battlefield and gets trapped in a formation, they will typically exhaust their Qi-Blood after ying about twenty or so enemies and consequently copse from depletion, only to be hacked to death by the chaotic des,"

    "It''s not because the Martial Artist is weak, but rather because the formations are strong,"

    "During the recent drills, Chen Sansi took special care to learn alongside the others,"

    "Taking a small military formation of a hundred men as an example,"

    "Before closebat with bare des, archers and Crossbowmen first unleash a volley of arrows, followed by spearmen thrusting, then shield and sword fighters encircling, and finally hand-to-handbat ensues,"

    "Don''t forget that the enemy also has Generals; it''s not just you as a military officer,"

    "In such a scenario, no matter how high your rank as a Martial Artist, once you run out of manpower, you are bound to be worn down to death,"

    "Unless, your Qi-Blood is truly, very enduring,"

    "However, all of this is still too early for Chen Sansi to worry about; he won''t be going to the battlefield any time soon,"

    "You''ve mastered your Qi-Blood?"

    Xu Bin stood frozen on the spot, motionless for a long time,"

    "How many days has it been?"

    "If this continues, it won''t be long before you surpass me,"

    "It''s all thanks to Xu g Officer''s sparring with me, otherwise, it wouldn''t have been this fast,"

    After his breakthrough, Chen Sansi felt invigorated, but he didn''t let his guard down mentally,

    "Lately, the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy has sent people to invite him several times, all of which were declined; he was aware that this could not be a long-term solution and that the issue needed to be addressed sooner orter,"

    "Young Master Liang Zhan of Tianyuan was at the Bone Training Realm, and the Martial Arts Hall Master was even at Bone Forger Great Sess,"

    "Blood Refining was still at the bottom rank of Martial Artists, not even worth mentioning,"

    "If he could be a Refining Organ Martial Artist like Xiang Tingchun, who in Po Yang County would dare to provoke him?"

    "Time for work, time for work!"

    "It was almost time to patrol the city, Chen Sansi put away his reed leaf gun and called his men,"

    "Not only had he made a breakthrough, but his men had also improved,"

    "Zhu Tong had cultivated his Qi-Blood in the past two days, and a military soldier named Wang Li would not be far behind, while the other five Array Soldiers had also learned the spear technique and started practicing military formations,"

    "Only Xu Wencai was unable to do anything,"

    "The other day he got kicked while feeding the horses, and fearing that he might die under their hooves, he was not asked to go again,"

    "Let''s go, patrol the city,"

    "Ever since the Witch God Sect incident urred, people were dying daily within and outside the city,"

    "Rumors imed that the Witch God Sect was bloodthirsty by nature,"

    "Hence, the recent crackdowns have been extremely stringent,"

    "Yet, despite this, no disciples from any Martial Arts Academy were allowed to participate,"

    "Clearly, the Lord Thousand Households wanted to seize the Immortal Treasure before the Martial Arts Academies and then use it to coerce all the Martial Arts Halls in Po Yang County,"

    "Chen Sansi took his city patrols very seriously, attempting to locate traces of Witch God Sect followers,"

    "Unfortunately, he hasn''t found any leads so far,"

    "And even if he did find them, his current strength probably wouldn''t be enough to seize the items, so cultivating remains the most important thing,"

    "After advancing his Qi-Blood to two strands, a bowl of Blood Replenishing Soup every three days would most likely not suffice,"

    "During a break in his patrols, Chen Sansi went to the Martial Arts Academy to purchase medicines,"

    "Zhu Tong apanied him as well,"

    "Having some savings from ughtering pigs at home, he too gathered enough money for medicine to speed up his Blood Refining,"

    "Among the Four Great Martial Arts Schools, Yunhe Martial Arts Hall and Zhao''s Martial Arts Academy had thergest business in medicinal materials,prising two-thirds of Po Yang County''s trade,"

    "Among them, the quality of medicines from Yunhe Martial Arts Hall was the best,"

    "Arriving at Gui Xiang Street, Chen Sansi saw two Yunhe Medicine Stores,"

    "To be precise, one of them was the ''Yunhe Medicine Shop''."

    It gives one the impression of Sprite and Thunderbolt.

    But in fact, both are genuine.

    Lately patrolling the city, he had often heard news about the Martial Arts Halls.

    After the County Magistrate passed away, barbarian assassins killed the Master of Yunhe Martial Arts Hall, leading to its split.

    It''s said that the Young Master of Yunhe Martial Arts Hall had mediocre talent, at nearly thirty years old, he hadn''t yet entered the Bone Training Realm, while his uncle had made small achievement in that realm. After the old Master''s death, he took away his nephew''s right to session and became the new Hall Master.

    Not only that, but he also kicked his nephew out with a single kick, leaving him only a group of insignificant servant disciples and a medicine shop. Since he was not allowed to use the original name, he had to settle for ''Yunhe''.

    Topete, Yunhe Medicine Shop even offered discounts; Blood Replenishing Soup, which would normally cost ten taels, was only sold for eight.

    More advanced than Blood Replenishing Soup were the Nine Revolutions Replenishing Essence Soup and the Medicine Baths required for the Bone Training Realm, which were also essentially discounted to seventy or eighty percent of their original price, but still outrageously expensive.

    Nine Revolutions Replenishing Essence Soup would cost twenty-five taels for one dose.

    Chen Sansi simply couldn''t afford that.

    He had saved up twenty taels from hunting ck bears and obtained ten from killing Qin Feng, but his daily expenses were also high; he couldn''t go without various exotic beast meats, leaving him hardly any silver left.

    In the end, Chen Sansi bought two doses of medicine, spending sixteen taels.

    "There goes my savings."

    Chen Sansi felt like his heart was bleeding.

    And those two doses of medicine wouldst only about a week.

    It seems that he still had to rely on his hunting skills to make big money.

    Fortunately, as a g officer, he could freely venture deep into Second Layer Mountain. Hunting something valuable shouldn''t be too difficult.

    It would only mean some dy in his Martial Arts training, but that was a necessary sacrifice.

    He had heard that a tiger could sell for a hundred taels of silver! An Exotic Beast would be even more expensive.

    Exotic Beasts were rare, but there were frequent tales of Big Worms on Second Layer Mountain.

    He would inquire about it and if he could hunt down a tiger, the silver he earned would be enough to quickly reach small achievement.

    Back in the military camp.

    Chen Sansi saw Hundred Households Wang, who had been missing for a few days. Thetter imed he had gone to the Prefecture City to visit rtives and was very pleased to learn of his breakthrough to expertise.

    "Good, good, good, you''re doing well, kid. You''ve got the style I had back in my day!"

    Wang Zhi fumbled in his bosom and pulled out a golden lock, "This is for you, as a reward for your diligent practice."

    "A longevity lock?"

    Chen Sansi knew about this object, typically given by elders in the family to young children. Wang Zhi''s willingness to give it away meant it definitely wasn''t his own, and it was very likely swindled from someone else.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Thank you for the kind gesture, but I''d better not ept it."

    He declined.

    "If you don''t want it, forget it. Where is there such a good superior like me, willing to buy gold for subordinates!"

    Hundred Households Wang wore it around his own neck, "You''re asking for leave to go up the mountain tomorrow, right? Go on, go on."

    "Thank you, sir."

    Chen Sansi took his leave and as he was almost at his front door,

    Two figures suddenly appeared, blocking the road ahead, one in front and one behind, old and young, resembling a master-servant rtionship.

    "g Officer Chen, I had invited you several times without sess, so I took the liberty to visit, please excuse my presumption," said Liang Zhan as he held his folding fan and bowed with sped hands, "Please honor us with your presence at the Spring Pavilion for a gathering, plenty of beautiful women and wine."

    "You are quite presumptuous."

    Chen Sansi spoke indifferently, "I have matters to attend to, so I won''t trouble Mr. Liang with the expense."

    "I have no malicious intent."

    Liang Zhan stepped forward, lowering his voice, "Rest assured, the matter with the Qin brothers won''t be pursued by Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy."

    "What Qin brothers?"

    Chen Sansi said nkly, "I don''t understand."

    The other party might indeed not pursue the matter with Qin Feng.

    But it''s more likely that they wanted to use this to get him talking, to ask if he had left the city that night, to see if he had any chance ofing into contact with the Immortal Treasure.

    "g Officer Chen really is a master at ying dumb."

    Liang Zhan''s smile didn''t reach his eyes, and he gave a sign to the old servant behind him, "But I still hope you can grace us with your presence for a meal."

    "Please!"

    The old servant extended a pair of withered tree branch-like hands, reaching out to grab him.

    Chen Sansi''s brows furrowed, his grip tightening on his spear!

 Chapter 36 Redeeming Sins Through Meritorious Service

    "Oh, isn''t that Mr. Liang!"

    Before Chen Sansi could make a move, a sharp voice rang out.

    Wang Zhi stood in front of the old servant and cheerfully said, "What wind has blown such an honored guest our way? Forgive me for not receiving you from afar! May I ask what brings Mr. Liang here?"

    Chen Sansi interjected, "Mr. Liang was thinking of inviting me to the Spring Pavilion."

    "Really?!"

    Upon hearing this, Wang Zhi burst into joy, his small eyes squeezing into slits, "Mr. Liang, that''s not fair, why invite Sansi and not me? Let''s go together!"

    Damn...

    Liang Zhan hastily retreated, squeezing out an awkward smile, "Hundred Households Wang, actually I just wanted to inquire about something, and since Chen Qigu is busy, we should reschedule."

    He then attempted to leave.

    Wang Zhi stepped forward and grasped his shoulder, "He''s busy, but I''m not! Let''s go, I''ve heard that the Spring Pavilion recently got some fresh girls, so tender~"

    "Hundred Households Wang!"

    Liang Zhan struggled to free himself, "Ah, I just remembered, I also have something urgent, I must go."

    "Hmm?"

    Wang Zhi''s face fell, "Has Mr. Liang grown distant from me?"

    "Not at all."

    Liang Zhan took out a silver ingot weighing five taels from his sleeve, "Truly, I have urgent matters, but next time for sure!"

    He stuffed the money into Wang Zhi''s hands and then hurriedly grabbed his servant to flee.

    "Nearly lost twenty taels of silver!"

    After confirming that no one had followed them, Liang Zhan sighed in relief.

    At the tavern, this Fatty Wang wouldn''t hold back, he''d order anything expensive, and even with arge family business, Mr. Liang couldn''t afford to throw money around unnecessarily.

    "Master."

    The old servant asked, "Are we just letting this go?"

    "Guess what I just saw?"

    Liang Zhan gestured around his neck, "That kid Qin Feng''s longevity lock has ended up around Fatty Wang''s neck. This has nothing to do with the Chens."

    "Oh?"

    The old servant said in surprise, "Could Hundred Households Wang havee into contact with the Immortal Treasure?"

    "No."

    Liang Zhan analyzed, "If he had acquired the Immortal Treasure, would he dare to show off the longevity lock so tantly?

    "It seems my previous worries were unfounded, the Immortal Treasure has indeed been stolen by the people of the Witch God Sect. Uncle Wu, we must hasten, exhaust all means to find the Immortal Treasure before Xiang Tingchun does, or else we''ll have to spend a fortune to buy it!"

    "Don''t worry, master."

    The old servant bowed, "The trustworthy disciples from the Martial Arts Academy have all been sent out."

    ...

    "This Mr. Liang is getting tighter with his money, huh? I''m giving this to you."

    Wang Zhi was about to throw the silver ingot to Chen Sansi, then stopped midway and changed it for two taels in smaller denominations, "Split fifty-fifty!"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi wanted no less, and pocketed the money.

    "What did he want from you?"

    Wang Zhi''s narrowed eyes gleamed, clutching the golden lock around his neck, "It was about that kid, what''s-his-name, Qin something?"

    "I''m not sure."

    Chen Sansi feigned confusion.

    He hadn''t expected the golden lock to belong to Qin Feng; no wonder Liang Zhan had nced at it several times just now.

    Qin Feng''s death could likely not be concealed much longer.

    But in fact, as long as it didn''t involve the Immortal Treasure, no one would trouble him over the death of a Qin Feng.

    "Ha, you don''t trust me?"

    Wang Zhi found it amusing, "Do you remember what I told you before? No need to be overly cautious about such matters; if you killed someone, you killed someone, what''s there to fear? With me here, no one dares to touch you."

    Chen Sansi conservatively said, "I really don''t know."

    Some things, even when both parties well understand, it''s still best not to articte them.

    "Look at you guarding against others!

    "Alright, let''s not hide things anymore, lest you always suspect I have designs against you."

    Wang Zhi suddenly turned serious, "In Po Yang County, no matter whom you offend, I will help you, even if it''s Households Commander Xiang!

    "I have but one request of you.

    "Should the daye when you can enter the Eight Camps and be a personal disciple of the Lord Governor, I only ask you to convey a message for me.

    "Tell the Lord Governor that I, Wang Zhi, wish to make amends through meritorious deeds!

    "I only ask for a chance from the Lord Governor, even if it''s to be a coachman or to face death; I want to die in the Eight Camps!"

    Chen Sansi had indeed heard some rumors in the military camp.

    Such as Wang Zhiing from the Eight Camps and even knowing some high officials there.

    But ''making amends through meritorious deeds''...

    That phrase sounded quite severe.

    Given that Wang Zhi was a Hundred Households, his realm would not exceed bone training.

    A bone training martial artist, how grave a crime could he havemitted to talk about ''making amends through meritorious deeds''? And it sounded as if he was quite familiar with Commander Sun before.

    s.

    Since the other party had already said so much, Chen Sansi also had to take a stand.

    He solemnly said, "Hundred Households Wang, rest assured, if I really live up to expectations and enter the Eight Camps to meet Commander Sun, I will surely deliver the message no matter what."

    "Good, good!"

    Wang Zhi nodded repeatedly, "From now on, don''t call me Hundred Households, just call me Fatty since we''re brothers."

    "Is that appropriate?" Chen Sansi asked.

    "Pretentious! Why wouldn''t it be?"

    Wang Zhi cursed, waving his sleeve as he left, "If those from the Liang familye looking for trouble again, let me know. I''ll cover my face at night and take care of him for you."

    "..."

    At this moment, as Chen Sansi watched Fatty''s hefty back, why did he feel that the phrases "greedy as life" and "cunning viin" seemed somewhat out of ce when applied to him?

    Of course.

    One shouldn''t judge a book by its cover, nor should one easily believe what others say on the surface; actions are what truly matter.

    He stopped pondering and went home to consider tomorrow''s hunting.

    Improving his strength was urgent.

    This feeling of being approached at home was something Chen Sansi did not want to experience again.

    Lion!

    If he could hunt a lion, it would be very useful for a long time!

    Tomorrow he would go back to Yanbian Vige and ask Uncle Zhao.

    Although they did not have the strength to hunt lions, having roamed the mountains for years, they surely knew where to find one.

    Although he possessed tracking skills, he still needed a rough area, or else how long would it take to search the vast Hutou Mountain Range?

    After dinner, Chen Sansi also prepared and drank some Blood Replenishing Soup, practicing untilte into the night before resting.

    ...

    The next day.

    Chen Sansi rose early.

    Going to Yanbian Vige was not close, and he wanted to ride a horse to save time.

    He failed again.

    This horse was fiercely defiant, utterly refusing to be subdued and continuously acting up.

    Fortunately, his proficiency had increased quite a bit.

    [Skill: Horse Control (Entry-level)]

    [Progress: (75/100)]

    [Utility: None]

    After one or two more tries, he would enter the initial stage of Horse Control Skill, surely subduing it then.

    Having a means of transportation was crucial.

    Leaving the military camp, he went straight to Yanbian Vige.

    "You want to hunt tigers?"

    Zhao Qiao, Wu Da, and Zhuang Yi were all there, ready to team up to hunt wolves.

    "Yes."

    Chen Sansi nodded, "Uncle Zhao is an experienced hunter, he surely knows."

    "Okay, let''s go up the mountain together!"

    The group of four arrived at the creek at the border between the North and South Peaks of Hutou Mountain.

    Zhao Qiao pointed toward the southwest direction, "Five years ago, Old Liu from the vige saw a Big Worm in a cave twenty miles in this direction. He was so frightened that he wet his pants on the spot; luckily, he wasn''t discovered and managed to run back. However, I''m not sure if the Big Worm is still there now."

    "Thank you, Uncle Zhao!"

    Chen Sansi bowed his hands, ready to cross the creek.

    From afar, he could already see the traces left by animals in the forest on the other side.

    All silver!

    Zhao Qiao and the other two stood there, eagerly watching him.

    "Uncle Zhao."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Chen Sansi knew they were having a hard time, "How about we do it together?"

    "Not at all, not at all."

    Zhao Qiao waved his hands repeatedly, "ck Bear almost took our lives, let alone Big Worm. We would only be holding you back, we dare not go. Little Stone, you be careful too, Big Worm is even more dangerous than ck Bear!"

    "Uncle Zhao."

    Wu Da looked longingly at the lush forest on the other side, "What if we also go over there? Not to hunt tigers, but even hunting a mountain goat would be good."

    "Are you crazy?"

    Zhao Qiao chided, "Have you forgotten how Old Liu died?"

    "He ran over there to hunt because he couldn''t survive three years ago, ended up shooting a deer, but the Martial Arts Academy Disciples coveted it and wanted to snatch it. Those people didn''t want to pay for it and shot him full of arrows! If I hadn''t risked going over, you wouldn''t even see his body!"

    "..."

    Just because one couldn''t survive and went hunting on the other side, did that mean one deserved to die?

    Chen Sansi felt heartbroken.

    He dared not urge further; he could go to the other side without issue, but since he wasn''t a high-ranking official, if something happened to Uncle Zhao and the others, it wouldn''t be worth it.

    After saying goodbye to the three men,

    Chen Sansi, carrying a bow and arrow and holding a gun, leaped over the creek and plunged into the dense jungle.

 Chapter 37 Hunting Tigers

    North of Second Layer Mountain.

    Chen Sansi''s "Track Concealment" was fully activated, with no trace escaping his notice.

    Rabbits, roe deer, goats...

    If he wished, within ten minutes he could be carrying a goat down the mountain to his home.

    But a wild goat of around one hundred pounds could only sell for two pieces of silver.

    That might have been fine before, but now it was too little.

    His target was a tiger, or at the very least a ck bear or a leopard¡ªsome kind of fierce beast.

    Following Zhao Qiao''s suggestion, Chen Sansi headed toward the southwest.

    Along the way, he asionally encountered martial arts academy disciples adorned in brocade robes.

    To avoid unnecessary trouble, Chen Sansi wore cloth armor this time up the mountain.

    Seeing his armor and heavy bow, the disciples indeed dared not provoke him, and mostly went about their own business after a nce or two.

    "Why are there so many people?"

    Chen Sansi traveled five miles and encountered at least a dozen people.

    Even for hunting, they shouldn''t appear in such dense numbers.

    Moreover, many of them didn''t even carry bows and arrows; instead, they roamed back and forth with knives or swords, appearing as if they were searching for something.

    Witch God Sect?

    It didn''t seem like it.

    Because these people looked rxed and most of them were dressed as disciples of the Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy.

    Chen Sansi took notice.

    A gust of wind blew, and with his exceptional hearing, he overheard the conversations of the martial arts academy disciples.

    "White Deer!"

    "The Master is injured; whoever finds the White Deer will be rewarded with property!"

    "It''s tough! I heard the White Deer likes to eat medicinal herbs, and those herbs alone cost at least a dozen pieces of silver."

    "..."

    Chen Sansi figured out what was going on.

    The night Qin Feng died, a battle had broken out in the city.

    Xiang Tingchun and the masters of the three big martial arts halls were arresting barbarian assassins when they encountered the Witch God Sect. Master Tai Lei was seriously injured and needed an exotic beast, the White Deer, for healing; thus, a reward was offered.

    No matter the level of the disciple, anyone who could present the White Deer would be immediately taken as a core true inheritor and also manage a portion of the properties in the future, which is why they were running into the mountains like headless chickens.

    Chen Sansi made a mental note of the exotic beast''s characteristics and continued to hurry forward.

    Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy...

    He hadn''t seen Zhang Chao and hispanion.

    Otherwise, he would have shot a few arrows at them regardless.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    After traveling another dozen miles, he arrived at the midsection of a mountain peak.

    At the side of the winding and narrow path stood two martial arts academy disciples with bows on their backs, one of whom had a bow that Chen Sansi estimated was a Seven Strength Bow, already considered forbidden weaponry.

    Holding iron swords, they looked ahead with hesitant expressions and were reluctant to move forward.

    Chen Sansi ignored the two of them.

    "Hey!"

    A martial arts academy disciple called out to him, "You dare to go forward? There''s a Big Worm inside this peak!"

    "I know."

    Chen Sansi answered perfunctorily, showing no intention of stopping.

    "You''re still going? Aren''t you afraid of death?"

    The martial arts academy disciple noticed the Big Bow on the neer''s back and his eyes lit up. He looked at hispanion with the prohibited Seven Strength Bow and, getting his approval, proposed, "How about we cooperate? The Brother Wei next to me is a Blood Refining Warrior with small achievement!"

    They had discovered the presence of a tiger on this peak only in recent days.

    But due to the court''s ban on heavy bows and their limited cultivation, they wouldn''t normally dare to provoke it.

    Wei Xu took the risk of acquiring a Seven Strength Bow, but was still not very confident he could take down the Big Worm. Close contact with the beast would be more than a Blood Refining Warrior could withstand.

    Finding someone carrying a two-stone bow was an unexpected surprise.

    "Brother."

    Wei Xu, full of confidence, said, "I have Blood Refining Minor Sess, and with ourbined strength, taking down the Big Worm will be a piece of cake. Once sessful, we''ll split the proceeds: sixty-forty. I''ll take sixty, you take forty. How about it?"

    Chen Sansi frowned upon hearing this and, uninterested in further engagement, quickened his pace.

    "?"

    Wei Xu was staggered, clearly not expecting to be treated as if he didn''t exist: "Arrogant!"

    "Brother Wei, he doesn''t want to cooperate, so what do we do?" his junior asked.

    "I''ve glimpsed that Big Worm from afar once, it''s incredibly formidable. Where does he get his confidence from?"

    Wei Xu said angrily, "Let''s follow and see. Maybe the Big Worm will eat him, and we can take advantage at the rear."

    ...

    "Someone else has their eyes on this Big Worm. If I hade two dayster, I might have missed my chance."

    Chen Sansi crouched on the ground, scooped up a handful of dirt, and from it extracted two rather stiff orange hairs, followed by w marks, buried feces, and dried bloodstains in the grass.

    He knew this process by heart.

    Like following a thread, he traced it to a hidden cave halfway up the mountain.

    The cave, with a diameter of roughly five meters, was concealed by dense grass and branches, easily overlooked if not examined closely.

    About twenty zhang from the cave''s entrance, amidst the thickets, one could vaguely see rotting clothing and chilling white bones; it seemed the deceased had been there for some time.

    "Ny-nine percent sure the Big Worm lives inside."

    Of course, Chen Sansi would not foolishly charge in.

    In the confined space, the advantages of bows and long spears disappeared, so he needed to find a way to lure the Big Worm out.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    Chen Sansi suddenly turned and loosed an arrow.

    A hundred paces away, a passing roe deer got grazed by the precise shot, leaving behind a trail of blood.

    "Hiss¡ª"

    The foolish roe deer let out a piercing scream.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    Another arrow shot,nding near its feet.

    Startled, the roe deer bolted towards the cave''s direction.

    Chen Sansi had deliberately not killed it.

    His experience hunting ck Bears had taught him that a dead lure might not attract the game.

    But a live one was different.

    Predators like tigers, with their strong territorial instincts, wouldn''t allow any infringements.

    A creature carrying the scent of fresh blood running around and calling out on its territory was certainly not something the Big Worm would tolerate.

    Chen Sansi climbed up a tree to a vantage point, then continually prevented the roe deer from leaving the vicinity with arrows, forcing it to stay near the cave, its wounds bleeding as it ran chaotically.

    The process went on for a full five minutes, the hugemotion scaring away the birds in the woods, but the pitch-ck cave remained eerily silent.

    "Ineffective? It shouldn''t be. Tigers are ferocious and murderous; they usually don''t hold back."

    Just as Chen Shanshi was considering other approaches, a gloomy wind swept through the mountains.

    Wind follows the tiger, clouds follow the dragon.

    Here ites!

    A robust shadow, as mighty as a mountain yet as nimble as a leopard, burst out of the silent cave. In the blink of an eye, it pinned the roe deer to the ground, its sharp fangs urately mping down on the carotid artery.

    After a few feeble struggles, the roe deer became a lifeless body.

    What a majestic king of the mountains!

    Chen Sansi focused his gaze.

    The tiger was more than ten feet in length, weighing no less than seven or eight hundred catties, its golden fur dazzling in the sunlight, and its saber-like ws dripping with blood. Its orange-yellow pupils emitted a fierce light, letting out a roar that shook the area for miles.

    No wonder ordinary people would be petrified at the sight.

    After hunting the roe deer, the Big Worm did not rush to feast, apparently not hungry, purely bothered by the noise.

    It grabbed its prey, intending to drag it back inside the cave.

    Right at that moment, Chen Sansi''s two-stone bow was drawn taut as a full moon; a Wolf Teeth Arrow whistled through the air.

    "Bang¡ª"

    The arrow collided with the tiger''s skull, making a dull sound, and got firmly stuck, piercing through the bone but failing to reach the brainstem and deliver a fatal blow!

    Such a tiger must be close to an Exotic Beast?!

    "Roar¡ª"

    In pain, the Big Worm roared and with a swipe of its paw broke off the arrow shaft in its forehead, then, with a gust of Gale, charged towards the direction of its attacker.

 Chapter 38 No More Fear

    Only by witnessing a Big Worm charging at oneself could one truly grasp the sheer force of a tiger descending the mountain.

    Chen Sansi remained unflustered and calmly drew his bow and affixed an arrow.

    Another arrow.

    This time, he chose the tiger''s most vulnerable spot, its eyes, as his target.

    The mighty rush of the ferocious tiger was as fast as lightning, and its intimidating presence made aiming at its moving eyes as difficult as achieving the feat of "Hundred-step Piercing."

    Yet, Chen Sansi was someone who could aplish Hundred-step Piercing.

    "Roar¡ª¡ª"

    A deep, organ-shaking wail echoed as the arrow blinded the tiger''s left eye.

    "Whoosh¡ª¡ª"

    Next was the right eye.

    The tiger''s both eyes were blinded, its white whiskers stained red with blood.

    What was terrifying was that despite such pain, it still didn''t stop its charge; with itsst bit of vision, it leaped and climbed up a tree in a matter of seconds, determined to tear its attacker to pieces.

    A tiger can absolutely climb a tree.

    Chen Sansi had prepared for this, he jumped to an adjacent tree a step ahead while not forgetting to turn around and shoot another arrow.

    The fight of a trapped beast is particrly fearsome.

    The Big Worm appeared to be still alive, but it wouldn''tst much longer.

    He just had to dy, patience was key.

    Reliant on its remaining sense of hearing to gauge location, the tiger followed with a leap of its own.

    Chen Sansi shifted trees and shot arrows, and the Big Worm was struck by the arrows.

    This cycle repeated several times.

    Regardless of the tiger''s vigor, it was but a beast in the end; riddled with arrows and blind, it soon could not hold on any longer and fell from the tree ten meters high.

    Once it lost its ferocious "breath of life," the Big Worm could no longer bear the pain, it struggled wildly, spinning in ce while swinging its ws and fangs, its blood painting a scarlet trail on the muddy ground.

    It was over.

    Chen Sansi was about to end the hunt when he detected the sound of rapidly approaching footsteps with a twitch of his ears.

    The two Martial Arts Academy Disciples from before appeared.

    "Brother, let me help you kill this beast,"

    said Wei Xu, drawing his sword and rushing over.

    At this point, the mighty tiger was at itsst gasp, barely a hit away from death; assistance was unwarranted.

    It was clear that they only wanted to help as a pretext to im a share of the spoils.

    "Get lost!"

    Chen Sansi was sparing with words, and in an instant, he shot an arrow from his Kaiyuan Bow.

    A gust of cold air brushed against Wei Xu''s neck, causing him to freeze in ce, unable to move for a long time.

    Only when hot blood trailed down his neck and soaked into his cor did he realize the danger he had narrowly escaped.

    It was a close shave!

    He was inches away from having his artery prated by the arrow!

    "Elder brother¡­"

    His junior brother at his side was simrly terrified.

    How could this man be so ruthless?

    They only wanted a piece of the action, some silver for their troubles; they never intended to harm anyone, yet this fellow... this fellow greeted them with an arrow right off!

    And what a swift arrow it was!

    All they saw was his hand reaching into his Arrow Bag at his waist, and in the next second, the arrow came flying at them.

    Wei Xu clutched at the wound on his neck, retreating continuously; he didn''t dare advance another step.

    Fight back?

    He wasn''t blind.

    If this young man could nearly kill the Big Worm, couldn''t he easily kill him as well?

    Up in the tree.

    Once Chen Sansi had intimidated them, he stowed his bow and arrows and wielded his reed leaf spear in a reverse grip. His arms, muscled and lined like entwining snakes, poised the spear tip toward the tiger''s head, and he descended from the heavens.

    "Hiss¡ª¡ª"

    The sharp spearhead prated the tiger''s head, pinning it to the ground as he knelt on the tiger''s body. He felt its lifeforce rapidly ebbing away until it stilledpletely before withdrawing the bloodied spear.

    Having dealt with the Big Worm, Chen Sansi then dragged over the previously killed roe deer, hefting both prizes on his shoulders.

    Not quite a thousand pounds.

    No big deal for a Martial Artist skilled in Blood Refining.

    It was only at this moment that Wei Xu came back to his senses.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    As they watched the youth carrying the body of the mighty tiger, they kept retreating to maintain a safe distance, speaking hesitantly, "Who are you, to act so domineeringly?"

    "I''m merely a small g in the army,"

    Chen Sansi was not afraid at all.

    All that mattered was strength.

    If these two really dared to retaliate, they''d be shot dead before they could even raise their hands.

    In a word, if they couldn''t withstand his arrows, being of a higher realm was of no use.

    Blood Martial Artists did not possess the characteristic of having a body resistant to des.

    Nonsense!

    Wei Xu had never seen a small g with such impressive archery.

    Moreover, his master had warned that Xiang Tingchun was looking for troubletely, and they must not provoke anyone in the army, or else no one would care if they died.

    He and his junior martial brother let him pass with trepidation, fearful of another arrow.

    Chen Sansi walked past them, fair and square.

    He was no longer afraid!

    In the rich depths of Second Layer Mountain, he was not only able toe but also to make people from the Martial Arts Hall bow their heads!

    This tiger hunt had improved his proficiency in two skills.

    [Tracking and Hiding (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 55/1000]

    ...

    [Skill: Archery (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: (150/1000)]

    However, his archery was improving more slowly than before.

    It had to do with the bow.

    Chen Sansi had previously made a special two-stone bow, which, after his increase in martial arts prowess, felt too light to pull.

    "Looks like I''ll need to change my bow and arrows."

    "For a bow stronger than two stones, I''ll have to custom order it from the craftsmen at the forge in the Households."

    "Then again, the bones of this Big Worm are clearly harder than the average fierce beast; can they be used as material for a new bow?"

    "Thanks to Uncle Zhao Qiao, otherwise, with such a big mountain, I would''ve had a tough time finding the tiger''s hiding spot."

    He crossed the stream.

    Chen Sansi returned to the south side of Second Layer Mountain.

    Zhao Qiao, Wu Da, and Zhuang Yi, unexpectedly, were all waiting for him here.

    After all, it was a tiger hunt, and they were worried.

    Another reason was the fear of the young man being targeted by the disciples of the Martial Arts Academy.

    Even if something unexpected happened, they couldn''t have helped much, but they still wanted to wait.

    Putting it bluntly, if an ident did ur, there would at least be someone to retrieve the body, ensuring that it wouldn''t be left unimed; this was another reason hunters stuck together.

    It seemed they were overly concerned.

    "Brother Chen, you''re really fierce!"

    Zhuang Yi eyed the Big Worm''s ws and fangs; the thought of it being alive was so daunting he didn''t dare imagine.

    The hunting dog at their feety down submissively, not daring to take a deep breath.

    Wu Da''s eyes almost popped out: "Can a martial artist really kill a tiger?"

    "Sansi has truly made something of himself, not only defeating a tiger but also seeming untouchable by others."

    Zhao Qiaoughed: "Then let''s make haste down the mountain."

    Chen Sansi looked at the others.

    Inparison, their catch seemed quite meager.

    They had only caught some pheasants and hares, nothing major.

    ...

    Chen Sansi suddenly stopped, ced the tiger on the ground, and spoke: "Uncle Zhao, I can''t move it on my own; can you all help me take it to the town? We''ll stick to the rules as usual."

    "Brother Chen, you were able to kill the Big Worm;you should be able to carry it, right?" Zhuang Yi said naively.

    "Shut up!"

    Zhao Qiao red at him.

    This fool didn''t realize that Sansi was pretending to be unable because he saw they hadn''t caught much; it was a way to offer them some copper coins under the guise of needing help.

    The group of four arrived in town.

    Upon appraisal, the Big Worm was indeed extraordinary. Although it wasn''t considered an Exotic Beast, it wasn''t a normal fierce beast either, and the price was ordingly higher.

    The tiger weighed a total of seven hundred catties and was valued at over one hundred and fifty taels in total.

    However, Chen Sansi kept the tiger heart, galldder, skin, bones, and fifty catties of meat for himself, ultimately receiving sixty-eight taels of silver.

    For the idiot animal, they got one tael of silver.

    "The resources for Blood Refining Minor Sess are almost enough."

 Chapter 39 Custom Heavy Bow

    All affairs taken care of, Silver tucked into his belt, the sky had already begun to darken.

    Zhao Qiao and his twopanions hurried back.

    "That cult has been causing a lot of trouble recently; people are dying every day. Let''s hurry home, Brother Shi, you be careful too."

    The Witch God Sect.

    Chen Sansi felt it was strange.

    In theory, those people should beying low in Po Yang, so how dare theye out and make trouble?

    It was unclear when they would find them.

    With Silver in hand, Chen Sansi arrived at the medicine shop, only to find it closed.

    Not just Yunhe Medicine Shop, but Cloud Crane Medicine Store was closed too.

    "Am I toote?"

    He wasn''t in a hurry;ing tomorrow would be the same.

    Upon rushing home, Gu Xin and Xu Bin''s wife, Sister Tong, were in the courtyard working on shoe pads. They shrieked in fear and trembled like flowers in the wind when they saw someone draped in a bloody tiger skin storm in.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Brother Shi..."

    Gu Xin''s heart pounded, and she said with disbelief, "You killed a Big Worm?"

    Chen Sansi awkwardly dropped his things and apologized to Sister Tong, "Sister-inw, I didn''t know you were here."

    "It''s fine, it''s fine."

    Sister Tong, looking at the blood-soaked youth, didn''t dare stay any longer and left in a flurry.

    "Brother Shi, really..."

    Once she recovered, Gu Xin came over to help unload: "Sister Tong is pregnant, you know."

    "me me."

    Chen Sansi took off his armor: "Sister Lan, it''s been hard on you, cook the tiger heart and tiger meat together; as for the tiger skin, deal with it when you''re free, maybe make it into a nket or something."

    It was deep autumn, and the days were getting colder; tiger skin could be used for warmth.

    "Alright, you start by washing your face."

    Gu Xin turned and busied herself in the kitchen.

    One by one, dishes were brought to the table.

    Needless to say about the tiger heart and meat, there was beef, salted duck eggs, white rice, and on top of that, Blood Replenishing Soup made with medicinal herbs¡ªa very rich meal.

    Chen Sansi bit into the tiger heart.

    "Brother Shi, maybe... eat less of that," Gu Xin urged hesitantly, biting her lip and blushing.

    "Hm?"

    Chen Sansi paused.

    He remembered, after eating bear heartst time, his Qi-Blood was overly abundant, and he had given Sister Lan quite a tough time.

    "It''s okay."

    Chen Sansi continued to eat inrge bites: "I am not like before; I can control it now."

    Purchased alone, the tiger heart would cost at least thirty taels of silver or more, and that wasn''t even a sure deal.

    After all, Big Worms weren''t asmon as rabbits that you find everywhere.

    Having gulped down a few bites of tiger heart meat, Chen Sansi''s body began to heat up like fire, an effect even stronger than that of the bear heart. Besides, he also felt an overwhelming surge of aggression.

    As if he were that ferocious tiger, wanting to indulge in a bloodthirsty killing spree.

    Taking advantage of this vigor, Chen Sansi stuffed two mouthfuls of beef to sate his hunger and finished the simmering Blood Replenishing Soup before picking up the reed leaf gun and went into the courtyard to practice.

    In the depth of autumn, with many trees outside their home, dry leaves blown into the courtyard covered the ground.

    The long spear whistled, sweeping up the dried yellow leaves in the yard, as if thousands of butterflies were dancing gracefully around the youth. But these butterflies were exuding endless killing intent. They flew faster and faster, nearly turning into a tornado, as if they intended to shred everything that approached into dust.

    Intense killing intent yet breathtakingly beautiful.

    Gu Xin watched, almost mesmerized.

    How many days had it been?

    Just over a month ago, they were still worrying about paying the taxes.

    Now, not only were they well-fed and clothed, but the man had also learned a great martial arts skill. It was like living a dream.

    One practicing martial arts; one watching.

    Unknowingly, the sun set, and the twilight dimmed, with stars lighting up the night sky.

    Chen Sansi, drenched in sweat, finally stopped.

    "Whew..."

    He exhaled a long breath and nted the long spear under the plum tree in the courtyard.

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Spear Technique (Proficient)]

    [Progress: (120/1000)]

    [Utility: Gun Movement Swift and Fierce, Amazing Endurance, Qi-Blood Robust]

    "This tiger meat, truly is exceptionally effective!"

    "Tomorrow I''ll buy more Supplemental Medicine, within half a month, I must be able to break through to small achievement!"

    "Hiss..."

    Even after practicing spear technique for several hours, Chen Sansi still felt the effect of the tiger heart meat and Blood Replenishing Soup continuing to work, making his blood boil, but his muscles did indeed need a short rest.

    "Come, wipe your sweat."

    Gu Xin had already prepared a towel in advance, patiently and carefully wiping the young man''s forehead, "Hungry, right? What do you want to eat, eh!"

    Her delicate wrist was suddenly grasped tightly.

    "Brother Shi, what are you doing?"

    "Doing!"

    Chen Sansi directly picked up Sister Lan around the waist and headed straight for the bedroom.

    "I told you already, don''t eat so many Beast Hearts!"

    ...

    The next day.

    When Chen Sansi arrived at the military camp entrance, he just happened to encounter a troop of people returning covered in dust.

    Riding at the front was Luo Dongquan.

    In the middle of the troop, a cage held a man.

    The man wore the clothes of the Sheng Dynasty''smoners, but his appearance still seemed somewhat out of ce, creating a sense of dissonance.

    Luo Dongquan nced at him without saying a word and led the troop into the military camp.

    "Householder Xiong."

    Chen Sansi found Householder Xiong at the end of the troop, "This person, could it be..."

    "Yes, he''s from the Witch God Sect."

    Householder Xiong cursed and said, "This kid has got guts and audacity, we''re hunting them throughout the city, and he still dared to run off to the Spring Pavilion to seek out thedies!"

    "He''s got that much nerve?" Chen Sansi asked.

    "Of course!"

    Householder Xiong said, "If it weren''t for me being next door trying topete for Miss Ru Yan, who would have thought? A truly under-themp darkness!"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi didn''t care about this.

    What he cared about was the Immortal Treasure, "Have all the people from the Witch God Sect been caught?"

    "Not all of them."

    Householder Xiong touched his nose, "But it''ll be soon, we''ve caught one, aren''t we afraid we won''t make him reveal where the rest are hiding? It''ll only take a few more days."

    Chen Sansi sighed with relief.

    The affair wasn''t over, which meant the Immortal Treasure key hadn''t been found, and there was still a chance.

    Of course, he would act ording to circumstances and wouldn''t risk his life for it.

    After all, he held the box in his hands, he just needed to know whose hands the key fell into, and then he could n slowly.

    Watching the troop enter the military camp, Chen Sansi also busied with his own matters.

    He went to the Forge and stated his needs.

    The person in charge, a bare-chested middle-aged man named Niu Gai, had spectacrly developed muscles.

    Stopping his work, he wiped the sweat off his head with a torn cloth, "What weight of bow do you want?"

    "Ten-stone."

    Chen Sansi had only a few pieces of the tougher parts of the tiger bone left.

    "Tiger bone?"

    Niu Gai picked up the skull to feel it, "Recing cow horn, hard wood to make the bow is good, but to make the bow''s body, it''s slightlycking in resilience. I suggest you use Purple Gold Bamboo that''s over fifty years old. Even with that, it''s hard to make a Ten-stone Bow, at most six or seven stone."

    "Six or seven stone?"

    Chen Sansi asked, "How can a Ten-stone Bow be made?"

    He still hoped to make a heavy bow that would be effective for training so he wouldn''t have to keep changing bows and arrows.

    Niu Gai exined, "Generally, bowstrings are made from cow horn and cow tendon, with limited upper bounds. Even if you force a ten-stone pull strength bow, the practical utility would be very poor. Tiger tendon won''t work either, unless it''s from an Exotic Beast of the bovine species, or an even better Exotic Beast."

    "What about deer?"

    Chen Sansi paused, "I meant, an Exotic Beast White Deer."

    "Deer tendon is flexible, and Exotic Beasts are especially so, certainly it can be done."

    Niu Gai said, "If you can really find an Exotic Beast of the deer species, I can definitely make you a bow that surpasses ten-stone."

 Chapter 40 Encircling and Capturing the Witch God Sect

    "However, it''s agreed that you will cover the cost of the materials yourself."

    Niu Gai, counting on his fingers, said, "Fifty-year-old Purple Gold Bamboo, plus other rare materials, will cost at least fifty taels."

    "How much?!"

    Chen Sansi gasped in shock.

    "Did you think mutant Purple Gold Bamboo was easy to find?"

    Niu Gai bluntly stated, "Actually, if you ask me, a six or seven stone bow would suffice. If there''s really a war and you have a Crossbow Cart, why bother?"

    "Keep the tiger bone here for now."

    Chen Sansi didn''t n to change his decision, "When I get the Exotic Beast Tendon, you can make the bow."

    It looked like he really needed to find a way to get that White Deer.

    Exotic Beasts were rare and costly; acquiring the White Deer would ensure he wouldn''tck the fifty taels for materials.

    After parting with the craftsman, Chen Sansi returned to the barracks.

    After morning drills ended, he would routinely patrol the city in the afternoon.

    During a break, he went to buy medicinal materials, only to discover that the "Yun He" Medicine Store''s sign was dismantled and reced with "Yunhe."

    Was this because the Young Master waspletely devoured by his uncle, or what was happening?

    "Sir, you weren''t here yesterday and are unaware."

    Flocking to themotion, Xu Wencai saw his confusion, "The Young Master of Yunhe Martial Arts Hall recently advanced to the Bone Training Realm andst night he ambushed and killed his uncle, reiming his family property."

    "Advanced?"

    In Chen Sansi''s memory, wasn''t it said that the Young Master of Yunhe had mediocre talent and might be stuck in the Bone Training Realm for life?

    How much time has passed since his uncle usurped the family property, and now, suddenly, he''s advanced?

    Was he concealing his skills all along, or was there another exnation?

    Luckily, Yunhe Medicine Store resumed normal operations and didn''t raise the prices despite sessfully reiming his family property; it still maintained an 80% discount.

    "Two preparations of the Replenishing Essence Soup."

    Two paper packages tied with rope were handed over, costing fifty taels of silver.

    The silver he had earned from the tiger wasn''t even warm yet, and most of it had already been spent.

    Training in the Martial Arts Hall was indeed¡­ extortionate!

    But after all, it was an investment in himself; he couldn''t be stingy.

    After buying the medicine, it was also time to switch shifts and return to camp.

    "Mr. Xu."

    Chen Sansi found the old schr, "Do you have books that record exotic and rare beasts?"

    "Yes!"

    Xu Wencai hurriedly searched for the book.

    His wooden bed wasn''trge, with more than half covered in books, leaving just a small space for sleeping.

    Xu Wencai didn''t even search, he precisely and urately pulled out a book, specifically the one documenting exotic and rare beasts.

    "The book I took before, I haven''t finished yet; I''ll return it to you togetherter."

    Chen Sansi expressed his thanks, "Thank you, sir."

    "Why so formal, sir? If you want to read a book, juste and take it!"

    Xu Wencai was considerably diligent.

    "..."

    Chen Sansi knew, this guy was afraid of being deemed useless and kicked out; recently, he''d been calling him "Sir" very affectionately, to the point where it couldn''t be stopped, though there was actually no need for it.

    He took the book home, and while waiting for the meal to be prepared, he started flipping through it.

    The book, titled "Journey through Mountains and Rivers," was written over a thousand years ago by a traveler who loved exploring mountains and rivers, recording his experiences.

    "Further east three hundred li, called Standing Mountain, abundant in water, devoid of trees or grass. There lives a fish, its form resembling a cow, possessing..."

    The method of recording content in the book was simr to the "ssic of Mountains and Seas," which Chen Sansi had read before, and even some of the creatures were the same.

    "Further west three hundred li, at Xian Mountain... it abounds with chiming snakes, resembling snakes but with four wings, emitting sounds like nging, sighting these predicts a severe drought in that region."

    "It''s all silver!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Chen Sansi was engrossed as he read.

    He flipped a few more pages and finally saw what he was looking for.

    "Further south one hundred li, called Hu Mountain, there in lives a White Deer, with four horns on its head, ears that hear in all directions, feeds on treasure fungus, its meat slightly sour, greatly nourishing."

    White Deer.

    It looked like the Hu Mountain Range really did have one.

    "First, I''ll enhance my cultivation, and when I reach Small Sess in Blood Refining, I''ll head to the mountains in search of the White Deer."

    Chen Sansi closed the book.

    ...

    Time flies, and in the blink of an eye, it was October.

    The weather in the Northern Territory was growing increasingly cold.

    For ten consecutive days, Chen Sansi continued to perform his routine diligently.

    Martial arts practice, eating, patrolling the city.

    Regarding the Witch God Sect, it was said that the captive was very stubborn. After being tortured for seven consecutive days without confessing a single word, he found an opportunity to bite off his tongue andmitted suicide.

    Thus, the lead was broken, and the search of the city continued.

    Chen Sansi, however, was not in a hurry.

    Theter the things arrived, the more advantageous it was for him.

    At the Martial Arts Arena.

    Having just consumed a bowl of Replenishing Essence Soup, Chen Sansi felt every pore in his body heating up.

    The effect of the Replenishing Essence Soup was twice that of Blood Replenishing Soup.

    He cupped his fists and said, "Xu g Officer, today I would like to trouble you to exert your full strength."

    "Full strength?"

    Holding a saber, Xu Bin was momentarily stunned, "Are you sure?"

    "Sure."

    Chen Sansi nodded.

    At the same cultivation level, the opponent had long been unable to put any pressure on him.

    "Good!"

    Xu Bin did not refuse.

    He had wanted to give his all for a while.

    Not because he wanted to win, but because, with the same Qi-Blood, this youngster was too terrifying.

    In front of the young man, he was like a training dummy, posing no threat at all, relying solely on years of saber technique to avoid utter embarrassment.

    "Watch the saber!"

    Xu Bin shouted loudly as his Small Sess Level Qi-Blood suddenly erupted, charging forward and shing down with a saber as if a wild wolf was descending from the sky!

    Chen Sansi also went all out, with two streams of Qi-Blood condensing on his arms, turning his Lu Ye long spear into a blur of shadows.

    "ng, ng, ng, ng, ng¡ª"

    The sound of metal shing.

    Xu Bin was astonished to find.

    Even with his full strength, he could no longer suppress the young man. The opponent''s Blood Refining Mastery, in terms of pure strength, was not inferior to his, not to mention endurance.

    Within ten exchanges, Xu Bin''s hand that held the saber went numb, his vision blurred, and he began unable to predict from which direction the opponent''s long spear would thrust, his lower stance bing increasingly unstable and chaotic, until he finally fell to the ground.

    "Stop, stop, stop! No more fighting!"

    He hurriedly shouted.

    "ng!"

    Chen Sansi withdrew his spear and stepped forward to help him up: "Much obliged, Brother Bin!"

    Majestic Breathing Skill, advantage of long weapons, Gun Movement Swift, strong Qi-Blood...

    One advantage after another stacked up, he could indeed easily win against Blood Refining Minor Sess.

    "You... Are you about to reach Small Sess?"

    Xu Bin noticed something was amiss, "How many days has it been?"

    "Maybe I''ve taken a lot of supplemental medicine."

    Chen Sansi looked at the panel.

    [Cultivation Technique: Basics of Spear Technique (Mastery)]

    [Progress: (910/1000)]

    [Utility: Gun Movement Swift, amazing endurance, strong Qi-Blood]

    As he predicted, he would breakthrough to Small Sess within half a month.

    The silver totaling over several dozen taels was indeed not spent in vain.

    "I cannot apany you in training anymore."

    Xu Bin wiped the cold sweat away.

    This was too terrifying.

    It wasn''t a matter of supplemental medicine at all.

    If it were him, no matter how much supplemental medicine he took, he couldn''t possibly improve at this pace; instead, he might even get poisoned.

    This youngster could very well be a Refining Organ Martial Artist, or even higher in his lifetime!

    "Brother Bin, you''ve worked hard, I''ll treat you to a drink tonight."

    Chen Sansi knew well that sparring was not an easy task.

    "Done!" Xu Bin did not refuse.

    "Buzz¡ª"

    Just as the two were preparing to leave, the assembly call sounded unexpectedly.

    An Order Officer, riding a fast horse, sprinted between the military camp and the garrison, his voice loud and clear.

    "Three hundred garrison soldiers, assemble!"

    "Traces of the Witch God Sect discovered in Po Yang County city, assemble to encircle and suppress, assemble to encircle and suppress¡ª"

 Chapter 41 Insignificant Things

    "Assemble quickly!"

    "What are you dawdling for!"

    "Military orders are as mountainous, do you no longer value your lives!"

    Under the Order Officer''s urging, within the time it took to drink a cup of tea, all three hundred garrison soldiers had gathered.

    Chen Sansi was naturally among them.

    Leading the group were Householder Xiong and Households Commander Liu, with no sign of Xiang Tingchun.

    "Depart!"

    At themand, the entire army struck out.

    "This is really sudden."

    For Chen Sansi, it was his first time executing a real face-to-face mission with the enemy. "Where is Hundred Households Wang?"

    "He''s not here."

    Households Commander Liu came over and said, "This morning, under the pretense of hosting a banquet, Lord Thousand Households gathered all the masters of the Four Great Martial Arts Schools at the Eight Treasures Restaurant, then sent Hundred Households Wang and Hundred Households Luo to apany them with two hundred men. They haven''t returned yet."

    A banquet?

    This was likely holding the Martial Arts Halls under house arrest to prevent them from interfering with this operation.

    It seems that today they truly found the hiding ce of the Witch God Sect, and Xiang Tingchun was bound to obtain the Immortal Treasure.

    "It seems there''s no time to enhance my strength."

    "I''ll have to adapt as thingse!"

    Still, as always, Chen Sansi wouldn''t take too great a risk for a treasure.

    Xiang Tingchun was personally involved, and it had reached the level of fighting suited for Refining Organ Martial Artists; he couldn''t get involved even if he wanted to.

    He would act on opportunity.

    If there really was a chance, he would give it a try; if not, he would let it be.

    "Lord Thousand Households captures people just to capture them, but why keep the Martial Arts Halls under arrest? Is it rted to them letting blood?"

    Households Commander Liu and Householder Xiong also felt something was off.

    But the specific reason, if the higher-ups didn''t say, they wouldn''t ask.

    Some things are not better off known.

    "Sansi."

    Households Commander Liu patted his shoulder, "When we arrive at the locationter, you don''t need to rush forward. Just lead your men to block off the rear."

    "Fatty Wang really treats you well."

    Householder Xiong, carrying a battle-ax, added, "For this matter, he even remarkably agreed to invite us to Spring Pavilion."

    "Thank you, both Householders Commanders."

    Chen Sansi stepped back to find his men.

    "Haha!"

    Zhu Tong seemed somewhat excited.

    He had broken through in Blood Refining a few days ago and was fretting about having no ce to use his martial skills, "Let me kill some barbarians!"

    Xu Wencai was visibly trembling, clutching a spear more like a crutch in his grasp, he stammered, "Sir, I heard that the followers of the Witch God Sect kill without blinking; I really don''t know any martial arts!"

    "Useless, you better run then."

    Zhu Tong, as always, kept cursing him, "You coward!"

    "I, Xu Wen, am not afraid to die!"

    Xu Wencai clung to his spear and dered loudly, "I''m just afraid of dying... unnoticed!"

    "Tch!" Zhu Tong couldn''t be bothered to engage.

    Military soldier Wang Li was rtively calm, "g officer, sir, what should we doter?"

    "Follow the Commands of the Householders Commanders."

    Chen Sansi looked at his men, "Don''t be frightened, it''s just a siege. The real experts will be handled by Households Commander Xiang, we''ll most likely just be blocking off the road. Besides, since the day we enlisted, we knew this day woulde."

    "Sir''s right."

    Wang Li agreed, "Rather than being at a total loss when we really go into battle someday, better to take this chance for a trial."

    The group joined the ranks.

    The three hundred men marched mightily towards the direction of Po Yang County.

    But their destination was not the county town.

    Five miles outside the South City Gate of Po Yang County, there was a temple known as the Golden Bell Temple, where followers of the Witch God Sect had been hiding until yesterday when one of the local military soldiers, who had gone to offer prayers, spotted something suspicious and reported it to themander.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    ...

    Outside the South City Gate, there was a small hill.

    At the foot of the hill, a two-story high bluestone stele was erected, carved with the words "Golden Bell Temple."

    Beside the stele, a winding staircase led up step by step, where lines of devout pilgrims queued up to reach the vermilion temple situated at the mid-slope; although there were many people, the ce was exceptionally quiet. Only the buildings veiled by ancient pines asionally let out the sound of the bell and wafts of faint incense smoke.

    Outside the temple, there was a teahouse where pilgrims could rest.

    Xiang Tingchun, dressed in casual clothes, sat on a long bench, sipping his tea calmly.

    By his side, sat two simrly dressed military soldiers.

    One was surnamed Feng and the other Zhao.

    Households Commander Feng whispered with his head down, "My lord, the garrison should arrive within the time of half an incense stick, encircling the Golden Bell Temple, but... should we not evacuate the civilians?"

    "Evacuate?"

    Xiang Tingchun, expressionless, toyed with his tea cup, "If we evacuate them, wouldn''t that be the same as signaling the Witch God Sect followers?"

    "But..."

    Households Commander Feng said with a distressed expression, "There are about twenty people from the Witch God Sect, and it''s bound to cause a bigmotion. If we don''t evacuate, I''m afraid many innocent bystanders will be injured."

    Xiang Tingchun''s voice was icy, "What does it matter if a few peasants die?"

    "Lord Thousand Households... you..."

    Feng and Zhao, the two Households Commanders, were at a loss for what to say.

    "To aplish something, there''s always a price to pay, isn''t that right?"

    Xiang Tingchun gently ced down his tea cup, speaking in a deep tone, "For one to seed, thousands must perish; that is always the way of the world."

    "But they are civilians." Households Commander Feng mustered his courage, "I think we should still..."

    "Enough."

    Xiang Tingchun interrupted, "Feng Yong, Zhao Kang, listen to my orders!

    "You two, lead a team of elite soldiers and infiltrate the temple disguised as pilgrims with me, and make sure that Liu Jinkui and Xiong Qiuan block every path down the hill. Let one escape, and you''ll answer to me!"

    "Yes!"

    Feng and Zhao dared not say more, quickly leaving to convey the orders.

    ...

    After three hundred garrison soldiers left the city, under themand of various military officers, they dispersed and surrounded the small hill where Golden Bell Temple was located from all sides, the whole process being swift and silent.

    Chen Sansi and Fang Zongqi, along with fifty men, were positioned at a pathway down the hill''s nk, lying in ambush within the dense foliage on both sides, tasked with trapping anyone trying to escape.

    Fang Zongqi issued orders at just the right volume so everyone could hear clearly:

    "Spear soldiers are responsible for blocking the path, archers find a spot with a clear view, shield and de soldiers protect the spearmen, and be ready to kill anyone who gets close!

    "For each Witch God Sect follower''s head, military soldiers are rewarded with a bowl of Blood Replenishing Soup, and Array Soldiers with three ounces of silver. Higher ranks are rewarded separately!

    "When someone fires a whistle arrow from the mountain, it means the battle has started!

    "Lord Thousand Households'' order, no one is to be spared alive!"

    After these orders, nearly fifty people took their positions.

    "Sir... sir!"

    Xu Wencai''s red hat was askew on his head, and he could hardly hold his spear steadily: "I really don''t know martial arts!"

    "Mr. Zhu."

    Chen Sansi began, "Keep an eye on him when the fight really starts."

    "Brother Chen, just indulge this old guy!"

    Zhu Tong was holding a long spear, with a ck Iron Hammer strapped to his back,plementing the cultivation technique he practiced, though he also held a standard issue long spear.

    Before bing a military officer, martial soldiers likewise needed to integrate into military formations on the battlefield, without disrupting the formation, only military officers had the freedom tomand and move as needed.

    "Get over here!"

    Zhu Tong, as if plucking a chicken, pulled Xu Wencai over to his side.

    The crowd fell silent, the atmosphere in the woodsden with tension.

    Many among them had never truly fought with real swords and spears, so how could they not be anxious? Thankfully, there were enough of them that it wasn''t too frightening.

    "Chiu¡ª"

    It was unclear how much time had passed when a sharp cry rang out, breaking the eerie silence.

 Chapter 42 The Masked Man

    Golden Bell Temple.

    The back courtyard''s Zen rooms.

    Two barbarians disguised as monks are kneeling on futons.

    Outside, the sh of weapons and screams of agony are ceaseless.

    "Squad Leader."

    The thin-lipped monk is uneasy, "Xiang Tingchun has sent people to surround Golden Bell Temple, what should we do? If the Jade Key also falls into their hands, wouldn''t that be..."

    The man referred to as Squad Leader is calmer.

    He takes out a piece of jade from his bosom and hands it to the thin-lipped monk.

    "Squad Leader?!"

    The thin-lipped monk is panicked, "This is absolutely impossible, the Immortal Treasure is of utmost importance, how can it be entrusted to me?"

    "Xiang Tingchun knows me."

    The Squad Leader speaks indifferently, "He will surely fixate on me, and with the object in my possession, it will be even less safe. I will hold off the man named Xiang; you find a way to escape. If there''s really no way, then hide the Jade Key."

    The thin-lipped monk carefully epts the object, "Do we really have to die here today? It''s all because of that damn traitor who handed over the Immortal Treasure so easily. Otherwise, Tuoba Yuwen''s two divisions would have united the grasnd long ago, and seizing the Great Sheng Court''s ce would be within reach!"

    "There''s no need to panic so much."

    The middle-aged man truly resembles a high monk who has attained enlightenment, speaking soothingly and serenely, "Even if we fail, the Sect Hierarch and Great Khan still have other ns; at worst, we would just trade benefits with the old Emperor of the Sheng Dynasty.

    "He''sing soon, you should go."

    "Yes!"

    The thin-lipped monk takes the Jade Key and disappears out the window.

    "Bang¡ª"

    A corpse crashes into the wooden door of the Zen room like a boulder.

    Xiang Tingchun steps over the corpse and into the room, the He Miao Long Sword in his hand still dripping blood. He speaks deliberately, "Give me the object."

    "Sigh~"

    The Squad Leader sighs lightly, taking two copper maces from behind, "Lord Thousand Households, you don''t even know what the Immortal Treasure is, why go to such great lengths?"

    "After you''re dead, I''ll naturally figure it out."

    Inside the Zen room, the sword light flickers.

    ...

    About twenty minutes after the whistle arrow was fired.

    People began to flee from the mountain to the side guarded by the troops.

    "Get ready!"

    Fang Zongqi raises his hand, preparing to give an order.

    "Help!"

    "The monks at Golden Bell Temple are killing people!"

    "..."

    As the crowd draws closer, the officers and soldiers realize something is wrong.

    The number of people running down the mountain is close to a hundred.

    The Witch God Sect isn''t attacking with arge army; taking back roads through the wild and sneaking in dozens of people might be possible, but how could there be so many?

    It''s clear at a nce that most of them aremon folks.

    "Wait a moment!"

    Fang Zongqi quickly stops the archers who are ready to shoot and shouts to the crowd, "Stop! No one goes down the mountain; everyone, stop!"

    "Sir, there is a monk killing people at Golden Bell Temple!"

    "Save me, sir, let me go, please let me go!"

    "..."

    The frantic crowd isn''t willing to listen.

    "Spit¡ª"

    Fang Zongqi draws his Crescent Moon Curved de and sternly rebukes, "I am telling you to stop, don''t you understand! Anyone who takes one more step forward will be treated as a Witch God Sect Follower and summarily executed!"

    Seeing the shing silver de, the people are forced to halt.

    Chen Sansi witnesses the chaotic scene and knows that many innocents are bound to die today.

    It seems that to avoid rming the enemy, this Lord Thousand Households would rather more civilians die.

    "Nobody move! Whoever moves will be shot dead!"

    g Leader Fang spoke cautiously, "Horse g Officer! Most followers of the Witch God Sect are barbarians. Take a squad, go up there, and scrutinize each one!"

    Fortunately, they were aliens, and even if they disguised themselves in clothing and makeup, their facial features and ents were still distinguishable. Plus, by questioning them about their family backgrounds and residences, and despite taking some time, one could eventually identify them.

    There was no hiding it any longer.

    The Witch God Sect followers in the crowd couldn''t hold back any longer.

    A man pretending to be a wealthy elder raised his hand and struck, pping the heart on the back of an old man in front of him.

    The old man spewed a mist of blood and died on the spot.

    The crowd that had just been brought under control once again erupted into chaos, everyone screaming and panicking, fleeing in all directions.

    "Brothers, kill! Carve a blood path¡ª"

    The followers of the Witch God Sect no longer hid their identity, revealing their hidden weapons and began killing in the confusion.

    "Do not panic!"

    g Leader Fang shouted, shing with that wealthy pretender, without forgetting to direct, "Form squads with the men from each small g, assist each other, and create formations to encircle and kill!!!"

    The Witch God Sect devotees were clearly trying to scatter and escape.

    So the numbers they encountered were notrge, about seven or eight, and without any Bone Forger Realm masters among them, it seemed the masters had already broken through elsewhere.

    Chen Sansi,manding his men and coordinating with another g officer, circled around a one-eyed man.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Zhu Tong, Wang Li, and others, wielding spears, jabbed at the follower from all directions.

    The man had the strength of the Blood Refining Early Stage and dual-wielded swords, wildly shing and chopping. He managed to approach by sheer brute force, but was quickly pushed back by soldiers with shields and swords, and was once again caught in a desperate struggle.

    Add to that, there was a g officer on the army''s side, also in the Blood Refining Early Stage, coordinating the attack. Within less than ten exchanges, the Witch God Sect follower revealed numerous ws and was stabbed all over by the chaotic spears, bleeding from multiple wounds.

    This was the might of the military!

    Those sects in Jianghu could not match this fighting strength.

    Chen Sansi wasn''t idle either; he would draw his Big Bow fully, and upon the string''s release, the arrow would soar.

    The Wolf Teeth Arrow flew through the gaps in the chaotic crowd, piercing through the face of a Witch God Sect follower over a hundred paces away, nailing the head onto a tree trunk with a thud, causing instantaneous, painless death.

    "Die¡ª"

    A Blood Refining Early Stage Witch God Sect follower approached from the nk, raising a Crescent Moon Curved de in an attempt to ambush.

    How could Chen Sansi''s keen hearing not detect him?

    Anticipating this moment, Chen Sansi turned and shot an arrow just as the attacker raised his de.

    Being no more than ten steps apart, the impact from the arrow carried the attacker backward, and before he even fell to the ground, he was caught up by a long spear, the de slicing through his neck, severing the head from the body. Like a kicked ball, the head rolled far along the slope with a rumble.

    The melee did notst long.

    The army''s side had more people and quickly entrapped the Witch God Sect devotees, who, despite their stubborn resistance, probably couldn''t hold out for much longer.

    "I wonder how the main battlefield is doing."

    Chen Sansi looked toward the direction of the Golden Bell Temple.

    Had Xiang Tingchun gotten what he desired?

    He held his reed leaf gun, ready to help quickly resolve the fight.

    "Swoosh¡ª"

    Dozens of yards away, the sound of branches being broken underfoot arose.

    Someone hidden for a long time was trying to escape amidst the chaos.

    An escapee!

    Upon hearing the noise, Chen Sansi immediately gave chase.

    Through the trees, he could vaguely see a brownish-yellow figure sh by.

    The forest ahead was dense, obstructing most of the view.

    Chen Sansi, relying on his hearing and the footprints on the ground, pursued cautiously, not taking any rash actions since he didn''t know the capability of his opponent; it''s always wise to be careful.

    It wasn''t until he had covered several miles and the view became clearer that he finally caught sight of the person he sought.

    A pointed-mouthed and cheeky monk d in a monk''s robe but with earring holes in his ears, clearly not dressing in the style of the Sheng Dynasty''smoners.

    Chen Sansi nocked an arrow, ready to shoot, when another group quickly approached.

    This group carried ordinary long swords, each wearing ck clothes and masking their faces with ck cloths. There were four of them in total, blocking all escape routes and stopping the pointed-mouthed monk.

    A third-party force?

    Chen Sansi recognized someone familiar among the masked people: "Is it him?"

    He concealed his breath and hid, watching secretly.

 Chapter 43 Immortal Treasure

    "Stop right there!"

    The masked leader''s de pointed at the person, "A follower of the Witch God Sect?"

    "Amitabha!"

    The sharp-nosed monk pressed his palms together, "Sirs, please do not speak nonsense, this humble monk is a monk from the Golden Bell Temple."

    "A monk? Then why are you running around in such a panic?!"

    The masked man barked coldly, "Cut the crap, with that face, who could you fool? Meet your death!"

    No more words were wasted.

    All four of them made their move simultaneously.

    The monk didn''t hesitate either; his hands, at some point, were already quietly equipped with a pair of gloves wrapped with iron wire, directly shing with the sword''s de, instantly sparking and creating sounds like that of cksmithing.

    "Both this monk and the leading masked man are in the Bone Training Realm!"

    Chen Sansi could tell that their power clearly surpassed that of the Blood Refining Warriors; they were both adept at bone training.

    Especially the sharp-nosed monk, who seemed frail, but was incredibly fierce in action, his aura was just like that of a fierce tiger from Second Layer Mountain.

    Apart from the masked leader, the others were no match.

    In just a few exchanges, they all suffered injuries, holding their swords, not daring to approach, covering from a distance.

    The masked leader and the monk were locked in fiercebat.

    When the fight was at a deadlock, another figure silently appeared,unching a surprise attack from behind.

    It was yet another practitioner of bone training.

    Two against one, the monk finally started to falter.

    "Hiss¡ª"

    The masked leader found an opportunity,nding a sword strike on the monk''s shoulder.

    The sword did not cut off the entire arm as imagined, but got stuck in the middle after cleaving through bone, unable topletely sever it.

    ''Is this bone training?''

    ''Are bones really so hard that swords have trouble cutting through?''

    ''I''m afraid even my two-stone bow wouldn''t be able to kill a bone training martial artist directly.''

    ''It seems that getting a ten-stone bow is imperative.''

    Chen Sansi continued to watch the battle.

    Anybat at a higher realm than his was helpful in gaining experience.

    On the battlefield, the situation became gradually clear.

    Ultimately, even a double-fisted monk could hardly fend off four hands, and after being struck by a sword, the disadvantage quickly widened. The Blood Refining Warriors, who had only dared to watch from afar, also moved in to look for an opportunity to deliver the finishing blow.

    "Hiss hiss hiss¡ª"

    The sounds of des tearing through clothing resounded one after another.

    The fake monk was like someone sshed with a coat of red paint; though the bones were hard to break, the flesh had been stripped off in many ces, some still clinging to his body, shaking as if they might fall off at any moment, looking extremely unsettling.

    Finally, the masked leader found an opportunity, thrusting a sword into the Witch God Sect follower''s carotid artery.

    Blood spurted like a fountain; he fell stiffly to the ground, his eyes wide open in death.

    "Search!"

    The masked men quickly began searching the body, but found nothing.

    "Nothing on him, the Immortal Treasure isn''t with him!"

    "Should the young master consider going up the mountain?"

    "The item is most likely already in Xiang Tingchun''s possession."

    "Let''s go; we came here to scavenge, if we can''t find anything, then that''s that. Getting caught by Xiang Tingchun would be the end for us. It looks like we''re going to have to pay a high price after all."

    "Take the body and withdraw!"

    Listening to the conversation, Chen Sansi confirmed the guess in his mind.

    The masked men were Liang Zhan and that old servant!

    This Young Master, despite rumors of spending his days in brothels, had not fallen behind in cultivation. At twenty-five or twenty-six years of age, assuming he had practiced martial arts for ten years, reaching the Bone Training Realm was definitely outstanding in Po Yang County.

    "To kill him, I still need to improve my strength."

    Chen Sansi had not forgotten that Liang hade looking for him. If it weren''t for Wang Zhi''s presence, although it wouldn''t have been life-threatening, it wouldn''t have been pleasant.

    Feeling controlled by others was truly unbearable.

    He didn''t linger, returning the same way he hade.

    "Did Xiang Tingchun really get the Immortal Treasure?"

    Chen Sansi felt regretful.

    But he always felt that something was not quite right.

    Carefully thinking about it, Witch God Sect followers blending in with themon people is actually not a good way to get away.

    The military had already arrived, and even if they were truly ordinary people, they would definitely scrutinize their ancestry back to the eighteenth generation before releasing anyone after confirming there were no issues.

    Compared to slipping through unnoticed, they seem more like they were trying to attract attention.

    Had it not been for Chen Sansi, in such a chaotic scene where even the snapping of branches dozens of meters away could be heard clearly, no one would''ve noticed the fake monk.

    But there was nothing on him.

    Hidden away?

    Chen Sansi couldn''t help but recall the scene when he first got the Linglong Jade Box.

    With a try-and-see attitude, he searched along the way back, not finding any signs of the soil having been disturbed.

    "Am I overthinking it?"

    "Wait a minute."

    A bird''s call above him drew his attention to a pine tree''s bark, which had fresh signs of being stripped off.

    Chen Sansi immediately climbed up and at the highest point of the trunk, he found a fist-sized tree hole.

    "There''s a snake!"

    With quick eyes and hands, he pressed down on the snake''s head and pulled it out.

    Experience exclusive tales on empire

    It was a poisonous green snake.

    Looking inside the hole, there was nothing else.

    However, there were bloodstains on the snake''s lower jaw, as if it had been torn apart by someone, and scales were missing from its body.

    "Could it be..."

    Without hesitation, Chen Sansi used both hands to pry the snake''s jaws apart, yanking to both sides, tearing the snake in half, and there it was¡ªa piece of green jade stone, the very Jade Key recorded in the "Dasheng Book"!

    "Stuffing things inside a snake''s belly, that''s quite clever!"

    He couldn''t help but admire the ingenuity of whoever did this.

    Even if one made a mark on the snake, it may not be possible to find itter.

    It seemed that the Witch God Sect would rather lose the item than let it fall into someone else''s hands.

    It must be said that this method was indeed effective.

    Any normal person would never have found such tiny traces.

    But he happened to encounter them.

    Chen Sansi secured the jade stone and ripped out the snake''s galldder.

    The green snake wasn''t worth much, but every little bit counts.

    After everything was done, he threw the snake''s carcass back into the hole; before long, other animals woulde along, lured by the scent of blood, and clean it up.

    "Looks like Households Commander Xiang has made a wasted trip this time."

    Chen Sansi returned to the foot of the mountain; the chaos was still not over.

    The Witch God Sect followers were stubbornly resisting; the remaining two or three even took themon people as human shields and ran in different directions.

    Indeed, they were covering for the fake monk.

    After the fake monk had left, the Witch God Sect followers began to think of ways to save themselves.

    The people from the garrison had spread out in pursuit, their ranks were quite thin, and no one was paying attention to Chen Sansi''s movements.

    It was not until dusk that thest Witch God Sect follower was captured, and the clean-up of the battlefield began.

    In terms of casualties, three garrison soldiers died, and two were injured.

    Among the two who died, just one was a military soldier; the rest were Array Soldiers.

    But they killed seven Witch God Sect members and captured one alive¡ªall Blood Refining Warriors.

    Indeed, there''s strength in numbers.

    After all, they had one g leader and five small gs on their side; if the scene hadn''t been so chaotic, preventing archers from being of much use, it would''ve been entirely possible to suffer even fewer casualties.

    "I killed a Blood Refining Mastery and a small achievement; I should be able to exchange for a few bowls of Blood Replenishing Soup."

    Chen Sansi was calcting.

    His subordinates were also gradually returning, with no casualties, and having jointly killed two people.

    "Okay, stop hugging me!"

    Zhu Tong impatiently pushed Xu Wencai away, "It''s all over, look at you being such a scaredy-cat!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Whistle¡ª"

    The whistle arrow was fired again.

    Three hundred garrison soldiers were ordered to assemble in front of the Golden Bell Temple.

    Xiang Tingchun, with bloodstained clothes, slowly walked out of the temple gate; his He Miao de was broken, and there was blood at the corner of his mouth, but the human head he held in his hand dered that he had won this murderous battle.

 Chapter 44 Lamp Oil

    Two hundred householdmanders stepped forward to report the summary of the operation.

    About a month ago, followers of the Witch God Sect sneaked into Po Yang County and coerced the abbot of the Golden Bell Temple to help them conceal their identities.

    As for the specific reasons, they are still unclear.

    "My lord, in this crackdown, we have in a total of twenty-eight followers of the Witch God Sect, including six in the Bone Training realm, and fifteen in the Blood Refining level.

    "In terms of numbers, it is about the same as the previous round-up.

    "We have also interrogated all the temple visitors and local residents on the mountain, and only let them go after confirming they were not involved; those who could not be immediately identified have already been imprisoned in the county government''s jail."

    Liu Jinkui, clenching his fists, said, "Theoretically speaking, it would be very difficult for anyone to escape."

    "Very difficult~"

    Xiang Tingchun''s eyes were like those of an eagle, staring at them; "Does that mean, however, that someone slipped through?"

    "Please forgive us, my lord!"

    Liu Jinkui knelt on one knee: "The Witch God Sect is treacherous and cunning, using civilians as human shields. The situation was indeed too chaotic. But even if a few got away, they were just minions and would surely not dare to cause trouble again in the future!"

    There are some things Xiang Tingchun couldn''t say outright.

    He fell silent for a moment, then spoke again: "Evacuate the Golden Bell Temple. Gather all the followers of the Witch God Sect, dead or alive, together. I will personally verify them."

    "Yes, sir!"

    The bloody battle was thoroughly over.

    But most of that blood was that of the civilians.

    By rough estimates, at least forty to fifty people were dead.

    "Such sin!"

    On the way down the mountain, Xu Wencai kept muttering, "If I were inmand, I certainly wouldn''t have let so many die in vain."

    "Keep dreaming,"

    Zhu Tong was also very dissatisfied with today''s events: "Damn it, I thought Xiang Tingchun was something special, turns out he''s just another ruthless character willing to achieve his goals by any means necessary."

    "Do you two no longer wish to keep your tongues?!"

    Fang Zongqi cast a warning nce at them.

    "My lord, I was just joking, Commander Xiang''s leadership was exquisite!"

    Xu Wencai immediately changed his tune.

    Zhu Tong, however, just scoffed and said no more.

    "Sigh¡­"

    Fang Zongqi shook his head but did not pursue the matter further: "At least we have eradicated the followers of the Witch God Sect; no more people will die because of them."

    Lately, there had been no shortage of mysterious disappearances around Po Yang County.

    Chen Sansi walked silently at the edge.

    For the bureaucrats of the ancient feudal dynasty, what were themon people?

    They were nothing more than NPCs in their simtion games, created for the value of production; as long as one could gain greater benefits from an incident, the loss of many NPCs was nothing more than a number to them.

    It served Xiang Tingchun right toe back empty-handed.

    Moreover, he couldn''t openly investigate the matter.

    After all, it was done covertly, behind the court''s back.

    "The Jade Box and the key are in hand."

    Chen Sansi quickened his pace: "I want to see for myself what this object is that they fought so fiercely over."

    ...

    With just onemand, over eighty monks of the Golden Bell Temple were thrown into prison, and the entire temple was evacuated and sealed, forbidding anyone to go up the mountain without permission.

    Inside the Great Hall.

    The bodies of over twenty Witch God Sect followers were neatly lined up beneath the Golden Body of The Buddha, while Xiang Tingchun, holding a short knife, individually slit their bellies open, allowing blood and organs to spill out all over the floor.

    Where''s the object?! The squad leader is dead, and the followers are captured.

    For this, Xiang Tingchun had also suffered a minor injury, yet couldn''t find what he was looking for?

    He had turned the entire Golden Bell Temple upside down.

    Footsteps sounded from outside the hall.

    Luo Dongquan stepped into the Great Hall, involuntarily retreating half a step upon seeing the filth on the floor, and saluted with his fist: "My lord, I have returned."

    Xiang Tingchun, angered, threw the short knife aside and asked in a deep voice, "At today''s banquet, did any Martial Arts Hall Master leave midway?"

    "Replying to my lord."

    Luo Dongquan answered: "The masters of the Four Great Martial Arts Schools, Tianyuan, Tai Lei, Zhao, and Yun He, were all present at the Eight Treasures Restaurant. Wang Zhi and I were watching them the whole time."

    Xiang Tingchun then asked, "What about their subordinates?"

    "They were also there."

    Luo Dongquan, lowering his head: "The Martial Arts Academy Disciples above the Bone Training Realm were all called to the Eight Treasures Building by me; not one was missing."

    "You, are you sure?!"

    Xiang Tingchun emphasized.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Luo Dongquan''s head hung even lower, almost touching the ground: "This subordinate is sure!"

    "Old Luo, there''s no need to be so nervous. I trust your work."

    Xiang Tingchun folded his arms behind his back and paced back and forth in the hall.

    He felt stifled inside.

    It seemed that the item had most likely been taken away by someone who had slipped through the.

    "My lord."

    Luo Dongquan asked, "Could it be that the Immortal Treasure has not been found?"

    Xiang Tingchun narrowed his eyes and after pondering for a moment, he spoke:

    "Old Luo, go tell the Four Great Martial Arts Schools that I have the item in my possession.

    "If they want it, they can have it, but they must exchange something for it.

    "First, I want an ample supply of medicinal herbs, at least doubling the amount for everyone in the garrison.

    "Second, the Four Great Martial Arts Schools and the local gentry must donate silver and grain to support my military campaign next spring.

    "Third, all the martial arts schools in the city must provide me with a total of three hundred men, with no fewer than three skilled in Bone Training.

    "If they meet these three conditions, I will give them the Immortal Treasure." Find exclusive content at empire

    Luo Dongquan could not believe it: "My lord, isn''t this a bit too harsh?"

    "Harsh?"

    Xiang Tingchun scoffed, "Do you know what old man Liang told me on the night of the incident?

    "He said that with the Immortal Treasure, within twenty years, I could make it to the position of the Great General of the Left Army Governor Mansion, and the Four Great Martial Arts Schools could also be stationed in the Capital City, joining the ranks of the first-ss martial arts schools.

    "Compared to that, what''s the harm in spending some money and shedding some blood?"

    "My lord is wise."

    Luo Dongquan said, "With money and resources, it seems that as soon as the Ministry of War''s approvales through, my lord will be able to achieve great things next year."

    "By the way, Old Luo."

    Xiang Tingchun changed the subject: "You are nearing the Refining Internal stage yourself. It so happens that I remember Liang Feng has a few rare medicinal herbs. Demand them as well and I''ll share half with you."

    "Lord Thousand Households is so considerate. This subordinate will repay you with his life!"

    Luo Dongquan thanked him and was about to carry out the orders.

    "One more thing."

    Xiang Tingchun stopped him: "In a while, the new county magistrate will arrive. For some reason, the Selection Officer from the Governor Mansion ising ahead of time as well. Make sure you arrange things properly when the timees, and don''t let what happenedst time ur again."

    "Yes!"

    Luo Dongquanplied with the order.

    Xiang Tingchun watched his retreating figure, his gaze deep.

    The Immortal Treasure...

    Either the Witch God Sect sessfully took it away or it was hidden near the Golden Bell Temple.

    If it was the former, there was nothing that could be done, but if it was thetter, he could still search slowly.

    In any case, he should first fool the martial arts schools into paying up. Any longer and it would be toote.

    "The emperor ns to cultivate a group of new generals in the Northern Territory. Just one impressive battle would be enough to draw attention.

    "Once the Supervisor steps down, I''m sure to be taken under the wing of the new Supervisor."

    The Xiang family has been confined to thend of Po Yang County for three generations.

    In his lifetime, Xiang Tingchun was determined to break out no matter what.

    Even if it meant using the people of Po Yang as stepping stones, it didn''t matter.

    ...

    The garrison.

    After assisting with headcount, Chen Sansi hurried back to his home, dug out the Linglong Jade Box from the underground of the backyard, and then returned to his bedroom, locking the door behind him. He pulled out the key from his pocket.

    The key was made of pure jade, intricately built, and not only was the patternplex, but the tip was irregr in shape and just so happened to fit the lock of the box perfectly.

    Just as the records had stated, one box to one jade key. If the jade key was destroyed, not even the gods themselves could open the box.

    He inserted the jade key and turned the mechanism.

    With a "click," the wooden box opened.

    Inside was another iron box.

    Fortunately, the iron box didn''t need another key to be unlocked.

    He lifted the lid.

    Inside was filled with a pale yellow substance, slightly warm and soft to the touch, somewhat resembling animal fat.

    "Lamp oil?"

 Chapter 45 Blood Refining Minor Success

    "Just a box ofmp oil?"

    Chen Sansi didn''t believe it.

    He re-examined the Linglong Jade Box, confirmed there was nothing else inside except the self-destruction mechanism, and that there were no secretpartments.

    The Witch God Sect, Xiang Tingchun, the Martial Arts Halls.

    Was this the thing that all these forces were desperately fighting over?

    ording to Chen Sansi''s summary, neither the Martial Arts Halls nor Xiang Tingchun necessarily knew what the Immortal Treasure was; the only one with insider knowledge, the Witch God Sect, were all tight-lipped and refused to divulge anything.

    It definitely couldn''t be this simple.

    Chen Sansi went to the doorway of the kitchen, scooped out a very small amount ofmp oil with his finger, and gently applied it to the wooden log used for splitting firewood. Then, he found a Fire Stick and blew a tiny me onto it.

    "Boom¡ª¡ª"

    The moment the tiny me made contact with themp oil, a fiery red ze erupted violently, as if a fire dragon burrowed out from the void, instantly climbing to a height of two to three meters.

    In just a few breaths, the wooden log was reduced to ashes.

    You should know, this log was half a meter in diameter and thirty centimeters high. Normal mes would struggle to light it, and if it wasn''t split open, burning itpletely to ash would likely take a full day and night!

    Even at a distance of two steps away, Chen Sansi felt he was almost roasted!

    What sort of power was this?

    What kind of animal fat was this, that the mes it burned with were so terrifying!

    "Definitely not amon item," Chen Sansi admitted, somewhat shaken.

    The substance was powerful, but why were they so desperate to get it?

    To use as a weapon?

    He weighed the iron box, half the size of a palm in his hand.

    So little of it, how many times could it be used?

    That shouldn''t warrant such a scramble, right?

    Chen Sansi judged that the fire must have another purpose.

    He inspected the Linglong Jade Box once again, and after repeated confirmations, concluded.

    Indeed, there was nothing else.

    It seemed the method of using the me might lie in the hands of the Witch God Sect.

    That... was a dead end for now.

    A small disappointment welled up in Chen Sansi''s heart.

    However, the fire was very powerful, and it could indeede in handy at a critical moment.

    As for its true purpose, that would have to be figured out one step at a time.

    "My current goal is to be a Selected Point and enter the Eight Camps."

    "I need to enhance my strength as soon as possible!"

    Chen Sansi tidied up the items, preparing to rest well for the night, to rejuvenate.

    He was only a windowpane away from a breakthrough.

    ...

    The next day, at the military camp.

    Chen Sansi drank a bowl of Replenishing Essence Soup and, while his Qi-blood was at its peak, picked up the long spear and practiced the soldier''s basic spear technique he had already mastered.

    It was noon, and the sun was high in the sky.

    Suddenly, a thundering sound of breaking the air rang out on the empty Martial Arts Arena.

    It made the nearby soldiers turn their heads to look.

    Under the sunlight, every movement of the reed leaf gun reflected blinding golden light off its tip. As the long spear swung faster and faster, the golden lights began to connect with each other.

    From a distance, it appeared as if a Golden Snake was wildly dancing in the void or as if a golden brush was painting majestdscapes, creating an urge in onlookers to draw closer. Yet, the continuous fierce sounds of the air being torn apart reminded everyone that this wasn''t a beautiful scene, but a lethal martial technique!

    The long spear whistled, the figure moved swiftly.

    The scene of shing lightssted for the time it would take half an incense stick to burn.

    Enjoy exclusive adventures from empire

    Then, at a certain moment, everything suddenly stopped.

    All the golden light converged to a single point and, at a speed invisible to the naked eye,nded on the training post of the Martial Arts Arena.

    "Bang¡ª¡ª"

    The Training Post, as thick as an adult man''s shoulder and two meters high, exploded outwards from the point of impact, scattering wooden splinters and chips all around, flying far beforending in the ground like a rain of arrows.

    Curious soldiers who loved excitement nearly got hit by the flying splinters and copsed on the ground, thoroughly shaken.

    The youth slowly withdrew his spear, his defined and toned muscles glossed with sweat. Under the autumn sun, his body appeared enshrouded in steaming white vapor, as if he had emerged from mes.

    Small achievement!

    Two strands of Qi-blood turned into four, merging into the limbs!

    [Cultivation Technique: Soldier''s Basic Spear Technique (small achievement)]

    [Progress: (0/2000)]

    [Utility: Gun Movement Swift, amazing endurance, robust Qi-blood, Blood Birth Phenomenon]

    The newly added effect confused Chen Sansi for a moment.

    Blood Birth Phenomenon.

    Does it refer to the blood undergoing some change?

    He tried to mobilize his Qi-Blood, and noticed that his blood was exceptionally hot. Compared to before, each surge of Qi-Blood had more explosive power.

    Could it be rted to the Bone Training Realm after Blood Refining?

    "Congrattions, Chen Qigu!"

    Many people came up to congratte him.

    Fang Zongqi said with emotion, "Such talent really makes the rest of us envious!"

    "It''s just that I''ve spent more silver,"

    Chen Sansi said modestly: "If I hadn''t hunted for money to buy medicines, my breakthrough wouldn''t havee this quickly."

    "What you say, isn''t hunting a skill too?"

    Fang Zongqi was even more envious.

    As martial masters who had achieved Great Sess in Blood Refining, they could naturally pull the heavy bow with ease.

    But being able to pull the bow didn''t necessarily mean they could shoot urately.

    Even after spending a lot of time training, they wouldn''t reach too high a level, let alone achieve Hundred-step Piercing and hit targets they could hardly see.

    Some things really are determined by talent.

    Chen Sansi sought out Wang Zhi in private to ask about his uing cultivation problems.

    "You''ve broken through again?"

    Wang Zhi almost spat out the wine in his mouth.

    At this moment, his heart was no longer purely happy, the astonishment far outweighed it.

    Less than a month into Martial Arts, and he had already walked a path that takes most people many years, or even their entire life to travel. Heaven truly wasn''t fair.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Hundred Households Wang."

    Chen Sansi asked, "Is there anything I need to be wary of after achieving Great Sess in Blood Refining and is there a connection to the Bone Training Realm?"

    "Not bad insight,"

    Wang Zhi said, holding his wine bowl and exining, "Blood Refining is, as it suggests, training the blood.

    "After achieving Great Sess, the Qi-Blood flows through the entire body, and then you can start Bone Training.

    "Only with high-quality Qi-Blood can the bones and flesh forged by the blood be better in the future.

    "This is also why I gave you the Haoran Breathing Skill in the beginning.

    "Blood Refining is the foundation, and without a solid foundation, you''re starting at a loss.

    "You should be able to feel it, among those of the same realm as you, there are very few who are a match for your Three Unions; as you progress, the gap will be even wider."

    ''Refining bones with blood...''

    Blood indeed ys a crucial role in the uing realms.

    Chen Sansi wasn''t sure if the "Blood Birth Phenomenon" was exclusive to his proficiency panel, so he didn''t bring it up for the time being, nning to see the effects first.

    "You kid, you''re really something,"

    Wang Zhi calcted with his fingers, "Your cultivation speed is fast enough, our garrison is about to receive arge batch of medicinal materials, and you are likely to start Bone Training before next spring."

    Chen Sansi picked out the key point from his words: "Is the garrison about to receive medicinal materials soon?"

    "Heh, don''t even mention it."

    Wang Zhi found it interesting, took a sip of wine, and said, "Yesterday at Eight Treasures Building, those old bastards from the Martial Arts Halls were acting all haughty, saying the garrison was confining them, and they wanted to find someone to petition against us.

    "But this morning, they changed their tunepletely.

    "They dered they would fully support our Lord Thousand Households'' campaign against the barbarians next year.

    "Once the Four Great Martial Arts Schools agreed, the local squires and rich merchants also had to fork out money.

    "This time, we''re going to strike it rich."

    Chen Sansi was skeptical.

    From the sounds of it, had Xiang Tingchun seeded in getting leverage over the Martial Arts Halls?

    But with the item in his hands, why would the Martial Arts Halls obediently follow orders?

    Unless...

    Xiang Tingchun was ying a game of bluffing!

    Quite a calction, not afraid of being exposed at all.

    That afternoon, close to dusk, Wang Zhi''s words came to fruition.

    Disciples from various Martial Arts Academies came in droves, pulling carts and delivering countless supplies.

    "The warehouse for medicinal materials is on the left!"

    "Grain to the right!"

    "Isn''t the quantity here incorrect? You''re short by two hundred stones of grain, make sure it arrives before sundown tomorrow!"

    "..."

    The chief storekeeper led several clerks, verifying the quantities of supplies cart by cart.

    The long-unused warehouses of the military camp were being utilized once more, and the grain storehouses were filled to the brim so much so that the sacks were almost spilling over.

    Consecutive poor harvests?

    The big households had plenty of grain.

    "Buzz¡ª"

    The assembly call was sounded, and the Order Officers summoned everyone to the Martial Arts Arena, proiming that Lord Thousand Households had an important announcement to make.

 Chapter 46 The War is Coming

    Martial Arts Arena.

    Apart from those looking out from the Great Wall, all the officers and soldiers at the garrison were assembled.

    Xiang Tingchun strode onto the high tform with a bold step.

    Even from dozens of steps away, everyone could sense that Lord Thousand Households was in high spirits.

    "Brothers!"

    Xiang Tingchun''s voice boomed like a great bell, "Today, I have two matters to announce.

    "Do you still remember, at the beginning of our nation''s founding during the Yongchang era, our court had over three million soldiers, yet not onecked food or clothing, and all were high in fighting spirit!"

    "s, cmities and disasters have been unending since then.

    "To the point where our Po Yang County even experienced wage and food shortages in the early years, resulting in many brothers suffering from hunger and cold, who were forced to flee and be refugees.

    "I, Xiang Tingchun, hold an inescapable responsibility for presiding over this ce; I apologize to all the brothers here!

    "However, that kind of situation will absolutely never happen again.

    "The Four Great Martial Arts Schools and many elders in Po Yang County really could not bear to see the brothers protecting our nation endure such hardships, hence they have donated arge amount of provisions, medicinal materials, as well as horses.

    "Therefore, the first matter is, starting from today¡ª

    "The sry for every Array Soldier will increase by half a month, with an extra stone of food.

    "For military soldiers, their monthly sry will double, as will the provision of Blood Replenishing Soup.

    "For military officers, their remuneration will double.

    "Additionally, from now on, you can purchase all kinds of medicinal materials directly in the barracks, at half the price of outside pharmacies!"

    Having said this, the crowd erupted into cheers.

    "Double?"

    "A stone of food every month?"

    What did a stone of food per month mean during years of bad harvest?

    It meant that this year, not only could everyone survive the cold winter without hunger, but they might even have some money left over to buy winter clothes!

    The military soldiers were equally excited.

    The vast majority who joined the army came from poor families¡ªwhere could they afford Blood Replenishing Soup priced at ten taels a portion?

    Yet relying solely on the garrison''s provision was far too insufficient for increasing their Cultivation.

    What the Lord Thousand Households said was like manna from heaven for them.

    Zhu Tong clenched his fist, "With enough Blood Replenishing Soup, I too have the chance to advance further in the Martial Arts!"

    Like him and Wang Li, they actually had fair talent.

    It was only their poverty that held them back.

    While everyone was busy rejoicing, Xu Wencai slightly shook his head, "I''m afraid we''re headed for war, and it''s going to be a tough fight."

    "Really?"

    Zhu Tong was skeptical, "That makes sense, why else would those bastards from the Martial Arts Hall suddenly be willing to fork out the money for us? There must be a catch!"

    "Let me finish speaking."

    Xiang Tingchun signaled for silence,

    "Next, the second matter.

    "It must be clear to everyone why the Po Yang Thousand Households was established.

    "To fend off the barbarians from the alien race!

    "For thousands of years, the barbarian tribes have coveted our houses and fields, longing to enve our wives, children, and elders, and to use our heads to fertilize their pastures!

    "It was the Grand Ancestor and his sessors who personally led expeditions against them numerous times, beating them so badly they couldn''t raise their heads for two hundred years!

    "But now, they are eager to move again, wanting to revive the tragedy of the former dynasty!

    "How can we, as men of valor, sit and await death?

    "With the approval of an official document from the War Department, I as the official will lead a campaign to exterminate the barbarian tribes around the Xi River at the start of next spring!

    "Therefore, I hope that in theing days, brothers will train diligently so that you can serve the court well on the battlefieldter.

    "As long as you y enough enemies, bing a noble or a general is not impossible!"

    After these words were spoken, the Martial Arts Arena fell silent, a stark contrast to the excitement before.

    Be a noble or a general?

    There really weren''t many with such grand ambitions.

    They simply wished to lead a safe and stable life.

    But since they were part of the army, fighting and killing on the battlefield was an unavoidable fate.

    Fortunately, it was always better to go to battle on a full stomach than on an empty one.

    This was also why Xiang Tingchun went to great lengths to secure funds and provisions from the Martial Arts Hall.

    An army without full pay will have no fighting will!

    Conversely, with great rewards, there will be brave men.

    A troop can possessbat effectiveness only when it has sufficient resources, ensuring it won''t copse at the first blow.

    Announcing this in advance is not a cause for concern regarding rming the snake in the grass.

    The barbarians always had spies among us.

    Therge-scale donation of funds and provisions by the Martial Arts Hall¡ªfools would know what was being prepared for.

    Instead of keeping everyone in the dark, it''s better to start training in advance to prepare both mentally and physically.

    After finishing his speech, Xiang Tingchun strode away, giving the soldiers time to digest his words.

    ...

    Chen Sansi had been mentally prepared for some time.

    The Selected Point assessment would take ce after the spring season.

    In other words, before he went to the Eight Camps to participate in the Selected Point assessment, he would also be a part of this battle.

    "Mr. Xu."

    Chen Sansi asked, "Do you know thebat strength of the barbarian tribes around the Xi River area?"

    "You''ve asked the right person," Find more chapters on empire

    Xu Wencai replied without hesitation, "I,cking in many talents, once dedicated five years to studying the distribution of the barbarian military forces.

    "The Xi River tribe is a branch of the Yuwen lineage. They have been living in this area for several decades and have well-trained soldiers. A conservative estimate would be two thousand men.

    "Among them, there is one with Refining Internal skills, and the numbers of Blood Refining and Bone Training military officers are roughly the same as those in our Thousand Households garrison.

    "However, they have more horses than we do, and their archers are of higher quality."

    Chen Sansi pondered, "In your opinion, how much chance do we have of victory when the spring begins next year?"

    "Pleasee with me, sir."

    Xu Wencai led him to a secluded and vacant corner and started drawing in the sand with a stick.

    "Almost all the important strategic passes along the northern border of our Sheng Dynasty are in constant friction with the barbarian tribes, so it''s certain no spare troops will be sent to reinforce us.

    "At most, the An Ding Prefecture Guard might deploy another Thousand Households garrison to back us up, ensuring that if we suffer a defeat outside the Great Wall, it would prevent the barbarians from conquering Po Yang County.

    "But they would definitely not leave the safety of the city to join the battle lightly.

    "That is to say, our Thousand Households garrison is essentially an isted force."

    "What are you two whispering about?"

    Zhu Tong quietly approached, "What are you scribbling with that broken stick?"

    "Big lug, don''t get in the way!"

    Xu Wencai stroked his beard, looking at the simple military distribution on the ground, and said perplexed, "It''s strange indeed. Waging war against the barbarians is a matter of national importance. Why send only a thousand or so men to attack a scattered tribe?

    "Sess or failure won''t make much difference in the grand scheme of things.

    "Sir, what are your thoughts on this?"

    Chen Sansi answered, "This is a performance to show off one''s capabilities to the superiors."

    "Wise as always, sir, I feel the same way!"

    Xu Wencai surveyed their surroundings before continuing in a cautious tone, "Households Commander Xiang is nning to achieve sess at the cost of countless lives!"

    That statement was still somewhat understated.

    To put it bluntly, Xiang Tingchun was ready to use the lives of nine hundred men from the Po Yang Thousand Households garrison to secure his own future!

    The reason the Ministry of War might have agreed was probably because the matter involved various powerful factions within the court; the waters ran deep.

    "As for our odds of victory,"

    Xu Wencai continued, "The barbarian warriors are robust and their horses strong, but they aren''t skilled in military formations. Furthermore, the nomadic tribes are at their weakest at the onset of spring each year.

    "If we can get more Bone Training martial masters from the Martial Arts Hall to assist us, and if the An Ding Prefecture is ready to back us up, we could win. But..."

    "It would definitely be a Pyrrhic victory."

    Zhu Tong, who had been confused the whole time, finally understood thest part, "How dire would that be?"

    Xu Wencai gravely said, "Both of us would have to die!"

    "That''s quite dire indeed."

    Zhu Tong grabbed his cor, "Lazybones, don''t you often brag about your warfighting abilities? Then think of a way. How can we avoid a disaster?"

    Xu Wencai spoke earnestly, "I do have a strategy that could at least reduce our losses by twenty percent."

    "Only twenty percent?"

    Zhu Tong disdainfully retorted, "What''s the difference between that and no reduction at all?"

    "I''m Wo Long, not an Immortal; saving twenty percent of the forces in this type of siege warfare would be a great saving of manpower!"

    Xu Wencai tossed aside the stick, "I need to offer my strategy to themander!"

    With that, he ran towards where Xiang Tingchun had his offices.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Zhu Tong counted on his fingers, "With over nine hundred men in our garrison, what does twenty percent amount to?"

    ...

    Chen Sansi said with resignation, "It''s reducing twenty percent of the casualties, not saying that the whole army will be wiped out."

    "Then how many is that?"

    Zhu Tong was even more puzzled.

    Before he could figure it out, Xu Wencai returned.

    He quickly asked, "How did it go, what did Lord Thousand Households say?"

    Xu Wencai was so angry that his face turned red, and he stomped his foot shouting, "Ipetentmander, ipetentmander!"

    Themander''s tent wasn''t far away; Chen Sansi, following the direction of the wind, faintly heard a "get out."

    He shook his head and stood up to leave.

    The battle was inevitable, and he never intended to avoid it.

    However, it seemed that he really needed to undergo Bone Training before the spring.

    After Bone Training, one could withstand des and weaponry, not losingbat effectiveness from minor wounds on the battlefield.

 Chapter 47 The Dead Man

    Ever since Xiang Tingchun announced the n for theing spring, the military discipline at the Households garrison had be much more stringent.

    The daily drills had doubled, and anyone leaving the camp needed to ask for leave in advance.

    Even the several Hundred Households were no longer allowed to spend their days indulging in food and drink; they were required to participate in the drills as well.

    However, the military households were very obedient.

    Because they had achieved days of being well-fed and well-clothed.

    Those with a pursuit in Martial Arts were also able to drink more Blood Replenishing Soup and enhance their Martial Arts.

    For ten consecutive days, Chen Sansi practiced Martial Arts within the military settlements.

    [Cultivation Technique: Soldier''s Basic Spear Technique (small achievement)]

    [Progress: 550/2000]

    [Utility: Gun Movement Swift, Amazing Endurance, Strong Qi-Blood, Blood Birth Phenomenon]

    The tiger heart and tiger meat had long been consumed, and the Nine Turns Blood Replenishing Soup had been drunk clean. Fortunately, there was significant improvement in proficiency.

    Furthermore, purchasing medicinal ingredients had be much cheaper.

    The Nine Turns Blood Replenishing Soup was now avable in the barracks, and it was only being sold for fifteen taels of silver.

    Yet it was still expensive.

    "Time to go hunting again."

    "The bottomless pit, ah!"

    If it were not for practicing Martial Arts, Chen Sansi would probably have be a wealthy man by now.

    "White Deer!"

    By hunting a White Deer, even after setting aside what he needed for himself, he could still sell it for several hundred taels.

    Not only would resources sufficient for Blood Refining Minor Sess be secured, but Bone Training was also almost within reach.

    But such White Deer were not so easily captured.

    The "Travels through Mountains and Rivers" was a book from a millennium ago. Since its publication, countless people had flocked to the Hutou Mountain Range to capture them; it was fortunate they had not gone extinct.

    He had inquired about information, and it seemed that the Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy had not found one even after searching for half a month.

    Chen Sansi arrived at the pharmacy: "Do you have Lingzhi for sale in the barracks?"

    White Deer, fond of treasure mushrooms.

    Medical Officer Jiang quickly brought out a brown Lingzhi from the storeroom: "This twenty-year-old ck Ganoderma, ground into powder and added to soup medicine, can enhance the effects of Replenishing Essence Soup, ten taels of silver."

    Enjoy exclusive chapters from empire

    "Do you have any fresh ones?"

    Chen Sansi observed that the Lingzhi had obviously been dry for a long time.

    "Heh, you''re in luck, there actually is."

    Medical Officer Jiang took out another box, inside of which was a fiery red Lingzhi: "This was delivered by Yunhe Martial Arts Hall just this morning, thirty-year-old Red Cloud Ganoderma, twenty taels. However, it is for healing injuries, and does not greatly help in improving Qi-Blood."

    Chen Sansi said, "It doesn''t matter, as long as it counts as a treasure mushroom."

    "Treasure mushroom?"

    Jiang, the Medical Officer shook his head: "At the very least, it has to be over a hundred years old, one is worth fifty taels. A twenty-year-old Lingzhi cannot be considered a treasure mushroom; such expensive medicinal materials are not currently avable at our garrison, you''ll have to buy them outside."

    "Fifty taels?"

    Chen Sansi was shocked by the price.

    The bait alone was worth fifty taels, and there was no guarantee that a White Deer could even be caught.

    It was only because the reward offered by the Tai Lei Martial Arts Hall was so high that their disciples were willing to spend so much money on hunting it.

    Chen Sansi, for the time being, really couldn''te up with that much silver.

    He decided to try his luck first and find another way if it didn''t work.

    Having made up his mind, Chen Sansi asked Wang Zhi for leave and left the barracks with his bow and arrows.

    "Sansi!"

    As he was passing near Yanbian Vige, Zhao Qiao caught up with him.

    "Uncle Zhao, you''re not going up the mountain to hunt?"

    Chen Sansi was somewhat surprised.

    After the Northern Territory''s winter arrives, the snow would seal the mountains, making it hard to hunt anymore.

    Hunters should be the most diligent in thete autumn.

    Zhao Qiao said with a bitter face: "It''s not that I don''t want to, it''s that I don''t dare!"

    "Don''t dare?"

    Chen Sansi asked: "What''s happened, has someone been bullying you?"

    "It''s the Witch God Sect!"

    Zhao Qiao''s tone was filled with anger and fear: "Recently, every day for the past ten days, people have been disappearing from the countryside, especially the hunters from the surrounding viges, many of whom have not returned since going up the mountains."

    "Are you sure, Uncle Zhao?"

    Chen Sansi solemnly said, "I took part in the mission to encircle and suppress the Golden Bell Temple. I was personally involved, and ny-nine percent of the Witch God Sect followers were in on the spot. Even if one or two slipped through the, they couldn''t possibly stir up more trouble."

    "Could it be that a Big Worm or a ck Bear hase down the mountain to eat people?"

    "It''s impossible, absolutely impossible!"

    Uncle Zhao said excitedly, "There are no bones left, do you understand, Shanshi? Not even bones can be found! Even if it were a Big Worm, it should leave some bones behind!"

    "Uncle Zhao, don''t get worked up."

    Chen Sansi said soothingly, "Have you reported this to the authorities?"

    "Of course, we did report it."

    Zhao Qiao said, "The lord at the county office said they would look into it thoroughly and told us to wait, but to date, there has been no progress. Just yesterday, Little Li from the next vige risked going up the mountain to hunt a wild chicken to nourish his pregnant wife, and now he is nowhere to be found!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Chen Sansi frowned.

    Even if there were one or two Witch God Sect Followers left, they couldn''t cause such a hugemotion.

    There must be another group involved!

    Could it be that Golden Bell Temple was just one of them?

    But at the same time, it doesn''t make sense to have so many people infiltrate Po Yang.

    Furthermore, in thest few days, he hadn''t heard anything in the military garrison about deploying people to hunt down the followers of the Witch God Sect.

    "Uncle Zhao, rest assured."

    Chen Sansi said, "After I return, I will report this to my superiors."

    "There''s something else."

    Zhao Qiao said somewhat embarrassingly, but still spoke up, "Shanshi, could you let us follow you up the mountain?

    "Winter is almost here, and we haven''t prepared enough charcoal and winter clothes for our homes. But with what has been happening recently, who dares to venture into the mountains? You know martial arts and can even kill a Big Worm; with you, we would not be afraid."

    It seemed he had been waiting on this path for a very long time.

    It was even possible that he had been waiting for several days, just to finally catch him going out hunting.

    "Of course you can."

    Chen Sansi agreed readily.

    "Thank you, Shanshi."

    Zhao Qiao was somewhat at a loss for words.

    A month ago, the other party hade knocking on his door with food, asking him to lead the way to Second Layer Mountain.

    A monthter, he found himself in need of the young man''s protection.

    Soon, Zhao Qiao called over Wu Da and Zhuang Yi, and the four of them set off for the mountain together.

    At the familiar creek, they parted ways.

    Chen Sansi instructed, "Uncle Zhao, if you encounter danger, fire a whistle arrow, and I''lle running as soon as I hear it."

    "Alright, Shanshi, you be careful too; though we... can''t be of much help to you."

    Zhao Qiao said.

    Chen Sansi turned and plunged into the mountain forest.

    So many deaths, wasn''t that a bit exaggerated?

    It made him somewhat nervous.

    However, after walking forward for about two li, he didn''t notice anything amiss.

    There were still many Martial Arts Academy Disciples hunting.

    The people from Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy were still searching for the White Deer.

    "I''ll go back and tell Hundred Households Wang to help look into it."

    Chen Sansi focused his attention and began searching for tracks of the White Deer.

    Unlike before, whether it was a Big Worm or a ck Bear, Uncle Zhao would point out the general direction.

    This time, it was all up to him, and even with tracking skills, it might be troublesome.

    After all, there''s no record in books about where White Deer live, and with the Hutou Mountain Range stretching for thousands of miles, it''s uncertain how much time it would take to find one.

    "Let''s search deeper."

    Common deer species like to dwell in deep, secluded ces.

    The White Deer is also a deer, and its habits might not be so different.

    Chen Sansi began to traverse the mountains.

    By the afternoon, after crossing over two mountain tops, he had not yet seen any sign of the White Deer. However, the vegetation became increasingly dense, nearly leaving no ce to set foot.

    Gazing into the distance, he could see a valley about five li away, quiet and profound.

    "Let''s have a look."

    Chen Sansi harnessed his energy and hurried forward, ready to explore.

    But before he could get close, several disciples in long robes rushed out, forming a human wall to block his path.

    "Halt!"

    "You are not permitted to go any further!"

 Chapter 48 Medicine Valley

    "Stop right there?"

    "Why should I stop?"

    As he spoke, Chen Sansi had already nocked a Wolf Teeth Arrow onto the string of the Kaiyuan Bow in his hand.

    "You, you have such a murderous aura!"

    The Martial Arts Academy Disciples looked at each other, involuntarily stepping back several paces, "We haven''t even struck you, so whye up and want to shoot people?!"

    "That''s right."

    Someone used, "We''re telling you to stop because ahead is private property!"

    "Private property?"

    Chen Sansi was skeptical.

    The Martial Arts Academy Disciple continued, "The valley ahead is the Medicine Garden of our Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, isn''t that private property?"

    The Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy''s Medicine Garden?

    Chen Sansi had heard from the Medical Officer Jiang before that many of thends suitable for cultivating medicinal herbs nearby had been sold to the martial arts hall. It seemed he had stumbled upon it by mistake.

    Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, that is, the Liang Family''s territory.

    The Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy didn''t do much business in medicinal materials, but that doesn''t mean they didn''t have their own Medicine Garden.

    Such arge valley it is.

    The surname Liang, at the age of twenty-five or six, could engage in Bone Training; he must have consumed a lot of medicinal materials.

    "What''s all this noise about?"

    "Young Master!"

    A brocade-d young master holding a folding fan approached, and the disciples stepped aside.

    It was the eldest young master of Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, Liang Zhan.

    "Young Master!"

    A discipleined, "A guy from the garrison came here, and we didn''t even do anything to him, but he came up wanting to shoot us with arrows, so arrogant!"

    "Oh, Brother Chen?"

    When Liang Zhan saw who hade, he rebuked his subordinates, "Even my brother you dare to stop? If you get shot, you deserve it!"

    "Young Master, it was he..."

    "Smack!"

    Liang Zhan knocked on the disciple''s head with his fan, "Stand down!"

    "Yes, sir!"

    The Martial Arts Academy Disciples all stepped back. Find adventures on empire

    "Brother Chen, I trust you''ve been well."

    Liang Zhan gave a fist salute, "Last time, I intruded upon you rudely, and I am here to offer an apology."

    "There''s no need."

    Chen Sansi couldn''t be bothered to bicker with this man, so he put away his bow and arrow and left.

    Killing this fellow, for the time being, was out of the question.

    The other party wouldn''t dare to make a move on him lightly, and there was no need to waste time here.

    "..."

    Liang Zhan didn''t stop him, silently watching as the other man walked away.

    "Young Master!"

    A disciple approached, "Are we just letting him go like that?"

    "Nonsense!"

    Liang Zhan scolded, "You want to provoke him and have him bring over the soldiers from the garrison? Think before you act next time, do I really need toe out and smooth things over for you? By the way, what is he doing in the Medicine Valley?"

    The disciple spected, "Lately, people everywhere are looking for the White Deer."

    "Looking for the White Deer?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Liang Zhan swayed his folding fan, "As I recall, you need a treasure to find the White Deer, don''t you? Do we still have a hundred-year-old treasure in our Medicine Garden? If so, pick one and send it to himter."

    "Young Master?!"

    The disciple voiced in surprise, "A hundred-year-old treasure is worth a great many dozens of silver."

    "If I tell you to send it, you send it!"

    Liang Zhan turned and walked into the valley.

    The fact that Chen Sansi achieved Blood Refining Minor Sess after practicing Martial Arts for a month had already spread from the barracks.

    In his life, everything he did was after careful deliberation, yet the one thing he regretted was offending this man in his efforts to help Qin Feng.

    But who could have imagined that a poor hunter from the countryside would turn out to be a Martial Arts prodigy?

    Most terrifying was that this kid held grudges!

    Moreover, the grudge deepened when he came knocking on the door, questioning him in a strong-arm manner.

    Every time he thought about how Qin Feng''s remains hadn''t even been found to date, Liang Zhan felt a chill down his spine.

    Simply killing him?

    He wasn''t tired of living yet.

    Not to mention Fatty Wang was protecting him.

    Xiang Tingchun also needed people.

    If he dared to touch Chen Sansi, Xiang Tingchun would dare to forcibly push him to the grasnd as a vanguard to die next year!

    What he feared now was that, as days passed, the youngster''s Cultivation would skyrocket to a height utterly unshakable.

    Inparison, if he could resolve the enmity early, what was spending some silver worth?

    Even if the enmity could not be resolved, now was not the moment to turn hostile; a suitable opportunity was needed to make a move against him.

    ¡­

    "What''s that Liang fellow hiding deep in the mountains for?

    "Whether it''s for gathering herbs or nting, there''s no need for the young master himself toe, let alone with so many people in tow, not allowing anyone to approach within two miles."

    "Wait a minute..."

    "The hunters who''ve gone missing on the mountain, could they be rted to them?"

    A terrible spection suddenly rose in Chen Sansi''s heart.

    But there were logical inconsistencies.

    Why would the martial arts school kill people for no reason?

    "I must be overthinking it."

    Chen Sansi refocused on his search for the White Deer.

    Unfortunately, by evening, he still hadn''t had any luck.

    "It seems I''ll need to use the treasure as bait after all.

    "First I''ll have to hunt something else to exchange for some silver."

    Exotic Beasts are hard to find, but fierce ones are not.

    In a dense forest, Chen Sansi found the paw prints of arge cat on the ground.

    "Susu¡ª"

    No sooner had he stepped into the territory than he heard light leaping sounds from overhead, rapidly approaching from the southeast, northwest, all directions.

    In the dim forest, spots of eerie green light flickered on.

    Those were the pupils of cheetahs!

    Five cheetahs stood atop the trees, looking down from a distance at the intruder on the ground.

    "Ao¡ª"

    They attacked simultaneously, rushing towards the hunter in the middle with incredible speed, in a pincer move.

    Cheetahs are born swift.

    A distance of around fifty feet, for them, takes only four or five seconds.

    For an ordinary hunter, such a brief span of time would be enough to fire one or two arrows.

    The targets would still be fast-moving, and there was no guarantee of hitting them; once they got close enough to tear and bite, the hunter either had to fight hand-to-hand and win or be a meal in the belly of the beast.

    On the ground.

    Chen Sansi took a deep breath.

    Then, his bowstring snapped like thunder!

    "Whoosh whoosh whoosh whoosh¡ª"

    He became a hunting machine, firing arrows in rapid session in different directions, each one striking its target''s heart with unerring precision.

    In just over three seconds, four cheetahs fell to the ground.

    Only the cheetah from behind, shielded by the trees, had managed to get closer. It leaped from the tree, revealing ws and teeth sharp as sword des, but it was pierced through by a glint of cold light, suspended forever in mid-air.

    Chen Sansi''s reed leaf spear had been waiting for a long time.

    in and simple, a cheetah hunt.

    [Tracking Concealed Presence (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 105/1000]

    ...

    [Skill: Archery (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: (190/1000)]

    The five cheetahs; he kept the most valuable parts for himself and the rest could sell for thirty or forty taels of silver.

    Adding that to the silver saved at home, it just about added up to enough money to buy the treasure.

    Chen Sansi stuffed all the cheetahs into the he had brought and then carried it on his back, returning the way he came.

    By the stream.

    Zhao Qiao and the others had been waiting since morning.

    Their earnings were dismal, only a few wild chickens and rabbits.

    They were no longer surprised by the young man catching a cheetah.

    "Did you encounter any danger?" Chen Sansi asked.

    "No."

    Zhao Qiao shook his head: "The three of us stuck together, didn''t run into any danger."

    "Uncle Zhao, it''s not just the mountain hunters who are missing, is it?" Chen Sansi pressed on.

    "That''s not the case."

    Wu Da intercepted: "Many people were still at home on the previous evening, yet they disappeared the next morning.

    "Not only the countryside, but there are also disappearances in the county town, although not as many as in the countryside."

    ''Am I being paranoid?''

    Chen Sansi nced toward the direction of the Medicine Valley and didn''t linger any longer, joining the others to descend the mountain, mulling over the matter in his heart.

    ''There must be a secret to this.''

    ''It''s definitely not something the Witch God Sect''s love for killing can exin.''

    His thoughts went to themp oil that could ignite crimson mes.

    Could it be rted to themp oil?

    After all, these troubles first began when the Immortal Treasure appeared in Po Yang.

    Before that, Po Yang County was a ce where birds wouldn''t even poop; where would all this chaose from?

    Even if the likelihood of a connection was small, Chen Sansi would still try to investigate.

    Having the Immortal Treasure in his possession but not knowing how to use it was also troubling.

 Chapter 49 Able to Bend and Stretch

    County town.

    It was almost exactly as Chen Sansi had estimated.

    The most valuable parts of the cheetah were the galldder and heart, with the remaining parts totaling forty-six taels of silver when sold.

    After handling the goods, he rushed back to the garrison before nightfall.

    "Running back and forth like this is really a waste of time!

    "Still, I need some sort of transport."

    Recently, Chen Sansi had been cultivating day and night, barely practicing with his arrows, and he had only visited the stables once.

    Thinking it over, he didn''t go home but instead went to the military camp.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Neigh¡ª"

    The White Horse became restless and neighed as soon as he approached the stables, continuously stomping its hooves as if threatening.

    Chen Sansi''s temper red in an instant.

    The moment he opened the gate, the White Swan Horse charged crazily towards the outside.

    Chen Sansi grabbed the saddle in one swift motion and leapt onto the horse''s back, directly giving it a whip.

    The White Swan Horse, pained by the whip, ran even more fiercely, trying with all its might to throw off the rider.

    Chen Sansi steadied himself while using the reins to forcefully make the horse run in the direction he directed.

    With his minor sess in Blood Refining, his Qi Power was naturally not something a horse could resist.

    At first, the White Swan Horse continued to struggle, but as time passed, perhaps because it was drained, or perhaps realizing that resistance was futile, it gradually became obedient.

    After half an hour, it was as responsive as an arm extension.

    In Chen Sansi''s hands, the reins were as easy to manipte as a steering wheel, moving as he willed.

    [Skill: Horse Control (Entry-level)]

    [Progress: (0/200)]

    [Utility: The horse acknowledges its master, minds melding.]

    A treasure horse?

    The system called it a treasure horse; it seems its bloodline is indeed not bad, just a bit stubborn.

    As for mind melding, it''s an indescribable, mystical feeling.

    If he had to describe it, Chen Sansi felt that the White Swan Horse, despite their short time together, was as familiar as an old dog that had been in the family for twenty years, with a telepathic understanding, able to mutually grasp each other''s intentions.

    This was crucial.

    On the battlefield, the bond between a military officer and his warhorse was the closest ofradeships; a good coordination could sometimes save lives.

    He remembered reading in a book of Dasheng that the Grand Ancestor Cao Xie had once been a house ve in charge of tending horses for a prominent family and had formed a bond with a young colt.

    Later, during a pursuit, it was that colt that had saved Cao Xie''s life.

    Otherwise, there would have been no Dasheng Dynasty from the Cao family.

    Having tamed the White Swan Horse, Chen Sansi nned to go home and rest.

    When they reached the stable, however, the White Swan Horse was very resistant, indicating it did not want to live in the cramped stables.

    Chen Sansi didn''t mind.

    His home had plenty of space for keeping a horse, so he decided to bring the fodder and stone trough back home as well.

    "Brother Shi looks quite impressive."

    Gu Xin watched her man riding a horse into the courtyard and couldn''t help but feel her heart flutter.

    Even though he was just a g officer, in her eyes, Brother Shi increasingly resembled the generals in the folk tales.

    Ravenous, Chen Sansi ate dinner and then consumed a leopard''s galldder before continuing to practice with his spear in the courtyard.

    The spear whistled through the air like thunder, and surprisingly, the horse wasn''t scared at all. It just stood under the osmanthus tree watching him, asionally nibbling on some fodder until it was utterly exhaustedte at night and fell asleep standing up.

    After finishing his spear practice, Sister Lan had also boiled some hot water for Chen Sansi to bathe and change his clothes.

    "I have finished processing the tiger skin you brought back."

    Gu Xin showed the tiger skin rug, "How about I turn it into a garment for you? It would definitely keep you warm in the winter."

    Chen Sansi lounged in the bath barrel, "Wear it for me to see."

    "Ah?"

    Before Gu Xin could react, the man added, "I mean, wear just that and nothing else."

    "Brother Shi..."

    Gu Xin''s cheeks reddened to her neck: "Who have you been learning from? Your tricks are getting more numerous."

    Who makes someone dress up as a tigress?

    ¡­

    The next day.

    White Dew Clusters soften the morning with the sound of horse hooves.

    Chen Sansi rode the White Swan Horse to the military camp for roll call.

    After the training had ended, he came to Wang Zhi''s tent to report the possibility of the Witch God Sect''s presence in Po Yang, hoping he would inform the Hundred Households to dispatch someone for an investigation.

    Then, he requested a day off, preparing to head back to the mountains.

    He was determined to capture the White Deer.

    Not to mention a pressing need for a heavy bow, the White Deer itself was also a powerful supplement, increasing cultivation speed faster than even the tiger heart.

    Even if he had to spend fifty taels on bait, it was worth trying.

    After requesting the leave, Chen Sansi had not yet left the tent when his subordinate Wang Li approached him.

    "Sir."

    Wang Li reported, "Someone from Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy wants to see you."

    "From the Liang family?"

    Chen Sansi hesitated for a moment, "Let him in."

    If they were to meet, it would be in the military camp.

    Soon, Wang Li led the visitor in, but it was not Liang Zhan himself, rather a disciple from the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy.

    "Chen Qigu."

    The disciple first gave a fist salute, then took out a delicate sandalwood box from his bosom, "My master knows you have been hunting deer recently, and has specially picked a hundred-year-old treasure fungus from the Medicine Valley.

    "Additionally, my master also has a message for you.

    "There has been some misunderstanding with Chen Qigu before, he hopes you''ll ept this as an apology and convert enmity into friendship. If you need help in the future, my master will definitely support you strongly."

    Chen Sansi pondered the other''s intent.

    The Liang, are they afraid of him?

    That seemed unlikely.

    The local ruffian Qin Xiong once showed fear when faced with a bow, which was understandable.

    But Liang Zhan was a bone-training martial artist, who had bravely fought against Witch God Sect followers.

    Why would he feel the need to apologize to him, an ordinary blood refining warrior?

    Such a capacity to bend or stand erect.

    This person must not be underestimated!

    Chen Sansi was on high alert.

    He initially intended to refuse the treasure fungus but seeing Hundred Households Wang''s eyes gleaming, he changed his mind, "I''ll ept the item, thank my regards to Mr. Liang."

    Wang Zhi had traits worth learning.

    When dealing with such people, there was no need to speak of righteousness.

    Sugar-coated bullets.

    Sometimes, one must swallow the sugar and spit out the bullets.

    Perfect.

    Spending fifty taels of silver on bait was extravagant, better to buy supplemental medicine to enhance cultivation.

    "Good that you''ve epted it."

    The Martial Arts Academy Disciple breathed a sigh of relief, "Beforeing here, my master instructed that if Chen Qigu did not ept the gift, I was not to return."

    "What about mine?"

    Wang Zhi held back for a long while, "My lord and your master are close friends and fellow travelers, doesn''t he have anything for me?"

    "Hundred Households Wang, this¡­ this¡­"

    The Martial Arts Academy Disciple coughed awkwardly, "I must return to report, I''ll take my leave first."

    Having said that, he left hurriedly without looking back.

    Continue reading at empire

    "Tch!"

    Wang Zhi cursed, "The Liang Family is truly a bunch of opportunists, knowing that you will soon enter the Eight Camps and be recruited into the Governor Mansion, they think to ingratiate themselves with you!

    "But¡­"

    He spoke earnestly, "You must put in more effort, the more they respect you now, the greater the bacsh you will face if you fail in the Selected Point in the future."

    Chen Sansi clearly understood this principle.

    That made it all the more important to cherish his time.

    He took up his weapon, mounted the White Swan Horse, and left the military camp, heading straight for Tiger Head Mountain.

    With the treasure fungus.

    The likelihood of finding the White Deer should greatly increase.

 Chapter 50 White Deer

    Atst, he didn''t have to go out on foot anymore. Riding a horse not only saved energy but also increased his speed.

    When the White Swan Horse ran at full speed, it gave Chen Shanshi the feeling of flying in the sky, as if his hooves barely touched the ground.

    He must have covered a thousand miles by now, right?

    He hadn''t even estimated the time when he had already arrived at Yanbian Vige. He called for Zhao Qiao to join him and tied the horse in front of Zhao''s house.

    The mountain was rugged and home to wild animals; naturally, one couldn''t ride a horse up the mountain.

    The group arrived at a small stream.

    "Uncle Zhao, why don''t we cross the river with Shanshi?"

    Unable to bear it anymore, Wu Da said, "This mountain isn''t theirs; why shouldn''t we go?"

    "Uncle, I think it''s feasible too."

    Zhuang Yi, scratching his head, said, "If we follow Brother Chen, they definitely won''t dare to mess with us."

    "No way!"

    Zhao Qiao was adamant, "Don''t make trouble for Shanshi."

    He pushed the two away.

    Chen Shanshi didn''t interrupt.

    It wasn''t that he was afraid of trouble.

    Indeed, the people from the Martial Arts Hall wouldn''t dare to mess with Zhao Qiao and others in his presence.

    But what about after they separated?

    Chen Shanshi needed to train and fight wars. He couldn''t possibly spend all his time protecting them.

    Unless he could truly make the people from the Martial Arts Hall fear him from the bottom of their hearts.

    Clearly, it wasn''t yet the time for that.

    After parting ways with the others,

    Chen Shanshi headed directly into the depths of North Mountain.

    He encountered prey along the way but didn''t stop; he kept going until he reached the summit, where he paused to survey the surrounding mountain peaks from a high vantage point.

    Among them, a peak that was entirely red stood out sharply.

    The mountain was covered with maple trees, resembling a vast sea of fire.

    Generally speaking, deer should prefer to live in the green forest where food is plentiful.

    But the reason why exotic beasts are called exotic isn''t only because of their unique lineage; their requirements for living environments might also differ from others.

    Since he hadn''t found any in several green forests, it was worth a try.

    The two mountains were not far apart, roughly ten miles away.

    As Chen Shanshi approached Feng Mountain, he discovered many people from Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy nearby.

    Among them was Wei Xu, whom he recognized, along with some others who seemed to hold higher positions.

    This group gathered here must have discovered something, indicating that he hadn''t gone to the wrong ce.

    As expected, when he got closer, he heard their discussion.

    "Yesterday afternoon, just halfway up the mountain, Mr. Wu almost caught the White Deer!"

    "But that animal has an astonishing sense of hearing; it detected us from tens of yards away. With a jump several meters high, it disappeared in the blink of an eye."

    "However, it must still be on this mountain."

    "Mr. Wu said we don''t need to capture it ourselves; if we can help locate its general vicinity, there will be a hefty reward."

    "¡­"

    Even though they kept their voices very low, Chen Shanshi could hear every word clearly.

    Jumping several meters high?

    No wonder the White Deer Tendon could be used to make a heavy bow.

    Since it had appeared, it must have left behind traces.

    No matter how subtle the signs, he could find them.

    He suddenly had a target and quickly headed to the mountainside.

    "Howe he''s here too?"

    Wei Xu saw the armored youth and couldn''t help feeling anxious, "Big Brother, this is the guy I told you about before, the one who hunted a Big Worm alone and even shot an arrow at me. Oh no, what if he finds the White Deer before us?"

    "What are you waiting for, hurry up and search! Ourvish fortune depends entirely on that White Deer!"

    Joking aside, if they managed to cure the Old Master''s injury, inheriting a shop would mean no more worries for the rest of their lives.

    ...

    Midway up the mountain.

    Within the dense Maple Forest, fiery red fallen leaves were everywhere.

    Several arrows were embedded in the ground, clearly the remnants of a failed hunting attempt.

    Chen Sansi bent over, meticulously searching around the arrows.

    Soon, he found a strand of snow-white hair on a red maple leaf.

    Ordinary deer hair is stiff, as thick as a needle.

    But the hair of the White Deer was as soft as cotton and even finer than down.

    Every thirty steps or so, he would find a few such hairs.

    Following them through several patches of woond from the middle of the mountain to the other side of the peak, he ended up at a dead end, with only a cliff in sight.

    Chen Sansiy on the edge of the cliff, looking down.

    The cliff wasn''t very deep, about forty to fifty meters.

    Fortunately, there were plenty of footholds, and relying on his Light as a Feather skill, he mbered down the cliff with the agility of a nimble monkey in no time at all.

    At the base of the cliff, everything reverted from fiery red to the dark green typical of a forest; the area teemed with birds and beasts and was rich in a variety of nts and trees, truly brimming with life.

    It seemed like a ce where the White Deer would live.

    Chen Sansi opened the sandalwood box he had brought, inside whichy a shiny ck, cloud-shaped Lingzhi.

    A breeze wafted by, carrying a unique fragrance that instantly refreshed the mind.

    Indeed, it was a treasure.

    He ced the Lingzhi in the clearing and then hid themselves ten meters away in the dense woods, preparing the arrow and fully drawing the bowstring.

    Keeping the bow fully drawn was a massive drain on strength for most people.

    Chen Sansi did this because he knew the White Deer had "ears that heard in all directions"; it was highly likely it could hear the sound of the bowstring being drawn. This was probably why the Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy''s people had failed¡ªthey had been detected in advance.

    Together with his Concealing Breath and Hiding technique, he blended perfectly into the forest.

    During this time, birds evennded on his shoulder to rest, mistaking him for a piece of wood.

    He didn''t have to wait long.

    About fifteen minutester, a snow-white, agile figure quietly emerged from the cliff¡ªit didn''t even need a foothold and ran up the nearly vertical cliff!

    It turned out to live in a cave halfway up the cliff, no wonder it couldn''t be found anywhere on the mountain.

    The White Deer was clearly attracted by the Lingzhi.

    Initially, it moved quickly, but as it approached, it began to slow down and became cautious.

    It basically paused with every step it took, but despite its caution, it ultimately didn''t notice the danger lurking in the shadows.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    Just as the Lingzhi was about to reach its mouth, the White Deer sensed something was amiss, but in an instant, it leaped three meters high in the air.

    Unfortunately for it, the Wolf Teeth Arrow was a step ahead, piercing its skull.

    "Thud¡ª"

    The White Deer fell dead mid-air, and by the time it hit the ground, it had already turned into a corpse.

    "Quite a fast reaction."

    If Chen Sansi hadn''t drawn the bowstring beforehand, he might not have hit his target.

    After oveing numerous obstacles, he finally got his hands on it.

    The resources from a single White Deer were enough to sustain him up to nearly the Bone Forger Realm, saving him a great deal of time.

    Going down the mountain might still lead to trouble.

    Carrying a White Deer down the mountain was akin to carrying gold bricks through a bustling market.

    At first, only one or two Martial Arts Academy Disciples followed from a distance.

    Soon, they gathered like wolves that smelled blood, with as many as twenty or so people closely following him.

    Unfortunately, Chen Sansi was no "child."

    Even with the gold bricks right before their eyes, no one dared to make a rash move.

    "Even Mr. Wu can''t do it!"

    Wei Xu stared at the hole in the Exotic Beast''s head, "How did he shoot the deer!"

    "Let''s stop him first and talkter!"

    The eldest disciple, Huang Tao, said as he stepped forward.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Be careful, Big Brother."

    Wei Xu cautioned, "This man is petty and extremely murderous."

    "Afraid of what! Didn''t you say he''s just a small g? I''ve already reached Blood Refining Great Sess, why should I be afraid of him?"

    Huang Tao shrugged off his junior''s hold on his arm and rushed forward to block the way.

    Chen Sansi wore an expressionless face and feigned ignorance, "Is there a problem?"

    "Brother."

    Huang Tao sped his fists as a greeting, "We n to pool money to buy the White Deer from you, at the market price, no loss to you, how about it?"

    "Not selling."

    Chen Sansi said and was about to bypass him.

    "Stop!"

    Huang Tao''s tone intensified, "If you don''t give us this face today, don''t think about leaving, I advise you..."

    He was only halfway through his sentence when a sh of cold light suddenly zipped past his face.

    There was a "snap" sound as if something had fallen to the ground.

    After being stunned for two seconds, intense pain set in, and Huang Tao covered his bleeding cheek and wailed, "My ear, my ear!!!"

    "Are you still buying?"

    Chen Sansi withdrew his reed leaf spear and said deliberately.

    Due to the fast speed of the spear, not even a drop of blood stained the gun tip.

    "Madman, you madman!"

    The Martial Arts Academy Disciples were shocked, "Our Big Brother didn''t do anything to you, why would you attack?!"

    He didn''t do anything to me?

    Chen Sansi scoffed inwardly.

    It was not that they didn''t want to, but that they were wary.

    This ear, deserved to be sliced off.

    "I''ll kill you!"

    Huang Tao was furious, his Qi-Blood of Great Sess level bursting forth, and despite the pain, he drew a long sword, aiming to strike at the youth''s face.

    "Stop!"

    At the critical moment, a sharp shout rang out.

    A man around forty years old sprinted over, standing in front of Huang Tao.

    "Mr. Wu!"

    The disciples of Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy immediately gathered around their mainstay.

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    "Mr. Wu, you came just in time."

    "Thisd..."

    "..."

    "You must be the Xuanfeng g Officer Chen Sansi, right?"

    Despite the mixture of usations, Mr. Wu Song ignored them and instead praised, "Fine spear technique, fine courage! Surrounded by so many, yet you dared to strike first.

    "Mr. Wu should see, it was your people who tried to forcefully buy and sell first, I was merely defending myself."

    Chen Sansi realized that this man was very likely the fifth son of the Tai Lei Master.

    "They were in the wrong, they deserved to be thwarted."

    Old Mr. Wu Song said sternly, "But g Officer Chen, you may have heard, my father is injured, we need the Exotic Beast to heal him, could you possibly sell me the deer heart, I am willing to pay far above the market price in silver."

    "Not selling."

    Chen Sansi tly refused.

    He had enquired with the Medical Officer.

    The deer heart was the most beneficial part of the White Deer for one''s Cultivation.

    It was priceless.

    No amount of silver could quickly capture a second deer.

    He needed to seize this chance to reach Blood Refining Great Sess and prepare for Bone Forging, how could he possibly give it to someone else.

    No need to worry about them making a move.

    If they really wanted to fight, they would have snatched it already, why talk so much?

    "I take my leave!"

    Chen Sansi said, carrying the White Deer and leaving.

    Mr. Wu Song stood still, watching, offering no resistance.

    "Mr. Wu!"

    Huang Tao couldn''t believe it, "Why did you stop me? I should have taught this kid a lesson."

    "Fool, I saved your life!"

    Mr. Wu Song berated, "He cut off your ear and you still didn''t react, do you think you couldst a few rounds?"

    "But... isn''t he just a small g?"

    Huang Tao finally began to feel scared.

    A small g was at most Blood Refining Minor Sess, but he was a Great Sess!

    "Useless!"

    Mr. Wu Song roared angrily, "Dozens of people, all useless!

    "Searched for a month and didn''t even touch the butt of the White Deer, yet someone else got it by just going up the mountain, useless, all useless!

    "Pick up your ear, I told you to pick up your ear!"

    ...

    "So frustrating!"

    On the way down the mountain, Chen Sansi felt stifled.

    The reason he had not taken the lives of the Martial Arts Academy Disciples was because he had noticed Old Mr. Wu watching from not too far away.

    That guy was in the Bone Forging Realm!

    From the surface, he hadn''t suffered a loss.

    But that was because the other party was wary of his status.

    Ultimately, they feared Xiang Ting Chun, feared the Governor Mansion, and even feared Wang Zhi, but not him.

    And.

    Thend belongs to the people, why should he have to look at their faces when hunting?!

    Seclusion!

    Only personal strength was the foundation of everything.

    The people from the Martial Arts Hall hung around him like wolves all day, making Chen Sansi feel ufortable all over.

    The next time this happens, he would make the Martial Arts Hall''s people bleed rivers!

 Chapter 51 Longqing Year Fifty-Seven

    Back at the creek,

    Chen Sansi saw Zhao Qiao and several others lifting a goat, it seemed that today''s harvest wasn''t too bad.

    "Brother Chen also bagged a goat."

    Zhuang Yi waved from a distance.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "That''s a deer, and it''s an Exotic Beast!"

    Zhao Qiao corrected.

    "Good gracious."

    Wu Da craned his neck, "How much silver would that fetch?"

    "Be satisfied with the goat."

    Zhao Qiao was quite content.

    The group descended the mountain.

    Upon reaching the tavern, Chen Sansi was invited into a VIP room to slowly settle ounts.

    Deer blood wasn''t easy to preserve, so they left behind five kilograms.

    The best parts of the antler were all taken.

    There was only one heart, which they also took.

    Each type of animal had valuable parts that differed; for example, the gall of the White Deerparatively wasn''t worth much, and such internal organs were all sold off.

    The sinews were also kept.

    Then it was the meat of the deer.

    The meat of an Exotic Beast would greatly diminish in efficacy if left too long.

    Chen Sansi himself kept around a hundred kilograms.

    In the end, what could be sold was sold, showing a total of two hundred and eighty taels on the books.

    Plus the treasure Zhuang Zhan sent that sold for sixty taels,

    This sum of money was enough for an ordinary person to live affluently in the Prefecture City.

    But for those practicing Martial Arts, it was merely a resource for a certain phase.

    Over three hundred taels of silver had to be bundled to fit.

    Chen Sansi, carrying the heavy silver, rode the White Horse to the garrison''s Forge.

    "This sinew?!"

    Niu Gai, holding the white sinews and gently pulling them, said: "You actually managed to get the sinew of a White Deer? Great stuff, I''ll definitely make you a bow of over ten stones;e back in thirty days."

    After giving his instructions, Chen Sansi inquired about the Witch God Sect.

    "It''s been said."

    Wang Zhi chewed peanuts as he drank, "Households Commander Xiang got so angry that he mmed the table on the spot and ordered Luo Dongquan to continue the investigation, ensuring it must be rified before the new county magistrate and Selection Officer arrive."

    "Selection Officer?"

    Chen Sansi asked, "Weren''t they supposed toe after spring began?"

    "Don''t know the reason, but it''s been moved up this year."

    Wang Zhi squinted, "I estimate it''s not for you, but rather for a general purge."

    "A purge?"

    Chen Sansi remarked, "Simr to an imperial envoying over for inspection?"

    "Yes."

    Wang Zhi nodded, "Every year, the Selection Officers travel thousands of miles to various counties and prefectures, not just to receive people, but more importantly, to enforce military discipline and execute a few beyond saving."

    "Justst year, the garrison''s Households Commander next door took bribes and secretly reced someone''s eligibility for Selected Points, and when discovered, was directly sent to Liangzhou to die in a suicide squad."

    "If Hundred Households like him are found out, there are those who get executed on the spot."

    "Otherwise, why do you think they fear the Governor Mansion, and why do the people from Martial Arts Hall dare not touch you?"

    "Why are you looking at me like that?"

    Chen Sansi said indifferently, "Worried about you."

    "Worried about me?"

    Wang Zhi pondered the meaning behind the words and suddenly understood, "You think I''m also beyond redemption?"

    "Am I so disreputable in your eyes?"

    He defended himself vehemently, "The silver I gather has its legitimate uses." Your next read is at empire

    "When the Selection Officer arrives, don''t talk nonsense!"

    "When are theying?" Chen Sansi asked.

    "Don''t know exactly, but definitely before it starts snowing," Wang Zhi replied.

    That said, wasn''t the Selection Officer also going to participate in the spring conscription?

    Chen Sansi inquired about the attitude of the Governor Mansion regarding this matter.

    "As far as I know, the Governor Mansion does not approve," Chen Sansi said.

    Hundred Households Wang was well-informed, "But this matter was approved by the Ministry of War, and you know who is above the Ministry of War, don''t you? I suspect that the reason the Selection Officer came early was to see if it was possible to stop them."

    Above the Ministry of War were naturally the Emperor and the Regent Crown Prince, and perhaps a few key decision-makers at most.

    "That damn Xiang Tingchun!"

    Hundred Households Wang tapped his fingers on the table, "He wants to use this chance to join the forces under the Crown Prince Faction, using us brothers as stepping stones!"

    The Crown Prince?

    Was Xiang Tingchun trying to ingratiate himself with the Crown Prince Faction?

    Ever since the thirtieth year of Longqing, the Emperor had begun to cultivate Daoism, delegating the governance to the Crown Prince.

    Now in the seventy-second year of Longqing, the Crown Prince had been governing for forty years.

    Now with the Emperor''s tacit approval and the Ministry of War''s endorsement, the Crown Prince had started selecting military officers from the border to cultivate his confidantes, clearly targeting the Governor Mansion.

    "Don''t worry, this isn''t the first time this has happened."

    Hundred Households Wang saw through his thoughts, "In the fifty-seventh year of Longqing, His Majesty once believed nders and had the Governor imprisoned in the Imperial Prison. And what happened then?

    "That same summer, an external enemy attacked the south, and without the Lord Governor, seven cities fell within a month!

    "Even our Eight Camps... suffered a devastating defeat, with the ck Tortoise Camppletely wiped out!

    "Wasn''t he reinstated as the Governor, and within half a year, turned the dire situation around?

    "Three years ago, when the barbarian tribes were restless, it was Supervisor Sun who presided, keeping the barbarian tribes at bay to this day."

    "So let them fuss, anyone in the Great Sheng Dynasty could be reced, except for Sun Dushi," Hundred Households Wang concluded triumphantly.

    Chen Sansi did not know much about these matters.

    If it was true, this Supervisor Sun was indeed formidable.

    But the more formidable he was, the more the Old Emperor probably feared him.

    "There''s also one most crucial point."

    Hundred Households Wang took a deep breath, speaking gravely, "Since you are obsessed with Martial Arts, do you know who has the world''s number one spear technique?"

    "Supervisor Sun?"

    Chen Sansi didn''t even need to guess.

    "Correct."

    Hundred Households Wang spoke with admiration, "If you want to reach the pinnacle in spear technique, there''s no better teacher than Supervisor Sun. You mustn''t change your mind about going to the Eight Camps just because of some viins'' scheming."

    "I haven''t nned on changing my mind."

    Even knowing the risks, Chen Sansi was still very likely to go to the Eight Camps.

    Where else could he go? Follow Xiang Tingchun?

    "Speaking of which, was Hundred Households Wang previously from the Eight Camps?"

    As Chen Sansi gradually became more familiar with him, they could chat on different topics, "Which camp were you in and what position did you hold?"

    "I was in..."

    Hundred Households Wang began to speak, then swallowed his words and chuckled, "Forgot! It''s been so many years, who remembers?"

    He clearly did not want to talk about it.

    Chen Sansi did not ask further.

    He reiterated his request for the other party to keep an eye out for any cases of missing people, then busied himself with his own matters.

    He returned home.

    Ate the cooked deer heart.

    A feeling entirely different from that of bear heart or tiger heart spread throughout his body.

    Ever since the "Blood Birth Phenomenon," each time Chen Sansi practiced his spear technique, the pain felt doubly severe, as if not blood but mes flowed through his body, constantly burning him.

    But after eating the deer heart, strands of refreshing coolness continuously flowed from his stomach to his limbs and bones, healing his damaged body.

    Thus, Chen Sansi became more and more spirited with each practice, not needing to rest at all.

    His proficiency also improved rapidly.

    No wonder a deer heart was worth two hundred taels, the effect was many times better than that of a fierce beast''s heart and not only beneficial for cultivation but likely also great for maintaining health.

    "Continue!"

    Chen Sansi was unaware that it was already deep into Midnight.

    ...

    Inside the house,

    Sister Lan had long changed into her newly sewn mandarin duck-style top and was sitting quietly at the bedside, waiting.

    ording to the usual pattern, every time the young man consumed a beast heart, a hectic night ensued; she had grown ustomed to it.

    Why was today out of the ordinary?

    She waited until thete hours of the night until, unable to keep her eyes open, Gu Xin fell into a deep sleep, drowsy and groggy.

 Chapter 52 Colluding with Scoundrels

    Time flows like a relentless river, never pausing for moment.

    Behind closed doors, time seems to fly especially fast.

    In the blink of an eye, another twenty days had passed.

    The weather in the Northern Territory was growing increasingly cold.

    Fortunately, after the pay increase, the soldiers of Po Yang Thousand Households had more money in hand and did not have to suffer from the cold.

    At the Martial Arts Arena.

    Chen Sansi was sparring with Fang Zongqi.

    The effects are best when the sparring partner is a realm higher in skill.

    Fang Zongqi, full of confidence at first, had a markedly terrible expression on his face after less than five rounds.

    Is this really just "small achievement" in Blood Refining?

    Strength, speed, endurance, in which aspect is he inferior to me?

    To put it more precisely, he seems to be much stronger than me¡ªI who have reached "great sess" in Blood Refining!

    Struggling miserably to reach the tenth round, the web of Fang Zongqi''s right hand holding the saber split open, blood gushed out continuously, and his arm became numb and stiff, almost forgetting how to execute the saber technique he learned.

    Surrounding them were onlooking soldiers, most of whom were his subordinates.

    Seeing that he could no longer hold on, Fang Zongqi quickly said, "Enough! It''s a draw, a draw!"

    Chen Sansi withdrew his spear, "Thank you for the effort, Fang Zongqi."

    Fang Zongqi, with his trembling right hand hidden behind his back, said, "You must be close to achieving ''great sess'' in Blood Refining, right?"

    "It should be in the next few days."

    Chen Sansi did not deny it.

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Spear Technique of a Soldier (Minor Sess)]

    [Progress: 1855/2000]

    [Utility: Swift Spear Movement, Amazing Endurance, Robust Qi-Blood, Blood Birth Phenomenon]

    The effects of the Exotic Beast''s flesh are astonishing.

    Together with Chen Sansi being rtively affluent, even forgoing Blood Replenishing Soup for the fifteen taels per dose of Nine Revolutions Replenishing Essence Soup, how could his speed not be fast?

    "Well done."

    Fang Zongqi said with emotion, "Once you reach ''great sess'' in Blood Refining, you too could be promoted to a g leader, levelling with me."

    "I''ve benefitted from your care during this period, Fang Zongqi."

    After the enhancement of his cultivation, Chen Sansi''s promotion to g leader was a certainty.

    But he feared he would end up a leader in name only.

    After all, the garrison didn''t have that many men.

    Where would he suddenly find fifty men tomand out of thin air?

    At most, he''d be treated with the privileges of a g leader''s rank, but in title only.

    Training in the morning, patrolling the city in the afternoon.

    Ever since they reported the cases of people disappearing, Xiang Tingchun had promptly started to dispatch daily city patrols.

    Moreover, he was very irritable.

    Most of those ranked g leader or higher were scolded on a daily basis.

    After all, the Selection Officer was about to arrive, and not to mention the matter of the Immortal Treasure, just the fact that people were dying daily without any catch of the murderer could lead to a charge of dereliction of duty against him.

    The problem was.

    They truly couldn''t find anything.

    So many deaths certainly couldn''t be the work of just one or two people.

    But Po Yang County was such a small ce, there couldn''t possibly be another ce like the Golden Bell Temple for them to hide.

    Unless, the murders were notmitted by the Witch God Sect at all!

    In that case, it would be natural to find no clues.

    Chen Sansi''s mind, involuntarily, thought of the Medicine Valley he encountered on the mountain that day.

    Being barricaded from such a distance, it waspletely abnormal.

    He just couldn''t understand, why would a martial arts hallmit murder?

    He would go up the mountain to take a look!

    It would also provide an opportunity to hunt something.

    There was still nearly two hundred taels of silver at home, which was enough, but it would also not be bad to hunt something like a ck Bear, after all, he couldn''t make the trip in vain.

    ...

    Early the next morning, Chen Sansi set off.

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    "In recent days, there are still people missing, it''s just that..."

    Zhao Qiao and a few others followed behind, "They''re all countryside folk."

    "The countryside?"

    Neck-deep in martial arts training, Chen Sansi had not participated in the patrols and was aware of the deaths, but he did not know about this detail.

    "Yes."

    Wu Da said, "At first, there were disappearances in both the county town and countryside, but gradually, it changed to only countryside folk going missing, to put it inly, the poor."

    Chen Sansi felt even more that something was wrong.

    The Witch God Sect didn''t discriminate whether you were rich or poor when they killed.

    This kind of thing, only "one''s own people" could do.

    After heading up the mountain, he made his way towards Medicine Valley.

    Before he even reached his destination, he could see from afar three figures standing on the road that led inevitably to Medicine Valley.

    Liang Zhan, Mr. Wu of Golden Bell Temple, and another youth around thirty years old.

    This youth had a cloud pattern on his garment.

    Additionally, considering his mannerisms and how he stood as an equal to the other two, it could only be the young Master of Yunhe Martial Arts Hall, who first had his family business usurped by his uncle, only toter make aeback.

    Why, recently, have all these pampered young masters taken a liking to delving into the deep mountains and dense forests?

    It''s one thing for a single person, but three gathering together¡ªdo they have too much time on their hands?

    Moreover, two li away from Medicine Valley, it''s all guarded by Martial Arts Academy Disciples, not even letting a bird through¡ªit''s clear there''s some unspeakable secret.

    Thinking back carefully.

    The Master of Yunhe Martial Arts Hall, who was mediocre for half his life, suddenly had a breakthrough at a critical moment.

    In the town, it was also around those few days that people started to go missing.

    And then there''s Old Five Song.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    There were rumors that his father was at death''s door, desperately in need of White Deer for healing.

    And what happened?

    So much time has passed, and there hasn''t been any news of a funeral at the Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy.

    On top of that, Old Five Song doesn''t seem to be in any hurry at all.

    No wonderst time I watched helplessly as he took away the White Deer¡ªit''s likely they have some special way of healing.

    All the pieces of the puzzle fit together.

    The disappearances of themoners, they must be connected to them!

    It''s just there''s no evidence for now.

    Chen Sansi has no ns to approach rashly either.

    Just before his eyes, there were three practicing Bone Training.

    Inside Medicine Valley, there must be a few old servants hidden away.

    Concealing Breath and Hiding is not the same as Invisibility Technique; if caught by these people, they could very well do something drastic in desperation.

    First, I''ll go back and break through to Great Sess in Blood Refining; besides, the ten-stone heavy bow is almost ready.

    Ensure that I can retreat safely even when encountering someone in Bone Training, thene back here to explore further.

    Having made up his mind, Chen Sansi left quietly without a sound.

    ...

    "We can''t have any more deaths."

    Liang Zhan advised the two beside him, "Let''s put a halt to it for now."

    "It doesn''t matter!"

    Old Five Song, however, confidently said, "We''re only taking peasants from the countryside, nobodies who won''t have anyone to seek justice for them."

    "Xiang Tingchun has started investigating again, doesn''t Old Five know?"

    Liang Zhan sighed and said, "Let''s just stop for a while. Anyway, your father''s injury has been healed, and besides, we stillck the key Immortal Treasure, killing more people won''t increase its utility."

    "Brother Pan."

    Old Five Song looked towards the young Master of Yunhe Martial Arts Hall: "You''re not still hiding something, are you?"

    "Absolutely not."

    Pan Quan''s expression tightened: "It was with the help of you two that I was able to take back my family business. How could I continue to hide anything? The Immortal Treasure must be in the hands of Xiang Tingchun, I guarantee it!"

    "That bastard Xiang Tingchun."

    Old Five Song cursed: "We sent him a month''s worth of money, grain, and medicinal materials, and he won''t even show us the shadow of the Immortal Treasure!"

    "Indeed, we can''t go on like this."

    Liang Zhan said worriedly: "Up to now, we still don''t even know what the Immortal Treasure is, could Xiang Tingchun at least open the box and show us? As Refining Organ Martial Artists, they''re going too far."

    "On one hand, we don''t know what the Immortal Treasure is, and on the other, even if we had the Immortal Treasure, we wouldn''t know how to use it. This situation is ridiculous."

    "First stop supplying the money, grain, and medicinal materials; we can''t keeppromising blindly."

    "I agree with this opinion."

    ...

    Leaving Medicine Valley.

    Chen Sansi hunted down a ck Bear.

    For him now, it waspletely possible to deal with it easily on his own.

    He went to the creek to meet up with Zhao Qiao and the others.

    Unexpectedly, they had caught a few wolves.

    "Seems your hunting luck has improved recently."

    Chen Sansi first congratted them, then threw a wet nket: "However, I advise you to not go up the mountain for the time being. There may be danger."

    Everyone knew the Martial Arts Academies were responsible for the killings, so it was only right to warn them.

    "Why, Brother Shi?"

    Wu Da asked puzzled: "We''ve finally found a good spot. We''ll definitely be able to shoot wolves again tomorrow."

    "Could stones be harmful to us?"

    As the oldest, Zhao Qiao knew there was a reason behind it: "Starting from tomorrow, we won''t go up the mountain."

    Zhuang Yi expressed his difficulty: "Our family can hardly scrape a meal together."

    "I''ll give you the grain."

    Chen Sansi, now, was not short of money.

    "No way!"

    Zhao Qiao refused: "Brother Shi, we are already grateful that you''re willing to take us hunting in the mountains; how could we possibly take your grain?"

    "Consider it a loan from me, you can pay me back next spring."

    With Chen Sansi insisting, they finally agreed.

    After selling the ck Bear,

    Chen Sansi rushed back to the garrison, nning to achieve Great Sess in one fell swoop.

 Chapter 53 The Blood of Dragon and Elephant

    Military Camp, Pharmacy.

    "There''s no more medicine left?"

    Chen Sansi, who hade to purchase supplemental medicine, was informed that the warehouse was empty, with only Blood Replenishing Soup avable, not Replenishing Essence Soup.

    "On the third of each month, it is the scheduled time for the Martial Arts Hall to send money, grain, and medicine materials."

    Medical Officer Jiang fanned the mes with a cattail leaf fan, speaking unhurriedly, "They are already several dayste, and there''s still no sign of them. I knew it, how could they be willing to keep sending things? Just this month, they must have lost hundreds of thousands of silver taels."

    "Give me a bowl of Blood Replenishing Soup first."

    Chen Sansi said.

    He could roughly guess what was happening.

    Xiang Tingchun''s act of getting something for nothing was almost at its end.

    The people from the Martial Arts Hall weren''t fools; how could they be willing to keep giving things away without receiving anything in return?

    He didn''t know how Xiang Tingchun would deal with it next.

    Anyway, it was none of his business.

    It was nothing more than the medicinal materials bing expensive.

    If it really came down to it, he would just have to make a few extra trips into the mountains. If he couldn''t find Exotic Beasts, there were always plenty of ck bears and Big Worms.

    He drank the entire bowl of Blood Replenishing Soup in one gulp.

    Chen Sansi picked up his long spear and went to the Martial Arts Arena to make his final breakthrough.

    The Blood Refining Realm, from entry-level to small achievement, the Qi-Blood evolves from a single strand to four strands, flowing through the limbs, achieving strength far beyond that of an ordinary person.

    But any cultivation technique is not solely reliant on the limbs.

    Take, for example, spear techniques, which require not only strong arms but also the coordination of the waist, and the lower stance must be stable enough to unleash sufficient power.

    Therefore, having Qi-Blood circting only through the limbs is not enough.

    Only after achieving Blood Refining Great Sess, with Qi-Blood running through the entire body, forming a "´ó" (great) shape internally and fully utilizing the body''s strength, can one truly exhibit the full power of a cultivation technique.

    Wielding the reed leaf spear in his hand, Chen Sansi concentrated on feeling the changes in Qi-Blood within his body.

    The four burning streams of his Qi-Blood had already reached their limit with the practice of the cultivation technique and were in a state where they could no longer improve, just a step away from breaking through and integrating throughout his entire body.

    However.

    It was always just a little bit short.

    It felt as though it was about toe through, yet each time it would retract again.

    Patience!

    Although Chen Sansi hadn''t been practicing Martial Arts for long, he had endured more hardships than anyone else.

    Consuming Beast Meat and pouring down supplemental medicine required frantic cultivation to metabolize.

    Every time he did Pile Work and used the grand Breathing Skill, it was painful, every single time!

    So, he was notcking in patience.

    It was merely a matter of time.

    Calming his mind, Chen Sansi tediously repeated his spear technique over and over again.

    ...

    Wang Zhi saw this and hurriedly pulled Xiang Tingchun over.

    "Don''t deceive me."

    Xiang Tingchun was full of disbelief, "No more than two months at most, Blood Refining Great Sess?"

    "Households Commander Xiang doesn''t believe it?"

    Wang Zhi said with a grin, "I heard that you got a lot of good medicine materials from the Tianyuan Liang Family, including a three-hundred-year-old ginseng."

    "Ginseng only helps Blood Refining Warriors; what do you want it for?"

    Xiang Tingchun realized, "It''s rare indeed, this is the first time I''ve seen you asking for something for someone else. Alright, I promise you, if he makes a breakthrough, I''ll give him the ginseng."

    In the midst of their conversation, the two arrived at the Martial Arts Arena.

    When they saw the dazzling disy of the long spear in the open space, even Xiang Tingchun''s eyebrows revealed astonishment.

    "Fatty Wang, with him achieving Blood Refining Great Sess so quickly, won''t he develop inferior blood?"

    "Rest assured."

    Fatty Wang patted his chest and said, "I taught him the world''s best foundational technique, it''s solid, at least superior Qi-Blood, which won''t hold him back no matter how high or far he goes in the future."

    "You really have something to fall back on."

    Xiang Tingchun did not doubt it andmented, "Tell me, what exactly did you do to end up being sent here? I even specifically looked it up; there''s not a single famous general in the Eight Camps with the surname Wang."

    "Households Commander Xiang really thinks highly of me."

    Wang Zhi said with an expressionless face, "I''m forty-three this year, and still in the Bone Training Realm, how could I ever be qualified to be a general? I''m just a hanger-on doing misceneous tasks."

    Xiang Tingchun said no more and quietly watched the youth on the Martial Arts Arena.

    In the end, Chen Sansi simply closed his eyes, relying entirely on muscle memory to practice the spear technique, while focusing one hundred percent of his attention inside his body, carefully feeling the flow of Qi-Blood.

    He didn''t know how much time had passed.

    He felt the light outside his eyelids grow darker and darker, until it was all ck, until his spear-wielding hands stiffened and lost their agility, until his lungs expanded to their limit and seemed ready to burst and spew blood at any moment.

    Thump!

    Just as his body reached its limit and seemed unable to hold on any longer, all four streams of Qi-Blood flowed back into his heart, and when it coursed out again, it was no longer in four streams but had transformed into thousands of strands prating his limbs and bones, permeating his entire body!

    For the typical Blood Refining Warrior at Great Sess, Qi-Blood would form a rge" character within the body.

    But for Chen Sansi, it spread throughout his entire body.

    This was the true meaning of Qi-Blood permeating the body!

    [Cultivation Technique: Basic Spear Technique of a military soldier (Great Sess)]

    [Utility: Blood of the Dragon Elephant]

    All entry effects were epassed by "Blood of the Dragon Elephant," enhancing the effects significantly.

    Chen Sansi began circting his Qi-Blood again and could feel "Blood of the Dragon Elephant" seemingly tempering his bones and meridians.

    No wonder Blood Refining is important.

    Within the Bone Training Realm, one relies on the cultivated Qi-Blood to temper the bones; the higher the quality of Qi-Blood, the better the effect.

    He just wasn''t sure what level "Blood of the Dragon Elephant" was.

    The system no longer disyed progress, and he needed to switch to a Bone Training cultivation technique.

    He should go and ask Wang Zhi about it.

    "Good!"

    As he was lost in thought, a cheer sounded in his ear.

    Chen Sansi opened his eyes. Continue your adventure with empire

    He then realized that not much time had actually passed.

    Looking at the sky, it had been only about two hours.

    However, themotion had been great, drawing many onlookers.

    The person leading the cheers was Xiang Tingchun.

    His eyes showed a mix of admiration and envy as he said, "Just two months of practicing martial arts, and reaching Blood Refining Great Sess, our Po Yang Thousand Households have truly produced a genius!"

    Chen Sansi held his long spear and cupped his fists, "Commander Xiang tters me."

    "No need for modesty, from this day on, you''re promoted to g leader, but..."

    Xiang Tingchun smiled wryly, "Though there is a vacancy, we have no extra manpower to allocate to you.

    "Let''s start you off with the treatment of a g leader. Later, if more people enlist, they will be prioritized under yourmand.

    "Additionally, this officer will reward you with a three-hundred-year-old Blood Ginseng.

    "Those under yourmand will also receive rewards, military soldiers will get two doses of Replenishing Essence Soup, and Array Soldiers will receive two taels of silver, the silver will be provided by this officer himself!"

    "Thank you, sir."

    Chen Sansi was certainly not going to be polite.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Well done."

    Xiang Tingchun nodded in satisfaction, then turned to the watching soldiers and scolded, "All of you, train diligently, and you''ll earn your rewards too!"

    After speaking, he strode away, hand on the hilt of his sword at his waist.

    Returning to his tent, Luo Dongquan followed close behind him.

    "My lord, those people have sent their reply."

    He reported, "The Martial Arts Hall says they fully support your decision to deploy troops, but they see no sincerity from you. They also say that with you being so secretive, perhaps the Immortal Treasure is not in your possession at all, and you''re just ying them for fools."

    Truly, people won''t give up until they see the hare caught.

    Xiang Tingchun then asked, "What about the Witch God Sect Followers, were they found?"

    "I am ipetent!" Luo Dongquan said, bowing his head.

    "You have five hundred men to search the city daily and still can''t find them?!"

    Xiang Tingchun felt a headacheing on.

    If he couldn''t find the Witch God Sect followers who slipped through the, where would he get the Immortal Treasure for the Martial Arts Hall?

    To hell with the Immortal Treasure!

    No matter what, it shouldn''t affect the campaign nned for next spring.

    It seemed that without taking some drastic action, he wouldn''t get them to listen!

    "Crack¡ª"

    "Endure when it is bearable, but when it is no longer bearable, then stop enduring!"

    Xiang Tingchun crushed the teacup in his hand into powder, "Luo, think of something, we need to pin an offense on the Martial Arts Hall."

    "My lord?!" Luo Dongquan was astonished, "This seems improper?"

    "What''s improper about it?"

    Xiang Tingchun said coldly, "They have backers, do you think I don''t? Who do you believe approved my deployment of troops? Just do as I say!"

    "I understand, my lord."

 Chapter 54 Recruitment

    "Hundred Households Wang.

    "Earlier, you mentioned that Qi-Blood cultivated has quality differences, so what quality would my Qi-Blood be?"

    Chen Sansi voiced his doubts.

    "The Qi-Blood developed through a lower-tier Breathing Skill is symbolized by a ''big'' character.

    "The bigger and thicker this character, the better.

    "After refining the Haoran Breathing Skill, it will be at least twice as strong as the Qi-Blood produced by ordinary breathing skills.

    "More than that depends on talent.

    "Being able to circte it throughout the body is naturally best.

    "You''re asking about this, surely you haven''t..."

    Wang Zhi ced a hand on the youth''s body: "Circte your Qi-Blood so I can see!"

    Chen Sansiplied.

    "Your Qi-Blood is of the highest quality!"

    Wang Zhi eximed, "Just like me when I started, it circtes throughout the body, but the time spent is significantly less. Steady, even if the Supervisor himself were toe, he would take you in!"

    "Highest quality?"

    Chen Sansi cautiously inquired, "Is there anything more special?"

    "There is, one in ten thousand!"

    Wang Zhi exined patiently and in detail, "Those individuals possess an innate Martial Arts physique, born with a body different from ordinary people, learning the same martial arts faster and with better effects."

    "For example, the Tiger Sha physique, the Golden Python physique, they are destined to reach great heights in Martial Arts.

    "But don''t be disheartened, your bones are definitely sufficient, you can reach great heights as well."

    Chen Sansi nodded, pondering quietly to himself.

    There really were "Abnormal Bodies," but all were innate.

    His Dragon Elephant Blood belonged to the acquired category, and moreover, it wasn''t a "physique," but merely a phenomenon urring in the Qi-Blood.

    Seemed simr to archery.

    The proficiency panel would, over time, transform him more suitable for the Cultivation Techniques he practiced.

    "Select a Cultivation Technique!"

    Wang Zhi was prepared and pulled out three booklets from his bosom: "After you achieve great sess in Blood Refining, you must start practicing Bone Strengthening Skills, each of these three is a subsequent book tailored to different emphases in the basic spear techniques of infantry."

    Chen Sansi aimed his gaze, and the names of several Cultivation Techniques were:

    "Flying Snake Wind Spear," "Heaven Python Breaking Formation Spear," "Undying Golden Snake Spear."

    "These are only avable to me; the rest from the Households can only study ''Advanced Spear Skills.''"

    Wang Zhi exined, "These three books focus on speed, strength, and endurance, respectively.

    "My rmendation is the Heaven Python Breaking Formation Spear, cultivating it results in an incredibly fierce spear technique, unmatched on the battlefield! The Commander himself had studied this in his youth.

    "Next, the Flying Snake Spear Technique moves like the wind, capable of taking a life within a blink of an eye from twenty steps away. In the world of martial arts, speed is unbeatable.

    "As for the Undying Golden Snake, it''s also known in the Eight Camps as the Extraordinarily Ordinary Spear, not as fast or fierce as the previous two, its only advantage being that it consumes Qi-Blood more slowly inbat. However, this is also rtive and varies from person to person."

    Before he finished speaking, "Undying Golden Snake" was already in Chen Sansi''s hand: "I choose this one."

    "Are you sure?" Wang Zhi seriously said, "This isn''t a joke, think carefully."

    "Sure."

    Chen Sansi had thought it through deeply.

    For long-range assaults, he had archery.

    In terms of speed and fierceness, his previous enhancement entries covered it, now epassed by the "Dragon Elephant Blood," only to yield better effects,cking nothing.

    In his view, the only way to survive on the battlefield was through endurance.

    He remembered the first spar with Xu Bin.

    It was by relying on endurance that he had won against someone of a higher realm.

    And then there was the time at the Golden Bell Temple.

    Among the Witch God Sect Followers were quite a few fierce men.

    But what use were they? Their fierceness didn''tst long before their Qi-Blood was depleted, eventually being hacked to death by a group of Array Soldiers.

    "Young man, it seems you have experienced the benefits of the Haoran Breathing Skill, obsessed with endurance."

    Wang Zhi brought out a jar of wine: "Everyone has their own path; I won''t say more. Want to join me for a drink to celebrate your promotion?"

    "No, thanks. I still have things to do."

    Chen Sansi had previously promised to lend grain to Zhao Qiao and the others, best not to dy.

    "Congrattions, Chen Zongqi!"

    Once outside, many people came up to congratte him.

    However, the happiest were under hismand.

    Their leader had achieved a breakthrough in cultivation, and they also got to reap the rewards.

    Two portions of Blood Replenishing Soup, which would cost sixty taels of silver at market price, what a concept.

    "Following Stone was the right choice, the silver spent on practicing Martial Arts has all paid off in one go."

    Zhu Tong was so happy that he couldn''t close his mouth.

    Xu Wencai also managed to get two taels of silver, extremely pleased.

    He followed behind, "My lord, are you leaving the camp? I need to go home too. Let''s go together."

    Chen Sansi asked, "Hasn''t your family lost its home? What are you going back for?"

    "To erect a monument."

    Xu Wencai blinked vigorously, "The grave of my mother is still just a piece of wood. Now, thanks to your lordship''s reward, I''m nning to hire a craftsman to erect a proper monument."

    "Let''s go."

    Chen Sansi habitually carried his bow and arrows and spear.

    He loaded two bags of rice on the White Swan Horse and walked leisurely along the road with Xu Wencai.

    The White Swan Horse didn''t need to be led attentively; it automatically followed closely behind them.

    "My lord is truly impressive."

    Xu Wencai patted the horse, "Even such a spirited horse can be tamed by you. You will surely achieve great things in the future!"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi didn''t know how to respond to such clumsy ttery.

    Xu Wencai cleared his throat awkwardly and changed the subject, "My lord, do you need me to write an article for you, to recruit some hands?"

    "Recruit hands?" Chen Sansi asked, "You mean the vacancies under me?"

    "Exactly!"

    Xu Wencai spoke earnestly, "I must admit, I am somewhat skilled in judging people, and having interacted with you these days, I have grown increasingly convinced that you are extraordinary and will definitely achieve great things in the future..."

    "Stop, stop!"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Chen Sansi''s scalp tingled awkwardly as he interrupted, "Let''s talk about recruitmentter. There''s no rush."

    "How can you say there''s no rush, my lord?"

    Xu Wencai spoke vividly, "Remember, the Grand Ancestor of the former dynasty started a rebellion and killed officials while being deported for military service, and many of those with himter became founding heroes.

    "And about our dynasty''s Grand Ancestor, the sworn brothers he made during his time as a house ve formed the cornerstone of the Sheng Dynasty''s foundation in its early years.

    "From this, it can be seen that to achieve great things, one must recruit a team early!"

    "Achieve great things?"

    The more Chen Sansi listened, the more uneasy he felt, "What are you nning to do?!"

    "Cough, cough, my lord, please don''t misunderstand."

    Xu Wencai said, "The war ising in the spring. The more people we have under ourmand, the better our chances of victory, right?"

    "You write then."

    This was what Chen Sansi observed as he traveled.

    He saw many vigers still in tattered clothes. Joining the army, at least, allowed them to have enough to eat and stay warm.

    Of course, the price might be dying on the battlefield.

    Whether they could be recruited or not, it would be left to fate.

    "Alright!"

    Xu Wencai was particrly excited, "Watch closely, my lord!"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi began to wonder what this guy was doing all day if he wasn''t training.

    As the two chatted leisurely, they reached the entrance of Yanbian Vige.

    "Sansi, you''ve got some nerveing back. You''ve brought disaster on the vigers!"

    A familiar bitter voice came through.

    Chen Sansi remained unirritated, "Uncle Lai Zi, what''s the matter now? How have I brought disaster upon the vigers?"

    "Yes, you''ve ruined Zhao Qiao!"

    "Uncle Zhao?"

    Chen Sansi frowned, "What happened to him? I told him recently not to go up the mountain."

    "Who said anything happened on the mountain?" Explore stories on empire

    Uncle Lai Zi pursed his lips, "Many students from the martial arts academy blockaded Zhao Qiao''s house in the vige. You must have offended someone!"

    "Could it be Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy?"

    Chen Sansi asked, "Who exactly was there?"

    "The ones whost time trapped Zhang Shun to repair the canal, and one with a missing ear, whom they called ''Big Brother!'' "

    Uncle Lai Zi looked at the young man mounting his horse and warned, "You really dare to go? There''s a whole group of them. Aren''t you afraid of being killed?"

    "Let''s go!"

    Without responding, Chen Sansi charged on the White Swan Horse into the vige.

    Being killed?

    It wasn''t certain yet who would be the one in danger.

    The White Swan Horse disappeared in the blink of an eye, leaving Xu Wencai coughing in the rising dust.

    He covered his mouth with his sleeve and asked, "Neighbor, how many of them are there?"

    "More than thirty!" Uncle Lai Zi widened his eyes, "Each one armed with a sword, very intimidating!"

    Upon hearing this, Xu Wencai did not follow into the vige; instead, he turned and ran toward the direction of the Households Office.

 Chapter 55 Killing in the Street

    ```

    "Are you sure, they have a good rtionship with Chen Sansi?"

    "Positive!"

    Huang Tao, his face half wrapped in bandages, sat on a stool.

    In front of him were two Martial Arts Academy Disciples bowing and scraping.

    They were Zhang Chao and Li Hao.

    How could Huang Tao, who had had an ear chopped off, easily swallow this grudge?

    He hated that kid in the garrison, hated him so much his teeth itched.

    But he couldn''t beat him in a fight.

    So he had to resort to underhand tactics.

    His fellow servant disciples, Zhang Chao and Li Hao, knew this and ran to offer their advice.

    They said they had a way, although they couldn''t kill Chen Sansi, they could teach him a lesson.

    That was to strike at the people around him.

    You think you''re great, you''re tough, what about the people around you?

    "Positive!"

    Zhang Chao affirmed with certainty, "We saw with our own eyesst time, that Chen guy leading those three hunters, they killed a ck bear and even shot an arrow at us, their rtionship is surely good!"

    They harbored resentment butcked the guts and strength for revenge.

    Having finally caught an opportunity, of course, they wanted to get involved.

    "This move is definitely effective!"

    Li Hao said proudly, "That kid used to have a brother who was sent by us to work on the Canal, his fate unknown to this day, what can he do to us?"

    "Eldest senior brother, are you really sure about this?"

    Wei Xu at his side was somewhat anxious, "Mr. Wu said before, don''t provoke him lightly¡­"

    "What about my ear?!"

    Huang Tao said angrily, "I dare not kill him, but do I even dare not touch a few poor hunters? Let him see that people suffer because of him, it''s at least a constion!"

    "Exactly."

    Zhang Chao egged on, "We called over thirty brothers today, he''s just one person, what''s there to fear? Moreover, it''s broad daylight, would he dare to kill someone in the street?"

    "Well said!"

    Huang Tao waved his handmandingly, "Bring those few hunters up here!"

    Several Martial Arts Academy Disciples brought up three hunters with bruised and swollen faces.

    They were none other than Zhao Qiao, Wu Da, and Zhuang Yi.

    "Let go of me, damn your ancestors¡ª¡ª"

    "Deserve a p, who are you cursing?!"

    Zhang Chao stepped up and pped him.

    "You... on what grounds are you arresting us?"

    Wu Da''s mouth was bloody, "We haven''t broken anyws!"

    "Haven''t broken anyws?"

    Li Hao reached into his robe and pulled out a cracked Jade Pendant, "Then what''s this? You steal our eldest senior brother''s property and now deny it?"

    "You''re talking nonsense, you''re framing us!"

    Wu Da cursed loudly.

    This morning, Martial Arts Academy Disciples suddenly burst into his home and found a Jade Pendant that he had never seen before.

    They used the three of conspiring to steal.

    The framing was crude and brutal, with no logic.

    "Paupers!"

    Huang Tao said coldly, "You go hunting on the mountain and steal my things, rural folk are truly low!"

    "You''re also from the countryside!"

    Zhuang Yi shouted, "Aren''t you Huang Tao? Your family used to weave straw mats in Qian Family Vige, it''s only after your sister became the concubine of the seventy-year-old Mr. Feng in town that you got to join the Martial Arts Hall..."

    "Shut your mouth!"

    Huang Tao, ovee with rage and embarrassment, stomped on his face, "ther any more nonsense, and I''ll smash your head into pieces!"

    Zhao Qiao, being older, understood that arguing was futile.

    He pleaded, "Sir, please show us a way out, how can we get you to spare us?"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Compensate? You couldn''t afford it anyway."

    Huang Tao revealed his true purpose, "I''m magnanimous and will give you a chance. Go call Chen Sansi over here, let hime and apologize for you!"

    "We... we don''t know Chen Sansi!"

    Zhao Qiao startlingly dered.

    "Uncle Zhao?"

    Wu Da and Zhuang Yi looked bewildered, wondering why he would say that.

    Zhao Qiao gave a slight shake of his head, signaling with his eyes.

    He had seen the truth.

    These people were targeting Chen Sansi.

    ```

    ```

    There were seven or eight men standing in front of them, with at least twenty more hidden nearby, each with a treasure sword hanging at their waist.

    Clearly, they dared not trouble the military garrison, hoping to use them to lure the hunter out into the street to make things difficult for him!

    Indeed.

    Zhao Qiao knew he was implicated for no reason.

    But if it weren''t for their insistence on having the hunter lead them up the mountain, this wouldn''t have happened.

    Having benefitted from his kindness, one couldn''tin when faced with such a situation.

    Nor could they harm the hunter.

    They might not understand martial arts, but they knew these were dozens of martial masters. Even if the hunter could fight a tiger, he would suffer greatly if he came.

    "Don''t know him?!"

    Huang Tao saw through his thoughts, "You dogs, beat him!"

    Zhang Chao and Li Hao were the first to raise their hands.

    In no time at all, the three of them were covered in blood, bruised all over.

    This scene was witnessed from a distance by many vigers of Yanbian Vige.

    But they were angry yet dared not speak.

    Huang Tao lost his patience, "Forget it, Wei, you go to the garrison to trick Chen out!"

    "Me?"

    Continue reading at empire

    Wei Xu''s head shook like a rattle drum, clearlycking the courage.

    He pointed at Zhang Chao, "You two go."

    "Ah, brother?"

    Zhang Chao and Li Hao kept retreating, "We... we don''t know where the Households is located!"

    "Da-da-da¡ª"

    Suddenly, the sound of galloping hooves, like war drums, rang in their ears.

    Looking in the direction of the sound, they saw a cloud of dust rising at the end of the muddy road.

    A white steed rushed out from the midst of the yellow sand.

    On the horse sat a young man in armor, carrying a bow, arrows, and a long spear on his back. The dust was so thick that his expression could not be seen clearly.

    "It''s him!"

    Zhang Chao and Li Hao sighed with relief, "He''se!"

    "Good timing!"

    Huang Tao showed a hint of joy.

    He shouted in the direction of the young man, deliberately loud, "Chen, your fellow vigers stole from me, I advise you to stay out of this!"

    "Hunter, they are many, be careful..."

    Zhao Qiao wanted to give a warning, but was too injured to raise his voice.

    "Shut up!"

    Huang Tao kicked him, continuing to shout, "If you really want to meddle, that''s not impossible, but you''ll have to kneel and apologize for them! Otherwise, I''ll chop off their limbs and send them to the county government prison!"

    "Da-da-da-da-da¡ª"

    No response came, only the sound of the hooves racing.

    "Chen, our elder martial brother is talking to you, didn''t you hear him?"

    Zhang Chao and the others took a step forward, "Get off your horse!"

    They didn''t have the courage to approach him alone.

    But with over thirty fellow disciples standing behind them, they suddenly found their courage, and it was considerable!

    Still no response.

    Just the warhorse rapidly approaching.

    "Why do I feel something is not right?"

    Li Hao felt a bit uneasy, noticing that the young man on the horse had at some point reced the reins in his hands with a bow and arrow, and was aiming at him.

    "Bang¡ª"

    Under everyone''s gaze, a ck shadow shed past, directly piercing through Li Hao''s heart. He fell headfirst, motionless.

    "Ah?!"

    Zhang Chao''s mouth hung open.

    This was nothing like what he had imagined.

    To kill upon arrival? How could he dare!

    The faux courage he had borrowed instantly shattered.

    The second arrow swiftly followed, its head piercing directly into his mouth and exiting through the back of his skull, killing him instantly.

    Everything happened too quickly.

    Both Huang Tao''s group and the sneaking vigers were rendered speechless, standing petrified in ce.

    "Hush¡ª"

    Finally, it was the young man''s voice that broke the silence.

    "I don''t have many arrows left."

    Chen Sansi lowered his head to nce at his arrow bag, and calmly stated, "Aside from Huang Tao and Wei Xu, anyone else who wants to live can leave. However, I will only count to ten."

    ```

 Chapter 56 Rivers of Blood

    Discover hidden content at empire

    "Ten!"

    As the countdown began, everyone suddenly snapped to attention.

    "Murder!"

    The vigers of Yanbian Vige had never seen such a bloody scene before.

    Not to mention the murderer.

    It was their once-familiar Stone!

    Just a few months ago, he had been holding saint books, intending to sit for the imperial examination.

    Suddenly, he was holding a bow, having killed a man!

    "What high office has Stone taken on to dare kill a Martial Arts Academy Disciple in the streets?"

    "Well done, well done indeed!"

    Eight out of ten people had been bullied by those from the Martial Arts Hall.

    After all.

    Many farmers had theirnd cheaply bought up byndlords with the help of martial masters.

    "You... you''ve got some nerve!"

    Huang Tao came back to his senses amid the shock, "A small g,mitting murder in the street, is there now?!"

    The young man on the horse showed no emotion as he slowly drew an arrow and notched it to the bowstring, muttering, "Nine."

    "Fellow brothers, let''s take him down together!"

    Huang Tao drew his sword, "Even if Ting Chun himself came today, there''s no reason to protect him!"

    The nging sounds continued to erupt.

    des of gleaming swords were unsheathed, thirty-odd Martial Artists blocking the path of the White Horse.

    "Six!"

    The countdown did not stop.

    The people from Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy were getting panicked.

    Was this person really nning to kill them all?

    "What are you afraid of?!"

    Huang Tao roared, "He is just one person!"

    "Big brother, perhaps we should call Mr. Wu!"

    The people from the Martial Arts Hall, after all, were not an army.

    These disciples, not only did they not receive a sry, but many also had to pay tuition every year. Bullying others was one thing, but dying for it?

    Don''t joke, no one is a fool.

    "Right, big brother, I also think we should call Mr. Wu to handle him!"

    "Three!"

    "Two!"

    "tter¡ª"

    Before the countdown ended, the vast majority of Martial Arts Academy Disciples turned on their heels and ran.

    "Why are you running?!"n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Huang Tao''s shouts were futile, and soon only five or six people remained, either hotheads or those closely rted to him.

    Even Wei Xu was about to run.

    "You stop right there!"

    Huang Tao grabbed Wei Xu, pulling him back, "Mr. Chen said, You can''t escape with me!"

    Chen Sansi raised his longbow:

    "Ladies and gentlemen, time''s about up!"

    As his words fell, the Kaiyuan Bowstring sounded like thunder, arrows shooting in rapid session!

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    Whether it was the Disciples with Blood Cultivation Introduction or Blood Refining Minor Sess, as long as they were still present, they were shot through the head one after another¡ªits speed and uracy unmatchable even if they desperately tried to close in.

    These people all died instant brain deaths without any pain, enjoying sheer bliss.

    "Big brother, I told you not toe!"

    Wei Xu''s voice carried a sobbing tone. He tossed his sword to the ground, desperately trying to run.

    "Splurch¡ª"

    Before he could even lift his leg, his back chilled, and he died from the arrow.

    In less than ten seconds, only Huang Tao was left.

    His hand holding the sword trembled slightly.

    Arrow after arrow, each hitting its mark, leaving no chance even to dodge!

    "Drive!"

    Chen Sansi put away his bow and charged forward on his horse, wielding a long spear with the force of thunder towards thest remaining man.

    "I will fight you with all I''ve got!"

    With no retreat, Huang Tao summoned his Qi-blood to face the towering warhorse charging at him.

    He was utterly defeated in terms of courage.

    Moreover, with Chen Sansi having achieved Great Sess and riding a warhorse, not even a single exchange urred before the reed leaf gun pierced through Huang Tao''s heart, skewering his body and carrying it dozens of feet through the air before Chen Sansi stopped his horse, pulled out the long spear, and let the body slide to the ground.

    All returned to dead silence.

    The yellow mud road of Yanbian Vige was stained red with fresh blood.

    "Oh my goodness!"

    Lai Zi was so frightened by the scene, he sat down on the ground, "Crazy, crazy!"

    "Brother Shi..."

    Zhao Qiao barely managed to regain his senses from the shock, "How, how do we handle this?"

    "Brother Shi took on so many of them by himself?!"

    Wu Da first admired, then worried, "Having killed so many Martial Arts Academy Disciples, they wille looking for you immediately."

    "Brother Shi, let''s run together!"

    Zhuang Yi suggested, "Let''s go to the next county, be bandits in the mountains!"

    Chen Sansi, however, was calm andposed.

    He had long wanted to kill Li Chao and Zhang Hao, no need to mention it.

    The rest couldn''t be allowed to stay either.

    It wasn''t because he enjoyed killing recklessly and without consideration for consequences.

    Keeping these people around would be like having a pack of hyenas constantly surrounding him, swarming in at the first sign of vulnerability.

    However, he dared to kill because he had the confidence to do so.

    Recently, military supplies had been interrupted, giving Xiang Tingchun a headache.

    If things escted to an unmanageable point, Chen Sansi couldpletely expose the affairs of Medicine Valley.

    Xiang Tingchun dreamed of having real leverage over the Martial Arts Hall.

    Even if he couldn''t find evidence, given his knack for conjuring benefits from thin air, he would create some.

    At this time, the Martial Arts Academy and the army were at odds; there was no need to worry about making a big fuss.

    In dealing with people and affairs, one must judge the situation.

    Moreover, Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy was not like the other three; it was currently very weak.

    The Old Master was just recovering from a serious injury. Though not dead, he was still in closed-door healing.

    The only one active outside was Mr. Wu.

    Mr. Wu had not trained in Bone Training for long and was practicing an inferior Breathing Skill from Jianghu.

    Chen Sansi, with the blood of the Dragon Elephant enhancing him, did not just have a good chance of winning;plete retreat without issue was 100% certain.

    Zhao Qiao naturally was unaware of these details and worriedly said, "Brother Shi, let''s run fast!"

    "Uncle Zhao worries too much, there will be no trouble," Chen Sansi reassured him as his ears twitched slightly, "More people areing, you guys go hide inside the house first."

    He heard groups of people urgently approaching from both the front and back ends of the vige.

    ...

    "Damned fools! Why didn''t you stop them?"

    Mr. Wu was sprinting, with a disciple struggling to keep up behind him.

    "Mr. Wu, he is the eldest apprentice brother, how could we stop him?"

    "At such a critical time, why does this fool always seek trouble? We should have never epted him!"

    Mr. Wu''s expression was grave.

    A few hours ago, his father, still recovering from an injury, was invited by Xiang Tingchun to a banquet at the Eight Treasures Building and hadn''t returned since.

    It was definitely about the issues of money and food supplies.

    Xiang Tingchun would definitely find a way to make things difficult for them.

    And at this very time, he learned that Huang Tao had led people to surround Chen Sansi.

    If that kid got hurt, wouldn''t it hand the advantage right into the hands of someone surnamed Xiang?

    "You, what''s going on?!"

    As Mr. Wu neared the ce, he encountered arge group of his own disciples running out of the vige.

    "Mr. Wu?!"

    The disciples, previously terrified, managed to pull themselves together upon seeing him.

    "Mr. Wu, it''s terrible! Someone was killed... someone was killed!"

    "Did you kill Chen Sansi?!"

    Mr. Wu felt a sense of foreboding.

    Thest time on Tiger Head Mountain, he had seen the young man, and although powerful, he was after all only a small achiever of Blood Cultivating Introduction.

    Huang Tao had taken more than thirty fellow apprentice brothers, including seven or eight of Blood Refining Minor Sess.

    If they surrounded him, Chen Sansi was bound to suffer.

    Yet, the answer that came waspletely the opposite.

    "No..."

    The disciple, breathless, "It''s that military household, he went on a rampage, killed so many of our people!"

    "What?!"

    Mr. Wu quickened his pace.

    When he arrived at the scene, he saw bodies scattered all over the ground.

    Huang Tao, Wei Xu, along with several True Inheritors.

    Mr. Wu looked at Chen Sansi seated on the back of a horse and flew into a rage.

    "How dare you, you wretch?!"

 Chapter 57 First Glimpse of Human Nature

    These True Disciples were all cultivated with a tremendous amount of effort.

    Just to be ughtered like chickens and dogs?

    Wasn''t he at small achievement in Blood Refining?

    He broke through again?

    But even if it was at Blood Refining Great Sess, Huang Tao was as well, and he had many helpers around him, so how could they all get killed, are they all useless?!

    After the shock had passed, Old Five Song was once again enveloped in rage, and he roared, "Have you gone too far? Come,e, seize him for me!"

    The disciples who had been scared off before, now that Mr. Wu of the bone training martial artist personally took charge, regained their courage and cautiously drew their swords, edging towards the White Swan Horse.

    "Who dares to make a move?!"

    Just at that moment.

    A voice, with a trace of age and cunning, rang out.

    Xu Wencai was seen rushing back, breathless.

    Following him were the officials from the Po Yang Thousand Households.

    Leading the charge was Fang Zongqi, followed by Xu Bin, Zhu Tong, Wang Li, and others.

    Together, they numbered around forty or fifty people.

    "..."

    Chen Sansi hadn''t noticed Xu Wencai before, it seemed he had gone back to fetch people.

    The garrison officials carried long spears and lined up on either side of him, confronting the Martial Arts Academy Disciples.

    "My lord!"

    Xu Wencai said breathlessly, "Hundred Households Wang and Households Commander Xiang aren''t in the camp, I could only find Fang Zongqi!"

    "Why are there so many dead people?"

    Fang Zongqi, looking at the corpses on the ground, realized the situation was serious.

    He steeled himself and cupped his fists, "Mr. Wu, is there a misunderstanding?"

    "Misunderstanding your mother''s head!"

    Old Five Song, unable to control his emotions, said, "You killed so many of my people, and you say it''s a misunderstanding?

    "What do you all want bying here with so many people, to kill even me?!"

    "Of course not."

    Fang Zongqi tried to mediate, "How about this, let Chen Zongqie back with us first, and after Lord Thousand Households returns, we''ll discuss how to handle this."

    "I don''t need you!"

    Old Five Song was beside himself with anger, "Today, I will personally capture him alive and take him before Xiang Tingchun to see how he intends to exin this to me!"

    As he spoke, he snatched a sword from the hand of a disciple nearby and prepared to take action himself.

    "Chen Zongqi!"

    Fang Ping, his voice low, advised, "You should leave first, we''ll stall them for a while¡­ wait, what are you doing?!"

    Before he could finish speaking, the young man beside him charged out with his spear raised and riding his horse forward.

    "He''s a bone training martial artist!"

    Fang Ping couldn''t stop him and could only watch helplessly as the two sides shed with incredible speed.

    "There''s a world of difference between Blood Refining and Bone Training, where did you get the courage?!"

    Old Five Song''s Qi-Blood erupted, and the meridians in his body suddenly swelled, wrapping around his bones inch by inch with a sound like popping beans, his muscles bulged as if he were a humanoid beast.

    The moment he moved, his feet left deep pits in the yellow mud, with the scenery on both sides retreating rapidly, and in a sh, he was only about ten steps away from the White Horse, his Treasure Sword roaring like thunder, fast as lightning.

    Thunderbolt Sword Technique!

    Old Five Song was consumed by rage.

    He focused on the reed leaf spear raised high in the young man''s hand, nning to dodge this strike and then close in quickly, first to y the warhorse, then sever the young man''s arm, and finally to capture him alive.

    When they were about seven steps apart, a cold light suddenly red.

    Without knowing when, the spear tip was thrusting forward!

    Old Five Song had concentrated all his attention on the long spear, yet he failed to notice when the opponent made his move, how did he do it?!

    He quickly abandoned his offensive stance to block with his Treasure Sword.

    With one strike, both sides didn''t stop advancing and passed by each other.

    Old Five Song''s sword in his hand continued to tremble, his anger lessening, reced by astonishment.

    This move.

    He hadn''t gained any advantage, at most he had used his realm to suppress the opponent, gaining a slight upper hand in strength.

    Chen Sansi reined in his horse, no less tense.

    Old Five Song, just at entry-level in bone training, already possessed such fierce power, bone training martial artists should not be underestimated.

    ```

    Fortunately, he had the augmentation of the Dragon Elephant Bloodline topensate for most of the disparity, and all he had to do next was to give it his all, and he might well be a match for his opponent.

    "Again!"

    Song Lao Wuunched another attack.

    The others watched their fight, unsure of what to do.

    "He just achieved Great Sess, and he can spar with a Bone Trainer martial artist?!"

    Fang Ping couldn''t believe it.

    But the situation was urgent, and he had no time to be astounded, "We can''t let them go on fighting, no matter who gets injured, there''s no easy way out. I need to find Lord Thousand Households!"

    What a coincidence.

    Not long before, arge number of troops had been called away from the Garrison.

    Including Wang Zhi, Liu Jinkui, and several other Hundred Household officers, they were escorting a cart of something to the county city, seemingly on a mission.

    Those left in camp were the ones who had rtions with Chen Sansi; naturally, they had toe and see what the trouble was.

    He was unable to manage the situation now.

    Blinded by rage, nobody could stop them.

    "Brothers, kill!"

    "Huh?!"

    Zhu Tong''s eyes bulged as he swung his war hammer, ready to charge forward.

    "Kill my ass!"

    Fang Ping scolded, "Do you think you are on a battlefield? Have you lost your mind? Xu Bin, keep an eye on them, I''ll go look for Hundred Households Wang; we must stabilize the situation and not let it escte any further!"

    He rushed toward the county city in great haste.

    "Are we really just going to stand here and watch?!"

    Zhu Tong pointed at the Martial Arts Academy Disciples, "There are so many of them, are we going to let Chen Sansi take them on alone?"

    As Song Lao Wu and the young man fiercely fought not far away, the Martial Arts Academy Disciples were itching to move in. At any sign of the young man faltering or getting injured, they nned to gang up on him.

    "You, surname Xu!" Explore more at empire

    Zhu Tong cursed, "How has Chen Sansi treated you in normal times, don''t make me lose respect for you!"N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Damn it, do you think I need you to tell me that?!"

    Xu Bin drew his reed leaf gun, "Brothers, surround those from the Martial Arts Hall!"

    "g Leader Fang said not to act rashly!"

    Another small g tried to intervene.

    Xu Bin ignored him.

    Zhu Tong was right.

    Since meeting Chen Sansi, Xu Bin knew very well how Chen Sansi had treated him.

    If he didn''t help at a time like this, would he even be a man?

    Xu Bin had always been conscientious and responsible, and his men respected him and were willing to follow his orders.

    As for Wang Li and the others, needless to say.

    They had just received favors, and even if they didn''t go up to help, they couldn''t stand by and watch their boss be ambushed.

    There was also a small g that was willing to help.

    The fifty government soldiers that came to Yanbian Vige, thirty of them charged out and encircled the Martial Arts Academy Disciples.

    "What are you doing?!"

    The Martial Arts Academy Disciples looked at the dense long spears, "You drew first blood, and now you dare surround us; are you nning to massacre innocent people?!"

    "To hell with innocent people!"

    Zhu Tong smashed his hammer into the chest of the man who spoke, who instantly spat blood and passed out.

    The rest of the Martial Arts Academy Disciples immediately mmed up.

    "Nobody move!"

    Xu Bin roared, "Anyone harboring ill intentions will be executed without mercy!"

    The Martial Arts Academy Disciples, for the most part hooligans at heart, promptly stood at attention, all ncing towards their boss, Mr. Wu.

    If Mr. Wu could just defeat that kid, there was no rush for them to act tough then.

    Conversely, without Mr. Wu''s support, they truly didn''t dare to fight to the death.

    ¡­

    Xu Bin watched the fight anxiously.

    The two men fighting were at a level he simply could not get involved in.

    He could only hope that Chen Sansi could hold on until Fang Zongqi could summon help.

    ```

 Chapter 58 Killing the Chicken to Warn the Monkey

    Sword shadows and spear glimmers crossed and flickered.

    Battle horses neighed fiercely, and figures moved swiftly.

    Every time their weapons collided, Chen Sansi had to exert his full strength to parry.

    It''s no wonder Old Fifth Song was so confident before he made his move.

    The gap between Bone Training and Blood Refining was indeed vast.

    However, for Chen Sansi, as long as he could withstand the first onught, it meant that he would not lose and even had a very high chance of winning.

    Because,

    he could keep it up indefinitely!

    The power of the Dragon Elephant bloodline was not only formidable, but its efficiency far exceeded that of ordinary Qi-Blood.

    With the same amount of Qi-Blood consumption, an ordinary person could deliver one strike, while Chen Sansi could deliver at least three. As time dragged on, the longer it went, the greater his chance of winning naturally became.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    The person who understood this most deeply was naturally Old Fifth Song himself.

    "What kind of freak is this!"

    His Thunderbolt Sword Technique was definitely considered excellent in a ce like Po Yang County.

    Plus, with his Bone Training and Blood Refining, he was suppressing across levels. That he couldn''t take down his opponent quickly was one thing, but after dozens of exchanges, he hadn''t felt the slightest sign of being able to win.

    The youth''s spear technique was pure and refined. Although it appeared that he was always on the defensive, in reality, if he was the slightest bit careless, the next second the spear tip would be thrusting straight at his face.

    Additionally, the opponent was riding a warhorse, looking down from above, coordinating with a long spear over a meter in length to sweep in all directions. Old Fifth Song couldn''t get close at all and could only ever gamble against the sharp spear tip, unable to even injure the horse below.

    His heart grew impatient.

    "After all, it''s just the realm of Blood Refining!"

    "I want to see how much longer you can hold out!"

    Old Fifth Song roared with fury.

    He overworked his Qi-Blood, his long sword shing like a storm without giving any respite, aimed to force the opponent to expend arge amount of Qi-Blood and win by the umtion of his realm.

    This made the spectators very anxious.

    "Wang Li."

    Zhu Tong cursed, "If the situation doesn''t look right, the two of us will go up together and mess ''em up!"

    "Alright!" Wang Li nodded.

    Zhao Qiao and Wu Da also quietly grabbed bows and arrows, ready to ambush at a moment''s notice.

    Only Xu Bin felt increasingly familiar with what he saw.

    Yes, it was this feeling.

    "We don''t need to interfere; Chen Sansi has a ny percent chance of winning!"

    "How can you tell?"

    "Just watch."

    Indeed, another twenty exchanges passed.

    Old Fifth Song''s explosive power began to wane with time.

    In contrast, the young man''s condition didn''t seem different from the beginning. It was impossible to see how much longer he could hold on, but it was Old Fifth Song who began to show ws, giving his opponent the chance to counterattack.

    Several meters apart, the gale-like onrush of the Reed Leaf Spear was either a thrust to the face or a stab to the throat, each move deadly like a bloodthirsty venomous snake.

    "ng, ng, ng!"

    Old Fifth Song continually swung the sword to cut down the snakes, but one after another kepting, faster and more numerous. Eventually, they were everywhere and unstoppable.

    He had no choice but to dodge frantically, twisting his neck and head to evade, looking like a thrilling acrobatic performance.

    Cold sweat broke out from his body, and Old Fifth Song realized a frightening fact.

    If this dy continued, it wouldn''t be a matter of whether he could win or not, but whether he would die!

    Having achieved Great Sess in Blood Refining, his strength hadn''t diminished much, but he had been able tost for so long. How was this possible?!

    He could fight no longer!

    The rage in Old Fifth Song''s heart was gradually extinguished, and he regained hisposure.

    "ng¡ª"

    He exerted all his strength to chop away the spear tip, then leaped backwards consecutively to quickly distance himself.

    Chen Sansi leapt up from the saddle, like a tiger pouncing in mid-air, quickly closing the gap. He thrust out the Reed Leaf Spear in his hand, aiming directly at his opponent''s chest.

    This thrust was extraordinarily swift; Old Fifth Song couldn''t block in time, nor dared to. He dodged to the side, narrowly allowing the spear to graze past him. However, the spear de still opened a chasm on his chest, with fresh blood gushing out.

    "Bang!"

    Chen Sansi didn''t retract his spear. The Dragon Elephant blood in his body surged wildly. Holding the shaft like a club, with his body and horse''s momentumbined, he unleashed a Bear Gang Force and swept it across the opponent''s chest.

    Old Fifth Song was sent flying several meters backward and crashed onto the yellow muddy ground. Under the effect of inertia, he rolled several times before stopping, his face covered in fresh blood, and his fine clothes became utterly disheveled.

    "Stop... hold on!"

    He supported himself up with his sword: "I... I concede. I''ll no longer pursue the matter of killing my disciple. Let''s call it quits!"

    The crowd was stunned.

    A Blood Refining Warrior won against a Bone Training Warrior?!

    "Farewell!"

    Old Fifth Song, no longer caring about his appearance, dropped the words and fled.

    "Old Fifth!"

    The encircled disciples of the Martial Arts Hall shouted loudly.

    But clearly, their Old Fifth did not n to care for them.

    "Good, it''s just as well to stop here! A few dead disciples of the Martial Arts Hall shouldn''t be a big problem."

    Xu Bin and the others breathed a sigh of relief.

    But soon, they tensed up again.

    Because the youth seemed not ready to let go of this Old Fifth.

    Chen Sansi withdrew his spear, picked up the Kaiyuan Great Bow, then bent down to pull out an arrow from a corpse, and drew the bow without a moment''s hesitation.

    "Swoosh¡ª"

    Old Fifth Song, who had run nearly a hundred steps away, kept looking back to watch.

    When he saw the other party drawing the bow and nocking the arrow, he thought to use the sword to strike, but he was a moment too slow. The Wolf Teeth Arrow whistled in, piercing through flesh and lodging in his chest¡ªnot reaching the heart but shattering bones on impact.

    Mr. Song staggered to the ground, looking up at the young man chasing after him, his face contorted in a ferocious snarl, "You... you kill my disciples and that''s one thing, but do you really dare to kill me?!"

    "Why shouldn''t I!"

    Chen Sansi''s fierce shout echoed through the vige.

    The White Swan Horse responded to his call, and he once again mounted, pointing his reed-leaf long spear straight ahead. Gathering all his Qi-Blood Power, he focused it entirely upon the long spear, andbining it with the charging warhorse, he rapidly closed in on his enemy and thrust the spear downward.

    Mr. Song was unable to resist at all, his treasure sword shattered upon contact and dropped to the ground.

    The sharp and elongated gun de was unstoppable as it thunderously pierced into his body.

    "Ah¡ª"

    Mr. Songy on the ground screaming, using hisst strength to grasp the spear shaft desperately, preventing the gun tip from prating deeper into the wound.

    The White Swan Horse did not stop.

    The long spear, embedded in the opponent''s body, dragged across the ground.

    Mr. Song''s clothes were torn and his back a gory mess; the strength in his grip on the spear shaft weakened more and more. Blood bubbled from his mouth as he made a final effort to save his life, "My family pays tribute to the Lord Prefect every year, you... killing me is a death sentence..."

    "Puchi!"

    Chen Sansi couldn''t be bothered to respond. He twisted the spear shaft, causing the gun tip to churn within the opponent''s body, drilling through bones before mashing the heart like a drill.

    Mr. Song''s hands ckened, and he breathed hisst.

    In Yanbian Vige, an eerie silence prevailed!

    Chen Sansi raised the long spear high:

    "Brothers, rest assured, I killed Mr. Song. I will go to Lord Thousand Households myself to exin the situation; it has nothing to do with you all!"

    ¡ª¡ª

    Eight Treasures Restaurant.

    Private room.

    Fine wine and dishes filled the dining table, yet no one moved their chopsticks.

    Xiang Tingchun sat in the seat of honor. In front of him were the Masters of the Four Great Martial Arts Schools of Po Yang County.

    "My speech is over."

    His gaze swept over each of them, each word heavy, "Who agrees, and who opposes?"

    "Don''t even think about it!"

    Master Song Nanshan of Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy was the first to speak out.

    His hair and beard were white, his breath weak as if he had just recovered from a severe illness, but his words were firm, "Commander Xiang, you''re too aggressive. I see no need to continue this discussion!"

    He tried to rise, leaning on his walking stick.

    Luo Dongquan, guarding the door, shed his de.

    Master Song Nanshan demanded angrily, "What does this mean?!"

    "It''s obvious."

    Xiang Tingchun helped himself to a drink, speaking leisurely, "Today, whether you agree or not, you won''t leave through this door unless you do.

    "Master Song, you are the oldest and most experienced here. I hope you can set a good example."

    "I''ve made myself perfectly clear!"

    Master Song Nanshan snorted coldly, "Without seeing the thing, don''t even think about getting another copper coin from us!"

    "Well said!"

    The Master of Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy banged on the table, echoing, "Xiang Tingchun, I suspect you don''t have the Immortal Treasure at all and have been deceiving us all along!"

    "Master Liang, there''s no need to test me."

    Xiang Tingchun narrowed his eyes, "I''m telling you onest time, cooperate honestly, and after spring, the thing will be delivered to you with both hands!"

    Master Song Nanshan stood his ground, "What if we insist on seeing the thing first?"

    "Then I might just find something in your mansions."

    Xiang Tingchun spoke indifferently, "For example, armor, or crossbows, or perhaps arge number of long weapons."

    "Nonsense!"

    Master Song Nanshan''s anger aggravated his injuries, and he coughed violently. Pointing at his nose, he scolded, "Xiang Tingchun, don''t forget we''re grasshoppers on the same rope; making a big scene benefits no one!"

    Xiang Tingchun''s eyes darkened, "Threatening me?"

    Master Song Nanshan turned to the others, "Don''t be afraid of him; he''s just bluffing. I''ll personally clear things up with the officials about the weapons and armor. As for the Immortal Treasure, he wouldn''t dare make it public!"

    Xiang Tingchun''s right hand silently rested on the hilt of the knife hidden beneath him, but he did not draw it.

    The opponent was right.

    Just nting some armor and weapons was not quite enough.

    Even if they resorted to force, they couldn''t exterminate all the Four Great Martial Arts Schools; they had to pick a target to make an example of.

    The atmosphere tensed as if des were drawn. Outside, an argument could be heard.

    "Lord Thousand Households has given orders not to enter!"

    "Please ry a message as I have urgent news to report!"

    "..."

    Luo Dongquan went to check and soon returned, quietly reporting to themander, "A g leader hase looking for you, named Fang Ping, he says..."

    As Xiang Tingchun listened to the report, the murderous intent in his pupils surged, and his voice grew several times more forceful, finally having a suitable target.

    "Song Nanshan, you''ve got some nerve!"

    "Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy Disciplesmitting murder in broad daylight, seen by hundreds, and you still say you don''t have rebellious intentions?! Death awaits you!"

    Before Master Song Nanshan couldprehend the situation, his head was severed with a single sh.

    "Pass my order!"

    Xiang Tingchun was full of killing intent, "Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy has plotted rebellion; we must immediately dispatch troops to suppress them, leave none alive!"

    "Mad dog!"

    The remaining three Martial Arts Hall Masters were shocked and dismayed, "Xiang Tingchun, you mad dog!"

    "Indeed, I am a mad dog!"

    Xiang Tingchun''s eyes were bloodshot, "By tomorrow dusk, I want to see the military granaries replenished, otherwise, you all die with this mad dog!"

 Chapter 59 Fifteen Stone Big Bow

    Witnessing Mr. Wu being stabbed to death, the Martial Arts Academy Disciple was scared out of his wits, and his treasure sword ttered to the ground.

    Whether it was the vigers from Yanbian Vige or the soldiers from the garrison, they all unanimously turned their gaze toward the youth on horseback, their eyesplex with respect tinged with awe.

    "My lord need not worry,"

    Only Xu Wencai came over, stroking his beard and said, "We should just go straight back, and Lord Thousand Households will certainly not me you unduly. At most, you''ll be given a title for atonement and meritorious service."

    "You do see clearly."

    That''s what Chen Sansi had been thinking from the start.

    Not to mention the matter of military supplies.

    War was imminent; it was not possible to shake one''s own people''s morale on ount of outsiders.

    What he was truly worried about was that the disturbance wasn''t big enough to manage to kill the old man from the Song Family too.

    Fortunately, Chen Sansi was confident about achieving small achievement in bone training before spring came. No matter the oue of today''s events, he could face them calmly.

    He had nned to call everyone to return to camp first when he suddenly heard someone approaching rapidly on horseback.

    "Whoa¡ª"

    "Song Old Five, I want your damn life!!!"

    One could see Wang Zhi''s portly figure pressing down on a brown warhorse, holding a long and sharp Mo de in his hand, with over a hundred soldiers following him from afar, charging towards Yanbian Vige at breakneck speed.

    "Stone?"

    Upon seeing everyone, he pulled the reins to stop: "Are you alright, where''s Song Old Five!"

    "Dead."

    Chen Sansi calmly replied, "I would trouble Hundred Households Wang to take me to report the situation to Lord Thousand Households."

    "You did him in?"

    Wang Zhi didn''t believe it until he saw the corpse with a big hole in the chest, then he showed a gleam of delight: "Good, good, good, I was worrying over nothing for you!"

    He had been sent out a short while ago, in charge of figuring out a way to smuggle armour and weapons into the Martial Arts Hall.

    Once the task waspleted, he had been waiting in the county city.

    It was only after the incident in the Eight Treasures Restaurant that he learned about the situation in Yanbian Vige. Worried that Chen Sansi was no match, he hurried over immediately.

    ''Thisd is killing across a great boundary, truly a formidable being.''

    ''Great news!''

    Without saying much more, Hundred Households Wang raised the Mo de high and blurted out amand like a thunderp, reverberating in everyone''s ears: "Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy is plotting rebellion, execute them all to thest man!"

    After a brief hesitation, the soldiers began to carry out the orders,unching a one-sided massacre against the Martial Arts Academy Disciples.

    The vigers of Yanbian Vige were initially shocked but slowly realized that those dying were the same martial masters who had previously oppressed them, and they began to think it was all a dream.

    "I said they should be killed long ago!"

    Zhu Tong didn''t care where themand came from and swung his hammer into the air.

    "Plotting rebellion, extermination?"

    Chen Sansi hadn''t anticipated the sudden turn of events in front of him and only after inquiring did he learn what had happened.

    What a ruthless and decisive move by Xiang Tingchun.

    In pursuit of career advancement, he went mad with desperation, using such a method to force other Martial Arts Halls into submission, unafraid of mutual destruction.

    Of course, this undoubtedly saved him a lot of trouble.

    Chen Sansi, carrying his spear, quietly watched as blood flowed like rivers in Yanbian Vige.

    He knew that after today, no one in Po Yang County would dare to oppose Xiang Tingchun ever again.

    This was the true essence of using "power" to bully others!

    With sufficient personal strength and soldiers at hismand,

    With desperation, he feared no one and could overturn the table at any moment.

    ...

    Overnight, the nearly century-old Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy crumbled to dust.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    From the Song Family''s n members to the academy''s disciples, every single one was executed, and all their assets and money were confiscated.

    But rather than causing chaos in Po Yang County city, there was unprecedented peace and harmony.

    Especially in the military camp.

    For several days in a row, starting from 5 a.m., Martial Arts Academy Disciples lined up to donate military supplies, cart after cart, as much as needed, showing a proactive and generous spirit.

    Chen Sansi couldn''t help but shake his head repeatedly.

    The Martial Arts Hall and Xiang Tingchun had resumed cooperation, and it became rather difficult to expose the issues with Medicine Valley.

    Times had changed.

    Bringing it up now, Xiang Tingchun would likely cover for them, considering the Martial Arts Hall was still needed and couldn''t just bepletely eliminated.

    Fortunately, Chen Sansi''s goal was achieved¡ªTai Lei Martial Arts Academy was utterly ruined.

    As for the matters of Medicine Valley, he would look into it himself.

    He began a closed-door training, desperately striving to enhance his cultivation, hoping to enter the Bone Training Realm as soon as possible.

    Compared to "Basic Spear Technique for Soldiers," the number of Pile Work stances in "Undying Golden Snake Spear" was doubled, and the number of maneuvers was increased to forty-nine. There were many extremely tricky movements to master, making the training quite arduous.

    From entry-level to Great Sess, Bone Training corresponds to four phases.

    They are Training Muscle, Bone Strengthening, Skin Training, and Marrow Refining, respectively.

    Training Muscle, as the name implies,

    is to nourish the meridians with Qi-Blood. Moreover, it can also initially increase the hardness of the bones.

    That''s why the Blood Refining Realm is considered the most crucial foundation in Martial Arts.

    Only with a high enough quality of cultivated Qi-Blood can one nourish a robust physique. Otherwise, a single misstep could lead to a widening gap, eventually bing an insurmountable divide that blocks further progress.

    The blood of the Dragon Elephant, obviously, counts as a decent foundation.

    Executing the spear technique withplex Pile Work, and driven by the Breathing Skill, the Dragon Elephant Blood circted methodically within his body, constantly nourishing Chen Sansi''s meridians at every moment.

    In just a few days, he could feel his meridians bing tougher. Many previously difficult movements gradually became possible, and in turn, evolved into more intricate maneuvers.

    When tired from training,

    Chen Sansi would eat a red ginseng raw.

    Blood ginseng.

    It was given to him earlier by Xiang Tingchun.

    This substance could alleviate the pain of cultivation and enhance the quality of his Qi-Blood, benefiting him immensely.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear. Upper (Not Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 15/100]

    [Utility: Blood of the Dragon Elephant]

    Just like the Blood Refining Realm, the Bone Training Realm has four phases from entry-level to Great Sess, with the difficulty gradually increasing. Entry-level is the easiest, whereas achieving Perfection at Great Sess is the real challenge and bottleneck.

    Of course, the difficulty of reaching entry-level Bone Training is far greater than that of Blood Refining.

    Additionally, the cultivation technique is iplete.

    The Undying Golden Snake Spear is divided into upper and lower volumes, which can be cultivated all the way to Refining Internal Organs.

    But the technique for Refining Internal Organs isn''t avable in Po Yang County.

    Military officers at the Great Sess of Bone Training must report upwards for approval, whereby a designated person would teach the Refining Internal Organs Technique, which must not be disclosed. Otherwise, it is considered a heinous crime of treason.

    This is also a method by which the court maintains control over local areas.

    Local Jianghu forces are not allowed to have individuals whose cultivation surpasses that of the military''s leading figures.

    After training untilpletely exhausted, Chen Sansi stopped to rest.

    He took some silver and headed to the forging workshop.

    From his skirmish with Mr. Wu, it was clear that the Two-Stone Bow had difficulty achieving a lethal blow against a Bone Training Martial Artist who was on guard, and that was just during the Training Muscle Stage. If it were during the Bone Strengthening Stage or higher, its lethality would only diminish.

    Acquiring a heavier bow and arrows was imperative.

    "It''s been ready two days ago; I was wondering if you forgot about it and was about to look for you," said Niu Gai as he quickly brought out the item. "This bow, with a pulling force of fifteen stones, can prate solid rock."

    Chen Sansi took the new bow and inspected it in his hands.

    This bow was made from fifty-year-old mutated Purple Gold Bamboo for its body, top-quality Sangyu Wood for its limbs, the sturdy skull of a fierce tiger for its bow tips, and its bowstring was made from Exotic Beast Tendons worth hundreds of taels of silver. Holding it upright, it nearly reached the height of a person, looking rather intimidating from a distance.

    "I''ve also prepared matching arrows for you," said Niu Gai, bringing over an arrow bag filled with all kinds of brand-new arrows.

    Sleek, sharp Triangr Armor-piercing Arrows, t and wide shovel-shaped Qi Pi Arrows, metal-made whistle arrows, and hollow-centered arson iron arrows, among others...

    "Fire arrows?"

    Chen Sansi was intrigued and specifically took one out for examination.

    Arson iron arrow.

    The rest of it was no different from regr arrows. The unique feature was a hollow iron cage on the front of the arrowhead, which could be stuffed with oilcloth. Once lit, it would be shot out and typically used to attack enemy camps, burning down structures like grain reserves and campsites; its individual killing power wasn''t great.

    Chen Sansi took the tiger bone bow outside, notched a Triangr Arrow, and aimed at a rock over a hundred paces away. Slowly, he drew the heavy two-thousand-pound bowstring.

    The moment he let go, the rebounding force of the bowstring could easily slice through human flesh, and the Triangr Arrow turned into a shooting star as it thunderously flew toward its target. When it collided with the rock, it let out a loud "bang."

    The arrow effortlessly embedded itself into the hard stone.

    Cracks spread outward from the arrowhead, and within moments the rock¡ªover half a meter high¡ªshattered into pieces scattered across the ground.

    [Skill: Archery (small achievement)]

    [Progress: (150/1000)]

 Chapter 60 The Art of Commanding Soldiers

    ```

    This arrow shot significantly increased his proficiency.

    Chen Sansi was thoroughly satisfied.

    If he were to encounter an opponent like Old Song the Fifth again, there would be no need for a drawn-out battle, just one arrow would kill.

    It was indeed worth fifty taels of Silver.

    He took his leave and headed to the pharmacy to purchase medicine.

    As his realm improved, his need for supplemental medicine grew increasingly high.

    Each stage of martial arts practice corresponded to specific medicinal ingredients.

    Therefore, Blood Replenishing Soup was of no help for bone training, and the efficacy of Replenishing Essence Soup had greatly reduced. There was a specialized Bone Nourishing Soup avable for consumption, with the original price of each prescription being ny-eight taels¡ªtwice as much as Replenishing Essence Soup.

    Even when purchased in the military camp, it would cost fifty taels of Silver.

    There was also a more expensive medicine bath, costing a hundred taels of Silver for two baths.

    Chen Sansi originally thought that with over two hundred taels in savings, he could be considered wealthy, but now he realized he was still poor.

    These medicinal ingredients were so expensive partly because they truly were rare and often required decades of cultivation.

    On the other hand.

    Practicing martial arts was a way to transcend social ss.

    If the poor could easily turn their lives around, what would the lords do? With only so many resources avable for enjoyment in the world, how could they possibly give them up easily to those beneath them?

    It was not impossible for the poor to rise up, but they often had to pay a hundred or a thousand times the price.

    Being ackey in a martial arts hall or selling one''s life in the army, each step was fraught with hardships.

    "If you don''t have Silver, you can exchange for it with military exploits, but there''s some time before the battles begin; I can''t just sit around doing nothing."

    "I still need to find a way to make money."

    "Tigers and ck bears aren''t found everywhere in great numbers. Relying on quantity isn''t reliable. It would be best to capture an Exotic Beast."

    ording to "Records of the Mountains and Rivers," the Hutou Mountain Range originally had seventeen or eighteen kinds of Exotic Beasts, but now only two or three remain, with the White Deer being one, and another being an old monkey that mimics human weapon use, although it hasn''t been seen for over twenty years.

    But it was still an idea.

    Especially since Chen Sansi possessed "Tracking and Concealment," what others couldn''t find, he might be able to.

    In the end, although vast, the Hutou Mountain Range was still somewhat barren.

    Chen Sansi heard that in the areas around the Eight Camps in Liangzhou, there were boundless mountain ranges teeming with Exotic Beasts, and the number of ferocious beasts was countless.

    It seemed he had one more reason to head to the Eight Camps.

    Staying in a godforsaken ce like Po Yang, advancing in refining internal was the limit; there simply were no higher-level cultivation resources.

    "Wang Zhi told me that the Selection Officer would arrive before long."

    "I must hasten to improve my strength."

    Chen Sansi gritted his teeth and spent a huge sum of a hundred taels to order two servings of Bone Nourishing Soup.

    "My lord!"

    Just as he was preparing to go back for a meal, Wang Li found him: "Lord Chen, many folks from Po Yang County have gathered outside the military camp, moring to see you."

    "To see me?"

    Chen Sansi puzzled: "What''s the matter?"

    "Our Thousand Households is well-off and looking to recruit soldiers to fill vacancies. A lot of people havee, but they''re all insisting on seeing you."

    Wang Li exined: "They''re saying, in all their years, they''ve never seen an official who still cares about the life and death of the folks from his hometown, nor someone who would kill a martial arts hall''s beast in the street."

    "How many people havee?"

    "Over a hundred!"

    "So many?"

    Chen Sansi hurriedly followed him.

    At the entrance of the military camp, there was a recruitment desk that was now surrounded by an impassable crowd.

    Zhao Qiao, Wu Da, and Zhuang Yi were all among them.

    And it wasn''t just people from Yanbian Vige, it seemed that more came from the surrounding viges.

    "My lord, your fame has spread throughout Po Yang these past two days!"

    Xu Wencai was quite excited: "I haven''t even written anything yet, and so many havee. This is a great opportunity."

    "Silence!"

    Luo Dongquan, with a saber at his side, stood in front of the desk and shouted at the crowd: "I''ve said it, those who wish to join the army register one by one, the official here will make arrangements afterward!"

    "We want to enlist, but we''ll only follow Brother Shi!"

    Wu Da, at the forefront, had a loud voice: "Let us in to see him."

    "This matter isn''t for him to decide!"

    No matter what Luo Dongquan said, it was ineffective, as the cacophony nearly drowned him out.

    "Brother Chen!"

    Zhuang Yi, with keen eyesight, was the first to spot the neer.

    "Have you all thought this through?"

    After a brief exchange, Chen Sansi asked seriously: "War is imminent if you follow me, death is a possibility."

    "Brother, we''ll die even if there''s no war!"

    Zhuang Yi''s face was still bruised: "If it weren''t for you, we would have been beaten to death by the martial arts hall''s scum already."

    "Right."

    ```

    Zhao Qiao also said, "I''ve discussed it with my family, and with winter approaching, we simply can''t survive without joining the army, even though there''s only a meager soldier''s pay. Moreover, since we''vee here, we all certainly want to follow you."

    "I also want to learn martial arts!" Wu Da clenched his fist, "Someday, I''ll kill them all."

    "As long as you all have thought it through."

    Chen Sansi paused for a moment, "But I''m currently only a g leader and can only take in about forty people under mymand. First, have everyone line up to register; what a mess we look like, all in disarray."

    As soon as he said this,

    even as Luo Dongquan had been yelling to no avail, the vigers really stopped their mor and quietly queued up.

    Seeing this,

    Luo Dongquan frowned.

    Not only that,

    but once the spots were filled, themotion started up again.

    "Make it clear; we''re only following Chen Zongqi from Yanbian Vige!"

    "What nonsense!"

    Luo Dongquan said angrily, "He''s just a g leader, who can have at most fifty men under hismand."

    "So what if there are a few more?"

    "Exactly, exactly."

    "If it reallyes down to it, why don''t you just promote him?"

    "Is an officer position something you can just bump up on a whim?"

    Luo Dongquan looked at them with contempt, "The army has its own rules. You country folks should stop making a scene here."

    "Go to hell!"

    A hot-tempered viger cursed, "Disdain for us country people, huh? If you''re so capable, then why post notices everywhere, begging us to join the army?"

    "What rank are you even? Are you jealous because we''re enlisting with Chen Zongqi instead of you?"

    "Just get out of here!"

    "..."

    "Damn it!"

    Luo Dongquan, seething with rage, drew his de, raising his voice several times higher, "If you want to join the army, follow the rules, or else get the hell out of here!"

    "What the hell are you doing?!"

    Seeing the murderous knife, the vigers finally felt frightened, retreating en masse and daring not make another sound.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "We knew it... you dog officials don''t see us as humans!"

    "Right, promises of soldier''s pay must also be a lie; it''smon knowledge that military camps are in arrears."

    Explore more stories at empire

    "Let''s go, let''s go!"

    They really had no intention of continuing to register and stamped their marks, and they turned to leave.

    Chen Sansi nced at Luo Dongquan.

    Helpless.

    After all, he was indeed just a mere g leader.

    He had no obsession with how many men he led.

    But with this kind of attitude, it would probably be difficult for the Thousand Households office to reach full strength.

    "Fellow vigers, wait a moment!"

    Xiang Tingchun suddenly appeared, blocking the way of the dispersing crowd.

    His face wore a gentle smile that somewhat shed with his temperament, "I assure you, not only will the soldier''s pay not be dyed, it will also increase!"

    No one answered.

    It seemed very few believed him.

    After all, the reputation of the Po Yang Thousand Households had been rotten for hundreds of years.

    Xiang Tingchun spoke again, "I can also promise that all of you will be under Chen Zongqi''smand. How about that?"

    Upon hearing this sentence,

    the people who were about to leave paused.

    "Lord Thousand Households?"

    Luo Dongquan protested, "One g leader, how can he manage more than a hundred men? That doesn''t conform to the rules, does it?"

    "Rules can be changed. In times of need, who says we must stick to rigid standards?"

    Xiang Tingchun beckoned, "Chen Zongqi, I leave this matter entirely in your hands."

    "Understood."

    Chen Sansi bowed with cupped hands.

    On the side, he oversaw the vigers as they pressed their handprints one by one.

    Once everyone was registered, he gathered them all at the Martial Arts Arena, organized them into lines, and checked their names against the list.

    It was then that a familiar sensation stirred within him.

    A panel appeared before his eyes.

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (Untrained)]

    [Progress: 0/100]

    [Utility: None]

 Chapter 61 The Emperors Appointment

    ```

    Commanding soldiers?

    Chen Sansi wasn''t too surprised.

    Even riding a horse would have a proficiency level, so it wasn''t strange thatmanding soldiers had one as well.

    Perhaps previously, because he was just a small g with too few people under him, he hadn''t met the activation conditions for this skill.

    It seemed that in the days toe, there would be one more thing to be busy with.

    Archery, horse control, martial arts, reading,manding soldiers¡­

    It''s a bit overwhelming.

    But having many skills does not burden one.

    Since he had chosen to join the army, he naturally had to learn to lead troops in battle and not just be a dead soldier who charged into enemy lines.

    Chen Sansi finished counting the number of people in the Martial Arts Arena.

    A total of one hundred and fifteen.

    That was a few more than the full quota managed by Households.

    And most of them were young.

    Like Wu Da, who was only sixteen.

    There were also middle-aged men like Zhao Qiao, but not many.

    Chen Sansi had a photographic memory, firmly imprinting each face and corresponding name in his mind.

    He sped his fists and said, "Thanks to everyone''s kind support, willing to follow me; from now on, we are brothers. You can get to know each other first, and then go home and get ready. Starting tomorrow, I''ll personally teach you martial arts."

    ¡­

    Central Army Camp.

    "Sir, this shouldn''t be allowed."

    Luo Dongquan watched the scene at the Martial Arts Arena from a distance: "These people came for that kid, and now they''re all under hismand. Isn''t this the equivalent of setting up an independent power base within the Households?"

    "Old Luo, do you think I''m being too indulgent with Chen Sansi?"

    Xiang Tingchun poured tea for himself from a purple sand tea pot, his voice devoid of any agitation: "Think about it, why am I doing this?"

    "You value talent," Luo Dongquan had to concede: "This boy indeed has exceptional natural talent, and his future is boundless."

    "Value talent? Haha."

    Xiang Tingchun couldn''t help butugh: "What use is my valuing talent, whene spring, he flies up to the branch and bes a phoenix, what ties will he still have to me?"

    Luo Dongquan bowed his head: "Please enlighten me, sir!"

    "You just mentioned being worried about him having his own hilltop?"

    Xiang Tingchun looked at the vigers on the Martial Arts Arena, who couldn''t even line up properly: "Do you think after a few months, how many of them will still be standing here?"

    "I understand," Luo Dongquan said with realization: "Sir is winning people''s hearts.

    "This way, they will willingly go to their deaths.

    "Even if that kid is eligible for Selected Point, ording to the Governor Mansion''s way of doing things, they won''t let him leave before the battle. So, he might very well die on the battlefield too."

    Xiang Tingchun said sternly: "d you understand.

    "So there is no need for you to continue holding a grudge against him over the Selected Point matter.

    "If he is still alive after next year''s campaign, and you have the guts, I won''t interfere with whatever you want to do.

    "But right now, there are a lot of situations we need to deal with."

    Xiang Tingchun said in a grave tone: "I''ve received news that the new-appointed Magistrate is rmended by Elder Yan, handpicked by the Emperor."

    "Handpicked?"

    Luo Dongquan understood the implication.

    A mere seventh-rank Magistrate doesn''t need to be handpicked unless something big is about to happen in the ce he''s appointed.

    Xiang Tingchun scoffed: "And apanying the Magistrate is the Magistrate of therger region."

    "For the sake of the Song Family?"

    Luo Dongquan asked: "Could this cause trouble?"

    "We all serve the Crown Prince; what can he do to me? At most, he can just throw a fit," Xiang Tingchun said with a resigned sigh: "The Emperor, the Crown Prince, the Governor Mansion, the powers of three sides meet here in our small Po Yang County, even I don''t know what will happen next. Old Luo, you will have to offer me more support."

    "Rest assured, sir, I am at yourmand at all times."

    ```

    ```

    On the ancient road the western wind sweeps past, and stallions gallop as the sunset casts a red glow and the day''s light fades.

    Upon the seemingly endless official road, two red-maned stallions race¡ªone before the other. Leading is a young woman, followed closely by a fair-faced young man, both around eighteen or neen.

    d in a tight-fitting red dress, the woman''s delicate hands pull on the reins, her slender waist sashaying with a saber slung at her side. Her natural beauty is framed by a halo of clouds, her wlessplexion speaks thenguage of flowers, and although her hair is styled elegantly, an air of valor emanates from her.

    "Sister."

    The young man trailing behind, equally handsome, carries a long spear and a bow and arrow on his back. He yawns and says, "Why do we meddle in the affairs of Selected Point? For a mere Po Yang County town, is it worth it for us to traverse mountains and rivers?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "As closed-door disciples, should we not be prudent?"

    The woman spoke with an earnest tone, her voice cool and serene, "Moreover, we have other tasks at hand."

    "Military deployment?"

    The young man sighed, "This affair clearly smells of the Crown Prince''s doing, and it''s unstoppable¡ª"

    "Father had clearly promised that after the barbarian conflicts ended, he would return to his fields. Yet they still refuse to wait.

    "Over the years, they''ve been nting their own generals everywhere, even sent a supervisor to Liangzhou, and have stuffed many of their people into the Eight Camps.

    "What''s most detestable is the eldest apprentice brother..."

    "Sister, for their Cao Family''s empire, how many of our Sun family have died over the years? Big brother, second brother, and..."

    "It''s not just for Selected Point."

    Sun Li''s eyes gleamed with profound depth, "There are other matters we need to investigate."

    "Investigate what? Why didn''t father tell me?"

    "Would it be of any use if he told you?"

    "..."

    Sun Li noticed the sudden quiet behind her, and slowed down her pace to look back.

    The young man had, at some unknown moment, reined in his horse and silently raised a three-stone heavy bow, aiming towards a por grove nking the official road.

    On a patch of open ground about seventy paces away, a hare was nibbling at the grass.

    He pulled the bowstring taut as a full moon, his gaze determined and his posture perfect. After aiming carefully and finding the right moment, he suddenly released his fingers.

    The arrow whistled through the air with imposing force!

    A loud "thwack" rang out as the arrow skewed off course, striking the trunk of a por tree half a meter away from the hare.

    The hare nced at the arrow shaft, then at him, and continued to graze.

    "?"

    Enraged, the young man drew another arrow and let it fly.

    This time, the arrow simply vanished without a trace, nowhere to be seen, a grievous miss.

    "This is too much!"

    The young man stowed his bow, took up his spear, and spurred his horse into a gallop, charging straight into the por grove.

    Only then did the rabbit realize the danger. It tried to flee but it was toote.

    "Hiss¡ª"

    With a spear thrust, the young man pierced the rabbit, lifting its body high with satisfaction: "Got it!"

    "Sun Buqi!"

    The woman in red closed her eyes, biting down on her silver teeth, "If you truly don''t wish to go, then go back to Liangzhou by yourself." Your adventure continues at empire

    "Sister, don''t be mad. I just couldn''t resist hunting when the opportunity arose. I''m ready to leave now."

    Sun Buqi, with a yful smile, carefully stowed the rabbit and returned to the official road.

    "You spend all day hunting and shooting birds, what a sight."

    Sun Li chided him as if she were frustrated with his refusal to meet her expectations, "With the way you act, what will be of the Eight Camps in the future?"

    "Sister, I never once imagined taking over the Eight Great Camps!"

    Sun Buqi hastily responded, "Wouldn''t it be lovely to go back to our old home and wait for father toy down his arms and return to farming? Are you truly prepared to continue serving the Old Emperor?"

    Sun Li fell silent, her heart burdened with worry.

    Retire from military service and return to civilian life?

    Anyone could do so, except for their family.

    Without someone continuing to wield military power in the army, did they truly believe the Old Emperor would let the Sun familynd safely?

    Such naivety...

    The siblings continued their journey.

    Finally, before nightfall, they could vaguely see a small city emerging at the end of their line of sight.

    Po Yang County town, they had arrived.

    ```

 Chapter 62 Guard

    Courtyard.

    Chen Sansi took advantage of the medicine''s effects to practice his spear technique.

    The utility of the Bone Nourishing Soup, in conjunction with the regtion of the Breathing Skill and Qi-Blood, conditioned his muscles and bones, producing a tingling sensation that made the pain inflicted on his body less intense.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear - Upper (Not Entered)]

    [Progress: 65/100]

    [Utility: Blood of Dragon and Elephant]

    "In a few more days, I''ll be able to train my muscles."

    "After muscle training, I''ll visit Medicine Valley."

    Recently, the number of live disappearances has greatly diminished, presumably, the Martial Arts Halls have restrained themselves, but notpletely ceased.

    Chen Sansi had also tried other uses ofmp oil.

    For example, feeding a tiny amount to a rat.

    Then the rat died...

    Clearly, this stuff was not for eating.

    It was most likely for starting fires.

    "Huh¡ª"

    Chen Sansi wiped off his sweat and sat down at the stone table under the courtyard''s plum tree, flipping through a few military books.

    In the past two days, he had summarized two methods to improve his proficiency inmanding troops.

    One, read military books and learn theoretical knowledge.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Two, practice, preferably practice military formations.

    Actualbat would definitely improve proficiency, but there was no opportunity at the moment.

    "Leading troops into battle is indeed a technical job, not just about taking a group of people to fight and that''s it," he thought.

    Chen Sansi benefited greatly.

    Before deploying troops, nning must begin half a year or even longer in advance.

    Decide how many men and weapons are needed, how much food and forage, how to transport them, and the estimates of losses.

    If it''s a campaign, one also has to consider the weather and climate, the difficulty of the journey, whether soldiers will be limated or face ambushes, and if so, where it''s most likely to ur...

    When dealing with arge number of troops, even relieving oneself requires special arrangement, not simply a matter of pulling down one''s pants.

    War is an extremelyplicated affair, not something one person can takeplete charge of; it requires the collective operation of an organization.

    This demonstrates the importance of having capable people as subordinates.

    Also, military formations.

    ording to the military books, special formations can enhance thebat power of soldiers to some extent.

    For instance, killing a martial artist who has achieved Great Sess in Blood Refining with a lower-grade technique usually costs about twenty lives. Under a special formation, the number can be reduced to fifteen.

    It doesn''t seem like that much on paper.

    But each digit represents a living person''s life.

    Small numbers add up, and a lot of manpower can be saved after a battle.

    However, since they are called special formations, naturally, not everyone can learn them.

    Firstly, themander himself must understand it.

    Military books have illustrations of formations, many based on the principles of Eight Diagrams, which ordinary people cannot fathom and require time for in-depth study.

    Secondly.

    Even if one understands it, they must be able to use it.

    Practice is practice,bat isbat.

    No matter how ingenious the formation, if it breaks after a single charge or falls into disarray once attacked, it is as good as useless.

    Therefore, remote garrisons usually train in the most basic fundamental formations.

    Only elite troops will apply special formations in actualbat. Experience more tales on empire

    The top armies will even have formationsposed of martial soldiers.

    "Formations are still a long way off."

    Chen Sansi had just finished teaching them Pile Work; he hadn''t even distinguished between military soldiers and array soldiers, but fortunately, teaching martial arts skills also counted towards progress.

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (Not Entered)]

    [Progress: 48/100]

    [Utility: None at the moment]

    He should be able to enter the initial stage before the new soldiers'' assessment ends.

    "Chen Zongqi, assemble!"

    The voice of Fang Zongqi came from outside the door.

    "What''s this about?"

    Chen Sansi opened the door; it was still the noon rest time.

    Fang Zongqi exined, "Lord Prefect and the new County Magistrate havee together to inspect our Households garrisoned soldiers."

    "Which prefect, An Ding Prefect?"

    Chen Sansi inquired.

    After receiving a positive response, he couldn''t help but think back to the threats made by Old Five Song before his death.

    He wasn''t nervous, deciding to wait and see how things unfolded.

    Following Fang Zongqi to the Martial Arts Arena, most of the soldiers had already lined up, waiting for the inspection by their superiors.

    Theoretically, the civil and military officials of the Great Sheng Dynasty were independent from one another, each with their own system of checks and bnces; there was no hierarchy, and county magistrates did not have the right to inspect the troops.

    Unless, of course, he was representing the faction of the Crown Prince, who supported this military expedition.

    The crowd didn''t have to wait long, roughly ten minutester.

    Xiang Tingchun arrived with two civil servants, surrounded by numerous martial artists.

    The man walking in front was dressed in a noble scarlet robe, embroidered with geese in the clouds on the front, signifying his status as a Fourth Rank Prefect.

    The other was wearing a blue robe, embroidered with the motif of cormorants, indicating his position as a Seventh Rank County Magistrate.

    They did not give any speeches, simply chatting among themselves as they passed through the ranks and entered the Central Army Camp.

    Chen Sansi noted the details.

    The County Magistrate showed no sign of ingratiating himself with the Prefect, his superior; on the contrary, he even seemed somewhat arrogant.

    Chen guessed the fellow must have quite the backing.

    The County Magistrate didn''t stay long, leaving after just a cup of tea''s time, while the Prefect did not appear for quite a while.

    Just as expected.

    "Chen Zongqi, the Lord Prefect wants to see you," said Households Commander Liu,ing over with the message and reminding in a low voice, "This man has the Song family backing him. They don''t dare to touch Lord Thousand Households, but since they found out you''re involved, they will likely look for trouble with you. Be very careful."

    "Thank you for the warning, Households Commander Liu."

    Chen Sansi''s brows furrowed slightly, but he was not afraid and headed straight for the camp.

    The charge of treason had already been decided; regardless, they had no overt reason to act against him.

    Hiding was not a solution; meeting face to face could rify the other party''s intentions, allowing him to find ways to cope.

    He lifted the tent p.

    The atmosphere inside was not as tense as he had imagined; the spacious area contained only two people.

    The Prefect in the scarlet robe sat in the principal seat, with a middle-aged bodyguard standing behind him.

    With a smile, the Prefect began, "You must be g Leader Chen Sansi?"

    "I am," Chen Sansi replied, saluting with his hands. "Lord Prefect, for what do you summon me?"

    "I am a person who speaks his mind openly", the Prefect said straightforwardly. "g Leader Chen, your martial arts talent is extraordinary, and being confined to Po Yang County does you a disservice.

    "Why not leave this ce and be a bodyguard in my mansion? I will provide you with ample resources for cultivation, ensuring your transition to Hua Jin is worry-free. What do you say?"

    A bodyguard?

    Chen Sansi was initially taken aback, then quickly understood.

    The offer seemed like a recruitment.

    In reality, it was a cunning form of eradication!

    With the annihtion of the Song family, the Prefect, as a backer, if he did nothing, how could he expect various martial arts halls to routinely pay tribute?

    But the act wasmitted by Xiang Tingchun, and he couldn''t afford to offend the Thousand Households, so he could only target Chen Sansi, a minor g leader.

    With the Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy''s treason established, they couldn''t publicly charge him with a crime.

    Considering that the Prefect genuinely appreciated talent, he wanted to recruit Chen to his side and have him disappear from Po Yang County, which would also serve as a form of appeasement to the Martial Arts Hall.

    But...

    Chen Sansi had not easily reached his current position, on the verge of joining the Selected Point in the Eight Camps; would he now go and serve as a dog to a mere Prefect?!

    He could even guess what the Prefect would say next.

    As expected.

    The Lord Prefect said with a feigned smile, "Chen Zongqi, I mean well for you. With the start of the war campaigns this spring, your cultivation is still shallow, and on the battlefield, swords and arrows are unforgiving. If by some misfortune, what a waste of talent it would be?"

    The implication was clear.

    Either ept to be a dog, or die in an ''ident''.

    Killing intent surged in Chen Sansi''s heart.

    From Qin Xiong onward, a series of troubling events had followed one another.

    He did not delight in violence.

    s, each time he did not strike first, others would.

    ''I just want to practice martial arts in peace.''

    ''Why must everyone force my hand!''

    He disliked the bullying from Xiang Tingchun.

    What Prefect could withstand a bow of fifteen stones?

    Chen Sansi resolved to deflect the matter for the time being.

    Just then.

    A cold, clear female voice rang out.

    "Magistrate Ji, Chen Zongqi is a Selected Officer officially under our Governor Mansion. Snatching him away like this, isn''t that improper?"

 Chapter 63 Dont Go Out at Night

    A woman in red boldly stepped into the military camp.

    "Please forgive this officer''s poor sight."

    Magistrate Ji could not help but size up the other party, puzzlingly asking, "Miss, who might you be?"

    "This humble girl''s surname is Sun, first name Li."

    The woman unhooked a copper te from her waist and held it high: "By the orders of Governor Mansion, I havee to Po Yang for the Selection Officer role."

    "Sun Li?"

    Hearing this name, Magistrate Ji suddenly awoke, standing up with a sped fist, "Hehe, who would have thought, the daughter of Lord Governor himself gracing us with her presence, this officer has been remiss, remiss!"

    Miss Sun?

    Chen Sansi couldn''t help but take another look at the woman.

    Did Lord Governor really send his own daughter to Po Yang?

    For the Selection Officer role?

    Not just that.

    She definitely had other matters to attend to.

    However, it seemed that for now, someone was speaking on his behalf, so he could save himself a lot of effort.

    "Miss Sun, please do not misunderstand."

    Magistrate Ji''s tone was much kinder, "This officer also appreciates talent and merely wished to give Chen Zongqi another option."

    "Appreciates talent?"

    Sun Li bluntly stated, "Howe I can''t hear any kindness in Lord Prefect''s words, but instead, I can sense quite a bit of a threatening tone?"

    Magistrate Ji defended, "This officer has no such intentions, Miss Sun must not speak recklessly."

    Discover hidden stories at empire

    "Just joking, don''t take it seriously, Lord Prefect."

    Sun Li whispered to the young man beside her, "Chen Zongqi, I have something to ask you, may I have a moment?"

    Ji Guangxian watched the two leave, then sat back down in his chair.

    Right after, Xiang Tingchun walked in.

    "Magistrate Ji."

    Xiang Tingchun showed displeasure, "Are you aiming for my man?"

    "do you have any idea how much trouble your shing has caused me?"

    Ji Guangxian angrily said, "The twelve counties of An Ding Prefecture, dozens of Martial Arts Halls, their spittle nearly drowned this officer, and someone even pulled strings to send a petition to the Cab, what would you have me do?"

    "Calm yourselves, Magistrate Ji."

    Xiang Tingchun shrugged indifferently, "I was also considering the greater ns for the spring, how could I dispatch troops without silver?"

    "Greater ns? You, a meremander, dare to speak of greater ns, what a joke!"

    Ji Guangxian snorted coldly, "You''re lucky, if it weren''t for Crown Prince personally selecting officers above the Refining Internal level, your head would''ve already fallen!"

    "Crown Prince?"

    Xiang Tingchun''s pupil shivered, "Magistrate Ji, the Crown Prince has heard of me?!"

    "Do you deserve it?"

    Ji Guangxian sarcastically said without sparing any feelings, "It''s only because Mr. Gao from the Ministry respects you to some degree, if you truly make some achievements, he would naturally rmend you for further cultivation. This officer''s visit to Po Yang is also on the task assigned by Mr. Gao."

    Feeling humiliated, Xiang Tingchun, with a calm voice, asked, "What task?"

    "Investigate."

    Ji Guangxian said, "Is there a follower of the Witch God Sect hidden here in Po Yang, holding something in their possession? Are you aware? This matter is of great importance; even the Emperor has decreed that the magistrate specially investigates this, do not hide anything."

    Xiang Tingchun carefully omitted and half-truthfully exined the matters concerning the Witch God Sect.

    "Continue investigating."

    Ji Guangxian sternly said, "The merit for this case is no smaller than annihting a barbarian tribe, understood?"

    "This officer will thoroughly investigate, no need for the Lord Prefect to worry," Xiang Tingchun calmly replied.

    "Alright, now that official matters are concluded, let us discuss some private matters."

    Ji Guangxian, still furious, pointed at his nose and said, "You need to give me an exnation for the matters concerning the Sun Family, can I stillmand respect in An Ding Prefecture if Chen Sansi doesn''t disappear from Po Yang?"

    "Impossible, I need him."

    Xiang Tingchun scoffed coldly, "Moreover, you shouldn''t be saying this to me, but to Miss Sun."

    "No one can stop me!"

    Ji Guangxian firmly stated, "The more talented the boy is, the less he should be left to the Governor, the better it would be if he could be of use to me!"

    "You also deserve?"

    Seizing the opportunity to counterattack, Xiang Tingchun scoffed, "He''s been pursuing Martial Arts for two months and is already approaching Bone Training, do you think he would regard you as a prefect?

    "Besides, I may not bother if you want to make things difficult for him, but as a fellow official, it''s necessary for me to give you a heads up.

    "This young man''s character is kind when described as kind, but discussing his ruthless and brutal actions, he even surpasses me.

    "You can''t convict him, yet you intimidate others. Think about the oue of Old Fifth Song.

    "Oh yes, he just ordered a fifteen-stone heavy bow from the Forge, tsk tsk...

    "Lord Prefect, you should venture out less at night these days.

    "If some mishap urs, there''s a high chance not even a corpse will be found. I would want to avenge you, but there wouldn''t be any evidence!"

    "He wouldn''t dare!"

    Ji Guangxian was quite confident, "If that happens, it would be a good reason to execute him!"

    Xiang Tingchun said no more, gave him a look as if viewing a corpse, shook his head, and then turned to leave.

    ...

    Outside the military camps, among the fields.

    A man and a woman, one in red and one in blue, walked side by side.

    Sun Li habitually ced one hand on the hilt of her sword, "ording to the records of the Governor Mansion, you started Martial Arts after the autumn harvest, now two months have passed, what stage have you reached?"

    Although she was a woman and not old, her tone carried an authoritarian sense characteristic of a senior.

    "Replying to the Selected Officer,"

    Chen Sansi answered truthfully, "I am currently undergoing Bone Training."

    "Bone Training?"

    Sun Li''s eyes initially shed with surprise, then suddenly she remembered something, "Who rushed you into Bone Training? Didn''t anyone tell you, practicing an inferior Breathing Skill then undergoing Bone Training will fix your Qi-Blood quality, locking your future potential?"

    Normally,

    after a Selected Officer enters the Eight Camps, they receive a new Breathing Skill based on their qualification.

    They start to practice a medium or superior Breathing Skill to rece the previous inferior one.

    But after Bone Training, the quality of the Qi-Blood is locked, and it can no longer be changed.

    ording to the rules, the person responsible for teaching Selected Officers should make this clear.

    "Hmm?"

    Chen Sansi was startled, thinking something was amiss, he exined, "Selected Officer is overthinking it, the breathing technique I practiced is the ''Vast Righteousness Breathing Skill''."

    "Vast Righteousness Breathing Skill?"

    Sun Li reacted with surprise and suspicion, "Who taught you that?"

    This Breathing Skill indeed was a superior one.

    But it was also one of the hardest to learn, taught by the Eight Camps selectively only to those whose qualifications were truly high.

    "Wang Zhi, Hundred Households Wang."

    Chen Sansi stated, "The Selected Officer might know of him."

    "Wang Zhi?"

    Sun Li inquired further, "I don''t know this person. What does he look like, and where did he get the Vast Righteousness Breathing Skill?"

    Chen Sansi briefly described his physical characteristics.

    ''Could it be him?''

    A subtle murderous intent shed through Sun Li''s eyes, "Where is he? Take me to him."

    Chen Sansi answered, "He went to Prefecture City to visit rtives."

    A few days ago, Wang Zhi had ridden away on a fast horse and had not been seen since.

    At that time, he felt it seemed less like visiting rtives and more like fleeing.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    From Miss Sun''s attitude, it seemed like he guessed correctly.

    Had Wang Zhi embezzled too much, or was there another crime?

    If his offenses were too great, even he might not be able to help.

    "Never mind, we''ll discuss it when he returns."

    Sun Li took a deep breath, "Let''s go."

    Chen Sansi was confused, "Go where?"

    "To your house."

    Sun Li smiled, "I''m tired, I''d like to visit Chen Zongqi''s home for some tea. Would that be unwee?"

    "Of course, you''re wee. Follow me."

    Chen Sansi led the way, pondering the other party''s intentions.

    What was this, a home visit?

    The Governor Mansion was indeed rigorous in selecting personnel, needing to understand every aspect of a candidate''s background.

 Chapter 64 Commanding Soldiers Entry-Level

    Along the way, Sun Li kept inquiring about his origin.

    Chen Sansi responded to each question.

    "You sure haven''t had it easy."

    Sun Li''s voice was like ice spring water, "If you achieve something one day, I hope you won''t forget your original intention."

    "I wouldn''t dare forget it for a moment."

    Chen Sansi sincerely said.

    "We''re here."

    He knocked on the door.

    A charming young woman with a face like a lotus appeared before them.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    It was naturally Sister Lan.

    "Brother Shi?"

    Gu Xin noticed the woman beside her, "This must be a guest, pleasee in quickly."

    She busied both inside and outside, brewing tea and pouring water, and even asked a neighbor to help buy some pastries from town. Throughout, she did not chatter at all about who the woman was.

    "Chen Zongqi indeed has a beautiful and virtuous wife."

    While sipping green tea, Sun Li changed the subject, "Beforeing here, I heard that Po Yang County has been restlesstely, first with the Witch God Sect causing trouble and then with people disappearing. What do you know about this?"

    Witch God Sect.

    Chen Sansi understood.

    It seemed that the Supervisor had sent his own daughter here, and it involved the Immortal Treasure.

    "Reporting to the Selection Officer, recently there have been patrols in the city, but nothing has been found."

    In at most two or three days, after he broke through to the Bone Forger Realm, he nned to investigate and understand the situation in Medicine Valley.

    "No need for formal titles like Selection Officer."

    Sun Li was strict, but her temperament was fairly straightforward, "Your qualification and cultivation have no issues. Wait until next spring to return with me to Liangzhou, at the very least you can stay in the Governor Mansion as an Inner Sect Disciple. We are all one family here anyway, you can just call me Senior Sister."

    "So little junior brother, Senior Sister has nowhere else to go and ns to stay here for now, you won''t drive me away, will you?"

    Little junior brother.

    Having been addressed as such, it seemed he had effectively passed the initial assessment.

    Chen Sansi had no reason to refuse, and he called for Gu Xin to prepare a guest room.

    After all, she was the precious daughter of Lord Governor.

    With her remarkable cultivation, a sparring instructor who had fallen into hisp was not to be wasted.

    During dinner, Chen Sansi ate most of a bear heart and drank a bowl of Bone Nourishing Soup.

    While his qi-blood surged through his body, he took his long spear to the courtyard and saluted by clenched fists, "Senior Sister Sun, please enlighten me!"

    "You really know how to get the better end of a deal, fine, Senior Sister won''t just eat and drink for free," Sun Li said lightly. "I am at the Perfection of Bone Training, so make your move."

    Bone Training Perfection.

    Which was close to Refining Internal.

    Senior Sister Sun, judging from her appearance, was barely eighteen or neen years old. To reach this realm within three to five years of training was absolutely outstanding.

    A rare opportunity!

    Chen Sansi''s breathing pattern gradually became moreplex, the dragon elephant blood within him began to boil, and he gathered strength in his arms. In the moonlight, his reed leaf long spear shimmered with a cold light, resembling a poised venomous snake.

    "Juste at me."

    d in red, Sun Li stood under a plum tree in the courtyard, her ponytail whipping in the night wind, and her rider''s long skirt billowing.

    Her eyes closed, one hand on the hilt at her waist, she did not unsheathe her sword until the sound of the spear cutting through the air was merely a step away from her, and then she fiercely drew her sword and struck down!

    "ng¡ª"

    The collision of sword and spear echoed like thunder, startling even the White Swan Horse sleeping in the corner of the yard.

    Under the overwhelming force, Chen Sansi was forced back several steps, his reed leaf long spear trembling continuously, and his hand slightly numb, regaining stability only after circting his qi-blood.

    After all, he was a Blood Refining Warrior.

    And the person standing opposite was about to refine her internal organs, with strength second only to Xiang Tingchun.

    The gap was normal.

    "Again!"

    Chen Sansi thrust his spear repeatedly towards her.

    Each time, his long spear was urately parried, sending back tremendous forces. After several exchanges, his arms and shoulders ached tremendously, and several times he almost couldn''t hold the spear.

    But through this process, his spear technique proficiency rapidly increased.

    "Undying Golden Snake?"

    Sun Li recognized the spear technique, "Not bad, little junior brother, well practiced as the Undying Golden Snake, and yet neither speed nor strength has fallen behind, huh?"

    "ng, ng, ng, ng, ng¡ª"

    The young man didn''t speak nor did he stop, focusing on training the spear technique,pletely treating her as a live Training Post.

    "..."

    Sun Li, feeling helpless, could only continue to swing her de, coping with the increasingly faster long spear.

    Her de, designed in the style of a He Miao de, had a slender blood-red streak in the middle of the de. As she swung it, the de''s light flickered like a fiery red lotus blossoming in the air.

    Under the moonlit night, a silver snake, a lotus flower.

    A refreshing and thorough practice sessionsting until deep into the night.

    "Aren''t you tired?"

    Sun Li started to regret agreeing to the sparring practice.

    It had already been two hours.

    How could a Blood Refining Great Sess martial artist have such stamina?

    "I can still train a bit more."

    Chen Sansi''s movements remained sharp as ever.

    Another hour passed before he finally stopped.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear. Upper (Uninitiated)]

    [Progress: 88/100]

    [Utility: Blood of the Dragon Elephant]

    He was getting closer.

    "Thank you for your hard work, Senior Sister Sun!"

    Chen Sansi had eaten a bit too much bear heart that evening, still feeling somewhat unsatisfied, but seeing that Senior Sister Sun seemed to want some rest, he did not continue, and went back to his room to rest.

    "Whew!"

    Sun Li was far from being exhausted in terms of Qi-Blood, after all, the gap in their levels was toorge.

    It was just that she had been traveling all night in recent days and was very tired.

    Sheathing her de, Sun Li went to the guest room,y down on the bed, and pondered over the current situation in Po Yang County.

    "Father was right, the Emperor really did send someone as well."

    "There''s news from the court, the Emperor recently had a secret meeting with the barbarian envoys."

    "Meeting envoys at this critical moment isn''t strange, but doing it stealthily certainly indicates something fishy.

    "Is it rted to the Witch God Sect?"

    "I wonder how Sun Buqi''s investigation is going."

    "Well, let''s take it slow, we are meant to be here until the spring anyway."

    After several days of travel, she was worn out and weary.

    Just as she was about to close her eyes to rest, she heard an indescribable sounding from the main bedroom of the courtyard house.

    "..."

    "Doesn''t he ever feel tired?"

    ¡ª¡ª

    Two dayster.

    Chen Sansi habitually got up early to practice with his spear.

    These days, Sun Li had been staying at his house.

    But she was out early and returnedte daily, rarely encountering others, and had not found another opportunity to spar.

    After breakfast, Chen Sansi headed to the military camp to clock in for work.

    Along the way, many people greeted him.

    Managing over a hundred people, if not amander of a hundred, he was almost one, and among the Households, aside from Xiang Tingchun, there was no one else who could manage him.

    "When the new recruit assessment period ends, who knows how many military soldiers and Array Soldiers will emerge."

    Chen Sansi summoned the old schr, "Xu Wencai, gather everyone together, please."

    "Alright!"

    About ten minutester, the soldiers gradually assembled, many of them still yawning.

    ''I need to find time to manage them properly, can''t let them continue to be so negligent.''

    Chen Sansi frowned slightly, "Zhu Tong, lead them in doing Pile Work for an hour."

    "Okay!"

    Zhu Tongplied.

    Continue your adventure at empire

    Chen Sansi continued to practice with his spear nearby, asionally stopping to rest. He would go up and give hands-on instructions to those whose movements were off. He had been training them this waytely.

    Finally, the panel fluctuated.

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (Entry-level)]

    [Progress: 0/500]

    [Utility: Mainstay]

    [Mainstay: Where themander is, all soldiers remain Calm in Crisis!]

 Chapter 65 Sun Buqi

    Chen Sansi looked at the panel''s exnation for "Mainstay" and quickly understood the effect of the term.

    Calm in Crisis.

    Such in and unremarkable four words at first nce.

    In reality,

    To be a tiger and wolf troop that all armies across thend aspire to be, the first quality needed is embodied in these four words!

    Chen Sansi hade to understand this while reading Military Books.

    What use is a luxuriously equipped army if it trembles at the sight of the enemy?

    And the military formations,

    No matter how exquisitely trained the formations are in peacetime, if they cannot remain Calm in Crisis, they will never exhibit their true power.

    Most ancient armies would rout if the casualty rate exceeded one-fifth.

    Chen Sansi had heard Xu Wencai saying that the reason the Eight Camps were invincible was that they could withstand losing half their numbers without copsing, remaining unshaken even in dire straits.

    Half the forces wiped out without yielding, how terrifying is that data?

    In the year fifty-seven of the Longqing era, during the battle of the ck Tortoise Camp in the Southern regions, it was said they had the opportunity to retreat, but instead, they chose to face the challenge, fighting to thest man.

    Of course, some survived, but since it was recorded this way, it indicates that at least ny percent died in battle.

    They must have had their own faith in their hearts.

    That Chen Sansi could be the mainstay for the soldiers meant that he would inevitably create an elite force eventually.

    It was because he was easy to bully that Magistrate Ji caused him trouble.

    Personal strength was one aspect, and theck of authority in his hands was another.

    He wouldn''t need too much, even just a thousand loyal men under hismand, and who would dare to provoke him easily?

    After training in the morning, Chen Sansi went to the archery range to practice his Archery.

    With Martial Arts as the priority, he tried to ensure he didn''t neglect any Skill.

    "Bang Bang Bang Bang Bang¡ª¡ª"

    With a fifteen-stone Big Bow, each arrow hitting the target caused a loud noise, and the grass-rope targets fell one after another.

    [Skill: Archery (small achievement)]

    [Progress: (205/1000)]

    It''s worth noting that, although the proficiency hadn''t advanced, his archery had not hit a dead end.

    Now, Chen Sansi could hit willow leaves from one hundred and fifty steps away.

    One hundred and fifty steps, nearly two hundred meters of precise range, exponentially stronger than an ordinary handgun.

    "Swoosh¡ª¡ª"

    A crisp eagle cry sounded overhead as two hawks flew over the archery range.

    Chen Sansi took this as a good chance to practice, and incidentally to make a bit of silver.

    Two hawks could also sell for a few taels of silver.

    A mosquito is still meat no matter how small!

    The costs of practicing Martial Arts only growrger over time, and he would not disdain any amount.

    Chen Sansi''s gaze was firmly fixed on the sky, waiting for the two hawks to reach the right height and angle, then he let loose a Triangr Armor-piercing arrow that predictably achieved a double hit with a single shot!

    "Swoosh¡ª¡ª"

    Apanied by a cry of despair, the two hawks fell from the sky and hit the ground.

    "Impossible! Absolutely impossible!"

    As Chen Sansi was about to retrieve his prey, he saw a young man of simr age, with an incredulous expression on his face, running over.

    Chen Sansi had an exceptional memory. He was certain he hadn''t seen this person in the military camp; it was a stranger.

    "Brother, how did you do that?"

    The young man was also holding a bow and arrow, imitating the action of drawing a bow, "Those two hawks just now were at least forty zhang off the ground, how did you manage that!"

    Chen Sansi felt it was all very bewildering, "Manage what exactly?"

    "I mean, how did you shoot so urately?"

    The young man was excited, "How heavy is your Big Bow, ten stone or fifteen stone? May I borrow it for one shot?"

    "Sorry, I''m a bit busy," Chen Sansi replied honestly.

    He had countless things on his te to grind, and many other tasks to handle.

    If he had free time, he wouldn''t mind chatting a bit more.

    "One hundred taels!"

    The young man suddenly made an offer, his tone sincere, "Brother, if you agree to be my Archery mentor, I''m willing to pay two hundred taels of silver every month!"

    "How much?"

    Chen Sansi doubted what he heard.

    "You think it''s too little? Two hundred taels! I can''t offer more; I''m in a rush this trip and truly short on money," the young man exined.

    Two hundred taels, short on money?

    Chen Sansi scrutinized the young man.

    The other party had quite a few valuable essories on him, including a belt, a jade pendant, and the bow and arrow he held, which were intricately carved from top-quality materials.

    Where did this young mastere from?

    Who cares where the young master came from, even if it''s the son of Magistrate Ji, you don''t turn down free silver!

    "Agreed."

    Chen Sansi epted the offer, "Come to the Martial Arts Arena tomorrow, and I will teach you."

    The young man was delighted, "Alright, master!"

    "No need to call me master."

    Chen Sansi was speechless; such casualness was too much.

    He waved his hand and took his leave.

    "A mere Po Yang Thousand Households and yet it has such a fiercemander!"

    Sun Buqi''s mind kept reying the scene.

    A big bow of more than ten stones, shooting birds from a distance of one hundred and fifty steps.

    Bone training martial artist, wouldn''t it be one arrow, one kill?

    Two hundred taels of silver to learn this skill was an absolute bargain!

    No need to practice spears anymore.

    "One hundred and fifty steps."

    Sun Buqi raised his bow and arrow, trying to imitate.

    On the target range, there wasn''t even a target at one hundred and fifty steps. The farthest was at one hundred and twenty steps, and he could barely make out the bullseye.

    "A rare talent, truly a rare talent!"

    As he was feeling astounded, someone suddenly struck him hard on the back of his head.

    "Sun Buqi!" Read new adventures at empire

    Sun Li, holding a scabbard, said, "What are you doing here? Have you finished investigating what I asked you to?"

    "Sister, can you not always hit me on the head?"

    Sun Buqi said gravely, "Don''t worry, I''ve finished it all.

    "Firstly, the person is Chen Sansi.

    "His family background is clean, and there''s no falsifying about his military enlistment time, he''s truly been training close to bone level in just over two months.

    "He yed a critical role in the Song Family massacre case.

    "Seems like it started because people from Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy bullied his former fellow vigers, and he couldn''t stand it, killing a group of academy disciples in the street.

    "His courage is astonishing, and as a person, he does not forget his roots. Even after bing an official, he''s willing to help his old friends. Dad would definitely like a person like that."

    "Hmm."

    Sun Li agreed with this judgment.

    After several days of interaction, the little junior brother was quite good.

    Diligent in martial arts practice, and a decent person.

    The only minor w...

    Was that he was a bit too spirited, causing trouble every night.

    But being young, that was somewhat excusable.

    Only then did the investigation into Chen Sansi as a Selected Point finallye to aplete conclusion.

    Sun Li then asked, "What about the Witch God Sect?"

    "Couldn''t find them inside or outside the city."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Sun Buqi stroked his chin, "Could they have already fled back to the grasnd?"

    "If you can''t find them in the city or outside, then search the mountains."

    Sun Li quickly made a judgment, "If they are not found in the mountains, then search the homes of the officials, the houses of the martial arts halls, including Xiang Tingchun."

    "That''s not necessary, is it?"

    Sun Buqi said tentatively, with some apprehension, "The more I find out, the more bizarre it seems. Did Dad send us here because we, as bone training martial artists, are not enough?"

    "Now you''reining about your realm being too low? Why didn''t you train earlier?"

    Sun Li''s expression was solemn, "Dad made these arrangements for a reason. We just follow his lead. This afternoon I''ll go up the mountain with you."

    "Sister, I don''t need to train anymore!"

    Sun Buqi''s eyes shone with confidence as he said, "I''ve just taken on a rare talent as my master. If I can master his teachings, with a mere flick of my fingers, I could take the life of a bone training martial artist!

    "Eh, eh, eh, sister, don''t walk away, I''m serious! It''s only two hundred taels for a month!"

    ...

    "Medical Officer Jiang, prepare two servings of Bone Nourishing Soup for me."

    Outside the pharmacy, Chen Sansi said, "And also prepare a Medicine Bath for me."

    "The Medicine Bath, that costs a hundred taels."

    Medical Officer Jiang teased, "You''re sshing out so much ¨C did you bump into an Exotic Beast or something?"

    "No such thing, just ran into a rich young master."

    Chen Sansi chatted while taking out fifty taels of silver.

    Once he drank this bowl of Bone Nourishing Soup, he should break through.

 Chapter 66 Nine Dragon Living Veins

    Bone Training Realm.

    From entry-level to Great Sess, it is known as the training of muscles, bones, skin, and marrow.

    But in reality, with each breakthrough, the strength of the bones increases as part of a lengthy, holistic process, not achieved overnight.

    Just as after Blood Refining Great Sess, the Qi-Blood is set in ce.

    After Bone Forging Great Sess, the bones will also be set in ce.

    Muscle training is the first step.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Bone Nourishing Soup enters the stomach.

    The medicinal strength, carried throughout the body by the blood of the Dragon Elephant, causes an intolerable itching in the bones and meridians. Whenbined with the pain of Breathing Skill and Pile Work, it forms an indescribable torment.

    Chen Sansi sheds his upper garment and exhibits his solid muscles, closing his eyes in the crisp autumn wind as he practices the most intricate moves of the Undying Golden Snake Spear technique.

    On the surface, his postures appear bizarre and twisted, yet each movement is firmly executed.

    It is only with the extremely difficult moves in coordination withplex Pile Work, coupled with the Breathing Skill, that one can refine the bones and meridians to their limits.

    Chen Sansi is experienced and unhurried, leaving everything to time.

    Sun Li happens to return and seeing this, she stands by the wall and instructs, "Junior Brother, slow the cirction of your Qi-Blood, focus on feeling the interaction of muscles and bones. The tougher the meridians you train, the better for Bone Strengthening... Never mind, I''ll help you."

    Chen Sansi, focused on swinging the reed-leaf long spear, doesn''t respond to the woman''s words.

    He only hears light footsteps approaching him.

    Subsequently, Chen Sansi feels a pair of cool jade hands tapping on his joints and meridians, obviously guiding the order of muscle training.

    He concentrates on understanding it.

    Until a certain moment.

    Meridians within Chen Sansi''s body, came alive!

    The meridians of a martial artist includerge and small tendons, as well as the Bone Membrane covering the surface of the bones.

    At this moment.

    His entire body''s meridians seem to have life of their own, withrge meridians like dragons and small ones like serpents, twining around his joints, muscles, and the Bone Membrane on the surface of his bones, continuously drawing upon the blood of the Dragon Elephant to temper his bones.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear. Level (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 0/500]

    [Utility: The Blood of the Dragon Elephant, Nine Dragon Living Veins]

    [Nine Dragon Living Veins: Meridians as stout and resilient as serpents and dragons, only the finest meridians can nourish the highest quality bones.]

    Nine Dragon Living Veins?

    Chen Sansi circtes his Qi-Blood, and veins bulge all over his body, particrly visible on his arms, neck, and temples, resembling azure dragons coiling around, making him look quite daunting from afar.

    These meridians not only bring formidable strength but also greatly increase the toughness of the bones.

    Unless one is a martial artist, ordinary people wielding kitchen knives would be unable to cut through his bones.

    "Your meridians..."

    Sun Li, somewhat unsure, grasps his solid arms and carefully feels the throbbing of the meridians, "Nine Dragons Bone, Junior Brother is actually a Nine Dragon Body? No wonder, no wonder your martial arts practice advances so swiftly."

    "Nine Dragon Body?"

    Chen Sansi doesn''t dodge.

    He understands that upon bing a disciple, sooner orter his bones would have to be examined to assess his qualification.

    Especially something like meridians, which absolutely cannot be hidden.

    Luckily, ording to present trends, as his realm improves, his status will continually enhance his physique until he genuinely bes a special Martial Body, without fear of scrutiny.

    He takes the opportunity to learn more, "Please enlighten me, Senior Sister, what is so unique about the Nine Dragon Body?"

    "Many things."

    Sun Li exins, "Simr to Tiger Evil Body, Golden Python Body, and others, can be seen from childhood, while the Nine Dragon Body is disyed step by step with the improvement of one''s realm.

    "For example, ordinary martial artists, after reaching Bone Forging Perfection, have tough ox-hide and bones that can effectively resist fatal injuries.

    "But martial artists with special physiques, upon reaching Bone Forging Perfection, will have Xuan Skin and Abnormal Bone."

    "The so-called Xuan Skin, after being filled with Qi-Blood, bes as tough as the shell of a mystical turtle; Abnormal Bone means the bones have undergone a transformation and are harder than stone. In actualbat, it''s very difficult for them to be killed in a short period.

    "Upon reaching Bone Forging Perfection, the Nine Dragon Body will also reach the level of Xuan Skin and Abnormal Bone.

    "Each physique has its own special traits.

    "For example, the Nine Dragon Body''s biggest characteristic is its constant growth, gaining an advantage at every realm.

    "When reaching the Blood Refining realm, one can cultivate Nine Dragon Blood, and upon reaching Bone Training, one can cultivate Nine Dragon Living Veins..."

    "Nine Dragon Blood?"

    Chen Sansi picks up on the key term in the conversation.

    "Of course, the Nine Dragon Body cultivates the Nine Dragon Blood," Sun Li states matter-of-factly, "No wonder Junior Brother''s Qi-Blood is so enduring and inexhaustible."

    No, that''s not right...

    Chen Sansi''s Qi-Blood isn''t the Nine Dragon Blood; it''s the Dragon Elephant Blood!

    Could it be that the breakthrough brought about by the panel changes isn''t just one kind of constitution?

    This, however, is no longer something I can ask about.

    "Congrattions, Junior Brother,"

    Sun Li congratted, "With the breakthrough into the Bone Training Realm, I fear you might bring us more surprises before we return to Liangzhou."

    "Thanks to Senior Sister Sun''s guidance,"

    Chen Sansi expressed his gratitude.

    Reaching the Bone Training Realm would mean promotion to the rank of a hundred households, rightfully managing over a hundred people.

    Moreover, there were ranks within the hundred households.

    Sixth Rank military officer.

    Looking at the rank alone, it was even higher than that of a Seventh Rank Magistrate.

    With the identity of an Imperial Official, nobody would dare to touch him without concrete evidence.

    Chen Sansi immediately went to the barracks to report his breakthrough.

    Xiang Tingchun was very straightforward, promptly writing a petition to the court''s relevant department, promoting him to the rank of a hundred households.

    When he came out, he saw the figure of Magistrate Ji Guangxian again.

    This guy was sitting in a carriage outside the barracks, heading towards the direction of the county town.

    The person responsible for driving the carriage was a disciple of the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy.

    Since Ji Guangxian''s arrival in Poyang, he had been staying in therge residence prepared for him by the Martial Arts Hall.

    It must be assumed that during this period, several martial arts halls had not stopped fanning the mes, encouraging Ji to make a move against him.

    "Start with Medicine Valley!"

    Now that Chen Sansi had achieved Bone Forging and possessed the fifteen stone Big Bow, exploring Medicine Valley was definitely within reach.

    Tonight, he must clear up the situation inside.

    He didn''t expose the situation earlier because he knew that Xiang Tingchun was very likely to cover it up now.

    As for Sun Li...

    They had just met not long ago; mutual trust was insufficient.

    Rashly revealing the news might lead her to suspect him if she failed to find the Immortal Treasure in Medicine Valley.

    Better to take a look first.

    If he really couldn''t handle it alone, then he woulde up with another n.

    There was another problem.

    "Going out during the day, I''m bound to be spotted."

    "If it''s at night, Sun Li is staying at my house."

    "I have to make her think I''ve never left."

    Chen Sansi pondered and quickly came up with a n.

    That night, in the bedroom.

    "Sister Lan, I need you to go to some trouble for me tonight."

    "What kind of trouble?"

    "You''ll know soon."

    "..."

    ...

    In the guest room.

    Sun Li, holding her long spear,y on the bed, listening to the noisesing from the main bedroom.

    "..."

    "It''s getting more and more excessive."

    "Even if young, one shouldn''t be so indulgent."

    "After all, I am a woman; it''s not something I can speak about."

    "If I had known, I wouldn''t have stayed here."

    It continued making noise until midnight, finally quieting down.

    Sun Li waited another half hour.

    After confirming that her Junior Brother and his wife were asleep, she quietly got up, scaled the wall, and left the estate.

 Chapter 67 Spiritual Grain

    Chen Sansi, his face covered, carried a long spear and bow on his back as he sped like lightning to the Second Layer Mountain as fast as possible.

    The night was pitch-ck and windy, the bright moon no longer visible.

    He concealed himself in a deep mountain valley, where the only sounds were the rustling of nocturnal animals, with no other disturbances.

    Only from the direction of Medicine Valley shone a faint orange-yellow firelight.

    At the entrance, quite a few Martial Arts Academy Disciples guarded the gate.

    "It would be strange if there were no ghosts inside!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Chen Sansi slipped into the dense forest nearby.

    With "Tracking and Hiding" at his side, even in the pitch-dark environment where he couldn''t see his hand in front of his face, he could easily perceive any movement around him and quickly found a rugged path that would allow him to approach Medicine Valley unnoticed.

    He arrived at arge tree above the side of Medicine Valley.

    Chen Sansi quietly observed theyout within Medicine Valley.

    It was indeed a medicinal garden, not a disguise, with numerous medicinal herbs nted both inside and out.

    "I''ll pack and take themter."

    "I should have brought a sack with me!"

    "It''s all silver ah!"

    He looked on with envy.

    Even though he had recently been drained of silver by Xiang Tingchun, the Martial Arts Hall was still rich enough.

    "First the main business."

    Chen Sansi carefully counted.

    There were about seven or eight disciples guarding the various entrances of Medicine Valley.

    Luckily, they were rather scattered, not difficult to deal with.

    He casually reached for and urately picked out the Thyme Needle Arrow from the many types of arrows at his waist.

    This kind of arrow, true to its name, had a t head and a narrow, long de with strong piercing power, and it was not noisy, killing people silently.

    "Staying upte and working overtime at such ate hour is also a hard life, have a good rest."

    "Swoosh¡ª¡ª"

    "Swoosh¡ª¡ª"

    In less than half a minute, all eight Martial Arts Academy Disciples had fallen asleep, without making a sound.

    Chen Sansi was then able to enter Medicine Valley smoothly.

    In the depths of the valley, he found the source of the firelight.

    In these deep mountains and old forests, there was actually a mansion.

    From the details of the exterior, it appeared to have been built not long ago.

    "Ah..."

    Before Chen Sansi had even gotten close, he could already hear a feeble wailing from inside.

    ...

    Inside the mansion.

    What should have been used as a hall, there was no furniture, just a candbra flickering dim candlelight.

    In the corner, there was a white-haired pharmacist pushing a medicine mill, asionally adding some materials to it, producing a rhythmic grating sound.

    Beside him, apart from herbs,y a bundle of fresh Spiritual Grain.

    Liang Zhan was nearby, sword in hand, training ardently.

    The sword shadows flickered, dazzling to the eyes.

    "Whoosh¡ª¡ª"

    Only after he was drenched in sweat and exhausted did he stop.

    At the same time, a man bound tight was dragged out by the old servant from the next room.

    The bound man was dressed in coarse hemp clothes, seemingly robust, but now extremely weak and pale, with ck and purple veins on his neck that resembled crawling earthworms.

    He uncontrobly convulsed, emitting painful moans from his mouth and continuously vomiting ck blood.

    "What are they doing?"

    On the roof.

    Having finally infiltrated the ce, Chen Sansi lifted the tiles and saw this scene right before his eyes.

    The man seemed to have been poisoned.

    Why would the Martial Arts Hall capture someone and poison them, to test medicine?

    His gaze swept across the room.

    Beside the medicine mill were...

    Spiritual Grain?!

    Chen Sansi''s pupils suddenly dted.

    Outside the military campy vast expanses of farnd; how could he not recognize this thing.

    The year was the twenty-first year of Longqing.

    The old Emperor imed to have dreamt of an Immortal bestowing treasures upon him.

    Upon waking, he ordered that one-tenth of the nation''s arablend be used to cultivate this herb.

    But this item, called Immortal Herbs, was actually Poison Grass.

    Anyone who consumed it would die instantly, beyond saving.

    The symptoms were simr to those of the man before him, with veins turning ck and blood flowing from every orifice.

    Was the Martial Arts Hall capturing live people to feed them Spiritual Grain?

    What was the purpose?

    Chen Sansi held his breath and continued to secretly watch.

    A few minutes went by, and sure enough, the man started to bleed from every orifice and finally breathed hisst.

    The old servant of the Liang Family had been waiting for a long time; he took out a dagger and went up to gut the corpse.

    His hands, like dried branches, tore through the flesh and extracted a pitch-ck medicine pill, handing it to an old man who had been milling medicine in the corner.

    "The toxicity has been removed; the young master can eat it now,"

    Pharmacist Li, after checking, presented it with both hands.

    Stay connected through empire

    Liang Zhan took the blood-stained, still-warm medicine pill and swallowed it without any hesitation.

    "Hiss!"

    The moment he swallowed the medicine, he gasped in pain and quickly started his Pile Workbined with Breathing Skill, barely managing to suppress the anomaly inside his body.

    "Genius!"

    Feeling the strong effects of the medicine, Liang Zhan couldn''t stop praising, "Pan Quan is truly a genius! How did he think of using live people to filter out the toxins?

    "We only need ten people to remove more than ny percent of the toxins.

    "The effects of one medicine pill are worth a hundred silver''s worth of medicinal materials!

    "This is still just a crude method.

    "To really bring out the effects of Spiritual Grain, we must use an Immortal Treasure.

    "Unfortunately, Xiang Tingchun is too overbearing, and to this day, we still do not know what the Immortal Treasure is!"

    "Yes,"

    The old servant sighed, "Lately, Po Yang has been fraught with trouble, and even the flesh and blood of Supervisor Sun has arrived, seemingly investigating this matter. The various Martial Arts Halls dare not continue capturing people en masse. This one was thest we had; there are no more."

    "I''m still not talented enough,"

    Liang Zhanmented, "Even with the Spiritual Grain, I''m currently only proficient in the Bone Strengthening Skill, far from small achievement.

    "I really envy that Chen guy; he achieved Great Sess in Blood Refining after just two months of Martial Arts training.

    "Speaking of which, Old Sung''s subordinate offended him, and ended up in such a plight...

    "Back then, Qin Feng wanted his life; how could he spare me in the future?"

    The more he thought, the more terrified he felt, "We need to press Magistrate Ji, we must eliminate him before he progresses in Bone Training, or at the very least, drive him out of Po Yang County."

    "Bang¡ª"

    Just as his words ended, a bone-crushing sound exploded by his ear.

    Suddenly, a pitch-ck thunderbolt struck, hitting the Bone Training Realm old servant on the head, blowing open his skull with aplete pration!

    "Uncle Wu?!"

    Before Liang Zhan could react, another ck thunderbolt struck down.

    This time, it wasing towards him.

    "Bang!"

    Liang Zhan''s bones could not resist at all and were pierced by the terrifying thunderbolt through his shoulder, nailing him directly to the wall behind him.

    The Pharmacist was not spared either; his thigh was smashed by the ck thunderbolt, and he fell to the ground, screaming in agony.

    Everything happened too suddenly, taking only two to three seconds.

    It was only then that Liang Zhan realized what had happened.

    There was no such thing as a ck thunderbolt.

    What was embedded in him was clearly an Armor-piercing Arrow!

    What kind of bow and arrow could possess such terrifying power?!

    He was a bone training martial artist!

    "Boom¡ª"

    Another loud noise came from above, and the roof tiles turned into fragments, falling down inrge pieces, copsing a clear,rge hole in the roof.

    A figure descended from the sky, holding a bow and arrow, with a long spear on his back.

    "Very well, you really are trying to harm me!"

    Chen Sansi shouted coldly.

 Chapter 68 The Beginning of Everything

    "Is it you?!"

    Upon recognizing the person, Liang Zhan''s heart trembled.

    Around the Medicine Valley, eight direct disciples stood guard!

    He could not imagine how the person managed to infiltrate without a sound.

    "Somebodye¡ª"

    As Liang Zhan shouted, he raised his long sword in an attempt to strike back.

    "Bang¡ª"

    He had just lifted his arm when another ck thunderbolt struck, piercing through his wrist and nailing it to the wall. His long sword nged to the ground, and he lost any ability to resist.

    "Brother Chen!"

    Liang Zhan squeezed out a smile at the masked figure before him, but it appeared twisted due to the intense pain: "Brother Chen, there is no need for such drastic measures, right?"

    "Less nonsense!"

    Chen Sansi tore off his mask.

    In fact, his weapon was so conspicuous that being masked or not made little difference.

    The only safe method was to tie up loose ends cleanly.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    He shot another arrow at Liang Zhan''s left hand and said, "Next, whatever I ask, you answer!"

    The situation was overlyplicated.

    Just by eavesdropping on bits and pieces, he couldn''t ascertain the whole picture.

    It was best to keep a live witness to interrogate first.

    "Ah¡ª"

    Liang Zhan shook physically from the pain and pleaded continuously, "Brother Chen! Ask me anything you want, I''ll tell you everything I know without holding back!"

    "Good!"

    Chen Sansi asked, "Is the Immortal Treasure in Xiang Tingchun''s hands, and is he using it to coerce you into donating military supplies to the Households?"

    "How did you know?"

    Liang Zhan was so severely injured that his forehead was covered in cold sweat: "What you said is correct."

    Chen Sansi asked, "What exactly is the Immortal Treasure?"

    With intermittent difficulty, Liang Zhan said, "I... I don''t know..."

    "Bang¡ª"

    In an instant, another arrow struck, pinning his right leg as well.

    "Ah!!!"

    Liang Zhan nearly passed out from the pain, "Brother Chen, spare my life, I''m not lying, we have been searching all along, and we only know that this thing can definitely extract the essence of Spiritual Grain..."

    "Start from the beginning!"

    Chen Sansi issued his final ultimatum.

    "It was the barbarian Tuoba Tribe!"

    With gritted teeth, Liang Zhan continued through his pain, "Two months ago..."

    As the other party detailed his ount.

    Chen Sansi finally began to roughly understand the ins and outs of the matter.

    Two months ago!

    At that time, he had just crossed over and was still worried about Qin Xiong''s affairs.

    Meanwhile, on the distant grasnds, a royal session struggle took ce in the barbarian Tuoba Tribe.

    The third prince of the Tuoba Tribe failed in his coup and, after faking his death, fled to the border of the Great Sheng Dynasty.

    Before he left, he stole the Tuoba Tribe''s treasure, naturally the Immortal Treasure, hoping to offer it to the Emperor Dasheng to convince the Great Sheng Dynasty to send troops to help him reim the throne.

    After arriving at Po Yang.

    Fearing pursuit, the Tuoba prince sought out the local magistrate, hoping he could notify the Prefecture City to find a martial expert from the city to escort him straight to the Capital City.

    Old Zhang, who was the Magistrate at the time, had spent half his life in the bureaucratic world.

    He knew all too well one thing.

    If the higher-ups in the Prefecture City got involved, where would there be a share of credit for him?

    Therefore, he sought help from the Four Great Martial Arts Schools, nning to monopolize this meritorious deed.

    But a bloodied mess ensued.

    Yunhe Master, after overhearing the conversation between the magistrate and the prince, got greedy.

    Since no one knew about the prince being in Po Yang, couldn''t they just kill him and seize the treasure?

    In the future, with the help of the Immortal Treasure, they could grow stronger and step out of Po Yang to be a first-ss sect in the Jianghu.

    So, under the grand vision, the Four Great Martial Arts Schools joined forces to act, first poisoning, thenunching a surprise attack, intending to kill the Magistrate and Emperor Tuoba together.

    However, the Prince was not one to be trifled with and, under such circumstances, he forcefully took the key and escaped.

    The Four Great Martial Arts Schools were only left with a box they could not open.

    And not long after, the Prince stealthily returned, killed Yunhe Master, and reimed the Jade Box.

    The matter blew up.

    Seeing that they could no longer keep it a secret, the Four Great Martial Arts Schools sought help from Xiang Tingchun, hoping he would take action and promising that once they obtained the Immortal Treasure, they would share it together.

    As for what happened next,

    Chen Sansi became involved.

    During the pursuit of Emperor Tuoba, the Witch God Sect intervened rashly.

    This led to the Prince being seriously wounded and escaping, only to die outside the city.

    As a result, the treasure was picked up by him.

    What a thrilling treasure hunt.

    "Spiritual Grain!"

    Chen Sansi pressed for answers relentlessly, "What is Spiritual Grain used for?"

    "Cough cough cough..."

    Liang Zhan, his mouth filled with blood, insisted, "The Prince didn''t reveal much.

    "We only know that with the Immortal Treasure, one can refine treasure medicine that aids in cultivation.

    "Among them, Spiritual Grain is one of the most important raw materials.

    "Exactly how it is used, we are not clear.

    "That''s why...

    "We captured people for experimentation.

    "Pan Quan developed a special kind of Medicine Pills, grinding Spiritual Grain into powder and adding it to them. Once ingested, a person begins to absorb the Spiritual Grain.

    "Roughly ten people are needed topletely purge the toxin from the Spiritual Grain.

    "Unfortunately, this process also wastes most of the essence of the Spiritual Grain, resulting in Medicine Pills that are only moderately effective, offering significant help only to bone training martial artists."

    Chen Sansi nced at the local man dying in agony and understood what was happening.

    His face showed no expression, "You''re using living people as filters?"

    "They''re just lowly peasants, what does it matter?"

    Liang Zhan spoke naturally, "Even a locally concocted medicine can have such good effects. If we get the Immortal Treasure and give it some time, not to mention Refining Internal, even reaching Hua Jin is not far-fetched!

    "Otherwise, why would we willingly be stepping stones for Xiang Tingchun''s promotion? It''s all for the Immortal Treasure!"

    "Brother Chen, let''s cooperate!

    "As long as you don''t kill me, we''ll pretend today''s events never happened.

    "Not just that, my Liang Family will provide you with all the resources you need. With your qualifications, Refining Internal is only a matter of time.

    "Once you achieve Refining Internal, we can join forces to kill Xiang Tingchun, seize the Immortal Treasure, and ascend to the pinnacle of Martial Arts!"

    "You still want to kill Commander Households Xiang?"

    Chen Sansi deliberately frightened him, "Guess who sent me here?"

    Liang Zhan became somewhat confused, quickly correcting himself, "No, no, Brother Chen, you misunderstand, you cannot kill me!

    "As long as you don''t kill me, I can give you anything, money, medicinal materials..."

    His gaze shifted outside, "The Medicine Garden! Do you see this garden of medicinal herbs? Spare my life, and everything here is yours!"

    "Fool! If you''re dead, everything will still be mine!"

    Chen Sansi stated.

    This rendered Liang Zhanpletely silent; he could not utter a word for a long while.

    Chen Sansi pointed to the body on the ground used for testing the medicine, "Just now, you said he was what?"

    "A, a lowly peasant from the countryside..."

    Liang Zhan answered as a matter of course.

    His voice grew lower, making onest effort to survive, "Brother Chen, are we really unable to cooperate? Xiang Tingchun won''t treat you as one of his own. For him, as long as he can climb the ranks, he will discard anyone! Isn''t it good to continue capturing people for alchemy to improve our cultivation?"

    "Brother Liang, have you forgotten something?"

    Chen Sansi looked at his panicked eyes and said solemnly, "I tooe from the countryside."

    "Whoosh¡ª" Enjoy exclusive chapters from empire

    An arrow from a Qimei crossbow directly pierced through Liang Zhan''s forehead, ending his life.

    Chen Sansi turned his gaze to the corner, where the Pharmacisty bleeding on the ground, barely alive:

    "Do you have a sack here?"

 Chapter 69 Murder and Arson

    "Boom¡ª"

    In the dark night, a ze shot up into the sky.

    Chen Sansi swiftly left, carrying a sack.

    This time, he had truly struck it rich!

    Before leaving, he had not only packed up everything he could carry but also obtained several medical books from the pharmacist, and then he murdered to silence them.

    All in all, he did not even know how much it was all worth!

    Moreover, since there were too many bodies to dispose of conveniently,

    Chen Sansi, worried that someone might recognize the arrow wound, simply gathered them in the courtyard and burned them all together.

    With thismotion,

    The Martial Arts Hall surely wouldn''t dare to capture live people for testing medicines anymore, which could be considered a good deed.

    Chen Sansi recalled the recent events in his mind.

    Spiritual Grain could actually enhance cultivation?

    Could it be the Old Emperor had really met an Immortal?

    Was he truly cultivating towards immortality?

    How to use the Immortal Treasure¡ªuse a special me and then simmer the Spiritual Grain?

    Chen Sansi spected about various things.

    Either way,mp oil plus Spiritual Grain equaled a treasure medicine that enhanced cultivation.

    Following this lead was definitely right.

    With that, the matter came to a close.

    With Xiang Tingchun willingly taking the me, no one would suspect him.

    Next, he had plenty of time to study it slowly.

    Chen Sansi, with three or four sacks on his back, hurriedly left Tiger Head Mountain.

    Taking all these things back was not practical; he first hid them in an old house in Yanbian Vige, then he took a detour back to the military settlement of the Households.

    "Senior Sister Sun is not here?"

    Chen Sansi keenly sensed something was amiss.

    The guest room was empty!

    He hurried to his own bedroom, and only after picking up a strand of hair from both the door gap and the window, did he finally breathe a sigh of relief.

    Before setting out,

    He had the foresight to pluck a few hairs from Sister Lan as a marker.

    It seemed he was overthinking.

    Sun Li had no intentions of monitoring him.

    But where was she going in the middle of the night?

    The chances were good that she''d discovered a clue about Medicine Valley.

    "Good thing I made my move first."

    ...

    "Sister, it looks like someone has already been here!"

    Sun Buqi stood on the wall, looking at the raging fire in the courtyard and made a calm analysis.

    "Is that even necessary to say?"

    Sun Li looked at the pit dug by the perpetrator to burn the bodies:"This guy was even worried about causing a wildfire..."

    "What a good person indeed!"

    Sun Buqi eximed feelingly.

    Recently, Sun Li and Sun Buqi, one openly and one secretly,

    had barely noticed that disciples from the Martial Arts Academy frequently left the city to go up the mountain, so they thought toe and check tonight.

    Upon discovering a fire nearby, they arrived only to witness this scene.

    "Fire, put out the fire!"

    ...

    The other nightwatchmen from nearby medicine gardens noticed the abnormality, shouting as they led men rushing over.

    "Let''s go back,"

    Sun Li sighed deeply: "We''ll check the other medicine gardens another day."

    ...

    The next day,

    As soon as Chen Sansi arrived at the military camp, he heard many people discussing the incident.

    "Did you hear?"

    "Last night, fire broke out on Second Layer Mountain."

    "This morning, during the city patrol, I personally saw several charred bodies carried back from the mountain!"

    "It seems like young masters from the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy were all burned to death!"

    "Why would there suddenly be a wildfire?"

    "Clearly, someone did it on purpose."

    "Who would dare to do such a thing?"

    ...

    After eavesdropping for a while, Chen Sansi headed to the Martial Arts Arena, gathering his subordinates for routine exercises.

    Several among them, as before, werezily skimping during the Pile Work practice.

    "Are you Zhao Jin from Li Zhuang?"

    Chen Sansi approached and spoke in an even tone.

    "Yes! Does the g leader know me?" the man asked, surprised.

    "Recognized."

    Chen Sansi asked, "How goes the training?"

    "It''s okay, just too exhausting."

    The man said with a joking smile, "It''s much more tiring than farming."

    "Then you should go back to farming."

    Chen Sansi suddenly said, "Xu Wencai, take him to collect the rations from these past few days."

    "Sir?!"

    The sudden expulsion baffled not just the man, but everyone present.

    "That''s good, I have something to say to you."

    Chen Sansi knew, he could no longer indulge them.

    He gathered his energy and spoke loudly, "I know you came to join the army because you, like me, were both raised outside the city in the countryside, and you think I would look after you.

    "Yes, I will indeed look after you!

    "Here, I can''t guarantee other things.

    "I, Chen Sansi, will definitely not embezzle a single grain of your food or a copper coin, and those with talent, I will also try my best to pass on martial arts!

    "But!

    "I hope you understand that this is the military, not an acting troupe, and soon, some of you will die! I mean, really die!

    "If you don''t train properly now, when you go to battleter, you will not only kill yourselves, but also get other brothers killed!

    "So, I''m giving you the ugly truth upfront."

    "From today, whoever dares to bezy and perfunctory, will just go home and farm like Zhao Jin.

    "I do not allow such a scourge to exist under mymand!

    "Do you understand?"

    When he had finished speaking, the martial arts arena was utterly silent.

    Those who had cked off earlier all showed embarrassed expressions.

    "Understood!"

    It took a long while, but they finally responded in unison.

    Despite actually holding some admiration for the young man before them, they were still not ustomed to martial arts training.

    Joining the army was something their fellow vigers had discussed and decided together.

    If anyone were to be driven away, it would be a great embarrassment.

    Chen Sansi sighed inwardly.

    He knew he had to set an example.

    Otherwise, there would always be people who took advantage of his approachability, and brazenly broke the rules.

    Like Zhao Jin, who from the very first day of enlistment didn''t train properly and often encouraged others to sneak out of camp to rest at home.

    What use was there in keeping such a person?

    "Continue!"

    At Chen Sansi''smand.

    The soldiers hurriedly resumed their pile work, each gritting their teeth and persevering, none daring to ck off again.

    Just then, the young master who had visited the day before came this way.

    Right on time.

    ...

    Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy.

    In the courtyard full of greenery, many burnt corpses wereid out, all ck and hardened, resembling matchsticks and barely recognizable as human.

    "Which... which one is Zhan''er!"

    Master Liang Shengzhi''s eyes were bloodshot, his emotions on the verge of copse, "Who! Who had the audacity!"

    He had four children, but only one son!

    And now met with a death leaving not even an intact body.

    The other two headmasters were also present.

    "It seems our affairs have been exposed."

    Pan Quan was frantic, "But what''s strange is, why has no onee for us?"

    Whoever came across the event on the mountain should not be this calm.

    Lately, many had been investigating.

    "My son!!!"

    Liang Shengzhi, overwhelmed with grief, looked closely at the corpses, trying to figure out which one was his son, not in the mood to listen to him.

    Pan Quan turned to the side, "Uncle Zhao, who do you think is behind this?"

    "If I remember correctly, Brother Liang''s son and that old servant were both in the Bone Training Realm, right?"

    Master Zhao, who had been silent all along, finally spoke slowly, "Plus, seven or eight True Disciples guarded the Medicine Garden, yet none survived to escape back here.

    "It indicates the attacker was of an exceptional realm, treating Bone Training martial artists as if ughtering chickens and dogs.

    "Looking over Po Yang County, who do you think could aplish this?"

    "Xiang Tingchun!"

    Pan Quan suddenly realized, "He must have noticed something, prated Medicine Valley to spy on the secrets, nning to monopolize the secret of the Immortal Treasure!"

    "That''s right. Exactly."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Master Zhao affirmed, "Otherwise, if our affairs were exposed, why would there be no questions directed at us? If it was Xiang Tingchun, it makes sense. With the Immortal Treasure in his hands, why would he want the issue revealed?"

    "That Xiang is truly malicious!"

    Pan Quan cursed angrily, "Not content with destroying the Song Family, now relying on his Refining Internal Realm, and having our weaknesses, preparing to slowly devour us, andpletely consume our houses!"

    "Xiang Tingchun!"

    Liang Shengzhi roared, "You and I shall never coexist! Even as a ghost, I will ensure we perish together!!!"

 Chapter 70 Lamp Oil and Spiritual Grain

    "Keep your body straight,"

    "Yes, just like that."

    On the archery range,

    Chen Sansi carefully instructed Sun Buqi.

    This young master was not only generous but also paid in advance.

    Two hundred Silver Taels in a note, it was his first time seeing such.

    "Shoo¡ª"

    Sun Buqi aimed and shot an arrow at a target a hundred steps away.

    He probably scored around the fourth ring.

    Unsatisfied, he shot another arrow, scoring in the second ring...

    "..."

    Chen Sansi had taught everything he could.

    Yet the young master hadn''t improved at all after two hours.

    His posture was correct, but he couldn''t hit the target precisely.

    "Master!"

    Sun Buqi insisted on calling him this, unstoppable: "How exactly do you do it?"

    Archery and martial arts aren''t closely rted.

    The level of martial arts realm could at most determine how heavy a bowstring one could pull.

    But the heavier the bow, the harder it is to control.

    Hundred-step Piercing, how easy could it be?

    Yet the extraordinary man before him, did more than just Hundred-step Piercing? Most terrifying was his uracy, never once missing the mark.

    "How do you do it?"

    Chen Sansi thought for a moment and concluded, "Mostly it''s through effort, ''Heaven rewards the diligent'' I guess!"

    "What a ''Heaven rewards the diligent''!"

    Sun Buqi grasped the true essence of it and was full of confidence about the future.

    Compared to martial arts, he was more obsessed with archery.

    Even at a high martial arts realm, one still has to fight closely for life.

    But with archery, one could take a life from a hundred steps away.

    He practiced martial arts only to be able to pull the bowstring of a heavy bow.

    Sun Buqi was full of motivation, continually pulling the bow and shooting arrows.

    "What is your honored surname?"

    Chen Sansi asked.

    The other was eager to learn, only now giving him the chance to inquire.

    Sun Buqi focused on his archery training, without turning his head back: "Sun Buqi."

    "Sun?"

    Chen Sansi hadn''t heard of a wealthy young master surnamed Sun in Po Yang County.

    He couldn''t help but think of the red-clothed woman: "Do you know Sun Li?"

    "I do,"

    Sun Buqi naturally replied: "She''s my older sister."

    Before Chen Sansi could react, a familiar voice rang out.

    "Sun Buqi."

    Sun Li appeared in her red attire, her voice filled with anger.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Sister, I''m in the middle of something serious here!"

    Sun Buqi quickly dodged, "This is, this is my archery master who can pierce Yang from one hundred and fifty steps, an extraordinary man!"

    "?"

    Sun Li paused, "What did you call him?"

    "Master,"

    Sun Buqi spread his hands, "Is there a problem?"

    "Little junior brother..."

    Sun Li gently held her forehead, "What''s going on here?"

    "Do not me my junior sister, I didn''t know he was a senior brother,"

    Chen Sansi was somewhat embarrassed, "But calling him master was just for fun, not to be taken seriously."

    "Are you Chen Sansi?!"

    Sun Buqi first shocked, then excitedly said: "Extraordinary! Not only a Nine Dragon Body but also a masterful archer! From now on I''ll call you master, you call me senior brother, and we each discuss our own!"

    "My brother has some issues with his brain,"

    Sun Li was about to burst out but then let it go: "Father named him Buqi, which originally meant ''Gentlemen are versatile.'' However, it turned out to be something ipetent..."

    "Senior sister, you speak too harshly,"

    Chen Sansi said: "Brother Buqi and I are of simr age, yet his realm is higher than mine, there must be something exceptional about him."

    "Can two months of martial arts practicepare to three years?"

    Sun Li took Sun Buqi away, "Junior brother, we still have matters to attend to, we must take our leave now."

    "Are they still investigating?"

    Chen Sansi really hadn''t expected even the young master of the Sun Family toe.

    He had particrly inquired recently.

    Sun Dushi originally had five children, but the first three all died in battle.

    Among them, the third child, who had the best talent for martial arts, died in the battle at Xuanwu Camp.

    Now, only a son and a daughter remain.

    They are Sun Buqi and Sun Li.

    It''s truly heartbreaking that the Supervisor sent his only remaining children here.

    After all, they were just undergoing bone training, and idents could still happen.

    "Boom¡ª"

    The sky erupted with a p of thunder and it started pouring heavily.

    Chen Sansi braved the rain to go to the pharmacy and carried away two y jars.

    Inside were the medicine baths he had pre-ordered.

    Just these two jars for one bath cost fifty silver taels.

    If it weren''t for Sun Buqi being generous, he really wouldn''t have been able to afford it.

    He poured the medicinal soup from the y jars into the wooden tub, then added cold water to mix the ck medicine bath.

    Chen Sansi stripped off his clothes and jumped in.

    "Hiss¡ª"

    Although the medicinal soup and water were cold, the moment they touched his skin, it felt as hot as boiling water and as irritating as chili water, painfully stinging every inch of his skin.

    The potent medicinal strength prated his pores and entered his flesh, tempering his bones.

    "Ah!"

    Following the doctor''s instructions, Chen Sansi sat cross-legged in the wooden tub, using the Haoran Breathing Skill.

    Even so, he couldn''tst more than five minutes before jumping out.

    His skin was red, and his whole body swelled up. He grabbed the reed leaf spear and rushed to the yard to practice his spear technique, using the Qi-blood to absorb the medicinal strength. Only then did the painful sensation start to subside.

    It wasn''t until itpletely vanished that he jumped back into the wooden tub.

    He repeated this process over and over until the effects of the medicine bath were exhausted.

    The pain was real.

    But the help it provided for his cultivation was immense.

    He took a medicine bath every three days.

    The silver in Chen Sansi''s house was quickly spent almost entirely.

    Luckily, there was significant progress in his cultivation.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear: Entry-level]

    [Progress: 58/500]

    [Utility: Blood of the Dragon Elephant, Nine Dragon Living Veins]

    "The pace is slowing down!"

    Even though Chen Sansi was aware that this speed of improvement was far beyond that of ordinary people, he was still somewhat dissatisfied.

    After all, war was imminent, and no one wouldin about having too high a cultivation level.

    "It''s almost time!"

    As time went on, the Medicine Valley incident gradually settled.

    Observing for several days, Chen Sansi confirmed that nobody had noticed him.

    Just as he was running out of silver at home, it was the right time to figure out how to use the Immortal Treasure and make use of the other spoils of war as well.

    After lunch,

    Chen Sansi quietly slipped into Yanbian Vige, swinging around the small woond and jumping over the wall into the yard, taking out the hidden items.

    Herb materials, Spiritual Grain, medicine mill, medicine jars, Medical Books¡­

    Basically,

    everything he could carry with him at the time, Chen Sansi stuffed into a bup sack.

    "Immortal Treasure¡­"

    "Spiritual Grain."

    ording to his reasoning, the me from the Immortal Treasure could likely eliminate the toxins of the Spiritual Grain and preserve its essence.

    But would a medicine jar or iron pot withstand the high temperatures of the me produced by the Immortal Treasure?

    Chen Sansi ced the Spiritual Grain in the pot, adding water.

    He then stuffed the stove''s base with firewood and smeared a small amount of mp oil" on the firewood.

    He used a fire stick to light it.

    "Boom¡ª"

    Red mes rose, and the temperature in the room soared as if it had instantly switched fromte autumn to severe summer.

    The cold water in the iron pot immediately boiled.

    "Crackle¡ª"

    However, the iron pot was quickly burnt through, and the liquid evaporatedpletely.

    The room was suddenly filled with steam until the firewood was quickly consumed and the mes died down.

    Just as Chen Sansi had guessed,

    an ordinary iron pot simply couldn''t withstand the temperature of the Abnormal Fire generated by themp oil.

    There was no need to even try with a medicine pot; it wouldn''tst long either.

    "What if I directly burn the Spiritual Grain?"

    "Scorching with Abnormal Fire is a form of tempering after all!"

    Thinking this, he immediately put his thoughts into action, preparing to test its feasibility.

 Chapter 71 Ashes

    Chen Sansi thought.

    Since the residual material extracted from a person''s stomach after feeding them medicine pills had extraordinary medicinal effects,

    then wouldn''t burning Spiritual Grain into nt ash at high temperatures be somewhat useful as well?

    Thinking this,

    he picked up a small handful of Spiritual Grain and stacked it together with some pine needles for kindling, then smeared a very small amount ofmp oil on top.

    Not daring to get too close,

    Chen Sansi held a lit stick far away and carefully approached themp oil.

    "Boom¡ª¡ª"

    The red mes erupted loudly.

    In an instant, the Spiritual Grain and the pine needles were burned to ash.

    Chen Sansi waited until the mes died down and carefully collected the grass ashes.

    "I need to conduct a live experiment."

    He cleaned up the house and then quietly climbed over the wall and headed straight for Second Layer Mountain.

    It took a great deal of effort not to harm the game before catching a rabbit.

    "Come, eat!"

    Chen Sansi pried open the rabbit''s mouth and poured a little bit of grass ash into it.

    The next second,

    the rabbit started thrashing wildly as if injected with chicken blood, and its strength increased significantly.

    But it didn''tst long before the rabbit, like a deted ball, breathed itsst.

    Chen Sansi carefully examined the body and saw no signs of darkening in the veins on the surface.

    But the skin beneath the fur was burning hot and red, as if blood was about to gush out from the inside, appearing as though an overly potent medicine had harmed the internal organs leading to bleeding.

    "Was it too weak to withstand the medicinal effect?"

    "I need to try it on something bigger!"

    He searched in the forest.

    It didn''t take long to find a jungle inhabited by cheetahs.

    The cheetah charged straight at him but was thwacked on the head by the long spear''s shaft, leaving it dazed and seeing stars.

    With the strength from his Bone Strengthening Skill, Chen Sansi could easily subdue the fierce beast.

    He pried open the cheetah''s mouth with the spear tip and poured in the grass ash: "Eat!"

    "Roar!!!!"

    The same reaction as the rabbit.

    After consuming the Spiritual Grain, the cheetah became extremely agitated; after about five minutes, its symptoms subsided. Although it did not die immediately, ity on the ground bleeding profusely, obviously not going to live much longer.

    "It indeedsted longer than the rabbit."

    "But internal bleeding urred as well."

    "Ifbined with cultivation practice, could the potency of the medicine be controlled?"

    "It seems animals won''t do; I need to experiment with a live person."

    Chen Sansi''s eyes shed fiercely.

    "You can capture vigers for experiments, so why can''t I capture you?!"

    From eavesdropping on Liang Zhan''s conversation, not one of the Four Great Martial Arts Schools was innocent.

    From the reactions of the leopard and the rabbit, there wouldn''t be uncontroble drastic changes happening in an instant; capturing a disciple with lower skills to test wouldn''t be a problem.

    Moreover, Second Layer Mountain had many medicine gardens.

    Even if they dared not capture more live humans, they would definitely still have disciples guarding the medicine gardens.

    Chen Sansi moved through the forest like a ghost.

    After staking out for two hours, he sessfully captured a disciple from Zhao''s Martial Arts Academy skilled in Blood Refining Technique and brought him to a secluded cave.

    No severe torture was needed; the Martial Arts Academy Disciple confessed everything.

    "Eat!"

    He forced the disciple to consume a small amount of grass ash and then practice his sect''s cultivation technique.

    Chen Sansi observed from a distance with a bow in hand.

    As expected.

    Not only did the Martial Arts Academy Disciple not die, but he also performed a set of boxing techniques vigorously, clearly showing the utility of the medicine.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "It seems my guess was correct!"

    With his goal achieved, Chen Sansi ended the experiment by shooting the disciple dead with an arrow.

    "If he could eat it and be fine, I definitely will be too."

    Adhering to a cautious principle, he picked up a very small amount of grass ash with his fingertip and sprinkled it into his mouth.

    The moment it entered his mouth, an indescribable sensation began spreading from the oral cavity, then swept through his entire body.

    This feeling was different from anything he had experienced with beast hearts or medicine.

    After ingesting it, it did not get digested and absorbed by organs but turned automatically into a strange form of "energy" that integrated into his body, flowing not only in his blood but also being stored in another "system."

    This was...

    Meridians?

    Meridians and tendons are two different concepts.

    Tendons are organs, visible human organs that can be seen when flesh and blood are cut open.

    But meridians are a mystical existence.

    Neither blood vessels nor tendons, but another "system" within the human body.

    Chen Sansi didn''t know much about this.

    He only knew that traditional Chinese medicine studied it.

    Before refining organs, people practicing martial arts don''t need to concern themselves with this concept.

    What''s happening?

    After consuming the Spiritual Grain, it turned out to have a direct effect on the meridians.

    If one wasn''t a martial artist, their body simply couldn''t withstand it, no wonder small animals would die explosively.

    Even for martial artists, the capacity to endure was limited, they needed to expend it in time.

    Chen Sansi hurriedly began practicing his spear technique inside the cave.

    He then discovered that the Spiritual Grain was surprisingly helpful for cultivation.

    Practically every repetition of spear technique practice substantially increased his proficiency by much more than what a medicine bath could provide.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear - Upper (Entry Level)]

    [Progress: 88/500]

    [Utility: Dragon Elephant Blood, Nine Dragon Living Veins]

    An afternoon''s improvement was equivalent to several days in the past!

    Moreover, the Spiritual Grain also had healing effects.

    That substance, like a gas, would repair injuries while circting inside the body.

    No wonder the old master of Tai Lei Martial Arts Academy hadn''t died.

    However, it still contained toxins.

    The gas mixed and tangled within the meridians, remaining there unless the energy was expended simultaneously flushing out the toxins.

    Yet, the toxin in the meridians metabolized very slowly.

    Unlike ordinary supplemental medicine, where vigorous cultivation could quickly expend it.

    Chen Sansi didn''t know whether it was because his realm was still low or because his cultivation technique did not involve the meridians.

    Regardless, only practicing movements in the air made the absorption efficiency of the Spiritual Grain extremely low.

    If he consumed too much, leading to the "energy" lingering too long in the body, the meridian toxin would undeniably cause irreversible damage to his body.

    "Perhaps it would be more effective if I had a sparring partner."

    "Realbat would definitely be better."

    Chen Sansi recalled battling Old Song, blood surging with all his might!

    If he could maintain that state, surely it would increase the speed of absorbing the Spiritual Grain.

    "Unfortunately, there aren''t that many opportunities for realbat."

    "Let''s take it slow."

    "The current effects are already astonishing!"

    After mastering the use of Spiritual Grain, Chen Sansi was full of confidence.

    ording to the original speed, by March in spring, the fastest he could achieve was mastery of Bone Strengthening Skill, but now, he had a high chance of refining internal organs!

    That is just four more months.

    Even he felt it was a bit exaggerated.

    Two months for Bone Training, four months for Refining Internal; in total, just six months.

    The height that took Xiang Tingchun half a lifetime to reach, he only needed six months, and what''s more, he was practicing a superior Breathing Skill.

    Immortal Treasure indeed was a treasure!

    "But in reality, I''m also a maverick."

    Chen Sansi guessed that aplete Immortal Treasure would likely be a set of alchemy equipment.

    It included forms, a container capable of withstanding temperatures, and most importantly, themp oil that could produce a red me!

    Then connecting to the Emperor''s quest for immortality...

    Once everything is assembled, wouldn''t it be possible to concoct the legendary Immortal Pills?!

    No wonder even the Old Emperor had sent people over.

    He must have heard some rumors!

    Chen Sansi suddenly realized the significance of the matter.

    If people found out, no amount of lives would suffice to atone.

    But wait.

    What did it have to do with him?

    The Immortal Treasure was in Xiang Tingchun''s hands!

    This guy had even dered it outright, afraid that the Four Great Martial Arts Schools wouldn''t believe him.

    Alright then.

    It seems, as long as he was careful, they couldn''t trace it back to him.

    Chen Sansi disposed of the Martial Arts Academy Disciple''s body and headed home down the mountain.

    During this period, he hadn''t stopped running up and down the mountain, continuously practicing his skills.

    [Skill: Concealment (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 405/1000]

    After dinner at night.

    Chen Sansi began perusing the Medical Books he had acquired from Medicine Valley.

    There were several volumes of Medical Books.

    From basic theories, to treating various diseases, to different medicine forms, including those needed for martial arts practice, all were recorded.

    Just reading the books would only improve his reading proficiency.

    [Skill: Reading (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: (395/800)]

    "It seems I need to learn a new skill."

    Although the effects of Spiritual Grain were good, the metabolism of the meridian toxins was slow, and the usage of various supplements and medicine baths couldn''t be stopped.

    Fortunately, there was a Medical Officer in the military, merely requiring some time to learn.

    Speaking of time.

    The assessment period for new recruits ends tomorrow.

    I wonder how many among the hundred will prove truly useful.

 Chapter 72 Refining Organ Martial Artist

    Military roll call.

    At the Martial Arts Arena.

    Chen Sansi began to assess the progress.

    "Those who have cultivated Qi-Blood, step forward!"

    Silence.

    "..."

    Chen Sansi changed his approach, "Those who have mastered spear technique and Pile Work, step forward!"

    This time.

    Eighteen people stepped out of the ranks.

    Actually more than what Chen Sansi had anticipated.

    The rest were naturally Array Soldiers.

    Since most of them were very young, there was no one who hadn''t learned Pile Work.

    Among these people, the one with the best talent turned out to be Wu Da.

    Chen Sansi predicted he would be the first to cultivate Qi-Blood.

    Zhuang Yi came next.

    As for Zhao Qiao, he was average, but his archery was good. His honesty and loyalty gave him an edge, and he could be put to other uses in the future.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Besides them.

    Zhu Tong and Wang Li, thanks to the ample supply of medicinal materials in the garrison, had also crossed the threshold into proficiently practicing the Blood Refining Technique.

    Logically, they would need to achieve a small aplishment before they could be promoted to small g.

    But Chen Sansi was seriously short on manpower, so he chose some who theoretically would reach that state the soonest and temporarily assigned them the responsibilities of a small g, though without the actual position.

    "Sir, what about me?"

    Seeing others being appointed "official" positions, Xu Wencai couldn''t sit still and shamelessly edged closer.

    "Old Xu."

    Chen Sansi looked at him, "I don''t seem to have any positions to give you for now."

    "I don''t want a position."

    Xu Wencai said with a smile, "Just find me something to do. I can help Sir with training the military formations, supervising their proper cultivation, and meanwhile, I can n how to minimize losses next year."

    "Agreed."

    Chen Sansi didn''t stop him.

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (entry-level)]

    [Progress: 85/500]

    [Utility: Mainstay]

    Through experimentation, he found that when he let Zhu Tong and others help teach martial arts, his proficiency would also rise, possibly because they were under hismand.

    But the increase wasn''t as much as when he taught personally.

    Still, it was akin to gaining experience passively; why not do it?

    "You''ll see, Sir!"

    Xu Wencai said, "I will surely train their basicbat formations to first-rate standards!"

    The new recruits'' assessment period ended.

    Next, Chen Sansi should also have a task, whether it''s defense or farming.

    If it''s farming, a lot of misceneous tasks would need to be done.

    Patrolling the city and the like would be best, to have more time for training.

    "Hummm¡ª"

    The bugle sounded.

    Lately, Xiang Tingchun had been giving speeches frequently, and everyone had grown ustomed to it.

    Almost a thousand soldiers quickly gathered in the Martial Arts Arena.

    Ji Guangxian, with his personal guard, also stepped onto the high tform and started speaking in a loud voice:

    "My warriors, you have worked hard.

    "As a civil servant, I have no right to meddle in military affairs, so you don''t need to be nervous. I am only here to express my care for you all, and also, to bring a generous gift.

    "Bring it up!"

    Dozens of jars of liquor were carried onto the high tform.

    "Do you know what this is?"

    Ji Guangxian introduced, "This is a medicinal wine brewed from the blood of the Exotic Beast, the Toothed Tiger.

    "This is specifically for bone training martial artists. Whether taken internally or applied externally, it can be said to improve cultivation by leaps and bounds.

    "Let alone An Ding Prefecture, even the entire Yunzhou does not have this kind of Exotic Beast to hunt, hence it is extremely precious and indeed priceless.

    "These were sent over from the Capital by Mr. Gao of the Military Department, all the way over thousands of miles.

    "Mr. Gao said that the court is short on troops and cannot send more reinforcements, but they will never let the soldiers go unrewarded for their service. That is why he sent these medicinal wines over thousands of miles.

    "In the future, all warriors will be able to exchange for it with military merits!"

    Chen Sansi had never heard of this medicinal wine.

    However, he saw that the other householders were very excited.

    It indeed seemed to be of extraordinary value.

    No wonder it''s not for sale.

    This military merit isn''t something that can be obtained in a short while.

    Luckily, Chen Sansi had Spiritual Grain to consume, so he was not in a hurry.

    Come to think of it.

    This Magistrate Ji Guangxian must be rolling in wealth!

    Ever since the raid on Medicine Valley a few days ago, Chen Sansi suddenly felt that hunting was a bit unexciting.

    How much silver could one earn after all the effort of drilling through deep forests and mountains?

    How could thatpare to the wealth of those lords?

    However, the guards that Ji Guangxian brought were not few, and it was unknown what their highest level was.

    After all, he was a magistrate; it was very possible that a Refining Organ Martial Artist was among his entourage.

    "Old Chen!"

    Householder Xiong came over, "Households Commander Xiang is calling for you."

    He was already being addressed as Old Chen, regardless of the fact that he was much younger than them.

    He arrived at the Central Army Tent.

    Apart from Xiang Tingchun and Luo Dongquan, there were two unfamiliar civil servants present.

    "Shanshi, you havepleted the process for your promotion to Householder."

    Xiang Tingchun spoke, "These two are officials from the Military Selection Department."

    "I have seen the two officials."

    Chen Sansi cooperated with the officials for identity verification.

    Apart from the appointment letter, there was also a brand new set of official robes and armor.

    A Householder is a Sixth Rank military officer, wearing a blue official robe embellished with images of leopards.

    Chen Sansi couldn''t help but reflect, "I guess I''ve be a so-called ''dressed beast'' now."

    But in the military, opportunities to wear official robes were few, as armor was the moremon attire.

    The armor was still cloth armor, but much more exquisite, including a new iron helmet, and crucial parts reinforced with thick iron tes, considerably increasing its defensive power.

    It wasn''t just Chen Sansi who had been promoted.

    Luo Dongquan had also been promoted to Deputy Thousand Households, a position from the Secondary Fifth Rank.

    From the conversation of the officials from the Ministry of Personnel, it could be determined that this person had achieved Refining Internal Organs.

    That is to say, there were now two Refining Organ Martial Artists in the garrison.

    "Shanshi, have the men under yourmandpleted their assessment period yet?"

    Xiang Tingchun said, "In two days, you''ll rece Zhao Kang, taking over the responsibility of lookout duty at the Great Wall with your troops."

    The duties of the soldiers stationed at the garrison involved farming and guard duty.

    Guard duty further included patrolling the city and border defense.

    Border defense naturally meant keeping watch on the Great Wall, which was rtively taxing as it often required standing guard at night.

    However, there hadn''t been any incidents involving barbarian cavalry raids along the Po Yang border in over a decade, so it would likely be rather leisurely.

    For Chen Sansi, it was just another ce to practice martial arts.

    He sped his fist and replied, "Your subordinate acknowledges themand."

    "Shanshi,e with me."

    Xiang Tingchun took him to an empty space, "Pick up your fifteen-stone bow, and shoot an arrow at me."

    The sudden request caught Chen Sansi off guard.

    "No worries."

    Xiang Tingchunughed heartily, "Shoot if I tell you to shoot."

    "Alright."

    Chen Sansi was also curious how his archery would fare against a Refining Organ Martial Artist.

    He didn''t hesitate and drew the bow to shoot in one breath.

    An Armor-piercing Arrow flew through the air!

    "ng¡ª¡ª"

    A sh of de light abruptly appeared.

    Suddenly, the He Miao de that hung at Xiang Tingchun''s waist was in his hand, and the iing arrow had been split in two.

    Chen Sansi was mentally prepared, but his expression still grew serious.

    The fact that the other man let him shoot meant he was sure there was no danger.

    He had thought the target would dodge, but unexpectedly¡­

    This was the first time that Chen Sansi had failed to hit the target since he began practicing archery.

    "I am at Refining organs small sess,"

    Xiang Tingchun slowly slid the de back into its sheath and exined solemnly, "Refining Organ Martial Artists have greatly enhanced senses, reflexes, and explosive power. Your arrows will find it hard to hit them. Unless you shoot fast enough that they can''t possibly react in time!"

    Chen Sansi bowed, "Thank you, Lord Thousand Households, for the guidance."

    "Hmm, no need to be so formal with me."

    Xiang Tingchun folded his arms behind his back, "I called you over mainly because I have something to say.

    "The new Magistrate Ji has a deep connection with the Song Family and might hold some opinions about you.

    "In a way, I''ve involved you in this matter.

    "I''ve spoken on your behalf, but it would still be best if you visited him personally to offer your apologies, to prioritize peace.

    "He currently resides in thergest residence on Ningfeng Road in the county town, very easy to find.

    "Oh yes, and he has Refining Organ Martial Artist guards, though they are just at the initial stage of Refining Organs."

    He left leisurely after dropping these words.

    Chen Sansi quickly grasped the implications.

    This was not about asking him to apologize; it was information on how to kill Ji Guangxian!

    First, he was reminded that it''s difficult to kill a Refining Organ Martial Artist with an arrow, then he was given the home address, andstly, a considerate hint that the guard was a Refining Organ Martial Artist was given, suggesting he strike when the Magistrate is alone.

    It was aplete set of assassination intelligence.

    It seemed that Xiang Tingchun and the one surnamed Ji weren''t on the best of terms.

    ''This is quite interesting.''

    We''ll see how things go.

    If Chen Sansi was to kill, he would take out the guard as well, leaving no loose ends.

    And Xiang Tingchun was definitely not a man to be trusted!

    It would be better to strike after his own power had been enhanced.

    It looked like he would need to devote more time to improving not just his cultivation but also his archery!

    And his medical skills.

    He had hoarded a bunch of medicines without knowing how to use them.

    With that in mind, Chen Sansi headed to the pharmacy to find Medical Officer Jiang.

 Chapter 73 Sun Li

    "Do you want to learn medical skills?"

    "Yes."

    Chen Sansi said, "Medicinal materials are too expensive to buy, and I often go hunting in the mountains, so if I learn a bit, I can gather herbs and brew medicine myself, saving silver coins."

    "Your thinking is quite idealistic."

    The Medical Officer teased, "Ny-nine percent of the medicinal materials are in the hands of the Martial Arts Hall. Where are you going to find so many wild herbs for yourself? But since you want to learn, I have no objections, just consider it taking on another apprentice to do some work."

    "Liu Zi, you first teach Mr. Chen how to identify medicinal materials and exin their uses properly."

    "No problem."

    Liu Zi was the Medical Officer''s son, a sessor to his father''s profession and also a physician himself.

    Many of the positions in the garrison were hereditary.

    "Mr. Chen, this herb is called Horse Blood Grass, and it has a blood-nourishing effect, but¡­"

    Liu Zi exined patiently.

    The herbs before him quickly matched up with the medical books Chen Sansi had seen.

    A panel appeared.

    [Skill: Medical Skill. Mortal (Not Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 0/100]

    [Utility: None for now]

    Mortal?

    Could there also be "Immortal"?

    Chen Sansi was somewhat puzzled.

    All the signs now indicated.

    This world was definitely not a pure Martial Arts world; it was highly probable that immortals existed as well.

    That being the case,

    it made sense that Great Ancestor Cao Xie alone faced more than two thousand troops.

    But new questions arose.

    Why had no such impressive person appeared since then?

    And,

    when the Old Emperor imed to have dreamed of an immortal who gave him the seeds of Spiritual Grain, didn''t he give him the method to use them? There was still a need to send someone to investigate in Po Yang County City.

    Was there a connection between the Immortal Treasure in the hands of the barbarian tribes and the immortal the Old Emperor had dreamed of?

    It seems that the barbarians have be bolder in recent years because they have treasures in their possession!

    Having an Immortal Treasure could indeed create arge number of high-level martial artists.

    After all, Spiritual Grain was everywhere.

    As formp oil,

    only a little was needed to ignite.

    Then, add a lot of kindling to maintain the me, without the need to continue usingmp oil.

    The box in his possession wouldst a long time.

    "In the future, I can select some subordinates with good talent, who are worth nurturing, to secretly feed them Spiritual Grain."

    "Together withmanding soldiers'' skill, in a few years, I will be able to build my own elite force!"

    "Unfortunately! The materials are iplete."

    "If I had the Immortal Form and a container that could withstand the temperature,bined with my medical practice skills."

    "Could I perhaps seek the longevity that the Emperor desires?"

    The road is long and obstructed!

    Chen Sansi sighed deeply.

    All these were very distant matters; right now, it was still more urgent to improve his cultivation and prepare for war.

    To be frank,

    the primary goal was to survive this war.

    Otherwise, whatever Immortal Treasure, whatever Selected Point, all would be meaningless!

    Helping in the pharmacy until evening, his proficiency increased significantly.

    [Skill: Medical Skill. Mortal (Not Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 35/100]

    It was about time, so Chen Sansi packed up his things to go home.

    "I''m out of money!"

    He was utterly penniless.

    The toxin in the meridians from the Spiritual Grain and the residue from the supplemental medicines were two different things that could be handled simultaneously.

    Unfortunately, he really had no money.

    He met the Sun Li siblings just at the entrance to the barracks; they seemed to have just met with Xiang Tingchun and neither looked in good spirits.

    "Senior Sister!"

    Chen Sansi greeted, "Just in time to have dinner at my ce."

    At the dinner table,

    Sun Li barely had the appetite to lift her chopsticks, "Little junior brother, what do you think about the Household''s deployment of troops?"

    "I have no particr opinion."n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Even if Chen Sansi had an opinion, it wouldn''t matter, "The order was issued by the Ministry of War, and I can only obey."

    "Junior apprentice-brother has the right attitude, but..."

    Sun Li said displeased, "This battle is pointless. The main battlefield is clearly on the Northwest border, in the three states. The rest of the ces just need to hold their cities. Why create unnecessary problems?"

    "With just a word from the Crown Prince, wouldn''t everyone at the bottom scramble to seize the opportunity?"

    As Sun Buqi picked at his rice, his voice was muffled, "If we''re going to fight, then let''s fight. It''s not like we haven''t fought battles before."

    Sun Li ignored him and looked towards the kitchen, "Sister Xin Lan, stop being busy ande eat with us."

    In these days.

    She and Gu Xin had gotten along very well.

    Don''t be fooled by Sun Li''s fierce saber skills, her efficient and heroic demeanor, or the appearance of a strong woman on the surface.

    In fact, she was actually quite interested in embroidery and the like.

    In her spare time, she often did needlework with Sister Lan and chatted about household affairs.

    It''s just that her skills were somewhatcking.

    Chen Sansi had once seen her work, where she held up an embroidered duck but insisted it was a pair of mandarin ducks...

    Only Gu Xin was both clever and skilled with her hands, prompting Sun Li to seek her guidance even more.

    Plus, since Gu was a few years older, she had taken the initiative to address her as sister, without any air of being the daughter of the Governor Mansion.

    And Sun Buqi never made others feel as if he was above them.

    From this, it was clear the Sun family had excellent teaching and family values.

    "Sister Xin Lan."

    Sun Li spoke with concern, "What crime did your familymit in the Capital City to be exiled to the border, and to have fallen into the hands of traffickers?"

    The Capital City?

    Chen Sansi had always known that Gu Xin was not a country girl.

    But her specific background was unclear.

    His father had taken a liking to her at first sight because of her attractive appearance and fair skin.

    Country children had to work in the fields from a young age; how could they maintain fair skin?

    He had not expected she was from the Capital City.

    Out of respect, since she never mentioned it, he never asked.

    He guessed that Sun Li must have looked into his background and did a check on Sister Lan along the way.

    "Little Sister Li, I was too young at that time to remember," replied Gu Xin, pursing her lips, "Please let bygones be bygones. As a mere convicted''s descendant, I was fortunate to be saved by your father and brought to his home to retain some dignity in living..."

    "It was presumptuous of me."

    Sun Li apologized, "If Sister Xin Lan doesn''t wish to talk about it, I definitely won''t ask again."

    "Sister, I should head back to the inn first."

    Now full from eating and drinking, Sun Buqi put down his chopsticks.

    He and his sister had a clear division ofbor: one was responsible for watching the city''s Martial Arts Hall, and the other was responsible for keeping an eye on the military officers'' movements.

    After dinner.

    Chen Sansi dared not ck off at all. After drinking a bowl of Replenishing Essence Soup, he prepared to practice with his spear.

    "Junior apprentice-brother is still drinking Replenishing Essence Soup?"

    Seeing that he was short on funds, Sun Li took out a silver note, "I didn''t bring much money with me when I left home, but here''s three hundred taels. You can use it for now, it shouldst you a while."

    "Isn''t this inappropriate?"

    Chen Sansi said as he epted the silver note.

    Cultivation levels rte directly to survival.

    He couldn''t afford to be pretentious.

    With these three hundred taels, he could continue to improve his cultivation seamlessly and rapidly.

    "Go ahead and practice."

    Sun Li stood up, ready to join Sister Lan in the bedroom to study women''s needlework.

    "Wait, sister."

    "Tonight, I still want to trouble you," he said.

    "ng ng ng ng ng¡ª"

    Loud metallic shing sounds resonated in the courtyard.

    Just as he had spected.

    Sparring indeed helped absorb the Spiritual Grain in the meridians, but it was still not enough.

    Realbat was necessary.

    To put it inly, it meant killing people, preferably inrge numbers.

    Unfortunately, where could one find so many people to kill?

    Soon, it was the day to carry out the official duties.

    Chen Sansi arrived early at the barracks to report, and then, led by Zhao Kang, he took over a hundred men and departed.

    From today forth, he would be responsible for guarding the Great Wall in Po Yang County.

 Chapter 74 Great Wall

    Great Wall.

    It was of utmost importance for any ancient regime.

    In the Central ins, the greatest enemy was the ferocious nomadic tribes from the grasnds.

    Before the Great Wall was built, incursions by barbarian cavalry into the south to plunder were frequent every year.

    And since these were small-scale cavalry raids with high mobility, they would typically raid and kill and then leave, leaving the defenders powerless.

    Until the Great Wall arose, blocking the trampling of horse hooves.

    The nomads would need to pay a huge cost if they wanted to raid.

    They either had to siege or cross mountains and ridges on foot.

    The former required a loss of lives, while thetter, even if loot was obtained, meant being pursued and killed without the boost of warhorses.

    So, out of necessity, the originally scattered tribes of the grasnds also began to unite gradually, eventually forming several powerful alliances to collectively oppose the states of the Central ins.

    Furthermore,

    Contrary to what many people believe,

    the Great Wall was not a drain on resources but rather a significant saving on defense spending.

    Chen Sansi once read in "Dasheng Records" that during the Kaiyuan Period, an official calcted an ount for the Emperor.

    The details were tooplicated, but in the end, it turned out thatpared to the cost of maintaining arge number of soldiers for defense, building the Great Wall was ten times more cost-effective.

    The Po Yang territory is surrounded by mountains and the terrain is rugged.

    The area where cavalry andrge forces could advance is limited to around 200 li, and the Great Wall just covers this range.

    Not far north of the Thousand Households outpost, one could see a structure resembling a giant python.

    "Households Commander Chen, you''ve worked hard."

    Zhao Kang exined the work content, "In ten days, the men from Households Commander Feng wille to switch duty, and only then can you go back to rest."

    From now on, the three of them, each amander of a hundred households, would take turns being responsible for the watch duties on the Great Wall.

    Over a hundred people started to take over the changing of the guard.

    Just changing guard was a major operation, so it was done every ten days to improve efficiency.

    Chen Sansi rode his White Swan Horse, patrolling along the Great Wall.

    When the handover finished, he too climbed up to the top of the wall via the staircase.

    The Great Wall was about seven meters high, with a base width of six meters and a top width of five to six meters.

    Every ten li, there would be a signal tower, and each signal tower would be manned by five soldiers.

    Two hundred li of the Great Wall was just enough for the manpower of a hundred households.

    It might seem that a distance this long, manned by just a hundred people, would be too few, but in reality, it waspletely sufficient.

    The main purpose of the Great Wall was to stop war horses, slow down attacks, and transmit information.

    Once the enemy was spotted, a signal fire would be lit immediately.

    Upon the rise of the warning smoke, the entire force of Po Yang Thousand Households would react at the fastest speed, and the entire process would not exceed the time it takes half an incense stick to burn.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Additionally, this ce was not the main battlefield, and the barbarian tribes outside the city were not populous, so the situation was generally stable.

    Since it was the first day, Zhao Kang also left experienced soldiers at each signal tower to pass on their knowledge, exining the lookout points to pay attention to and the various uses of signal fires.

    Signal fires were not just about lighting a beacon and being done with it.

    It was aplete intelligence system.

    With four types of signal equipment¡ªbeacon, beacon table, beacon gourd, and beacon wood¡ªand four kinds of signals using fire, light, smoke, and gs, along withplexbinations, they were able to convey detailed intelligence.

    For example, how many enemy forces were attacking, from which position, and so on...

    Seeing it in books versus seeing it in real life waspletely different.

    "Ten days."

    "For the next ten days, we''ll be here in one go."

    As a leader, Chen Sansi had to set an example and could not ck off.

    But he wouldn''t waste time either.

    Inside a watchtower, the soldiers took turns resting.

    Therefore, Chen Sansi was on watch all night, and during the day, he took advantage of resting hours to ride back to camp and help out in the pharmacy. As for sleep, he only slept three to four hours a day, but fortunately, with the spirit provided by [Reading], he could withstand it.

    After ten days.

    Chen Sansi had nearly spent the three hundred silver coins given by his senior sister, and with the potent effects of Spiritual Grain, his proficiency approached mastery in the Bone Strengthening Skill!

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear - Entry Level]

    [Progress: 410/500]

    "And that''s under circumstances where I can''t quickly neutralize the toxin of Spiritual Grain."

    "If there were actualbat, progress could be even faster!"

    And there''s no need to worry about progress being too fast and noticeable to others.

    Chen Sansi specifically inquired about it.

    Just within the Eight Camps, there were two he knew of who were advancing faster than him.

    The first, was Supervisor Sun.

    Second, was the third son of Lord Governor Sun who had passed away.

    The remaining ones certainly exist, needing some free time to ask Sun Li to find out.

    Besides the Eight Camps, the Capital City definitely has many, and so do the major powers.

    So to say.

    The pace at which one''s cultivation increases was indeed astonishing, but still within the realm of genius, and coupled with being mistaken for the Nine Dragon Body, it waspletely usible.

    For now, there was no need to go to great lengths to conceal one''s cultivation level.

    Feeling rapid progress wasrgely because the Po Yang territory was too remote.

    "ng!"

    Chen Sansi exhaled deeply and put down the long spear in his hand.

    Another night on watch, the East brightening with the white of dawn.

    He stood atop the city wall, gazing into the distance.

    These ten days had passed very peacefully.

    Not a single figure had appeared on the grasnds.

    He actually hoped that small groups of cavalry would attack, so as to hone his spear technique inbat and aid the absorption of the energy from the Spiritual Grain.

    But such things could not be forced.

    Fortunately, with such long periods of strenuous effort, his medical skill was about to reach entry-level. Eating more Supplemental Medicines would do just as well.

    5 a.m. to 7 a.m.

    Households Commander Feng arrived on time to change guard.

    Chen Sansi rode back to camp on the White Swan Horse along with the other soldiers.

    Lately, riding the horse back and forth and feeding it personally was also improving his proficiency; his Horse Control skill was quickly approaching the next stage.

    [Skill: Horse Control (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: (150/200)]

    He did wonder, after all, a horse was just transportation, how much further could it be improved.

    Upon returning to the military camp, Chen Sansi headed straight for the pharmacy, but at the entrance to the camp, he encountered a familiar figure.

    Wang Zhi had returned from visiting rtives in the Prefecture City.

    "Stony."

    Wang Zhi, grinning with his teeth bared, came over cheerfully: "How have things been recently? I mean, which Selection Officer visited?"

    "The young master and daughter of Lord Governor Sun."

    Chen Sansi dismounted: "Right, Miss Sun was also looking for you."

    "They..."

    Wang Zhi tentatively asked: "What did they say?"

    "Miss Sun said she doesn''t know you. Hundred Households Wang, have you changed your name?"

    Chen Sansi said, "You asked me to plead on your behalf, but you should at least tell me what you did in the past, right?"

    "I..."

    Wang Zhi looked troubled and said with a bitter smile: "Stony, I''ve changed my mind. You don''t have to speak for me anymore. If you see Lord Governor Sunter, don''t mention me; just say the Cultivation Technique was found by you on the street."

    Having said this, he walked away as though fleeing.

    "?"

    Chen Sansi found it all very bewildering.

    So afraid of the Sun Li siblings?

    If Wang Zhi truly had a serious crime, he wouldn''t be alive to this day.

    It didn''t make sense.

    Unable to figure it out, he stopped thinking about it and headed straight for the pharmacy.

    "Households Commander Chen really doesn''t rest at all."

    The Medical Officer Jiang found it frightening.

    This young man didn''t seem afraid of working himself to death.

    "I dare not rest."

    Chen Sansi, already well-acquainted with the pharmacy, started to help sort the medicinal herbs and assisted with adding water to decoct medicines for the military officers.

    He also possessed an eidetic memory.

    Any medicinal herb that had appeared in the pharmacy, its utility and medicinal properties were all engraved in his mind; any Supplemental Medicine that had been decocted in the pharmacy, he had firmly memorized the forms and secrets.

    Finally.

    The panel surfaced.

    [Skill: Medical Skill - Mortal (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 0/500]

    [Utility: Mastery of medicinal principles, Recognize Medicine Upon Sight]

    [Recognize Medicine Upon Sight: For ordinary medicines, seeing them would enable him to decipher the form]

 Chapter 75 Xuanwu Camp Commander

    ```

    Deciphering forms?

    Indeed, a valuable skill.

    However, it seems temporarily unnecessary.

    At least within the boundaries of Po Yang County, there isn''t much talk of special forms.

    Most pharmacies simply provide the prescribed doses of herbs, which people take home to boil with water.

    But since martial arts secret manuals are often jealously guarded, it''s certain that truly advanced medicinal recipes are also treated as family treasures and hidden away.

    So just because they''re not needed now doesn''t mean they won''t be useful in the future.

    It''s still a useful skill to have.

    At this moment, as Chen Sansi watched the y pots on the stove, he saw not merely dark liquids within them but detailed forms.

    He knew exactly how much of each herb was needed, whether it be fresh or dried, and the required age of the nts, down to the smallest measurement.

    Fortunately, the silver that Senior Sister Sun gave him has also been almost spent.

    Practicing martial arts is truly like a bottomless pit when ites to resources.

    Going forward, procuring my own herbal materials and preparing them myself is the long-term n.

    "Huff..."

    After running back and forth for ten days, saying I''m not tired would be impossible.

    Finally achieving my phase goals, Chen Sansi let out a long sigh of relief and rode his White Swan Horse back home.

    Pushing open the door to his house, he saw no one around.

    He guessed she might be doing needlework in the bedroom.

    Indeed.

    And Sun Li was there as well.

    Having heard the noise in advance, she had already put everything away: "Little junior brother, you don''t even announce yourself when you enter."

    Chen Sansi said, "Please forgive me, Senior Sister Sun, I didn''t know you were here."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Hmm."

    Sun Li suddenly realized that she was in someone else''s home: "Little junior brother, you''ve been working hard and dutiful recently, I won''t disturb your rest."

    She picked up the de that was ced by the table and took her leave with sped hands.

    "Brother Shi, look how dusty and dirty you''ve gotten."

    Gu Xin was packing up her needlework tools: "I''ll go and prepare something for you to eat first."

    "Good."

    Chen Sansi curiously asked, "What were you two embroidering?"

    He opened the storage box and found it contained handkerchiefs, embroidered shoes, purse bags, and the like.

    There were also a few where the threads were a mess and the patterns distorted.

    "Li actually has a tough life too," Gu Xin said softly. "She told me she never liked to practice martial arts, but with no brothers at home and a desire to relieve her father''s worries, she had no choice but to take up the de."

    "Is that so."

    Chen Sansi was different.

    Practicing martial arts was tiring, but he genuinely enjoyed the feeling of improving himself.

    He stretched out his arms for Sister Lan to help him remove his armor.

    Then, without even bothering to take off his underclothes, hey down on the bed and fell asleep.

    He slept straight through until the next day dawned.

    In the morning, after dealing with the military camp''s affairs, Chen Sansi headed to the old house in Yanbian Vige to gather all of his battle spoils, then shouldered them and went back up the mountain.

    Boiling medicines at home, even with the chimney covered, would let scents drift far; it was definitely not an option.

    A secluded spot was necessary.

    Luckily, Tiger Head Mountain was vast and boundless, with many secluded and deste ces.

    Chen Sansi soon found a deep cave on the cliffside of a barren mountain.

    With many stones and scant vegetation around, there was essentially no game or nts, so people rarely came by, and the cave was halfway up the cliff, making it quite concealed.

    After ensuring there were no issues, he began organizing his things.

    "All these herbs together must be worth several thousands of silver!"

    "Aside from the main ingredients for Blood Replenishing Soup and Replenishing Essence Soup, there are also plenty of materials for Bone Nourishing Soup and Medicine Bath."

    "Enough for a month''s use!"

    "And even if they''re used up, it doesn''t matter, I can always quietly borrow some from the masters'' homes!"

    "After all, I won''t be earning money through hardbor anymore."

    "Unfortunately, Blood Replenishing Soup and Replenishing Essence Soup have little utility for me now, I''ll wait for the right moment to use them."

    Chen Sansi spread out his wares and began mixing the medicinal ingredients.

    He prepared ten doses each of Bone Nourishing Soup and Medicine Bath first and thenmenced his solitary cultivation in the cave.

    ```

    ```

    It wasn''t until evening approached that he descended the mountain and returned home, conveniently bringing back a goat and pigeon to prepare for dinner.

    "What''s that noise?"

    From a distance, Chen Sansi could hear the sounds ofmotion and fightinging from the military settlement.

    And it sounded all too familiar.

    "Wang Zhi, Sun Buqi?!"

    He hurriedly dropped the game in front of his house and rushed over to check the situation.

    In front of a residence, Sun Buqi was holding a long spear, blocking the entrance, refusing to let the portly armored military officer in front of him enter.

    He usually lookedzy and ck, but now his eyes were fierce, burning with anger, and even his voice was slightly trembling, "Well done, Tang Ruoshan! I thought you were dead! Turns out, you''re hiding here, clinging to life!"

    "This young master..."

    Wang Zhi, also deviating from his usual sly,zy, and greedy demeanor, said anxiously, "Could you have mistaken me for someone else? My name is Wang Zhi, not Tang Ruoshan."

    "Bullshit!"

    Sun Buqi said through gritted teeth, "Don''t think I couldn''t recognize you just because you''ve put on some weight; even if you were burned to ashes, I would still know you. Give back my brother''s life!"

    Before his words had even finished, his long spear had already thrust forward.

    The spear was incredibly swift and powerful, extraordinary.

    Wang Zhi dared not look directly at the opponent, only drawing out his slender Mo de and cing it horizontally in front of him, effortlessly blocking the bone training martial artist''s strike, "Young master, you... you really have the wrong person!"

    "Die!"

    Sun Buqi''s spear technique was as swift as the wind and fast as lightning, turning into a violent storm lunging at the other party.

    But each thrust was easily parried by Wang Zhi.

    Clearly, although both were bone training martial artists, their strengths were not on the same level.

    Even though Wang Zhi never countered and only defended, Sun Buqi''s Qi-Blood was gradually depleting, and his speed was noticeably slowing.

    At that moment, he regretted not practicing his martial arts well, unable to kill the detestable person in front of him.

    "Tang Ruoshan! You... you coward!"

    "Fifteen years have passed; don''t you even dare to admit your own name now?"

    "Hiding in a ce like this, what''s the point of living?!"

    Hearing these words,

    Wang Zhi''s expression froze for a moment, then with a "ng" he dropped the Mo de from his hand.

    He finally admitted, "Junior brother, kill me if you must."

    Having said that, he closed his eyes, truly no longer defending himself.

    "Good, I will kill you!"

    Sun Buqi raised his spear to thrust at the throat.

    Just as Chen Sansi was about to intervene, another figure in red, alerted by themotion, arrived.

    "Stop!"

    "Sister?"

    Sun Buqi abruptly stopped the long spear that was already thrusting forward, "Sister, look who this is?!"

    "I know."

    Sun Li had already guessed it.

    Her cold gaze turned to Wang Zhi, "Tang Ruoshan, long time no see."

    "Junior sister..."

    Upon seeing her, Wang Zhi knelt down, "You and junior brother, take this dog''s life of mine."

    Sun Li''s face was expressionless, "Keep your life, and die on the battlefielde spring. Buqi,e with me."

    "Sister?"

    "I told you toe!"

    "Hmph!"

    Only then did Sun Buqi retrieve his spear and leave with his sister.

    Meanwhile, Wang Zhi knelt on the ground, not getting up for a long time.

    There was no need to ask.

    Chen Sansi already had a rough idea about the cause of this farce.

    Sun Buqi mentioned something that happened fifteen years ago, and the death of his third brother.

    Fifteen years ago was the fifty-seventh year of Longqing.

    That year, a fierce battle broke out between the Eight Camps and Nanxu Country at Kangning Prefecture.

    The ck Tortoise Camp was entirely wiped out during the battle.

    The Main General at the time was Tang Ruoshan.

    The Deputy General was Sun Buhui.

    ```

 Chapter 76 Above Martial Saint

    "Are you alright?"

    After waiting for a while, Chen Sansi stepped forward and helped Fatty Wang to his feet.

    "Did you hear everything?"

    With a dazed expression, Wang Zhi responded, "Yes, it was I who caused the death of my junior and the soldiers..."

    "Then howe you haven''t lost your head?"

    Chen Sansi asked.

    If it was a major blunder inmanding that led to the annihtion of an entire Elite Camp, the Main General would definitely be sentenced to death.

    "..."

    Wang Zhi kept quiet for a long time before finally speaking in a hoarse voice, "I had no choice at the time, do you understand? I had no choice."

    He knelt back down to the ground and slumped sitting.

    "In the fifty-seventh year of Longqing,

    "Under the instigation of Yan Liang and others, the court summoned the Lord Governor back to the Capital City under false charges and threw him into the Imperial Prison.

    "That same year,

    "Nanxu Countryunched arge-scale invasion.

    "The Eight Camps were deployed to defend and counterattack.

    "My real name is Tang Ruoshan, and I was the Xuanwu Camp Commander at the time.

    "However, the defeat wasn''t due to my mimand.

    "At that time, Nanxu Country had already seized many strategic fortresses, including Lingchuan Prefecture.

    "If we didn''t find a way to swiftly take back Lingchuan Prefecture, once Nanxu Country stabilized its footing, the south would be essentially lost.

    "But Lingchuan Prefecture has treacherous terrain, easy to defend but hard to attack.

    "The best strategy was to first breach through Kangning Prefecture on the eastern side.

    "But such a breach was not easy to create.

    "The ideal approach was to wait for the rest of the Imperial Army to arrive as reinforcements andunch a fierce attack with several times the manpower.

    "But they didn''t move!"

    Wang Zhi became agitated: "The Emperor''s Imperial Army was already assembled, yet they deliberately didn''t set out towards Kangning Prefecture, why do you think that was?"

    "They were waiting for you to be killed."

    Chen Sansi provided the answer.

    "Exactly!"

    Wang Zhi spoke angrily, "The court wanted to use this opportunity to weaken the power of the Eight Camps, and it would be better still if a few generals died, making it easier for others to take over in the future!

    "The Supervisor confined in the Imperial Prison was used as a hostage to threaten us!

    "If we disobeyed and dyed until the Imperial Army had no choice but to intervene, it would only confirm the disloyalty of the Eight Camps, and what end would our master meet? The Eight Camps would surely be targeted for slow purge.

    "Conversely, if the Eight Camps stood up and showed loyalty at this time, willing to lead the charge for the Imperial Army, it would prove that we were still under the control of the court, maybe then our master and the others could find a way to survive.

    "I saw that very clearly.

    "And it wasn''t enough just to use flesh and blood to storm the city for the Imperial Army, there had to be one more person!"

    Chen Sansi''s brow furrowed slightly, "Third Young Master?"

    Wang Zhi did not answer directly but instead spoke in a lower tone:

    "Do you know when the Eight Camps were established?

    "Seventy-two years ago, from the first year of Longqing, the year the current Emperor ascended the throne!

    "Our master knew the Emperor since they were young, being a confidant within the hearts of the Emperor, otherwise, how could he have been granted the power to recruit troops independently?

    "Even the fact that themon people called the Eight Camps the ''Sun Family Army,'' the Emperor tolerated it.

    "Guess why, specifically in the fifty-seventh year of Longqing, he could no longer tolerate it?

    "Because a genius emerged from the Sun Family.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Our master had a total of five children.

    "The oldest and the second, died early in battles, and even if they were alive, their talents were mediocre; they would not have made significant strides in the path of Martial Arts.

    "But the third, Sun Buhui, was a genius.

    "Practicing Martial Arts for less than four years, he experienced countless battles, undefeated in all, highly revered in the military.

    "In the past, the Emperor would tolerate the existence of a ''Sun Family Army'' because he knew this situation would eventually end.

    "Once our master retired or passed away, the court would straightforwardly gain a corps of elite troops, a perfectly advantageous arrangement, who wouldn''t be pleased with that?

    "However, the emergence of Sun Buhui changed everything.

    "Buhui, exceptionally talented and highly ambitious, even dered that he would take over the Eight Camps in the future.

    "This... touched the Emperor''s raw nerve.

    "For the Great Sheng Dynasty, having a Supervisor like Sun was an asset, a model of harmonious monarch-subject rtions.

    "But if the Sun family were to produce another Governor, the nature of the matter would changepletely."

    "By then, the Eight Camps would truly be the ''Sun Family Army,'' and the Sun family would no longer just be Sealed Border Governors but akin to a princely state of a different surname."

    "The court, how could it possibly allow such a thing to happen?"

    "And yet all the generals in the Eight Camps are very supportive of him."

    "How could the Emperor allow this situation to ur?"

    "Thus, he took advantage of a major court case to incarcerate Lord Governor Sun in the Imperial Prison."

    So that was it.

    From Chen Sansi''s perspective, there were only two solutions in this situation.

    First, Lord Governor Sun dies, and the Sun family is stripped of military power, at least ced under house arrest."

    Second, Sun Buhui dies."

    Once again, Wang Zhi''s voice came to his ears.

    "But after all, I watched my junior brother grow up, how could I bear to see him die?"

    "I thought of many ways, even considered rebelling."

    "But with the master detained in the Imperial Prison, if we acted, he would be the first to die."

    "Moreover, at that time, there was no second Martial Saint in the Eight Camps, it was simply not possible to win."

    "In the end, I could only lead my junior brother Sun Buhui to attack the city, prepared to die with him, and use one camp''s brothers to buy a retreat for the Eight Camps."

    "But... I didn''t die, I didn''t die!"

    "I also don''t know how I possibly didn''t die."

    Wang Zhi''s eyes were bloodshot, his face pained: "I was the first to climb the city wall, not retreating a step, continuing to fight until I lost consciousness, but I just did not die!"

    "When I woke up, I was in a bed, and Nanxu Country had already been repelled."

    "At that time, Bu Qi and Sun Li, who were still mere children, stood by my bed, asking for their third brother..."

    "The master also returned."

    "He said that from then on, our fate as master and disciple was finished, and told me to take care of myself."

    Chen Sansi asked, "Because of the death of the third son of the Supervisor?"

    "No."

    Wang Zhi trembled all over: "His old man did not me me for that."

    "He said it was his own ipetence, unable to protect his own son, and also med the younger brother for his youthful impulsiveness, that he should bear the corresponding consequences."

    "The reason he sent me away was because at the time, only the younger brother needed to die, not to lead to the annihtion of the entire Xuanwu Camp, too rash, not fit to be a general anymore..."

    "What happened after?"

    Chen Sansi asked, "Did it just end like that?"

    "No, it didn''t end!"

    Wang Zhi raised his head: "Not long after, the master avenged us!"

    "He went back to the Capital City alone and outside the Imperial Pce, he stabbed to death the Minister of War who had long dyed sending troops and then left the Capital City openly."

    Killing someone in the Imperial Pce?

    Wasn''t that almost the same as doing it in front of the Emperor''s face?

    Why didn''t he act before?

    Chen Sansi wondered.

    Could it be that after the incident, Lord Supervisor had made another breakthrough in Martial Arts?

    "Rumors from the outside."

    Wang Zhi exined, "The master had broken through to a realm above Martial Saint."

    Above Martial Saint...

    The Immortal Path?

    Chen Sansi felt it was far off.

    He currently was still vague about the realm above Refining Internal, only knowing it was called Hua Jin."

    And with everything having turned out this way, with Lord Supervisor not rebelling, could the Emperor still tolerate him?

    Unless...

    The two of them couldn''t kill each other!

    Chen Sansi recalled again the matter of the Emperor''s many years of spiritual cultivation."

    Upon reflection, the conflict between the Eight Camps and the Imperial Family seemed significant."

    But, he still had to go to the Governor Mansion."

    Because ording to the court''s nature, if one truly reached a certain level in Martial Arts, who knows how they might try to control him."

    Compared to that, the Governor Mansion was still the best ce to go."

 Chapter 77 Courting

    I never expected Fatty Wang to have such a past.

    Now that we''re on the subject, how did someone in the Bone Forging Perfection Realm manage to be themander of ten thousand men as the Camp General?

    Did he drop in rank?

    Seeming to catch onto his thoughts, Wang Zhi mocked himself, "Though I still cling to life, my body is practically ruined. My meridians and internal organs are damaged, and unless an immortal heals me, I''ll be stuck at Bone Forging Perfection for the rest of my life, unable to advance even an inch, let alone return to my former state."

    So he really did drop in rank.

    Is that why he let himself go?

    Not necessarily.

    Truth be told, despite Wang Zhi amassing a fair amount of wealth...

    Chen Sansi had never seen him spend any money; the guy even liked to mooch meals off others. He exploited the Martial Arts Hall the most. Nowadays, the young masters around the county avoid him like the gue.

    Possibly, he was saving money to buy medicine for his injuries.

    As the two continued their conversation, Wang Zhi''s mood gradually returned to normal.

    He gave a bitter smile, "I taught you the Cultivation Technique out of a selfish desire to do something for our master. But now, it seems like I won''t get to see her again. However, as long as you are in Po Yang, you can call on me anytime if you need anything."

    Chen Sansi didn''t need to offerfort. They were both grown men. He patted the other man''s shoulder and took his leave.

    Learning the secrets of Longqing''s 57th year...

    ...only made him more eager to improve his strength.

    Even Supervisor Sun, at one point, wasn''t strong enough to protect his own son.

    But once one surpasses Martial Saint, even if that person stabs an Imperial Officer in front of the Emperor, no one would darey a finger on them.

    Everything is based on strength.

    "Push harder."

    In no more than ten or fifteen days, Chen Sansi would be able to achieve Bone Strengthening.

    He returned home.

    The Sun Li siblings were both seated in the courtyard.

    "Sister, why did you stop me from killing that surnamed Tang just now!"

    Sun Buqi was still cursing under his breath.

    "He was certainly hateful for what he did back then, but if it had been you or me, what choice would we have made?"

    Sun Li''s eyes wereplex, "Instead of obsessing over the past, it''s better to cultivate diligently.

    "Learn from your junior brother. He''s even responsible for the Great Wall''s defense without cking off, his Cultivation has surely improved significantly."

    "Shanshi has the Nine Dragon Body; how could Ipare to that?"

    Sun Buqi spread his hands, "But Sister, you yourself at least have the Fire Lotus Martial Body. With a bit of effort, you might have a chance in the future."

    "Fire Lotus Martial Body?"

    Chen Sansi took the opportunity to inquire, "My understanding of Martial Bodies is very limited. Could you please exin it in detail, Sister?"

    The Eight Camps are renowned far and wide, and among them, those with extraordinary qualifications are surely not limited to the Supervisor and Sansi.

    His channels of information were limited; the news he received might not be urate.

    Sun Buqi yed coy, "Guess how long my sister has been practicing Martial Arts?"

    Typically, martial arts practitioners beginying the foundation at the age of twelve.

    Formal training starts around fifteen.

    The practice of Martial Arts in this world is extremely taxing on the body, and starting too young can backfire.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    He estimated Sun Li to be about neen years old.

    But Sister Lan had mentioned that she disliked practicing Martial Arts, and since he was asking, it surely hadn''t been for long.

    "One year."

    Unable to hold it in, Sun Buqi blurted out before her, "The Fire Lotus Martial Body, also known as the Congenital Saber Body, allows for astonishing speed in learning Saber Technique.

    "A year ago, my sister picked up the saber to start practicing Martial Arts. In one year, she''s reached Bone Training Perfection, close to Refining Internal.

    "But she still can''tpare to you.

    "Currently, there are few in the Eight Camps who can match you, but there are some.

    "For example, our eldest brother, with the Mixed Element Dominator Body, reached Refining Internal in half a year and Hua Jin in one year.

    "Besides, the speed of cultivation isn''t necessarily tied only to one''s physique;prehension ys a huge role too.

    "There''s a senior brother with an excellent root bone, but he''s not the brightest. Supposedly, he could have achieved Refining Internal in seven months, but he couldn''t understand the secret skill books, dragging it out to a year and a half.

    "And there''s another senior brother with a slightly lesser physique, expected to achieve Refining Internal in a year, but because of his sharpprehension, he did it in eight months.

    "Comprehension and physique are different things; they''re not one and the same."

    Chen Sansi nodded thoughtfully.

    It matched with what he thought. His own cultivation pace was good, making him what people call a "genius," but he was far from being "rarely seen in this world" and was only considered top-tier in Po Yang Territory.

    Perhaps, it was rted to his iplete physique.

    Others have oneplete physique.

    But not him.

    The blood of the Dragon Elephant and the Nine Dragon Living Veins are obviously a mixed match.

    There''s definitely a boost to cultivation, but until he gathers aplete set, he may not surpass those with aplete physique.

    And let''s not forget, he has the "Spirited Heart" from his studies, and with the help of Spiritual Grain, he has achieved his current cultivation pace.

    At the end of the day, he was still a frog in the well, with a shortsighted vision.

    Leaving Po Yang County was where the real world began.

    "Brother Bu Qi,"

    Chen Sansi cupped his fists and said, "Just now, I saw that your spear technique was extraordinary. I wonder if you could give me some guidance?"

    Finding someone to spar with, it''s actually better to have a controlled gap in realms.

    Comparing with Sun Li was a bit too much.

    Sun Buqi was proficient in Bone Training Skill and was conveniently one realm higher than him.

    "Are you sure?"

    Sun Buqi was full of confidence, "You may be better than me at archery, but you definitely can''t beat my spear technique!"

    Arriving at the Martial Arts Arena, they found an open space.

    Sun Buqi cupped his fists and said, "You practice the Undying Golden Snake, and I practice the Flying Snake Wind. Its specialty is speed, so you''d better be careful."

    The next moment.

    The long spear in his hand, truly like a flying serpent, reached him in the blink of an eye.

    "What a spear!"

    Chen Sansi had seen his exchange with Wang Zhi earlier and was on guard. Yet it was still faster than he had anticipated.

    After all, this was the young master of the Sun Family.

    Even if he waszy on a daily basis, how bad could he really be?

    Fortunately, he had the blood of the Dragon Elephant and the Nine Dragon Living Veins.

    He was in no way inferior in terms of strength.

    He could also barely keep up with the speed.

    But it''s still the same saying.

    As long as he didn''t lose at the start, there was a very high chance of winning for him.

    Whistling sounds from the Martial Arts Arena continuously pierced the air, deterring anyone within dozens of meters froming close.

    "This is the Undying Golden Snake?"

    Sun Buqi''s confidence quickly dissipated into thin air.

    He originally thought that with the advantage of his Cultivation Technique and the suppression of his realm, he would win within fifteen moves at worst.

    Yet after twenty moves, he still couldn''t im victory.

    The other party seemed a bit slower in speed, but in reality, he always managed to respond perfectly to iing attacks, without any ws whatsoever.

    "I don''t believe it!"

    Sun Buqi exerted all his might, and his spear technique became more dazzling than ever.

    Normally at this point, Chen Sansi would have started looking for opportunities to counterattack.

    But today, he wasn''t aiming to win. He just wanted to maintain the state of his surging Qi-Blood to refine his spear technique and elerate the improvement of his proficiency.

    During this process.

    He could feel it.

    The Nine Dragon Tendon absorbing the blood of the Dragon Elephant, then tempering the root bone through the Bone Membrane and meridians¡ª the intery of two different physical qualities, it was uncertain what the end result would be.

    "Junior Brother, you truly can''t win against me!"

    Sun Buqi initially got somewhat panicky, thinking he was going to be taken down across realms, but eventually he stabilized and fought more vigorously.

    "This idiot..."

    Only Sun Li could see that her brother was being led by the nose by Chen Sansi.

    ...

    "How long has he been practicing Martial Arts, and yet he can fight toe-to-toe with the young master of the Sun Family?"

    Not far away.

    As Ji Guangxian passed by, he stopped to watch. Being a schr, he couldn''t discern the intricacies and involuntarily looked towards his personal guard, "Just how good is this kid? Did I underestimate him?"

    "It is said that he has the Nine Dragon Body."

    Dan Guard exined straightforwardly, "If nothing unexpected happens, in the future he will at least be a Camp General."

    The Elite Camp Commandermands ten thousand soldiers.

    "Oh? If you say so, serving under me might indeed be beneath his talents."

    Ji Guangxian stroked his beard, pondering, "But if I can present him to Mr. Gao, to the Crown Prince, it would also count as a merit for me."

    "I''m afraid that would be difficult."

    Dan Guard said, "It looks like he is dead set on joining the Eight Camps."

    "Thed is still young and too naive,"

    Ji Guangxian drawled, "Elephant Sect is old and His Majesty is getting on in years. This world will eventually belong to the Crown Prince!

    "If you exin the importance of this rtionship clearly, any smart person woulde around, wouldn''t they?"

    "Moreover, as long as he is willing to follow me, the Ji Family''s ancestral secret medicine is plentiful; why would he need to risk his life in the military to earn merits for exchange?"

    "Yes!"

    Dan Guard epted the order, "Sir, let me try."

 Chapter 78 The Secret Recipe Not Passed On

    Time passes like this, without cessation, day and night.

    Ten days flew by in a sh.

    Every morning, Chen Sansi pretended to go hunting in the mountains, when in fact, he was boiling concoctions and brewing medicine.

    Upon returning, he would ask Sun Buqi to apany him in spear training.

    Moreover, with the addition of Spiritual Grain as aid.

    The breakthrough was only one step away.

    This was even after he intentionally slowed down the progress for two days due to concerns about poisoning in the meridians; otherwise, it would have been quicker.

    On the Martial Arts Arena.

    Chen Sansi and Sun Buqi were sparring for the countless time.

    But today.

    Sun Buqi''splexion looked somewhat unpleasant.

    He sensed something was amiss.

    Every other day, Chen Sansi''s spear technique would improve slightly from before.

    At first, he was barely able to hold his ground.

    Gradually, it turned into barely hanging on.

    And then it became impossible to resist.

    It wasn''t just the power, even the unique swiftness of the Flying Snake Spear Technique no longer held any advantage, and he was even beginning to fall behind.

    "How were you able to enhance the Undying Golden Snake Spear to such an extent?"

    Sun Buqi was astonished, "It must be due to the Nine Dragon Body, but junior brother, your understanding must also be remarkably high!"

    Another ten rounds passed.

    Sun Buqi was dizzy and weak, his Qi-Blood declining, barely able to hold on.

    "Bu Qi, hold on a little longer."

    Sun Li, who had been practicing with a de beside them, stopped her movements and said to him, "The junior brother is about to make a breakthrough."

    "Breakthrough?!"

    Sun Buqi paused for a moment, then clenched his teeth, exerting all his strength desperately.

    On the Martial Arts Arena, two long spears shed like two giant battling snakes, hissing and thundering continuously, causing no one to dare approach within a hundred meters.

    Chen Sansi no longer maintained the bnce, unleashing all his skills; his reed leaf spear became increasingly heavier, faster, and the variations in his moves became more agile, even bordering on eerie.

    In the end, the long spear seemed to possess its own life; it didn''t require him to think at all and would automaticallyunch fierce attacks at the opponent until it found the right opportunity to knock down the other giant snake.

    At the same time.

    The bones nourished by the Dragon Elephant Blood and Nine Dragon Living Veins underwent a qualitative change.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear. Upper (Mastery)]

    [Progress: 0/1000]

    [Utility: Dragon Elephant Blood, Nine Dragon Tendons, Innate Vajra]

    [Innate Vajra: Tempering the bones into iron, training the skin into copper; when reaching Great Sess, one''s body will be indestructible as Vajra.]

    Common Bone Training usually relies on Abnormal Bone and Xuan Skin.

    The Copper Skin Iron Bone is probably something only those with the Innate Vajra Body can possess.

    ''Did I really turn into such a hodgepodge?''

    Dragon Elephant Blood, Nine Dragon Tendons, and now the Vajra Body.

    Chen Sansi felt the strength in his bones.

    Even though he hadn''t achieved the Iron Bone level yet, they were definitely tough enough to withstand being chopped by a de or pierced by an axe; even if attacked from both front and rear, the error tolerance would be significantly high.

    "Mastering Bone Training in three months."

    Sun Buqi was knocked down by the suddenly surged terrifying force and naturally knew the opponent had seeded in the breakthrough.

    He stood up, "As long as your ability to lead troops is passable, you will definitely be a Main General of a regiment in the future!"

    "Thank you, senior brother Bu Qi, for sparring with me for so many days."

    Chen Sansi knew that it wasn''t an easy task.

    "Why be so polite?"

    Sun Buqi waved his hand, "But I won''t be able to keep up with you in the future."

    "Then, Senior Sister Sun will have to take over the hard work."

    Chen Sansi cheekily stated.

    "Hah, you''re not at all shy about asking for help."

    Sun Li holding her de responded, "Let''s talk when I''m free, I''ve got things to do."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Chen Sansi knew they were still investigating the matter regarding the Immortal Treasure.

    Even the Magistrate, the Lord Prefect, and Xiang Tingchun were looking into it.

    Lately, Po Yang County seemed calm on the surface, but danger lurked underneath, ready to erupt at any moment.

    Every faction would not give up the search for the Immortal Treasure easily.

    Leaving aside whether it was truly possible to refine Immortal Pills.

    The mere fact that the Abnormal Fire could elerate cultivation using Spiritual Grain was enough to drive people mad.

    Take the Barbarians as an example.

    Why have they not been able to invade the Central ins for a thousand years?

    Isn''t it because of the scarcity of resources resulting in fewer High-level Martial Artists than in Dasheng?

    But the arrival of Spiritual Grainpletelypensates for this.

    Spiritual Grain matures twice a year and can be found everywhere.

    It''s virtually cost-free.

    The Barbarians would have no difficulty obtaining it.

    With the Immortal Treasure, they would be able to mass-produce high-level martial artists; given enough time, they will inevitably surpass the Central ins in terms of martial force one day.

    In other words,

    whoever possesses an Immortal Treasure can create a formidable, ferocious army.

    That includes Chen Sansi himself.

    Of course, he is currently not qualified to use it.

    Both Emperor Dasheng and the Barbarians possess the greatestbat power of this age.

    Amon man is not guilty; possessing a jade makes him guilty.

    To legitimately own a treasure, what''s most needed is strength that matches it.

    Otherwise, you''re courting death.

    "Sister, I really don''t know where to start my investigation,"

    Sun Buqi said gloomily, "Althoughtely the Martial Arts Hall has been in frequent contact with the Magistrate, it''s quite normal for the local powers to pay tribute to the new official."

    The Martial Arts Hall and the Magistrate?

    Are these two colluding?

    It''s also possible that the Magistrate is investigating the Martial Arts Hall.

    ''It has nothing to do with me.''

    Even though Chen Sansi wasn''t included in the conversation, he didn''t interject.

    After the siblings had left,

    a man in ck clothing who had been watching from a distance finally found an opportunity and approached with a smile, "Congrattions to Officer Chen on another breakthrough in your Martial Arts Realm! With such talent, your future is boundlessly promising."

    The guard of Ji Guangxian?

    Chen Sansi recognized him.

    The man in ck introduced himself, "I am Dan Yuanzhi, we should have met before."

    "What does Dan Guard want with me?"

    Chen Sansi spoke calmly.

    "Thest time Magistrate Ji had some things he did not rify."

    Dan Yuanzhi argued, "Lord Prefect''s intent was not for you to follow him for life, but to be your patron. After your Refining Internal Organs, he directly rmends you to the Crown Prince."

    "The Crown Prince?"

    Before Chen Sansi could reply,

    "Why must Officer Chen insist on clinging solely to Governor Mansion?"

    Dan Yuanzhi continued, "We practice Martial Arts for a splendid future, right?

    "But do you know that Sun Dushi is getting old?

    "If something unexpected happens to Lord Governor and he has made many enemies at court, how will you, being closely associated with him, cope?

    "It would be better to switch allegiances early and find a reliable backer."

    Clearly,

    this was a change in Ji Guangxian''s attitude towards him.

    When the hard approach didn''t work, he was ready to try a softer one.

    "Dan Guard''s words are not proper,"

    Chen Sansi casually thought of an official-sounding response to fend him off, "I joined Governor Mansion, not to seek a backer, but to serve the court."

    "Serve the court, well said!"

    Dan Yuanzhi questioned, "Who sits above the court?"

    "Naturally, it''s the Holy Emperor," Chen Sansi said.

    "Correct, it''s the Holy Emperor."

    Dan Yuanzhi lowered his voice, "But the Holy Emperor is of advanced age. If he passes away, who then will sit above the court?

    "Therefore, only by pledging allegiance to His Highness early can one rapidly ascend to high positions."

    "Pass away?"

    Chen Sansi deliberately raised his voice, "How can Dan Guard speak such nonsense? The Emperor is Emperor Wan Shou, an Immortal by nature, how can there be talk of his demise?"

    Emperor Wan Shou, an Immortal by nature.

    These are titles the Old Emperor gave to himself.

    He said this

    partly to scare Dan Yuanzhi,

    and partly because it''s hard to say.

    The Immortal Treasure proves the existence of Immortal Trace.

    The Old Emperor has been striving for so many years; he must have gained something, right?

    This Supervisor of four decades, the Crown Prince, probably has to endure a few more years.

    "You..."

    Dan Yuanzhi was startled, his heart trembling, thankful that there was no one nearby.

    He was somewhat annoyed, "If that is the case, there''s no need for further discussion! In fact, Lord Prefect was prepared to present you with a secret medicine, but it seems, there is no need for that now."

    "Secret medicine?"

    Chen Sansi''s eyes lit up, "What kind of secret medicine?"

    ''Indeed, what truly attracts Martial Artists are things that improve their Cultivation.''

    Dan Yuanzhi felt hopeful, hastily said, "Magistrate Ji''s ancestors made a fortune from the medicinal herb business, and he possesses an exclusive secret medicine recipe. It was by offering this recipe that he caught the attention of Mr. Gao from the Cab. He will be transferred to the Capital City in a couple of years, which shows how precious this recipe is. But, Lord Prefect said, as long as you agree, you''ll have enough of it!"

    "Empty promises prove nothing."

    Chen Sansi said, "How about this, you brew a dose first and let me try it.

    "If this medicine is really as powerful as Dan Guard says, there''s no harm in considering a change of allegianceter."

    "Fine!"

    Dan Yuanzhi agreed at once.

 Chapter 79 Night Watch

    Chen Sansi watched Dan Yuanzhi leave with contentment and felt a bit of stealthy joy in his heart.

    It was like someone offering a pillow as soon as he felt sleepy.

    The medical books had mentioned this.

    For every Martial Arts Realm, there is a corresponding supplemental medicine that works best.

    The one targeting the mastery of Bone Training, the Households also had it.

    But since Ji Guangxian''s prescription caught even the Lord of the Capital''s eye, it must be extraordinary.

    Since it was for free, why not take it?

    Even if he didn''t want to take it, Ji Guangxian wouldn''t easily let it go.

    To take something for free and to buy time to enhance his cultivation were both beneficial.

    It was a win-win!

    "This Dan Yuanzhi is an entry-level in refining organs skill."

    "To deal with him, at the very least, one needs to have reached Bone Forging Perfection and also have achieved Great Arrow Skill to have a significant chance of winning."

    Chen Sansi felt immense pressure.

    He had just broken through and nned to first check the training state of his subordinates before continuing to cultivate.

    Recently, Wu Da entered the Blood Cultivation Introduction; his talent was mediocre, but he was extremely impulsive.

    Zhuang Yi was also close to entering Blood Cultivation.

    Overall, the progress was still too slow.

    At least a few people needed to reach the Bone Training Realm to really be effective.

    When passing by the horse field,

    it was unusually lively inside.

    In the spacious field, about two hundred people were training in cavalry formations.

    To attack the grasnd tribes, it was indispensable to have horses.

    For this purpose, Xiang Tingchun had not spared any efforts recently.

    Extorting silver from the Martial Arts Hall to buy horses, asking for them from the Prefecture''s Guard Command, and with the support of the Military Department, he actually managed to get nearly three hundred war horses.

    However, the war horses were assigned to the old veterans and confidants in the Households.

    Luo Dongquan, Feng Yong, Zhao Kang.

    Their subordinates were all transformed into cavalry.

    ...

    Past the horse field, there was anotherrge Martial Arts Arena for collective training.

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (Introduction)]

    [Progress: 133/500]

    [Utility: Mainstay]n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    After half a month on autopilot, the progress had only increased this much.

    Chen Sansi deliberately didn''t go near, watching their training from afar.

    He saw Xu Wencai so angry that his face turned thoroughly red.

    Many people teased him jokingly.

    "Old man, you can''t even perform Pile Work, and you want tomand us? Get lost."

    Wu Da led theughter, and a group of them burst outughing.

    "I already heard about you; you studied all your life and never passed the schr examination!"

    "You''re also unfilial, able-bodied, so why let your old mother support you?"

    "Really don''t know, what use Householder Chen keeps you for!"

    "..."

    "You... you..."

    Xu Wencai didn''t argue but merely held a Scroll Book, pointing to his scar-faced face: "This is the military order! Mr. Chen personally said that I should train your formations; dare you defy the military order?!"

    "Wu Da, stop making trouble."

    Zhao Qiao added, "Whatever Mr. Chen asks us to do, we must follow."

    After spending time in the military camp, they gradually became more disciplined, all naturally referring to Chen Sansi as the lord or Householder Chen; no one called him by his name directly anymore.

    "Don''t scare me!"

    With a light shove, Wu Da pushed the old schr to the ground: "A boot-licker, you must have deceived Mr. Chen!"

    "Bang¡ª"

    A long stick swept across and crashed down on his legs hard.

    Wu Da''s legs were in severe pain, and he knelt down with a thud.

    "Who?!"

    He looked up angrily, only to see a ive-like long spear and immediately hung his head: "Lord... why are you here?"

    "Wu Da!"

    Chen Sansi was expressionless: "Do you think you''re very impressive because you were the first one here to enter Blood Cultivation?"

    "Lord, why would you say that?"

    Wu Da showed a look of fear: "I don''t have such thoughts."

    Chen Sansi narrowed his eyes: "If you don''t have such thoughts, then what were you just doing?"

    No wonder the proficiency was growing so slowly.

    It turns out that as long as he wasn''t around,

    this group would each train on their own.

    They really listened to his words, but the person he appointed to manage them, might not necessarily want to listen.

    This is not eptable.

    The army is an institution.

    Without anyone to help manage, how could he handle it all?

    Last time, Zhao Jin''s issue taught them military discipline.

    Today, they must be told that military orders are absolute.

    "Sir."

    Wu Da swallowed his saliva and pointed at the old schr, "He knows nothing. How can you let him instruct us in formations?"

    "Is it up to me to decide whether he understands military formations, or is it up to you?!"

    Chen Sansi spoke deliberately, "Wu Da, I give you two choices, one, apologize and ept punishment; two, go home and hunt."

    "Sir, don''t drive me away!"

    Wu Da was truly panicked and hastily admitted his fault, "I apologize and ept punishment, apologize and ept punishment!"

    "Zhu Tong! Drag him away, twenty militaryshes!"

    Chen Sansi ordered.

    Among all people, Zhu Tong listened to him the most.

    Zhu Tong was not convinced by Xu Wencai either.

    But if he said to let Xu Wencai train the troops in formations, Zhu Tong would do as told.

    "Alright!"

    Zhu Tong, without a word, summoned two men to drag Wu Da away for punishment.

    "Those who followed and jeered just now, the same applies to you, either ept punishment or get lost!"

    Chen Sansi said sternly, "Listen clearly, from now on, whoever I appoint to do whatever, those who disagree or have objections cane to me, but anyone who causes trouble behind the scenes will be severely punished without exception!"

    "Yes!"

    The crowd nodded repeatedly.

    All had the same thought in their minds.

    They knew well that Wu Da had initially followed Chen and had gone hunting in the mountains; knowing him from those early days and seeing that even he was not exempt from punishment, they respected Chen even more.

    "Xu Wencai, Zhao Qiao, you twoe with me."

    Chen Sansi led them to a secluded ce and pulled out a silver ingot to hand to Zhao Qiao, "Uncle Zhao, buy some golden sore medicine for Wu Dater. Don''t say it''s money from me; he must learn his lesson."

    "Alright."

    Zhao Qiao took the silver and left. "He indeed deserves it; he''s been too arrogant these days."

    "Sir."

    Xu Wencai was tearfully grateful, "Thank you, sir."

    "If this happens again, juste to me."

    Chen Sansi patted his shoulder, "But let me also make it clear, if they all listen and follow orders, but you fail to train properly, you''ll only be fit for menial tasks in the future."

    "Don''t worry, sir!"

    Xu Wencai swore, "As long as they listen to me, there definitely won''t be a problem."

    "Hmm, go on."

    Chen Sansi allowed him to leave.

    He was not usually a harsh man, but he understood the principles that the kindly do not manage soldiers, the righteous do not manage wealth.

    An army without iron discipline will never mature.

    Originally, Xiao He pursued Han Xin by the light of the moon.

    For Liu Bang to suddenly entrust the still obscure Han Xin with a major responsibility was indeed a challenge.

    Therefore, Chen Sansi needed to cultivate respect and obedience towards his personnel appointments early on.

    Of course, he also needed to make the right judgment.

    Whether Xu Wencai was a mule or a horse, one test would reveal the truth.

    "Old Chen."

    Householder Xiong came looking, "Come on, Lord Thousand Households has a mission to assign to us."

    Central Army Camp.

    On the central table, there was a sand table made not long ago, and behind the main seat, a map was hung.

    Apart from Feng Yong, who was patrolling the Great Wall, the other eight householders had been summoned together.

    "Everyone is here."

    Xiang Tingchun was in a great mood, addressing everyone, "The official and the Ministry of War have decided that troops will be deployed at the end of March after April.

    "Then, An Ding Prefecture Guard will send a thousand people to strengthen the border defenses, not to mention an additional promise of five hundred more troops!

    "Including two hundred disciples from the Martial Arts Hall.

    "By that time, the usable people at our thousand household office will number up to sixteen hundred.

    "The Xi River tribe has two thousand people, but their bone training martial artists are far inferior to ours, the scattered tribes do not know military formations, and having not invaded the border for six years, they are certainlyx inbat.

    "Therefore, our chances of victory are great.

    "But warfare is no child''s y; the above intelligence is from two years ago.

    "Before officially formting a campaign strategy, I need three small teams to form night watch and verify the enemy intelligence."

    Night watch.

    It can be understood as scout.

    However, due to the lone army prating enemy territory, it often poses more danger than the usual scouts.

    Basically, it can be said that once exposed, there''s a great likelihood of sacrifice.

    "This task will be arranged by Luo Qianhu."

    Xiang Tingchun pointed to the Xi River on the sand table, "A month from now, I need the intelligence."

 Chapter 80 Beacon Fires Alight

    "Since the higher-up has spoken, I must select the soldiers,"

    Luo Dongquan''s gaze swept across the several Hundred Households inside the tent.

    Xiong, Liu, and others didn''t dare to raise their heads.

    No one wanted to undertake this grueling task.

    Guess why it''s called the night watch.

    Soon, Luo Dongquan spoke, "Liu Jinkui, Chen Sansi, each of us will pick ten men from our subordinates. In a month, we must head to the grasnd and ascertain the true state of the Xi River tribe."

    Xiang Tingchun had just sat down and picked up a tea cup when he heard this n, his eyebrows slightly furrowed, but he didn''t speak out against it.

    "This subordinate... epts the order!"

    Liu Jinkui reluctantly epted the order.

    Chen Sansi was not a hypocrite.

    Military orders were as heavy as mountains; he naturally would obey.

    It''s just that having Luoe along as well, couldn''t help but seem like he harbored ill intentions.

    "I should be the one to go!"

    Wang Zhi suddenly stood up, "I have reached Bone Forging Perfection, am I not stronger than him?"

    "Hundred Households Wang."

    Luo Dongquan said coldly, "It''s not your ce to speak, is it?"

    "I didn''t ask you!"

    Wang Zhi shouted towards the main seat, "Households Commander Xiang, Luo harbors no good intentions!"

    "Fatty Wang, what do you mean by that?!"

    Luo Dongquan red angrily, "Do you actually think that I would harm Hundred Households Chen in secret?"

    "Only you know what you''re thinking,"

    Wang Zhi insisted, "Households Commander Xiang, I''m definitely not being overprotective. Chen Sansi can go, but Luo Dongquan cannot. Only one of them can go!"

    "Wang Zhi, you dare defy a military order?!"

    "To hell with you, being Deputy Thousand Households is so important, huh?"

    "Do you believe I''ll report you to the Department of Soldiers!"

    "Go ahead and report, see if I''m scared?"

    "Enough!!!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Xiang Tingchun''s fist thunderously mmed on the desk, "Wang Zhi! You will go along with Chen Sansi!"

    "A wise decision!"

    Wang Zhi immediately changed to a sycophantic expression, "This subordinate guarantees toplete the mission!"

    Once the assignment was given, the group dispersed.

    "Old Luo."

    Xiang Tingchun, with eyes closed, inquired, "You were supposed to include Feng Yong, Zhao Kang, and Liu Jinkui. Why did you change it without authorization? I said after spring, do what you will with him, but right now, I need this man!"

    "This subordinate deserves to die."

    Luo Dongquan kneeled on one knee, "But sir, the Sun siblings are present, and Magistrate Ji is also courting him. If I wait till then, where will I get the chance?"

    "Wait a bit longer."

    Xiang Tingchun''s cheeks creased and then smoothed as he finally said, "At the very least, he must die on the main battlefield."

    "Sir, I understand,"

    Luo Dongquan bowed his head low.

    ...

    "That damned Luo Dongquan!"

    As soon as he walked out of the tent, Liu Jinkui burst into curses, "I used to treat him to meals all the time, now that he''s been promoted, he assigns me this deadly task!"

    "Entry-level Refining Internal dares to be arrogant!"

    Wang Zhi spat, "If it were the past, I would have split him in two right there."

    Zhao Kang and the rest pretended not to hear and quickly left.

    Xiong Qiuan followed with curses, "I''ve always seen he''s no good."

    "Shi, don''t panic."

    Wang Zhi sneered, "I''ll go with you, Luo wouldn''t dare to do anything."

    "Thanks."

    Chen Sansi expressed his gratitude.

    With him apanying, there was at least no need to worry about being directly assassinated.

    "Still, I''m too weak; otherwise, who would dare harbor evil thoughts."

    Comining was useless.

    All he could do was devote himself to his cultivation.

    He must also prepare for the trip to the grasnd.

    Chen Sansi returned to the Martial Arts Arena to pick those for the night watch.

    "Zhu Tong, Zhuang Yi, Zhao Qiao, Li Dazhi, Xia Erniu."

    He picked five, Wang Zhi picked five.

    "Sir, what about me?"

    Wang Li was surprised, "Let me go with you."

    "You stay behind, in my absence, you''re responsible for helping Xu Wencai with the military drills."

    Chen Sansi said.

    This Wang Li usually keeps quiet, yet his cultivation speed is not slow at all, tightly following Zhu Tong. Most importantly, he has a stable personality, follows orders, and doesn''t cause any trouble.

    "Yes!"

    Wang Li epted the orders.

    "You five, go to the horse fieldter. Someone will specifically train you in Horse Control Skill."

    Going to the grasnd without a horse is not possible.

    The matter was settled.

    Several days passed in a sh.

    Chen Sansi routinely practiced cultivation and made medicine.

    After Bone Strengthening, it was time for Skin Training.

    To practice Skin Training, one couldn''t rely solely on Training. It required enduring painful tempering as well.

    There were two kinds of tempering tools.

    One was sandstone rough salt, the other was Iron Sand.

    Depending on the tool used, the tempering effects varied.

    Naturally, Chen Sansi chose Iron Sand.

    A wooden barrel was filled with specially made Iron Sand.

    He entered the barrel naked; it was as if he plunged into a mountain of knives and a sea of fire.

    Even though Chen Sansi was mentally prepared, he was still tortured until his facial features twisted. He forced himself to endure for ten minutes before jumping out, his body bloody and not a single patch of good flesh remained.

    He quickly took out his ointment.

    This ck jade Protective Body Ointment was extremely expensive, costing five hundred taels per box and onlysting for twenty days.

    Even at the Bone Training Realm, the consumption of resources was astronomically expensive.

    No wonder many talented martial artists were willing to serve major families or martial arts halls like dogs.

    Soldiers in the military fought desperately with the hope of exchanging military merits, but how could Jianghu wanderers afford it?

    The ck ointment, like mud, coated his entire body, bringing a wave of coolness. Threads and strands of medicinal power continuously repaired the surface wounds on his body.

    Training the skin in this way would not only avoid damaging the skin, but also make it smoother and more delicate.

    No wonder it was so expensive.

    After all, the medicinal herbs used inside were very precious.

    After deciphering the form, Chen Sansi managed to mix about a box of it.

    Any more than that, and there wouldn''t be any left.

    After all, the medicinal herbs obtained from Medicine Valley were just one of the many medicinal gardens, most of which were ingredients for Replenishing Essence Soup and Medicine Baths.

    When it was used up...

    He would borrow some from Brother Liang''s ce.

    Chen Sansi made up his mind.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear ¨C Advanced (Mastered)]

    [Progress: 105/1000]

    Too slow!

    The greatest increase in his cultivation speed was through Spiritual Grain.

    But the absorption efficiency was just too slow!

    Originally nned, he had four more months to refine his internals, provided he continuously consumed Spiritual Grain.

    But the more he practiced, the more Chen Sansi dared not consume too much.

    The poison in the meridians was no joke.

    "Forget it..."

    "Rushing is useless."

    Chen Sansi could only keepforting himself, packing up his belongings and leaving the cave to go down the mountain and return home.

    It was dusk; the remaining sunlight of the setting sun reflected off the twilight sky. The military settlement was peaceful and serene. Every household was making fire for cooking, the wafting smoke rising up through the chimneys into the sky like long white dragons soaring.

    "Brother Shi is back."

    Gu Xin came out to meet him, Xu Bin''s pregnant wife, Sister Tong, was also there; she slightly bowed in greeting, "Greetings to Hundred Household Chen."

    "Brother Shi, Sister Tong said to have dinner at her ce tonight; the wine and dishes are all ready."

    "Brother Shi, what are you looking at?"

    "Mr. Chen... what''s so interesting about the chimney?"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi had not heard a word from them.

    His eyes were fixed on the sky, his expression serious.

    Among the white dragons, a ck dragon had mingled.

    That was not smoke from cooking.

    It was a beacon fire!

    It had been many years since Po Yang Thousand Households had dealt with warfare. Now a beacon fire was lit, and even the families living in the military settlement had not noticed the anomaly in time.

    "Buzz¡ª"

    "Enemy attack, enemy attack!"

    "All soldiers assemble, assemble¡ª"

    The Order Officer''s loud voice, apanied by the sound of horse hooves, rang through the military settlement.

 Chapter 81 Ambush

    "Assemble¡ª¡ª"

    "Buzzing¡ª¡ª"

    Over nine hundred officers and soldiers assembled at the Great Martial Arts Arena with the fastest speed, amidst the chaos in the barracks yet without losing the most basic order.

    "Report!"

    "The border has lit two beacon fires, one signal tower indicates ''one,'' and one pile of firewood has been burnt, indicating that a raid of more than ten but less than a hundred cavalry is imminent!"

    Xiang Tingchun made a swift decision, "Zhao Kang, heed mymand, you are to lead a hundred light cavalry and rush to the aid of the Great Wall immediately. If the number of raiders is a hundred cavalry, hold the fort and do not venture out. If it''s around fifty cavalry, pursue for thirty li outside the city regardless of whether the pursuit is sessful or not, you must not exceed thirty li."

    "Liu Jinkui, Xiong Qiuan, Wang Zhi, the three of you are to lead your men to the Great Wall to reinforce our defenses and report any situation promptly."

    "Your subordinate obeys!"

    Several Hundred Households immediately set about their tasks.

    Especially when Zhao Kang''s hundred light cavalry burst out of the barracks, they kicked up dust that filled the sky, a sight that was nothing short of spectacr.

    "Lord Thousand Households."

    Chen Sansi sped his fist, "Allow me to apany Hundred Households Zhao."

    "You?"

    Xiang Tingchun hesitated for a moment, "Go, but you must follow orders and must not act on your own initiative."

    "I obey!"

    Chen Sansi mounted his White Swan Horse.

    Within two minutes, he had caught up with the main force and came alongside Zhao Kang.

    "What a fine horse!"

    Zhao Kang said with envy, "Your white horse must be even faster than that of Lord Thousand Households!"

    Chen Sansi could clearly feel that the speed of the White Swan Horse was increasing as his mastery of Horse Control improved.

    But he was not themander of this operation and did not dare outpace the main force, so he stayed close by Zhao Kang''s side.

    "This is really something!"

    Zhao Kang pulled on the reins, "It''s been so many years since we''ve had cavalry raiders in the Po Yang Territory!"

    "Hundred Households Zhao, have you fought in wars before?"

    Chen Sansi asked.

    "Three or four times," Zhao Kang said with a deep voice. "The first time was nine years ago when eighty barbarian cavalryunched a surprise attack, breached the city wall, and ughtered a vige.

    "At that time, Households Commander Xiang was a Deputy Thousand Households, and the discipline of the Thousand Households troops was even looser than when you arrived, with virtually nobat capability. After the raiders had killed and looted, they left, and we couldn''t keep them.

    "That afternoon, Households Commander Xiang''s mother and siblings, his entire family, happened to be returning from the county town after making purchases and encountered the barbarians halfway. Not one survived.

    "The next year, the then Lord Thousand Households was promoted and transferred, and after Mr. Xiang took over as the Households Commander, the military discipline began to improve.

    "Later when the barbarian cavalry came again, most of the time they suffered heavy losses and eventually ceased their raids.

    "Today''s attack was indeed sudden."

    "..."

    Chen Sansi understood.

    So Xiang Tingchun''s insistence on campaigning against the Xi River tribes was not just about getting a promotion; it seemed there were also personal vendettas involved.

    "Hya¡ª¡ª"

    The Thousand Households was naturally located close to the Great Wall, as it was meant to defend it.

    They arrived at their destination while they were talking.

    Since every peace negotiation between the Central ins and the barbarian tribes often led to trade, the Great Wall was notpletely sealed off and normally had gates left open.

    The location where the signal fires had been lit was right next to one of the gates.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Looking up, they could see two officers'' bodies hanging from the battlements, pierced by arrows.

    "Old Zhao, you guys arrived?!" Feng Yong leaned out and called out loudly, "The enemy doesn''t have many troops, just a Bone Training Hundred Households leading over fifty elite cavalrymen!"

    The barbarian tribes emted Dasheng, also implementing a system of military households.

    Moreover, all adult males on the grasnds were expected to serve in the military, embodying a system where every man was a soldier ready for battle and a herdsman when off duty,bining military and pastoral duties.

    "Open the city gate!"

    Zhao Kang did not waste words, "I am acting under the orders of Lord Thousand Households to sally forth and y the enemy, quickly open the gate!"

    "Creak¡ª¡ª"

    The heavy and solid gate opened.

    A hundred light cavalry swarmed out.

    "Chase!"

    Zhao Kang brandished his sword.

    However, as they were opening the city gate, the barbarian cavalry began to retreat. By the time the Sheng Dynasty soldiers chased out, the enemy had already fled a considerable distance. At this point, it became a contest of whose horses were faster.

    The warhorses Xiang Tingchun painstakingly acquired were not bad, but they were not necessarily better than the horses from the grasnd.

    As the chase prolonged, the distance between them and the barbarians grew further and further.

    It seemed chasing any longer would only result in a fruitless return.

    A white horse surpassed all other Sheng officials like a shooting star, closing the gap to the barbarian cavalry to about a hundred and twenty paces within a few breaths.

    The tiger bone big bow was quietly drawn, and a willow-leaf arrow shot forth, piercing through the back of a light barbarian cavalry, who fell stiffly from his horse.

    Zhao Kang was shocked beyond measure.

    You see, shooting an arrow from the ground and from horseback arepletely different things.

    Unfortunately, this arrow did not close the distance between the two sides, and the Sheng officials were still far behind.

    "Giddyup¡ª"

    Chen Sansi put away the tiger bone big bow and switched to a reed-leaf long spear. He spurred the horse''s belly, and the White Swan Horse beneath him picked up speed again, charging straight at the barbarian cavalry.

    "Dangerous!"

    Ahead was a slope, and Zhao Kang was toote to stop him as the long spear and white horse vanished from their sight.

    He couldn''t help but feel a sinking feeling in his heart.

    Although there was only one barbarian hundred households, there were still over fifty cavalrymen. Charging in alone like this was bound to meet with encirclement!

    "This kid''s talent is good, but his actions are too rash."

    "He can''t die! If he dies, Wang Zhi will likely think that I colluded with Luo Dongquan to deliberately kill him!"

    "Chase, chase for me!"

    ...

    The barbarian officer d in armor spurred his horse to gallop at the front of the troop.

    He looked back and asked, "Have we shaken them off?"

    "Lord Hundred Households, one man on a white horse is incredibly fast and has actually caught up!"

    "How many?"

    "Just one!"

    "Such audacity, could it be Xiang Tingchun himself?"

    "No, judging by the armor it seems to be a hundred households!"

    "A hundred households dares to chase after our fifty men? He''s seeking death!"

    Judging the speed at which the rest of the pursuers might catch up, the barbarian hundred households felt he had enough time and ordered, "Clear the way, I''ll personally sever his head!"

    "Hyah¡ª"

    He reined in his horse, turning to look back.

    He saw a white horse military officer approaching with a long spear, who with a raise of his hand, plunged the spear directly into a Blood Refining Officer, killing him instantly.

    "What ruthless spear technique!"

    The barbarian hundred households immediately changed his mind, "Surround and kill him, you swine; surround him until he''s dead!"

    Cavalry is different from infantry.

    With the boost of warhorses, their strength and speed far exceed that of infantry.

    Ordinarily, to exhaust a Bone Training Great Sess martial artist, it would take twenty light infantrymen, but if you switch to cavalry, then merely over ten riders would suffice. With charge after charge, a mere martial artist could hardly withstand several rounds.

    Furthermore, among the more than fifty riders, there were not only Array Soldiers but also Blood Refining Great Sess martial artists and military soldiers. Even a bone training martial artist would likely be exhausted to death.

    After the barbarian hundred households gave themand, the barbarian cavalry immediately turned around, spread out to a suitable distance, and then charged from all directions, encircling the white horse. Then they all pressed on to attack.

    "Puchi¡ª"

    Chen Sansi thrust his spear, killing the enemy who approached face-to-face. He had just withdrawn the spear when he heard the whistling of a sharp weapon tearing through the air behind him. He immediately bent low on the horse''s back to dodge a sh, then his waist twisted like a water snake, rotating 360 degrees as he swept his long spear in all directions, forcing back the enemies trying to ambush him from various angles. The White Swan Horse neighed and continued to charge forward. Seizing the brief opportunity, he thrust his spear through another enemy cavalry blocking the way and broke out of the encirclement.

    No matter how strong a martial artist is, they still only have two arms and two legs.

    This is the reason for the existence of an army; with enough people and sufficient time,bined with specialbat skills, they can always find an opportunity to kill the enemy leader.

    This kind of life-and-death struggle, this critical and stimting moment, made Chen Sansi''s blood surge throughout his body. His Qi-Blood, meridians, and even the meridians themselves were operating over their limits under the instinct to survive. The residual toxins in his meridians began to rapidly deplete, and his proficiency in spear technique improved significantly.

    Meanwhile, the barbarian cavalry adjusted their formation andunched a second round of encirclement and attack.

    "Bring it on!"

 Chapter 82 A Lone Knight Slays a General

    This time, three spears were thrusted towards him simultaneously.

    Chen Sansi moved like a ghostly apparition, in the blink of an eye he was no longer atop the horse, instead, he clutched the saddle with one hand, his body fully suspended at the nk, narrowly evading the strike without harm.

    Before the opponent could retract their spears, Chen Sansi harnessed the strength of his waist and, like a spring, vaulted back onto the horse, trapping the wooden shafts of the iing spears under his arm, his arm muscles coiled like dragons. The blood of the Dragon Elephant, paired with the Nine Dragon Living Veins, erupted with astonishing power; he easily snapped the wooden shafts.

    "Huff¡ª"

    The sound of a sharp weapon drawing near came from behind.

    Relying on his hearing, Chen Sansi surmised that this assant was clever, realizing that his agile body was difficult to hit, so they aimed directly for the White Swan Horse instead.

    "Go!"

    He leapt into the air, thrusting his long spear and impaling a spearman who had lost his weapon, iming his horse, and using the corpse as a weapon to crash into those behind him.

    With the White Swan Horse unburdened, its speed surged forward rapidly, sessfully dodging a sh from behind.

    Heart and mind as one!

    Not until actually battling on the field did Chen Sansi truly understand how important this was.

    He jumped back onto the White Swan Horse, stabbing to death three cavalrymen in session and once again breaking through the encirclement.

    No more than a few seconds had psed.

    Six or seven cavalrymeny dead.

    "My lord!"

    The barbarian cavalry hesitated for a moment and did not immediatelyunch a third charge but simultaneously looked towards their Hundred Households leader for instructions.

    But before they could receive anymands,

    it was the White Horse military officer who took the initiative and charged forth.

    In the chaos,

    Chen Sansi''s vision was filled to the brim with ded weapons of all sorts, the air was thick with killing intent from all directions, and enemies were everywhere. He had no time to distinguish between military officers and rank soldiers as he continuously swung the reed-leaf long spear, spearing one barbarian after another, whilst also fending off attacks from all sides. The air was thick with blood, akin to a macabre rain.

    In such a state, with all guns zing, it was an incredibly rapid expenditure of Qi-Blood for any martial artist.

    Martial artists, aside from their physical bodies, rely on Qi-Blood to enhance their attacks.

    This was equivalent to constantly using skills, draining the mana bar.

    Once the mana runs dry, one can only rely on the strength of their physical body.

    Fortunately, his mana bar was a little bitrger than average.

    With the blood of the Dragon Elephant coursing ceaselessly, Chen Sansi''s body was aze with heat, but he felt no fatigue; his lunging spear grew ever more stable, urate, and ruthless. In front of him, one after another, the cavalrymen fell, with cries of agony rising in session.

    "Keep going!"

    The barbarian Hundred Households held his curved de tightly, closely observing the situation, ready to further deplete the opponent''s Qi-Blood before personally taking action.

    After a martial artist breaks through to the Bone Forger Realm, the main enhancements are to defensive power, physical strength, and speed, not much to Qi-Blood.

    Therefore, theoretically speaking,

    trying to kill a bone training martial artist with just cavalry would be incredibly costly.

    But the lives of twenty or more cavalrymen could roughly deplete about half of the opponent''s Qi-Blood. At that point, if he made his move, he would have the upper hand, and with someone assisting in a sneak attack, decapitating the enemy would be easy!

    Trading twenty or so lives for that of a bone training General''s was quite the deal.

    However, very soon¡­

    The barbarian Hundred Households realized something was amiss.

    For this young Dasheng military officer seemed to show no difference from his initial state, having in more than twenty cavalrymen without any sign of diminished Qi-Blood, not even making use of the unique defensive abilities possessed by bone training martial artists.

    To put it bluntly, not even the skin was scratched!

    It was impossible to tell at which stage of the Bone Training Realm he was.

    "Impossible! The information the spies sent back two months ago only mentioned a young Hundred Households who had just started with the Bone Strengthening Skill. Where did this kind ofbat powere from? A breakthrough in just two months? And this looks to be the strength of small achievement, or even Great Sess!"

    The barbarian Hundred Households was rendered speechless.

    It was because of this report that he decided to quickly surround and kill the enemy.

    But now it seemed the information was faulty.

    "No time left!"

    In the time they hesitated, the Dasheng cavalry were about to catch up.

    "Retreat!"

    The barbarian Hundred Households bellowed, leading the retreat.

    The remaining thirty or so barbarians, having long lost the will to fight, turned their horses one after another, fleeing to the north.

    "My lord!"

    "He''s still pursuing!"

    "What?!"

    The barbarian Hundred Households nced back as he turned slightly, and indeed, he saw the White Horse rushing forward at a ferocious speed, any cavalryman that dared to block his path was screaming as they toppled to the grasnd, unstoppable, and in the blink of an eye, he was less than thirty feet away from him.

    "Are you courting death?!"

    Furious, the barbarian Hundred Households, after all, was a Bone Forger with some achievement; he had refrained from acting, simply seeking stability.

    There was no need to retreat any further!

    While Chen Sansi was still retracting his spear after killing another cavalryman, the Hundred Households took the opportunity to charge, his curved sword casting a ck moonlight in the sky, swinging down from above straight toward the throat.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    The reed-leaf long spear stabbed out at an extremely tricky and unreasonable angle, managing to arrive at the enemy General''s heart before anything else could, in an instant.

    The barbarian Hundred Households'' face turned pale with shock.

    There was no time to dodge, so he could only block with his arm that was wrapped in a bracer.

    "Crack¡ª"

    The bracer shattered as if it were made of paper, and the sturdy arm bone was effortlessly pierced through.

    The Barbarian Hundred Households endured the severe pain, trying to grab the spear shaft with his hand to limit the opponent''s movement, and exchange wound for wound.

    Unfortunately, he didn''t get the chance.

    A weapon over three meters long should be very cumbersome, yet in the enemy''s hands, it was as flexible as a dagger. Before he could even see it clearly, the spear de disappeared from his arm''s flesh and bone, and when it reappeared, it had pierced his chest cavity.

    "Crack, crack!"

    Chen Sansi released the Qi-Blood coursing through his body, which explosively erupted, his strength converging in his sinewy arms and then transferring to the reed leaf long spear. The spear tip, like a drill, stirred and ground the bones to pieces before pounding into the heart.

    He hoisted the dying body of the Barbarian Hundred Households high into the air, swinging it around in the sky like a g, then threw it out, toppling a Cavalryman trying to escape, horse and all.

    In one move!

    The many Barbarian Cavalrymen were dumbstruck.

    Their Hundred Households, not the match for this man in a single move!

    "Retreat!"

    "Retreat quickly!"

    With the Main General dead, morale copsed.

    The Barbarian Cavalry panicked, their formation in disorder, fleeing on their horses.

    But the White Swan Horse blocked them ahead, and any who darede close were stabbed to death.

    Additionally, more than a hundred Dasheng Cavalry were in hot pursuit from behind.

    With no way to go forward and enemies chasing from behind.

    It was clearly a road to death.

    "We surrender!"

    "Mercy, my lord, we are willing to surrender!!"

    One of the Barbarian g officers took the lead, and the others followed suit,

    dismounting one after another.

    "Surrender?"

    Chen Sansi frowned: "Who allowed you to surrender?!"

    "What do you mean?"

    Before the Barbarian Cavalry could react, they saw the White Swan Horse charging at them again,pelling them to fight like trapped beasts.

    ...

    "What''s going on?"

    Finally arriving at the battlefield, Zhao Kang looked at the White Swan Horse charging back and forth and the bodies strewn everywhere, taking a long time toe back to his senses.

    One man, one horse.

    They had made more than fifty Cavalry flee in disarray.

    More than fifty Cavalry!

    Even a martial artist in the Bone Forger Realm would be drained of Qi-Blood, having to rely solely on their physical prowess to fight brutally!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    But that was not even the main issue.

    The key was that the enemy also had a Bone Forger Hundred Households!

    If Chen Sansi showed even the slightest w, he would have been beyond redemption!

    It was a critical situation, not a time for shock.

    Zhao Kang led his men into the fray: "Brothers, kill them all, don''t let a single one escape!"

    ...

    The chase ended within half an incense stick''s burning time.

    The fifty plus Barbarian Cavalrymen that came did not return, most of them in on spot, leaving only two alive for interrogation.

    They also captured more than twenty warhorses and a number of spears and long knives.

    "Hundred Households Chen, this is a bit too exaggerated," Zhao Kang said, feeling ashamed. "If it were me, I definitely would have been worn down by the Cavalry, then the enemy General would have taken advantage of my weakness and killed me with chaotic shes.

    "You alone killed more than thirty Cavalry, plus you crossed realms to kill the enemy General...

    "After we return, not to mention the standard rewards, a promotion is definitely in order."

    "You tter me, Hundred Households Zhao."

    Chen Sansi was covered in blood, feeling exhrated.

    His exhration wasn''t because of the merit he had achieved, but because the fight had been so effective! His body''s meridians were nearly purged of poison, and his spear technique had improved tremendously.

    It appeared that bloodybat, especially when triggered by being surrounded, unleashed potential that was many times more effective than regr martial arts sparring!

    To put it simply, fighting was exhrating!

    [Skill: Undying Golden Snake Spear - Upper (Adept)]

    [Progress: 205/1000]

    The Spiritual Grain within his body fully absorbed, directly leaping forward in proficiency, equivalent to several days of hard practice.

    Zhao Kang directed his men to clear the battlefield, then quickly returned, triumphant.

    But what greeted them was not celebration and tion, but a solemn and stern atmosphere.

    "An urgent war report over eight hundred miles!"

    "The grasnd''s Four ns secretly formed an alliance and, five days ago, suddenly dered war on all three states of the Northwest Border!

    "Additionally, Prince Tuoba, leading fifty thousand Iron Cavalry, is marching straight for An Ding Prefecture!"

    "Yunzhou is in peril!"

 Chapter 83 Ji Guangxian

    Central Army Camp.

    "Urgent war report from An Ding Prefecture, eight hundred li away."

    Xiang Tingchun dropped the letter, "Unexpectedly, the Four Barbarian Tribes of the grasnd, after years of overt and covert struggles, managed to form an alliance overnight.

    "Not only that, instead of attacking Liangzhou, they specifically dispatched fifty thousand troops to attack Yunzhou. The letter says they have already set up camp outside the Great Wall and may begin their assault at any time. Themand office of Yunzhou has ordered us to strengthen our border defenses and hold our positions without advancing, and to report any developments immediately."

    "What are your thoughts?"

    All the Hundred Households stood within the tent.

    A Hundred Household by the surname Qian spoke up, "Could today''s cavalry raid be rted to this?"

    "It''s possible."

    Feng Yong took over, "That group of cavalrymen didn''t seem to be here to loot; it felt more like they were testing the reality of the Great Wall''s defenses."

    "Oh?"

    Xiang Tingchun spoke seriously, "Are you suggesting that the Xi River tribes are preparing to actively attack Po Yang?"

    "I wouldn''t dare to specte rashly."

    Feng Yong said, "With the military strength of the Xi River tribes, they should not have the courage, but we can''t rule out their secretly reinforcing their troops."

    Attacking and defending a city arepletely different concepts in terms of difficulty.

    To attack a city, one often needs several times the number of troops to surround it.

    "This possibility is not great."

    Luo Dongquan spoke solemnly, "The Northwest Three Statesbined with An Ding Prefecture are all strategic points; it would take at least an army of over three hundred thousand to match up. Even if the Four Barbarian Tribes unite, their military and material resources are still limited; where would they have the capacity to reinforce the Xi River tribes?"

    "That said, it''s still best to be cautious."

    Xiang Tingchun ordered, "The Night Patrol Team to start scouting missions ahead of time, set off after the fifteenth day, and be sure to rify the recent situation of the Xi River tribes."

    "Yes!"

    After discussing the military issues, they moved on to the rewards for killing the enemy.

    "Hundred Household Chen alone broke through thirty light cavalry and directly took the life of an enemy general, bravely invincible!"

    Xiang Tingchun sincerely expressed, "Even I was not nearly as good as you when I started!"

    "I will make a report to the court, promoting you to the rank of Captain Chengxin.

    "As for the medicinal materials in the camp, from today onwards, you may use the medicine baths as you wish; all costs will be charged to me!

    "However, starting from the ck Jade Protective Ointment, we have a limited quantity in the camp. All the Hundred Households need it, so I can''t just give it to you alone."

    Sixth Rank Hundred Households, initially promoted to Zhaoxin Captain.

    After performing well orpleting the term, they are promoted to Captain Chengxin.

    This can be understood as a promotion in military rank.

    After reaching a certain rank, you can then continue to be promoted.

    If there are no military achievements or significant breakthroughs in level, this process can be very slow.

    Even Xiang Ting Chun, after he seeded in Refining Internal, spent several years as a Deputy Thousand Households before he managed to be the Households Commander.

    "Besides that, whatever reward you wish for, just speak up."

    "My lord, I want horses."

    Chen Sansi was forthright, "The twenty horses captured, can I have them?"

    "Okay!"

    Xiang Tingchun agreed very readily, "Not only will you have the twenty horses you captured, but I will also find a way to get you thirty more horses!"

    "Thank you, Lord Thousand Households!"

    Chen Sansi bowed with his fists sped.

    His request for horses was both practically useful.

    And on the other hand, it was because the Thousand Households were too poor, clearly unable to afford any other rewards.

    Po Yang Territory, it really was no longer a ce to stay.

    Resources were too scarce.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om

    Leaving the tent.

    Dan Yuanzhi had been waiting for a while, "Congrattions to Hundred Household Chen for your military sess! A single man on horseback nearly annihted the invading cavalry; with such achievements, even the Crown Prince would probably take a second look!"

    In his words, he hinted at a limitless future if they followed them.

    "What about the medicine?"

    Chen Sansi didn''t beat around the bush, "Guard Dan, didn''t you say that the Lord Prefect wants to gift me a secret medicine?"

    "Magistrate Ji was very pleased to hear that you were considering surrendering, and he wants to invite you to his residence as a guest. After the banquet, he will personally prepare the medicine for you."

    Dan Yuanzhi gestured invitingly, "Hundred Household Chen, this way, please."

    "How thoughtful! Wang Zhi, someone''s buying us a meal!"

    Chen Sansi shouted loudly.

    "Who?!"

    From a hundred meters away, Fatty Wang swiftly approached like a whirlwind: "Are you a guard for the Lord Prefect? So it''s Magistrate Ji who is inviting us, very good, very good!"

    "?"

    Dan Yuanzhi didn''t anticipate this turn of events.

    "Dan Guard."

    Chen Sansi smiled and said, "Add a pair of chopsticks, Magistrate Ji surely wouldn''t mind, right?"

    This trip.

    Ji Guangxian most likely intended to show goodwill, without any hidden agenda.

    But, it''s good to be prepared for anything, just in case.

    "Cough cough, of course I don''t mind."

    Dan Guard led the way ahead.

    Outside the military camp, a carriage was already prepared.

    It was Chen Sansi''s first time sitting in a carriage.

    It must be said that those with money and status really know how to enjoy life.

    "Ha, Chen, you''re really something."

    Wang Zhi rubbed his hands excitedly, "Ji Guangxian is a substantial household, this capture is a real scoop!"

    The carriage jolted and swayed until it reached the county town, the sky also grew dim, finally stopping in front of a grand mansion.

    Ji Guangxian, dressed in casual clothes, came out to greet them himself.

    "Households Officer Chen, your bravery has spread throughout Po Yang in less than two hours."

    Ji Guangxian praised, "I truly didn''t misjudge you, eh? And who is this¡­"

    Wang Zhi bowed with a fist and chuckled, "My surname is Wang, a hundred households in the military, here to ask for a meal from your Excellency."

    "Guests are always wee, please,e in!"

    Ji Guangxian was exceedingly approachable and very generous.

    He even specifically had all the chefs from Eight Treasures Buildinge to his home, and the dishes were also made from top-quality ingredients, including beast meat and even a nourishing Treasure Fish, paired with premium deer blood wine.

    This table of dishes would cost hundreds of pieces of silver.

    ''No poison.''

    After acquiring "Recognize Medicine," Chen Sansi could identify any medicine-rted ingredients, naturally including poisons.

    If anyone dared to poison the food, he could spot it at a nce.

    He didn''t hesitate and started eating the Treasure Fish with his chopsticks.

    Wang Zhi, not to be outdone, ate greasily.

    The two were so engrossed in eating and drinking that Ji Guangxian tried to speak several times but couldn''t find the right moment.

    He waited until they had eaten their fill before finally speaking up, "Households Officer Chen, have you considered my offer to leave Po Yang with me?"

    "Lord Prefect, didn''t you promise me a secret medicine?"

    Chen Sansi said bluntly.

    "Bring the items here!"

    Ji Guangxian pped his hands.

    Two beautiful maids brought two wooden barrels, one containing Iron Sand, the other a prepared medicine bath.

    "Truth be told, my ancestors were in the business of medicinal materials, so I also know a bit about medical skills."

    Ji Guangxian said with pride, "Hearing that Households Officer Chen has made breakthroughs in Bone Strengthening and is currently undergoing Skin Training, this medicine is an excellent secret medicine for aiding Skin Training, called ''Condensed Dew Body Forging Soup.'' Its greatest feature is that it not only has the protective effects of ck Jade Ointment but also has a body strengthening and healing effect far superior to ordinary medicine baths, and it can be used until Great Sess in Bone Training. You''ll know once you try!"

    Dan Yuanzhi added, "This is personally brewed by Lord Prefect himself, it took an entire afternoon!"

    "Good."

    Chen Sansi immediately stripped off his clothes, first using the Iron Sand to grind his skin, then jumped into the medicine bath.

    Unlike ordinary medicine baths which are intensely hot.

    This medicine bath, once immersed, had a synergy with ''ck Jade Protective Ointment.'' The medicine seeped into the flesh through the wounds made by the Iron Sand, not only repairing the skin but also nourishing the muscles and bones.

    No wonder with this, one could cling to the high echelons in court!

    "Households Officer Chen."

    Ji Guangxian asked confidently, "How is the effect?"

    "Average!"

    Chen Sansi responded indifferently.

 Chapter 84 Night Out at the Great Wall

    "Ordinary?"

    Ji Guangxian was taken aback.

    "Chen Households, you mustn''t joke."

    Dan Yuanzhi said, "This bucket of medicine bath alone is worth three hundred taels of patterned silver, how could it be ordinary?"

    "It really is ordinary, just that so."

    Chen Shanshi, without attachment, jumped out of the wooden tub.

    This left Ji Guangxian somewhatcking in confidence.

    He rushed to the side of the tub, stretched out his hand to feel the medicinal water, confirming there was no issue.

    He immediately understood the other''s point and said with a smile, "Perhaps the effect of one medicinal bath isn''t apparent, how about this instead¡ª"

    "To express my sincerity, Households Chen cane to my ce three more times for a medicinal bath!

    "Decide after the three times.

    "As long as you agree, the medicinal baths are on the house!

    "Moreover, especially for ''Blood Refining Great Sess'', the Red Tiger Blood Wine, this official still has one jar left, and it''s yours!"

    "Good, then I thank Magistrate Ji!"

    Chen Shanshi sped his hands.

    He then jumped back into the tub without wasting a moment.

    While riding in the carriage, the long spear was also ced such that he could reach it from outside the carriage, and he began practicing martial arts at Magistrate Ji''s house.

    Wang Zhi ate and drank, "Magistrate Ji, this small one toasts to you again!"

    The two stayed until midnight before leaving the Ji Mansion.

    Magistrate Ji also sent a carriage to take them back, with transportation to and from, very thoughtful.

    "My lord."

    Dan Yuanzhi watched as the carriage disappeared at the end of the street, "This youngster hasn''t agreed to your conditions, my lord, why still provide him the medicinal bath?"

    "Yuan Zhi, you don''t understand!"

    As Ji Guangxian touched his beard, he said in an experienced tone, "There''s a saying ''easy to go from frugality to luxury, hard to go from luxury to frugality''. Once he''s enjoyed the ''Condensing Dew Body Forging Soup,'' how could he settle for the remedies at the Households office? He''ll naturallye asking me for it."

    "The lord is brilliant!"

    Dan Yuanzhi suddenly realized.

    ...

    "White Tribulus, Blood Orchid, tiger head fruit..."

    In the carriage, Chen Shanshi was silently calcting the ingredients needed for the ''Condensing Dew Body Forging Soup'' in his mind. He had most of them, only missing one item, "Hundred-year-old ck Ginseng."

    This rare medicinal ingredient, generally hoarded in the various medical stores as a treasured asset.

    No wonder the Condensing Dew Body Forging Soup was so outstanding.

    He nned to gather some when he had time to search around.

    In a few days, he would go to the grasnd to be night watch.

    Night watch, as the name suggests,

    is a spy sent out at night to scout military intelligence.

    In important border areas like Liangzhou and An Ding Prefecture, the night watch would be specially trained instead of being assembled ad hoc.

    The next day.

    The news of the war at the border was causing an uproar.

    In and outside the military camps, people were in a state of anxiety, worrying whether the mes of war could reach Po Yang County.

    "Father has sent a letter."

    Sun Li took out a letter just retrieved from the postal station and said softly, "The letter says that Po Yang might face unexpected incidents and advises us to stay and help."

    "Unexpected incidents?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Chen Shanshi asked, "Are you referring to the Xi River tribe, or..."

    "I don''t know."

    Sun Li shook her head, "It wasn''t specified."

    Sun Buqi was very anxious, snatching the letter while his mouth didn''t stop moving, "How is father? What exactly is the situation in the Northwest Three States?"

    "With thebined forces of the Eight Camps and the twenty-nine garrisons from the Northwest Three Regions, nearly two hundred thousand soldiers, plus father personally going into battle, there shouldn''t be any mishap."

    Sun Li remained calm.

    Not just the siblings.

    The entire Households office, and even Po Yang County, had be anxious.

    If the border conflict turned into a defeat, the influx of alien cavalry into the Central ins meant catastrophe for the civilians, as history clearly stated.

    As a result, the soldiers'' training became much more diligent.

    5 a.m. to 7 a.m.

    Chen Shanshi had just arrived at the encampment when the men below had already begun training.

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 233/500]

    [Utility: Mainstay]

    After thest lesson.

    Everyone obediently followed Xu Wencai''smands, the proficiency of the board rapidly improved, and the basic formation was practiced professionally,parable to well-trained veterans.

    "Xu Wencai."

    Chen Shanshi called the old schr, "Summon all the night watch who will apany me this trip. Train in the ''Small Car Suspension Array'' we discussedst time, to avoid being helpless in case of an emergency on the grasnd."

    The Car Suspension Formation.

    Belongs to cavalry formation.

    Compared to simple and brute assault charges, it emphasizes more on the spacing between cavalry and the coordination of weapons, appearing like rotating wheels in the enemy''s eyes.

    Previously on the grasnd,

    Chen Sansi encountered a group of people who merely surrounded and attacked rashly, without fully utilizing their numerical advantage.

    Otherwise, they would have been more troublesome.

    He also personally joined the training, integrating into the formation.

    Among the five people brought over by Wang Zhi, Xu Bin and Fang Buping were also present.

    It is worth mentioning that Xu Bin had reached minor sess in Blood Refining for many years and had finally achieved great sess, unfortunately, there was no g leader position avable for him.

    Chen Sansi was also short of people, so he conveniently took him under hismand.

    "You kid, you''re starting to take advantage of me?"

    Wang Zhi remembered when he first met him, he was a very honest young man. Now he dared to freeload off the Lord Prefect and didn''t spare him either.

    "That sounds rather distant,"

    Chen Sansi said indifferently, "I''ll trade two military soldiers for him, you won''t be at a loss."

    "Nice try, but I''ll give him to you anyway."

    Wang Zhi grinned with a smile, "Next time we go to Magistrate Ji''s house, remember to call me along."

    "Of course."

    After a few days of training in the Small Car Suspension Array, it was Chen Sansi''s turn to guard the Great Wall again.

    He began to ride back and forth on his horse again.

    Training formations, practicing martial arts, decocting medicine.

    In the meantime, he took another medicinal bath at Magistrate Ji''s house, paired with Spiritual Grain, his cultivation speed continued to climb.

    Ten dayster, when he was relieved of duty, his Cultivation Technique had made significant progression.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear - Advanced (Master)]

    [Progress: 655/1000]

    ¡­

    [Skill: Medical Skill - Ordinary (Entry-level)]

    [Progress: 204/500]

    He didn''t neglect his medical skill either.

    Last of all, was the White Swan Horse.

    "Whoa!"

    Chen Sansi returned to the Great Wall, pulled the reins to stop, and took out the fodder he had prepared in advance.

    Though it''s called fodder, it was actually high-quality feed, containing not just licorice and alfalfa but also corn, beans, and assorted grains.

    Much better than what he had eaten when he was destitute.

    That aside,

    The horse''s appetite was huge, practically needing to eat all the time.

    A warhorse''s diet is equivalent to that of six robust soldiers.

    Maintaining a cavalry, the daily consumption of just grain is enormous.

    For this reason,

    Warhorses were an extremely precious strategic resource for the Central ins Dynasty.

    "We''ve been together for a while now, I should give you a name, what should it be..."

    Chen Sansi struggled with naming.

    As he was troubled,

    The panel floated up.

    [Skill: Horse Control - Advanced (Master)]

    [Progress: (0/500)]

    [Utility: Tarvel 500 miles a day, the precious horse seeks the master]

    Travel 500 miles a day?

    Traveling 500 miles a day is already a top-grade warhorse.

    1000 miles would surely surpass the limit of ordinary horses.

    But since people in this world could cultivate, and there were alien races and animals, there must be extraordinary horses too.

    Just none in Po Yang.

    "No wonder you eat so much!"

    Chen Sansi was more intrigued by the "Seeks Master" ability.

    [Precious Horse Seeks Master: Within a thousand miles, the horse can autonomously find its master,e when called and leave when dismissed.]

    With "Seeks Master," the convenience of using the horse would increase manifold.

    "Alright, for now, I''ll call you Little Xun!"

    Chen Sansi carelessly picked a name.

    More hoofbeats sounded.

    Luo Dongquan, Liu Jinkui, and Wang Zhi, leading their respective Night Patrol Teams, arrived below the city walls.

    "The hour hase."

    Luo Dongquan, seated high on his horseback, said, "Chen Households, quickly gather your men and follow me out of the city to scout!"

    "Understood."

    Chen Sansi bowed with his fists.

    It was early winter, and the cold wind was bleak.

    At midnight, the city gate opened wide.

    The three Night Patrol Teams silently left the city, disappearing into the vast, boundless grasnd.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 85 Ninth Prince Yuwen

    Po Yang Tribal Encampment.

    As a branch of the Yuwen lineage, they were stationed around four hundred li away in the region of Xi River, rtively scattered.

    "Wang Zhi, you don''t need to keep staring at me."

    Luo Dongquan sneered coldly, "I''ve said it before, I have no grudges with Officer Chen. It''s you who''s petty!"

    "Cut the crap!"

    Wang Zhi cursed, "Seven years ago, there was a recruit with good talent. Did you or Zhao Kang notpete with him? Then the man mysteriously died. Did he just evaporate from the world? I''ve disliked you for a long time!"

    "Wang, you need evidence to make usations!"

    Luo Dongquan narrowed his eyes, "And put your position in perspective. I don''t care what your status was in the Eight Camps before, but now, you''re just a Bone Training Hundred Households, while I am Deputy Thousand Households, a Secondary Fifth Rank General of Military Strategy conferred by the court!"

    "Enough with the arguing!"

    Liu Jinkui came out to mediate, "We''re brothers who depend on each other in life and death. What''s there to argue about? Whatever disagreements we have can be resolved over drinks when we return. Luo Qianhu, you should quickly assign the task and not dy any further."

    "Northeast, Northwest, due North."

    Stay connected via empire

    Luo Dongquan pointed in three directions, "Our three night watch units will each be responsible for scouting one of these directions. Two dayster, we must regroup here before midnight ¨C do not bete! Our missions cover different areas, so Wang, this should ease your worries, right?"

    "Hmph, who knows what you''re really nning."

    The three teams dispersed.

    A distance of four hundred li is neither too far nor too close.

    With the speed of the White Swan Horse, they can reach their destination in less than half a day.

    But they were scouts, and speed wasn''t the top priority.

    The most important thing was to gather intelligence and return alive.

    Advancing rashly could very likely lead to discovery by the barbarian cavalry.

    If they were discovered and surrounded by arge number of cavalry, not even their bodies would be found.

    The night watch''s duty to not return isn''t just about spending the whole night outside; it also implies the possibility of leaving no trace behind, not even bones.

    That''s why Liu Jinkui cursed and swore when he learned that they were sent out to scout.

    Sadly, such a task must be carried out by the elite.

    "Where to next?"

    Soon, they encountered their first task.

    Determining the route.

    It was essential not only to sessfully locate the barbarian tribes'' exact living areas but also to do so undetected ¨C far from an easy feat.

    Chen Sansi still remembered.

    In his previous life, when reading history out of boredom, there was a saying from the Han Dynasty: it''s hard for Li Guang to be a marquis.

    This general was brave and skilled inbat, distinguished in merit, and just short of sufficient military achievements to be bestowed a marquis. Every time he went on an expedition, he would either encounter the main enemy forces or return without merit.

    One very significant reason for this.

    Was the difficulty in discerning directions in the Great Desert, which relied heavily on luck.

    Yet this was not an issue.

    For him.

    Hunters traversing the forest daily rely crucially on their sense of direction.

    Not to mention that Chen Sansi had an eagle eye; even in pitch-ck darkness where one couldn''t see their own hand, he could still clearly discern every detail around, such as the horse hoof prints trampled on the ground right now.

    "We have to detour. If we continue straight this way, we might run straight into the barbarians."

    "Really?"

    While somewhat skeptical, Wang Zhi could only lead his men to follow along.

    They pushed forward two hundred li overnight.

    During that time, Chen Sansi discovered traces of human activity several times, which became increasingly dense.

    After dawn, they found a secluded ce to rest.

    Such training.

    The proficiency in tracking and concealing was rapidly improving.

    [Tracking and Concealing (small achievement)]

    [Progress: 605/1000]

    Chen Sansi had not expected that his hunting skills could also be applied to warfare.

    He munched on the jerky he carried, "In this direction, there''s an eight or nine out of ten chance that it''s the main settlement of the barbarian tribes. Old Wang, what do you think is the likelihood of the Po Yang tribal encampment sending reinforcements?"

    "Very small."

    Wang Zhi leaned against a rock, drinking his liquor, "Because there''s no need. Even if the four grasnd ns unite, their forces are still limited. Concentrating their troops to attack the open and t terrain of the Northwest Three States might not be enough.

    "Diverting troops to attack Yunzhou is already peculiar, let alone Po Yang County. I''m saying all this, you understand, right?"

    "I understand."

    Chen Sansi had studied maps and sand tables.

    The true stronghold of Yunzhou is An Ding Prefecture.

    Even if they take down Po Yang, without capturing An Ding Prefecture, they can''t hold the strategic pass, and the follow-up supply of troops and provisions would be a huge problem.

    Indeed, as Wang Zhi had said, attacking An Ding Prefecture was strange enough.

    The difficulty of attacking the Northwest Three States and Yunzhou were not even on the same level.

    The cost-effectiveness was extremely low.

    So Chen Sansi also felt something was off, which prompted his question.

    Immortal Treasure.

    It was leaked from the Tuoba Tribe!

    If such great efforts were made, they could be rted to the Immortal Treasure.

    Of course.

    These were just spections for now.

    If the Po Yang encampment also sent reinforcements, they could confirm this spection.

    Whether it is rted or not.

    A great battle is approaching.

    Chen Sansi''s current realm was still too weak.

    He didn''t dare to waste a moment and continued to cultivate while resting, consuming dry food. The spiritual grain and remaining medicinal strength inside him did not slow down his progress.

    After nearly midday had passed.

    The group continued onward.

    In the next two hundred li, even Wang Zhi and his men could discern the traces of human life; they often saw flocks of cattle, sheep, and herdsmen from afar. Finally, as darkness fell.

    Tent after tent of felt canvas appeared at the edge of their vision.

    From a distance, it was evident that the settlement was not justprised of herdsmen. There were also armored soldiers and bright torches, with rigorous guard.

    "We can''t approach on horseback any closer."

    Chen Sansi noticed that another hundred meters forward, there were patrolling cavalry. Once discovered, there would be no escape.

    He observed the patrol patterns of the cavalry and the surrounding terrain and soon made a judgement, "You all keep watch around here, I''ll try to sneak in and take a look."

    Withoutpleting the mission,

    they wouldn''t be able to report back.

    "Giddy up!"

    Chen Sansi quietly urged his horse forward, taking a detour until he reached the outermost perimeter of the settlement, hanging the reed-leaf long spear on the back of the horse, "Little Xun, I will call for you when I need you!"

    The White Swan Horse seemed to understand and nodded its head.

    "Alright!"

    Chen Sansi, with his bow and arrows on his back, perfectly blended into the darkness, skillfully avoiding patrolling cavalry. Hey in ambush at the edge, seized the opportunity to shoot and kill a barbarian soldier who came out to relieve himself, and changed into the barbarian''s attire, slinging a curved de over his shoulder.

    This was just a cover.

    He didn''t really n to pretend to be a barbarian.

    In fact, as he infiltrated the felt tents, no one noticed him at all.

    "Even so, not having a long spear in hand really undermines my sense of security!"

    The reed-leaf long spear was toorge and conspicuous to bring inside.

    Chen Sansi gripped the standard-issue curved de of the barbarians.

    Even though his level was high here, and it wouldn''t matter much that the weapon was not his preferred type, hisbat effectiveness would inevitably be greatly reduced.

    It seems that in the future, to cope with special environments, I should train with a short weapon as well.

    On the battlefield, it could also prevent enemies from getting close!

    Martial arts practice is for advancing levels.

    But I already have a high level, so if I train in other cultivation techniques, I should progress faster, right?

    All of that was forter.

    Chen Sansi focused on his current mission, wandering like a ghost through the barbarian camps, collecting all useful information.

    The armaments wereplete.

    The grain stores were full.

    The troop strength¡­

    Was more than two thousand!

    In just one camp alone, a rough estimate put the number at three thousand people.

    Moreover, the Xi River Tribe wasn''t all gathered together. The directions Luo Dongquan and Liu Jinkui headed to would likely encounter camps too, although possibly with fewer numbers than the main camp.

    "Greetings, Prince¡ª"

    Prince?

    Chen Sansi hid in the darkness, moving closer in the direction the voice came from.

    He saw on the open ground in front of the Central Army Tent,

    All the barbarian soldiers kneeling en masse.

    Avishly dressed young barbarian, covered with gold decorations, strode forward with a jeweled sword at his waist.

    "Greetings to the Ninth Prince!"

    The tribal chief and Thousand Households, with one hand across his chest, knelt on the ground to salute, "Your Highness, why have youe? Your servant has not received any notice!"

    "That does not matter!"

    With his hands behind his back and chin lifted, the Ninth Prince said, "I heard that in half a month, you will attack Po Yang County. I havee specifically to support you."

    "To support?"

    Pane crossed the tribal chief''s face, "How can we dare to have Your Highness support us when you are so precious and valuable?"

    "I said I came to support, do you not understand?"

    The Ninth Prince''s face changed as he rebuked sternly, "It''s one thing for Liangzhou to stop me, but are you telling me that I can''t even use the small Po Yang County as a practice ground?"

    "Of course, Your Highness can¡­"

    The chief spoke carefully, "It''s just that your servant is merely a refining organs general, and I fear I may not be able to ensure yourplete safety. Please return promptly, Your Highness!"

    "Insolence!"

    The Ninth Prince bellowed in anger, "I have been practicing swordsmanship for three years and have yet to kill a person from Sheng. If I don''t practice warfare, wouldn''t all my training be in vain?! If you, a Thousand Households, dare to stop me as well, I will have your head."

    "..."

    The tribal chief fell silent, and after a long while, he sighed, "Since Your Highness insists on staying, your servant dares not object."

    "That''s more like it."

    The Ninth Prince was immediately in high spirits.

    "ng¡ª"

    He suddenly drew his treasured sword from his waist, its de shining with golden light in the flicker of the mes and disyed it before the people, "Do you recognize this ''Zhenyue Sword''? This sword was taken from the Emperor of the Central ins by my Yuwen n five hundred years ago!

    "When the Great Khan reached adulthood, he bestowed it upon me!

    "I will use it to y generals of the Sheng and restore the glory of the young warriors of the grasnds!

    "From this moment on, I will take immediatemand of the Xi River Tribe. I will personally lead the attack on Po Yang County!"

    "At yourmand!"

    Watching the gleam of the sword''s edge, the tribal chief felt intimidated and dared not speak further, hurriedly escorting the Prince into the Central Army Tent to rest. At the same time, he quietly instructed his subordinate, "Send a fast horse at full speed, notify the Great Khan immediately, and say that the Prince hase to us!"

    "Yes!"

    The barbarian took the order and went off.

    Not far away,

    Chen Sansi heard everything loud and clear.

    ''This Prince¡­''

    He felt a certain familiar air about him, resembling someone he knew, someone not quite bright.

    And that sword.

    Even though the light was dim, he saw it clearly.

    Indeed, it was an unmatched treasured sword!

    Even Chen Sansi, who practiced with a spear, couldn''t help but be tempted.

    "Never mind, a refining organs martial artist is guarding it; I can''t get it."

    "The mission is aplished, and the Xi River Tribe indeed has reinforced"

    He quietly retreated, preparing to leave the ce, when suddenly the hum of an rm resonated in his ears.

    "Hum¡ª"

    Sound of horns, the whirring of arrows, and cries of rm mingled together.

    The once tranquil barbarian army camp was suddenly abuzz.

    "Enemy raid!"

    "Five miles outside the main camp, spies from the Sheng Dynasty spotted!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Pursue them, pursue them!"

    "Don''t let a single one escape!"

 Chapter 86 Seize the Enemy General Directly through a Thousand Troops

    With a loud cry breaking the silence of the grasnd, numerous torches were suddenly lit inside and outside the barbarian camp, forming a sea of fire that made the area for miles around as bright as day.

    Chen Sansi was startled.

    He was puzzled, for he was certain he had gone unnoticed.

    It was not until he saw the barbarian soldiers converging in another direction, and heard the content of the shout, that he realized it was not he who had been exposed.

    It was Wang Zhi and the others!

    "How could they be discovered from so far away!"

    Chen Sansi dared not linger and took advantage of the chaos to leave the camp.

    But "Tracking and Hiding" was not the same as an invisibility technique.

    The camp wasn''t a lush jungle filled with hiding ces everywhere; the barbarians had rxed their vignce earlier and the dim light had helped, but as he moved against the flow, eventually someone noticed him.

    "Over there, everyone is chasing the enemy out of the city, what are you doing?!"

    "Shwoo¡ª"

    Chen Sansi didn''t bother with words and shot the man dead with an arrow.

    "There''s a Man from Dasheng! Over here!"

    "Shwoo¡ª"

    Chen Sansi kept shooting the barbarians that came at him, while blowing a loud whistle. His white swan horse had been waiting for a while, neighing as it charged over.

    "Good horse!"

    He mounted the horse, and in a few seconds, he had left the pursuers far behind.

    About three miles out,

    Chen Sansi encountered Wang Zhi and his group.

    They were retreating towards the right direction, with dozens of barbarian cavalry in pursuit.

    "How were you discovered, why didn''t you go back, but this way?!"

    Chen Sansi shouted from atop his horse.

    "Damn it, no idea!"

    Wang Zhi cursed, "We didn''t even dare to breathe heavily, we definitely weren''t exposed!"

    Xu Bin took over, "Not long after you left, a squad of barbarian cavalry, as if they knew someone was hiding nearby, blocked our retreat in advance and started a carpet-search!"

    "Knew in advance?"

    Chen Sansi thought of something.

    "Luo Dongquan, I curse your ancestors!"

    Wang Zhi was the first to say, "It must be that bastard who leaked information in some way!"

    He had thought, by following ''Brother Shi'', there wouldn''t be any mishaps.

    Unexpectedly, that surnamed Luo dared to pull such a stunt!

    "Does such pettiness really exist in this world?"

    Chen Sansi found it iprehensible.

    Initially, he was clearly the oppressed, yet it was made out as if he was stealing something from someone else''s home.

    It was the strong bullying the weak, with no logic at all!

    "Da-da-da-da-da¡ª"

    To their side front, a group of Barbarian cavalry on patrol nearby, hearing the noise, rushed over to block the path.

    "Puchi¡ª"

    Chen Sansi took the lead on his horse, stabbing to death the small g leading them and yelled, "Form up, form up!"

    For half a month,

    they had been drilling daily.

    The formation was practiced until it was second nature.

    Eleven warhorses effortlessly formed a circr array, charging into the ranks of the blocking cavalry.

    The Small Car Suspension Array.

    Rather than like a wheel,

    It was more like a circr saw!

    Each horse and rider was a de on the gear.

    Among them, Chen Sansi and Wang Zhi were the sharpest two.

    Xu Bin and Fang Buping came next, with the rest following.

    With vignt protection from all sides, there was no worry of sneak attacks.

    Moreover, the twelve men shifted and alternated their positions.

    Those with lower cultivation were mainly acting as rear guards against surprise attacks.

    Chen Sansi could focus all his attention on the enemies ahead, and with each thrust of his long spear, he imed the life of an enemy.

    The group of twenty barbarian cavalry gathered were,

    Not a few roundster, all in to thest man.

    Zhuang Yi, Zhao Qiao, and the others experienced killing for the first time.

    But seeing Chen Sansi''s back, they felt supported, with no panic at all. The Small Car Suspension Array was maintained near perfect.

    Mainstay!

    With the Main General present, all were calm in the face of danger!

    However.

    Impressivebat skills notwithstanding,

    The time dyed was enough for the rest of the pursuers to surround them.

    "Whirring¡ª"

    From all around, came darkness like a pressing wave.

    The number of people was unknown, the number of weapons, too; only a vast, boundless throng was visible.

    "Hold the formation, don''t panic!"

    Chen Sansi utilized the ability of "Night as Bright as Day" to look for weak links in the encirclement and led the breakout.

    Unfortunately,

    This was enemy territory!

    More so, the hearnd of the enemy!

    Escape was not so easily achieved.

    Hundreds of barbarian cavalryunched an attack on them.

    As the Car Suspension Formation revolved and attempted to break through,

    The reaping speed was ultimately getting slower and slower.

    The fallen bodies in front were nearly enough to trip the warhorses!

    "Go¡ª"

    The enemy Generals followed one after another, speeding on horse from a hundred yards away.

    "Households! Refining Organ Martial Artists!"

    Chen Sansi recognized at a nce.

    There were hundreds more pursuers behind the tribe leader!

    Even if Chen Sansi''s Qi-Blood were extensive and his Small Car Suspension Arraybat skill formidable, he couldn''t possibly be a match for a Refining Organ General, let alone the oing cavalry.

    "It seems, today is really the day I meet my downfall!"

    Wang Zhi beheaded an enemy g-bearer with a single blow, his voice tinged with madness, "My death is insignificant! Brother Shi, you cannot die! Your horse is fast, we''ll tear an opening for you; you might still have a chance to escape. Once you get back, devote yourself to your cultivation and avenge us!"

    "Mr. Chen, Brother Shi! You go!"

    Zhuang Yi and Zhao Qiao nearly said in unison.

    "Damn your sentimentality, nobody needs to die!"

    As Chen Sansi fought, he asked, "Fatty Wang, what stage were you at before?"

    "What are you asking this for?!"

    Confused, Wang Zhi replied, "Whatever my previous prowess was, it''s useless now!"

    "What I mean is..."

    Chen Sansi thrust his gun butt backward, impaling an enemy soldier, "That Refining Organ, how long can you hold him off? After all, you''ve fallen from a higher realm; you should be much stronger than an average Bone Forging Perfection, right?"

    "Naturally, my realm may have fallen but my saber technique remains. A usual Bone Forging Perfection is nowhere near my match! This barbarian leader is not as good as Xiang Tingchun! I can hold him off for a while!"

    Wang Zhi, puzzled, "What are you nning to do?"

    "Hold them off! Keep the formation intact at all costs! I have a way to get you all home!"

    Before anyone could react,

    they saw Chen Sansi swiftly turn his horse around and gallop in the opposite direction.

    That was,

    the barbarian base camp!

    "Have you gone mad?!"

    Wang Zhi wanted to stop him but was unable to.

    "Hmm? Stop right there!"

    Upon seeing the White Horse General change direction, the barbarian tribe leader quickly understood and immediately spurred his horse to chase after him, "To your death¡ª"

    "ng¡ª"

    A loud metallic shing noise erupted, shooting sparks into the darkness.

    Under the terrifying strength of the Refining Organ Martial Artist, Wang Zhi, along with his horse, were forced to lean back, his arms trembling endlessly, but at least he blocked his opponent, "You barbarian scum, where do you think you''re going?!"

    "A mere Bone Forger dares to stop me? You''re seeking death!"

    ...

    "Stop him, stop him!"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi broke through in the opposite direction and, thanks to the divine speed of the White Swan Horse, after killing two Blood Refining Officers, nobody could catch up to him. As he approached the enemy base camp, he did not force his way through the well-defended main gate but headed to the weakest spot in the west. The White Swan Horse leapt over the two-meter-tall stake fence, bursting into the camp filled with tents.

    Not long ago, he had figured out theyout of the camp,

    This position was manned by infantry.

    Infantry meant they couldn''t catch up with or stop him!

    The cavalry were on their way.

    It would take about a minute.

    Once surrounded, Chen Sansi would surely die.

    But within one minute, reaching the destination before the encirclement wasplete was a chance for survival!

    "Charge¡ª¡ª" Explore more at empire

    Chen Sansi killed seven or eight infantrymen in session, breaking into the Central Army Tent in just over fifty seconds.

    Most of the soldiers along the way only saw a white shadow sh by, stirring up a cold gust of wind, having no idea what had just happened.

    "Who?!"

    Inside the tent.

    The barbarian prince had just drawn his sword upon hearing themotion when he saw a white war horse, knocking aside the soldiers guarding the tent and breaking in.

    "ng¡ª¡ª"

    He drew his sword and stood up: "Who goes there!"

    "Protect His Highness!"

    The Bone Forger who was left by the tribal leader to provide close protection to the prince immediately seized the weapon in his hand.

    "Bang¡ª¡ª"

    But before he could react,

    arrows shot out fiercely.

    The Bone Forger had no time to dodge and thought to block with his arm, but was undoubtedly shot through the heart and died on the spot, with no chance even to exchange blows.

    "To this prince''s death¡ª¡ª"

    The barbarian prince was no pushover. He quickly reacted to the sudden situation, took a big step forward seizing the opening, and his Zhenyue Sword, glittering with cold light, shed towards the Dasheng military officer on horseback.

    Reed leaf long spear and Zhenyue Sword made contact, emitting a clear ringing sound.

    The prince took several steps back, his treasure sword trembling and buzzing in his hand, nearly slipping from his grasp under the terrible force.

    "What a mighty sword!"

    The opponent was probably a small achievement in Bone Training, not as strong as Chen Sansi, but this strike actually notched his reed leaf gun de!

    "Protect His Highness¡ª¡ª"

    At the same time.

    The Central Army Tent waspletely surrounded.

    Countless archers and crossbowmen, threeyers inside and three outside, but due to the close distance between the two men inside, they dared not shoot.

    A Bone Forging Perfection General staying behind with a long-handled broadsword rushed in, thinking to ambush from behind. He had just approached within seven steps when a silver sh appeared before his eyes.

    His body hair stood on end, and he instinctively swung his sword to chop it down, barely managing to split the silver sh before it could bite his cheek.

    "Such a swift spear!"

    After just one exchange, the barbarian officer was drenched in cold sweat.

    He braced himself, ready for the next move.

    But the other side didn''t bother with him; the target was still the prince.

    "ng ng ng ng ng ng!"

    Chen Sansi''s long spear in his hand rained down like a torrential downpour on his opponent, the sound of striking metal akin to forging iron. He could hear more and more people entering the tent, closing in from behind, their killing intent vast like an ocean, overwhelming!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    The blood of the Dragon-Elephant surged wildly within him, his long spear transforming into a silver phantom, the blood vessels and meridians in his arm resembling an overloaded machine, so hot they seemed ready to ignite at any moment.

    The prince could no longer withstand such a fierce assault, his right hand''s palm bleeding profusely, his entire arm nearly numb, unable to hold the sword hilt, allowing the Zhenyue Sword to be flipped into the air.

    At the same time, the reed leaf long spear tore through the flesh, chipping bone, piercing right through his shoulder.

    The Zhenyue Sword in the air was firmly caught by another hand.

    Chen Sansi reached the prince from behind an instant before the barbarian officers couldunch their attack, cing the sharp de of the Zhenyue Sword against the prince''s neck, a thread of fresh blood trickling out, his eyes, red with fury, looked at the dense barbarian soldiers:

    "All of you, back off!"

 Chapter 87 Returning Home Wrapped in Horsehide

    "Zzzzt¡ª"

    The Barbarian Thousand Households found an opportunity, shing his de across the corpulent body of the Sheng Dynasty military officer. The de tore through the armor, skinned the flesh, sliced through muscle, and finally was halted by the tough bones, leaving a deep gash.

    The opponent found the right moment and also swung his de.

    The saber technique was so flexible that even though he was a Refining Organ Martial Artist, he barely dodged it, leaving a shallow cut on his face.

    "Get lost!"

    The Barbarian Thousand Households swung his de again, forcing the opponent back before he grabbed the reins and rode off, not willing to linger in battle.

    This chubby Hundred Households was rather formidable.

    Having achieved Bone Forging Perfection and being able to exchange so many moves with his refining organs skill, his saber technique was masterful, not at all like someone from the Bone Training Realm.

    Killing him would likely take much effort.

    He was out of time.

    The young officer on the white horse charged toward the main camp.

    Although it was uncertain how someone just at the Bone Training level could be so audacious¡ªlikely to be surrounded and killed¡ªit was still essential to hurry back.

    The prince was the Great Khan''s most beloved youngest son.

    If something truly went wrong,

    all the heads of the Xi River tribe wouldn''t be enough to make amends.

    "Hum¡ª"

    Just as he turned, the sound of a shing de echoed again.

    "Do you so wish to die?!"

    The Barbarian Thousand Households, thunderously furious, blocked the attack with his de then quickly turned it into a sh, ripping another gash on his opponent''s body. His left fist, like a siege giant hammer, smashed thunderously into the chest.

    Wang Zhi flew backward and fell off his horse, causing the frightened horse to flee.

    "Cough cough¡­"

    He spat out a mouthful of blood, seemingly oblivious to the pain as he immediately scrambled up, hurling his Mo de, severing the hooves of the Thousand Households'' horse that was attempting to return to the camp.

    "Hiss¡ª"

    The horse screamed in agony.

    The Barbarian Thousand Households stepped on the horse''s back and leapt off,nding smoothly.

    His irritation unabated, he knew he had to kill this man.

    At the main camp, there were at least others who had achieved Bone Forging Perfection and two thousand left to guard it; dealing with a young Hundred Households shouldn''t be a problem. Even if one-on-onebat didn''t work, they could surround and kill him within a short time.

    Prior to this, he might have been overly concerned.

    "I''m really done for¡­"

    Wang Zhi wiped the blood from his mouth with the back of his hand, picked up a curved saber from the ground, and chopped down a Barbarian cavalry trying to sneak attack from behind. He then faced a Refining Organ General with a welding de, estimating he couldst about ten more rounds before likely dying.

    On the other side.

    The Small Car Suspension Array had lost its two sharpest des, reducing itsbat effectiveness significantly.

    Out of ten men, only six remained.

    Zhuang Yi had already been struck by three des; though no vital points had been hit, he was near exhaustion.

    Fang Buping and Zhao Qiao were also severely wounded.

    Xu Bin and Zhu Tong were fine for the moment but were depleting rapidly and would soon be easy prey.

    "Uncle Zhao, dying this way is worth it!"

    Zhuang Yi strained to keep the formation intact, "It''s better than being bullied to death."

    "It''s just a pity for Shi¡­"

    Zhao Qiao, the weakest in cultivation, had survived this long only because of being looked after.

    Amid the battlefield of shing des, they didn''t even have time forst words.

    Essentially, they were in a no-win situation.

    At that very moment,

    a voice full of deadly energy shouted, "Everyone, stop!"

    From the distant rear,

    a white horse slowly advanced.

    On its back.

    Chen Sansi held a spear in one hand and a sword in the other, with a half-dead Ninth Prince Yu Wen clutched in his arms. The dense barbarian cavalry automatically parted to open a path for him, none daring to make a reckless move.

    "You..."

    The pupils of the Barbarian Thousand Households trembled continuously, as if doubting what he was seeing.

    Several Bone Forgers had stayed in the military camp.

    Are they all... useless?!

    It''s not that he had been negligent; it was just a Bone Forger. How could it be possible!

    "Everyone, stop!"

    The Barbarian Thousand Households had to yell, "Everyone, stop!"

    The chaotic battlefield suddenly fell silent.

    "Who is this person?"

    Wang Zhi leaned on his single-ded saber, somewhat unclear about the situation.

    Had Chen Sansi rushed back to the main camp just to capture this person?

    "Your Highness!"

    Hearing the barbarian''s address for the hostage.

    Where did Wang Zhi not understand?

    This damn...

    Seems like a prince!

    That''s really bizarre!

    Xi River Tribe, on par with Po Yang, also belonged to a barbarian''s god-forsaken ce. How could there be a prince?!

    "Well done, we''ve caught the Great Khan''s bastard!"

    Zhu Tongughed heartily.

    Everyone except him felt not the slightest bit of tension from start to finish, merely wielding his hammer, and while fighting, he even faintly touched the threshold of a breakthrough.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    As for dying, by the time he realized he might die, Chen Sansi had already returned with the prince to rescue them.

    For him, everything was very peaceful.

    "What a big heart..."

    Xu Bin envied, still feeling anxious.

    Just one step away!

    They, these people, were about to die under the chaotic des!

    "Let us go!"

    Chen Sansi said sternly.

    They were merely a squad formed by two Hundred Households called night watch.

    Compared to the life of a prince, they were too worthless.

    "Save me... save me!"

    Ninth Prince Yu Wen, his face pale and trembling, said, "Thousand Households, save me!"

    "Alright, you can go!"

    The Barbarian Thousand Households restrained himself, "But the rest must stay!"

    "Don''t negotiate with me!"

    Chen Sansi nced, "There are seven of us, not one less! If anyone is missing, I''ll chop off his finger first!"

    "Don''t... don''t chop off my fingers, I still need to practice my sword!"

    The prince''s eyes brimmed with tears, regretting his demand to go to war.

    Why are all those in Dasheng such fierce figures?

    The military officers around his age were able to prate the enemy camp and capture the main general, it was simply terrifying!

    That Sun Xiangzong, he must be some kind of three-headed and six-armed monster!

    "Why aren''t you giving the orders yet?!"

    Chen Sansi tightened his grip on the sword''s edge.

    "Ah¡ª"

    The prince screamed in fright, "That Thousand Households, I don''t know what you''re called, just listen to him, let them go. If I am missing a finger, my father will ughter your Xi River Tribe!"

    "All retreat!"

    The Barbarian Thousand Households issued an order.

    Chen Sansi and several others gathered, "Bring the bodies of our fallen brothers!"

    From his decision to his aim of capturing the prince alive, it only took a few minutes back and forth.

    A few minutes.

    Four men had died in the process.

    Among them were his subordinates Li Dazhi and Xia Erniu.

    In the battlefield, sacrifices are inevitable.

    There''s nothing to be sentimental about.

    If there was no opportunity, then be it, but since there was one, it was best to bring the bodies back.

    "Okay!"

    Zhu Tong and Fang Buping immediately did as told, bringing two horses to carry the bodies.

    "You still have the leisure to move bodies?"

    The Barbarian Thousand Households clenched his fists till they turned white.

    "Back off!"

    The Ninth Prince himself gave the order without Chen Sansi''s instruction, "Everyone, do not follow. Back off two miles, two miles!!!"

    Damn...

    Chen Sansi cursed in his heart, suspecting that this coward would probably help shout to open the gates if he were brought to the Yuwen Family''s Great Capital.

    Of course.

    Having such an opponent spared him a lot of worries.

    "Back off!"

    The Barbarian Thousand Householdsmanded.

    Chen Sansi and his six men rode their horses back the way they came.

    The journey of four hundred miles could not be traversed at full speed like before.

    From midnight to dawn, and from dawn to night, they missed the appointed rendezvous time with night watch.

    ...

    Po Yang.

    The Great Wall.

    "My lord, night watch has returned!"

    "Oh?"

    Zhao Kang ascended the watchtower and spent a significant amount of time verifying identities before allowing the others toe under the wall for further inspection.

    He sharply noticed something amiss, "Why are there fewer people? Aren''t Hundred Households Chen and Hundred Households Wang back?" Explore new worlds at empire

    "Not sure."

    In the darkness, one could not see Luo Dongquan''s expression, "The appointed midnight rendezvous passed without a sign of them, we can''t just keep waiting, right? Zhao Kang, swiftly open the gates, we have urgent intelligence to report to the Lord Thousand Households!"

    "Got it."

    Zhao Kang ordered, "Open the city gates!"

    "Weng Long¡ª"

    The heavy city gates opened.

    More than twenty riders returned to the territory, heading straight towards the military camp.

    Only Liu Jinkui stayed behind, calling out to the city walls, "Hundred Households Zhao, keep a sharp lookout. Perhaps Old Wang and Old Chen will return shortly!"

    "Okay, rest assured."

    Zhao Kang agreed outwardly but sighed inwardly.

    The matter of the rendezvous, unless there was a major mishap, wouldn''t usually be dyed.

    And this mishap implied they were discovered by Barbarian cavalry...

    The chances of their return were very slim.

    ...

    "Uncle!"

    Song Yan rode close to Deputy Thousand Households, whispering, "Did something happen to Mr. Chen and the others?"

    "How would I know?"

    Luo Dongquan scoffed coldly, "A mishap isn''t so bad, it''s just right for you to take over the position at Selected Point!"

    "Uncle, I''m not capable..."

    Song Yancked any fighting spirit, "I''m far behind Mr. Chen. He has mastered the Bone Strengthening Skill, while I have just barely achieved minor sess in Blood Refining."

    "Minor sess in Blood Refining in four months, is that slow?"

    Luo Dongquan spoke resentfully, "You''re not worse than most people; it''s just that you encountered a freak! After he dies, your joining the Eight Camps is certain."

    The less naturally gifted someone is, the more they need to struggle.

    Take his nephew, for example.

    If he remained in Po Yang County, his highest achievement might be Refining Internal.

    But if he went to the Governor Mansion, even as an outer sect disciple, he could achieve Hua Jin at the very least, perhaps even higher!

    How could he not struggle?

    As for what Xiang Tingchun said...

    He believed it only halfway!

    Something about His Majesty targeting the Governor Mansion.

    Was it even significant?

    Even if not for the Selected Point.

    It was necessary for thorough eradication!

    In dealing with issues, one must be resolute.

    "Yan''er, do you think I''m going overboard? Do you feel it''s entirely unnecessary to escte to a life-or-death conflict?"

    Luo Dongquan gave a bitter smile, "Let me tell you a story.

    "Many years ago, when Elder Yan was still young and going to the capital for an exam, he identally bumped into a then-current Third-Rank official.

    "That official didn''t do much to him, just scolded Elder Yan as a country bumpkin.

    "Fifteen yearster, when Elder Yan came into power, he found an excuse to involve the official in a major case. Not only was his family exiled and their property confiscated, but his daughters were also deliberately sold to the cheapest brothels...

    "Perhaps Chen Sansi might forget the past unpleasantness, or perhaps not, but I cannot gamble, I cannot leave it to fate.

    "Do you understand now?"

    Song Yan seemed thoughtful, "I understand."

    "Hmm."

    Luo Dongquan nodded, satisfied.

    Months ago, from when he tried to deceive Chen Sansi into giving up the Selected Point position, they were enemies, and even if there was just a one in ten thousand chance of retaliation, it needed to be nipped in the bud!

    That was much better than having one day to hear that someone from the Eight Camps had be a Great General and spending days in fear.

    Luckily, it all ended!

    "Po Yang will soon see arge army''s assault, you must perform well then!"

    Luo Dongquan instructed.

    ...

    Military cantonment, residence.

    In the cold, dark courtyard, hung twonterns, and a basin of charcoal fire zed.

    Gu Xin and the pregnant Mrs. Tong sat around the charcoal fire, quietly waiting for news.

    Sun Li was practicing sabre techniques in the courtyard.

    "Howe there''s been no news for several days? Before, no matter what he did, he would at least leave some dependable information."

    Mrs. Tong spoke nervously, "My man hasn''t actually fought in any battles... but he should be okay following your Brother Shi, right?"

    "Yes."

    Gu Xin''s delicate fingers tightly clutched together, "Definitely, there won''t be any issues."

    Night watch operations were confidential, naturally not informing family members.

    Sun Li knew, but she couldn''t say; she just reassured, "Don''t worry. My junior brother''s level in Po Yang''s domain, there aren''t many who could harm him."

    "Bang!"

    The words had just ended.

    The courtyard gate was kicked open.

    Sun Buqi came in, flustered, "Sis, something''s wrong! I was guarding inside the military camp and saw with my own eyes, the other two teams returned from outside the city, but Chen Sansi was nowhere to be seen!"

 Chapter 88 Emperor Longqing

    "What?"

    Sun Li sheathed her sword, "They haven''t returned?"

    "Right!"

    Sun Buqi nodded heavily, "I asked that Liu Households Commander, and he said they waited at the rendezvous for the time it takes half an incense stick to burn, but then they returned ahead of time."

    "Sister Tong!"

    Listening to the conversation,

    Tong Family copsed on the spot in the yard, nearly fainting away.

    Gu Xin supported her, asking, "Li, has something... happened?"

    "Don''t panic just yet."

    Sun Li soothed, "They might have lost their way, or something dyed them. If we wait a little longer, they might return."

    "Lost their way?"

    Gu Xin seized on the key point, "Did Brother Shi and the others leave the Great Wall?"

    How could she not understand her man?

    Roaming around Tiger Head Mountain day and night, how could they possibly lose their way?

    If they were said to be lost, it could only be on the unfamiliar grasnds.

    "Mhm."

    Sun Li acknowledged, "Let''s wait some more."

    The atmosphere of the residence suddenly seemed to freeze over.

    Until dawn, there was not the slightest noise.

    Toward thetter part of the night, even Xu Wencai led Wang Li and the others to inquire about the situation.

    With women at home, it wasn''t convenient to approach, so they just stood far outside the gate.

    "Could Mr. Chen have met with some mishap?"

    Wang Li''s face was grave as he touched the sword at his waist, "Old Xu, say something. Both Vice Thousand Households Luo and Households Commander Liu have returned, but the only one who hasn''t is the Lord."

    Xu Wencai paced back and forth, "Don''t panic, don''t panic! The Lord has good fortune; nothing will happen to him!"

    Though that was said,

    An entire night passed.

    Until the sky began to brighten, the encampment remained ominously quiet.

    "I''ve always known, Tang Ruoshan is useless!"

    Sun Buqi cursed aloud, "He caused the death of Third Brother back then, and now he can''t even protect Sansi! That Xi River tribe only has one Refining Organ Martial Artist!"

    "Xi River..."

    Gu Xin''s heart went cold.

    The people of Po Yang County knew all too well.

    The barbarians who came years ago to ughter their viges were from the Xi River tribe.

    Were they sent to the enemy''s main camp?

    And have yet to return?

    Could it be...

    Sun Buqi anxiously said, "Sister, what do we do? Shall we borrow some troops and go look for them?"

    "Nonsense!"

    Sun Li scolded, "Can you resist a thousand troops and ten thousand horses? Wait longer, and if they don''t return today..."

    She paused, "Then I can only say, we were fated to meet this junior brother but not destined to keep him."

    The words were cruel.

    But such was the reality.

    Soldiers.

    Who amongst them doesn''t die?

    Let alone Chen Sansi.

    Even in the Eight Camps of the past, there were countless talented individuals who died before they could grow up.

    "Sigh!"

    Sun Buqi stamped his foot.

    But that was the fact he had to ept.

    "Wuuu..."

    Tong Family wept bitterly, "Always insisting on going to war, always ranting about earning merits at home, without considering if he possesses the ability. The child isn''t even born yet..."

    "..."

    Gu Xin''s eyes reddened, but she did not cry or make a fuss.

    She simply returned to the room to fetch her needlework and sat on a stone stool, meticulously sewing stitch by stitch.

    The East began to light up softly.

    In people''s hearts, hope was extinguished.

    "Let''s go."

    Finally, Sun Li couldn''t bear it, "Buqi, youe with me out of the city to look for him."

    "Okay!"

    Sun Buqi had been restless.

    The siblings left the residence, preparing to fetch their horses.

    "Buzz¡ª¡ª"

    It was at that moment.

    A deafening horn sounded, and rolling ck smoke rose up, darkening the sky.

    "Raise three beacon fires, indicate with two on the watchtower, burn three stacks of firewood; it signals an attack by an enemy army of more than two thousand!"

    Sun Buqi recognized the signal.

    ...

    The Great Wall.

    Zhao Kang, responsible for the watch, had stayed awake all night, yet the other Night Patrol Team still hadn''t returned.

    "All dead."

    He shook his head slightly, murmuring to himself, "What''s the use of talent, said to have so much potential, but died before even leaving Po Yang County, with Fatty Wang also gone. This will please many lords back in the city."

    Zhao Kang went back inside the tower, leaned against the wall, and prepared to rest for a bit.

    Just as he closed his eyes, the lookout on the tower shouted loudly.

    "Enemy attack!"

    "Arge army is invading! Arge army is invading!"

    "..."

    "Whatrge army?!"

    Zhao Kang immediately became wide awake, scrambling up the lookout tform using the ropedder.

    He saw, ten miles out on the vast and boundlessnd, a dense mass of Iron Cavalry emerging, numbering at least two thousand!

    The Xi River tribe indeed had two thousand people, but they weren''t all cavalry.

    Had they really reinforced their numbers?

    Zhao Kang was even more baffled.

    Who wages war like this?

    To conquer a city is not the work of a day.

    Even if the Xi River tribe intended to attack Po Yang, they should have chosen a ce to set up camp first, then slowly strategize. Who rides straight toward us on horses, isn''t that akin to courting death?

    Wait a minute!

    They''re chasing someone!

    Zhao Kang squinted hard, trying to make his vision clearer.

    He spotted eight riders ahead of the barbarian horde.

    The barbarian cavalry were chasing these eight riders, and they seemed wary of getting too close, only following from a distance as if they were fearful of something.

    "Charge¡ª¡ª"

    The Households ordered a full army assault.

    The Cavalry arrived at the Great Wall first.

    Xiang Tingchun led the charge onto the city wall, rushing up like the wind, followed closely by Luo Dongquan. Then came Sun Buqi and Sun Li, and finally Wang Li, Wu Da, and others also arrived on their warhorses.

    "What''s happening!"

    Xiang Tingchun climbed up to the lookout tower.

    It was all too sudden.

    He had heard about the Xi River tribe''s reinforcements through Luo Dongquan.

    But it was too soon! They absolutely couldn''t haveunched an attack right away.

    "Sir, it''s... it''s Households Commander Chen and the others!"

    Zhao Kang finally made out the eight riders ahead.

    "The junior brother?"

    Sun Li and others also followed up to the lookout tower.

    Among the leading eight riders, one white horse was particrly conspicuous.

    If not Chen Sansi seated on the horse, who else could it be?

    In front of him, he also held hostage a barbarian-dressed noble youth.

    "A hostage?"

    How could everyone not understand even this much?

    Clearly.

    Chen Sansi and his group had been surrounded by barbarians, but had captured a hostage, threatening the enemy with it to obtain a chance at survival.

    How precious must the hostage be to make two thousand barbarian cavalry hesitate to act recklessly?

    How could such a precious person appear in the Xi River tribe?!

    "How could this..."

    Luo Dongquan subconsciously leaned forward, his arms resting on the crion, stretching his neck to look ahead,

    ...

    "Fall back!"

    After several days and nights of continuos exertion, everyone was already exhausted.

    Even Chen Sansi''s eyes were bloodshot, his voice hoarse, "Fall back five miles!"

    "This young brother."

    The barbarian Thousand Households rode his horse at a distance, following them, "You have reached the border, isn''t it time to return His Highness to us?"

    "Cut the crap, we''ll talk after we enter the city!"

    Chen Sansi indicated for the prince to speak.

    The prince understood andplied, "Do as he says, fall back five miles, give them enough safe distance to enter the city!"

    Under the watch of a thousand pairs of eyes.

    The barbarian cavalry kept retreating and didn''t dare to step forward.

    Chen Sansi led the people, prudently arriving at the city walls.

    "Little junior brother!"

    Sun Li called out to the wall below, "What happened, how did you attract so many cavalrymen!"

    Chen Sansi answered, "We were surrounded by Xi River tribal cavalry during our reconnaissance; fortunately, we had him, which is why we were able to escape by sheer luck!"

    Actually confronted by cavalry.

    In such a situation.

    Yet they were still alive!

    Truly a rare feat in a decade.

    Not only that.

    The people also saw two separate horses carrying bodies, they even brought back the bodies of their deadrades!

    A remarkable feat!

    Xiang Tingchun hurriedly inquired, "Who is this person?!"

    "Probably a prince, I suppose!"

    Chen Sansimanded, "Introduce yourself to everyone."

    "Alright... alright! You, all of you listen!"

    The prince said, "I am the Ninth Prince from the Yuwen n! If you dare to kill me, my father the Great Khan will certainly blood-wash Po Yang County."

    A prince!

    "The Ninth Prince?"

    Sun Buqi muttered, "I have heard that the Great Khan of the Yuwen n has ten sons, but adores only the Ninth Prince, said to be grooming him as the next Great Khan. He should be staying in the Great Capital, how did he end up in the Xi River tribe and get captured alive by Sansi."

    Capturing a prince alive...

    Xiang Tingchun''s expression became excited.

    A remarkable feat!

    Who would have thought.

    Sending out a few Night Patrol Teams.

    Could actually bring back a Yuwen n future Great Khan alive!

    What a tremendous feat it was!

    Subordinates achieving great sess

    The superiors would also bask in the glory!

    "Good, good, good!"

    Xiang Tingchun repeated the word ''good'' three times, "Open the city gate, quick, quickly bring Chen Household Commander and his men inside!"

    Over a hundred cavalry rode out to meet them.

    The moment they returned to their own territory, five out of six men had fallen.

    Only Chen Sansi was still able to hold on.

    He casually threw the prince off the horse and was immediately restrained by the officials.

    "Luo Dongquan! I want your damn life!"

    "ng¡ª"

    Wang Zhi, having caught his breath, got up from the ground, drew a long knife from the waist of a soldier beside him, and charged straight at Luo Dongquan, but with bones merely trained and already heavily injured, he was no match for his opponent.

    Luo Dongquan blocked the attack with his sword effortlessly, repelling Wang Zhi and eximed, "Have you gone mad?!"

    "Households Commander Xiang!"

    Wang Zhi screamed hoarsely, "We were surrounded by barbarian cavalry out of nowhere on the grasnd. I suspect someone intentionally startled the barbarians to put us in a death trap! That person is Luo Dongquan!"

    "nderous usations! Why would I scheme against my own people?!"

    Luo Dongquan angrily responded, "Your own carelessness exposed you; what does that have to do with me! Thirty pairs of eyes saw for themselves; I wasn''t even heading in the same direction as you! You defame me, but where is your evidence?"

    "Liu Jinkui!"

    Xiang Tingchun demanded, "Tell the truth, speak!"

    "Luo Qianhu speaks the truth."

    Liu Jinkui reported honestly, "He was at the very northwest, I was in between him and Chen Household Commander, at a great distance."

    "Hmm."

    Xiang Tingchun nodded, "Wang Zhi, this must be a misunderstanding. Leaking secrets and plotting againstrades is a capital offense. Besides, didn''t you all return alive, safe and sound, and even achieved a remarkable feat!"

    "I..."

    Wang Zhi was at a loss for words.

    Indeed it was just a suspicion; there was no concrete evidence.

    Returned alive?

    Chen Sansi sneered inwardly.

    He returned alive, but what about Li Dazhi, Xia Erniu, and the others?

    Evidence.

    If it''s so hard to find, then just fucking forget about it!

    Is Refining Internal that far-fetched?

    Xiang Tingchun also obviously didn''t want to blow things out of proportion.

    Because Luo Dongquan was a confidant among his trusted men.

    If procedural justice isn''t possible,

    then it has to be oue justice.

    Chen Sansi maintained a cid demeanor but simply stated, "Please, Lord Thousand Households, providepensation for the families of the fallen brothers!"

    "Not just that,"

    Xiang Tingchun was exceedingly pleased, "After this matter is reported to the court, it will surely shock both the government and the people! Each and every one of you on this mission will be rewarded!"

    "Listen up, soldiers of Dasheng¡ª"

    Outside the city walls.

    There came a lone messenger on horseback to the foot of the wall, loudly proiming, "If you do not hand over His Highness, we will definitely massacre Po Yang!"

    "Then you are wee to try!"

    Xiang Tingchun stated deliberately and slowly, "I will be right here waiting for you to attack!"

    "Good! You just wait!"

    The barbarian cavalry gradually retreated and disappeared beyond the line of sight.

    Laying siege was not something one could simply do at a moment''s notice¡ªit required extensive preparation.

    Today, a challenge was issued.

    ...

    Seven dayster, a war report from a remote small county on the frontier was delivered by the Ministry of War to the Cab, then transferred to the Ritual Supervision, and finally presented in the Longevity Pce by the Chambein of the Ritual Supervision himself:

    "On the second day of the eleventh month, Sixth-rank Captain Chen Sansi from Po Yang County led a ten-member Night Patrol Team deep into enemy territory. Amidst a siege of two thousand cavalry, they captured Ninth Prince Yuwen alive and returned in one piece."

    "Interesting,"

    came a voice from behind the curtain, t and emotionless.

    "Pity, he was born in the wrong ce."

    "Nevermind, I have three treasures, and one of them is mercy."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    "Give this young captain a chance."

 Chapter 89 Breaking Through Skin Training.

    The day after returning to the city.

    Chen Sansi''s capture of the Prince spread throughout Po Yang.

    His reputation almost entirely overshadowed Xiang Tingchun.

    Another two hundred people came to Po Yang County to join the army.

    Xiang Tingchun epted allers and reported to the Commanding Department, requesting a temporary expansion of the military garrison.

    Since the battle was nearing,

    the higher-ups would certainly not refuse.

    Apart from that, Xiang Tingchun also requested the deployment of additional troops to strengthen Po Yang''s defenses.

    The great war wasing!

    The situation Chen Sansi''s party investigated indicated that the Xi River tribe conservatively increased its forces to five thousand men.

    It''s uncertain.

    It really might have something to do with the Immortal Treasure.

    Next, there might be members of the Witch God Church infiltrating Po Yang.

    There was no chance of escape.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

    He had no choice from the beginning.

    If he had joined the Martial Arts Hall, chances are he would still be fawning over Brother Liang at the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy, without even an entry-level Bone Strengthening Skill.

    Joining the military, he got the technique, but it required risking his life.

    With any choice, there were corresponding prices to pay.

    All Chen Sansi could do was to continue growing stronger!

    This trip to the grasnds, the gains were not small either.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear. Advanced (Proficiency)]

    [Progress: 885/1000]

    Fighting for life and death, the blood courses fiercely.

    The Spiritual Grain he consumed before leaving was almostpletely digested, and the proficiency of his technique increased dramatically, the speed incredibly fast.

    In a few days, he would be able to break through to Skin Training.

    But there was no need to announce it to the world; it was better to quietly make the breakthrough.

    Previously, it was to show off his talent.

    That''s more than enough.

    Next, he would have to deal with Refining Organ Martial Artists like Dan Yuanzhi and Luo Dongquan, so there was no need to make them wary.

    The most crucial thing was,

    before Refining Organs, there was no way to get promoted.

    Why bother with the unnecessary?

    [Tracking and Evading (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 705/1000]

    ...

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (Entry-level)]

    [Progress: 233/500]

    [Utility: Mainstay]

    ...

    [Skill: Horse Control (Proficient)]

    [Progress: (109/500)]

    Speaking of which,

    his survival this time; Little Xun deserves at least half the credit!

    Without the White Swan Horse''s exceptional speed,

    Chen Sansi wouldn''t have been able to capture the Ninth Prince in such a short time.

    Aside from the increases in various proficiency levels,

    the greatest gain,

    should be this sword!

    "ng¡ª"

    Chen Sansi drew the sword de, startling Sister Lan in his arms.

    The two of them had been through life and death together.

    After reuniting, they cherished each other deeply all night long.

    This sword,

    its scabbard was mainly made of ebony wood, additionally adorned with gold vines on the surface, and a red gem was embedded in the middle, sparkling under candlelight.

    The sword was three feet and six inches long, in line with the 360 Circtions, and one inch and eight points wide, matching half the number of Heaven''s pride; wless throughout, the cold gleam was striking, the edge sharp, with a weight that felt just right.

    "Zhenyue Sword!"

    Chen Sansi had read about it in books.

    Before the grandeur of Dasheng, there was a unifying dynasty called Da Yan.

    This Zhenyue Sword was created by the emperor who revitalized Da Yan, who would have imagined it would fall into the hands of the Yuwen Family a hundred yearster.

    After the fall of the Great Yan Kingdom,

    the Central ins region entered a state of fragmented rulesting over a hundred years.

    The alien races began "assimting into the Central ins," reading the books of the Central ins People, wearing their clothes, speaking theirnguage.

    Latter chased back to the grasnd by Grand Ancestor Cao Xie of Sheng, the "assimtion" of the barbarians into Central ins reversed quite a bit over three hundred years, but thenguage remained the same.

    "What a fine sword!"

    Chen Sansi couldn''t put it down.

    This sword had nearly ruined his reed leaf gun, which he had sent to the Forge for repairs.

    After returning to Po Yang, no one mentioned the sword to him, so it naturally became his.

    After advancing to Skin Training, he''ll make time to practice the sword too!

    As for the Ninth Prince,

    it seemed he was escorted to the Prefecture City overnight before being sent off to the Capital City.

    With his royal status,

    they were not qualified to decide his fate.

    "This counts as a great achievement; I wonder if the Old Emperor will give me anything nice,"

    Chen Sansi pondered to himself.

    But with wars prevalent and the distance from the Northern Territory to the Capital City, who knows how long the round trip would take.

    What''s most important at the moment is to enhance his strength.

    The following day,

    Chen Sansi went to the military camp.

    Zhu Tong, Xu Bin, and others were there and unharmed.

    That they could survive as six; the Car Suspension Formationbined with Commanding Soldiers skill, bringing Calm in Crisis, was indispensable.

    Otherwise, they wouldn''t have been able to hold on for minutes; they would have been crushed instantly.

    "Wang Li, you should know people like Li Dazhi,"

    Chen Sansi took out twenty taels of silver, "Find a time to take the silver to their families, and check if the funeralpensation and supplements promised by the Thousand Households have been given fully; let me know if there''s an issue."

    Even though they were only military soldiers,

    they were human lives after all.

    He wouldn''t treat casualties as mere numbers like Xiang Tingchun; he would help within his capacity.

    He didn''t trust the officials to handle matters properly either.

    God knows whether the promisedpensation will actually be given without skimming off the top.

    "Zhu Tong, there''s no doubt that the healing garrison will pay. I will cover all the resources needed for your subsequent cultivation and the realm of Blood Refining. Drink Blood Replenishing Soup and Replenishing Essence Soup as you wish."

    Chen Sansi said generously.

    Xiang Tingchun couldn''t afford to reward them with good things.

    But Blood Replenishing Soup and Replenishing Essence Soup had to be rewarded, nheless.

    Otherwise, who would be willing to follow him?

    "Thank you, my lord!"

    Zhu Tong and the others sped their fists in gratitude.

    For these poor fellows, what theycked most was supplemental medicine; otherwise, their cultivation pace would be much faster than now.

    "Fatty Wang, how are your injuries?"

    Chen Sansi inquired.

    "Well, having attained Bone Forging Perfection, a couple of cuts won''t kill me,"

    said Wang Zhi, who viewed those who died as if they were disciples he personally taught. "It''s just infuriating that Luo Dongquan couldn''t be killed! Do you know what realm he''s in?"

    "He just got promoted to Deputy Thousand Households. Isn''t he just at the entry-level of Refining Internal Organs?"

    Chen Sansi was somewhat surprised. "Not just that?"

    "Absolutely more than that!"

    Wang Zhi took him to a secluded spot and spoke in a lower voice, "Though I have regressed, I couldn''t be clearer about the strength one should have at each realm. Besides, having spent over a decade in Po Yang, I even know which Cultivation Technique he practices.

    "He''s definitely not simply at the entry-level of Refining Internal Organs; at the very least, he''s mastered the Refining Organ Skill! He''s hiding his true cultivation level."

    "Hmm."

    Chen Sansi nodded,mitting it to memory.

    He had just begun to think about concealing his own cultivation level.

    He hadn''t expected Luo Dongquan to be doing the same.

    His own preparations to conceal his cultivation level were meant to face Refining Organ Martial Artists. But for whom was Luo doing it?

    "Don''t worry about it,"

    Wang Zhi said. "Once you''re back, with Bu Qi and his brother there, Luo Dongquan wouldn''t dare act against you. Just focus on your training, and it won''t take long for you to catch up to him."

    "And what about Dan Yuanzhi?"

    Chen Sansi followed up, "Does he also have a concealed cultivation level?"

    "He does not,"

    Wang Zhi replied. "During thest visit to Ji Mansion, when you were training in martial arts, I probed him under the pretense of being drunk. He is indeed in the initial stage of Refining Internal Organs, but his foundations are solid, not bad at all."

    Chen Sansi understood.

    Cultivation levels.

    In most cases, it''s easier to overestimate than to see through an underestimated one.

    Only in Fatty Wang''s case was it somewhat peculiar.

    After a brief chat, Chen Sansi, who hadn''t rested throughout the day, immediately dived back into his training, aiming to break through the final barrier of Skin Training in one go.

    ...

    At the family estate.

    Xiang Tingchun was practicing with his sword in the courtyard.

    Luo Dongquan, led by a maid, came in, "Lord Thousand Households, did you have any instructions for me?"

    Xiang Tingchun didn''t speak and continued practicing with his sword, leaving him standing there.

    Not until two hourster.

    did he finally put away his sword and stop. He took the hot towel handed over by the maid to wipe off his sweat. Still in no hurry to speak, he then sat leisurely on the rattan chair and began sipping tea.

    Luo Dongquan thus stood in silence, not uttering a word, like a wooden stake.

    "Go on, Old Luo."

    Xiang Tingchun set down his teacup, "Why must you do that?"

    "This lowly official doesn''t know!"

    Luo Dongquan kept his head lowered.

    "Leakingrades'' whereabouts, what''s the difference between that and conspiring with the enemy to betray the country!"

    Xiang Tingchun stood up and approached the other man, suppressing his anger, "You, just had to, you''re so eager to see Chen Sansi die, not even willing to give me face?"

    "My lord, I did it for self-preservation."

    Luo Dongquan stopped pretending, "In the future, with his power and influence in the Northern Territory, it would only take a word from him, to not only threaten my life but also end my career and the future prospects of my entire Luo Family."

    "p¡ª¡ª"

    Xiang Tingchun''s hand struck like an iron fan, fiercely pped across his face, producing a crisp sound, "Luo Dongquan! Don''t forget, who it was that took pity on you back in the day, brought you into the barracks and taught you martial arts personally. And who was it that transferred resources to you, so that you could have the cultivation you have today!"

    "This lowly official dares not forget!"

    A purple-red handprint appeared on Luo Dongquan''s face, and he didn''t dare to resist, "Lord Thousand Households'' favor, this official will surely repay with my life!"

    "It''s fortunate that there''s no evidence. This matter, I will help you suppress it!"

    Xiang Tingchun exhaled turbid breath, "But if there is ever a next time, you''re on your own. Get out!"

    Luo Dongquan bowed respectfully, retreated a few steps, and then turned to leave.

    After stepping out of the gate, he spat a mouthful of bloody saliva toward the front door, expressionless.

    ...

    "Hula¡ª¡ª"

    Inside the cave.

    Chen Sansi poured the "Condensed Dew Body Forging Soup" into a wooden tub.

    In recent days, he hadn''t gone to the Ji Mansion at all.

    Instead, he ordered their people to deliver the prepared medicinal soup to his home.

    Today was thest portion.

    Once used up, it should be just right for him to break through, and there would be no more Condensed Dew Body Forging Soup.

    First, he exercised his skin in the iron sand.

    After his entire body was bloodied, he would jump into the medicine bath.

    The icy medicinal liquid seeped into his body, constantly repairing wounds and nourishing his physique.

    After soaking for a while, Chen Sansi got out, picked up the repaired reed leaf spear and began to practice.

    The cultivation technique was disyed.

    The medicinal force of the medicine bath, previously absorbed through the wounds into the flesh, was nowpletely assimted and then oozed out through the pores, hanging on his body like droplets of transparent dew, thus the name Condensed Dew Body Forging Soup.

    Various supplemental medicines, beast meat, and, most crucially, Spiritual Grain.

    Chen Sansi reached the threshold of a breakthrough once again.

    He could feel it.

    Qi-Blood no longer affected only the meridians and bones. When using Qi-Blood to strengthen his spear technique, his skin was strengthened along with it, as if his whole body from head to toe gained a thick armor of skin.

    "Bang¡ª¡ª"

    A single thrust of his spear carved a huge hole in the wall of the cave.

    Chen Sansi''s overall qualities rose once more, his skin became thicker and more resilient, far surpassing cowhide, and much stronger than that of Xuan Skin!

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear - Small Achievement]

    [Progress: 0/2000]

    [Utility: Blood of the Dragon Elephant, Nine Dragon Living Veins, Innate Vajra, Skin as Tough as Bone]

    [Skin as Tough as Bone: When Qi-Blood is abundant, the skin bes extremely tough, its defensive power akin to an externalyer of Abnormal Bone, difficult to pierce with sword or de.]

    "Bang bang bang!"

    Chen Sansi clenched his fists and mmed them against the wall, punching multiple holes into it.

    He didn''t feel the slightest pain, as his skin''s level of defense turned into an invulnerable bone armor, and not just any ordinary bones ¨C these were Abnormal Bones that could only be cultivated with a superior cultivation technique!

 Chapter 90 Mutual Destruction

    ```Chen Sansi drew his treasure sword and lightly brushed it across his arm.

    A sting followed, leaving behind a white mark, but no substantial harm was done.

    This was still the Zhenyue Sword.

    If it were a regr de, it would be even harder to break through the defense.

    "It''s not always this hard; it needs to be engorged with blood to work."

    Chen Sansi kept trying.

    In a normal state, his skin was tougher than an average person''s, but not inhuman.

    "Once I achieve Great Sess, it will be a Vajra Body!"

    "Out of medicine!"

    Chen Sansi sighed.

    The Tiger Blood Wine, sent by the Ministry of War as a reward, had already been rewarded to him twice by Xiang Tingchun, but it was meant specifically for those with Bone Training Great Sess. The medical books stated that drinking it prematurely was not only useless but harmful, so it was not yet needed.

    "Let''s borrow some from the Martial Arts Hall!"

    Hundred-year-old ck Ginseng.

    In Po Yang County, it was generally harvested and kept at home as a treasured possession.

    By the time Chen Sansi descended the mountain, it was already night.

    He headed straight to the Liang Family''srge estate outside the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy.

    Starting here first.

    If there was nothing to find, he would then go to the Yunhe Pan Family and the Zhao Family.

    Though the Tianyuan Martial Arts Academy''s pharmacy didn''t do much business, it didn''t mean they didn''t have treasures stored at home.

    Bypassing two household ves and disciples on night patrol, Chen Sansi lightly leaped onto the rooftops, hopping back and forth over the tile and rubble, making no sound thanks to "Light as a Feather."

    He didn''t even bother to conceal his long spear, carrying it openly on his back.

    Long spear, bow and arrows, Zhenyue Sword¡ªone was not missing.

    It wasn''t that he wasn''t concerned about being discovered at all.

    It was just...

    The Liang family better pray that no one discovers him.

    Otherwise, Po Yang County would have another family extermination tragedy.

    Times had changed.

    In the beginning, when he first practiced Martial Arts, he had to swallow his pride in the face of the Martial Arts Hall''s people.

    Now, he didn''t even need to lift a finger against them; a flick of the finger to the bowstring would do the job.

    It was just borrowing some medicinal materials.

    He hoped they would not be foolish.

    Chen Sansi quickly found the storeroom for the medicinal materials.

    The person in charge was asleep on the table, essentially saving the lives of dozens of the Liang Household.

    He climbed through the window into the pharmacy, grabbing a sack and stuffing it.

    Soon, it was bulging with items.

    "Indeed, there''s ck Ginseng, and quite an amount of it too, enough for me to use for a while."

    In a corner, Chen Sansi found some exquisitely stored boxes and opened them. They contained either ginseng or treasured ganoderma and many other rare treasures capable of neutralizing various odd poisons.

    Whether needed or not, he packed everything and took it all.

    Inside the quiet Liang family''srge estate,

    only a study was lit by the light of candles.

    Chen Sansi thought about it, then still tiptoed to the eaves to peek through a sliver of an opening into the room.

    Inside the room, at the desk,

    a middle-aged man with graying hair sat there, facing a messy pile of scrolls, holding a folding fan in his hands and idly fingering it with a vacant look in his eyes.

    ''Is that Liang Zhan''s fan?''

    ''Heh, old man, missing your son, are you?''

    Chen Sansi hesitated on whether to send them all to be reunited as a family.

    "Waste!"

    A sharp scolding came through.

    A haggard woman burst out of the bedroom and rushed toward the study, rudely kicking open the door: "Old man, what''s the use of pretending here every day? If you really care for Zhan''er, why don''t you go take revenge!"

    "I do want revenge!"

    Liang Shengzhi gritted his teeth and said, "But Xiang Tingchun has achieved small sess in Refining Internal, and how could I be his match? Plus, without evidence, he would certainly deny it!"

    Xiang Tingchun?

    Chen Sansi was surprised.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Turns out, Lord Thousand Households had been carrying the pot for him all along.

    "So what!"

    The woman shouted shrilly, "You could ask others for help, couldn''t you? Could that Xiang Tingchun be invincible in this world? Aren''t there Refining Internal experts around the County Magistrate, around the Magistrate? Beg them for help!"

    "No one can help me."

    Liang Shengzhi''s voice was choked with sobs: "Ji Guangxian and Xiang Tingchun are birds of a feather; how could they possibly help me kill Xiang Tingchun? Even if I were to spend all I have, I couldn''t afford the price!"

    "And the Magistrate?!"

    The woman lowered her voice: "Isn''t the Magistrate repeatedly calling you overtely? Can''t you ask him to help?"

    "Even less likely!"

    Liang Shengzhi said, "The new Magistrate Xue is said to be from the court and barely epts our tributes. He is too proud and lofty, how could he be our assassin?

    "Moreover, his frequent summoning of ustely is for questioning about the Immortal Treasure!

    "If I wanted his help, unless..."

    He suddenly understood the woman''s implication: "You''re insane, hiding the Immortal Treasure is a great crime punishable by the extermination of nine ns... by doing so, we could avenge Zhan''er, but it would also mean the end of the Liang family''s hundred-year foundation!"

    "Foundation?"

    The woman burst into hystericalughter: "Liang Shengzhi, your son is dead; who are you keeping your foundation for? And with the barbarians about to attack the city, do you think you can stay hidden at home? Wouldn''t the surname Xiang conscript you?"

    Liang Shengzhi stood up anxiously: "What are you doing?!"

    The woman put a hairpin to her own throat: "If you''re really a coward, then I''ll just go to Zhan''er myself!"

    "Ah¡ª"

    Liang Shengzhi roared, overturning the desk: "You''re all forcing me, so let''s die together! Xiang Tingchun, I will take you down with me!"

    What a touching scene of deep father-son affection, of white-haired people sending off those with ck hair!

    Touching, is it?

    Chen Sansi sneered.

    When these beasts were testing drugs on the vigers, they never considered that others had families too.

    Even if he ughtered their entire household, sparing not a man, woman or child, they didn''t deserve half a bit of pity; instead, it would be ridding people of harm.

    However, since they pinned the me on Xiang Tingchun and there was involvement with the Immortal Treasure, he couldn''t just kill recklessly, or it might lead to unforeseenplications.

    "The Magistrate is indeed here for the Immortal Treasure, and he has Refining Internal experts by his side!"```

    "It seems that the Liang Family intends to report to the Magistrate."

    "Mr. Xiang, you''d better pray for good fortune."

    Chen Sansi didn''t stay any longer; with a leap, he vanished into the night after leaving the Liang familypound, disappearing without a trace.

    ...

    "You want to learn swordsmanship?"

    Wang Zhi, who was sitting on the stone stool drinking, lifted his head in confusion at the boy''s sudden request, "Are you sure?"

    "Sure."

    Chen Sansi nodded firmly.

    He had sought out the Sun Li siblings, but since they didn''t know, he had no option but to approach Tang Ruoshan.

    Wang Zhi recalled carefully: "I do have some,e with me."

    The first time entering Fatty Wang''s house was unexpectedly shabby.

    The yard was unattended, and there was no furniture in the rooms except for a bed and a locked chest in the bedroom.

    Wang Zhi opened the chest and pulled out a pile of secret skill books, then selected a few swordsmanship volumes and tossed them over, as if they were worthless: "Take a look at which one you want to practice. I don''t have anything else, just plenty of techniques.

    "When I was kicked out with my belongings, they only took the techniques above Refining Internal. I kept all the ones below it.

    "Among these volumes, the best should be the ''Diancang Swordsmanship.'' It''s the same one the Master used."

    "Supervisor Sun?"

    Chen Sansi asked, "Wasn''t he a spear user?"

    "He also practiced swordsmanship. If I remember correctly, before he broke through the Martial Saint level, he had practiced a variety of messy techniques."

    Wang Zhi stroked his chin: "This ''Diancang Swordsmanship'' is a unique technique from Cang Mountain Sect, one of the major sects from over a hundred years ago. After the sect plotted a rebellion and was annihted, the technique fell into the hands of the court. Even the master practiced it, so it must be good, but definitely hard to learn. Aren''t you worried it will affect your spear training?"

    "More than that..."

    Chen Sansi voiced his perplexity: "What I''m more curious about is: what are the benefits of practicing multiple weapon techniques?"

    One major utility of a cultivation technique is to push the limits of the physical body.

    But as one''s realm increases and they start training in a new weapon, what can that bring?

    It''s definitely not going to be a significant improvement in physical strength.

    Otherwise, it would bemon knowledge by now.

    "Before Hua Jin, practicing an additional weapon technique can make your Qi-Blood more robust. After Hua Jin, it gives you a deeper foundation in your strength. Besides that, there are no other benefits," Wang Zhi exined patiently while changing the dressing on his wound: "So generally, it''s the people in high realms with no hope of further breakthroughs who collect and practice various techniques to enhance theirbat power. After all, among peers in the same realm, the battle oftenes down to whose True Qi and Qi-Blood can prevail.

    "You are still at a low realm; it''s not very meaningful to train now.

    "Even if you master it, you won''t be able to use two techniques simultaneously in realbat; people only have one brain, how can you split your focus?

    "At most, you can have a long weapon and a short weapon to turn to when an enemy gets close, so you aren''t helpless. That''s your n, right?"

    "Sort of."

    Chen Sansi did not deny it.

    But he quickly linked this information in his mind.

    People in high realms with no hope of further breakthroughs.

    This described the former Supervisor Sun as well.

    It wasn''t until after the fifteenth year of Longqing that Supervisor Sun suddenly broke through to a level above Martial Saint.

    Was there a connection to his practice with the sword?

    Of course, this is only spection right now.

    Martial Saint is still too far off.

    Let''s just try practicing the swordsmanship for now.

    "I''ll take this one!"

    Chen Sansi epted the ''Diancang Swordsmanship.''

    "Whatever you want."

    Wang Zhi added, "With a base level of cultivation, you''ll learn other techniques much faster, but how fast depends on your qualifications andprehension."

    "Thanks!"

    Chen Sansi didn''t waste any time.

    He began practicing the swordsmanship that very day.

    The universal Breathing Skill was the foundation.

    He only needed to learn Pile Work and Sword Moves.

    He vividly remembered how, when first learning martial arts, it took nearly ten days just to perform the Pile Work and moves smoothly.

    Now learning the sword,

    It took him only half a day!

    [Cultivation Technique: Diancang Swordsmanship (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 0/50]

    [Utility: None]

    Only fifty to reach entry-level mastery?

    Chen Sansi tried to officially practice.

    The results were quicker than he anticipated.

    Each time hepleted a set of sword moves, the proficiency would noticeably rise.

    At this rate,

    Just one day was needed.

    After one day, his swordsmanship could be at entry level.

    "This really is a great sword!"

    Chen Sansi held the Zhenyue Sword, somewhat unable to put it down.

    This legendary treasure sword simply couldn''t be measured in mary terms, it was truly priceless.

    "What a waste of resources!"

    "I heard that Prince was taken straight to the Capital City."

    This was good news.

    If the Prince had stayed in Po Yang,

    The barbarian tribes would undoubtedly continue to send reinforcements, and higher-ranked generals would be essential. Mr. Xiang alone wouldn''t be able to hold out.

    Now that the Prince was taken away,

    The Yuwen Family would have to request reinforcements directly from the old Emperor.

    Of course, this didn''t mean that Po Yang was safe; on the contrary, its fate was still uncertain.

    The Xi River tribe had at least five thousand troops, perhaps even more.

    Against the Thousand Households'' one thousand men,

    Even as defenders, there was significant pressure.

    Defense preparations began to be fortified inside and outside the Great Wall.

    The great battle was about to begin.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 91 Fast Track Swordsmanship

    All around Po Yang, everyone had entered a state of war preparation.

    Not only were the soldiers bustling about,

    the ordinary people couldn''t escape conscription either.

    The Great Wall''s construction had been ongoing for nearly two hundred years, requiring annual maintenance.

    With the great battle impending, reinforcing the weaker segments had be more critical.

    The two-hundred-mile Great Wall.

    The workforce from the Thousand Households was wholly inadequate; they had no choice but to rely on civilians.

    "Uncle Lai Zi, have something to eat."

    Chen Sansi had been sent to supervise thebor and was distributing food to the vigers with Wang Li.

    This temporary conscription didn''t even provide meals.

    Themon folk had no choice but toply.

    Otherwise, if the barbarians breached the city, not a single living person would be spared.

    "The cornbread smells delicious, Shi, bing a high official recently must have lined your pockets well!"

    Uncle Lai Zi took it and bit into it without a word of thanks.

    "How dare you!"

    Wang Li angrily said, "You ingrate, the Lord kindly asked the Lord Thousand Households for food for you, and you don''t appreciate it."

    "A dog''s mouth can''t spit out ivory!"

    The rest of the vigers immediately began cursing.

    "Just go die, Uncle Lai Zi!"

    "Right, die at the barbarians'' hands outside the city, that would be a fitting end for you!"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi paid them no mind and left Wang Li to watch over them while he attended to his own duties.

    The food, he had requested from the stores through Xiang Tingchun.

    In a defensive battle like this, without civilian cooperation, the difficulty would increase significantly.

    Neither does it make sense to expect the horse to run without feeding it grass.

    The food reserves at the Thousand Households were enough for six months; giving a small portion to the civilians was not a problem.

    Furthermore, various vige gentry and Martial Arts Hall lords had amassed plenty in their granaries, waiting to sell at higher prices in winter.

    If truly necessary, they would seize food from the Martial Arts Halls.

    Back at the military camp.

    Empowered by the medicine of Spiritual Grain, Chen Sansi practiced spear techniques for two hours before starting on swordsmanship.

    "Diancang Swordsmanship"

    Divided into three parts,

    the part he held could directly cultivate refining organs,prising thirteen sword techniques, each with seventy-two variations. If there had to be a distinct characteristic, it was focused on ughter, with every move designed to kill.

    The Zhenyue Sword in Chen Sansi''s hands hummed and trembled, at times swift as a fierce torrential downpour and at others slow as drifting clouds, each strike embodying a weather-changing momentum, grand and powerful, splitting the wind and tearing through clouds.

    [Cultivation Technique: Diancang Swordsmanship (entry-level)]

    [Progress: 0/50]

    [Utility: Ambidextrous, Swift Mastery of the Sword Path]

    [Ambidextrous: Dual-wielding,plementing strengths andpensating weaknesses.]

    [Swift Mastery of the Sword Path: Below the physical realm, sword techniques are incredibly fast, unimpeded.]

    Swift Mastery of the Sword Path!

    Once past entry-level, proficiency was still only fifty.

    This meant, as long as it wasn''t beyond his own realm, breakthroughs were as simple as eating and drinking.

    In this way,

    the concerns Wang Zhi had about it interfering with his spear technique cultivation werepletely unfounded.

    More importantly,

    it was being ambidextrous!

    Normally, it''s impossible to multitask.

    Chen Sansi trained with a shorter weapon as well, not just to handle special situations where enemies got close but to have better options than beingpletely unarmed, which was certainly an improvement.

    However, if two sets of techniques could be used at the same time, it would be transformative!

    Sometimes, the sum of one plus one far exceeds two!

    The long spear, as the king of weapons, had only one w: its length. Although his spear techniques were impable, and no one had evere close enough to challenge him, it didn''t mean that they would never be able to.

    Being able to use both sword and spear techniques simultaneously wouldpletelypensate for this.

    Chen Sansi tried it out on the spot.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    In his hands, the Zhenyue Sword and the reed leaf spear operated as if controlled by two perfectly coordinated individuals.

    Especially with the Zhenyue Sword.

    Holding the sword in his left hand, it felt not the least bit awkward, but rather like a natural extension of his own limbs!

    "Swift Mastery!"

    Chen Sansi with spear in right hand and sword in left.

    Just two days and nights.

    He pushed the Zhenyue Sword to great sess in the Blood Refining Technique, his internal Qi-Blood thickened without affecting the progress of his spear technique.

    "Mr. Chen."

    Zhao Kang found him: "Go to the main tent, Commander Xiang has important things to discuss with everyone."

    Central Army Camp.

    All the lieutenants were present.

    In addition, Magistrate Xue, Magistrate Ji, as well as Sun Li and Sun Buqi were all there.

    Xiang Tingchun looked at Feng Yong, signaling him to begin.

    "Yes!"

    Feng Yong pointed to a location twenty miles outside the Great Wall on the sand table and said, "Two days ago, under orders to carry out a new round of reconnaissance, I discovered that the barbarian tribes had begun to set up camps there and obtained urate intelligence that they would attack Po Yang within five days at thetest.

    "Among them, total military strength is about six thousand, with two thousand light cavalry and five hundred heavy cavalry.

    "Refining Organ increased to two people, Bone Trainingmanders increased to ten, several with Blood Refining Great Sess.

    "Additionally,plete with heavy machinery such as catapults and siege carriages.

    "On our side,

    "we have one thousand and fifty-sixbat-ready troops, plus two hundred Martial Arts Academy Disciples, three Refining Organ Martial Artists, and twelve Bone Training Martial Artists participating in the battle.

    "Lord Thousand Households, I have finished my report."

    "Hmm,"

    Xiang Tingchun nodded slightly: "Overall, while we have more high realm warriors, the Xi River tribe''s forces are several timesrger than ours, and even just holding out will be difficult.

    "So, Magistrate Ji, could you help by requesting the An Ding Prefecture Commanding Department to send an additional fifteen hundred troops?"

    "That''s not within my jurisdiction."

    Ji Guangxian said sheepishly, "Moreover, An Ding Prefecture is facing fifty thousand Iron Cavalry; where would they find extra forces to deploy? At most, I can call for one more Refining Organ from my family to assist."

    His mission was notpleted.

    He could not return.

    Staying in Po Yang meant sharing life and death with Po Yang.

    "Miss Sun."

    Xiang Tingchun shifted his gaze, "Can''t the Governor Mansion send some people over?"

    "I have already written a letter and had it urgently sent to Liangzhou. My father should have arrangements in ce."

    Sun Li''s voice was cold, "Before that, my brother and I will stay in Po Yang to assist; we will absolutely not flee once the battlemences."

    "Good! Everyone knows of the iron-blooded reputation of the Eight Camps. It seems the reputation is well deserved!"

    Xiang Tingchun looked at everyone, exhorting, "Gentlemen, even the daughter and young master of the Supervisor himself are prepared to fight to the death. How can we retreat?

    "Pass mymand, starting tomorrow, all soldiers of Po Yang Thousand Households will be stationed at the Great Wall, on standby for twelve hours a day, ready to face the enemy at any moment!"

    "Understood!"

    The crowd epted themand.

    "Mr. Chen!"

    Chen Sansi, who was initially nning to go home, was stopped; he paused, "Magistrate Ji, what can I do for you?"

    "Heh heh."

    Ji Guangxianughed, "Mr. Chen ventured deep into enemy territory alone for hundreds of miles, capturing a prince amidst heavily surrounded troops, establishing an astonishing feat. Soon even the Capital will hear of your great name.

    "Elder Gao is the most perceptive in recognizing talents and will surely entrust you with a significant task."

    "I am ttered by Magistrate Ji''s high regard."

    Chen Sansi replied perfunctorily, "Sadly, even if I wanted to leave Po Yang, I can''t leave now. Major matters will have to wait until after the war is over."

    One word.

    Dy!

    As long as he could dy, once his realm improved, all problems would be easily solved.

    "Mr. Chen speaks wisely."

    Ji Guangxian stroked his beard, "I too will not leave and will stay to share life and death with the soldiers of Po Yang. Indeed, this matter should be discussed after the battle concludes."

    "Such integrity, Magistrate Ji!"

    Chen Sansi changed the subject, "I just don''t know..."

    "No!"

    Ji Guangxian interrupted, "Mr. Chen, when I travel far, why would I carry so many medicinal materials with me?

    "Of course, if Mr. Chen can give me a guarantee, I am not against sending someone from An Ding Prefecture to rush more medicinal materials here."

    "Magistrate Ji misunderstands."

    Chen Sansi said, "I understand the principle of not taking rewards without merit.

    "''Dew Fortifying Soup'' is exceptionally valuable; even if Magistrate Ji is generous, I would feel ashamed to continue receiving it without due cause.

    "I wanted to ask if Magistrate Ji has any other secret medicine? Perhaps something for treating injuries or restoring Qi-Blood. I dare not ask for much, just enough for a single use."

    "Well~"

    Magistrate Ji pondered for a moment, "Naturally, there are more! My Ji Family started in the medicinal trade, how could we have only one secret form? Whether it''s golden sore medicine for treating external injuries or Blood Replenishing Pills to quickly restore Qi-Blood, my Ji Family''s medicines are many times better than what''s avable outside.

    "Since Mr. Chen has asked, how could I refuse? I will have someone send some to youter."

    "Thank you, Magistrate Ji!"

    Chen Sansi bowed with his fists and took his leave.

    "Sir."

    Dan Yuanzhi smiled, "He has started asking for medicine."

    "Naturally, the forms used by my Ji Family for bone training were taken by His Highness to cultivate his confidants; anyone who has used them wouldn''t want to switch medicines!"

    Ji Guangxian confidently said, "You send him the medicer, but remember, only give him enough for a single use. He has asked me once; he will ask again. Why worry about not being able to keep him in check?"

    ...

    "Done!"

    Chen Sansi sessfully concocted ''Dew Fortifying Soup,'' ''Six Elements Blood Replenishing Pills,'' and a secretly made medicine for treating external injuries.

    The Dew Fortifying Soup was still useful even for someone with a small achievement in bone training.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear. Upper (small achievement)]

    [Progress: 108/2000]

    The other two secret medicines weren''t very effective, but they were free of charge.

    They would also make the magistrate think that his family''s secret medicines were attractive to him, ensuring he wouldn''t be bothered by him until the end of the battle.

    [Skill: Medical Skill. Ordinary (entry-level)]

    [Progress: 403/500]

    "The Medical Skill will soon break through!"

    Chen Sansi returned home.

    Gu Xin had prepared dinner as usual.

    That night.

    She took out a dark blue robe she had finally finished sewing after two months and personally dressed her man in it, checking for any ill-fitting areas so she could make the best adjustments overnight.

    "It fits perfectly; Brother Shi looks very handsome in it."

    Under the candlelight, in front of the bronze mirror.

    Gu Xin quietly watched her man, her almond-shaped eyes initially dreamy and blurry, gradually reddening with tears as she unconsciously hugged him tightly, whispering, "Sister Tong''s child is due in a couple of days."

    "I know."

    Since Chen Sansi hade to this world, it was his first time wearing such fitting andfortable clothes.

    He adjusted his sleeves, replying, "Xu Bin will join me in guarding the city; you help take care of things here."

    "That''s not what I meant..."

    Gu Xin hugged him tighter, her voice bing very soft, "I meant, when you return, we, we should have one too."

    Towards the end.

    Her voice was more choked than shy.

    The emphasis of her words was on "return."

    "Don''t worry, I''m quite capable."

    Chen Sansi suddenly lifted her by the waist, "And this matter doesn''t need to wait until I return; we can start now."

    "Hmm~"

    ...

    Tonight.

    Countless simr scenes would unfold in the military settlements.

    Fathers silent, mothers advising, wives and children crying.

    Because no one knew if tonight would be theirst reunion.

    Starting tomorrow.

    All soldiers would be stationed at the Great Wall, defending against the barbarian invasion.

    Before the battle is over, no one may return home.

 Chapter 92 Divine Arrow Shows Its Might

    5 a.m. to 7 a.m.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    The sound of the bugle echoed through the camp.

    The soldiers headed to the barracks, bidding farewell to their families.

    The Sun Li siblings, too, donned their armor and took up their weapons to join the battle.

    "Shanshi."

    Sun Buqi caught up quickly, "I''ve looked into the matter on the grasnd for you. That Thousand Households surnamed Luo, his subordinates said he hasn''t left alone. Is it possible that it''s because Tang Ruoshan is too ipetent, causing the exposure?"

    "Perhaps."

    Chen Sansi didn''t refute, nor did he bother to.

    To the people of the Governor Mansion, it was all about evidence.

    But he didn''t need to provide any.

    Sun Li said, "Little Brother, don''t worry, we''ll keep an eye on him."

    Once arriving at the barracks,

    after Xiang Tingchun''s lengthy speech, all the soldiers then garrisoned the Great Wall.

    In the days that followed, they would have to eat, drink, and deal with all matters within the Great Wall, with any departures requiring permission.

    Each Household was responsible for two signal towers, covering a distance of twenty miles.

    The other two hundred Martial Arts Academy Disciples and over two hundred new recruits who had just joined the army were scattered among them.

    Themon folk were in charge of boiling the golden liquid, moving rolling logs, boulders, arrows, and other tools.

    Xiang Tingchun, Luo Dongquan, and Dan Yuanzhi, three Refining Organ Martial Artists, personally conducted day and night patrols.

    Additionally, a night watch team would leave the city every night to scout.

    This task no longer fell upon Chen Sansi.

    All that was left was to wait.

    After three days,

    Chen Sansi''s swordsmanship shot straight up to entry-level Bone Training, no longer holding him back when used.

    "Mr. Chen, it''s doomed!"

    Xu Wencai, busy for several days, created a makeshift sand table with an uracyparable to that within the Central Army''s tent.

    Holding a stick, he looked troubled, "It''s doomed!"

    It was mealtime.

    Everyone was gathered inside the signal tower, eating the beast meat brought by Chen Sansi, and thus heard everything clearly.

    "Doomed my ass!"

    Zhu Tong stepped forward and kicked him, "When the barbarianse, I''ll push you off the city wall first to meet your doom."

    "It really is doomed!"

    Xu Wencai''s expression was sincere.

    Xu Bin leaned over, craning his neck, "Old Xu, I''ve read Military Books too. We may not have many people, but we are defending the city. We''re notcking in food, and we have the townspeople to help. There''s still a good chance we can hold."

    "I wasn''t talking about that."

    Xu Wencai turned to Chen Sansi, "You guys don''t understand, but Mr. Chen certainly can see it. The troop reinforcement by the Barbarian Thousand Households from Xi River is very strange, and An Ding Prefecture remains silent. Too weird... Unfortunately, there isn''t enough intelligence, I can''t see the specifics elsewhere, and can''t figure out what the barbarians exactly want to do.

    "But from what we see now, the posture they are assuming signifies that they are hell-bent on taking Po Yang, defying the heavens in their pursuit!"

    "Hmm,"

    Chen Sansi nodded, indicating he agreed with that view to everyone.

    Indeed strange.

    Even bringing up the Immortal Treasure wouldn''t make sense.

    Shouldn''t such matters be dealt with stealthily?

    For instance, sending several more experts of the Witch God Sect, plenty of Refining Organ and Hua Jin practitioners.

    What does it mean to send arge army closing in?

    Searching carpet-style is not done like this, right?

    Of course, if it''s just six thousand men, the problem isn''t too big. At most, we implement scorched earth tactics, retreat everyone back to the county seat, and concentrate strength on guard higher and more solid city walls.

    But what might follow next?

    Nobody can be sure.

    He, like Xu Wencai, had a very bad feeling.

    Nobody is an Immortal; they could only take one step at a time.

    "Mr. Chen, why don''t we head to the mountains!"

    Zhuang Yi proposed this idea for the second time, "Take about a hundred people and just flee straight into the deep mountains and dense forests, where you could be a king and set up a stronghold, recruiting soldiers to start anew."

    Zhu Tong agreed with both hands, "Exactly, we could establish our own small court!"

    "Are you two brainless? How can you joke about something like this?!"

    Xu Bin hurried to stop them.

    Xu Wencai seriously discussed the idea with them,

    concluding in the end thatcking advanced cultivation methods and resources, bing prominent would only lead to a dead end.

    Of course, everyone was just joking around.

    Because defending the city was too monotonous.

    Chen Sansi didn''t join in the fun. After replenishing his energy, he continued to practice his spear and swordsmanship.

    In a sh, another two days passed.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 308/2000]

    His swordsmanship also caught up with his own realm.

    [Cultivation Technique: Diancang Swordsmanship (Bone Forger Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 0/2000]

    The limit for proficiency increased many times over.

    As expected, once reaching the realm of the physical body, rapid progress was no longer possible.

    He still needed to focus primarily on spear technique.

    "On a side note,"

    "it has been over ten days since the grasnd journey concluded."

    "Shouldn''t the Capital City have received news of me capturing the Ninth Prince Yu Wen? I wonder if they''ll give me anything in return."

    He didn''t seek rank or peerage,

    only a resource for cultivation.

    The Condensed Dew Body Refinement Soup was still useful for Bone Forger small achievement, but it wasn''t enough; he wanted to achieve Bone Forging Perfection as soon as possible, so when facing a Refining Organ Martial Artist again, he would not be utterly helpless.

    "Enemy attack¡ª"

    "Enemy attack!"

    Atop the Great Wall, the signal fires were lit.

    Along the two hundred mile Great Wall, the soldiers, whose nerves had been strained for days on end, each took up their weapons and moved to their pre-assigned posts.

    Chen Sansi also took his spear and sword, and went to the top of the wall.

    "Boom, boom, boom, boom¡ª"

    "Hum¡ª"

    Along with the sound of war drums as loud as thunder and the majestic bugle, a dark mass of figures gradually appeared on the slope ten miles away. It was the barbarian army.

    They arranged their battle formation, erected their observation towers, and stood off against the Great Sheng officials and soldiers from afar,

    "Yeah¡ª"

    Leading a dark horse Calvary unit, one came to a halt about two hundred steps from the Great Wall and began riding around and shouting,

    "Hear this, Sheng Dynasty''s officers and soldiers within the city!"

    "Surrender early, and avoid death!"

    "We give you two hours!"

    "After two hours, if you don''t voluntarily open the city gates, our Heavenly n Iron Cavalry will surely tten Po Yang!"

    The best strategy in warfare is to outthink the enemy; attacking the spirit is supreme, attacking the city is inferior.

    Even though they were of different races and bloodshed was inevitable, they could still create an atmosphere that boosted the morale of their own troops.

    Morale was, after all, the key to victory.

    "Soldiers defending the Great Wall, listen up!"

    "I offer you..."

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    Thump!

    An arrow suddenly pierced through the helmet of a fast-charging cavalryman, toppling him and his horse to the ground and stirring up a cloud of dust.

    Chen Sansi slowly lowered his bow.

    Two hundred steps, one kill with a single shot!

    "Good shot!"

    "Mr. Chen is valiant!"

    "Valiant!"

    "..."

    Hundreds of soldiers cried out in unison.

    "Good!"

    Xiang Tingchun, who sat atop the fortress gate, cheered loudly, "Excellent archery, upholding the might of our Great Dasheng!"

    Although only one barbarian cavalryman had died.

    Everyone felt as if they had gained a huge advantage as they looked at the dense group of people bing insignificant, their hearts invigorated and hands itching for a fight.

    This was morale!

    ...

    Ten miles away.

    Wu Mu''er, a barbarian Household leader on the observation tower, had an unpleasant expression on his face.

    His original n was to intimidate the Sheng people before attacking, but the result was the opposite of what he had intended.

    "How could we, the Heavenly n, who rely on our skills with the bow and horse, lose to the Sheng people?!"

    He asked solemnly, "Who has outstanding archery skills?"

    "I have Admiral Mu Ge!"

    Ji Rentai, another Household leader at his side, spoke up, "This man uses a five-stone bow and can hit a target a hundred steps away with one of his three arrows!"

    "Good!"

    Wu Mu''er issued an order, "Send up Mu Ge and tell him that shooting down that archer just now will be rewarded with twenty taels of gold, five hundred taels of silver, and three hundred heads of cattle and sheep!"

    ...

    "Here theye again!"

    Xu Wencaiy on the ground, cautiously looking ahead as another menacing barbarian approached.

    "Sheng people, if you''re brave, don''t use numbers to overwhelm me or shoot chaotic arrows at me!"

    Mu Ge came unarmed except for the longbow in his hand, his voice booming, "Call out that archer from just now. I''llpete with him in archery, staking our lives on the oue!"

    "I am right here!"

    Chen Sansi stood atop the wall, letting the enemye within about a hundred steps.

    "So arrogant?!"

    Mu Ge gritted his teeth and shot an arrow from his bow.

    Under the watchful eyes of all, Chen Sansi neither dodged nor flinched, but instead drew his own bow and loosed a thundering arrow.

    "Ding!"

    A light, crisp sound rang out.

    The two arrows collided precisely in midair, veering off and falling to the ground.

    "What?!"

    Mu Ge was shocked.

    From atop the wall, Chen Sansi looked down, "Come again."

    "Fine, let''s do this!"

    Mu Ge adjusted his breathing, calmed himself, and shot three arrows in quick session.

    "Ding ding ding!"

    Yet each arrow was effortlessly shot down with unerring uracy.

    "Baturu!"

    Mu Ge was struck dumb, standing still in shock for a long while before awakening from the nightmare and calling out in terror, "The number one Baturu, the number one Baturu!"

    Using an arrow to block an arrow.

    Such a divine skill could only be achieved by the grasnd''s number one Baturu!

    How could there be such a formidable person in the insignificant Po Yang County?

    Mu Ge no longer dared to continue thepetition; he turned to flee.

    But it was toote.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    A spade-shaped Qi Pi Arrow struck his horse.

    Mu Ge fell hard.

    Before he could rise, a willow-leaf arrow pierced his thigh.

    Then another hit his other leg, right hand, and left and right.

    "Ah!"

    Unable to die and unable to live, Mu Ge writhed and howled beneath the city wall.

    "Divine Archer!"

    "Mr. Chen is likely one of the rarest Divine Archers in the world!"

    "Brothers, with Mr. Chen here, how could the barbarians possibly breach our Great Wall?!"

    "..."

    The two hundred mile Great Wall.

    What they saw and heard was passed on and deliberately exaggerated, and in a short time, the morale of the officials and soldiers reached its peak.

    ...

    "Useless!"

    Wu Mu''er cursed, "Ji Rentai, is this the Divine Archer you told me about?!"

    Ji Rentai remained silent.

    Mu Ge was at least a Bone Forger with a small achievement.

    And yet he was defeated so effortlessly?

    "Let''s rest!"

    Wu Mu''er said solemnly, "In two days, we''ll discuss the siege again."

    They had suffered defeats twice in a row.

    Attacking now would only make things more difficult.

    They had to wait out the period when the enemy''s morale was high.

    What else could they do?

    It''s not like the two main generals could personally challenge the enemy.

    Facing such a challenge meant facing a barrage of arrows.

    If there was a chance to kill a main general, the concept of "martial virtue" would be irrelevant.

    ...

    "My lord, what a strategy!"

    Xu Wencai eximed in admiration, "After such an event, the barbarians'' morale has plummeted to rock bottom, and they will not dare to attack again for a short time!"

    The inside and outside of the Great Wall suddenly fell silent.

    It wasn''t until the third day at dawn that the sound of war drums rang out again.

    A dense mass of ck dots advanced toward the Great Wall, as the barbarians officially began their siege.

 Chapter 93 Blood Battle at the Great Wall

    "Liven up!"

    The Household heads responsible for defending the Great Wall at various stages began to encourage their subordinates to give their all.

    Archery relishing its triumph was already a past affair from three days ago; although the awe it inspired lingered, the excitement had long since faded.

    This was also why the barbarians were finallyunching their siege.

    Within the fortress gate.

    Xiang Tingchun ordered, "Release arrows!"

    An Order Officer immediately ryed themand.

    Each signal tower was purposefully equipped with archers and crossbowmen. As soon as the barbarian soldiers approached within about two hundred steps, everyone aimed slightly above and in front of them and unleashed a barrage of arrows, creating a parabolic rain of projectiles.

    The siege.

    Unlike what''s portrayed on television.

    It was absolutely not a matter of wielding a shield and sword, yelling battle cries, and charging forward¡ªif it were so, there would be countless deaths no matter how many came.

    Laying siege required the use of many pieces of machinery.

    Take, for instance, the barbarians in the frontmost ranks¡ªall were shielded by wooden curtain carts and Fenwen Cars.

    Wooden curtain carts.

    These are siege engines covered with wooden nks for protection.

    In front of the vehicle, thick wooden nks shielded from the arrow rain, while soldiers hid behind them and pushed the cart forward without showing themselves.

    Fenwen Cars.

    Simr pieces of equipment, all made of iron, essentially a group of soldiers rushing forward carrying an iron shed on their back.

    Moreover, the barbarians also set up an Arrow Formation, shooting wildly at the city walls.

    Relying solely on a barrage of arrows to stop them was impossible. At most, it would kill only a few of their soldiers. In the end, they had to wait until the enemy attempted to climb the walls before they could significantly reduce the enemy''s numbers.

    Chen Sansi''s fifteen-stone bow could easily prate themon bamboo armor shields, cowhide shields, and thinner iron shields, virtually counting each flex of the fingers as a life imed.

    [Skill: Archery (small achievement)]

    [Progress: (508/1000)]

    With continued training like this, it wouldn''t be long before his archery reached Great Sess.

    But in the end, he was just one person, unable to withstand the thousand-strong army.

    Soon.

    The barbarian soldiers reached the base of the city wall and sessfully set up the scalingdders.

    Scalingdders.

    They weren''t just anydders butdder carriages, extremely heavy pieces of engineering, weighing up to thousands of catties. They could adjust their angle flexibly, had iron hooks to secure to the wall, and the base could form a triangle with the wall, making them incredibly sturdy.

    One after another, the barbarians began to climb up thedders.

    Log rams and boulders proved their worth, smashing down onto those below with the force of copsing mountains. As soon as a brave warrior climbed halfway, they were doused from above with scalding "golden juice".

    "I''ve saved this for you for days. Have a taste, all of you try it!"

    Zhu Tong roared, pouring down bucket after bucket.

    The boiling temperature, once it injured the skin, would lead to bacterial and viral infections. Without effective treatment, it was practically a death sentence.

    Chen Sansi stood guard beside them; whoever dared to show their head would be stabbed with a thrust of his three-meter long spear.

    On the defensive side, one man could indeed hold the pass against ten thousand.

    Shortly, he had stabbed over twenty people to death, not allowing a single enemy soldier to climb over the wall.

    Gradually, the area he was responsible for quieted down.

    Over two hundred li of the Great Wall.

    The barbarians couldn''t possibly attack along the entire line; they mainly chose to attack weaker points.

    Even so, the first round of the siege didn''tst too long.

    Two hourster, the barbarians sounded the retreat.

    A siege was inherently a prolonged affair.

    Today''s assault was likely just a probe.

    The soldiers began to clean up the battlefield and assess the situation.

    In this round, the barbarians lost over four hundred men, while the Po Yang Thousand Households lost just over fifty, most of whom died from random arrows during the defense. The ratio of losses looked quite favorable.

    But what the barbarians sent today were the so-called "old, weak, sick, and disabled."

    This could be seen from the tattered leather armors on their bodies, and moreover, not a single bone training martial artist had yet appeared. It was clear they intended to use these four hundred weakened troops to gauge the truebat strength of the Great Wall.

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (entry-level)]

    [Progress: 388/500]

    In livebat.

    The skill ofmanding soldiers rapidly improved.

    With the mainstay''s support.

    The soldiers under Chen Sansi''smand, despite feeling mentally tense, did not panic and always coordinated well. Coupled with him standing at the forefront, only two men died in battle and three were wounded.

    "Lazybones!"

    The stinking Zhu Tong dragged Xu Wencai, who had been cowering in a corner, out into the open, "Didn''t you say it was the end for us? The barbarians look like nothing but wine sacks and rice bags to me!"

    "It hasn''t even started yet!"

    Xu Wencai informed, "They haven''t even brought out the bone training warriors. They haven''t used digging tunnels or earth bags and such tactics yet!"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi let the old schr enlighten his men while he himself wasted no time in practicing martial arts. He also took the opportunity to ask Xiang Tingchun for leave to go hunting in the mountains, iming he wanted to reward his subordinates.

    Having just earned a significant merit, he couldn''t afford to grant rewards, so he was entitled to some privileges.

    Riding the White Swan Horse, he went up to the mountains to soak in medicinal baths and practice martial arts, also improving his medical skills.

    When he returned, he brought a couple of hunted animals to the Great Wall for everyone to share. This continued for ten days, during which the barbarians didn''t seem eager tounch another full-scale assault. Instead, they beat drums every midnight and sent small groups of soldiers to shoot arrows and harass during the day.

    "Siege exhaustion tactics, huh..."

    Chen Sansi was well aware.

    As long as they didn''tck food and fodder, such wear-down strategies would advantage the barbarians. On one hand, their numbers were vast, creating increasing pressure for the soldiers of the Great Wall. Plus, with the cold weather, it was a torture to huddle on the ground everyday.

    Speaking of which, it was almost the twelfth lunar month, and the Northern Territory had yet to see snow.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    If a blizzard did set in, that could press the barbarians as well.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear. Upper (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 899/2000]

    The cultivation speed had slowed down.

    The efficacy of the Dew Condensation Body Forging Soup was much less than before.

    At this rate, it would take at least twenty more days to achieve Bone Forging Perfection.

    However, medical skill was on the verge of a breakthrough.

    Medical Officer Jiang also came to the Great Wall with the army. Chen Sansi used the excuse of helping, but in reality, he was improving his proficiency. After pushing the medicine mill, he began practicing acupuncture on a wooden man covered with drawn acupoints.

    Medical skill included more than just herbs. Acupuncture was also one of its types.

    He had memorized all the acupoints and acupuncture techniques - they were "etched in his memory" - and now all that was left was to familiarize himself with the hand-feel. In the course of an afternoon, he had basically learned it all.

    Finally, the panel floated up.

    [Skill: Medical Skill. Mortal (Proficient)]

    [Progress: 0/1000]

    [Utility: Recognize Medicine, Cure All Poison]

    [Cure All Poison: Medical skill is unparalleled, knowing all there is to know, such that all poisons of the mortal world can be cured upon sight.]

    Cure poison?

    Chen Sansi had the ability to Recognize Medicine, which allowed him to prevent others from poisoning his food, but hecked the skill to cure poison. Whether in the Jianghu or on the battlefield, there were always those who favored using poison, the cunning and treacherous ones.

    With this skill at his disposal, he was essentially immune to "poison".

    "Dong dong dong!"

    After many days, the familiar sound of war drums echoed in his ears once again.

    "Medical Officer Jiang, I must go."

    Chen Sansi''s heart tightened as he dropped the silver needles and left, arriving at the city wall only to see hordes of barbarians surging forward like a tide. This time, it was not the old, weak, sick, or disabled¡ªit was a full-on assault!

    The number and quality were far greater than before. Siege engines were ced at the very front, followed by Shield Gunners and Crossbowmen. At the back were two thousand uniformly arranged Cavalry.

    Moreover, there were an additional five hundred Heavy Cavalry bringing up the rear.

    These Heavy Cavalry were not just fully armored from head to toe, but even the vital parts of the horses beneath them were fully armored as well¡ªtruly the elite of the elite.

    Last time, on the grasnds.

    If they had encountered this group of people.

    Zhu Tong and his men probably wouldn''t have had a single survivor!

    The Cavalry stopped at a distance of two miles, forming the rear guard. The remaining four thousand infantry spread out, some feigning attacks while othersunched the main assault, blurring the line between the real and the fake to such an extent that the Great Wall''s defenses couldn''t adjust in time.

    "We are here for a feint attack!"

    At the section Chen Sansi was responsible for, some people initially came over to set updders, but those who climbed up were few, and soon everyone withdrew, leaving only the emptydders behind.

    "Chen Hundred Households! Quickly lead thirty men to the alpha signal tower on the east side of the city gate to provide support. Hundred Households Zhao can''t hold on any longer!"

    The Order Officer''smand was delivered with a dy.

    By the time Chen Sansi and his men arrived at the designated spot, he saw that fourdders had already been mounted on the wall. Zhao Kang was entangled in a fight with a Barbarian Hundred Households, and his men were guarding around thedders, obviously unable to attend to other matters.

    Not far behind thedders, severalrge Siege Carriages were also taking advantage of the situation to advance.

    Siege Carriage!

    This carriage was thergest type of war carriage of the age. The one in front of them was not the biggest but nevertheless stood two fathoms high and many fathoms wide. The interior was divided into threeyers, and aside from being able to amodate nearly a hundred soldiers, it was also equipped with heavy crossbow poison arrows and heavy hammers.

    The soldiers at the top of the carriage could directly leap into the city wall, while those at the bottom were responsible for chiseling and digging, damaging the city itself.

    If they allowed them to arrive smoothly in front, coupled with an influx of barbarians, the Great Wall would be thrown intoplete chaos, and then it wouldn''t be impossible for it to fall!

    "Set fire!"

    Chen Sansi ordered calmly.

    The torch basins had long been prepared.

    The archers, including Chen Sansi himself, began using fire arrows equipped with iron cages. They first lit the oily cloth with torches, then pulled their bows and shot arrows, targeting the siege carriage.

    But since the enemy dared to bring the war carriage over, how could they not be prepared at all? The Water Dragon Car followed right behind the war carriage, dousing any ming arrows before they could ignite the vehicle.

    Fortunately, the water carriage had a limited capacity.

    Under the deluge of fiery arrow rain that was like an engulfing sea of mes, they ultimately managed to set two carriages aze.

    At the same time.

    The distant catapult started to hurl stones en masse. Huge boulders, like meteors from the sky, crashed thunderously onto the city wall, and within just a few rounds, they had smashed a giant gap in the century-old wall.

    Unless they were martial artists with a minor achievement in Blood Refining or above, anyone who didn''t dodge would be smashed into a pulp on the spot.

    Amidst various distractions, eventually one carriage managed to stop right in front of the wall.

    Barbarian soldiers came pouring out one after another, but the vast majority were killed by a long spear before they could even jump out.

    "Charge, all of you charge!"

    "He''s just one man!"

    "He who climbs the wall first shall gain the greatest honor!"

    It could be seen that the people who hade with Chen Sansi to support were forced to put down their bows and help defend the scalingdders that were close to being overrun. In front of the war carriage, there was only him!

    The barbarians burst forth with incredible drive, wanting to achieve the great feat of being the first to mount the wall, surging forward like beasts freed from their cages.

    Chen Sansi showed no fear and stood alone in front of the siege carriage. His long spear danced in the air like countless flying snakes, leaving no gaps unguarded. Any barbarian brazen enough to poke their head out would soon find a transparent hole in their body, and after a relentless attacksting five minutes, the bodies piled up in the carriage exit, with not a single person managing to stand on the wall for more than two seconds!

    "All of you, get out of my way!"

    A deafening roar came from inside the carriage¡ªa burly man used his own soldiers as human shields, seizing the chance to break out of the carriage and close in with a Wolf Fang Club raised overhead to strike.

    "ng¡ª"

    The Zhenyue Sword at Chen Sansi''s waist suddenly unsheathed.

    All everyone saw was a sh of cold light, and the head of the burly man, who had only minor sess in Bone Training, rolled on the ground. He was no match for Chen Sansi!

    "Ah..."

    The barbarians inside the carriage were as if drenched with a bucket of cold water. Their desire for valorpletely extinguished and their will to survive surged forward. Over a hundred pairs of eyes stared, shuffling in ce, with no one daring to rush forward again.

    On the contrary, Chen Sansi proactively charged into the crowd. His right-hand Lu Ye spear swept all around while his left-hand Zhenyue sword reaped those who slipped through the, cutting down heads in a flurry of shes.

    Not knowing who started it, someone shouted "Retreat," and they all scrambled to jump down from the carriage. Those who jumped a bit slow gained a bloody hole, and inside the carriage, they trampled over each other, innumerable dead or injured; blood sprayed everywhere, staining the war carriage red.

    And just at this moment.

    Horns sounded beyond the Great Wall, and the barbarians beat gongs to signal retreat.

 Chapter 94 The Imperial Edict of Reward

    After the sounding of the retreat.

    The barbarian soldiers beneath the city walls began their disorganized withdrawal.

    "They''re retreating?"

    Chen Sansi plunged his long spear into the ground, wiped the sticky blood from his face, and stood on high ground overlooking the battlefield.

    Just now was actually the most dangerous time.

    Why the sudden retreat?

    There must have been an unexpected turn of events.

    Indeed.

    It wasn''t long before news arrived.

    While the barbarians were focusing on the main attack at the city gates, one of their main generals led three hundred elites in a fierce assault on a weak point on the west side, sessfully breaching the wall and killing amander with the surname Qian on the spot.

    Fortunately, Xiang Tingchun and Dan Yuanzhi arrived just in time and killed that main general.

    With the loss of a main general, it meant that the barbarians had only one Refining Organ martial artist left, and they had no choice but to temporarily retreat and regroup.

    In fact, this moment was often the best opportunity to pursue the enemy outside the city.

    However, Po Yang had insufficient troops, and the barbarians had deliberately left cavalry in the rear for support.

    The soldiers began to clean up the battlefield.

    Chen Sansi sat down to rest.

    Only at dusk was the counting finished.

    In this round, they killed a thousand enemies but lost two hundred soldiers, most of whom were newly recruited, and a hundred Martial Arts Academy Disciples died; it was said that the remaining disciples had dispersed like birds and beasts, and a search was already underway to capture them.

    That is to say, what was left of Po Yang''s fighting strength was only about nine hundred.

    "Mr. Chen, Households Commander Xiang has called everyone over."

    Within the camp.

    Everyone, having fought half the day, was exhausted and most had sustained minor injuries.

    Sun Li''s paleplexion was likewise smeared with blood.

    Sun Buqi''s arm had been cut.

    "Shanshi!"

    Xiang Tingchun inquired, "What do you think we should do next?"

    "Retreat."

    Chen Sansi gave his answer, "The defensive line is stretched too thin, and Po Yang has too few troops. Continuing to defend this way, today''s close call will happen again soon. It''s better to fall back and clear the fields, retreat to within the county city, and concentrate our forces to defend the high walls; there''s still a chance of victory."

    "Hmm, your thoughts align with mine."

    Xiang Tingchun didn''t even consult others before immediately issuing an order, "Feng Yong, Zhao Kang, the two of you are responsible for bringing all the civilians from outside the city inside by dawn tomorrow. Be sure to leave the fields bare, not leaving a single grain of food behind. The rest of you, continue to defend the Great Wall tonight; nobody is to leave their post without permission!"

    "Yes!"

    Feng Yong and the others epted the order and left.

    "Magistrate Ji."

    Xiang Tingchun continued, "How is the situation in An Ding Prefecture?"

    Ji Guangxian sighed, "The fighting there is fierce. It''s impossible to send reinforcements over. Households Commander Xiang, you can put that hope to rest. But tonight, an old ve with a small sess in Refining Organs from my family will arrive, which might be of some help."

    "This time, we are truly grateful to Magistrate Ji."

    Xiang Tingchun breathed a sigh of relief.

    With this, they would have four Refining Organ martial artists against the barbarians'' one.

    Along with the advantage of defending the high walls, there was a very good chance of holding out until An Ding Prefecture could spare troops for reinforcement.

    Defending Po Yang with a thousand men would also be considered a great achievement.

    "Mr. Xiang needn''t thank me."

    Ji Guangxian spoke indifferently, "The current His Highness has always been concerned for the country and its people. He definitely doesn''t wish to see the Great Sheng Dynasty lose any city. By helping you, I am also serving the court."

    The two stayed behind to talk.

    The others dispersed one by one.

    "Sir!"

    Xu Bin had been waiting outside for a long time, "Could I possibly..."

    "You can''t go back, and I can''t either."

    Chen Sansi knew what he was about to say.

    Xu Bin''s child was probably just born, and now with the call to clear the fields, it meant that all the civilians from outside the city would have to sleep on the streets for a long time, and he was certainly worried about their safety.

    Chen Sansi was also concerned about Sister Lan.

    He found Sun Li, who understood without being told, "I''m not under anyone''smand. Temporarily leaving does not count as desertion. Don''t worry, I will ensure Sister Lan and...the family of your subordinate are well taken care of."

    "Thank you!"

    Chen Sansi bowed with fist in palm.

    He returned to his post on the city wall and counted the number of his troops.

    Twenty had been sacrificed.

    Most of them died defending the clouddders while he was reinforcing Zhao Kang.

    Having an excellent memory wasn''t always entirely good.

    After a true battle of blood, the atmosphere grew more solemn; even Zhu Tong no longer acted carefree as before, but sat quietly on the walltop meditating.

    Chen Sansi rested briefly, then continued to practice martial arts.

    The silver lining was that the Xi River tribes didn''t attack again overnight, and by daylight, they were all able to retreat safely into the city.

    The walls of Po Yang City were three zhang high and two zhang thick, extremely sturdy. Plus, with one Refining Organ Martial Artist stationed at each of the east, south, west, and north sides of the city walls, it was nearly impossible for the barbarians to break through easily.

    It was a pity that many viges outside the city would be burnt to the ground, but that was unavoidable.

    "Mr. Chen."

    A well-built middle-aged man with a short beard climbed onto the city wall.

    "And you are?"

    Chen Sansi became alert.

    The man before him breathed deeply and had a steady step. He was very simr to Xiang Tingchun and was very likely another Refining Organ martial artist.

    "Mr. Chen, there''s no need for rm."

    The middle-aged man introduced himself, "My surname is Han, and my name is Cheng. I''m a guard under Magistrate Xue, but you can call me Guard Han."n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "Pleased to meet you."

    Chen Sansi greeted him with a bow.

    He had previously overheard at the Liang Family residence that even a petty county magistrate like Xue had a Refining Organ Martial Artist by his side, and it turned out to be true.

    Moreover, during the previous fierce battle at the Great Wall, this person did not make a move.

    He asked, "Guard Han, what brings you here?"

    "There is an imperial decree."

    Han Cheng made a gesture of invitation.

    "An imperial decree?"

    Chen Sansi spected that it was something about Ninth Prince Yu Wen, and the authorities in the Capital City must have responded.

    He then followed the other party and walked to the residence of the magistrate.

    "Mr. Chen."

    All of a sudden, Han Cheng stopped, "In a moment, Magistrate Xue will read the imperial decree. Whatever is asked of you, just agree, and if anything happens¡­ Supervisor Sun will have your back. Remember, you must agree to everything!"

    "?"

    Chen Sansi was taken aback.

    He quickly realized that the person before him, Han Cheng, seemed... actually to be Supervisor Sun''s man.

    The Sun Li siblings had mentioned in private that Magistrate Xue was the Emperor''s man, yet he had Supervisor Sun''s person hidden by his side, and also wanted him to follow the imperial decree.

    Howplicated.

    Only by going in would he be able to find out what exactly was going on.

    "All right, I will remember that," he said.

    Chen Sansi nodded in agreement.

    Only then did Han Cheng continue to lead the way.

    Inside the hall, Magistrate Xue was dressed in official garments, sitting upright on a Taishi Chair.

    By his side, there stood another guard.

    Could it be another Refining Organ Martial Artist?

    Two Refining Organ Martial Artists apanying a single magistrate?

    "Mr. Chen."

    Seeing them, Magistrate Xue cautiously got up, "It is remiss of me not to have met you at a distance. Please forgive me."

    "Magistrate Xue is too polite,"

    Chen Sansi gave a formal bow.

    Just speaking in terms of rank, he was one level higher than a seventh-rank magistrate.

    "Then I will get straight to the point," said Magistrate Xue as he cleared his throat, took out the golden silk decree that was already prepared, slowly unfolded it, and read aloud:

    "By the mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees, ''Captain Chengxin, Chen Sansi, with a body of youth and the realm of Bone Training, prated deep into enemy territory for four hundred li and captured the Ninth Prince Yuwen alive; his loyalty and courage aremendable. He is hereby appointed as a fifth-rank Cavalry Captain, bestowed with a box of Bone Training treasure medicine, and a pot of Imperial Wine, this I decree.''"

    "Your servant epts the decree with gratitude,"

    Chen Sansi received the imperial order with both hands.

    A fifth-rank Cavalry Captain is a military officer''s honorary rank and does not entail an actual position.

    In this world, military achievements are tied to one''s cultivation realm. His sixth-rank official title with a fifth-rank honorary rank was already exceptional.

    But that wasn''t key, and he didn''t care about it.

    What interested Chen Sansi was the Bone Training treasure medicine.

    The items given by the Emperor were bound not to be of poor quality.

    It would be good to seize the chance to break through to Bone Forging Perfection in order to cope with the uing battles.

    Additionally, there didn''t seem to be any special content in the imperial edict?

    What did Supervisor Sun''s man mean about having his back, and what exactly was there to cover?

    "Mr. Chen,"

    Magistrate Xue showed a smile, "At such a young age, you have gained the Emperor''s favor; the prospects for your future are limitless!"

    "You tter me, Magistrate Xue,"

    Chen Sansi replied politely, eager to get the treasure medicine quickly.

    Magistrate Xue, however, was unhurried. He took a Jade Pot from the tray held by a servant, poured a cup of wine, and handed it over, "Mr. Chen, the Emperor''s Imperial Wine must be consumed on the spot ording to tradition. I hope you will not disappoint His Majesty''s will."

    [Green Blood Poison Dew: Colorless and tasteless; once ingested, it blends into the flesh. It will not act for three months, but after three months, without an antidote, one will suffer pierced intestines, belly rupture, bleed from seven orifices and die a violent death.]

    Poisoned wine?! The old Emperor rewards me with poisoned wine for my merits?

    Is the "agree to everything" Guard Han mentioned referring to this?

    Chen Sansi''s thoughts raced, though his face remained expressionless.

    ''The poisoned wine takes three months to take effect.''

    ''This means the Emperor doesn''t want to kill me.''

    ''Instead... he wants to control me!''

    Chen Sansi suddenly saw the light.

    The Emperor had no reason to kill him.

    If he really wanted to kill a small Bone Trainer like him, there would be no need for such secretive poisoning with a three-month dy.

    If the purpose was to control him discreetly, then it made sense.

    But what for?

    If he does well within three months, he would be quietly given the antidote, and everything would be as if nothing had happened.

    If he does poorly, would he then die from poisoning?

    To drink or not to drink?

    It seemed like "having his back" meant that Supervisor Sun would provide the antidote, allowing him to feignpliance for now.

    Of course.

    Chen Sansi would not fully trust either side.

    After all, he was, for the moment, merely a Selected Point in name only and had no actual connection with Supervisor Sun.

    But, given the circumstances,

    He had no choice but to drink.

    After all, he could detoxify himself!

    With that thought in mind, Chen Sansi lifted the cup and drained it in one gulp.

 Chapter 95 The Fall of An Ding Prefectures Great Wall

    The county magistrate Xue watched him drink the wine, his mouth corners imperceptibly curling.

    "Good wine!"

    Chen Sansi inverted his wine cup to indicate he had finished drinking and suggested, "Magistrate Xue, with such good wine, won''t you also have a taste?"

    "That simply won''t do."

    Magistrate Xue stepped back half a step, "An imperial gift is not for outsiders to enjoy."

    "Such a pity that I must enjoy this fine wine alone."

    Chen Sansi drank another cup and asked, "I am a simple man, following the rules, must I drink it all up?"

    "That''s not necessary," Magistrate Xue shook his head, "Mr. Chen, you can take the rest to save as a treasure."

    "If there''s nothing else, may I take my leave?"

    Chen Sansi prepared to leave.

    "Wait a moment, Mr. Chen,"

    Magistrate Xue stated, "I still have something to say."

    He didn''t speak before, preferring to wait until after the poisoned wine was drunk.

    It seemed his guess was correct.

    Drinking poisoned wine meant obedience and worth using.

    Refusing to drink meant defiance, guaranteeing not immediate execution but an uncertain fate.

    Chen Sansi, however, was eager to see what secret the old Emperor was so desperate to keep hidden.

    "Mr. Chen."

    Xue Yuping said in a low voice, "Do you know why we havee?"

    Chen Sansi feigned confusion, "Naturally, you came to serve as magistrates."

    "That, of course, but apart from that, I also bear another imperial mission,"

    Xue Yuping looked worried, "During your time in the Households, did you ever hear of something called ''Immortal Treasure''?"

    Chen Sansi shook his head nkly.

    "It''s quite normal for you not to know, given that you haven''t been practicing martial arts for long,"

    Xue Yuping exined, "My task is to find a treasure left by an Immortal before the war''s end."

    "You must be joking, Magistrate Xue,"

    Chen Sansi said in surprise, "How could there be Immortals in this world?"

    "There certainly are, isn''t our current Emperor the Emperor Wan Shou Himself?"

    Xue Yuping looked towards another guard and ordered in a stern voice, "Tang Ming, how is the investigation going? Speak freely, Household Officer Chen is one of us."

    "Alright."

    Tang Ming nodded, "The martial arts hall is definitely suspicious, especially the one surnamed Liang, he''s been loitering outside the county government these past few days, looking sneaky and indecisive."

    Liang Shengzhi?

    Chen Sansi knew what he was trying to do.

    It seemed the fire of the Immortal Treasure would soon reach Xiang Tingchun, and it can''t be concealed forever; it''lle to light eventually.N?v(el)B\\jnn

    "Use both kindness and severity, don''t just force things, and make sure to interrogate thoroughly; any crimes can be discussedter,"

    Xue Yuping changed the subject, "Any news on the Witch God Sect?"

    "Intelligence says..."

    Tang Ming''s expression hardened, "Arge group of experts beyond the Hua Jin stage is expected to arrive."

    Beyond the Hua Jin stage?

    Chen Sansi''s guess was spot on.

    He had always felt if they were really after the Immortal Treasure, why not send powerful masters...

    What special merit does humble Po Yang have?

    With the enemy army pressing their borders, and masters infiltrating...

    Even so, it still didn''t make sense why the enemy army was at their doorstep.

    It was understandable for the Witch God Sect to seek the Immortal Treasure, but the encroaching army was baffling.

    "We really don''t have much time; we must get the item before the Witch God Sect arrives,"

    Xue Yuping stood, "Mr. Chen, you must keep today''s matters to yourself, and leak nothing. You also need to keep an eye out for the Immortal Treasure, to see if there''s any connection with the army. If any discovery is made, it will constitute a real act of Heavenly Merit."

    Chen Sansi nodded, "I will remember."

    We don''t have much time?

    The magistrate Xue must know some secrets but wouldn''t reveal them easily.

    This poisoned wine, it really was right to drink it.

    For in it, perhaps there was a sliver of life.

    Because he drank the poisoned wine,

    It meant that he was now the old Emperor''s man.

    The conversation ended.

    Xue Yuping had Han Cheng see the guest out.

    Once outside the prefect residence, Han Cheng whispered, "Mr. Chen, do whatever Magistrate Xue tells you next, avoid withholding any information, and do not defy. The Emperor''smand is divine imperative."

    Chen Sansi understood the implicit message.

    A mere Sixth Rank official in the Bone Training Realm would find defiance to be a dead end.

    Not just him, even Supervisor Sun''s third son paid a heavy price for his youthful arrogance, didn''t he?

    Ultimately, it came down to insufficient personal strength.

    "Thank you for the advice, Guard Han."

    Chen Sansi gave a fist salute.

    It was clear that Han Cheng was giving him a warning.

    No matter the reason, pleasantries needed to be exchanged.

    He probed, "Guard Han, is something significant about to happen?"

    "I do not know,"

    Han Cheng shook his head, "I''m merely following Supervisor''s orders to look after you for a bit; the rest is still uncertain."

    "I shall take my leave."

    Chen Sansi didn''t press further.

    He mounted his White Swan Horse, and along with Wang Zhi, he set out on a scouting mission. Unlike the previous journey to the grasnds, they moved mostly solo to keep a low profile. Midway, he turned directly towards Tiger Head Mountain.

    In the cave.

    With the aid of the "Cure All Poison," Chen Sansi quickly concocted an antidote.

    He also did notck the necessary materials.

    When he previously obtained medicine from the Liang Family, he had taken away all the medicinal ingredients from the storeroom, among which included several specific treasure medicines used for detoxification.

    "Pfft¡ª¡ª"

    Apanied by abdominal cramps, he violently spat out a mouthful of ck blood, signifying the poison had been neutralized.

    The Green Blood Poison Dew wasn''t considered a world-ss rare poison; its advantagey in its colorless and odorless nature, making it difficult to detect.

    Had it not been for Chen Sansi''s ability to "Recognize Medicine," he might have truly believed it was the emperor''s kind gesture of rewarding a meritorious official with fine wine, especially since no abnormalities would appear in the body shortly after ingestion.

    Three monthster, if he indeed became a confidant of the emperor, someone would secretly administer the antidote.

    In this way, without anyone being any wiser, the rtionship between monarch and subject would not suffer from any rift over this incident.

    On the contrary, if he failed to be a confidant of the emperor, he would naturally sumb to the poison in an inexplicable manner, perhaps never knowing how he met his end.

    What a cunning scheme!

    "Very well, very well, I''ll be your damn confidant!"

    Chen Sansi took out the wooden box that had been awarded to him, and upon opening it, therey five red medicine pills, which were presumably the so-called Bone Forging treasure medicine, and this time, they were not poisoned.

    These pills were known as "Mysterious Primordial Bone Tempering Pills," each worth over five hundred taels of silver. The entire box added up to several thousand taels of silver.

    Even if Chen Sansi could decipher how to make it, it would be difficult for him to gather all the necessary materials.

    With them, he would quickly reach Bone Forging Perfection.

    Without wasting any time, he packed up his belongings and descended the mountain, riding Little Xun around outside the city. He discovered that the barbarians had indeed breached the wall.

    That very evening.

    The barbariansunched a new round of assaults.

    It was still the samebination of catapults, volleys of arrows, and various other siege enginesvishly pummeling the walls; thankfully, the four Refining Internal experts each defended a side of the wall. Despite substantial losses, the situation was temporarily kept under control, albeit barely.

    But this led to an even more dire situation.

    Three dayster, the night watch brought back intelligence.

    The barbarian tribes were going toplete their second reinforcement in seven days.

    By then, their military strength would increase to ten thousand, and the number of Refining Internal experts would rise to three!

    "Has the Yuwen n gone mad?!"

    A civilian house near the north city gate had been requisitioned and turned into the Central Army''s headquarters. Xiang Tingchun paced back and forth anxiously in the hall, his body and face covered in bloodstains. He too had not returned home once since the beginning of the battle and was basically on wall duty around the clock.

    "Tell me, what exactly are they plotting? Even if they capture Po Yang County, what then? Could it be that they n to bypass the Hutou Mountain Range andy siege to An Ding Prefecture?!"

    That was absolutely impossible.

    Looking at the sand table.

    An Ding Prefecture was located southeast of Po Yang County, with the Hutou Mountain Range in between. Even if Po Yang County was captured, it was not possible to cross the mountains and go directly to An Ding Prefecture, as it would be impossible to transport supplies and horses through there.

    To reach An Ding Prefecture, one would have to take a detour to Hengkang Prefecture in the southwest of Po Yang and then capture Hengkang Prefecture to get to An Ding Prefecture. Such a roundabout route was utterly pointless and unnecessary.

    Unless...

    An Ding Prefecture''s Great Wall had already fallen!

    The barbarian army maneuvering around the city could then move to the rear of Hengkang Prefecture. Attacking Hengkang Prefecture from both front and rear in conjunction with the tribe at Xi River, they could capture Hengkang Prefecture in one fell swoop, thereby cutting off the surrounding prefectures and towns and isting An Ding Prefecture. Once that was achieved, they could proceed with the siege. The risk was great, but this was the only logic that made sense.

    And all of this depended on a prerequisite.

    The breaching of An Ding Prefecture''s Great Wall!

    Connecting this to what County Magistrate Xue had implied about time being short...

    "Households Commander Xiang!"

    Having understood the situation, Chen Sansi quickly spoke, "Please send someone immediately to An Ding Prefecture to find out the state of the battle!"

    "You mean to say An Ding Prefecture is in danger?!"

    "If that''s the case, won''t Po Yang County city be like a turtle caught in a jar?"

    Xiang Tingchun''s expression was stern as he immediately ordered, "Zhao Kang, carry out Mr. Chen''s instructions swiftly!"

    "Yes!"

    ...

    Another three days passed.

    The Xi River tribe did not attack again, standing still, obviously waiting for reinforcements.

    As a result, Po Yang County remained eerily quiet for several days.

    Chen Sansi consumed the third Mysterious Primordial Bone Tempering Pill and cultivated using the efficacy of Spiritual Grain.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear - Upper (small achievement)]

    [Progress: 1559/2000]

    It was only in the past few days.

    Once he finished the pills, he would be able to reach Bone Forging Perfection.

    Apart from that, he also continually practiced archery day and night.

    [Skill: Archery (small achievement)]

    [Progress: (808/1000)]

    If another siege were to take ce, he could even break through to Great Sess!

    On the fourth day.

    Zhao Kang, the scout sent out to gather intelligence, finally returned.

    "Sir!!"

    Zhao Kang rushed in, covered in dust and dirt from his haste and fatigue, tripping and falling to the ground. He struggled to rise, "Sir! What Chen Sansi predicted is true!

    "From the postal station, we''ve lost contact with An Ding Prefecture since six days ago.

    "I traveled day and night non-stop. Halfway there, I encountered fleeing refugees. After questioning them, I learned that seven days prior, An Ding Prefecture''s Great Wall had been breached, and fifty thousand of the barbarian Iron Cavalry had invaded.

    "Currently, An Ding Prefecture has fallen back to defend the city walls of the Prefecture City, refusing to venture out.

    "The barbarian forces have surrounded the city for a prolonged siege without sess; it''s very likely they''ll divide their troops and make a stealth attack on the rear of Hengkang Prefecture. Once they capture Hengkang Prefecture, they could cut off An Ding Prefecture''s food supply routes, and the entire Yunzhou might fall!"

    Boom!

    This information.

    Struck everyone''s hearts like thunder.

    It meant.

    That Po Yang County was hardly likely to receive any reinforcements or supplies, leaving nine hundred men to face a siege by tens of thousands of enemy forces!

    "Are you certain?!"

    Ji Guangxian found it hard to believe, "An Ding Prefecture is easy to defend and hard to attack; how could it fall so quickly!"

 Chapter 96 Bone Forging Perfection

    "Mr. Chen, you speak!"

    Xiang Tingchun habitually cast a nce.

    "Send a message to Hengkang Prefecture at top speed."N?v(el)B\\jnn

    Chen Sansi gazed at the sand table and said in a deep voice, "The current situation has An Ding Prefecture, where most of Yunzhou''s forces are stationed, under siege. Only Hengkang Prefecture might still be able to send reinforcements."

    "It''s no use."

    Xiang Tingchun shook his head, "Well before the Xi River tribes sent troops to attack Po Yang, I had already written to Hengkang Prefecture. They said they are thest line of defense in Yunzhou. Unless there''s an order, they won''t send a single soldier or scout elsewhere.

    "Under these circumstances, by the time the battle report reaches the Capital City Ministry of War and orders are issued from there, who knows how long it will take? How could it possibly be in time?"

    "That was then, this is now."

    Chen Sansi spoke, "Now that An Ding Prefecture is besieged, once Po Yang County falls, Hengkang Prefecture will be facing enemies on both sides. If we exin the gravity of the situation to them, how could they not help at all?"

    "We can only try."

    Xiang Tingchun nodded, "Who among you will go?"

    "I''ll go!"

    Wang Zhi stepped forward, "I''m acquainted with the Commander of the Hengkang Prefectural guards. If I talk to him, I could at least muster a thousand men, no, two thousand!"

    Chen Sansi remembered this incident.

    Fatty Wang had twice gone to the Prefecture City to visit rtives, each time staying for ten days to half a month. Unexpectedly, he wasn''t visiting An Ding Prefecture but Hengkang Prefecture.

    "Good!"

    Xiang Tingchun patted his shoulder hard, "Hundred Households Wang, the safety of tens of thousands of people in Po Yang is now relying on you!"

    "Hm."

    Wang Zhi didn''t waste words and grabbed his Mo de, turning to leave.

    "Senior Sister Sun."

    Chen Sansi looked at Sun Li, "Is there any news from the Governor Mansion?"

    Sun Li shook her head.

    ''That shouldn''t be.''

    Chen Sansi muttered to himself.

    The existence of Han Cheng.

    Showed that Sun Dushi at least knew most of Po Yang''s situation.

    How could there be no action at all?

    It looked like the situation in the Northwest Three States was even more critical!

    "Brothers, don''t be disheartened!"

    Xiang Tingchun''s voice was loud and clear, "During Grand Ancestor''s wars of unification, General Yin Wei defended Pu City with merely seven thousand men, while the enemy forces numbered 130,000!

    "Do you think he held out for seven days or seventy days? Neither. He defended for a full seven months, annihted 120,000 of the enemy, and sessfully bought enough time for the Grand Ancestor to unify the Central ins, leading to today''s great Dasheng!

    "We have plenty of food and resources, including the fresh recruits we still have over a thousand people, and with the help of the civilians, what is there to fear from a mere ten thousand enemy soldiers!"

    Chen Sansi had read about this battle.

    The Battle of Pu City was one of the three most important battles during the establishment of the Sheng Dynasty.

    In his memory, there was a simr battle in history referred to as Zhang Xun''s defense of Suiyang.

    Po Yang County, although it was just a county, had very well-built city walls because it was a border town. If they could mobilize all the civilians in the city, it might not be impossible to hold out for two to three months. And with the reinforcements that Wang Zhi was bringing, there was still much hope.

    What Chen Sansi was truly worried about was not knowing what County Magistrate Xue, or rather, the old Emperor was nning to do.

    The Witch God Sect would also send experts above the Hua Jin level.

    The chaos was likely to arise from within!

    After everything was arranged, everyone dispersed to their respective posts to stand guard.

    "Little junior brother."

    Sun Li climbed up on the rampart and sat beside him, "Don''t you want to take a look at Sister Lan?"

    "With Senior Sister taking care of her, there''s no need."

    Chen Sansi had seventy or eighty men under hismand, none of whom had gone home. If he didn''t set a good example, how could he have the audacity to lead them into risking their lives?

    "Hmm, don''t worry. I''ve rented a house specially. Sister Lan is very safe."

    Sun Li nced at Xu Bin nearby and informed, "Also, your family is safe, mother and daughter alike."

    "Thank you, Miss Sun!"

    Upon hearing this, Xu Bin''s expression brightened, and he became even more energetic in standing guard.

    The next day.

    Feng Yong and others were rushing around, mobilizing the civilians throughout the city to help strengthen the defenses.

    It goes without saying that the refugees from the countryside were very diligent.

    The ordinary civilians in the city who could fend for themselves also did not shy away, earnestly doing anything they were asked.

    In the end, just from the gathered civilians, there were over five thousand.

    Various local gentry and elders, however, refused to exert any effort, offering only donations of money and food, and still said that defending the city was their duty, and dying on the city walls was only natural.

    As for the disciples of the Martial Arts Hall, they avoided it whenever they could, and only begrudgingly took to the task when they had no other choice.

    Some even went so far as to think that with the city''s fall being an inevitable event, they attempted to kill the gatekeepers in order to flee the city at night, but all were immediately executed on the spot.

    These people had been practicing martial arts for many years.

    Normally, they were good at oppressing civilians, but asking them toy down their lives was utterly out of the question.

    After several days of high tension among the city''s people, the Xi River tribepleted their reinforcements andunched another fierce attack.

    On the city walls.

    Lai Zi clung tightly to Chen Sansi''s side, holding the Arrow Bag for him, "Little Shanshi, if you run out, just tell Uncle. Uncle will get more for you. You just make sure to keep Uncle safe..."

    Chen Sansi had no time to pay him any attention, continuously drawing the bowstring, killing one after another who were climbing up the siegedders. When he couldn''t kill them fast enough, he used his right hand to wield a spear and his left hand a sword.

    An entire morning passed.

    He had no idea how many arrows he had fired or how many people he had killed.

    Finally.

    The long-silent archery panel floated into view.

    [Skill: Archery (Great Sess)]

    [Progress: (0/2000)]

    [Utility: Instantaneous firing of arrows, within three hundred steps, no arrow will miss]

    From shooting three arrows in a sh to firing arrows in an instant!

    An instant is 0.36 seconds.

    That is to say, he could now fire about three arrows in one second!

    He had already surpassed the limit of an ordinary person!

    Moreover, after reaching Great Sess, his archery could still be improved.

    But that wasn''t something to consider on the battlefield.

    Chen Sansi lifted his fifteen-stone bow, positioning it blocking the scalingdders. His arm, pulling the bowstring, became a blur, and the arrows nearly formed a continuous ck line. Unless the enemies carried thick iron shields, as many as came would die.

    "How can you use them up so fast!"

    Uncle Lai Ziy prostrate on the ground, dodging flying arrows and stones, incessantly crawling back and forth to fetch Arrow Bags.

    "Uncle Lai Zi, hurry up!"

    Chen Sansi pierced two men with one spear, only continuing after the Arrow Bag was delivered to him.

    "Thud!"

    An assault chariot evenrger than before sessfully reached the city wall under the cover of a mass of troops. A barbarian general wielding a huge axe chopped down five defending soldiers with a wave of his hand.

    From the exquisite full-body Armour he wore, he must have been a General, and with his striking moves being exceptionally swift and fierce, he was likely one of the three at the Refining Internal stage!

    "ng!"

    Before Chen Sansi could draw his bow and shoot an arrow, a de shed and shed against the giant axe in a struggle.

    "Chen Hundred Households!"

    Xiang Tingchun roared, "Leave him to me. Watch my back!"

    Two at the Refining Internal stage were fighting desperately, each requiring full effort; amidst such chaos, there was a chance of being sneak-attacked by a martial artist above the Bone Forging Realm.

    Chen Sansi turned the direction of his bow and arrow, aiming at the assault chariot, a one-man barrier imprable by thousands.

    After dozens of exchanges, Xiang Tingchun managed to decapitate the Refining Internal barbarian General at the cost of light wounds.

    He then joined Chen Sansi to defend the same spot, and together they killed innumerable enemies.

    This round of the siege.

    Lasted from morning until afternoon, the barbarians, realizing they couldn''t take the wall, had no choice but to sound the retreat.

    Both sides suffered heavy losses.

    After a brief tally.

    The barbarians lost at least two thousand soldiers, including one at the Refining Internal stage.

    Po Yang had over six hundred dead, five hundred of whom were civilians who came to help.

    The civilians, truly frail, had no choice but to fight to the death and rush forward.

    Because they understood the principle that if the city falls, the people perish.

    "Oh my heavens..."

    Lai Ziy in a pile of corpses: "Usually, it''s we who suffer the hardships. Now in war, we''re still used as cannon fodder. In my next life, I''d rather be a rich man''s dog than a poor man again..."

    At night.

    Chen San left the blood-drenched city wall and found a secluded and quiet ce nearby. He took thest Xuan Yuan Body Tempering Pill, ready to make a breakthrough.

    Bone Training had four stages: tendons, bones, skin, and marrow.

    Reaching Bone Forging Perfection was to Refine Marrow.

    Marrow is the core of human blood; all blood is derived from marrow.

    Only by refining the blood into the marrow, and creating new blood with the marrow topletely transform the body''s blood, could one proceed to refine the internal organs.

    The Medicine Pills given by the old Emperor weren''t specifically for Marrow Refining but were for the entire Bone Training Realm. Moreover, the medicine''s power was vast and boundless, and it didn''t harm the body. The speed at which it enhanced Cultivation was second only to Spiritual Grain, truly a first-rate treasure medicine!

    As Chen Sansi moved the long spear in his hands, the Dragon Elephant Blood within him changed from its initially burning turbulence to bing more and more calm, its temperature dropping lower and lower until it was indistinguishable from that of an ordinary person.

    The essence within seeped through his bones, sinews, Bone Membrane, infusingyer byyer into his bones and finally seeping into his bone marrow, like a raging fire touchingbustible material.

    "Hiss!"

    An excruciating heat ignited from within the bone marrow. Chen Sansi was in so much pain that veins bulged over his body and even the long spear nearly slipped from his hands multiple times. His eyes turned red, and he ground his teeth nearly to the point of breaking, moving his spear technique at an excruciatingly slow pace.

    All the essence of his Qi-Blood was absorbed.

    At this point, his Qi-Blood was entirely like that of an ordinary person. Practicing his cultivation technique was an extremely painful ordeal.

    Nearing the end of the practice, Chen Sansi''s vision darkened, and he lost all sense of where he was, what time it was, relying purely on muscle memory to continue the drill. After an unknown duration, the pain from his bone marrow finally stopped, and the old blood in his body was quickly overtaken and reced by new blood, which ultimately coursed through his entire body.

    [Cultivation Technique: Undying Golden Snake Spear - Upper (Great Sess)]

    [Progress: 0/0]

    [Utility: Dragon Elephant Blood, Nine Dragon Living Veins, Vajra Body]

    [Vajra Body: Copper Skin Iron Bone, impervious to Sword and Spear, unaffected by Water and Fire.]

    Copper Skin Iron Bone!

    Even Chen Sansi felt a momentary weakness, copsing onto the ground with spear in hand. But as the new Dragon Elephant Blood circted, he recovered to peak condition within a few breaths, and even the fatigue from the battlefield was swept away.

    He circted his Qi-Blood, and every inch of his body, from head to toe, became terrifyingly hard!

    Running the Zhenyue Sword lightly across his skin, it emitted a grating sound of metal scraping against metal!

    Yet under these conditions, his body''s movements weren''t hindered at all, which was simply inconceivable.

    He was confident that, if he were to stand here now and let a martial artist at the Blood Refining Great Sesssh out wildly, his skin wouldn''t even break for a short time.

    As long as his Qi-Blood was sufficient, he would be an utterly terrifying killing machine on the battlefield!

 Chapter 97 The Death of Xiang Tingchun

    After two days of brutal siege battles,

    thebined efforts of the city''s soldiers and civilians managed to stubbornly hold the fort.

    Instead, it was the barbarians who suffered the loss of another two thousand troops and a Refining Organ General.

    Additionally, with countless siege weapons destroyed, they had no choice but to cease their drumbeats of war and dared not attack for several days.

    Surveying the overall situation,

    the barbarians now had only six thousand soldiers left, while Po Yang held six hundred troops and three thousandmoners willing to risk their lives.

    Thesemoners were just ordinary people.

    If it had been an open battle between two armies, they would certainly have been cannon fodder.

    But in a siege, all they needed to do was handle logistics, repair the city walls, or even serve as human shields¡ªif they could just slow the barbarians'' ascent, giving the soldiers time to react, it would be enough.

    The barbarians didn''t dareunch another assault for the time being.

    Of the six thousand they had left, half were cavalry.

    As long as the city walls stood, the cavalry was just for show.

    Next, barring any unforeseen incidents, holding out until Wang Zhi''s return would mean the siege of Po Yang could be broken easily.

    Chen Sansi could scarcely imagine it.

    Thergest credit for this victory actually belonged to themon people.

    "Open the granaries and distribute grains!"

    There was plenty of food in the military stores.

    After seeing the role the civilians yed, Xiang Tingchun grew fond of the idea of exchanging the cheapest lives for the greatest benefit and continued to forcibly conscript anyone who could hold a weapon, sending them all to the city walls.

    He was in high spirits and gathered the military officers of Households rank and above on the wall, pouring drinks for each: "My brothers, this time in lifting the siege of Po Yang, everyone has performed a great service. Once this battle is over, a hefty reward is assured, not to mention promotions and honors!"

    "Hehe, quite right!"

    Dressed in a red official robe, Ji Guangxian said, "If the Crown Prince hears that, on the frontier of our great Dasheng, there exists such a courageous group of warriors, he will surely treat us with favor! The main credit, of course, goes to Households Commander Xiang¡ªcongrattions!"

    "Hahaha, Magistrate Ji, though a civil servant, you have shared life and death with our city walls; that too is a great service," Xiang Tingchun said as he filled his cup too.

    Clearly, the standoff had dissolved whatever misgivings the two men had held.

    Atop the city wall.

    While the officialsughed and drank, congratting each other in advance on their promotions, the ragged civilians were either busily moving bodies back and forth, repairing walls, or sitting numbly on the ground, eating the hard-earned rice.

    The battle wasn''t even over, yet they were already popping the champagne?

    Chen Sansi had no mood to partake in such premature celebrations.

    After perfunctorily drinking a bowl of wine, he turned to help move the bodies.

    ...

    That night,

    for the first time since the battle began, Xiang Tingchun found a moment to return home and see his wife.

    He removed his heavy armor, hugged his young son, and said, "You don''t have to be afraid anymore, the fighting is almost over."

    "Really?"

    His wife, Madame Liu, said anxiously, "Why does my heart keep pounding non-stop? Won''t the barbarians send more men over?"

    "Do you think the barbarians can just mold their soldiers out of mud?"

    Xiang Tingchun snorted, "Ten thousand troops were already exceedingly strange. There''s absolutely no chance they can reinforce in the short term. Even if they forced an extra two thousand men, it would do no good unless they gave up the main battlefield in Liangzhou, which would result in immediate counterattack and can only be equated to seeking death."

    "I''m just a housewife; how can I understand these things?"

    Madame Liu patted her chest, "It''s good if the master says there''s nothing to worry about."

    "Hmm, once the battle is over, I''m likely to be transferred."

    Xiang Tingchun spoke slowly, "The credit I''ve earned this time might even be enough to get assigned directly to the prosperous Jiangnan Prefecture City."

    "That would be wonderful,"

    Madame Liu eximed joyfully, "We can finally leave this forsaken ce where we''ve been living in constant fear. Not to mention, our child doesn''t even have a decent private tutor here, how could he possibly seed in the imperial exams?"

    "Hmm,"

    Xiang Tingchun picked up his bowl and chopsticks, ready to have a meal before leaving.

    It was at this moment that a maid came in to report.

    "Master, Master Luo would like to see you."

    "What does he want?"

    While holding his still young son, Xiang Tingchun said without even looking up, "What''s the matter, they''re not attacking again, are they?"

    "Master, it''s about the Martial Arts Hall."

    Luo Dongquan spoke in a fluster, "That old fox Liang Shengzhi who was originally in charge of guarding the southern gate, took advantage of the moment when the barbarians were temporarily repelled to open the city gate and flee with his family. It seems he''s heading to Hengkang Prefecture."

    "Flee?!"

    Xiang Tingchun mmed down his chopsticks, "The old bastard, sick of living!"

    Once there''s one leader of desertion, there will be a second.

    Such a situation was absolutely not allowed to happen!

    Xiang Tingchun immediately donned his armour, grabbed his saber, mounted his warhorse, and rushed to the city gate with Luo Dongquan.

    "How many of them?!"

    "Only seven or eight people, with a cart full of gold, silver and jewels. They''re also pulling a carriage, so they shouldn''t have gotten far. I''ve already sent men to chase after them, maybe they''ve already been intercepted."

    "Good! Hang their dog heads on the city wall. Let''s see who else dares to run!"

    Xiang Tingchun''s killing intent surged.

    The situation had escted to this point, there was no need to consider any background or status. Deserting in the face of the enemy, even Ji Guangxian would support his actions.

    The two of them, one after the other, chased wildly for five miles after opening the city gate.

    Sure enough, a carriage was seen ahead.

    "Liang Shengzhi! Deserting in battle is a capital offense!"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    Xiang Tingchun quickly overtook the carriage and blocked the road ahead.

    "Mr. Xiang."

    Liang Shengzhi lifted the carriage curtain and coldly said, "Privately hoarding the Immortal Treasure is the real capital offense!"

    "What did you say?!"

    Xiang Tingchun''s expression turned stern.

    The sound of horse hooves arose from all around.

    Three riders emerged from the darkness, blocking the way back.

    "Magistrate Xue?"

    Xiang Tingchun narrowed his eyes, "What is this supposed to mean?"

    "Xiang Tingchun!"

    Xue Yuping called out in a cold voice, "Hand over the Immortal Treasure, and you may keep your corpse intact!"

    "The Immortal Treasure?!"

    Xiang Tingchun took a deep breath, looking towards the carriage, "Liang Shengzhi, have you gone mad, seeking mutual destruction with me?"

    Liang Shengzhi shouted, "Cut the crap! Even if you used the Immortal Treasure to ckmail us, killing my son and monopolizing the secret of the Immortal Treasure, I will not share the sky with you!"

    "Your son?"

    Xiang Tingchun didn''t bother to exin, but instead said with a bitter smile, "I say the Immortal Treasure is not in my hands. Do you believe me, Magistrate Xue?"

    "What do you think?"

    Xue Yuping looked towards Han Cheng and Tang Ming by his side, "Since Mr. Xiang refuses to save face, let''s ''help'' him save face."

    Xiang Tingchun slowly drew out his He Miao Long Sword.

    "Households Commander Xiang!"

    Luo Dongquan urgently said, "It might be better to just hand over the item. They are sent by the court. Even if we kill them, we probably can''t keep the Immortal Treasure a secret anymore! Hand it over, our families might still have a way to survive."

    "Hahahahaha..."

    Xiang Tingchun let out a strangeugh, "Luo Dongquan, I would have never expected, after twenty years of nurturing you, it''s you who sold me out in the end."

    "Mr. Xiang?"

    Luo Dongquan responded in confusion, "What do you mean by that?"

    "That''s enough, Old Luo."

    Xiang Tingchun''s voice turned icy as he ran the He Miao Long Sword slowly over his wrist guard, "Stop pretending. Take action."

    Before leaving the city, Luo Dongquan had said he had already sent people to intercept.

    Where are they?

    Not a single soldier in sight.

    What does this imply, if it still needs to be said?

    "Nurturing?"

    Luo Dongquan no longer disguised his intentions and said with a forced smile, "Mr. Xiang, you once asked me a question, after the start of spring, how many of us would still be alive? That includes me, doesn''t it?

    "In Mr. Xiang''s eyes, everyone is just a stepping stone for you to climb higher, even I''m no exception.

    "Given that, why maintain any pretense of kindness or justice!"

    "Take action!"

 Chapter 98 Mastery of Commanding Soldiers and Skills

    The next day.

    The Xi River tribe outside the city didn''t attack again.

    Instead, they dispersed their troops and set up camps in the four directions¡ªeast, west, south, and north¡ªaround Po Yang County, forming a siege.

    If the city could not be taken by storm, a siege would also be useless.

    To encircle an enemy must be done with a gap, leaving them a survival path, forcing them to abandon the city and flee was a ssic tactic in siege warfare.

    The barbarians'' relentless pressure would only force the people within the city into a cornered beast''s fight.

    But at this critical moment, Po Yang City Commander Xiang Tingchun disappeared.

    "Mr. Chen, you...what do you think happened?!"

    Ji Guangxian paced back and forth with his hands behind his back, "Out of the blue, how could a grown man just vanish?"

    At his side, an old ve practicing the refining organs skill quietly waited.

    "I do not know."

    Chen Sansi spected in his heart.

    The Immortal Treasure matter must havee to light, most likely.

    Mr. Xiang, more likely than not, is in grave danger.

    However, someone like him, who never cared for others'' lives, doesn''t warrant any pity.

    "My lord, we''ve found out!"

    Dan Yuanzhi hurriedly ascended the city wall: "Last night at midnight, as the darkness fell, someone opened the south gate and fled. Xiang Tingchun rode out alone in pursuit, encountered an ambush by the barbarian tribes outside the city, and Mr. Xiang died in battle. Only Luo Qianhu and a few surviving riders managed to escape back shortly before now."

    Luo Dongquan?

    This man also took part and managed toe back alive?

    A backstabbing?

    Well, this person is not only treacherous but also a turncoat.

    Chen Sansi sneered in his heart.

    He clenched his iron fist, beginning to n how to dispose of them next.

    With Xiang Tingchun gone.

    Luo Dongquan would automatically rise to the position of Main General.

    How could he sleep at night if the man didn''t die?

    Mastered in archery and blessed with a Vajra Body, he might stand a chance in a real fight.

    And if by chance something were to go wrong...

    Chen Sansi lowered his head, looking at the Fire Arrows in the Arrow Bag at his waist.

    There was also the Abnormal Fire as a trump card.

    But, that move absolutely must not be used lightly.

    Especially not in the city, where there are too many prying eyes.

    Timing is everything.

    Chen Sansi momentarily suppressed his killing intent and went below the city wall to perform a routine headcount of his men.

    Two hundred eighty men.

    Wang Zhi was absent, having left all his subordinates in Chen''s charge before leaving.

    Furthermore, every time a Households died in battle, Xiang Tingchun would redistribute the soldiers evenly among the remaining Households, so Chen''s numbers only grew.

    They had been hardened by battle, with bloodshot eyes, each one as brave as tigers and wolves. Even if some had lower realms, not a single one was a coward.

    There was more.

    Over five hundred strong and able-bodied civilians also wanted to join the military.

    Knowing that whether the city fell or not, they would have to enter the battlefield, why not practice Martial Arts directly, receive some military provisions, and have a formal role?

    And not just that.

    This group of people also all wanted to follow Chen Sansi.

    "Gentlemen, as a Sixth Rank official, I really can''t take in so many of you."

    "My lord, we will be useful; we won''t just eat for free, please take us in!"

    The crowd shouted in unison, "With Mr. Chen, we feel secure!"

    "Indeed!"

    The civilians said, "Following Mr. Chen, at least there will be someone who remembers our names. Even if we die in the future, it won''t be in vain."

    With the enemy at the gates, it is not a time to strictly adhere to rules.

    Chen Sansimanded, "Wang Li, you are in charge of teaching them cultivation techniques. As long as their talent is good, provide enough medicine for their Blood Refining realm."

    "Yes!"

    Wang Li epted themand.

    Indeed, ever since the beginning of the siege.

    During downtime, they had started teaching civilians Pile Work, some of whom even barely qualified as Martial Artists. With not much time required, they could train a group of Array Soldiers.

    During peaceful times, a Households might hide this knowledge, not sharing the Breathing Skill without pay for at least two or three years of hardbor.

    But war changed everything.

    Chen Sansi continued, "Xu Wencai, Xu Bin, you must train the cavalry formation well, to be prepared for any emergency!"

    Recently.

    The original cavalry of the Households had to guard the city walls and suffered heavy casualties. The leaderless warhorses they left behind had all been taken by Chen Sansi for his men''s training, uniformly following the same Small Car Suspension Array used on the grasnd, with ten men in each team.

    The Small Car Suspension Array was the simplest and most basic version of the Big Car Suspension Formation.

    The true Big Car Suspension Formation could simultaneously control thousands of cavalry. Even when scaled down, at least two hundred men were required to form it up, an amount of men and horses they could just barely muster now.

    But any formation needs time for practice.

    Especially something asplicated as the Car Suspension Formation, which includes several types of troops such as spearmen, Sword Soldiers, and archers. It required not only flexible movement but also precise coordination among all participants.

    Given the dire current circumstances, naturally, the simpler the training of the formation, the better, to ensure its swift deployment.

    Having made arrangements, Xu Wencai immediately began to implement them.

    It wasn''t long before a panel appeared before Chen Sansi, who was on top of the wall.

    Due to frequent realbat, his proficiency in Commanding Soldiers had rapidly improved.

    Engrossed in breaking through his own realm and defending the city against enemies, he had nearly forgotten that his martial Skill in Commanding Soldiers was also on the verge of a breakthrough.

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (Proficient)]

    [Progress: 0/1000]

    [Utility: Mainstay, Training Soldiers Skillfully]

    [Training Soldiers Skillfully: Any military array can be quickly mastered.]

    Quick Mastery!

    To train an elite troop not only requires funds, provisions, and medicine but also extensive time and effort.

    Especially forrge orplex formations, if they are not practiced day and night, with every detail finely tuned, they can''t be used effectively inbat.

    But with the ability for Quick Mastery, the nature of training changespletely!

    "There''s no need to practice the small arrays anymore."

    Chen Sansi immediately went to the base of the city walls, which had been temporarily transformed into a Martial Arts Arena, "Switch to training the ''Big Car Suspension Formation.'' If there aren''t enough people, scale it down proportionally!"

    "The big formation?"

    Xu Wencai was slightly puzzled, "Are you sure, Mr. Chen?"

    "I''ll do it myself!"

    Chen Sansi mounted his White Swan Horse and took personalmand of the training.

    Under his direction,

    in just six days, the Car Suspension Formation was trained to operate smoothly, and in another five days or so, taking it to the battlefield would be no problem at all.

    From among the several hundred civilians, two hundred Array Soldiers and ten military soldiers were reselected. The rest who did not master the techniques still benefited from the training in terms of fitness, gaining the strength in their arms.

    As a result,

    the defensive force inside Po Yang City grew more robust amidst the barbarian siege. Facing six thousand barbarians, holding the city was entirely feasible.

    "Greetings, Mr. Chen!"

    Arriving at the space that served as a temporary Martial Arts Arena, hundreds of people shouted in unison.

    "Hmm."

    Chen Sansi nodded, looking over the neatly organized ranks, he felt what it meant to have "united wills as strong as fortified walls."

    Just then,

    his skill in Commanding Soldiers surged once more.

    [Sinking Formation Death Will: Having fought in bloody battles for more than a month, always leading the soldiers from the front and being the first to shed blood in every encounter, you have inspired your subordinates to the extent that they are all willing to follow you to the death.]

    Follow to the death?!

    Chen Sansi was involuntarily taken aback.

    As he looked again at the steadfast gaze of the hundreds before him, for a moment, he didn''t quite know how to describe his feelings.

    These people...

    were willing to follow him unto death?

    And the [Sinking Formation Death Will] entry clearly wasn''t just due to proficiency levels on his panel, but rather, it was the result of his own lead-by-example approach, coupled with the life-and-death experiences they shared over time.

    It was effective only with this group of people.

    That meant,

    from this moment on,

    Chen Sansi had his first batch of fiercely loyal subordinates.

    But in his heart, there wasn''t much excitement, more a sense of responsibility.

    These were all human lives.

    They were willing to die following him; therefore, as their General, eachmand he gave had to be the utmost within his abilities, in order to be worthy of the trust ced in him and to have a clear conscience.

    "Xu Wencai, continue to train them,"

    Afterying the groundwork, Chen Sansi continued to delegate themand to Xu Wencai. The Formation''s progress wasn''t dyed at all, proving that the old schr indeed had some skills.

    He approached Sun Li, "Senior Sister Sun, could I borrow your Red Lotus Saber Technique to study?"

    Now,

    he had reached Bone Forging Perfection, butcked a refining organs skill.

    Sun Buqi was still far from Refining Internal, not even knowing the follow-up content of his own Flying Snake Wind Gun Technique, let alone the Undying Golden Snake Spear.

    Trapped within the city, there was no telling when he would be able to leave and acquire a new technique.

    Better to practice the saber technique for now.

    It''s better than doing nothing.

    "Saber technique? I don''t have the technique with me, but I can teach you, however..."

    Sun Li didn''t refuse; she looked at the bow on Chen Sansi''s back, the spear in his hand, and the sword at his waist, teasingly asked, "Are you sure you can handle it all?"

    "Do I have anything else to practice?"

    Chen Sansi said helplessly.

    Sun Li reminisced, "There was a time when my father was like you, practicing all kinds of cultivation techniques every day."

    Chen Sansi asked, "Did Supervisor Sun ever mention what the use was in practicing different cultivation techniques?"

    "No."

    Sun Buqi took over, "Back then, my sister and I were very young. We just followed him around everywhere, saw a lot, so it left a deep impression."

    "If I remember correctly..."

    Sun Li pondered, "That period was just before father was imprisoned in the Imperial Prison."

    Before imprisonment in the Imperial Prison.

    That was also before the breakthrough to Martial Saint!

    Chen Sansi''s interest was piqued, "Did you guys ever ask himter what was the point of practicing so many techniques?"

    "We asked."

    Sun Buqi spread his hands, "He said he was bored."

    "¡­"

    Chen Sansi knew further inquiry was a waste of time, but he felt even more that there was a connection between reaching Above Martial Saint and cultivating various techniques; his enthusiasm thus increased. He immediately sought Sun Li''s instruction, memorizing all the Pile Work and moves, and then began practicing.

    Another exhrating quick training session followed.

    Five dayster.

    The saber technique also rapidly progressed to Bone Forging Perfection.

    His Qi-Blood was still slightly stronger.

    Other than that, if forced to say, it was getting to understand another type of weapon, which would allow him to handle enemies proficient in saber use more effortlessly in the future.

    It was on this day that Wang Zhi returned.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    He was covered in blood, of the eight people he led out, only two remained. Clearly, they had encountered small barbarian cavalry forces on their way back to the city.

    "How did it go?"

    At the city gate,

    everyone gathered around him.

    "The barbarians have circled around to Hengkang Prefecture and startedying siege,"

    Wang Zhi, looking much thinner, took arge gulp from the water bag handed to him, "But Commander Ma has still sent a thousand horsemen. I took a shortcut back; they will need another five days to arrive. In five days, the siege of Po Yang will be lifted!"

    Upon hearing this, everyone let out a sigh of relief.

    Five days.

    Chen Sansi looked out at the barbarians in all directions outside the city,

    feeling increasingly that something was amiss.

    Surrounded but not attacking.

    It felt like they were waiting for something.

    "Mr. Chen."

    Han Cheng approached, "County Magistrate Xue requests your presence."

 Chapter 99 Life and Death Decision

    Distinctly different from the chaos and ruin elsewhere in the city,

    the county magistrate''s residence was a haven of tranquility and harmony.

    In a side room, not only was a table full of food and drinks prepared, but two singers from Spring Pavilion had been invited, one to y music and the other to dance.

    Xue Yuping stood at the door waiting, "Mr. Chen, please!"

    "County Magistrate Xue does enjoy his leisure and elegance."

    Chen Sansi sat down, "Do you have any orders for me?"

    "Try the food first."

    Xue Yuping spoke slowly, "There''s no rush to discuss matters until Households Commander Tang returns."

    Deliberately, Chen Sansi used his filthy hands to grab food from every dish on the table.

    "..."

    Xue Yuping put down his chopsticks, his appetite gone.

    "Having been in the military for so long, I''ve grown increasingly unrefined. Surely you don''t mind, right?"

    Chen Sansi spoke with his mouth dripping with oil.

    Xue Yuping said calmly, "Of course not, Mr. Chen has worked hard defending the city. Please, help yourself."

    About half an hourter,

    Tang Ming rushed in, "County Magistrate Xue, the entire family of Xiang Tingchun, old and young alike, have been tortured to death and still the whereabouts of the Immortal Treasure remain unknown."

    "Mr. Xiang?"

    Chen Sansi feigned ignorance, "County Magistrate Xue, what is this about..."

    "No need to panic, Mr. Chen. We have discussed the matter of the Immortal Treasure before."

    Xue Yuping continued calmly, "The investigation concluded that Xiang Tingchun was secretly concealing the whereabouts of the Immortal Treasure. It''s a crime that traditionally results in the execution of the entire family, and he deserved more than death. Households Commander Tang, please continue."

    Households Commander?

    Is this person from the military?

    No, that''s not right.

    Chen Sansi thought of another organization that used such a title.

    Jinyi Guard.

    In the Jinyi Guard, could someone who has achieved Great Sess of Refining only hold the rank of a Hundred Households...

    Tang Ming frowned, "There''s also Golden Bell Temple; we''ve dug three feet into the ground and found nothing. It''s time for us to leave. The Witch God Sect will arrive in two days, and the city massacre and Blood Sacrifice will begin soon, not a single soul will be spared..."

    A city massacre and Blood Sacrifice?

    It seems there are not just immortals here, but demons as well!

    Chen Sansi finally understood why in recent days the Xi River tribe had surrounded but not attacked; they were waiting for the Witch God Sect, and possibly more armies wereing with them!

    "Sir."

    He spoke from the perspective of a military officer defending the city, saying what someone of his position should, "The Witch God Sect intends to ughter the city, is the court not sending reinforcements?"

    "Of course, the court wishes to send rescue."

    Xue Yuping said regretfully, "But the key to Yunzhou lies in the Three Prefectures of Stability, Tranquility, and Lingfeng. As long as these three do not fall, we can win back thend sooner orter. If necessary, even Hengkang Prefecture can be abandoned.

    "Mr. Chen, you should pack your belongings. Tonight at the hour of the rat, you will leave with us."

    "Leave?"

    Chen Sansi asked, "County Magistrate Xue, do you mean to abandon the city?"

    "No, no, no, no, no..."

    Xue Yuping said five consecutive "no"s, "They will continue to defend, Mr. Chen, you will depart silently with us, by yourself. What I mean is, just you alone."

    "Alone?"

    Chen Sansi asked gravely, "County Magistrate Xue, I still have my wife and subordinates in the city, how could I possibly leave alone?"

    "Mr. Chen."

    Xue Yuping said solemnly, "His Majesty has only ordered you to leave, not anyone else. As for your wife, surely you''ve heard the saying ''a wife is like clothing''?"

    "Is your mother like clothing?"

    Chen Sansi was furious, but he didn''t voice it.

    By this point, how could he not see that the court was nning to abandon the entirety of Po Yang!

    "Mr. Chen, I have spoken all there is to say."

    Xue Yuping continued, "At the hour of midnight tomorrow, we will leave this ce at full speed. If you insist on bringing a burden, then you may as well stay and continue defending the city. Remember, alone!

    "Households Han, please see our guest out."

    Stepping out of the residence,

    Chen Sansi''s thoughts were heavy, reying the conversation in his mind, grasping the key information.

    So, the court intends to only defend the Three Prefectures of Stability, Tranquility, and Lingfeng, and abandon the rest?

    From the map, these three form a strategic triangle.

    As long as the Three Prefectures hold, the foundation of Yunzhou remains, and once the Northwest Three States are free, they can retake the lost territory.

    But during this period,

    what about the rest of Yunzhou, including twelve other prefectures?

    Are they to be left for the barbarians to ughter and fulfill their so-called Blood Sacrifice?

    Moreover, how could they be so certain that the Northwest Three States will be avable and that those three will not be conquered?

    It seems,

    as if the barbarians and the court are in suspiciously perfect harmony?

    "..."

    A terrifying thought suddenly took root in Chen Sansi''s mind.

    He looked at Han Cheng who followed him out, "Guard Han, are you with Supervisor Sun?"

    Han Cheng affirmed.

    "Then I will ask you,"

    Chen Sansi continued, "What exactly are they nning?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

    "I don''t have full understanding either,"

    Han Cheng said, frowning, "I only know that this has been nned for a long time, and to avoid drawing Supervisor Sun''s attention, they deliberately did not send high-level martial artists to Po Yang, including the Emperor. For the search of the Immortal Treasure, only two Jinyi Guard Hundred Households were brought with County Magistrate Xue for undercover investigation."

    "They are quite afraid of Supervisor Sun,"

    Chen Sansi nodded.

    This would exin why, for something as important as the Immortal Treasure, they dared not send real experts, but just enough military force that a county should have, presumably to prevent Supervisor Sun from intervening and ruining their ns.

    It seems now...

    they might have seeded.

    "Guard Han,"

    Chen Sansi inquired, "What actions are we to take, has Supervisor Sun said anything?"

    "He hasn''t,"

    Han Cheng gently shook his head, "My connection with the Governor Mansion is dyed, thest time was when you made contributions on the grasnd. ording to the Supervisor''s original words, you should just ensure your own safety, everything else is none of your concern."

    "Ensure my own safety?"

    Chen Sansi paused, "You mean, you want me to obediently follow orders and leave alone? Have you ever thought about Sun Li and Sun Buqi who are also in this city? If what Magistrate Xue said just now is true, wouldn''t they also die here?"

    "The Supervisor didn''t instruct on that matter."

    Han Cheng scratched his head, starting to stutter, "I... I don''t know what to do, in any case, if you want to live then just do as told."

    "To live..."

    Chen Sansi fully understood the purpose of the poisoned wine.

    If he obediently followed orders and left alone, even if he was involved in a secret mission, he mightter have the opportunity to be nurtured as a trusted confidante.

    Otherwise, there were only two oues.

    One, die under the so-called "Blood Sacrifice" of the barbarians.

    Two, die from the poison three monthster.

    No, there was no need for that long.

    Having learned so many secrets, if he didn''t obediently follow through tomorrow night, he was ny percent sure he would be executed on the spot!

    The poisoned wine was just thest resort!

    "Kill!"

    Chen Sansi offered a straightforward suggestion, "Can''t we just kill them?!"

    Han Cheng still shook his head, "Tang Ming has reached Great Sess of Refining Internal, and I ampletely no match for him. And Magistrate Xue also has another Refining Internal under hismand."

    "You''re referring to Luo Dongquan, aren''t you?"

    Chen Sansi guessed, "I can handle him, but are you really unable to defeat Tang Ming?"

    "He''s capable of fighting two of me," Han Cheng held up his fingers, "Don''t look at me like that, the selection of people for this mission was extremely harsh. It''s already good that someone could mix in, let alone being picky about higher realms."

    So it was indeed a dead end.

    Not to mention not being able to beat them.

    Even if he could win, if he killed the magistrate, the Emperor would definitely find a way to kill him afterwards.

    Could Supervisor Sun really protect him then?

    Chen Sansi didn''t want to entrust his fate into someone else''s hands.

    Unless there was another force that took action to kill the magistrate.

    In that case, he couldpletely extricate himself.

    He could take people away and not be resented by the Emperor.

    "If you can''t bear to leave your wife behind, I can say a few words for you," Han Cheng said, "As long as you can assure Magistrate Xue you won''t drag your feet, he might agree to let you take her away.

    "All right.

    "I can''t stay with you for too long or they will be suspicious. If you have anything else to say, meet me in the horse stable on the east side of the city wall after midnight tonight."

    With those words, he disappeared.

    Chen Sansi, with a heavy heart, returned to his post on the city wall.

    Tonight during thest watch.

    He had to make a decision on his future in such a short time.

    "Sir!"

    Xu Wencai cheerfully came over, "I''ve considered over a dozen strategies to deal with the different changes in Po Yang, would you like to take a look?"

    "Sir!"

    "Good day, Sir!"

    "Sir, this is an amulet my mother asked me to give you, she said as long as you''re here, we have a way to live!"

    "..."

    Upon arriving at the city wall.

    One soldier after another began to speak, their tones full of respect.

    "Sir!"

    Xu Bin held a piece of paper, "This is a name that Xu Wencai came up with for my daughter, which one do you think is good?"

    "Little Junior Brother."

    Sun Li came over with a long saber, "How is your saber techniqueing along, if you need my help, just say the word."

    "Sansi, when you''re free, teach me archery!"

    Sun Buqi said with a yful smile, "Once I learn it, I can go home and let my old man say ''One should always take a fresh look at others, even if only three days have passed,'' and save him the trouble of scolding me for being useless!"

    Countless words drilled into his mind.

    Chen Sansi ignored them all as he walked past them, approaching the refugees squatting at the foot of the city wall.

    They had been working hard to defend the city.

    Even Shunzi''sme father was straining himself to move rocks.

    Last of all were the new recruits from the Martial Arts Arena, who had joined the ranks not long ago after a fierce battle and were still sparring with each other.

    "We''ve seen the Sir!"

    As Chen Sansi scanned them, names corresponding to the faces began to emerge one after another.

    [Sinking Formation Death Will]

    Even these people were willing to follow him to death!

    So, even if Magistrate Xue agreed to let him take Sister Lan away, was he really going to just run away like that?

    Maybe!

    After leaving, perhaps he would be reused by the old Emperor, climbing ranks and amassing wealth, reaching the pinnacle of life.

    The downside might be having restless sleep for thetter half of his life, often dreaming of some familiar faces.

    Sometimes having too good a memory really isn''t a good thing!

    "I hate insomnia."

    "Haven''t I been studying martial arts all this time just to sleep peacefully!"

    Chen Sansi''s left hand unconsciously gripped the Zhenyue Sword tightly, "If I go now, I really won''t be able to sleep!!!"

    And even if he really defected to the Dog Emperor, would he be safe?

    If the Emperor gave him poison wine once, wouldn''t he possibly do it a second time?

    Was he supposed to spend his life cowering and living miserably under others?!

    Must they force me into this?!

    But what else could he do?

    He was too weak, at best he could deal with Luo Dongquan. But there was also another at the Great Sess of Refining; who would kill him?

    And if they were killed, how would he clear the connections without the old Emperor holding him ountable afterward?

    "Hm?"

    Chen Sansi''s gaze fell on the crimson official robe, and an idea suddenly struck him.

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

 Chapter 100 Bone Training Kill Refining Internal

    "Xu Wencai!"

    Chen Sansi grabbed the old schr tightly, "I have a mission concerning the lives of everyone in the city that I entrust to you. Can you handle it?"

    "I?"

    Xu Wencai was startled but quickly nodded, "Rest assured, sir, I, Wo Long, can handle it!"

    "Good!"

    Chen Sansi whispered in his ear.

    "Sir!"

    Xu Wencai, with tears brimming in his eyes, said: "I will not fail the trust ced in me, even at the risk of my life, I will not let any mistakes ur!"

    Secrets not closely held are easily revealed.

    Chen Sansi did not tell a second person and, taking advantage of the heavy night, hurried to meet Han Cheng at the horse grounds east of the city before midnight.

    ...

    The Hour of the Ox.

    The small south gate of the city wall silently opened.

    Three riders came and waited on a forest path outside the city.

    The barbarian siege was not directly under the city walls but was set up in the open terrain. Due to limited numbers, it was not possible topletely seal off the area; there were still a few paths that a handful of people could use to break through and escape.

    Not to mention, among the three people, there were two Refining Organ Martial Artists.

    "How much longer until the Hour of the Ox?"

    Magistrate Xue sat on horseback.

    Tang Ming answered, "Half an incense stick''s time."

    "Ah, every one of you has such righteousness and loyalty,"

    Xue Yuping said with a sneer: "One wants to bring his wife, another wants to bring his nephew. With such burdens, how can you achieve anything great?

    "Mr. Chen can be spared, as he has been ennobled and rewarded by Imperial Decree! But what is Luo Dongquan?"

    Initially.

    Liang Shengzhi had taken the initiative to inform.

    Afterward, Xue Yuping sent people to covertly find Luo Dongquan, andmanded him to lure Xiang Tingchun out of the city with the promise of sparing his life in return.

    As for the Liang Family...

    Everyone, top to bottom, had been silenced.

    The rest of the martial arts halls involved in this matter had not yet been dealt with.

    But in two days'' time, the barbarians would divert thirty thousand troops from the main battlefield in Liangzhou, on top of which, experts from the Witch God Sect would secretly arrive; by then, not a single soul in Po Yang County would be spared.

    "Households Han!"

    Xue Yuping coldlymanded, "Once we''re safe, dispose of that Luo as well. What a pity, we still haven''t found the Immortal Treasure, otherwise, within three to five years, I could have joined the Cab! This time, Elder Yan will be disappointed!"

    "Good, it really was Yan Liang''s doing!"

    In the darkness, a harsh voice rang out.

    Another three riders appeared silently.

    The person leading wore a crimson official robe, nked by one person on each side.

    It was naturally Dan Yuanzhi and the old servant of the Ji Family.

    They both wore armour and held weapons in hand.

    "Ji Guangxian?!"

    Xue Yuping was surprised and said through clenched teeth: "What are you doing here?!"

    "I''vee to settle ounts with you!"

    Ji Guangxian, pointing at his nose with trembling voice, said, "The city is under siege, yet you dare to kill Households Commander Xiang, damaging our main general''s family! This is tantamount to treason and colluding with the enemy, it''s outrageous!"

    "Don''t spout lies!"

    Xue Yuping retorted, "Xiang Tingchun himself went out of the city and was ambushed; what does that have to do with us!"

    "Bullshit!"

    Ji Guangxian angrily said, "I''ve just been there and seen that the entire family of eight from Households Commander Xiang, including a five-year-old child, died at home. What, have the barbarians infiltrated the city and specifically targeted to kill only the main generals'' families? Your Yan Party really has no conscience!"

    "Do you think you are any better?!"

    Xue Yuping no longer pretended and cursed, "Pretending to be pure, but what really are you? Aren''t you just trying to grasp power and control the government!"

    "Enough nonsense!"

    Ji Guangxian said, "Today the evidence is irrefutable. Taking you down marks the downfall of the traitorous official Yan Liang!"

    "You dare!"

    Xue Yuping, fearing nothing, cupped his hands toward the direction of the Capital City, "Xiang Tingchun hoarded the Immortal Treasure, a crime deserving of death. What fault is there of ours?!"

    "Immortal Treasure?!"

    Ji Guangxian narrowed his eyes, "Does that mean, Magistrate Xue has already obtained the Immortal Treasure?"

    "Not yet!"

    "Bullshit! What exactly does your Yan Party want to do?"

    Ji Guangxian shouted loudly, "Theyout of the battle is so peculiar, I knew there was a problem! The Great Wall of An Ding Prefecture, how could it possibly be breached so easily! Is it your Yan Party''s doing, are you trying to copse the Great Sheng Dynasty?!"

    Xue Yuping, losing patience, said, "Let''s do this! Take them all down."

    "You have two Refining Organ Martial Artists, so do I!"

    Ji Guangxian pulled back on his horse as two bodyguards stepped forward to engage.

    Two?

    Xue Yuping chuckled coldly, looking toward the direction of the city walls.

    Let alone the fact that no one present was a match for Tang Ming with Great Sess of Refining.

    He also had another one rushing over soon.

    ...

    "Onward!"

    Luo Dongquan spurred his horse frantically, with Song Yan closely following behind.

    "Uncle, where are we going?"

    "To escape!"

    Luo Dongquan sighed deeply and muttered, "Xiang Tingchun was a fool! He was bewitched at the beginning, insisting on coborating with the martial arts halls and concealing the matter of the Immortal Treasure. Now he has dragged me into this mess too! Take good care of the Jade Pendant I gave you, from here we part ways."

    Song Yan asked in confusion, "Uncle? Am I not going with you?"

    "No, I''ve changed my mind."

    Luo Dongquan said, "I find this matter very strange. They''re sneaking around as if they''re hiding something major. The remaining two are Jinyi Guards; I, an outsider, am likely to be silenced if I get involved.

    "After leaving the city, I''ll follow them and say that I''ve given up on you. Head west overnight to distant rtives in Linjiang. If you don''t receive a letter from me within six months, assume I''m dead. From then on, change your name and don''t think about avenging me!"

    "Uncle, let me go with you..."

    "Scram!"

    Luo Dongquan drove the other person away.

    After leaving the city, he was about to head to the agreed location when suddenly, the sound of something sharp piercing the air rang beside his ear.

    The reaction speed of a Refining Organ Martial Artist made him instantly alert, and he leaped straight up from the back of his horse.@@novelbin@@

    "Hiss¡ª"

    An Armor-piercing Arrow struck the battle-horse, which tumbled and fell to the ground.

    Luo Dongquan was about to see who hadunched the sneak attack when the sound of arrows rang out beside his ear again.

    Not just one...

    But a volley!

    Luo Dongquan swung his battle saber, creating afterimages as he chopped down the relentless arrows.

    Who the hell can draw a bow so fast?

    Anyone unaware would think they had encountered an entire squad of crossbowmen!

    "Is it you?!"

    Following the direction of the iing arrows, he saw a figure hidden in a tree afar.

    "Good, I''ll kill you!"

    Luo Dongquan''s eyes were bloodshot as he cut through the arrows, swiftly closing in, until everything seemed to blur before him, feeling as if arrows filled the sky.

    He roared furiously, bursting forward with astonishing speed almost bing a blur. In the blink of an eye, he covered dozens of yards. Just when he was about to get close, a chill struck his thigh, and he almost lost his bnce and fell. He had to burst forward a second time to regain his stability.

    "Bang bang bang¡ª"

    In that brief pause, three more arrows struck him.

    Luckily, his saber blocks spared him from fatal wounds.

    Two arrows passed through his shoulder leaving behind translucent holes, and another arrow was lodged in his arm.

    At the cost of severe injuries, he finally closed the distance. His He Miao Long Sword shed furiously, aiming straight for his opponent''s face.

    "ng!"

    A long spear collided with the saber de, sparking a dazzling fire in the darkness.

    Both retreated several steps, widening the gap between them.

    Before Luo Dongquan could steady himself, the sound of the bowstring, like a nightmare, attacked once more.

    He had to swing his saber again to block.

    This terrifying rate of arrow release made it difficult for him as a Refining Organ Martial Artist to get close!

    In the world, could there actually be a special cultivation technique for archery?!

    In an instant, he could release three arrows with a fifteen-stone bow, each arrow precisely devilish¡ªwhat a concept!

    Under such archery, the cost of forcing proximity was exposing ws and bing pierced by a multitude of arrows!

    "I''ll see how many arrows you have!"

    Luo Dongquan dared not charge blindly anymore, swinging his He Miao Long Sword, hoping to wait until the opponent ran out of arrows.

    However...

    By the time blood from his wounds soaked through his clothes, the rain of arrows had not ceased. The shovel-shaped arrowheads inside his body, due to the intense movements, nearly shredded his arm muscles. Even with a martial artist''s robust physique, his speed was bound to slow down.

    Once slowed, he lost the advantage of amon Refining Organ Martial Artist. More arrows lodged in his body until he could no longer hold himself up and crashed to the ground.

    ''Damn, emptied three Arrow Bags!

    Chen Sansi had brought out five Arrow Bags and used up a whole three.

    Luckily.

    Luo Dongquan nowy on the ground looking like a porcupine, blood spilling from the corner of his mouth, only exhaling without inhaling, his life clearly ebbing away.

    Chen Sansi aimed at the head and heart, shooting two more arrows each, and after ensuring death, he went over and decapitated him with a sword.

    ''Had he not been so hasty, he could have held out against me for quite a while.''

    ''Of course, he would most likely still be worn down to death by me.''

    ''Sure enough, a Refining Organ Martial Artist!''

    ''Luckily, it''s not Refining Internal Organs Perfection; otherwise, he would have been really difficult to deal with.''

    It''s said that Refining Internal Organs Perfection martial artists can enter a berserk-like state in a short time, running their bodies into overdrive while temporarily forgetting pain, fully capable of taking arrow wounds head-on.

    "Li Dazhi, Xia Erniu."

    Chen Sansi, holding Luo Dongquan''s head: "This counts as avenging both you and myself."

    He had prepared thoroughly.

    The Vajra Body was not needed in the end.

    The final card, Immortal Treasure Strange Fire, was also ready for use.

    Of course, it was good not to use it, for every use carried the risk of exposure.

    "Uncle!"

    A few yards away, Song Yan, worried about Luo Dongquan, came back and witnessed the entire scene.

    Chen Sansi also heard him approaching.

    In fact.

    Song Yan wouldn''t have been able to escape even if he hadn''t returned.

    Mounting the White Swan Horse, it would''ve taken less than twenty minutes to catch up and kill him.

    When dealing with matters, one mustpletely uproot the problem.

    "Do you know what your uncle did?"

    "I know, he deserved to die!"

    Song Yan cried inconsbly: "But he was my uncle, and I still have to avenge him! Bring it on!"

    "Puchi!"

    Blood Refining Warrior.

    Nowhere near a match for Chen Sansi.

    The moment he rushed forward with his saber, his heart was pierced, and he fell into a pool of blood, breathless.

    "Great, now I look like the bad guy again!"

 Chapter 101 Abandoning the City

    This young man with the surname Song actually has a decent nature, it''s a pity he followed the wrong person.

    "I wonder how things are going on Han Cheng''s side."

    After disposing of the body, Chen Sansi, maintaining a "conceal and move without trace" state, rushed to their designated meeting ce.

    ...

    In the woods.

    Dan Yuanzhi and the old servant, both with limbs severed,y on the ground, using theirst breath to experience a lifetime''s sh before their eyes, then breathed theirst.

    "Han Cheng, you, you!"

    Tang Ming looked down, his expression a mix of anger and confusion as he stared at the de suddenly piercing his chest. "Traitor, go to hell¡ª"

    Even with a knife embedded in his heart, he did not die immediately. Instead, he burst forth with a terrifying brutal force, repelled his opponent with a palm strike to the chest, then drew Xiu Chun''s de, which had been sheathed again, to fight once more.

    In the distance.

    Ji Guangxian and Xue Yuping sat on their horses, watching the scene with surprise.

    "Ji, is Han Cheng your man?"

    "Isn''t he yours?"

    Ji Guangxian frowned, "Could it be, the information was given to this officer by him?"

    Not long ago.

    Someone had slipped a secret letter into his residence.

    Now it seems, it must have been Han Cheng.

    "He''s not your man?"

    Xue Yuping quickly figured it out, "Then, he must be one of Sun Xiangzong''s people."

    "He''s involved too?"

    Ji Guangxian urged, "Xue, you better confess everything now. What exactly are you up to in Yunzhou?!"

    "Stop your nonsense, I''m here only for the Immortal Treasure; I know nothing of the other matters!"

    Xue Yuping said, moving to ride off first.

    "Go!"

    "Stop right there!"

    Ji Guangxian stood firmly in front, "Xue, hand over the Immortal Treasure, then exin everything from start to finish, and I might spare your life!"

    "Ji Guangxian, you count for nothing!"

    "Vulgar!"

    "Fine, a gentleman uses his fists, not his words. How about we have a go at each other?!"

    "Bring it on!"

    A red-robed official and a blue-robed official both dismounted, took off their official hats, removed their belts, and stripped down to their undershirts, rolling up their sleeves to wrestle and tussle.

    You punch me, I punch you.

    You grab my hair, I pull your beard.

    "Despicable!"

    "Crude!"

    "Idiot!"

    "Devious scoundrel!"

    Soon, the two Imperial Officers had beaten each other ck and blue.

    "Gentlemen, quite skilled you are."

    Chen Sansi suddenly appeared.

    "Mr. Chen?!"

    Xue Yuping was overjoyed, "You''ve arrived just in time! Quick, take action and y this demon, then follow me out of here, straight to the Capital City!"

    "Mr. Chen, kill him!"

    Ji Guangxian, having the upper hand and sitting atop Xue Yuping, firmly grasped his opponent''s hair, "Thene with me, Mr. Gao of the Cab will protect you!"

    "Zi!"

    Zhen Yue unsheathed.

    Ji Guangxian''s head hit the ground.

    "Good!"

    Xue Yuping hadn''t even caught his breath when he saw the gleaming de approaching him, "Mr. Chen, what are you doing, are you mad!"

    "Zi!"

    With a swing of the sword, a life was taken.

    They all deserved to die!

    All thinking of manipting him by whatever means.

    Chen Sansi sheathed his sword.

    "Tang Ming, too, is dead."

    After finishing the battle, Han Cheng, covered in blood and pale-faced, remarked, "Mr. Chen, what a brilliant strategy, what a move to ''borrow the knife to kill!'' If not for this, Xue Yuping would have noticed yourck of escape and surelymanded Tang Ming to turn back and kill you first."

    "Are you alright?"

    Chen Sansi noticed the other was injured.

    "I won''t die, but I probably don''t have much fighting strength left."

    Han Cheng coughed up a mouthful of fresh blood and said weakly, "After simply handling the bodies, leave them here; the barbarian spies will soon discover them. Later, when the Capital City investigates, they will deduce that the severe and high factions killed each other to death. As for me, I''ll also encounter trouble on my way back.

    "In any case, even if there are suspicions, they will only suspect me, and then the Governor Mansion.

    "Don''t worry, if you can truly save the youngdy and the young master, taking the me is nothing, the Governor Mansion has been ''a dead pig not fearing boiling water.''

    "Have you arranged whates next?

    "Leading thedy and young master through a small path?

    "The intelligence says, in two days, the barbarians will withdraw twenty thousand troops from the main battlefield to Po Yang, among which, there may very well be hidden high masters of the Witch God Sect.

    "So if we''re going, it''s best we leave tonight.

    "Take your wife along with the youngdy and young master, travel light, and breaking out from the small south gate should be no problem."

    "Households Han."

    Chen Sansi''s gaze was fixed on the direction of the city, "When did I ever say I would only take them?"

    Han Cheng, startled, "What do you mean, Mr. Chen?"

    "Everyone, let''s go!"

    Chen Sansi''s voice rang out firm, "Po Yang County city, as long as they are willing to exert effort in defending the city, be they soldiers or civilians, let''s all leave together!"

    "That''s impossible."

    Han Cheng was astonished, "Mr. Chen, with barbarians surrounding us on all sides, how could so many people possibly leave together?"

    "I have a way to make the Xi River tribe temporarily retreat, daring not to pursue us even half a step for two days, thereby buying two to three days'' time to retreat. Then we could receive the support of two thousand troops from Hengkang Prefecture, and survival might not be impossible."

    Chen Sansi knew, taking the civilians with them would be a burden.

    But those soldiers willing to follow him to the death, which one of them did not have families?!

    If they stayed behind, not one would survive.If they left, sure, many might die along the way, but even having one more person live is worth it.

    Again, that saying.\\

    Within the limits of his ability, he aimed to do what would leave him with no regrets.

    There was another equally important point.\\

    No matter the use of the Blood Sacrifice, whatever the Dog Emperor and the barbarians aimed to achieve.

    He just had to stir things up!

    ...

    "Time to pay up, time to pay up!"

    West of the city.

    In therge mansion of Zhao''s Martial Arts Academy in Zhao Family, nearly all the town''s gentry and lords were gathered, each dressed in fine silk, fat-bodied but with faces full of horror and unease, evidencing the recent troubled times.

    Wang Zhi stood at the highest point, his voice booming, "Time to pay up, only silver notes epted, no silver!"

    "Mr. Wang!"

    Master of Zhao''s Martial Arts Academy, Zhao Shanming, his face somewhat pale, said, "One thousand taels of silver per family, isn''t that too expensive?"

    "Exactly, Wang Zhi, you are taking advantage of a crisis!"

    A gentry who had been an official but had retired to his hometown used, "I know the superior officer of An Ding Prefecture''s Commanding Department. Be careful, I might just report you!"

    "Damn it, go ahead!"

    Wang Zhi cursed loudly, "An Ding Prefecture is still under siege, just try! A bunch of ingrates, too expensive? If it''s too expensive, then none of you leave!

    "If it weren''t for the good rtionships I maintained with you on normal days, would I still be thinking of you at such a critical time?!"

    "Last chance, pay a thousand taels of silver notes, and I''ll lead you to safety in Hengkang Prefecture, otherwise, just stay here!"

    "A thousand taels..."

    The crowd murmured among themselves, "It doesn''t limit the number of people per household, it''s actually a good deal."

    "Right, let''s go! We can''t stay in Po Yang anymore."

    "Mr. Wang, you better not be deceiving us!"

    ...

    "Rest assured!"

    Wang Zhi then smiled, "I, Wang Zhi, take money to get things done, always reliable!

    "As long as you pay, I guarantee you can leave Po Yang!

    "Hurry up, those who want to live, we depart from the West City Gate in two hours, don''t bete!"

    "We''ll pay the money!"

    A group of people started lining up to pay.

    Then, within the allotted time, they hastily packed their belongings and assembled their personnel.

    Inside Po Yang City.

    There were still two major Martial Arts Halls left, eight smaller ones, and several dozenrge families.

    In the end, a total of about two thousand people gathered!

    Among them, over twelve hundred were adult males, with more than three hundred who had martial training, and dozens were Blood Refining Warriors.

    But they had been defending the city for over a month.

    Aside from those initially forced into conscription, none of these people had been on the battlefield!

    "Pan Quan, what the hell are you dawdling for!"@@novelbin@@

    Wang Zhi urged him on.

    Pan Quan, Zhao Shanming, and others, not only brought their families, but also carts filled with gold, silver, and precious medicines, unwilling to abandon anything.

    For over a century, their families had passed down who knows how much wealth.

    "Alright, hurry up!"

    Wang Zhi ordered.

    With them were also Zhao Kang, Xiong Qiuan, and two hundred soldiers, who began distributing weapons to those who didn''t have any.

    Since the defense began, they had seized numerous weapons, enough in quantity.

    Liu, a gentleman now in his sixties, was handed a standard long sword, "Mr. Wang, what are you doing? We''re supposed to be escaping the city, why are you distributing weapons?"

    "It''s a breakout, what else?"

    Wang Zhi exined, "The city is surrounded on all sides. Although the defense on the west side of the city is weaker, we still need to break through. But don''t worry, I''ll take the lead; you just need to use the weapons to defend yourselves.

    "Let''s go, no more waiting!"

    "Humm¡ª"

    The West City Gate opened in the darkness of the night.

    Wang Zhi led the way at the front, with Zhao Kang and Xiong Qiuan on either side.

    About two hours out.

    Campsites came into view.

    Inside and outside the camp, the guard was rigorous, with squads of cavalry patrolling back and forth. Judging from the deployment of forces, there were at least two thousand troops; this was clearly not a weak spot but rather the main general''s camp.

    "Wang Zhi, are you sure this is right?"

    Zhao Shanming caught up and said nervously, "We should retreat and find another way out before they notice us!"

    "Wrong way?"

    Wang Zhi looked at him and smirked, "I''m heading straight for their main camp!"

    "What do you mean?"

    Before Zhao Shanming could figure it out, sudden, earth-shaking shouts erupted nearby.

    "Kill¡ª"

    "Kill¡ª"

    "Boom, boom, boom¡ª"

    Zhao Kang, Xiong Qiuan, and others, numbering over two hundred, started shouting without warning, not forgetting to raise their torches.

    "Kill!"

    "Directly charge the main camp, capture Wu Mu''er alive!"

    "What?"

    The lords, who thought they were breaking out to escape, were so shocked by the sudden change that they were at a loss.

    "Wang Zhi, what¡­ what exactly are you trying to do?!"

    Zhao Shanming''s words became incoherent.

    "What am I doing, didn''t you hear?"

    Wang Zhi shouted, "Charge the enemy camp, capture Wu Mu''er alive!"

    "If you want to die, go ahead by yourself!"

    Zhao Shanming turned and ran.

    "Run fast!"

    Over a thousand people turned around, ready to head back to the city.

    At that moment.

    Feng Yong, leading a squad of troops, rushed out and blocked their escape route, stabbing to death the one at the front, "Anyone who retreats another step dies!"

    "Enemy attack, enemy attack!"

    With suchmotion, how could the barbarian main camp fail to notice?

    They dispatched arge number of troops to form up and charge.

    "Zhao Shanming, Pan Quan!"

    Wang Zhi pointed with his Mo de at the rapidly approaching barbarian army, "You can''t run now, either fight with me, or wait to be chopped up by random swords!"

    Meanwhile.

    Atop the city walls.

    "The lord truly has a great strategy, even I have to admire it!"

    Xu Wen, holding a feather fan picked up from who knows where, waved his hand grandly, "Ignite it!"

 Chapter 102 Great Defeat of the Barbarian Army

    "Alright."

    Xu Bin followed the order.

    He lit the huge torches that had been prepared in advance on the city wall.

    A ze of fire shot up into the sky.

    Havingpleted the task, Xu Bin asked in confusion, "Old Xu, are you sure this was ordered by Mr. Chen?"

    "It certainly was ordered by him."

    Xu Wencai, holding a feather fan and speaking in a measured tone, said, "You must follow the instructions precisely, any mistakes, and you''ll face militaryw."

    "Putting on airs, where did you get that fan!"

    Zhu Tong snatched the fan away and demanded, "Speak¡ªwhat did Shanshi tell you?"

    Now, he was the only one in the entire army who still called him Shanshi, no matter how many times he was corrected, it had be a unique trait.

    "The schr from arge household left the city, I picked it up from the ground, give it back!"

    Xu Wencai reached out, but couldn''t grab it: "Old Zhu, do you want to face militaryw?!"

    "Hmph!"

    Zhu Tong eventually returned the fan, "Why did Shanshi give you so much power?!"

    "Mr. Xu."

    The cool voice of Sun Li arose, "Are you sure the feigned might of your younger brothers is effective? I still need to lead fifty cavalry out. There are at least six thousand barbarians outside, our manpower is barely sufficient for defense, isn''t it too risky to initiate an attack?"

    The day had passed strangely.

    First, Xiang Tingchun died inexplicably outside the city.

    Then, the Magistrate, and even Chen Sansi disappeared and hadn''t returned till now, giving everyone the impression that something significant was about to happen, yet they were all kept in the dark.

    Only Xu Wencai came forward, waving his junior brother''s banner, organizing tasks so methodically that he called out one name after another, as smoothly as if he had rehearsed it countless times in his mind, finally having the chance to execute them.

    "Miss Sun, I trust the official, and I ask you to trust him too."

    Xu Wencai was utterlyposed, "You just follow my instructions. With the official backing us, tonight will be the biggest and sole victorious battle since the start of the war in Po Yang.

    "The lives and properties of tens of thousands of citizens depend on this!"

    ...

    Barbarian Army Camp.

    Wu Mu''er, reading the secret letter handed to him, looked stern.

    The Deputy General asked, "Sir, has something unexpected happened?"

    "The Witch God Sect was attacked, many died, but no matter, there will still be Hua Jin experts joining the big army heading to Po Yang in about two or three days."

    Wu Mu''er put down the letter, "The fall of Po Yang City is imminent."

    "Sir, do you know what the Witch God Sect intends to do?"

    The Deputy General curiously asked, "I heard that wherever a city is breached, the Witch God Sect enters to collect the Heart Blood of the living, all so secretive. What use is Heart Blood?"

    "If it''s not your concern, don''t ask."

    Wu Mu''er spoke gravely, "Our mission is simply to take down Po Yang."

    Speaking of which.

    The willpower of the Sheng people is indeed terrifying.

    After fighting for over a month, the number of city defenders was actually increasing. They suffered heavy losses, and as a result, hesitated to continue the assault, being forced to wait for the arrival of reinforcements.

    What''sughable is.

    They had internal strife!

    Wu Mu''er looked at several bodies within the tent, his gaze mocking.

    These bodies, found not long ago by the city gate.

    From their identities, each was a Refining Organ Martial Artist.

    Moreover, with the news from spies that the Main General Xiang Tingchun had disappeared, it seems there might be no Refining Organ fighters left within Po Yang City.

    "Everyone says the Sheng people have severe internal conflicts, with parties within the court often fighting bitterly, I used to not believe it, but it seems now it might be even worse than described!"

    The Deputy General agreed, "Sir, you are right. I think the Sheng Dynasty is running out of its fate, we, the people of the Sky n, will own the fertile grounds of the Central ins sooner orter!"

    As the two talked.

    Noise erupted outside.

    "Report¡ª"

    A soldier burst into the tent, "The defenders in Po Yang City are attacking our camp!"

    "Attacking the camp? With so many Refining Organ fighters dead, what do they have left to attack with!"

    Wu Mu''er picked up his curved sword and hurried out of the tent. Looking towards the direction of the West City Gate and the chaotic scene, he quickly evaluated the reality, "This isn''t regr soldiers, just a mob from the city, where do they get the guts, tired of living are they!

    "Pass my order, move all the cavalry from the east here, crush them!"

    After themand was delivered, the cavalry quickly arrived.

    Wu Mu''er nned to join the battle himself, but at that moment, a fire started in the east, and shouts thundered through the air!

    "Report!"

    Another rider came, "Sir, it''s bad news! The reinforcements from Hengkang Prefecture have arrived!"

    "What?"

    Wu Mu''er frowned, "Are you sure you saw it clearly?"

    A few days ago, someone had broken through and headed towards Hengkang Prefecture.

    At that time, he guessed they were seeking reinforcements.

    But based on the distance, the forces from Hengkang Prefecture shouldn''t have arrived for another four days, nearly a step behind the Barbarian Army. How could they arrive so quickly? All cavalry?

    "I saw it clearly."

    The soldier said nervously, "Dust fills the sky, shouts shatter one''s lungs, and there are mountains full of military gs and torches, conservatively estimating, there were over two thousand!"

    "Hmm, it''s indeed possible for Hengkang Prefecture to dispatch this many troops¡­"

    Wu Mu''er told the Deputy General, "You stay here and keep order, don''t panic, I''ll personally check what''s going on!"

    In this situation, rity was crucial.

    Once the army''s morale is disturbed, copse is imminent.

    ...

    "Kill¡ª"

    "Kill¡ª"

    East of the City.

    Following Xu Wencai''smands, Sun Buqi and others stealthily exited the city in batches, gathering two hundred new recruits in the east. They used rags to disguise as military gs and lit torches all over the hills, and finally, they beat the war drums and shouted their war cries.

    He was puzzled, "This old schr, using Shanshi to pressure us, what''s the point in doing all these disys of might?!"

    "Since it''s the official''s order, we just need to follow it."

    While speaking, Wang Li energetically scattered ashes everywhere, shouting at the top of his lungs, "Kill, kill, kill¡ª"

    "They''reing, they''reing!"

    Sun Buqi, holding his long spear, said, "Somebody''sing, all cavalry, the one in the middle, seems like Wu Mu''er? What did Xu Wencai tell us to do next?!"

    "Run up the mountain, hide, and when the signal arrow sounds, set fires simultaneously, then attack again!"

    Wang Li grabbed his things and ran off.

    "Go!"

    Sun Buqi hurriedly followed.

    ...

    "What is this?!"

    Finally catching up, Wu Mu''er stopped his horse staring at the empty space before him, "Is this what you call the reinforcements from Hengkang Prefecture?"

    "Sir, it''s too dark, we couldn''t see clearly either."

    The soldier who had reported earlier, fearing punishment, suggested, "Shall we check the mountain?"@@novelbin@@

    "Cavalry go up the mountain? Does anyone with a brain say such a thing?!"

    Wu Mu''er thought for a moment, "Retreat! It''s most likely a bluff, not worth our attention!"

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    Just as they were about to head back to camp, a sudden arrow sound near Wu Mu''er made him shudder, and he shed his curved sword in the direction of the sound, sessfully cutting down one arrow, then a second, and a third...

    "Is that you?!"

    In the darkness in the distance, a familiar figure on a white horse appeared.

    Wu Mu''er could not fail to recognize him!

    Over a month ago,

    it was this young man who had captured the Ninth Prince right before him!

    If the war had not justmenced, when manpower was crucial, he would have probably been beheaded long ago.

    Even now, he might still face serious consequences after autumn.

    "Such quick arrows!"

    Wu Mu''er focused on defending against the relentless arrows and calmly ordered, "Surround him!"

    No matter how fast this person shot arrows, he was still just one man.

    By diverting the attention of the remaining men, he could quickly close in.

    "Senior Sister Sun!"

    Chen Sansi shouted loudly.

    Sun Li arrived in time and fifty riders formed ten small "Car Suspension Formations," charging into the barbarian cavalry, shing fiercely, trying their best to prevent them from surrounding Chen Sansi, each facing multiple enemies, with her alone confronting two Lianggu Hundred Households.

    Watching the target of her junior brother''s arrows, she finally figured out what this series of connected ns intended to do.

    Chen Sansi intended to lure Wu Mu''er from the heavily guarded Central Army Camp, to recreate the feat on the grasnd. However, it wasn''t to capture a useless prince this time, but to kill the Refining Organ General, thereby throwing the enemy into disarray.

    "Junior brother, be careful!"

    Sun Li was already surrounded by many cavalrymen, "I will buy you time!"

    Not only did she understand.

    Wu Mu''er understood as well.

    This youngster wanted to kill him, thest main general of the Xi River Tribe.

    By this means, to cause his army to copse.

    But as the main general, how could he not know his own importance?

    The reason he dared lead five hundred cavalry to inspect, was because all the known Refining Organ Martial Artists within Po Yang City had killed each other!

    And this youngster, merely a hundred households officer!

    If he truly had the capability to kill him, during the previous encounter on the grasnd, he wouldn''t have just left a fat man to face the de while going to find the Ninth Prince himself!

    "ng, ng, ng!"

    "The men at the West City Gate were sent by you as well, weren''t they?"

    Wu Mu''er sneered, as he blocked the arrows while speaking, "I won''t chase after you. Your bow alone won''t kill me. I''ll just drag this out with you. In less than the time it takes to burn an incense stick, the rabble at the West City Gate will be crushed and wiped out!

    "And the pretty littledy leading over fifty cavalry behind me will be captured alive. Once her cultivation is crippled, she''ll make a fine ve for me!

    "Lastly, when you run out of arrows, I''ll kill you!"

    For now, the only threat to him was the big bow in this youngster''s hands.

    All he needed was to be cautious, and if he just dragged it out, he would win!

    ''Smarter than Luo Dongquan.''

    ''He knows to be wary of archery, not actively pursuing me.''

    ''If it were a one-on-one, dragging this out wouldn''t be a problem. But there are five hundred cavalry behind him.''

    ''Wang Zhi, Sun Li, they can''t hold on much longer.''

    ''So...''

    Chen Sansi unexpectedly tucked away his bow and grabbed his spear, "I didn''t n on dragging this out with you!"

    "You daree at me?"

    Wu Mu''er gripped his curved sword, "I want to see just what progress you''ve made in just over a month!"

    "ng¡ª"

    The two warhorses crossed paths, and the curved sword and long spear collided for the first time.

    Chen Sansi felt the trembling of the long spear, his qi-blood surged within him, stabilizing his form.

    On any other day, he could have dragged it out.

    But today, he had to kill quickly!

    He changed his usual fighting style, the Undying Golden Snake spear technique, forcibly conjuring the aura of the Breaking Formation Spear, attacking ferociously. Even though there was a difference in pure strengthpared to the Refining Organ, he still did not retreat to defend.

    But being anxious and attacking recklessly would expose ws.

    "Full of openings!"

    Wu Mu''er seized the moment, his curved de like a ck moon descending, tearing through the air, aiming directly at the opponent''s face.

    He had thought that, faced with such a deadly strike, the opponent would inevitably defend, but quite the contrary, there was no attempt to dodge, still determined to thrust his wed spear.

    ''Does this guy think his head is harder than my de?!''

    ''Die!''

    The curved sword neatly sliced through Chen Sansi''s iron helmet, striking squarely on the head.

    "Crack¡ª"

    However, the expected gore did not materialize. Instead, upon contact with flesh, the de emitted a sound as if scraping against metal, sparking faintly!

    "Vajra Body?"

    Wu Mu''er was shocked.

    After the incident with the Ninth Prince, he had investigated Chen Sansi. A genius youth with the Nine Dragon Body, Selected Officer of the Governor Mansion, where did the Vajra Bodye from!

    His blood velocity surged, and he forcibly retracted the curved sword, just in time blocking the long spear stabbing at him.

    "ng!"

    In the close encounter, another glint shed at the young man''s waist, a sword light tearing through the heavens, gone in a sh!

    "The Ninth Prince''s sword..."

    Wu Mu''er recognized the weapon, then felt the ground getting closer, even though his body was still on horseback. Before he could understand, the world plunged into darkness.

 Chapter 103 Grand Ancestor Chen Lei, the Hidden Dragon Emerges from the Abyss

    ```

    Grass...

    Chen Sansi''s iron helmet was chopped in half, his forehead throbbed with pain, leaving a trail of blood.

    Copper Skin Iron Bone.

    Whether it''s copper or iron, it can eventually be destroyed.

    If bone training can''t break through his skin.

    But after all, it is refining organs, a leap across a major realm.

    Fortunately, it was ultimately blocked.

    Chen Sansi wasn''t reckless. When he was killing Luo Dongquan earlier, he deliberately exchanged a blow to understand the immense power wielded by someone proficient in the refining organs skill, and he was confident that his Vajra Body could withstand it. Then he could take advantage of the surprise and deliver a deadly sh.

    Vajra Body, Swordsmanship Perfection.

    Lacking either one would not do!

    ...

    Sun Li, with her own strength, killed two bone training martial artists of the same realm. However, she was also sneak-attacked several times, and she found it difficult to divert attention to the situation dozens of steps away. She was about to face an assault from bone training generals as well as dozens of cavalry.

    If this continued, she would soon be weakened from loss of qi-blood and killed by the disorderly des.

    The fifty cavalry she brought were already reduced by half in such a short time...

    Just then, the sound of an armor-piercing arrow tore through the night sky, followed by a loud shout, "Wu Mu''er is dead! Reinforcements from Hengkang Prefecture have arrived, you barbarian thieves better surrender quickly!"

    Chen Sansi used his long spear to lift a head, showing it to them.

    "Lord Thousand Households is dead?!"

    The barbarian cavalry were all greatly shocked.

    "Kill, kill, kill¡ª"

    "Kill¡ª"

    After the signal of the armor-piercing arrow, those who had previously hidden on the mountain, like Sun Buqi and others, began to wave their torches again and screamed shrilly; the war drums were pounded so vigorously that they shook the earth, and in the shadows of the trees and woods, it was unclear how many people there were.

    "Reinforcements! Hengkang Prefecture really sent help!"

    "There''s an ambush, retreat quickly!"

    "Retreat, retreat!!"

    "..."

    The five hundred cavalry trembled with fear.

    "Where are you running¡ª"

    Chen Sansi, with a spear lifting a head in one hand and the Zhenyue Sword in the other, entered the crowd to kill.

    In this way, the barbarian cavalry were even more convinced of the ambush, and their desire to fight waspletely lost; they only cared for their lives.

    "It''s over!"

    Chen Sansi knew.@@novelbin@@

    Once this cavalry returned to their main camp, it would be their moment of copse!

    ...

    On top of the city walls.

    "Lazybones, get up! Wang Zhi and his men are about to bite the dust!"

    Zhu Tong was so anxious that he paced back and forth.

    "My lord, howe the lord hasn''t returned?"

    Xu Bin also began to grow agitated.

    "The lord must be fine!"

    Amidst the utter chaos, Xu Wencai turned out to be the calmest of all, gripping his feather fan tightly, "Just wait for one more teatime, after one teatime, the barbarian army of six thousand can be crushed at the snap of the fingers!"

    Finally.

    On Eastern Mountain, fire lit up for the second time.

    "Good, good, good! The barbarian army is broken!"

    Xu Wencai waved his feather fan without hesitation, "Liu Jinkui, Zhu Tong, Wu Da, Xu Bin, ry mymand, fling open the West City Gate and strike with all our might. The cavalry will form the Car Suspension Formation at the forefront, advancing, with everyone else following behind, just kill anyone you see, and remember, we must be loud and have plenty of torches!"

    "Xu Wencai."

    Liu Jinkui was half doubtful, "We''re putting our lives in your and Chen Baihu''s hands!"

    Yesterday evening, under the arrangement of Xu Wencai, Sun Li siblings and Wang Zhi suddenly began to take over themand of the army inside the city, iming that they were preparing for a breakout during the night.

    At first, they didn''t understand what was happening and they didn''t take orders from just anyone.

    But now, half of the people inside the city belonged to Chen Sansi''s faction, among them the Sun Li siblings had high status and were not to be offended lightly.

    What''s most crucial was that, overnight, Xiang Tingchun, Luo Dongquan, and others, all went missing without a trace of life or death, obviously indicating some major event was about to unfold, a matter of life-or-death, which they couldn''t ignore.

    As a result of this series of actions...

    It felt as if doom was imminent.

    "Go out of the city!"

    The city gates opened wide.

    The remaining fighting force inside the city poured out, with less than a thousand people, and took the offensive against a barbarian army of six thousand!

    ...

    West City Gate.

    Pan Quan had already died amidst the chaotic army.

    Zhao Shangming had been chopped to lose an arm, hanging on to life by a thread.

    The disciples from the Martial Arts Hall and local gentry were mostly dead, little remained.

    Wang Zhi and his men had fought until this point, also suffering severe casualties.

    "Is Xu Wencai deceiving me, is this really how Stony arranged it?!"

    He looked at the seemingly endless barbarians, "To hell with it, if all else fails, just die!"

    Fifteen years ago.

    He climbed the city walls and didn''t die.

    If he were to die on the battlefield today, it would be a fitting end!

    Read new chapters at empire

    "Good, in the next life, I''ll be a fellow traveler with you again!"

    Xiong Qiuan''s bones were exposed, and he too was preparing to embrace death.

    "Kill!"

    Behind them, the city gates flung open.

    The mes soared into the sky, and the sounds of killing roared like thunder!

    The barbarian soldiers were intimidated by the energy, but not yet disordered, for their numbers were many. They were just perplexed why Po Yang City was going crazy tonight, from where did they get such confidence; were they really courting death?

    Until the cavalry unit that had left earlier returned to report, exining their question.

    "Lord Wu Mu''er is dead!"

    "Three thousand Hengkang Prefecture cavalry havee to our aid!"

    "No, five thousand cavalry!"

    "..."

    "What?!"

    The deputy general stood dumbfounded but still clung to thest bit of rationality, "Don''t panic! Where did so many reinforcementse from!"

    "Wu Mu''er''s head is here¡ª"

    A white horse burst onto the battlefield and a familiar head was lifted high under the frosty moonlight, "Surrender quickly!"

    "My lord..."

    ```

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    An armor-piercing arrow flew swiftly, directly shooting the bone training martial artist of perfection off his horse, bing the final straw that crushed their psychological defenses.

    The news of both the main general and deputy general dying spread with inconceivable speed, growing more exaggerated with each retelling. By the end, it had be a story that the Eight Camps had won the main battlefield of Liangzhou, and Sun Xiangzong himself hade to encircle and kill them.

    At that moment.

    Six thousand barbarians.

    Their defeat was as swift as andslide!

    The soldiers from Po Yang County chased and ughtered them from behind, while the barbarians did not even fight back, casting away their armor and weapons, their lines breaking into aplete rout!

    It was not until this moment.

    Liu Jinkui, Xiong Qiuan, Zhao Kang, and others, watching Chen Sansi move unobstructed through the chaotic army, his lu leaf long spear holding the head of a refining organs general, looked upon him as if he was a deity!

    In a single night, Po Yang City went from being deeply encircled.

    To achieving a grand victory!

    Yearster, with the change of dynasties, this battle was recorded in history:

    In the seventy-second year of the Longqing era of the old dynasty, on the sixth day of the twelfth lunar month, the Grand Emperor Chen Lei, faced with desperation, cut down enemy generals and led over a thousand remnants to a great victory over six thousand barbarians. This battle is known in history as the Battle of Po Yang, also called, The Dragon Emerges from the Abyss.

    ...

    Only at daybreak did the six thousand barbarian soldiers, abandoning countless baggage and provisions, retreat beyond the Great Wall, not one daring to look back.

    Warfare hinges on coordinating the heavens, the earth, and the people!

    The number of soldiers alone cannot decide the oue one hundred percent of the time.

    If one can harness the "general trend" to their advantage, victory against arger force is not impossible!

    The barbarian army had besieged the city for a long time without sess. Moreover, from the beginning to the end, they lost a total of three refining organ generals, severely lowering their morale. When thest refining organ general fell, they were bound to crumble like sand.

    By contrast, Po Yang.

    After a long siege, aside from the local gentry and elites, the soldiers and civilians had an unprecedented fighting spirit, united as one.

    Among them, hundreds developed a "Sinking Formation Death Will."

    Given these increasing advantages and disadvantages, the gap was too vast.

    Additionally, there indeed was someone who knew that Hengkang Prefecture was very likely to send reinforcements soon.

    With the heavens, the earth, and the people aligned, how could the barbarian army not be defeated?

    However, just when everyone was excited about this miracle, Chen Sansi suddenly announced anothermand.

    Abandon the city!

    "Abandon the city?"

    "Why?"

    Questions arose among people like Zhao Kang: "Over half the barbarians died or were injured overnight, with hundreds trampled to death by their own. They''ve already retreated beyond the Great Wall, and they might even return to the grasnds. Inside Po Yang City, we have ample food and supplies; we should take this opportunity to strengthen our defenses and continue the siege!"

    "The barbarians have besieged us without attacking for a long time, what do you think they''re doing? They''re waiting for reinforcements! And the next time, there might be even higher realm generals!"

    Chen Sansi announced the harsh reality before the eyes of everyone: "On the other hand, the bodies of several dignitaries have been discovered in the barbarian camp, and we don''t even have a single person who has undergone refining of organs. How can we continue to defend?"

    "My lord is right!"

    Xu Wencai added: "Last night, we captured a close aid to the barbarians who was a Hundred Households, and he confessed that at least thirty thousand more troops will march towards Po Yang soon! The defeated barbarians will also quickly regroup ande back for another attack! The only n for now is to flee the city; that is the only way to live!"

    "But... what about us?"

    The numerous civilians responsible for repairing the city walls, hearing that the defenders nned to abandon the city, dropped their tools in despair.

    Abandon the city.

    That meant abandoning them, didn''t it?!

    This sort of thing wasn''t unheard of.

    The defenders flee, and the civilians are left behind to be ughtered.

    So what was the point of their desperate defense for this past month?

    Unexpectedly, the civilians did not riot.

    They dispersed and continued to pick up their tools to reinforce the fortifications, although their expressions were numb, their movements stiff, as if they were soulless zombies.

    Most of the soldiers, new recruits, andborers did the same.

    To abandon the city is to focus on a rapid escape.

    Those who couldn''t ride horses were likely to be left behind.

    Not to mention, most of their family members were still here; how could they bear to leave?

    Wives, children, fathers, mothers¡ªall left behind to await death?

    ...

    "Wait a moment, I haven''t finished speaking!"

    Chen Sansi gathered his qi-blood and spoke loudly, ensuring most of those present could hear him, "We will indeed abandon the city, but I never said we would abandon the people!

    "Pass my order!

    "The civilians within Po Yang City, all who wish to leave, may follow the army!

    "We, the military, will cover the rear!"

    Upon these words.

    Not only did the civilians.

    Even Xu Wencai and many subordinates were shocked.

    Escape with the civilians? And cover for them?

    In thousands of years, when had this ever happened?

    Aren''t they worried about being slowed down?

    "Of course, I''m not forcing anyone!"

    Chen Sansi continued: "We will depart from the West City Gate before noon today, heading westward, with a temporary destination of Hengkang Prefecture. Whether to go or stay ispletely voluntary! You must think carefully, if you leave, you may never be able to return, and it''s very possible to die on the road!"

    "My lord!"

    "We are willing to go!"

    "We will follow you in life and death!"

    After a brief silence, the civilians inside the city knelt down in unison.

    "Staying here is also to be ughtered by the barbarians!"

    The barbarians, known for their ruthless looting and ravaging, would definitely not leave any survivors.

    Therefore, escaping is the only way to live.

    "Thank you, my lord!"

    "My lord!"

    "Xu Wencai, you take care of the arrangements."

    After leaving these words, Chen Sansi went to the horse stable in the eastern part of the city to find the gravely injured and weak Han Cheng: "Has there been any word from the Governor Mansion?"

    "It will be a few more days."

    Han Cheng replied: "We should be receiving a message soon."

    "Good!"

    Chen Sansi recalled the words of Magistrate Xue, feeling that even going to Hengkang Prefecture might not be safe.

    He had said it.

    Hengkang Prefecture could be abandoned if necessary!

    But heading westward, leaving You State would take them to You State, one of the Northwest Three States.

    If You State were to fall, they would have no choice but to seek shelter in Liang State, where the Eight Camps and the Governor Mansion are located. There, they might receive more support and find theirst hope.

 Chapter 104 Unity Spear Technique

    The more they feared the Governor Mansion, the more they knew they had to head there to be safe.

    "Mr. Chen, today''s feat was truly once in a millennium."

    Households Han remarked, "Do you really n to lead the thousands next?"

    "I said what I said, I can''t go back on it now."

    Chen Sansi estimated, "The Xi River tribe just escaped the Great Wall. It will take at least a day for them to react and wait for the main army to arrive. By then, we would have been gone for three days and nights."

    "Not enough."

    Han Cheng shook his head, "The cavalry can cover hundreds of miles in a single day, but how far can a group of the old, weak, sick, and disabled travel? They will catch up soon enough."

    "That''s why I hope Mr. Han contacts the Governor Mansion as soon as possible, preferably to have some troops sent over."

    Chen Sansi even doubted whether the two thousand troops from Hengkang Prefecture could stille, and if so, how many?

    "I still suggest¡­"

    Han Cheng said somewhat uneasily, "That the young master and miss along with your family leave first."

    "Alright, I''ll ask Sun Li if she''s willing, they can leave quickly on horseback."

    Chen Sansi did not refute.

    "Good! Sir, I will take my leave now."

    Han Cheng, coughing, said, "Officially, I am already a dead man. If I''m seen with you somewhere andplications arise, I will signal you with the call of a cuckoo, and you can find me by following the sound."

    "Also, take this."

    While saying this, he pulled out a cultivation technique.

    "Refining Organ Spear Technique?!"

    Chen Sansi held the book, named "Unity Spear Technique": "Where did thise from, and can I practice it?"

    "Beforeing to Po Yang, the Supervisor sent this to me. It seems to be a fusion of three military spear techniques that he created. It wasn''t meant for you initially."

    Han Cheng looked in the direction of the city, "It was nned to be handed over to the young master when the time was right, but now it seems better to give it to you."

    "Sun Buqi?"

    Chen Sansi understood the deep meaning behind it.

    Supervisor Sun sending the Sun Li siblings here was not just an experience for them, but a preparation to temper Brother Bu Qi''s disposition and then to give him a superior method. Now it appeared...

    Until now, he had never seen Sun Buqi practice the spear, not even achieving a small achievement in Bone Training.

    He had practiced archery quite frequently, but without any progress.

    "Take the cultivation technique, and intensively practice refining organs."

    Han Cheng spoke exhaustedly, "From here on, you''ll have to manage on your own. Remember, when you hear the cuckoo calling,e and find me!"

    After finishing, he bowed with his fists and left.

    "I finally have something to train with."

    Chen Sansi was ustomed to daily martial arts practice; suddenly stopping it felt very unnatural.

    He returned to the city and in an abandoned civilian house, he found Sun Li and Sister Lan, whom he hadn''t seen for a long time.

    He stood outside the bedroom and didn''t enter.

    Sun Li was injured while buying him time, sustaining damage to her bones. Gu Xin was helping her apply medicine and bandage the wounds.

    Not until it was finished inside did he open the door.

    "Brother Shi!"

    Gu Xin threw herself into his arms.@@novelbin@@

    She checked him over here and there, finally noticing the scar on his forehead that nearly split his head in two!

    "It was just a scrape, I''m fine."

    Chen Sansi reassured her and then turned to thedy in red, "Senior Sister Sun, thanks to you blocking the cavalry, I at most could have handled a single refining organs expert. If not for you, Po Yang would have been in grave danger."

    "Junior brother sure knows how to tter. It was clearly your victory over the Barbarian Army, but you make it sound like I deserve the credit."

    Sun Li''s pale face, due to her injuries, became even whiter, "But you must be at Bone Forging Perfection by now, right? No wonder you''ve been practicing with both sabers and swords, it seems you''ve had nothing else to train."

    It hadn''t been long.

    Reflecting upon her arrival in Po Yang, he was only just starting Bone Training...

    Now, he had single-handedly in a refining organs expert and led them to rout the enemy army.

    His growth rate was undeniably astounding.

    "Senior Sister Sun."

    Chen Sansi asked, "Do you and Brother Bu Qi want to leave first?"

    "Leave first?"

    Sun Li leaned on the bedpost, tilting her head, "Junior brother, are you looking down on me?"

    "Why would you say that, Senior Sister?"

    Sun Li was slightly displeased, but her weak voice made her sound feeble, "You all stay to protect the civilians, yet you want me to leave first. Do you think it''s because I''m a woman or is it because I''m the daughter of the Supervisor that I''m more valuable?"

    "That''s not what I meant."

    Chen Sansi was just fulfilling Han Cheng''s request to ask her; he knew she wouldn''t leave early. But seeing her so injured, it seemed she really couldn''t stay to cover the rear.

    He pondered for a moment and then said, "Senior Sister, you are seriously injured. Staying would just slow us down."

    "Are you repulsed by me?!"

    Sun Li, angered, moved slightly but the pain from her wounds made hery back down.

    "Why would I, Senior Sister?"

    Chen Sansi exined, "How about this, you don''t need to leave early. Just walk with the civilians, that way you can help take care of Sister Lan and also protect the civilians to prevent any idents.

    "If you don''t agree, how can I rest assured letting Sister Lan walk alone in the chaos?

    "Not just Sister Lan, there''s also Mrs. Xu from the Xu family, and Zhu Tong''s mother, among many others. Surely there needs to be someone to look after them? I wouldn''t trust anyone else."

    A whole lot of talkingter.

    Finally, Sun Li agreed.

    "Thank you, Senior Sister Sun."

    Chen Sansi cupped his fists.

    "Brother Shi,e with me for a moment."

    Gu Xin pulled him outside and, after walking a considerable distance, cautiously asked, "Do you have any medicine that can remove scars?"

    "Remove scars?"

    "It''s not for me¡ªit''s for Li. She cried..."

    Gu Xin said with evident distress, "She suffered several deep cuts across her body; the wounds are so deep that you can see the bones. We don''tck medicine for healing, but she keeps shedding tears. I guess she didn''t bring any scar removal medicine. After all, as a woman, if her body is scarred, how will she cope in the future..."

    "I understand."

    Chen Sansi nodded, "I''ll give it to you before we leave."

    He was proficient in medical arts, not only skilled in concocting cultivation-enhancing medicine but also adept at treating all kinds of difficult diseases in the mortal world. Removing scars was a trivial matter for him, as ingredients with simr properties could be found in ck Jade Protective Ointment and Condensed Dew Body Refining Soup.

    Without wasting any time, Chen Sansi went to Yunhe Medicine Store and acquired a batch of medicinal materials for free. He then concocted the scar removal medicine on the spot, along with arge quantity of the Ji Family''s secret golden sore medicine and other emergency hemostatic drugs, distributing them to his subordinates.

    Lastly, there was the Tiger Blood Wine.

    Initially, Ji Guangxian had transported the wine from the Capital City as a reward, but they couldn''t carry it all due to too many burdens. Only six jars were hung on Qian Xun''s body, which was temporarily sufficient.

    In order not to waste it.

    Taking advantage of the remaining time, Chen Sansi gulped half a jar of wine and then started practicing the cultivation techniques he had memorized from "Photographic Memory."

    Unity Spear Technique!

    Flying Snake Wind, Python Breaking Formation, Undying Golden Snake.

    The pile work and techniques of the three spear methods were perfectly integrated, even the vast Breathing Skill had some minor variations.

    Theyplemented each other,bining strengths and defenses, wless andplete!

    Moreover, the name seemed casually chosen, sounding like some mild and steady spear technique, but in reality, Chen Sansi could vaguely sense a hint of "frenzy" from the text and diagrams.

    Instead of calling it "Unity Spear Technique," it might as well be called "Frenzy Blood Spear Technique."

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    Correspondingly, the difficulty of the practice also increased exponentially.

    Theplexity of the pile work and techniques was more than several times, ten times even.

    If it were an ordinary person, they would likely find it hard just to memorize it.

    No wonder it had to wait until Sun Buqi changed his temperament to give it to him; otherwise, it would be a waste.

    Refining internal organs, from entry-level to great sess, corresponds to Blood Movement, Quenching Internal Organs, Heart Burning, Blood Explosion.

    Blood Movement is different from Blood Refining.

    Blood Refining alters the blood, whereas Blood Movement involves further utilization of Qi-Blood.

    Only after attaining great sess in Refining Internal Organs can one advance to Hua Jin.

    Chen Sansi personally experienced why the word used is "refining" and not practicing, forcibly altering the speed of blood flow within the body to increase explosive power while tempering the internal organs in an excruciatingly painful process,parable to being refined by fire.

    The potent effects of the exotic Tiger Blood Winebined with theplex pile work spear technique made him feel as though he had jumped into a furnace. In an instant, he was drenched in sweat as his internal organs, blood vessels, bones, and meridians seemed to melt.

    Fortunately, with his blended physique, he was able to fluidly execute the technique by the end of the morning.

    [Cultivation Technique: Unity Spear Technique (Not Entered)]

    [Progress: 5/100]

    [Utility: Blood of the Dragon Elephant, Nine Dragon Living Veins, Vajra Body]

    ...

    "What spear technique is this? I''ve never seen it before!"

    Sun Buqi, who had been secretly watching for a while, widened his eyes, "I want to learn it too!"

    "Go ahead and learn."

    Chen Sansi had noticed him long before, and after all, this originally belonged to someone else.

    "Refining organs skill? Forget it, I won''t learn that!"

    Sun Buqi flipped through a few pages and then gave up, soon realizing something was amiss, "Where did thise from? Could it be that you created it yourself? No, wait, did my fathere?"

    "No."

    Chen Sansi didn''t continue the conversation with him but instead went to the West City Gate.

    "Sir."

    Liu Jinkui, Zhao Kang, and others, although technically of the same rank as him, involuntarily addressed him this way, not even realizing it themselves.

    "Among those who can handle weapons and are willing to stay behind to cover our retreat, there are fifteen hundred people, including twelve hundred Array Soldier Infantry and three hundred cavalry, capable of forming the Car Suspension Formation that you personally drill.

    "Besides, there are five hundred strong and young civilians.

    "A total of two thousand.

    "From the civilian side, a rough count shows over forty thousand are willing to apany us.

    "Additionally, fromst night''s battle, countless weapons, supplies, and nearly a thousand horses have been seized; should we take as many as we can?"

    "As much as possible, especially the horses."

    Chen Sansi instructed, "Drilling the battle formation is definitely out of the question, but it''s beneficial if they can all learn to ride horses. Pass my order, we leave in an hour."

    "Yes!"

    Everyone promptly acknowledged themand and departed.

    Outside the West City Gate, led by soldiers specifically responsible for guiding the way, an endless stream of civilians followed, entering the boundless expanse of the world.

    The most dangerous aspect of this journey was being pursued.

    Food was less of a concern.

    In Po Yang City and the Barbarian Army camps alone, the military rations were sufficient for a long time.

    Ironically enough.

    This winter, many who would have died of hunger or cold, on the day the city was abandoned, wore warm clothes and had full bellies.

    "Depart!"

    Chen Sansi, mounted on his horse,manded loudly.

    The two thousand covering the retreat moved forward.

    He took onest look at Po Yang County before kicking his horse''s sides to catch up with the troop.

 Chapter 105 Meridian Passage Realm

    Two dayster.

    Outside the Great Wall.

    The scattered barbarian soldiers finally regrouped, numbering around a thousand, but no one dared to approach the Great Wall again. They headed straight back to the grasnds dozens of miles away to station themselves. During this period, the two spies they had sent out also vanished without a trace, deterring anyone else from going.

    "Boom! Boom! Boom!"

    The sound of horse hooves shook the earth.

    It was on this day.

    Therge army forcibly transferred from the main battlefield in Liangzhou finally arrived, with more troops than reported¡ªforty thousand strong!

    "Damn it!"

    The Main General of the Meridian Passage Realm, Wu LiangHa,shed his whip onto a soldier: "You were supposed to be besieging the city. Why are you here?"

    The whip split the soldier''s body right in half!

    To those with good eyesight, it was clear.

    In fact, the whip hadn''t touched the barbarian''s body at all. Instead, an invisible force attached to the whip was what tore the soldier apart.

    "Mercy, my lord!"

    The barbarian soldiers knelt down one after another, recounting the events of two days prior.

    "Nonsense!"

    "Sun Xiangzong is still at the main Liangzhou battlefield. It would take at least half a month toe to You State! How could he possibly run to Po Yang and kill an insignificant Refining Organ General!"

    Wu LiangHa raged: "Army, march with me! Direct assault on Po Yang! I want to see who scared you like this!"

    When the army of forty thousand arrived beneath the city walls.

    What emerged before them was an empty city.

    Not only were there no defending troops, but even the civilians were gone!

    "Idiots, idiots!"

    Wu LiangHa was hopping mad: "Tens of thousands of people from a city, and you let them escape? If you''re not up for taking the city, can''t you even encircle it? Search the city!"

    The barbarian army flooded into the city.

    Wu LiangHa, on his own, went to an uninhabited ce and waited in silence.

    Before long.

    One after another, members of the Witch God Sect cloaked in ck robes arrived.

    Leading them was also a master of the Meridian Passage.

    In his hand, he held a long spike: "General Wu LiangHa, why have you given me an empty city?"

    "Wu Mu''er ispletely useless! One after another, the Refining Organ troops sent are no fewer than the Sheng Dynasty''s, yet they''re beaten down to just two thousand men!"

    Wu LiangHa suppressed his rage: "What''s next, should we give up on Po Yang?"

    "No!"

    The Witch God Sect leader Amugu, with a solemn expression: "We originally counted on the six hundred thousand from You State, and one county should have at least thirty thousand. If they escape, what if we can''t meet the numbers?"

    "Then we shall pursue."

    Wu LiangHa said firmly: "These city defenders are not thinking straight, dragging civilians with them, their pace must be extremely slow. Leading the army by the main road, the cavalry should catch up in a few days."

    "Send three thousand Light Cavalry to pursue. A few Refining Organ leaders will suffice. I''ll take another troop to Hengkang Prefecture first. There are more people there. After dealing with that, I''ll personally go after them."

    Amugu methodically arranged: "As for the rest, you lead them to hit An Ding Prefecture."

    Above Refining Organ is Hua Jin.

    Above Hua Jin is Meridian Passage!

    "An Ding Prefecture?"

    Wu LiangHa did not immediately reply: "Are you sure? Wasn''t it agreed that we would surround An Ding Prefecture but not attack, and immediately retreat after our main mission?"

    "This is the Sect Hierarch''smand."

    Amugu stated: "Hengkang Prefecture is about to fall. If we can also take An Ding Prefecture, even if we can''t upy You State, we''ll be able to demand more benefits."

    "Fine!"

    Wu LiangHa epted: "That is enough. The defenders in this city, the highest realm is merely at Refining Organ, and they might not even have that. Leave it to you."

    Orders were dispatched.

    The barbarian cavalry quickly followed the trail left by the abandoned city garrison and gave chase.

    ...

    "Phew¡ª"

    Having finally assimted the potency of the Tiger Blood Wine, Chen Sansi nted his long spear into the ground and slowly exhaled a breath of stale air.

    [Cultivation Technique: Unity Spear Technique (Not Yet Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 45/100]

    [Utility: Power of the Dragon Elephant, Nine Dragon Living Veins, Vajra Body]

    After starting the Refining Internal process, his efficiency in utilizing Spiritual Grain improved. Coupled with the valuable Tiger Blood Wine, his cultivation speed was not slow.

    It had been two and a half days since they left Po Yang.

    In another two days, he could almost enter the Refining Internal realm.

    By then, should he encounter Refining Organ Generals, unless they are at the Perfect Level, he would not have to face life-and-death situations as before.

    However.

    The barbarian pursuers were likely to catch up soon.

    "My lord!"

    Wang Li raced over on his horse: "Mr. Wang''s reinforcement troops havee to assist, numbering two thousand!"

    Chen Sansi picked up his spear and mounted his horse, riding Qian Xun to the fork in the road ahead.

    It had felt iplete to only call it Little Xun before. Since it could find its master from a thousand miles away, it was fittingly named Qian Xun, aplete name.

    Arriving at the designated location.

    He saw a troop with fairlymendable marching discipline.

    At the very front was a Refining Organ Deputy General on a red-maned horse, holding a long spear: "This must be Officer Chen, who led a thousand remnants to crush six thousand barbarian bandits. Truly a young hero; Du has nothing but admiration."

    Wang Zhi introduced: "This is Vice Thousand Households Du Rong, sent specially by Commander Ma to assist us."

    "Mr. Chen."

    Du Rong sat upright on his horse: "Hengkang Prefecture is in dire need. I implore you to make haste and return with me to assist."

    "We can''t go back directly. Xu Wencai, bring the map."@@novelbin@@

    Chen Sansi pointed with his spear at the map: "Vice Thousand Households Du, I must ask you to lead your troops through this minor road with me. Additionally, dispatch a small number of troops to take the major road back to Hengkang Prefecture to assess the situation. After confirming everything is in order, we can then cut back from the border of this mountain."

    "Why make such an unnecessary move? This back and forth will dy us by at least a day and a half,"

    "Mr. Chen, you can''t possibly suspect that Hengkang Prefecture has been taken in the past few days, can you?" Du Rong spected with a start.

    Chen Sansi tacitly agreed.

    "Impossible!"

    Du Rong asserted confidently, "Hengkang Prefecture is built against the mountains, easy to defend but hard to attack. Even facing arge army, it should hold for at least five months. How could it possibly fall in just a few days?"

    "I kindly ask Mr. Du to allow my suggestion!"

    Chen Sansi cupped his fists, "With tens of thousands of civilians ahead, I dare not gamble with their lives. This way is the safest."

    Easy to defend but hard to attack?

    Wasn''t Po Yang County just a small city that held out? But if there''s internal trouble, who could foresee it?

    The strongest fortresses are often breached from within.

    The words of Xue Yuping before had left him uneasy.

    Du Rong furrowed his brows in thought, half believing and half doubting, "If that''s true, then I can''t afford to waste time with you. I must rush back immediately!"

    "Mr. Du, caution is paramount."

    Chen Sansi gave his final piece of advice, "Let the army take the small path first. We should hear news within two days at most. There''s no harm in deciding then."

    "No way!"

    Du Rong had made up his mind, "Wang Zhi, I''ll leave those few kinsmen of yours behind to follow Mr. Chen''s route. The rest muste back to the Prefecture City with me immediately!"

    After speaking, he hastily led his troops back the way they came.

    The once mighty procession, after just a short time, was reduced to little more than two hundred people remained.

    "..."

    Chen Sansi sighed softly.

    He couldn''t persuade him, and there was nothing he could do.

    It was natural for someone to be anxious when their home was in danger.

    He too hoped that Hengkang Prefecture was alright. But if things had gone wrong, there was a nine out of ten chance that Du Rong wouldn''t being back.

    However, at least there were two hundred more people at his disposal.

    "Uncle Tang!"

    "We''ve seen General Tang!"

    "..."

    The three Bone Training Realm military officers leading the group saluted Fatty Wang.

    "All right, rise,"

    Wang Zhi stepped forward and helped each of them up.

    "You have so many kinsmen in Hengkang Prefecture?"

    Chen Sansi was somewhat curious, guessing, "Old acquaintances of yours?"

    "To answer Mr. Chen,"

    A young man spoke up before anyone else, "Our fathers were all generals in the ck Tortoise Camp. After the incident, General Tang settled us in Hengkang Prefecture, and all the resources for practising martial arts were provided by General Tang. Without General Tang, our cultivation would have been greatly diminished."

    "Don''t listen to their nonsense, I''m the one who owes them,"

    Wang Zhi admitted guiltily, "Back then, I rashly attacked the city without reporting it to the Heavenly Strategy Camp, which constituted unauthorized troop deployment, causing the total annihtion of our forces. Not only I, but also all the generals above the Bone Forger Realm, were removed from their positions to serve as a warning to others."

    Chen Sansi finally understood where all of Fatty Wang''s money had gone.

    "Report¡ª"

    Wu Da, responsible for scouting at the rear, came galloping in on his warhorse, "Sir, this is bad news. Fifty li away, we found three thousand elite barbarian cavalry!"

    "Wu Da, you and Zhuang Yi, along with a separate group of men, stay behind. Ten li after we leave, set the mountain on fire!"

    Chen Sansi ordered decisively.

    The sides of the small road were nked by forests.

    In the dry autumn and winter seasons, the forest caught fire easily, which could greatly slow down the cavalry.

    Boom¡ª

    A ze roared into the sky, the mes spreading quickly and soon joining together into a vast sea of fire. ck smoke billowed into the sky, turning a hundred li into scorched earth.

    The barbarian cavalry that hade in pursuit had no choice but to take a detour.

    "It''s only a temporary measure."

    Chen Sansi sighed. The road ahead was long and hindered, and he could only hope his worries were unfounded, and that after passing through this small road, they could find a way to Hengkang Prefecture to settle.

    Unfortunately, the bad news still came.

    "Hengkang Prefecture has fallen!"

    "..."

    One dayter.

    Of the two thousand Hengkang Prefecture soldiers they had just seen, only a dozen or so cavalry arrived at the rendezvous point.

    "Three days ago, the Vice Commander-in-chief of the vanguard of Hengkang Prefecturemitted treason. Heunched a surprise attack and killed Commander Ma, then opened the city gates wide. Now inside and out, Hengkang Prefecture is enduring a massacre by the barbarians!

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    "The brothers who escaped death are scattered and gone, their whereabouts unknown..."

    "..."

    Traitorous?

    "How could this happen?!"

    Wang Zhi yanked the man off his horse, "Commander Ma is dead?!"

    "Dead, his head is hanging over the city gates..."

    "Mr. Wang, Yunzhou is finished!"

    "..."

    A heavy weight sank in Chen Sansi''s heart.

    The fall of Hengkang Prefecture, with An Ding Prefecture and the other two closing their gates, meant that the rest of Yunzhou would be trampled under hoof. Tens if not hundreds of thousands of citizens'' lives were likely to be used for the so-called blood sacrifice!

    What was even more frightening was that their own situation was even less optimistic.

    You State was not far from their current location, but it would take at least half a month to reach. That time was definitely enough for the barbarian pursuers to catch up.

    "Cuckoo, cuckoo¡ª"

    Suddenly, the call of a cuckoo bird echoed in the nearby woods.

    Was there news from the Governor Mansion?

 Chapter 106 Lone Rider Blocking a Thousand Troops

    Chen Sansi immediately dismounted and squeezed into the forest from whence the sound originated.

    He happened to see Han Cheng releasing an Hai Dongqing behind a pile of disorderly stones, which seemed to have shed the appearance of an ordinary bird and could be considered an Exotic Beast.

    "Mr. Chen, the Supervisor has sent a letter, we have hope..."

    Leaning against a rock, Han Cheng said, "The Supervisor wrote that the main battlefield of the Northwest Three States is at a critical moment of determining the oue, and in the short term, it''s impossible to divert the elite of the Eight Camps or the garrison soldiers, but they have still managed to gather fifty thousand garrison soldiers, including Reserve Generals from the Selected Point of the Northwest Three States, all of whom are hastening to Yunzhou night and day."

    "Selected Point?"

    Chen Sansi took note of the emphasis, "You mean the kind I am?"

    "Yes."

    Han Cheng nodded, "The Selected Points begin in February after the spring hasmenced, but many arrive in Liangzhou early, it''s just that the selections officially start once everyone has assembled.

    "In about seven days, they should arrive at Huanwen County of Yunzhou on the Northwest Border. Using this county as a base, they will then dispatch troops ording to the real-time war situation to all parts of Yunzhou to lift the siege.

    "The distance between us and Huanwen County is not far; it will also take roughly seven days to get there.

    "But...

    "If we continue on this road, to reach Huanwen County, we''ll need to cross a river.

    "Hongze River is the biggest river in the entire North.

    "I don''t know how much time it will waste to get forty thousand civilians across the river.

    "Mr. Chen, my suggestion remains the same, forget those civilians and ordinary subordinates, just lead the cavalry and gallop ahead. Once you cross the river, you''ll be safe.

    "Moreover, gathering the Reserve Generals this time, it''s likely the Supervisor is using this battle as a test for everyone.

    "Realbat! It''s always been an important part of the Selected Point.

    "The Selected Point selects military officers; if a General cannotmand soldiers in battle, what use is a higher realm?

    "Participating in the battle in Yunzhou is definitely crucial.

    "So, Mr. Chen, it''s best that you hurry to Huanwen County as soon as possible. You''ll be assigned troops based on your realm and Cultivation when you arrive. If you miss it, it''s like missing a chance to make a good impression on the Supervisor.

    "Think carefully about it."

    "No need for more words, Mr. Han, at this point," Chen Sansi felt no regret.

    If he had fled and abandoned the city from the very start that would be simply cowardice, but to run halfway through¡ªhe really couldn''t sleep with such a choice.

    He wasn''t worried about the Selected Point.

    His Cultivation progress wasn''t slow, and with the Skill of Commanding Soldiers beside him, even if he didn''t start out ahead, he would definitely gradually emerge on the battlefield.

    Unless...

    The Governor Mansion was just like the garrisons, all show and no substance.

    But that probability was slim.

    If an army was truly rotten to the core, it absolutely wouldn''t have thebat power to terrify the world.

    Even if it were so, looking across the Great Sheng Dynasty, where else could he go?

    "Good!"

    Han Cheng didn''t urge further, "As long as Mr. Chen has thought it through. Also, please find an excuse to send the young master to the very front of the troop; don''t leave him at the back."

    "Mm, I understand," Chen Sansi replied, parting ways with him.

    Chen Sansi located his position on the map, nned a new route, and informed everyone that their destination had shifted from Hengkang Prefecture to Huanwen County, passing the orders to the front of the column.

    "Seven days!"

    "Even with the civilians, we can roughly make it!"

    It was far better than the half a month previously expected.

    Nevertheless, it would be impossible to avoid encountering pursuits next.

    Three thousand cavalrymen, as long as none of them had exceeded the stage of Refining Internal Organs, they could possibly tackle them.

    Swiftly advancing in Refining Internal herpgans, ascertain the true state of the enemy, and then make a decision.

    Chen Sansi made up his mind.

    For the next three days.

    He purposefully slowed down, trailing at the end of therge troop by himself, using the time saved to cultivate and then catch up to the troop at breakneck speed with Qian Xun''s divine haste, repeating this process in cycles.

    It must be said that the utility of the White Swan Horse was truly immense.

    Deep in the night.

    Chen Sansi drank thest jar of Tiger Blood Wine and crammed a small handful of Spiritual Grain into his mouth, starting to wield the long spear in his hands.

    Under the moonlight.

    His Phragmites spear stirred the chilly wind, possessing the stability of the Golden Snake, the swiftness of the Flying Snake, and the ferocity of the Breaking Formation Spear technique¡ªall integrated into one.

    White Snake Spits, Iron Bull Plowing, Swallows Snatching the Nest, Yellow Dragon Lying Road...

    One move after another, all blended into one, the long spear in his hands no longer resembled a snake, but rather a python, an untamed python, a python that would one day be a dragon!@@novelbin@@

    Empowered by the Unity Spear Technique.

    Chen Sansi''s blood seemed to lose control, wildly turbulent, causing indescribable pain from the chaos inside his body. Several times he nearly fainted, until gradually grasping the pattern, perfectly syncing his spear technique with it, finally bringing his raging Draconic Elephant''s blood under control, making ite and go at his will.

    At this moment, with the enhancement of his blood, his reaction speed, burst strength, and the five senses all improved dramatically. Under the state of Blood Movement, he could easily perceive dangers from all around and react swiftly. Furthermore,bined with the terrifying burst power.

    ```

    No wonder.

    Whether it was Xiang Tingchun, Luo Dongquan, or Wu Mu''er, they could all easily block the arrows he shot.

    He had the most close-quartersbat with Wu Mu''er.

    This guy could also quickly identify the weaknesses in his spear technique.

    To sum up, the advantage of entry-level Martial Artists before Refining Internal is that they can rely on theprehensive quality improvement brought by "Blood Movement" to resolve most crises and then counterattack with astonishing explosive power.

    Defense, counterattack!

    And amalgamated with physique like Vajra Bloodline and Nine Dragon Living Veins, wouldn''t the speed of Blood Movement far surpass that of ordinary Martial Artists of the same realm, by more than just a little?

    [Cultivation Technique: Unity Spear Technique (Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 0/500]

    [Utility: Vajra Bloodline, Nine Dragon Living Veins, Vajra Body, Frenzy Blood Dance]

    [Frenzy Blood Dance: Blood Movement to the extreme, an unstoppable frenzy!]

    Unstoppable frenzy!

    Perhaps because of the Unity Spear Technique, which integrates the features of various spear techniques, there''s an added element of frenzy!

    Fierce, ferocious, and enduring¡ªwhen fused together, doesn''t that spell out frenzy, a fearlessness in the face of death?

    After Refining Internal, Chen Sansi''s advantage in endurance still exists and even bes better with the advancement in realm, but now, to experience his endurance, one would probably have to withstand the ferocious initial onught of his spear!

    Before reaching the Great Sess of Refining Internal, none of his opponents were a match for his Three Unions technique!

    "I''ve finally achieved Refining Internal!"

    Chen Sansi let out a sigh of relief.

    He didn''t follow the group but temporarily separated from the White Swan Horse, telling it to hide first. He sneaked into the woods, quietly waiting for the pursuit toe, then followed them in secret.

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    Whether retreating or pursuing, a rest was needed.

    Not all horses can travel two thousand li a day like the White Swan Horse; running too hard can exhaust them to death. They need to stop frequently for maintenance and eat quality feed.

    Each time the pursuers rested on the spot.

    Chen Sansi would take advantage of the night to find opportunities to catch isted individuals and force them to divulge information.

    He finally concluded.

    The highest rank among the cavalry generalsing for him was only at the small achievement level of Refining Internal.

    Chen Sansi no longer had any reservations.

    For him, the only worry was being crushed by a High Realm Martial Artist; otherwise, with his spear technique, archery, and the divine speed of the White Swan Horse, he was essentially a guerri warfare god who could not be held by anyone as long as he didn''t charge into the enemy''s heavy encirclement.

    "Enemy attack!"

    The barbarian cavalry had just stopped to rest when suddenly arrows rained down on them, instantly killing several soldiers.

    Everyone looked sharply, but all they saw was a single White Horse military officer in front!

    "A Sheng spy!"

    "Chase him down, kill him!"

    "..."

    The barbarian cavalry truly thought he was just a spy.

    However, as soon as they chased out, the White Horse disappeared.

    "You''re lucky you run fast!"

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    The moment the barbarian cavalry thought he had escaped, several more arrows came flying.

    "Chase!"

    The White Horse disappeared again.

    This repeated over a dozen times, always the same!

    "This is too much!"

    The cavalry Main General could no longer contain himself. When the White Horse military officer reappeared, he charged forward with over a dozen cavalry closely behind him.

    However, this time the White Horse''s speed mysteriously slowed down.

    Until they were within three hundred paces.

    Chen Sansi suddenly turned his horse around, charging at them while drawing his bow. The Main General''s followers fell one after another until they were within ten paces, at which point, the Big Bow in his hands had unknowingly been reced with a long spear.

    The barbarian Main General was also holding a long weapon, arge-ded long axe, well-prepared forbat. But when it actually came time to sh, he found himself at a loss on how to receive the attack, fear unexpectedly growing in his heart, even having the impulse to turn and flee.

    "Puchi¡ª"

    In that moment of hesitation, the long spear had already pierced through his heart.

    The three thousand cavalry behind finally caught up.

    The White Horse General had already vanished again, like a specter, a ferocious ghost reaping lives!

    He took the head of an enemy General amid thousands of troops.

    After the beheading, no trace to be found!

    "Do we... do we still pursue?"

    The Deputy General swallowed hard, remaining motionless for a long time.

    ```

 Chapter 107 Refining Internal Battles Meridian Passage

    "This spear technique actually has the effect of intimidating the enemy!"

    Chen Sansi noticed that the enemy general was clearly frightened and confused before he died.

    Who would have thought that Sun Dushi''s self-created spear technique would have such an effect?

    What level could be above a Martial Saint?

    In his mind, he couldn''t help but recall the record of Grand Ancestor Cao Xie breaking through two thousand three hundred armored soldiers.

    What realm was Cao Xie in?

    What level of troops were those two thousand three hundred?

    Were they guerri fighters or were they surrounded?

    If it were Sun Dushi, how many could he have killed?

    Now was not the time to think about these things.

    After rushing up a few miles, Chen Sansi pulled his horse to a stop, waiting for the enemy to catch up before he fiercely drew his bow and released arrows, instantly shooting one after another, and in a short time, he had shot dead more than a dozen cavalrymen.

    The barbarian cavalry was extremely frustrated.

    They couldn''t catch up, nor could they escape!

    In the end, they didn''t dare advance even half a step and simply formed an arrow formation on the spot, while sending others to secretly detour around, nning to encircle him from the nk.

    Chen Sansi, with his "Insight Shocking," left on Qian Xun two hundred paces before the sound of the enemy''s horses'' hooves reached him, leaving only two arrows behind for the enemy.

    Three thousand cavalrymen, there was no way there was only one Refining Level general.

    And even though he was enduring, he couldn''t face so many people without his Qi-Blood depleting, but indeed, he didn''t know what his own limit was.

    This kind of life-risking thing, naturally, no one would willingly want to test.

    One man, one horse, blocking three thousand cavalry.

    Until dawn broke, it was still the same.

    So much so that the speed of the cavalry''s advance slowed to such a degree that even tens of thousands of civilians could outpace them.

    Chen Sansi did not dare be too arrogant.

    After holding them back for a while, he would spur his horse forward to rush back to his troops, keeping an eye on the situation ahead, especially the movements from the southwest direction of Hengkang Prefecture.

    This time, there were Hua Jin masters.

    Xue Yuping had said so, and he hadn''t forgotten.

    Through interrogating the captured barbarian cavalry, he analyzed that it was highly likely they had gone to Hengkang Prefecture and could turn around at any moment to pursue and kill them. That was the real trouble.

    His guerri tactics were only viable as long as there were not many high realm martial artists on the other side, and none who could overwhelm him. Once there were those above Hua Jin, the situation would be a life-and-death matter.

    Just in case, he had prepared torches attached to his horse for igniting fires.

    It was best not to have to use them.

    ...

    "Where did this fast horsee from? It must be an Exotic Beast disguised as a horse!"

    Of course, the three thousand cavalry didn''t just have one Refining Organ General.

    The vanguard, the center, and the rear each had one Refining Organ General.

    The generals of the center and rear were drawn to the front: "What shall we do? Are we three thousand men to be stopped in our tracks by a single man?"

    "No need to hurry,"

    another general said, "The message has already been rapidly sent to Hengkang Prefecture. Witch God Sect Master Amugu has probably already dispatched troops to encircle them. The Sheng people are too slow, once they pass the mountain ridge ahead, they''ll be trapped, with no escape. By then, it will be an encirclement from front and rear, and not a single soldier or civilian will get away!

    "So, we just need to keep following slowly from behind. Don''t make stupid mistakes like Wu Mu''er."

    ...

    "What has Mr. Chen been doing these past few days??"

    "Yeah, he''s been appearing and disappearing like a ghost."

    Zhao Kang, Feng Yong, and a few others discussed: "Even weirder, ording to the speed the barbarian cavalry should have caught up by now, so why haven''t they appeared yet?"

    "Could it be that he alone has stopped the three thousand cavalry?!"

    As this thought crossed their minds, they exchanged nces, almost simultaneously gasping in shock.

    This sounded like an impossible thing.

    But apart from that, there was no way to exin why the pursuers hadn''t caught up yet.

    Scary!

    Recalling the battle of Po Yang, who knows what was happening behind them.

    Unknowingly, this youngest military officer of the Households had already be theirmander. Even though he hadn''t officially been promoted, they were more than willing to follow his lead.

    In a way, their lives to this point had been given to them by Chen Sansi, otherwise they would have died long ago.

    "Damn, lucky I never offended Mr. Chen before," Zhao Kang felt a chill.

    "You few are dead men!"

    Feng Yong pointed at Liu Jinkui and the others, recalling: "If I remember correctly, when recruiting back then, didn''t you take some benefits from the Tianyuan Martial Arts Hall and refuse to teach them the Breathing Skill?"

    "Right, it was you guys!"

    Zhao Kang said gleefully: "Just wait for the reckoninge autumn."

    "That matter wasn''t targeted at him alone; it was a rule left by the previous Li Qianhu, a tradition for decades. Previously, anyone who dared to teach privately without taking money would be punished by Li Qianhu!"

    Liu Jinkui was panicked.

    "That''s right, if anyone is going to die, it should be Wang Zhi!"

    Xiong Qiuan cursed: "We just didn''t teach, that fat guy took eight taels of silver and still didn''t teach, andter when he saw someone had talent, he came sniffing around like a dog. What a disgrace, deserving of death!"

    "Go to hell! What are you cursing for?!"

    Just as they were talking, Wang Zhi returned with a team of scouts: "Who''s looking to kill me?"

    "Mr. Chen wants to kill you."

    A few said nearly in unison.

    "I''m the dog! A mangy dog, how about that?"

    With incredibly thick skin, Wang Zhi said: "Whether I''m killed or not is not for you lot to decide. My life is entrusted to him!"

    "Damn it. Vice Thousand Households, somebody called you General Tang. You wouldn''t happen to be someone resurrected from the dead from the year 57 of Longqing, would you?!"

    "What realm must the Xuanwu Camp Commander be in?"

    "A Main General, whomands over ten thousand, at the very least has to be in the Meridian Passage. As for the elites from the Eight Camps, eight or nine out of ten are above Meridian Passage, below Martial Saint."

    "Is that not the Profound Image Realm?"

    "What''s the use, isn''t he still practicing bone training just like us?"

    "Roll, roll, roll, you know jack shit."

    Wang Zhi fell silent.

    His organs were damaged, his meridians destroyed; if these could be healed, he wouldn''t need many years to return to his peak.

    Unfortunately, only immortals could heal such wounds!

    "Mr. Chen has returned."

    A group of riders reined in their horses, waiting for the white horse approaching rapidly.

    "Whoa¡ª"

    "What''s the situation now?"

    Chen Sansi asked as soon as he opened his mouth.

    Every day, he would send out several groups of spies to collect intelligence from all directions, ensuring that they could respond in time in case of any emergencies. Commanding tens of thousands of people was truly not an easy task.

    Zhao Kang and others had gathered here to report the situation.

    "I''ve found Du Rong''s corpse. Hengkang Prefecture has already freed up nearly twenty thousand men to encircle us from the shorter route up ahead."

    Wang Zhi''s expression turned solemn, "It seems they don''t n to let a single one of us escape!"

    "The map!"

    Chen Sansi looked at the map and quickly made a decision, "There''s a gorge here where we can make ourst stand. Dy them for another two days. After two days, only heaven will know. Any of you want to leave early?"

    "Mr. Chen."

    "What''s the point of saying these things now? Not just the others, we''re willing to stick with you until the end."

    "Yes, our families, our women and children, are up ahead."

    "Isn''t joining the army and practicing martial arts all for the sake of our own families?"

    "..."

    "Good!"

    Chen Sansi began to issuemands, "Wang Zhi, you take four hundred men and encounter the troops from Hengkang Prefecture. You are only allowed to feign defeat and must not y the enemy; lead them to this gorge.

    "Feng Yong, Zhao Kang, you must hurry to the gorge with the fastest speed. Once the enemy inrge numbers follows, first release arrows and then roll down the rocks and logs. Finally, set fire to the mountain. Don''t engage in closebat. After doing all this, get out of there."

    His ns were entirely reliant on geographical advantages; small tricks. After another eighty li ahead, there would be no more natural defenses to rely on, no more mountains to burn, and they would enter a t wastnd that stretched for a thousand li.

    At that time, there would be no stopping the iron hooves of the barbarian cavalry.

    All he could do now was do his humanly best and leave the rest to fate.

    "Your humble servant obeys themand!"

    "Obeying themand!"

    "..."

    One by one, the men dispatched their troops and left.

    Chen Sansi then returned to his previous position, shooting and killing twenty-some pursuing riders who were behind them. Only after preventing them from daring to move forward for a short time could he afford to rush toward the gorge to lend support.

    ...

    "It''s an ambush, retreat quickly!"

    "..."

    When the barbarian bandits chased into a gorge, a sudden shout from above shook the sky, and arrows fell like rain. Then, rocks and logs came tumbling down from a height of over a dozen zhang, as if the mountains were copsing and the earth was splitting, with no ce to hide.

    The lower-realm barbarian cavalry were instantly smashed into pulp, and their sturdy steeds also suffered, creating an incessant stream of screams and howls.

    "A bunch of trash!"

    Master Amugu of the Witch God Sect, finally arriving, looked at the scene unfolding before him with an extremely ugly expression.

    So many elite cavalry, chasing a remnant of Sheng people carrying civilians, had taken so long yet still hadn''t caught up, not to mention the heavy losses they''d incurred. What was most outrageous was the report from the three thousand cavalry at the rear.

    Their three thousand men had been scared off by a single Refining Organ Little General and didn''t dare to pursue!

    This was a humiliation of epic proportions!

    "You are all Akina, Sai Sihei!"

    "With such terrain, even a fool could see the ambush. Why did you still chase here!"

    "Now scram, pursue them via the main road!"

    While giving orders, Master Amugu himself led twenty-some Witch God Sect Followers, riding the best warhorses, and charged into the gorge, fearlessly facing the rain of arrows and falling rocks as he opened the way ahead.

    "Boom!"@@novelbin@@

    With a palm raised, the rocks above him didn''t even hit him, exploding into countless small stones before they could reach within an inch of him.

    "Meridian Passage..."

    At the end of the gorge, Wang Zhi saw everything clearly and shouted, "Retreat, quickly retreat!"

    s, it was already toote.

    With Meridian Passage opening the path, the twenty-some Witch God Sect Followers on horseback quickly advanced.

    Stay updated with empire

    Master Amugu, holding a specially made Vajra Pestle, found that no one could match him in a fight; they all fell to the pestle piercing their hearts, with the mechanism inside storing the warm blood that gushed out.

    In a few breaths'' time, seven or eight men had fallen off their horses.

    "Meridian Passage..."

    Feng Yong, Zhao Kang, and theirpanions were all hereditary military households born and raised in Po Yang County. They had never left the area, and the highest realm martial artist they had ever seen was at the Refining Level. When faced with someone akin to a legendary Meridian Passage, they had no idea what to do for the moment.

    "Run, hurry up and run!"

    Wang Zhi roared as he rushed forward.

    Master Amugu looked on with contempt and with a single swing of his pestle was about to strike; to his slight surprise, the opponent managed to block the attack with saber technique that far exceeded his own level, but that was all.

    The terrible force surged forward, and Wang Zhi''s hands were immediately shaken and his Mo de was sent flying.

    Master Amugu didn''t give him a chance to catch his breath. His left hand followed instantly, striking the chest. The other man raised his arms to block, but it was futile. He spat out a mist of blood, flew backward several zhang, and crashed to the ground, passing out immediately.

    "Whiz¡ª"

    Just as Master Amugu was about to take the man''s life, he noticed movement from the nk.

    He reached out and caught a willow-leaf arrow urately, crushing it easily. Looking intently, he saw not far away a young General riding a white horse, wielding a big bow.

    "Is it you?"

    The young Sheng person who held back three thousand cavalry surely had to be this individual.

    "Good, that saves me the trouble of having to find you myself."

 Chapter 108 Immortal Treasure Strange Fire

    ```

    "Take Wang Zhi and leave, I''ll lead this one away!"

    "Mr. Chen?!"

    Zhao Kang and the others looked towards the White Horse, all worried, "It''s the Meridian Passage!"

    "Quit your yapping, just do what he tells you!"

    Feng Yong took advantage of the Witch God Church Master chasing after the White Horse to grab Wang Zhi and lead the troops in a rapid retreat.

    "Indeed, that White Horse is incredibly fast, it should be able to lose them."

    Zhao Kang hurriedly followed.

    ...

    "A mere Refining Internal martial artist, standing alone against my three thousand Iron Cavalry, I really must see how capable you are!"

    Amugu quickly lost interest in the others, ordering his men to deal with them while he himself sped off in pursuit of the young military officer.

    "This horse?"

    He quickly realises that the opponent''s mount, the White Horse, is extraordinary, its speed and endurance far surpassing that of a normal warhorse, entering the rank of an Exotic Beast, probably worth a fortune, "It''s mine!"

    The distance between them grew wider.

    Amugu snorted coldly, leaped into the air, used his own horse as a stepping stone, and jumped more than a dozen yards into the dense forest.

    Taking a shortcut!

    The White Swan Horse was not small in size; it was impossible to maintain such speed in the mountains and forests.

    But if he dismounted, even with ''Light as a Feather'' at his disposal, he still wouldn''t be able to outrun the Meridian Passage.

    "Rustle rustle¡ª"

    Rapid footsteps came from the hillside on the right.

    The Witch God Church Master burst forth at such speed that he almost became a blur, closing arge distance with each blink, certain to catch up before reaching open ground.

    "Hao Qianxun, you go first."

    Chen Sansi simply jumped off the horse, lit the torch carried by the horse with his Fire Stick, then used it to light the oilcloth-wrapped Fire Arrow, pulled the bow and quickly loosed arrows at the blur, the speed of his archery equally lightning-fast.

    "Impressive archery!"

    Amugu, watching the continuous barrage of arrows, eximed from the bottom of his heart, "Your horseback shooting skills are genius level, too bad, you''re not one of our grasnd people! Don''t waste your effort. Even a bow of over ten stones can''t hurt me!"

    He wielded the Vajra Pestle in his hand and deflected the arrows with ease, pouncing through the air like a fierce tiger.

    "CLANG¡ª"

    The long spear and the Vajra Pestle collided.

    In an instant, Chen Sansi felt an indescribable, terrifying powere from the tip of the gun, roaring up to his arm. The blood of the dragon elephant danced wildly in his body, and from head to toe, he turned into a Vajra Body. His arms, holding the long spear, even made metallic vibrating sounds.

    Despite this, he still felt an intense pain sweep over him. The wooden handle of the spear swung wildly like rubber, forcing him to release his grip and let it fall to the ground.

    "Time to die!"

    In the blink of an eye, Amugu was in front of him, thrusting the Vajra Pestle straight at his heart.

    "CLANG!"

    Another metallic sound rang out, as if a great bell had been struck.

    Chen Sansi ced the Zhenyue Sword in front of him just in time to block the strike, feeling as if a huge mountain had smashed into him. He lost his bnce and flew backward several yards before crashing heavily against a tree trunk, his organs aching from the impact. He forcefully stabilized his form,nding with the Zhenyue Sword as support, his right hand still holding the torch, a trickle of fresh blood spilling from the corner of his mouth.

    For the first time since he began practicing martial arts, he was injured.

    Not because he was weak.

    But because his opponent was at the Meridian Passage!

    Meridian Passage, Mysterious Phenomenon, Martial Saint.

    Meaning, the Witch God Sect Follower in front of him was only one major realm away from Martial Saint.

    "Not bad, you survived two of my moves, impressive!"

    While Amugu spoke, he didn''t give Chen any chance, bursting forward with astonishing speed to kill again.

    "Whoosh whoosh whoosh¡ª"

    Chen Sansi nted the torch into the ground and switched his weapon back to the bow and arrows, moving from lighting the arrow to loosing it in one breath.

    Amugu caught a Fire Arrow, on his palm he summoned an invisible, fearsome power, directly snuffing out the me, and then crushed the iron cage until it was twisted and deformed.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    Another Fire Arrow flew towards him.

    "Need to see the coffin before you cry?"

    Amugu, repeating his trick, easily caught the arrow, intending to break it directly, but he felt that this Fire Arrow seemed a bit odd, a bit hot to the touch.

    "Hm?"

    "BOOM¡ª"

    A red hot me burst forth suddenly, instantly turning into a fire dragon several yards high. The Witch God Church Master didn''t even have time to scream before he was engulfed by this red me and then turned into a pile of ash.

    Chen Sansi took a deep breath, sat down on the ground, and used his Breathing Skill to control the injuries inside his body.

    After all, he had to resort to thest measure he wanted to use.

    He had already prepared a foolproof n.

    Even if the arrows were useless,

    he had already coated the Zhenyue Sword withmp oil, which would cut through anything once lit.

    Only he was reluctant to do it, nning to use it at the very end.

    A mortal world sword, likewise, could not withstand the Immortal Treasure Strange Fire.

    Such a fine sword would be a pity to burn.

    As for exposing it,@@novelbin@@

    he had been paying attention to the other Witch God Sect Followers, knowing that none had followed.

    Even if they had,

    There wouldn''t be many, only a dozen or so, no different from ughtering chickens and dogs after killing the high master of the Meridian Passage.

    If they didn''t follow, that was their luck.

    "Meridian Passage, huh..."

    Chen Sansi saw that the person was able to use a powerful force that was different from the others, probably the Power, which could also be attached to the surface of the body or a weapon.

    "I wonder if it can be attached to an arrow."

    "Otherwise, the lethality of archery is a bit insufficient against High Realm Martial Artists."

    "Even Refining Internal would take a lot of time."

    He still preferred the feeling of one arrow, one kill.

    "Now''s not the time to ponder this."

    Chen Sansi hastily ate some pre-prepared healing pills, then got up to scatter Amugu''s ashes, making sure not to leave any trace, and then lit a fire, setting aze the nearby woods. Discover hidden content at empire

    ```

 Chapter 109 Sun Xiangzong

    "Drive!"

    Chen Sansi rode Qian Xun straight ahead.

    When he reached the middle of themon folk''s column, he noticed something amiss up front.

    The people seemed to have encountered a deluge or a ferocious beast; the originally orderly lines had scattered in disarray, nearly beyond control.@@novelbin@@

    "What''s wrong, the barbarians couldn''t have circled to the front so quickly!"

    Chen Sansi sped up and clearly saw several gs being held aloft, all belonging to the Great Sheng Dynasty, and upon the general''s banner, the name of Youzhou General Jing Fuhu was clearly written.

    "Where are you desertersing from?!"

    The young general who had previously whipped and killed several of themoners came forth: "I see you''re wearing armor befitting a general! Yunzhou is in urgent need, how can you desert!"

    "?"

    Chen Sansi didn''t even have the chance to speak.

    "Not killing you deserters will fail to establish the might of the Sheng Army!"

    The young general said as he lifted his spear, ready to strike, but someone called out to stop him.

    "Halt!"

    Another general on a ck horse slowly approached, wielding an Azure Dragon Crescent de, nked by many fully armored generals, all young, at most in their mid-twenties.

    "Princely Heir!"

    Yin Hanwen treated the neer with great respect: "Isn''t this man a deserter who should be executed?"

    "Find out the situation in Yunzhou first."

    Cao Fan squinted his eyes and asked: "Where do you hail from?"

    "An Ding Prefecture, Po Yang Thousand Households, Captain Chengxin Chen Sansi."

    Chen Sansi introduced himself.

    "So you are that Chen Sansi?"

    Cao Fan was slightly surprised.

    His followers exchanged nces, clearly having heard the name before.

    "Is it you who captured that useless Yuwen scion?"

    Yin Hanwen asked with interest: "The battle reports say that you were surrounded by thousands of cavalry. With you in the Bone Forger Realm, how did you do it?"

    "Luck, nothing more."

    Chen Sansi could feel the disdain in their words; he took note of this in his heart, but now was not the time for such pettiness. The priority was to resolve the issue of the pursuing enemy.

    But the other party simply wouldn''t give¡ª

    "I knew it, no point in asking you."

    Yin Hanwen scoffed: "Surely you captured him when he was alone, right? The battle reports are probably local officials exaggerating to tter you. That Yuwen scion is a well-known good-for-nothing, what''s so impressive about capturing him? His Majesty actually praised you personally."

    "Why did you flee?"

    Cao Fan asked sternly: "To my knowledge, Yunzhou is in a total state of emergency. You''ve just been awarded a royal decree not long ago. Shouldn''t you have defended your city to the death? Why abandon it and run here? We''re almost at You State''s territory past Huanwen County."

    "I¡ª"

    Chen Sansi felt frustrated.

    He realized these men were likely high-ranking officials'' sons. Their arrogance was normal, but why wouldn''t they even give him a chance to speak?

    "He is not a routed soldier, nor a deserter!"

    A cold voice spoke up.

    "Miss Sun?"

    Cao Fan greeted familiarly: "I was wondering why I hadn''t seen you in Liangzhou. They only said you went to Yunzhou with Brother Bu Qi to be a Selection Officer. I would never have expected you''d go to such a trivial county town, what was its name?"

    "Princely Heir."

    A pale-faced Sun Li rode up beside her junior brother: "How can you use Sansi of desertion without knowing the facts? Don''t you realize that if it weren''t for him, I, my junior brother, and tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians would have perished under the barbarians'' des."

    "Exactly!"

    Sun Buqi also rushed over, recounting the tale of the battle at Po Yang, where a thousand remnants broke through six thousand barbarian marauders.

    "Sun Buqi, are you blowing smoke?"

    Yin Hanwen disbelieved: "Him, a Bone Trainer, killing a barbarian Refining Internal?"

    "He has the Nine Dragon Body, no worse than any of you!"

    Sun Buqi said discontentedly: "Speak more respectfully."

    "Even if what you''re saying is true."

    Yin Hanwen said: "In the end, didn''t you still flee the city?"

    "There were special reasons for that!"

    "Brother Bu Qi, why are you so protective of him? That''s favoritism! Abandoning the city and fleeing on your own is a serious crime!"

    "Yuwen, are you asking for a beating?"

    "Brother Bu Qi, who can you beat?"

    "..."

    "Enough, quit arguing."

    Cao Fan gave a bow to the young man: "Could you please inform us of the specific situation inside Yunzhou borders? Especially An Ding, Taining, and Lingfeng Prefectures."

    Chen Sansi had to prioritize the overall situation: "Directly fifty li behind us, there are three thousand barbarian cavalry, and to the southwest, another twenty thousand barbarian marauders. My spy''s report indicated that the highest-ranking among them is a Refining Organ Commander, with also a Divine Sect Meridian Passage expert."

    "I''m not asking about that."

    Cao Fan shook his head slightly: "There''s no need to worry about pursuers here; not far ahead, Huanwen County has already called in over thirty thousand soldiers for defense, plus the natural barrier of the Hongze River; they won''t be able to cross it."

    "What I want to ask Brother Chen about is the distribution of barbarian troops within Yunzhou and the specificbat situations, especially in An Ding, Taining, and Lingfeng Three Prefectures."

    "I''ll do it!"

    Read thetest on empire

    Sun Buqi took over the conversation, sharing all they knew about the situation.

    "Oh?"

    Cao Fan gestured, and immediately two people spread out a map in front of him: "ording to this, the situation is that the Three Prefectures are still holding; that makes things easier! Next, we will only need to send thirty thousand troops to An Ding Prefecture and twenty thousand to Taining Prefecture. Once these two are relieved, Lingfeng will naturally be saved, and then we can coordinate with the main forces of the Northwest Three States to retake Yunzhou territories."

    "That''s great."

    Yin Hanwen showed joy: "Princely Heir, let''s quickly report to General Jing so that he assigns some troops for us tomand. The Selection hasn''t officially started yet, and we''re about to make a great contribution."

    "Hmm."

    Cao Fan nodded, signaling to pack up the map: "Brother Chen, now that we''ve met,e with us. General Jing will assign troops for you tomand based on your realm, and you surely wouldn''t want to miss the chance to earn military honors."

 Chapter 110 Why Tolerate

    "Shanshi, they are not my father''s men. My father''s men would never act like this."

    Sun Buqi was afraid the young man in front of him would misunderstand, "That man surnamed Cao, is the Crown Prince''s Heir, the toady next to him is the son of the Minister of Ministry of Industry. The Youzhou Army, they are not part of the Eight Camps, but rather belong to the Left Army Governor''smand, under the control of the Military Affairs Department."

    "In the Northwest Three States, You State, Liang State, and Yan State each have their ownmanding general."

    "Although during wartime, my father can allocate the distribution of all hands, but he only has authority over their deployment, not their administrative affairs."

    "Only the Eight Camps are truly our own people."

    "Even so, in recent years, efforts have been made to decentralize power, appointing provincial governors, and trying to transfer people elsewhere. The eldest apprentice brother, too..."

    "He''s right."

    Sun Li spoke feebly: "The Eight Camps are not the forces of a single region. Although they were initially recruited and assembled in Liang State to fight against the barbarian marauders, they wereter moved to wherever the need arose, staying in the southern regions before being sent to the east to fight against Qing Country.

    "And then, three years ago."

    "It was when the barbarian marauders began to stir again that the Eight Camps were readjusted to the Northern Territory."

    Chen Sansi understood this practice.

    To prevent them from bing too rooted in one state and turning into local tyrants.

    It''s possible that each time they leave, the local supporters of the Eight Camps, the Family ns and Sect officials, also have to suffer a purge...

    Everything must be under the control of the court.

    This matched the Emperor''s style of resorting to despicable methods like poisoning to silence people and kill them.

    But if it were truly so.

    Could one really tolerate it?

    Chen Sansi asked himself if he would be able to endure it if he were in that situation. He definitely would not.

    Why can Supervisor Sun endure it?

    Unless...

    He was about to die.

    Only a man on the verge of death, with something left to care for, would have no choice but to suffer in silence.

    Although it was merely a conjecture.

    Chen Sansi felt that only this could make all the logic make sense.

    Otherwise.

    If one is among the supreme powers in the human realm,manding eighty thousand elite troops, why endure? What would be the reason to tolerate anything?

    Beyond this.

    There was the identity of the people participating in the Selected Point.

    Identities so precious.

    The Crown Prince''s Heir.

    That is, nominally, the Emperor after the next.

    Would such a personck resources or Cultivation Techniques?

    Why would he run to participate in Selected Point and be a disciple of Supervisor Sun? What could be so tempting?

    These were not matters to consider at the moment.

    "Counterattack?"

    Soon, the martial arts halls were gathered together, and upon hearing themand issued by the mander," they all looked at each other with puzzlement.

    Obviously, they were somewhat confused by the meaning of this phrase.

    Counterattack naturally meant killing the enemy.

    But their thousand or so men, going to kill twenty thousand?

    Who knows how many among them were in the Refining Internal realm?

    How could they counterattack?

    "One day."

    Chen Sansi spoke firmly, "It will take another day before the vigers ahead can start crossing the river. We want to dy for one day. It''s not possible on the in, so we need to enter the mountains to counterattack!

    "Xu Wencai, I give you half an hour toe up with at least three blocking points. If you can''t find them, I''ll chop off your dog head!

    "The rest of you..."

    "Go and see your families one more time.

    "This might be yourst words, so you can choose not toe back. After half an hour, if you choose toe back, be prepared to die."

    With that said.

    The others finally understood.

    "Yes, sir!

    Not a single one raised an objection."

    All the men gradually dispersed.

    "Junior brother..."

    Seeing him, Sun Li asked, "Aren''t you going to talk to Sister Lan? She''s in the carriage up ahead."

    "I won''t,"

    Chen Sansi took up the old schr''s writing brush and hastily wrote a few words. After sealing the letter, he handed it over, "Senior Sister Sun, please help me give this to Sister Lan, and then make sure you personally ensure her safety."

    "You''re really not going?" Sun Li emphasized her question.

    Chen Sansi shook his head again.

    He didn''t tell Sun Li that he was scared.

    Fearful that after seeing the only rtive he had in this world, he wouldn''t dare to go and intercept the enemy.

    Seriously speaking, he himself didn''t know how he ended up in this peculiar situation.

    Perhaps it was because his family was in front of him.

    Perhaps it was because his subordinates were willing to die for him, driven by a sense of responsibility or something else; he just couldn''t bear to abandon them.

    Or perhaps...

    It was because he came from another world.

    He knows it sounds pretentious, extremely pretentious, but that''s simply the truth.

    If there had to be a motive or logic, it would be that.

    In Chen Sansi''s view, there were no upper-ss people or lower-ss people, only those who deserved to die and those who didn''t.

    Those who deserved to die, he would kill.

    Those who didn''t deserve to die, he would try his best to help.

    He also knew that if word of this battle got out, there would certainly be those who used him of being a hypocrite, of feigning righteousness.

    But Chen Sansi didn''t care.

    If worsees to worst, he would "pretend" for the rest of his life.

    "You all..."

    Chen Sansi looked at the nephews that Wang Zhi had left behind and added their followers, also amounting to around two hundred people, "Do you also n to stay behind? Your families aren''t up ahead."

    "We won''t disgrace General Tang!"

    The crowd eximed in unison.

    "Good!"

    Chen Sansi nodded his head.

    Lastly, there was Sun Buqi, who showed no intention of leaving.

    To st him away in these circumstances would be an insult.

    As for Xu Wencai, bereft of rtives or kin long ago, hey on the ground studying the maps.

    ...

    Half a dayter.

    Yellow Earth Ridge.

    "Hurry up!"

    "We must intercept them before the Sheng people cross the river!"

    Several Witch God Sect Followers mixed within the troops, uniformly holding Vajra Pestles used to collect blood,

    among them the Refining Internal Leader tookmand, "Not a single one should remain after the killing. Remember to collect the Heart Blood promptly!"

    "What about Master Amugu?"

    The Cavalrymander Bilege inquired, "Why don''t I see him?"

    The more than twenty thousand pursuers, everyone above Hua Jin, were all called away to attack An Ding Prefecture.

    Only a few of them with the skill of Refining Internal remained, indeed somewhat afraid tomand such arge army.

    The only Witch God Sect Meridian Passage master had also disappeared.

    "Master Amugu has gone to pursue a Refining Organ Little General, and his current whereabouts are unknown; he might be waiting for us up ahead," the Squad Leader urged. "Let''s speed up!"

    "Refining Organ?"

    Bilege found it interesting, "Using Sheng people''s words, this is called ''using a cleaver to kill a chicken.'' Master Amugu acts ruthlessly, personally taking action and leaving no routes of survival for the Sheng people."

    "I received a carrier pigeon message, ordering us to collect the Heart Blood of about ten thousand people as a reserve within two days, and then to retreat at top speed without engaging in prolonged warfare, and directly leave Yunzhou."

    The Squad Leader stated coldly, "Without that White Horse Refining Organ, there''s no more Refining Organmanders up front, posing no threat. Only Bone Training Realm remains, so we may pursue as we please."

    "Speedy retreat?"

    Read exclusive chapters at empire

    Bilege pondered, "Retreating from the Northwest so soon?"

    A war, especially a decisive battle for life and death, should at leastst a year or half a year.

    Retreating after just over two months indicates there was never a realmitment to see it through to the end.

    "We simply follow orders."

    The Witch God Sect Squad Leader reminded, "The Sheng people up ahead are about to cross the river. If we don''t speed up, there''s a high chance they''ll escape sessfully, and both you and I will bear grave punishments for failing the mission."

    "Rest assured, after breaking out of the mountain range, we''ll catch up within half a day!"

    "Hush!"

    As the two spoke, with sounds of chaos and men and horses toppling over, the vanguard suddenly halted.

    "What''s happening?"@@novelbin@@

    "Sir, there''s an ambush ahead!"

    "Traps are everywhere!"

    "Move it!"

    Bilege personally went to inspect.

    He saw that the not-so-wide path through the mountain range had been dug full of deep pits, rudimentary traps set within them. Moreover, every passable spot was also blocked by mounds of loose stones.

    The most troublesome part was the presence of several carts used to transport supplies, stuck in the middle, loaded up with dry wood and kindling, burning fiercely and preventing the vanguard cavalry from passing.

    Bilege wasn''t in a hurry and loudly ordered, "Clear the obstacles!"

    "Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh¡ª"

    No sooner had a group of soldiers gone to handle it than a troop of enemy crossbowmen emerged, firing a volley of arrows from the distance.

    "Child''s y!"

    Bilege said calmly, "Bring the thick shield bearers from the rear to the front to bear the brunt!"

    Among the more than twenty thousand troops, it was impossible for all to be cavalry.

    The vanguard consisted of five thousand cavalrymen.

    The rest were foot soldiers.

    Infantry with shields defended while others cleared the way.

    After half an hour, they had cleared the path for travel.

    However, they hadn''t gone far when they encountered simr obstructions, happening two or three times consecutively, each dying them by more than half an hour, unbeknownst to them, adding up to half a day.

    "General Bilege!"

    The Witch God Sect Squad Leader said anxiously, "We can''t keep this up; they are merely dying time."

    "Do you think I can''t see that?"

    Bilege said through gritted teeth, "They''re clearly forcing me to lead the troops through a side path, but I don''t understand. Unlike the previous canyon, the slopes on both sides here are low, totally unsuitable for an ambush. Even if we oblige and go that way, it will stille down to a direct sh of weapons.

    "Their forces at most number a thousand people, plus three hundred horses. Even if our cavalry can''t fully deploy to form an encirclement, it would just cost us some troops and horses to crush them. What are they trying to achieve..."

    "General, the situation is urgent. Since you feel there''s no ambush on the side path, let''s hurry through it," the Witch God Sect Squad Leader said, disturbed. "As long as we can move swiftly beyond Yellow Earth Ridge, some loss of troops and horses is eptable."

    "Alright,"

    Bilege quickly decided, "Cavalry, follow me on the side path; infantry, go around the obstacles and proceed on the main road. I want to see what kind of trick they are really up to!"

    The barbarians split their forces in two.

    To save time, all five thousand cavalrymen took the side path, including Bilege, summing up to five Refining Internal practitioners.

    Bilege led at the forefront, advancing cautiously and slowly, racking his brain about the possible ambushes in such terrain. When he reached the fork where they would leave the mountain range, he finally encountered the Sheng army at the end of the side path, on the wide, open ground.

    There was no ambush here.

    Whaty ahead was merely a formation of no more than three hundred cavalrymen and a few hundred foot soldiers. A significant number of them didn''t even have their own armour, wearing that stripped from the Xi River tribes instead, and the weapons in their hands were of the grasnd make, terribly conspicuous. They simply blocked the exit of the mountain range, ready for battle.

    At this moment,

    Bilege finally understood why the enemy went to such lengths to push them onto this path.

    They nned to use their lives to buy as much time as possible for the civilians ahead to cross the river!

 Chapter 111 Du He

    In Bilege''s eyes, a trace of admiration shed, but it was quickly reced by disdain.

    "Car Suspension Formation!"

    "Charge¡ª¡ª"

    After Wang Zhi left.

    Zhao Kang became the only Bone Forger. He stood in the forefront, holding the He Miao Long Sword, and roared loudly, "Charge!"

    Under the incredulous gazes of five thousand cavalry, a mere three hundred enemy cavalry charged without any hesitation. Although their equipment was simple, the cavalry formation they disyed was well-organized.

    As they rushed, they resembled a giant wheel, equipped with sharp des.

    "Bilege, let me handle this!" Stay connected through empire

    Another Refining Organ General from the barbarian tribes stepped forward, also leading his Iron Cavalry to open up in formation, presenting a "ÈË" shaped charge, numbering around three hundred as well.

    This was the reason they were forced to take the small path.

    Encountering on a narrow road, negates the advantage in numbers.

    The barbarian Refining Organ General took the lead, holding a meteor hammer, ready to smash the Sheng man who was shouting "Charge!" However, just as the two armies were about to sh, Zhao Kang suddenly pulled his horse to a halt, and from behind him charged a white horse, a long spear carrying a terrifying momentum. It arrived in front of them almost in an instant.

    After the initial shock, the barbarian general immediately swung his meteor hammer. He truly felt he could block the attack, but the next moment, he felt a chill in his heart as a hole was pierced through him.

    The Main General is dead.

    The barbarian cavalry were panic-stricken. In disarray, they retreated, with over thirty of them in in session. Fortunately, the main army was right behind them, preventing a total copse. They quickly regrouped and rearranged their formation.

    "White Horse Refining Organ, a spear kills the general? Isn''t this the one Master Amugu went to chase? He hase back alive?!"

    Bilege''s pupils trembled, he couldn''t help but ask, "Where is Master Amugu?!"

    "Killed by Sun Dushi!"

    Chen Sansi''s voice boomed, "Sun Dushi will lead the Youzhou Army here within an hour. If you do not surrender now, you have but one path left¡ªthe path of death!"

    "Sun Xiangzong, Youzhou Army?!"

    Bilege forcefully calmed himself, "You spout nonsense! How could You State send troops here!"

    "Because you''ve already been defeated in the Northwest Three States!"

    Chen Sansi spoke each word distinctly, "Otherwise, why do you think we''d dare block your way with just this few men?"

    "Defeated?"

    Bilege, looking at the opposing side''s confident demeanor, felt an unsettling suspicion in his heart.

    Theoretically, the likelihood of Sun Xiangzong appearing here was minimal.

    But it couldn''t be ruled out that the Northwest Three States might have withdrawn their troops earlier. After all, every transmission of news has its dy, and everyone receives information that is, at best, days old.

    Perhaps Sun noticed signs of a Blood Sacrifice and specifically came to check.

    After all, if not for the presence of someone above the level of Meridian Passage, how could Amugu still be missing?!

    "Sun Xiangzong..."

    "He hase to Yunzhou?"

    "Why has hee here?"

    "..."

    Upon hearing this name, the barbarian troops immediately exploded into panic, each one bing restless and distressed.

    The supreme strategy of warfare is to attack the enemy''s ns and heart.

    Just like what happened previously in Po Yang, half-true, half-false news most effectively terrifies the enemy.

    Chen Sansi knew that mere words wouldn''t deter them for long at this moment, but even dying for a minute was beneficial.@@novelbin@@

    He didn''t lead everyone here merely to face death.

    Mainly, it was to buy time.

    Once enough time had passed, they would look for a way to break out.

    "What are you panicking for?!"

    Still rational, Bilege rebuked loudly, "Whatever he says, you just believe? If it were really so, would they need to send these defeated remnants to die?"

    "Exactly!"

    The other Refining Organ Generals concurred, "Bluffing at thest gasp!"

    "All men, heed mymand!"

    "Take not a step back, rotate and charge continuously, whoever kills the White Horse General will be rewarded with ten thousand cattle and sheep, and a hundred ves."

    "Charge for me¡ª¡ª"

    On a narrow road, no other strategies were left.

    "Car Suspension Formation, charge!"

    Chen Sansi raised his Lu Ye Long Spear. Paying attention to several generals in the opposing crowd, he suddenly realized that perhaps there was still a way out.

    Simple.

    He just needed to kill all the enemy generals, right?

    ...

    Hongze River.

    Thousands of civilians finally reached their destination.

    In front of them was a magnificent, turbid river. Looking across, the mountains on the other side appeared like rows of green eyebrows, beneath whichy a small town¡ªHuanwen County.

    To reach Huanwen County, they had to cross a river three hundred yards wide.

    Fortunately, at the riverbank crossing, boats had been prepared in advance, along with civilians to manage the ferrying.

    The people from Po Yang lined up and began to board the boats one after the other.

    "Howe we don''t see Mr. Chen and the others?"

    "..."

    Soon, something seemed amiss.

    The Po Yang soldiers who had escorted them this far were nowhere to be seen up to now.

    "Cross the river, cross the river!"

    Xu Wencai finally learned to ride a horse. Holding a feather fan, he shouted desperately, "Why aren''t you hurrying to cross the river? Wait until you are almost halfway across, then Mr. Chen and the others can retreat!"

    "What?"

    "We get halfway across, and only then can Mr. Chen leave, why?"

    "..."

    "What else could it be?"

    Xu Wencai was so anxious his face and neck turned red, "Behind you, there are twenty thousand barbarian marauders. Mr. Chen went to counterattack with a thousand men just to buy you time!"

    "Twenty thousand men?"

    "Isn''t that almost as many as our entire county?"

    "..."

    Only at that moment did they realize, recalling their husbands or sons who had suddenly made a special trip home not long ago. The words they spoke might well have been theirst.

 Chapter 112 Emperor Wan Shou

    ```

    "They didn''t chase us?"

    Chen Sansi doubted whether he was hallucinating.

    More than ten thousand foot soldiers, followed, perhaps, by another three thousand cavalry.

    Just like that...

    They let them cross the river?

    "Boom¡ª"

    A loud noise thundered.

    Chen Sansi saw from afar, about twenty miles away, it seemed as if someone was thrown into the sky and then fell back down, scattering like beans!

    "Bang!"

    "Who is Chen Sansi?!"

    Another loud noise followed.

    It was as if an Earth Dragon had turned over, and the entire riverbank trembled violently.

    What seemed like a mountain crashnded, and upon closer inspection, it turned out to be a general in shining armor. From the look of the armor, it was from the Sheng people.

    "It is I."

    Chen Sansi dismounted and bowed with his hands sped, his breath somewhat unsteady.

    "You have already returned? Sister Li was worried in vain; quickly cross the river," he said.

    Lv Ji sized him up and noticed Sun Buqi next to him: "Younger martial brother, you''re here too. How are your injuries?"

    Sun Buqi''s clothes were already ragged, soaked with blood from head to toe. He used his long spear as a crutch, supporting himself with difficulty, not even taking a nce as he said, "It''s none of your concern."

    "Hmm, it''s good that you''re alright," replied Lv Ji, who seemed ustomed to this. He turned to look at the ck dots in the distant sky, his expression turning stern: "Oh no, master!"

    "Bang¡ª"

    Yet another leap, shaking heaven and earth.

    He could leap nearly a hundred zhang each time; in just a few breaths, he had disappeared from view.

    Sister Li?

    If this person was Sun Li''s senior martial brother, then the master he mentioned...

    Sun Dushi?

    Chen Sansi looked towards where the ten thousand pursuers should have beening from, his gaze growing moreplex.

    One person, to withstand over ten thousand barbarian bandits?

    Is this really a human?

    And there was Sun Li''s senior martial brother.

    One leap is over hundreds of zhang, what kind of realm is that?

    The Meridian Passage Realm certainly does not demonstrate such strength, so it must be Mysterious Phenomenon, more like the legendary Martial Saint.

    In Po Yang County, they were like frogs at the bottom of a well, only able to see a mere corner of the vast heavens.

    Would their future opponents all be at this kind of level?

    Chen Sansi thought about himself again.

    Indeed, still far too weak.

    But it''s impractical to aim too high; set a small goal for now, reach Refining Internal Organs Perfection as soon as possible, then move on to Hua Jin.

    "Plop¡ª"

    "Old Xiong, Old Xiong!"

    "Dog Scrap!"

    "Silly Chun!"

    "Wu Da, Wu Da!"

    "..."

    Finally reaching the riverbank, with no pursuers behind them.

    The brothers could no longer hold on, tumbling down to the ground one after another.

    The initial thousand men, had now...

    Be only four hundred!

    Most of these four hundred were utterly exhausted, many copsing unconscious on the spot.

    Zhao Kang was covered in blood: "Sir, the brothers have all fallen, how do we cross the river..."

    "Sir!"

    "Mr. Chen!"

    "..."

    Upon the grand and turbulent surface of the Hongze River, suddenly, a few small boats appeared, then dozens, then hundreds, countless simple clothed figures standing on the boats, waving at them.

    "Let''s cross the river."

    Chen Sansi breathed a sigh of relief.

    With the help of hundreds, thousands of civilians.

    Thesest four hundred men could finally lie t and cross the river.

    "Brother Shi!"

    Gu Xin and Sun Li rowed a boat quickly over.

    "Howe you''re bleeding so much..."

    Gu Xin was biting and tearing, ripping off pieces of her dress''s sleeves, preparing to use them for emergency bandaging.

    "A minor injury."

    Chen Sansi''s cloth armor was already so tattered that it barely held together, his appearance now worse than a beggar''s, blood mixed with grime covering his exterior, indistinguishable whether it was his enemy''s or his own."

    "Mydy, Mr. Chen here singlehandedly killed five Refiners!"

    Zhao Kang vividly remembered, saying, "If it weren''t for that, we would all have died at Yellow Earth Ridge!"

    This was too terrifying.

    He hadn''t been practicing martial arts for long.

    Among those barbarian leaders, at least two were at the small achievement in Refining Internal Organs, but they couldn''t withstand a single blow from him.

    Keep in mind, this was during a fierce encirclement.

    Otherwise, they might not havested even three rounds!

    That means, Chen Sansi could now take on five Xiang Tingchuns!

    "How many?"

    "Five!" Enjoy exclusive adventures from empire

    Sun Li also turned pale, hastened to take out a porcin jar from her bosom, containing scar-removal ointment Chen Sansi himself had previously mixed for her. It was very effective for treating external wounds, and she was ready to apply it personally.

    "Sister, what about me..."

    Sun Buqi, who followed from beginning to end, was also full of wounds, but seemingly, nobody cared about him.

    "Sister, I''m really okay."

    Chen Sansi had only shallow wounds on his body, merely some cuts and bleeding here and there, which wouldn''t take more than a few days to heal, even though it looked rather scary.

    Fortunately, he relied on his Iron Bone Copper Skin trait; an ordinary person would have been minced into pulp by now.

    His worst injuries were internal.

    Taking on the Meridian Passage was no joke, andter he was hit by heavy weaponry, slightly damaging his internal organs.

    But it was no big problem, a few days of rest would be enough for recovery.

    "Hmm..."

    When Sun Li touched the wounds, she recoiled like she had been electrocuted, then she handed the ointment to Gu Xin: "It''s better if Sister applies the medicine for you."

    "Really, it''s not necessary, let''s talk about it after we get back."

    ```

    Chen Sansiy on the deck, watching the riverbank grow increasingly distant and the fadingmotion in the distance.

    "Did they really hold them back?"

    "That''s no longer my concern."

    In any case, he had won.

    It was just that the other prefecture cities, counties, and viges in Yunzhou, as well as the millions of other civilians and soldiers guarding the borders, were probably not so lucky.

    So many matters.

    Chen Sansi had no energy left to think about them.

    "I''m so tired, Sister Lan, I''m going to sleep for a while."

    In the past two months, he had hardly slept well.

    Now, atst, he could rest properly.

    ¡ª

    Capital City.

    Imperial Pce.

    "It''s snowing!"

    "Heaven blesses us with auspicious snow!"

    "The Emperor is virtuous indeed!"

    "Go and report the good news!"

    "..."

    Vermilion high walls, golden bricks, and sparkling tiles.

    Snow from the sky nkets everything in white, dressing it all in silver.

    With this year''s bted heavy snow, joy enveloped both inside and outside the Imperial Pce.

    "Master!"

    "It''s snowing!"

    "..."

    A dozen eunuchs from the Ritual Supervision, wearing thick and warm red cloaks, knelt in unison outside the pce gates. Above their heads, the massive que bore the gilded characters "Longevity Pce."

    Despite being in the Imperial Pce, there were almost no ostentatious decorations visible. Both the architecture and decor were restrained. Theyout seemed more akin to a Taoist temple than a pce.

    Only those who knew their craft could appreciate that every timber here was worth its weight in gold, and each tile was invaluable. Constructing such a pce must have taken an extraordinary amount of time,bor, and wealth.

    The eunuchs knelt before the doors, unmoving, quickly bing covered with ice and snow as if they were sculptures made of ice.

    Inside the great hall.

    There was no Dragon Chair here, only high altars shrouded withyers of cyan-gray curtains, barely revealing the silhouettes of figures sitting cross-legged inside, their true faces hidden, only silence pervading as if the hall itself were amidst the frozennds.

    "Your Majesty, I know you bear the worries of the entire world, but please, do not rush and harm Your celestial body."

    A court official in a scarlet robe knelt on the ground, his words earnest.

    Next to him, an old man sat on a small stool instead of kneeling, speaking slowly, "Your Majesty, judging by the time, Mr. Huang should be returning soon."

    Still silence.

    "A great victory¡ª"

    "A great victory in the Northwest!"@@novelbin@@

    "A great victory in Yunzhou!"

    Only when the urgent and clear voices announcing the joyous news entered the hall, did the entire Longevity Pce suddenly feel as warm as spring.

    "Your humble servant pays respects to Your Majesty, long live, long live, forever long live!"

    An old eunuch with youthful features and white hair, dressed in a ck uniform, rushed into the hall, exhausted from the journey. He knelt heavily on the ground and performed a deep kowtow, then without any further words, he took out a petition and read aloud:

    "On the 20th day of the twelfth lunar month, the Eight Camps in Liangzhou greatly defeated the Tuoba n at Moqiu, annihting over thirty thousand of the enemy, beheading tenmanders, and capturing innumerable supplies and provisions. As a result, the other three nomadic tribes on the grasnds crumbled without a fight, retreating over three hundred miles overnight, back into the depths of the grasnds."

    "On the 22nd day of the twelfth lunar month, the Youzhou Army arrived in Yunzhou, and An Ding Prefecture was saved from peril. Soon after, Xuanwu Camp and Vermilion Bird Camp led the Liangzhou Army into the battle, reimed the entire territory within seven days!"

    Behind the curtains, the authoritative voice carried a hint of urgency.

    "What else is there?"

    "This is a letter written by hand from the Great Khan Tuoba, seeking peace, and he requests Your Majesty to read it personally!"

    Mr. Huang knelt on the ground, took out an exquisitely crafted box, and carefully presented it just outside the curtains.

    Arge hand reached out from within the curtains and swiftly snatched the box away.

    "Click."

    The sound of the box opening echoed.

    Momentster, for the first time in twenty years, everyone present heard the Emperor burst intoughter, a sign of immense pleasure.

    Emperor Longqing''s voice was exuberant, "In this matter, Yan Liang is the chief contributor, but the rest have also made great contributions, and they shall all be rewarded, all be rewarded!"

    "Master."

    Mr. Huang stood up with permission, bent at the waist, and said, "There is one more small matter that I have not yet fully reported."

    "Speak."

    Mr. Huang spoke slowly and evenly, "Chen Sansi, the Captain Chengxin from Yunzhou, is still alive. Not only did he survive, but he also rescued tens of thousands of civilians from Po Yang County. In the end, to cover the civilians'' crossing of the river, he and slightly more than a thousand men held off five thousand Iron Cavalry and even cut down several enemy generals of the same realm, proving himself to be invincible and brave.

    "At the critical moment, Sun Xiangzong took action personally.

    "With a single thrust of his spear, Sun Xiangzong prated one thousand eight hundred armors and routed nearly twenty thousand barbarian bandits."

    "Pierced one thousand eight hundred armors?"

    The rtively young official in the crimson robe sneered, "Just the mention of his name makes me angry! Your Majesty, I suspect that the deaths of Magistrate Xue and Magistrate Ji in Po Yang may have been the work of Sun Xiangzong!

    "That Sun fellow is a dying me in the wind, yet he still dares to y the hero. I think he''s grown tired of living."

    "Your Majesty."

    Mr. Huang lowered his voice, "Initially, your sacred edict intended to promote Chen Sansi to a position in the Capital City. Now, by a twist of fate, he has ended up in the Governor Mansion. Your Majesty, should we still reward him, or issue another decree for his reassignment?"

    "Rewarding him is a certainty, but there''s no need to call him back."

    The voice behind the curtains resumed its untroubled tone, "I, am very fond of this brave young man.

    "But if Sun Xiangzong is willing to act, it shows he likes the boy too, perhaps enough to pass on his True Inheritance. If we were to recall him now, wouldn''t we be ruining his opportunity for nothing?

    "Yan Liang, what are your thoughts?"

    "In response to Your Majesty,"

    Elder Yan spoke with a weighty voice, "Considering thest letter from Xue Yuping, Chen Sansi shows great respect for Your Majesty. He epted everything granted by the imperial decree on the spot. With proper grooming, he may be a useful talent in time.

    "Moreover, Princely Heir Cao Fan might not be quite to Sun Xiangzong''s liking.

    "How about we leave him in the Governor Mansion for now, to see how far he can go?"

    "Hmm, do as Yan Liang suggests!

    "Besides, the act of helping civilians cross the river should not only be rewarded but also proimed to the whole world. Let the people everywhere see that my servants are all such righteous individuals!

    "Did you just mention that it is snowing?"

    The curtains were lifted, revealing the face of the True Dragon.

    Emperor Longqing, though an elderly man with years upon him, surprisingly still had mostly ck hair on his head, and he walked with a firm and steady gait. If not for the scent of decay that emitted from him, one could almost believe in his ability to rejuvenate.

    He went to the entrance of the Longevity Pce and watched the snow fluttering down from the sky, feeling emotional, "Such an auspicious heavy snow. With this snow, good news has beening one after another. Well then, with the end of the war, I can finally close off in peace. You may all withdraw."

    Upon hearing this, almost everyone knelt down at the same time.

    "Congrattions to Your Majesty, joyous tidings to Your Majesty!"

    "After this battle, our great Dasheng empire shallst for a thousand, a myriad of generations, thriving forevermore!"

    "And Your Majesty will surely attain Immortality!"

    "The next time we see Your Majesty, we shall likely have to address you as Immortal."

    "Emperor Wan Shou, Emperor Wan Shou!"

    "You lot just know how to tter me. Hurry up and withdraw, don''t disturb my meditation."

    Emperor Longqing swept back to his pce with a wave of his sleeve.

 Chapter 113 The Art of Alchemy

    ```

    Huanwen County.

    Inside a residence.

    A fit young man with his upper body bare was waving a long spear in the courtyard. With the movements of the spear, a tornadoposed of snowkes swirled around him, making the already cold winter day feel even more biting.

    He wasn''t wearing any clothes yet didn''t feel the cold at all. His body was emitting terrifying heat, and the snow melted into water before it could touch his skin, making him seem as if he had just leapt out of an alchemy furnace, radiating intense heat. Continue your journey with empire

    Streams of hot blood surged from his marrow, furiously churning within his body and tempering his internal organs.

    Refining organs skill, small achievement stage, Quenching Internal Organs!

    The human body is a whole.

    Having reached this stage in martial arts, where sinews, bones, skin, marrow, and blood had all been trained, it was naturally time to temper the internal organs. Otherwise, no matter how strong one''s external power, if the internal organs can''t withstand it, it''s all for naught.

    Just like before.

    Chen Sansi, having resisted the simultaneous attack of two individuals who also practiced refining organs skill, had blocked it but still suffered internal injuries.

    Quenching Internal Organs involved tempering the four major and six minor organs to further increase the physical body''s strength.

    "Bang¡ª"

    Chen Sansi thrust out with his spear, directly shattering the water tank in the middle of the yard. The several feet of ice inside also exploded, turning into ice spurs that pierced in all directions.

    [Cultivation Technique: Unity Spear Technique (Proficient)]

    [Progress: 0/1000]

    [Utility: ¡­, ¡­, Mysterious Elemental Five Viscera Body]

    [Mysterious Elemental Five Viscera: Upon great sess of the cultivation technique, tempered into the Mysterious Elemental Five Viscera Body]

    "Great, something else to add to the list!"

    "I''ve truly be a jack-of-all-trades."

    "At least I''ve finally made a breakthrough!"

    Chen Sansi put away the long spear and exhaled a breath of hot air.

    It had been ten days since crossing the river.

    His wounds had healed, and he had coincidentally made a breakthrough in his cultivation.

    Besides that.

    After so much exertion, his various skills had also improved significantly.

    [Tracking and Concealment (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 888/1000]

    ¡­

    [Skill: Horse Control (Proficient)]

    [Progress: (309/500)]

    ¡­

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (Proficient)]

    [Progress: 890/1000]

    ¡­

    [Skill: Archery (Great Sess)]

    [Progress: (550/2000)]

    ¡­

    [Skill: Medical Skill. Mortal (Proficient)]

    [Progress: 210/1000]

    ¡­

    Among the many skills, especially Horse Control and Commanding Soldiers, had been practically in continuous real-life use, thus their progress had increased very quickly, needing only a few more days to make a breakthrough.

    The battle also had a final oue.

    Several days before, the Northwest Three States decided the victor, and the Four ns of the grasnd all retreated.

    On the Yunzhou side.

    After Cao Fan and others brought troops to the rescue, they easily lifted the siege. Additionally, with the involvement of the Eight Campster, they undoubtedly reimed the entire territory.

    But if you cut off the beginning and end,

    The barbarians'' massacre within Yunzhousted for a full ten days!

    Yunzhou, ten days!

    Nearly a millionmoners.

    Bodies strewn everywhere, wailing ghosts and howling wolves.

    This was a disastrous defeat, a thorough andplete disaster.

    Although nond was lost, it was still a massive loss.

    Just the thought of recovery, it would probably take over a decade.

    It''s said that the court has ordered the migration of refugees andndless tenant farmers from various states.

    These poor people would finally be able to have their ownnd, how ironic.

    Moreover, it won''t be long before the barbarian forces return stronger than before.

    The logic is simple.

    If they couldn''t reap huge benefits from this ten-day ordeal in Yunzhou, why would they willingly go along with such a grand scheme orchestrated by the Emperor? After all, they too had sacrificed thirty thousand troops.

    Having gained benefits and be stronger, what would the barbarians do?

    ```

    "Of course, the attack on Dasheng!"

    "In other words, no matter what the Emperor is actually up to, or what the Blood Sacrifice is for, judging from the oue."

    "He''smitting treason by colluding with the enemy!"

    "And that''s without the Immortal Treasure being found."

    "Otherwise, if the barbarian tribes just need to conserve their strength for ten or twenty years, building a significant force stronger than Hua Jin, how could we even fight this war? Are we really nning to rely on our poption advantage to brute force our way through?"

    "Speaking of which."

    "The things they''re using for the Blood Sacrifice, it might be rted to the Immortal Treasure!"

    "Aplete prescription, a container that can withstand the temperature of Abnormal Fire, andmp oil."

    "Only when these three things arebined, do they truly deserve the ''Immortal'' in their name."

    "Chen Sansi estimates that the barbarians attacked Po Yang County partly to search for the Immortal Treasure. They just didn''t find it, but they will certainly not give up in the future."

    "That being said."

    "If one day, he manages to make his way to the Barbarian Capital, might he be able to gather aplete set?"

    "There''s actually hope."

    "It''s rumored that one of Sun Dushi''s greatest lifelong wishes is to delve deep into the grasnd, ughtering the barbarian marauders so they wouldn''t dare to make any rash moves again, securing peace for the people in the north."

    "Buting back to the point, why hasn''t he done so until now?"

    "With the Eight Camps and two hundred thousand troops from the Northwest Army, there are definitely enough soldiers, so it can only be because the highestbat power is not sufficient!"

    "Above Martial Saint, not enough?"

    "Chen Sansi, ignorant and uninformed, doesn''t know much about the highestbat power of the Four ns of the barbarians: Yuwen, Tuoba, Murong, and Duan. He only knows that the Yuwen family has been supported by the Witch God Sect in recent years."

    "He knows virtually nothing about the other three families."

    "The same goes for Xu Wencai."

    "Even if he''s capable, he couldn''t possibly understand situations far beyond his rank."

    "But the Eight Camps must be clear on this."

    "Even Sun Li and Sun Buqi might know."

    "It''s just that he has never asked."

    "It''s not that he''s uninterested, it''s just that there was no need before."

    "Back then, with only Bone Training level, what would be the point of asking about the highestbat power on the grasnd? Would that not be an act of idle curiosity?"

    "But moving forward, it''s time to understand it properly."

    "Because of the Immortal Treasure!"

    "Previously, it was the Witch God Sect sneaking into the Central ins in search of the Immortal Treasure."

    "Next, it''ll be a reversal of roles."

    "Themp oil was stolen from the Tuoba n, while the Blood Sacrifice was conducted by the Witch God Sect, which represents the Yuwen family."

    "Tuoba, Yuwen."

    "These two families, they definitely can''t escape responsibility!"

    "Chen Sansi has now mentally drawn himself a huge pie."

    "Having onlymp oil is indeed a bit shabby."

    "It''s like having a set of equipment with only an ignition device and nothing else."

    "Although the Spiritual Grain is still proving very effective."

    "The more it is so, the more curious he is about what could be refined if he had the container and the prescription."@@novelbin@@

    "Immortal."

    "If there really exists an Immortal, where do they live?"

    "And why would these things end up in the ''mortal world''?"

    "''One step at a time,'' he told himself."

    "Chen Sansi knew he mustn''t rush."

    "After surviving life and death for two months, things have finallye to a temporary close."

    "The people from Po Yang County have also started returning one after another."

    "If they stayed in Huanwen County, they''d only be refugees."

    "There are only two oues for refugees: either die of starvation or live in incognito as house ves for the powerful families, losing their freedom forever."

    "Byparison, it''s naturally better to return to Po Yang."

    "As for Chen Sansi, he naturally will not be returning."

    "In two days, he''s leaving for Liangzhou to take part in the selection for the Eight Camps'' Selected Point. Even if he isn''t the first choice as a True Inheritor, he''s confident he can join the Inner Sect. In the future, he will most likely remain in Liangzhou to join the Eight Camps."

    "Why are you secretly training again?"

    Gu Xin returned from shopping for supplies and immediately ran up to her husband worriedly when she saw the long spear in his hands: "Sister Li said you''ve injured your internal organs, and you need proper rest!"

    "I''m really fine."

    Chen Sansi put down the long spear and suddenly picked Sister Lan up: "If you don''t believe me, try for yourself!"

    "Don''t, you need to rest well, don''t hurt yourself because of this."

    "I''m as sturdy as can be."

    ''I am a Vajra Body with Copper Skin and Iron Bone; how could I be so easily damaged?'' Chen Sansi thought to himself but didn''t say out loud, as he truly dared not demonstrate it.

    "You promised to have a child, now that the war is over, are you nning to go back on your word?"

 Chapter 114 The Martial Saint of the World

    Three dayster.

    Outside Huanwen County, arge group of troops assembled.

    Three carriages, along with hundreds of escorting soldiers, formed a grand procession.

    "Halt! What are you doing?"

    "We are subordinates of Mr. Chen."

    "I know, so why are you following us?"

    "Can we go together?"

    "No."

    At the city gate.

    Hundreds of soldiers looked at the caravan, unsure of what to do.

    For Zhao Kang, Wang Li, Zhu Tong, and others, after numerous bloody battles, they had already regarded Chen Sansi as their mainstay. If truly left behind, they would probably not even know what to do each day.

    Li Qianzong, the one in charge of the escort, refused without hesitation: "No means no."

    "Qianzong, can''t you make an exception?"

    Chen Sansi personally came forward to plead: "I am preparing to go to the Eight Camps Selected Point. Even if I don''t rank well in the Selected Point, I''ll still be a low-level general. I''ll need some people under me, and I''ll continue to use them without taking any soldiers from Liangzhou."

    "Mr. Chen."

    Stay tuned for updates on empire

    Li Qianzong said helplessly, "It''s not that I can''t make an exception, but the rules are the rules. They all are soldiers under the g of the Commanding Department from An Ding Prefecture. Now that the battle is over, they should return to stand by. How can they just leave whenever they want? Wouldn''t that create chaos?"

    "Qianzong, I remember there are vacancies in the Liangzhou Guard Station, right?"

    Sun Li hurried over upon hearing this: "Why not transfer them to the Liangzhou Guard Station?"

    "My dear Miss."

    Li Qianzong gave a bitter smile: "Why are you pressing me too? Even if they are transferred, shouldn''t there be a procedure?"

    Chen Sansi felt a headacheing on.

    He knew that the other party was not intentionally making things difficult.

    It was truly against the rules.

    But he really couldn''t bear to leave behind this group of men.

    These were the first soldiers he had led. Now they all had "Sinking Formation Death Will" on them. If truly left behind, he couldn''t bear it.

    "Otherwise..."

    Chen Sansi looked at everyone: "You return to Po Yang first and wait for me? I''ll strive to get good results at the Selected Point and then find a way to transfer you. It''ll be at most half a year; I promise I will definitely get you transferred."

    "..."

    Everyone exchanged nces.

    "Let them go together."

    Just as everyone was even preparing for a temporary farewell, an attendant pushing a wooden wheelchair appeared, with a middle-aged schr in a green robe sitting on it, holding a Scroll Book in his hand.

    "General Fang!"

    "Greetings to General Fang!"

    Though clearly a disabled schr, Li Qianzong and others greeted him respectfully upon seeing him.

    "Fourth Brother!"

    Sun Buqi''s eyes lit up as he rushed forward: "You, howe you are here?"

    Fang Qingyun smiled: "Of course, to take you and Miss Ri home."

    "Where''s my father?"

    Sun Buqi looked around: "Did hee?"

    "He came, then left."

    Fang Qingyun spoke calmly: "He is very busy, but this time he actually looked at you in a new light."

    "My father saw me killing enemies?"

    Sun Buqi asked eagerly and excitedly: "What did Dad say about me?"

    Fang Qingyun said with a smile: "Master said, although you are not up to much, you still have a bit of hot-blood."

    "Is that it?"

    Sun Buqi felt that wasn''t really apliment.

    Isn''t that still not up to much?

    "General Fang."

    Li Qianzong said with some confusion: "You just said you were taking them with you? Isn''t that against the rules?"

    "I wrote the petition seven days ago, and I just received a reply today. Qianzong, take a look."

    Fang Qingyun produced a transfer order: "From today onwards, these people are part of the Eight Camps, to be temporarily ced under my Azure Dragon Camp for duties, to be arrangedter."

    Eight Camps, Azure Dragon Camp?

    Feng Yong, Zhao Kang, and others exchanged incredulous looks.

    They were just hoping that they could enter the Liangzhou Guard Station and continue serving under Chen Sansi, but how did they suddenly end up in the Eight Camps?

    Everyone had heard.

    In the Eight Camps, even if one was just doing logistical chores, the ordinary Supplemental Medicines were plentiful!

    Doesn''t this mean they were like phoenixes rising to the top of the trees?

    "Thank you, General!"

    Chen Sansi sincerely gave a fist salute: "Chen Sansi remembers this kindness!"

    This person said he had written the petition seven days ago, which means he had been ready since the day they crossed the river.

    "No need to be polite, Younger Brother."

    Fang Qingyun also returned the fist salute with a warm smile: "My surname is Fang, given name Qingyun. If you don''t mind, just call me Elder Brother."

    Chen Sansi immediately said: "Thank you, Brother Fang!"

    "So you''re the Phoenix?"

    From a distance, Xu Wencai rushed over excitedly, bowing deeply: "My surname is Xu, given name Wencai, styled Wo Long. I have long admired your reputation!"

    "?"

    A question mark appeared above everyone''s heads.

    "What a thick-skinned fellow!"

    Xu Bin stared with wide eyes: "Your self-bestowed stylistic name, can it be the same as one respectfully addressed by others based on prestige?"

    Liu Jinkui hastily shouted: "Old man,e back here, don''t embarrass us!"

    They had finally gotten the chance to go to Liangzhou together and feared that the old schr might identally offend General Fang, which could result in others dismissing them on a whim.

    "Oh?"

    Fang Qingyun looked at the shabby old schr in front of him, ten years his senior, not feeling insulted but instead quite interested: "You are Wo Long, and I am Phoenix. It seems to say that our meeting here is a significant destiny."

    "Mr. Fang!"

    Xu Wencai rarely spoke solemnly, "Honestly, although I am called Wo Long, I am aware of my shallow talents and virtues and have many areas where I would like to consult with Mr. Fang."

    "Good."

    Fang Qingyun cheerfully said, "After we set offter, you can join me in my carriage. It might turn out to be me asking for your advice! Chen, has everyone arrived?"

    "One is still missing."

    Chen Sansi looked back towards the end of the line.

    "Old Six, Old Six, stop hiding."

    Fang Qingyun shook his head, "Come out."

    Wang Zhi, who had barely recovered from a severe injury, stepped out with his head lowered, his eyes darting around apprehensively, "Can I, can I also go?"

    "Why not?"

    Fang Qingyun retorted, "What do you think kept you alive with such severe injuries?"

    "Is it Master?"

    Wang Zhi''s body trembled, nearly falling to his knees, "Is he not angry with me anymore?"

    "He''s definitely still angry. Who told you to attack the city with the entire Xuanwu Camp just for the sake of ''loyalty'', leading to so many unnecessary casualties?"

    Fang Qingyun sighed, "But that doesn''t mean he will cut all ties with you. Follow brother Sansi for now. When the old man is in a better mood, I''ll plead your case."

    "Brother Four, your leg..."

    Wang Zhi looked at the lower half of the green-robed schr, concerned, "In Longqing fifty-seven years, where were you? I didn''t see you for a whole year. They said you were about to breakthrough Martial Saint, how did you end up like this, even giving up martial arts for the literati, referred to as what? ''Phoenix Chick''."

    "Let''s not bring up the past."

    Fang Qingyun''s smile was tinged with bitterness, "Now that everyone is here, let''s set off."

    "Let''s go¡ª"

    Li Qianzong waved his hand grandly.

    The procession of thousands set off mightily.

    Moreover, since Li Qianzong and others were from the Eight Camps, carrying the banners of the Eight Camps, in the Northwest Three States, no one dared to provoke them, and the way was unobstructed.

    Chen Sansi did not ride in a carriage.

    He let Xu Bin''s wife and Sister Lan take the carriage since she had just given birth, and after enduring more than a month of convalescence she was still weak, plus she needed to breastfeed, making it inconvenient to walk with the main group.

    Speaking of which, Xu Bin''s daughter turned out to be quite adorable.

    The name given by Xu Wencai, "Xu Yuhuan", was indeed a bit familiar...

    Furthermore.

    Out of gratitude for this period, Xu Bin insisted on having Chen Sansi be the godfather to his daughter.

    "Xu Bin, you shameless, just like Fatty Wang!"

    Zhao Kang directly cursed, "You think this is gratitude, you just want to take advantage of the situation! If Mr. Chen bes a Great General in the future, imagine how high you can climb!"@@novelbin@@

    "Exactly."

    Xiong Qiuan, covered in bandages, added, "Really shameless, typical of someone brought out by Wang Zhi."

    Wang Zhi angrily retorted, "Damn it, insult me all you want, but why drag me into this?!"

    Xu Bin turned red with shame, utterly embarrassed.

    "Alright, Brother Bin."

    Chen Sansi readily agreed, "I''ll be this uncle for Yu Huan."

    "This..."

    Xu Bin, realizing the impropriety, said, "Sir, nevermind."

    "I''ve already agreed, and now you say nevermind? Are you taking me for a fool?"

    Chen Sansi joked, "That settles it then, now I also have a daughter."

    "Good, good."

    Xu Bin was beaming, "When Yu Huan learns to talk, I''ll teach her to call me godfather first, without a godfather, she and her mother would have died in the crowd long ago!"

    Thus, the godfather rtionship was established.

    It left the rest green with envy.

    Feng Yong hurriedly shouted, "Mr. Chen, I have a daughter too!"

    "Go to hell, Feng Yong, your daughter is too old, she''d be more suited as Mr. Chen''s concubine."

    "Get lost..."

    "Hahahaha¡ª"

    The group bantered andughed, never bothering to count the days they traveled.

    During these days, Xu Wencai visited Fang Qingyun''s carriage at the same time each day, seemingly gaining a lot.

    Good things.

    The old schr was undoubtedly skilled, and he wouldn''t fail in critical moments, but limited by his background, there was so much hecked. With guidance from a general of the Eight Camps, his capabilities would surely improve greatly.

    Speaking of which.

    This Brother Fang really had no airs about him.

    Just like Sun Li and Sun Buqi.

    Anyone personally trained by Supervisor Sun generally wasn''t irritating.

    "Wang Zhi."

    Chen Sansi approached, "You mentioned that Brother Fang almost broke through to Martial Saint before?"

    "Yes."

    Wang Zhi nodded, "He was the first among our fellow disciples to touch the threshold of Martial Saint, but during the invasion of Nanxu Country in Longqing fifty-seven years, he disappeared. When he returned, he became like this, truly unfortunate.

    "Now in the Eight Camps, it seems only the eldest brother is a Martial Saint, and recently one younger brother also reached the threshold..."

    Chen Sansi asked, "In this world, how many Martial Saints are there?"

    "Fifteen years ago, not many, just three to five."

    Wang Zhi carefully counted and replied, "But ever since I left the Eight Camps, there''s been a surge, and now, they say there are dozens of Martial Saints around the world, not just in the court but including several major sects.

    "Of course, those above Martial Saint are still few.

    "My master, he is definitely the strongest."

    "That many more?"

    Chen Sansi temporarily couldn''t reach such a high realm.

    But he also knew that something unusual must be brewing.

    Longqing fifty-seven years.

    Fang Qingyun returned disabled.

    That same year, Supervisor Sun broke above Martial Saint.

    Martial Saints exploded across the world.

    That year, apart from the annihtion of Xuanwu Camp, there must have been other significant events.

 Chapter 115 A Grown Woman Wont Stay Long

    "We''re almost at Liangzhou!"

    Li Qianzong, riding a horse, spread the news, "Just a final stretch and everyone can rest!"

    "We''re finally almost there."

    Chen Sansiy on Qian Xun''s horse''s mane, flipping through a book in utter boredom.

    He himself was not tired.

    The main issue was constantly traveling without much time for martial arts, which really made him anxious.

    [Cultivation Technique: Unity Spear Technique (Proficient)]

    [Progress: 168/1000]

    Even after such a long time, despite utilizing the White Swan Horse''s swift speed to chase back and forth, the progress had only increased by this small amount.

    That too under the circumstances of having Spiritual Grain, otherwise the pace would be even slower.

    The book that Chen Sansi held was a folk-banned book, acquired from Fang Qingyun, called "Record of Major Sects under Heaven," which contained records of some major sects and schools throughout thends.

    In a small Po Yang County alone, there were the Four Great Martial Arts Schools holding sway.

    Inrger areas, simr organizations existed.

    They were just not called "martial arts halls" but referred to as "sects."

    As Chen Sansi saw it,

    In this world, the sectsrgely reced the influential ns and families of worlds where cultivation was not possible, constituting a significant force.

    Moreover, the history in the "Record of Major Sects under Heaven" was quite different from that in "Dasheng Chronicles."

    In "Dasheng Chronicles," the main ounts were about how the Grand Ancestor Cao Xie was invincible and heroic, and the efforts and hardships of the nation''s founders were significant, while the sects were somewhat glossed over.

    But in "Record of Major Sects under Heaven," the story was different.

    It was said initially, Cao Xie received substantial support from thirty-six major sects throughout thends, which helped him unify the nation, and some sects even had their own territories three hundred years ago, almost equivalent to feudal princes.

    But Cao Xie was ruthless and ungrateful.

    Within less than five years after his ascension to the throne, heunched a campaign to stifle Jianghu, wiping out the influence of a fewrgest sects all at once, thereafter suppressing the sects, restricting disciples'' numbers, and limiting their cultivation realms.

    This situation only improved during Yuan''an''s renaissance.

    To this day, every time there is a war, it bes necessary to dispatch sect disciples to battle, and they have regained some status, albeit limited and are still under the category of families and ns, and no single sect could prevail on its own.

    Interestingly,

    Liangzhou had two major sects with Martial Saints.

    One was the Tiantong Sword Sect, and the other was the Moon Splitting Mountain Vi.

    Apart from the ordinary sects, there was a mysterious sect that greatly intrigued Chen Sansi.

    Seeking Immortal Tower.

    This tower was profoundly mysterious, with a heritage of thousands of years, but it rarely appeared, even during changes of dynasties.

    Their sole purpose was to seek immortality, an organization seemingly detached from worldly desires.

    Next, there was the Witch God Sect.

    It was rumored that thousands of years ago, the Witch God of the Witch God Sect had ascended, and his followers aimed to find the path to the Immortal Realm and continue following the Witch God.

    Supporting the Yuwen family was merely for constructing their own forces to help in their quest to find traces of immortals, coveting the fertilends of Central ins because it was easier to find traces of immortals due to the area being rich in extraordinary talents and spiritualnds.

    It seems, the real upper echelons were all practicing immortality.

    And Chen Sansi was still practicing martial arts.

    The disparity between them was as vast as that between the clouds and the mud.

    Coming to the Governor Mansion was indeed the right move.

    Nowadays, there were many Martial Saints, but those above Martial Saint were still as rare as phoenix feathers and unicorn horns.

    By joining the Governor Mansion, if he himself could reach the threshold, it was very likely he could receive guidance.

    Under the Emperor...

    It was pointless to consider.

    Just because he didn''t carry the surname "Cao," his potential was capped.

    How could the Emperor, who was so cautious of Sun Xiangzong, possibly nurture another Chen Sansi?

    Lastly,

    The sect record also mentioned a unique martial constitution called the Transformation and Mysterious Body.

    Individuals with this constitution, before practicing martial arts, showed no difference from ordinary people, but once they started practicing, no matter the cultivation technique, would gradually transform their bodies to be mostpatible with the techniques practiced. Those with the Transformation and Mysterious Body, given enough resources, were certain to reach the Martial Saint Realm!

    Thus, the Transformation and Mysterious Body, along with a few other rare constitutions, were collectively known as the Innate Martial Saint Body.

    "Am I an Innate Martial Saint Body?"

    As Chen Sansi read this, his emotions inevitably fluctuated.

    He indeed did not doubt that he could be a Martial Saint. After all, with the proficiency panel and Spiritual Grain, it was merely a question of time.

    But he had not expected that the changes brought by the panel were not illogical.

    It turned out to be a Transformation and Mysterious Body!

    Along the way, Chen Sansi had been worried about the jumbled mix of physiological traits within him, wondering what to do if someone detected it during Bone Training; it seemed he had been overly concerned.

    [Skill: Reading (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: (496/800)]

    He closed the book and looked up.

    At the end of the road ahead, a city gradually emerged on the horizon. The city was small, even smaller than Po Yang County, with "Dongyi City" inscribed inrge characters above the city gate.

    This ce was only a dozen or so miles from Liangzhou City, but it was quite strangely besieged by heavy troops.

    On the military banner, the prominent mark of "ck Tortoise Camp" was visible.

    Wang Zhi was taken aback and felt a peculiar sensation in his heart.

    Chen Sansi asked, "What are they doing surrounding this ce?"

    "Mr. Chen is not aware,"

    Li Qianzong spoke in a rxed tone, "During the recent skirmish against the barbarians, due to the shortage of men, temporary help from the disciples of the sects was requested for defending the city. However, this ''Seven Absolute Sect'' actually conspired secretly with the barbarians, betraying the nation and nning to coborate from inside with the enemy to capture Liangzhou.

    "Obviously, that was wishful thinking. When they acted, they were suppressed by General Lu, andter they led fifteen hundred disciples to hide in Dongyi City.

    "Dongyi City and West Yi City are two garrison cities of Liangzhou City, specifically utilized for stationing troops. There are no civilians; not much grain was stored, and since the conflict had ended, we haven''t rushed to deal with them and simply surrounded them for now.

    "Our Commander always strategizes to minimize casualties."

    Chen Sansi nodded.

    This was indeed true.

    Even with only about a thousand men, storming the city would indeed lead to substantial casualties.

    With little food supply inside, dragging it out would leave only two choices: one, open the gates and surrender; two, starve to death.

    "Let me give a little heads-up to the junior disciple."

    Fang Qingyun, pushed along by Sun Li, came over and spoke slowly:

    "The ''Seven Absolute Sect'' is merely a second-tier sect within Liangzhou. The reason why Master has kept them until now is also to use them as a benchmark for the Selected Point assessment. We will see the specifics of the assessment when the timees,"

    "Thank you for the tip, Senior Brother."

    Chen Sansi expressed his gratitude.

    "It''s not exactly leaking the questions since many people already knew. Telling you just makes things fairer."

    Fang Qingyun made a gesture of invitation, "Could I ask you to step aside for a private word, Junior Brother?"

    "Why not?"

    Chen Sansi dismounted, took the wheelchair from Sun Li, and pushed it to the woond beside the road, "What advice do you have, Senior Brother?"

    "Here, take this."

    Fang Qingyun took out a porcin bottle from his sleeve, "If you feel unwell within two months, mix this with water and drink it. If nothing happens, just discard it, and consider it as if nothing happened."

    Chen Sansi opened the porcin bottle, which contained ck medicinal powder.

    [Green Blood Poison Dew Antidote]

    Antidote.

    Of course.

    Lord Governor Sun probably knew the Emperor had poisoned him.

    He had instructed him to act as usual, obviously having prepared this antidote in advance.

    Yet he didn''t explicitly say so.

    And he even said to drink it after two months, wondering if the Emperor would provide an antidote? If provided, then act as if nothing had happened.

    Was this meant to avoid directly confronting the Emperor?

    "I understand now," Chen Sansi said.

    He didn''t ask further.

    "Right, that''s all then."

    Fang Qingyun said softly, "It has been quite a journey, brother. Please push me back; we are about to reach Liangzhou."

    ...

    Ten milester,

    A giant city came into view.

    The city was as high as six fathoms, and judging from the walls'' thickness, they appeared to be more than five fathoms thick, almost endless at first sight, like a massive beast of rock sprawled across the wilderness.

    It was Liangzhou City, the foremost stronghold of the Northern Territory.

    "Open the gates¡ª"

    After verifying their identities, a team of over a thousand people entered the city smoothly.

    Despite being the closest to the barbarian tribes and in a region of constant strife, the bustling inside the city surprised everyone.

    Passing through the city gates, there were towers and shops everywhere, vendors shouting, people haggling, and the noise of disputesbining into a symphony of life, with streets bustling and people living peacefully. Stay updated via empire

    "Mr. Chen, please follow me."

    Li Thousand Captain said, "Your and yourdy''s amodations have been arranged by General Fang, and your followers will also be well ced in the areas where the soldiers stay. Please rest assured."

    "Thank you for your efforts."

    Chen Sansi and others bid farewell.

    "Ah, this journey truly wore me out, but atst, we are home."

    Fang Qingyun coughed twice, "May I ask Sister Sun Li to push me home?"

    "Senior Brother Four,"

    Sun Li spoke with a hint of concern in her voice, "Earlier, I encountered Cao Fan and Yin Hanwen, and some others. Why did they all rush from the Capital City to Liangzhou for the Selected Point? Is it really necessary?"

    "Thest round of closed-disciples are all aiming for the special skills in the hands of our master, so of course it is necessary," Fang Qingyun stopped, bought some candied hawthorn on sticks, and handed one stick to each of the Sun siblings, "Not just them, but the Crown Prince''s men too, and even the Emperor has sent people to participate in the Selected Point.

    "Their physique is good and they have the best resources. Some are even nearing the Hua Jin phase. This Selected Point might be the most outstanding one of recent years."

    "Nearing Hua Jin?"

    Sun Li stopped mid-bite and pulled the candied hawthorn away from her mouth, "Junior Brother has only just mastered Refining Internal; can he reallypete with them?"

    "Stop for a moment."

    "Hmm?"

    After the wheelchair stopped, Fang Qingyun turned around to face his Junior Sister, and just stared without a word.

    "Senior Brother Four, why are you looking at me like that?"

    Sun Li was puzzled.

    "It''s nothing,"

    Fang Qingyun, realizing but not revealing, wore an inscrutable smile, "It just feels like you are quite close to this Junior Brother Chen, worrying about him so soon."

    "Senior Brother,"

    Just as Sun Bu Qi had entered the city, he bought a lot of food and toys and hurried to catch up, "Cao Fan and the others seem quite formidable. Perhaps you could help Sansi when the timees?

    "His skills would certainly make him the top disciple in other years, but what if he doesn''t make the cut this year? Wouldn''t that be too harsh?"

    "What, you think I should show favoritism?"

    Fang Qingyun struck Sun Bu Qi on the head with a rolled-up scroll, "Even if I wanted to, do you think that would be helping Chen? That would be harming him!

    "Take yourself for example. Although your physique is average, your perceptiveness is excellent. With some effort, you certainly wouldn''t fall far behind Cao Fan and his group. Do you know why you''re still lingering in the Bone Training Realm?

    "Isn''t it because you rely on our Master?

    "I still remember when you were a child at the private school, if you lost a fight, you would immediately threaten with ''my father is a Martial Saint and my Senior Brother is from the Mysterious Phenomenon. I''m going to get them toe and smash your whole family.''

    "Especially Tang Ruoshan. Every time he actually went and intimidated others, either by smashing stone lions with a palm or uprooting willow trees, not stopping until he made them cry. Hepletely spoiled you!

    "How could you possibly cultivate diligently?"

    "Boring, you manage to bring up something about me in everything,"

    Sun Bu Qi made a quick exit.

    "Hey~"

    Fang Qingyun suddenly remembered something and furrowed his brows, "Sister, unless I''m mistaken, Junior Brother Chen is already married, isn''t he?"

    "Yes, indeed."

    Sun Li, unaware of any issue, answered with a clear gaze, "Sister Lan is very skilled at needlework, she is virtuous and kind-hearted."

    "This is bad, this is bad!"

    Listening to the endless praises, Fang Qingyun first shouted an rm and then sighed deeply, "Our Master will probably be quite upset about this~"

    "Senior Brother, you''re speaking in bits and pieces. What exactly are you talking about?"@@novelbin@@

    Sun Li considered herself smart.

    However, today she found her Senior Brother''s words as hard to understand as a riddle."

 Chapter 116 Imperial Decree Bestowal, Renowned Throughout the Land

    "Mr. Chen, this is the ce," said Li Qianzong as he stopped in front of a grand residence. "General Fang has prepared the house in advance and even arranged for two maids. If that''s not enough, you can buy two more yourself."

    "It would be best to purchase the children from poor families through a broker, better than seeing them sold into brothels, wouldn''t you agree?"

    "There''s something else I need to make clear beforehand: People from the Governor Mansion must not randomly kill or harm their servants for entertainment."

    "Of course, this is only if they haven''t made any mistakes. If they do something wrong, they still have to be punished."

    "Alright."

    "I''ve said everything that needs to be said. Now, Mr. Chen, you can settle in here and wait for the notification from the Selected Point.

    "Hmm, you might also get some visitors since those who can participate in the Selected Point are all outstanding and talented youths from various ces. In the future, who knows, you might be a General. Mr. Chen, you''ll handle it ordingly."

    "I appreciate it, Li Qianzong. I''ll treat you to a drink another day," said Chen Sansi as he sped his fist in farewell.

    Li Qianzong had been quite thorough in his exnations, despite the task being a challenging one.

    "We''re at the new home now," Chen Sansi finally had time to look at the residence.

    What a grand home, with three courtyards and three entryways.

    In Po Yang County, only the county magistrate and a few wealthy families could afford such a residence.

    And truthfully, he didn''t even need such arge house. Fortunately, it came with two maids, or else Sister Lan would''ve been worked to death just keeping it clean.

    "We greet the master and the mistress," said two maidens, still at the tender age of puberty, as they came forward to wee and bowed in respect.

    Chen Sansi waved his hand dismissively, "Mm, you two can go now. I''ll call on you if I need something."

    "Master..."

    The two maids exchanged a nce and timidly spoke, "You haven''t given us our names yet."

    "Names?"

    It was then that Chen Sansi remembered that after selling themselves into servitude, they no longer owned their names.

    He really wasn''t good at naming: "Sister Lan, I''ll leave it to you."

    "Alright, I''ll do it."

    Gu Xin took the hands of the two maids, gently inquired about their family backgrounds, ages, and talents, and finally named one Si Qin and the other Mo Hua.

    Both had been sold by their parents from a young age, specifically trained to be sold to wealthy households as maids, and they came at a steep price.

    "It seems I don''t have any silver to provide for the household!"

    It suddenly dawned on Chen Sansi.

    He had fought in battles for two months, without a single coin of silver on him.

    Luckily, he held the rank of a Sixth-rank Captain and additionally a Medal from the rank of fifth-rank cavalier, both of which came with stipends. He just wasn''t sure where to collect it and would have to ask aroundter.

    "Master!"

    Mo Hua rushed over, looking somewhat panicked, "There is an eunuch outside who says you''re needed to receive an imperial decree, and there are a lot of people."

    "An imperial decree?"

    A surge of unpleasant memories shed through Chen Sansi''s mind.

    But he had no grudges with the Emperor, so there was nothing to fear, and most likely, it was some kind of reward.

    Even if there was some bad news, he had to receive the decree; what choice did he have when his power was so weak?

    "Let''s go," said Chen Sansi as he walked out the door.

    He saw before the entrance to the residence, there were no less than a dozen carriages lined up ¡ª such a grand spectacle attracted hundreds of onlookers.

    At the front was a eunuch dressed in an exquisite python robe, with a jade belt at his waist, his face pale as paper, his expression somber and his breath steady and long. By his demeanor, he seemed to be trained in the martial arts as well.

    With a sharp and somewhat piercing voice, the eunuch proimed, "The imperial decree has arrived, Captain Chengxin Chen Sansi, receive the decree!"

    "Your servant hears and obeys!"

    Chen Sansi and his family knelt down.

    As usual, when one''s strength iscking, one must bow their heads, or else it''s as good as courting death.

    "By the mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees: Captain Chengxin Chen Sansi, who has led the people across the Hongze River Shore, has moved both Heaven and Earth. Having heard of it, I am moved to tears. To have such a courageous and benevolent General is indeed my great fortune, as well as the fortune of the Great Sheng Dynasty. Hence, you are promoted to the General of Martial Virtue of the fifth rank and exceptionally appointed as the Standard Third-rank Cavalry Commander in an honorary capacity, bestowed with a thousand taels of gold, fifty thousand taels of silver, a thousand rolls of silk, thirty Refining Organ Treasure Medicine, and a pot of Imperial Wine. Take heed of this decree!"

    "Your servant receives the decree and gratefully thanks the Heavenly Grace, long live the Emperor, long, long live the Emperor!"

    Chen Sansi had no choice but to express his gratitude with perfect propriety, bowing deeply in thanks.

    "Who is this person?"

    "The new neighbor."

    "Leading the people to cross the river?"

    "I''ve heard of this incident. It seems that during Yunzhou''s ten-day crisis, amander from a small county led tens of thousands of people in an escape. To help the people cross the river, he and his subordinates nearly lost their lives."

    "There''s actually an official willing to go to such lengths for themon people?"

    "The Emperor is indeed a sagacious and enlightened ruler!"

    "Exactly, otherwise he wouldn''t have bestowed so much. With the gold, the silver, and a thousand rolls of silk, that''s enough for many people''s lifetimes of food and clothingbined."

    "So young and already awarded a third-rank medal; he''s eligible to attend court and see the Emperor."

    "This man is sure to be a great leader one day!"

    "..."

    The onlookers discussed among themselves.

    ''Damn it, that old Emperor sure knows how to take advantage of my situation!'' cursed Chen Sansi internally.

    The old Emperor conspired with the enemy and betrayed the country, causing nearly a million civilians to be ughtered in Yunzhou over ten days. Now, by giving him this reward, he''s trying to garner a good reputation, the epitome of shamelessness.

    The gifts are too few!

    Give more, much more!

    Otherwise, it doesn''t make up for this kneel.

    "Mr. Chen, aren''t you inviting me inside to sit?" inquired the Chief Eunuch from above.

    Chen Sansi stood up: "Pleasee in, Eunuch. Mo Hua, go make some tea."

    "Master, we don''t have tea¡­" Mo Hua, who had never seen such a scene, was terrified on her first day ''at work'' facing an imperial decree, with talk of thousands in gold and tens of thousands in silver. It was too frightening, making her shiver all over.

    "Eunuch, I have just moved in, and the house is honestly quite empty."

    Chen Sansi exined, "It may be an imposition to ask you to drink in water."

    "Master, we don''t have in water either¡­" Si Qin timidly added, "We haven''t even bought firewood or tea sets for the house yet..."

    "Forget it then, I won''t go inside. Let''s talk here," the Great Eunuch stopped in front of the main hall and sighed, "My surname is Hou, and I''m the supervisor of the military in the Northwest Three States, overseeing all military affairs. You can simply call me Elder Hou."

    Chen Sansi inquired, "Is there anything Elder Hou needs?"

    Supervisor.

    The supervisor was naturally Sun Xiangzong; it must be that this person also holds a high position in the pce.

    "You were just granted the fifth-rank title of Flying Cavalry Commander, and now so soon you''ve been further awarded the third-rank title of Light Chariot Commander, far exceeding the medal you should have for your refining organs cultivation."

    Mr. Hou emphasized with a drag, "Mr. Chen, do you understand the implication of this?"@@novelbin@@

    "The heavenly grace of His Majesty, this general will surely hold firmly in his heart, and will not forget it for a moment!"

    Chen Sansi said word by word, "Not forget it for a moment!"

    "Good, you are indeed clever!"

    Mr. Hou waved his hand, signaling his subordinate eunuchs to bring up the imperial wine, "Mr. Chen, do not let down the holy intent."

    [Green Blood Poison Dew Antidote]

    Chen Sansi picked up the imperial wine and drank it all in one gulp.

    Constant poisoning was no solution.

    Because over time, the poison would certainly re up, and it wouldn''t do to have slow-acting poison, periodically bestowing some food and drink as gifts. Even a fool would find it odd, and it would only increase the distance between monarch and subject.

    Better to give the antidote and then bestow great rewards, which could win people''s hearts.

    If it weren''t for Chen Sansi''s prior knowledge of the poison through [Recognize Medicine], and the serendipitous understanding of Yunzhou''s inside story, he might have really thought this was a benevolent and wise monarch, and hence felt grateful and esteemed.

    The means of an emperor to rule over his subjects!

    "Good."

    Mr. Hou watched him drink the wine and smiled, "Mr. Chen, you will next stay at the Governor Mansion''s Selected Point, so..."

    "Rest assured, Mr. Hou."

    Chen Sansi replied promptly, "As a servant, no matter where I am, I will always remember that I am a subject of the Great Sheng Dynasty, a subject of His Majesty."

    "You are a smart one, I like you! Alright, since there''s no tea or refreshments, I will take my leave now."

    Mr. Hou left, satisfied.

    The others helped move things into the Chen Mansion and then dared to depart.

    As the gates were closed,

    Chen Sansi immediately took out the refining organ treasure medicine and began to practice.

    Thousands of gold and silver coins, plus a thousand rolls of silk, would indeed suffice for some time.

    But what was really valuable was the treasure medicine!

    After reaching above the refining organs stage, the required medicines could basically no longer be gauged by money.

    The truly precious ingredients were invaluable; after all, they demanded extremely harsh requirements for age and growth environment, which is why even Po Yang County was at its resource limit when it came to refining organs.

    Even in the Eight Camps, treasure medicines were not avable to just anyone who wished for them.

    Because the Eight Camps were constantly relocating, they had no fixed assets of their own, and military supplies also required court allocated funds and local support to maintain.

    "Fortunately, I won''t becking for the time being."

    After Chen Sansi verified that the treasure medicine was fine, he swallowed it, and under the powerful force of the medicine, he practiced his spear technique.

    Thirty pieces of treasure medicine, enough to support him until Hua Jin!

    Thebined value, how could it be just thousands of gold?

    [Cultivation Technique: Unity Spear Technique (Mastered)]

    [Progress: 288/1000]

    With the addition of Spiritual Grain, the efficiency of skill improvement was astonishing!

    Logically, after entering the Refining Internal Organs stage, the speed of cultivation progress was bound to slow down.

    But he was confident that, within one month, he could break through to refining organs small achievement.

    Chen Sansi had originally nned to enter seclusion.

    But the very next day, his residence became bustling.

    Invitations, from schrs, aristocratic families, sects, to officials big and small, a massive amount of invitations were sent to Chen Mansion. Suddenly, the doorstep was as busy as a marketce, with an endless stream of visitorsing and going.

    With such a grand disy of imperial reward, even though it wasn''t in the Capital City, it indicated a promising future. It was normal that people wanted to make connections.

    Chen Sansi did not refuse them.

    The resources needed for future practice would increase, and one couldn''t guarantee when they might be needed from a family.

    It was just that for the time being, he really couldn''t amodate them all.

    "Shanshi!"

    That afternoon, after Chen Sansi had eaten and was practicing spear in the courtyard,

    Sun Buqi knocked on his door, "Come on, I''m here on their behalf to invite you to the banquet, the Selected Point''s banquet, you must go."

    "Selected Point''s banquet?"

    Chen Sansi took the opportunity to ask, "By the way, could you tell me about the specific processes involved with Selected Point?"

    Soon, with Sun Buqi''s exnation, he roughly understood the process.

    Selected Point was divided into two main categories: Reserve Military Officer and Reserve Generals.

    Those who participated in Selected Point were subject to age restrictions.

    Within the age limit, anyone above refining organs cultivation could participate in the Reserve Generals'' selection.

    Additionally, each Selected Point would ept eight Inner Sect Disciples, but there was only one True Inheritor!

    There were five parts to the assessment.

    One, formation setting.

    Two, formation breaking.

    Three, battle deployment, that is realbat.

    Four, martial artspetition.

    Five, root bone, to judge the upper limit and then decide how many resources to allocate based on that limit.

    The series of assessments was basically equivalent to another martial arts examination process.

    The difference was that after passing the assessment, one would directly stay in the Eight Camps and be taught martial arts by Sun Xiangzong.

    "Shanshi, this year is the toughest one."

    Sun Buqi sighed, "Last time, the ones you saw like Yin Hanwen, Cao Fan, and even Elder Yan''s grandson are here, along with the Young Sect Master from the Sky-reaching Sword Sect in Liangzhou, disciples from the Moon Splitting Mountain Vi, and so on...

    "Most of them have reached Refining Internal Organs Perfection!

    "And because everyone arrived particrly early this year, the Selected Point will officially start in ten days!

    "Shanshi, you''ve just mastered your refining organs skill, haven''t you?

    "These opponents are not like the previous ones. Each and every one of them has a special physique. Anywhere in the Jianghu, they could be undefeated at the same stage. It won''t be easy for you to win against them across cultivation levels."

    To Chen Sansi,

    All these could wait tillter.

    What mattered to him was that there was only one True Inheritor!

    Not only was he thest batch of Selected Point disciples, but also thest True Inheritor. Needless to say, what that implied.

    Continue reading at empire

    Immortal Law.

    Only by bing the only true inheritor would there possibly be a chance to touch upon the ways to break through above Martial Saint!

 Chapter 117 Paying Respects at the Dock

    "If that''s the case,"

    "I really must secure the first ce."

    Chen Sansi was aware that the people from the famous families across the whole world definitely were not the same as those from a poor and remote ce like Po Yang County.

    Take the Blood Refining Realm for instance.

    In Po Yang County, most people only reach a rge'' level.

    He, on the other hand, had his power flowing through his entire body. How could it be the same?

    Whether it''s the royal family or any noble family, no matter how inferior, they wouldn''tck much, their resources were absolutely sufficient, not to mention, their talents were not poor either.

    At least one parent in each noble family was a high-realm martial artist, plus with wealthy people having many descendants, each generation could generally produce at least one fairly talented individual, and if lucky, even a genius.

    Challenging across realms was certainly difficult.

    Moreover, for those in the Refining Internal Realm, martial artists could experience a special state called "Blood Burst" which immensely amplified their abilities. Even transcending one realm might not guarantee a win, let alone he had only achieved a small achievement in his cultivation technique.

    It was just that time was tight.

    Once the war broke out, all the Selection Officers from across the country were summoned in advance, causing the selection to be held much earlier.

    For him to reach a small achievement in refining internal organs, it would take at least twenty days at the fastest.

    Unless he could secure more beast meat, particrly Exotic Beast Meat, and find someone to train with him day and night without stopping, maybe he could speed up the process a bit.

    "Oh well, let''s go and see first."

    Chen Sansi, along with Sun Buqi, embarked in a carriage.

    It was his first time entering the city from the county, and he couldn''t help but lift the curtain to enjoy the street views. When they passed through the bustling market area, he used his keen eyes to spot a few notices.

    Among them, two in particr caught his attention.

    A wanted order from the Witch God Sect, and a eulogy of his leading people across the river.

    Chen Sansi inquired, "Is the Witch God Sect also in Liangzhou City?"

    "Of course, it is."

    Sun Buqi leaned back in his seat, munching on some unknown fruit, and said, "The Witch God Sect has been causing chaos for more than just a day or two. They have a presence practically all over the world, and not all of them are Barbarians. They have many followers even in the Central ins, hard to distinguish from their appearance. Lurking in the darkness, they disrupt the peace and stir up trouble everywhere.

    "Just like in Seven Absolute Sect of Dongyi City, in my opinion, eight or nine out of ten, it''s their instigation."

    "Hmm."

    Chen Sansi had long heard of the Witch God Sect causing chaos everywhere. Po Yang County was unaffected before the Immortal Treasure incident because it was too insignificant.

    The ce was too small with not enough strategic value, that even the Witch God Sect couldn''t be bothered toe.

    "And furthermore,"

    Sun Buqi sat upright, seriously stating, "The followers in Liangzhou City specifically target martial artists. Initially, they killed those of lower realms more often, butter they even took down those in higher realms. It''s said during the frontline warfare, even the top disciple of Moon Splitting Mountain Vi was killed."

    "Killing martial artists?"

    Chen Sansi contemted internally.

    The Witch God Sect, while using millions of citizens for a blood sacrifice, dared to kill martial artists; the objects in their hands seemed less like treasures of immortals and more like demonic items, all needing human lives as fuel.

    "But don''t worry,"

    Sun Buqi added, "Most of those who died were disciples of sects and people from the Jianghu. They rarely dare to attack people from the Eight Camps, and after the war ends, my father really ns to investigate this thoroughly."

    Initially in Po Yang County, various martial arts halls capturedmon folks daily to test medicines.

    Now in Liangzhou, the sects were the targets persecuted by the Witch God Sect.

    "The matter of Amugu''s disappearance¡­"

    Just mentioning the Witch God Sect made Chen Sansi involuntarily think of this expert of the Meridian Passage Realm.

    He was somewhat worried. Although he had imed in front of five thousand cavalrymen that Amugu was killed by Sun Xiangzong and due to some misunderstandings, the supervisor did actually make an appearance afterward, but there were still gaps in the story.

    If Sun Xiangzong had arrived at the scene earlier, there would have been no need for their roadblock which resulted in heavy casualties.

    Fortunately, even if the Witch God Sect suspected him, they wouldn''t share that information with the Sheng Dynasty.

    If the old Emperor got his hands on the Immortal Treasure, he wouldn''t return it to the Barbarians; they could only investigate secretly.

    Next, he just needed to be more cautious.

    Moreover, if there truly were other assants, Chen Sansi, while ensuring his own safety, would try to capture a living person to interrogate thoroughly about the Immortal Treasure, to see if it matched his spections.

    "Sansi,"@@novelbin@@

    Sun Buqi interrupted his train of thought, "His Majesty has dered your merits to the whole world; today, quite a few people will probably seek to make your acquaintance."

    "Hmm."

    Chen Sansi nodded.

    The banquet venue called the "Immortal Crane Tower" could be considered the Eight Treasures Building of Liangzhou City, but since it was a state city, the level of luxury there naturally couldn''t bepared to a small county town.

    Even so, today the Immortal Crane Tower was still reserved entirely.

    The entire street was filled with all kinds of luxurious carriages, showing the high status of the attendees at this event.

    "Ahem!"

    Sun Buqi cleared his throat, "Sansi, let me break it down for you, the people here today roughly belong to three camps.

    "The first is the Emperor''s people.

    "The second, the people of the Crown Prince.

    "The third, people from famous families. Within the famous families, they are further divided ording to whom they affiliate with."

    This was no ordinary banquet, but aplex web of politicalworking.

    "You can actually discern all this."

    Chen Sansi admired, noting that birth indeed determined perspective and insight.

    He indeed needed Sun Buqi beside him, otherwise, if he went in alone, he would be utterly blind, not recognizing anyone or knowing how to react.

    "People from sects can also participate in the Selection?"

    Chen Sansi asked.

    "Of course they can."

    Sun Buqi responded, "Thends, medicine gardens, and even mountains in various ces arergely upied by the sects and noble families, so any military needs must rely on them for support. Correspondingly, it''s natural to provide them with opportunities."

    Land consolidation and ss solidification were not phenomena exclusive to Po Yang County.

    The whole Great Sheng Dynasty was the same.

    To make the sects cooperate sincerely, it was necessary to provide opportunities. Once in power, their status became even more secure, and this cycle could continue indefinitely without limits; the sects would be like local emperors.

    Chen Sansi couldn''t help recalling, in his previous life when he read historical tales, the Emperor who founded the Eastern Han, the "Child of the ne" Liu Xiu, had managed significant feats with the support of the noble families of Central ins, much like Cao Xie initially.

    During their conversation, the two walked into the Immortal Crane Tower.

    Upon entering, there was no noise, only the sound of quiet conversations and faintly ying music, with prominent officialsing and going. Not one was amoner.

    Even among the Selected des, only a few who had achieved at least small sess in Refining Internal Organs were present at the banquet.

    There were acquaintances.

    Cao Fan, Yin Hanwen.

    "Congrattions to the Princely Heir and Mr. Yin for your great achievements in Yunzhou!"

    "..."

    "..."

    "Has Brother Bu Qi arrived?"

    "Brother Bu Qi, long time no see!"

    Many people came up to Sun Buqi withpliments, "This person beside you, must be Mr. Chen, right?"

    "Oh, leading people across the river, known throughout the world!"

    "Mr. Chen is so young yet has already caught the Emperor''s favor. You will definitely rise rapidly!"

    "..."

    Soon, arge circle had formed around Chen Sansi.

    Most of them were young offspring of officials.

    Sun Buqi introduced, "This is Lu Shuhua, the Young Sect Master of the Sky-reaching Sword Sect, and this is Chu Tianshu of the Lingxu Sect. This Immortal Crane Tower belongs to Brother Chu."

    "Brother Lu, Brother Chu."

    Chen Sansi responded one by one, neither overly humble nor arrogant, feeling no need to ingratiate himself with others, nor offend anyone.

    "Lu Shuhua is one of your strongpetitors, born with the Sword Heart Body, already perfected in Refining Internal Organs, with superb swordsmanship and formidable strength."

    Sun Buqi pointed to a distant ce where Zongmen disciples stood with Cao Fan, and whispered, "That''s Wen Qiushi from the Moon Splitting Mountain Vi standing over there, he has always been ingratiating himself with the Princely Heir, and those others too."

    In fact.

    Looking around inside and outside the Immortal Crane Tower, it was indeed the group around Cao Fan that was thergest, each of them exceedingly respectful towards him.

    The first thing everyone did upon entering was to offer him a toast, and then they mingled and made connections with others.

    "Sigh~"

    Sun Buqi sighed and said, "Now with both the governorship and military supervision secured by the eunuchs, two of the eight camps belong to the Crown Prince''s men. They see that my father is about to retire from the battlefield, and they''ve started treating us coldly so early!"

    Retire from the battlefield?

    Chen Sansi thought it probably wasn''t that simple.

    The scene before him increasingly resembled his earlier conjecture: Supervisor Sun won''t live much longer.

    These people were here to divide up the influence of the Eight Camps.

    Enjoy more content from empire

    Supervisor Sun probably allowed this to unfold because he was somehow trying to secure a retreat for his two remaining children.

    Because¡­

    Chen Sansi hadn''t heard of any other True Disciple who had broken through to a level Above Martial Saint capable of protecting Supervisor Sun''s family.

    "..."

    "Hypocrite!"

    Yin Hanwen angrily eximed, "Princely Heir, that man is utterly deceitful! Why did he insist on staying behind to help the civilians cross the river during the battle, if not to gain a reputation through these means? And our Holy Emperor, benevolent as he is, was actually deceived by him."

    "Yes, Princely Heir."

    Wen Qiushi chimed in, "He didn''t evene over to offer you a toast. He received a third-rank title and now thinks too highly of himself?"

    Cao Fan, holding a wine cup, slowly said, "Not only the Grand Emperor, but even my father thinks highly of him, hoping that I could make connections with him. It''s really troubling - I don''t see what a country Refiner, even with the Nine Dragon Body, can do."

    "Yes, Princely Heir, you have the Dragon Heart Tiger Bone, a bodily vessel of an Innate Martial Saint."

    Yin Hanwen expressed his admiration, "In this Selected de, no one poses a threat to you."

    "Yes, naturally."

    Cao Fan spoke calmly, "Father is probably not worried about that. He likely wants to recruit him for our use."

    "I''ll get him toe over and offer a toast to the Princely Heir!"

    Wen Qiushi said and was about to go over, but the other party took the initiative toe forward.

    "Greetings to the Princely Heir."

    Chen Sansi first saluted, then offered a toast.

    He hadn''t forgotten the disdain and arrogance the other party had shown at the banks of the Hongze River, refusing to even let him speak, instantly branding him as a deserter.

    However, it was better not to burn bridges in such gatherings, as even if there were minor conflictster, they wouldn''t easily be suspected.

    Cao Feng''s smile was somewhat mocking, "Brother Chen, isn''t this toast a bitte?"

    "Princely Heir, please don''t me me. It''s my first time at such a grand event, and I may have been inadvertently discourteous. I''ll punish myself with three cups."

    Saying this, Chen Sansi downed three cups in session.

    "Impressive tolerance."

    Only then did Cao Fan appear satisfied.

    Not all present were children of wealth and power; some were talented individuals from lesser ces and impoverished backgrounds.

    In previous Selected de events, this gathering would really just have been about making connections.

    But since it was Sun Xiangzong''sst time and even the Crown Prince''s son was involved, the situation became moreplex - turning into a politicalworking event and an opportunity to choose allegiances.

    Governor Mansion, Crown Prince, and the Yan Party.

    Grandson of Elder Yan was also present.

    There were three docks to choose from, depending on their own choices.

    Because of Supervisor Sun''s esteemed reputation, half still chose to ally with the Governor Mansion''s dock.

    The rest, sensing the delicate situation, either chose Cao Fan or Elder Yan''s grandson.

    Knowing who would be participating in the Selected de, Chen Sansi no longer felt inclined to stay. No matter what, he would try topete for the first ce¡ªcourting factions was pointless.

    He put down his wine cup, ready to leave with Sun Buqi, when suddenly someone with a resonant and powerful voice holding a wine cup approached, echoing through the hall,

    "I am Bai Thingzhi from Guangling County, long have I admired General Chen''s great reputation!

    "General Chen leading people across the river, shook the heavens and moved the Earth, truly a role model for us martial artists and military men!

    "Here''s to you!"

 Chapter 118 Selected Point Begins (Long Chapter)

    This person''s voice was extremely loud.

    So much so that almost everyone turned their heads to look.

    Bai Tingzhi stood rigidly in ce, looking straight ahead without a sideways nce, waiting for the other party to respond.@@novelbin@@

    "Where did this mane from, and why does he have no sense of decorum?"

    "Judging by his attire, he''s from the countryside..."

    "After he entered, he should have first proposed a toast to the Princely Heir and others. To seek an association with Mr. Chen, he should''ve done so quietly and privately. Shouting out loud like this is the equivalent of..."

    Paying tribute!

    However, the problem is, Chen Sansi was a neer, his cultivation level wasn''t high and hecked significant backing, and therefore had no right to open his own port of call.

    "Wait a minute."

    Wen Qiushi narrowed his eyes and demanded, "The Princely Heir is standing before you, and you do not offer him a toast first?"

    "The Princely Heir?"

    Bai Tingzhi said bluntly, "I do not recognize the Princely Heir, I only recognize General Chen!"

    Now that Chen Sansi had been titled a fifth-rank General of Martial Virtue, he truly was an authentic general.

    "What an idiot!"

    Yin Hanwen said angrily, "Even your Mr. Chen has to offer a toast to the Princely Heir first. Do you even understand the rules?!"

    "Brother Bai, quickly offer a toast to the Princely Heir."

    Chen Sansi, overwhelmed by the sudden situation, almost didn''t react in time: "Don''t just stand there."

    He saw at a nce that this young man was a blockhead who entirelycked an understanding of the rules.

    This had offended the already proud Princely Heir.

    "You are the Princely Heir? General Chen tells me to offer you a toast!"

    Stay connected through empire

    Bai Tingzhi once again shocked everyone, "Cheers!"

    ''How could this man be as dim-witted as Zhu Tong?''

    Chen Sansi couldn''t bear to watch.

    Cao Fan, his lips twitching with anger, narrowed his eyes: "What stray dog thinks he''s worthy of drinking with me, the Princely Heir?"

    "If you don''t want to drink, then don''t drink. Why insult someone?"

    Bai Tingzhi stared back fiercely, "You want to fight?"

    "Get out!"

    Another young master in brocade clothing approached, it was none other than the grandson of the current Chief Minister, Yan Liang, named Yan Changqing. With a cupped-fist salute, he said, "Princely Heir, this person is obviously a country bumpkin who doesn''t understand decorum. Why lower yourself to his level?"

    At Chen Sansi''s hinting nces, Bai Tingzhi finally took his leave with a cupped-fist salute.

    "Yan Changqing, is it your turn to speak?"

    Cao Fan was unabashedly hostile, "What kind of guts do you have,ing to Liangzhou topete with me for the Selected Point?"

    "Thepetition for the Selected Point is a fair one, and moreover, I am here by imperialmand,"

    Yan Changqing lowered his head, his words were respectful, yet his tone very calm, "Please do not take offense, Princely Heir."

    "Fine, we shall see what happens."

    Cao Fan sneered, looking at Chen Sansi, "Brother Chen, let me remind you, the Yan father and son are grasshoppers after the autumn, they won''t be jumping for long. Choose your side wisely or you''ll regret it toote."

    Sure enough, he was already considering him a member of the Yan Party.

    In fact, even if Yan Changqing hadn''t stepped forward to help, it was still impossible to avoid this association.

    Courtly conflicts wereplex.

    The most obvious were the Yan Party and the Gao Faction.

    One could not discuss such things openly.

    But everyone in the court basically understood that behind the two factions stood the Emperor and the Crown Prince, respectively.

    Having just received the imperial decree, Chen Sansi naturally appeared to be one of the Emperor''s men, thus closer to the Yan Party.

    Even if he was a thousand times unwilling, he had no choice but to get entangled in the factional struggles.

    Such is the unavoidable nature of serving as an official in the court.

    Luckily, he wasn''t in the Capital City, so at least he did not have to engage in daily political maneuvers. Otherwise, he would have to consider carefully which foot to step into the Imperial Pce with when attending court.

    Perhaps,

    it was the Emperor''s intention all along.

    To split his subordinates into groups for mutual checks and bnces, making it easier for the old Emperor to maintain control.

    "Mr. Chen, I was too preupied to greet you earlier, my apologies,"

    Yan Changqing, having sent off the Princely Heir, began speaking leisurely, "But in the future, you really must keep your men in line. It is fortunate that this was a private banquet, for if it were at the court..."

    "This person is not my man."

    Chen Sansi replied, "Nevertheless, I thank you, Young Master Yan."

    "You are too courteous, Mr. Chen."

    Yan Changqing approached, smiling, "We are both servants of His Majesty, and in the uingpetition, we must support and assist each other. If I manage to secure first ce and be the True Inheritor, you, Mr. Chen, will surely be one of mymanding generals."

    "Mr. Yan."

    Sun Buqi interjected, "Is there a possibility that Sansi himself might secure the True Inheritor''s position?"

    "Oh?"

    Yan Changqing curled his lips, "With no disrespect, it seems that Mr. Chen has only recently begun Refining Internal, right? The rest of us are at least at the small achievement stage, like me, just one step away from Hua Jin. Not to mention the final round of martial contests, I fear no matter what, that would be an insurmountable barrier."

    "As for me, even though I am nominally inferior to the Princely Heir, if I make a breakthrough to the Great Sess of Refining soon, I might still have a chance to defeat him."

    This one was also on the verge of achieving Great Sess in Refining Internal.

    Chen Sansi could not help but feel a sense of urgency.

    It seems that he would need to make a breakthrough to small sess soon, or else he truly wouldn''t stand much chance in securing a victory in thepetition.

    The feaststed into thete night.

    As expected, Chen Sansi left early.

    He inquired, "Bu Qi, I recall from records that there are many Exotic Beasts in the Luotian Mountain Range near Liang state, correct?"

    "Yes, I know of a ce,"

    Upon hearing about hunting, Sun Buqi''s expression turned excited, "Are you nning to hunt Exotic Beasts to enhance your cultivation?"

    Chen Sansi nodded in affirmation.

    Medicine had been stacked to the utmost.

    To increase his pace further, he could only turn to nourishing food.

    Exotic Beasts, like treasure medicines, were rare resources that one couldn''t buy with money.

    Typically, only martial artists would hunt them, and once they acquired them, they would consume them first. Only the unused parts might be sold off.

 Chapter 119 The Supervisor Gifts a Bow

    "Are you certain, all of them?"

    Fang Qingyun repeated the question.

    He had several exchanges and conversations with Mr. Xu recently and found him quite agreeable. Indeed, the man possessed considerable talent; it was only a pity that his background limited his perspective, requiring him to relearn much. Nevertheless, given time, Mr. Xu would undoubtedly aplish great things.

    Adding Tang Ruoshan to that, even if his meridians were damaged, he could still be of use, but as for the others, there was little understanding.

    "I am certain!"

    Chen Sansi''s voice boomed.

    Not far away, General Zhao of Liangzhou nced over and reminded kindly, "Young man, my soldiers from Liangzhou may notpare to the Eight Camps, but they are all battle-hardened."

    "Please excuse me, General Zhao."

    Chen Sansi bowed with his hands sped: "I was merely speaking out of habit about my formerrades."

    "There''s nothing to excuse,"

    General Zhao said indifferently, "I just don''t understand. Everyone else desperately selects the elite, yet you search for disadvantages. What''s the rationale? Even the simplest protective formation requires five hundred men. Do you have enough?"

    "Just enough."

    When Chen Sansi crossed the river, he had just over four hundred men and there was a group responsible for aiding the civilians crossing the river, adding up to just over five hundred, most of whom were now temporarily assigned as service soldiers in the Eight Camps.

    This was also in ordance with the rules.

    Which general did not have their trusted personal soldiers?

    Any Selected Spear General, if they had their subordinates, could pull them into battle.

    This could even better demonstrate the true level of their leadership.

    However, the Selected Spear Reserve Generals came from throughout the Great Sheng Dynasty''s capital and thirty-six states, a significant portion of them had never fought in wars and had no subordinates, while others were from too far away to call over.

    Therefore, for fairness in the assessment, those without their own troops could freely choose from the Liangzhou Guard Station.

    "General Fang."

    Chen Sansi continued, "In this selection, I n to use my original subordinates throughout. If their performance meets the mark, is it possible for them to stay in the Eight Camps, promoted to warriors?"

    "Of course."

    Fang Qingyun confirmed, "Their initial assignment to service duties was simply because I was unfamiliar with their specific qualities. If they truly can make it from beginning to end, it proves their quality is no issue, and naturally, they can be promoted to warriors."

    "Brother Chen, you''re being foolish!"

    Yan Changqing rushed over to intervene, "You absolutely mustn''t! How could you use the disbanded soldiers you brought from Po Yang County in the selection assessment? If the formation breaks, they''ll be eliminated in the first round and end up joining the Deputy General''s draft, which would make it hard for them to get amand position again!"

    Po Yang.

    A mere small county in the countryside.

    The quality of the garrison soldiers in the rural areas of the Great Sheng Dynasty was something everyone knew about, though they wouldn''t say out loud; it was crystal clear in their hearts.@@novelbin@@

    In many ces, up to half the payroll was fraudulent, and even arrows and weapons had been sold for money.

    It was only in recent years that Sun Xiangzong moved to Liangzhou and started rectifying the North, gradually reducing the fraudulent payrolls, but thebat effectiveness remained painfully low.

    "Brother Chen!"

    Yan Changqing whispered in his ear: "I know you are loyal, but even in consideration of your former subordinates, you should understand one thing: as long as your Selected Spears achieve a good ranking and you establish your standing in the Eight Camps, you can bring them up sooner orter."

    "Mr. Yan, you needn''t worry for me."

    Chen Sansi spoke frankly, "I use my old subordinates mainly to save the time needed for limation, and I have confidence in them."

    In fact, Po Yang County was one of the better ces. Xiang Tingchun harbored great ambitions and, since assuming the role of Households, had always strived to maintain rigorous military discipline despite the inherent corruption.

    It was not until a great battleter on that a significant change urred, forged by fire; those who survived now possessed some real capabilities.

    "Ah, this is realizing the advantages of a good reputation."

    On another side, Yin Hanwen intentionally spoke loudly, "To carry through with pretense as decency and righteousness, aren''t you afraid of ruining your own future?"

    "Can''t help it, hypocrites, they''re the best at winning people''s hearts!"

    Wen Qiushi chimed in, deliberately for everyone nearby to hear.

    "Actually, I think it''s not about pretense."

    Among the many Selected Spear Generals, there were also many who understood the reality.

    One rtively slim young man murmured softly, "That Mr. Chen, who risked his life to ferry the civilians across the river, how could he be pretending?"

    "Tang Yingke, whose side are you on?"

    Yin Hanwen stared at him, "Siding with them, have you gone mad?"

    Tang Yingke immediately shut his mouth.

    Since the Immortal Crane Tower, he had been following Cao Fan and several others, clearly also a young master from the capital.

    "He won''t say it, so I will!"

    Bai Thingzhi burst out swearing, "You all are hypocrites, yet can''t stand to see someone else being noble? What rubbish! And that Princely Heir, I heardst night that his troops were all transferred from the capital, why even botherpeting? Just let him win already."

    "Hiss, here we go again¡­"

    Chen Sansi really felt somewhat powerless, mouths were on other people''s faces, what could he do.

    Cao Fan''s people, all transferred from the capital?

    Obviously, regardless of the ce, absolute fairness was unachievable.

    Any reserve General from an impoverished background who couldmand the elite of Liangzhou was already considered fortunate.

    Moreover, deploying formations was only the first assessment; there were many more aspects toe.

    The one with the best overall score would be the True Inheritor.

    "You scoundrel, how dare you offend the Princely Heir?!"

    Yin Hanwen was livid, ready to draw his weapon on the spot.

    Princely Heir Cao Fan stopped him, not angry, but his voice was ice-cold, "You''re called Bai Tingzhi?"

    "I have not changed my name, nor have I changed my surname!"

    Bai Tingzhi stood straight.

    "A fine example of not changing one''s name or surname."

    Cao Fan turned his head to look at Chen and Yan, sinisterly said, "Bai Tingzhi, you really are a good dog that bites for its master. It''s a pity that your master isn''t me, and you''ve also chosen the wrong master. Do you think they can protect you?"

    "You don''t need to threaten me!"

    Bai Tingzhi said fearlessly, "If Your Highness wants to take action, you can do it now!"

    "Enough."

    Fang Qingyun slowly interjected to stop their argument, his voice still very light, yet it carried an inexplicable authority, "Settle any differences in thepetition arena. Anyone who dares to fight privately will be disqualified from the Selected Spear."

    The two then ceased.

    The Selected Spear Generals dispersed.

    Chen Sansi also met his subordinates he hadn''t seen for several days in the Martial Arts Arena temporarily assigned to him.

    As time had passed, naturally, these people had also improved in their realms.

    Zhu Tong and Wang Li had just recently begun their Bone Training.

    The rest had also each made progress.

    "Rest assured, sir!"

    Everyone was full of confidence, "In terms of cultivation, we might notpare, but when ites to setting up formations and coordinating, who can surpass us? Those standing here have all crawled out from piles of the dead!"

    "That''s right. No matter the formation, we can learn it the fastest."

    "..."

    Wang Zhi made a guarantee, "Sansi, just leave it to me and Xu Wencai. We won''t need nine days, in just five days we can train the Four Gate Base Formation so it''s ready for the battlefield."

    That was what was said.

    Of course, Chen Sansi still needed to stay personally and watch until the afternoon, confirming there were no problems before he took up a long spear and arrow and went up the mountain.

    In the meantime, he had also learned about Bai Tingzhi''s background.

    He was from You State''s Guangling County, his father was a Schr, and he himself loved Martial Arts. After voluntarily joining the army, he was discovered to be a genuine Vajra Body. He had also suffered oppression; people wanted to steal his Selected Spear slot and he killed them directly, offending many locals.

    Luckily, the Selection Officer arrived in Guangling and took him away so he could be unharmed.

    To this day, Bai Tingzhi was an entry-level practitioner of the refining organs skill.

    Absolute genius.

    His speed of cultivation was nearly as fast as Chen Sansi''s, it''s just that his interpersonal skills were somewhat reckless; as soon as he arrived, he offended many people, even if he didn''t want to recognize this subordinate, others probably would.

    This time going hunting in the mountains, Sun Buqi and Bai Tingzhi were both there.

    Sun Buqi held a bow, with a huge case on his back, not knowing what was inside.

    Using this chance, Chen Sansi just happened to break through his "Traceless Tracking" to see what effects it would have after reaching great sess, who could have thought that hunting skills could also be used in military warfare?

    "Qian Xun, you''re going too; what are you going to do while I hunt?"

    He looked at the approaching White Swan Horse, gently patting its head, "You just want to go out and y, don''t you? Go ahead, find me at the foothill of the Luotian Mountain Range before it gets dark."

    Qian Xun nodded his head, running off joyfully until it vanished without a trace.

    "Sansi."

    Sun Buqi, watching the horse fly off, "There is something off with your horse, it definitely qualifies as an Exotic Beast."

    Chen Sansi seized the opportunity to ask, "Are there such things as Exotic Beast Horses?"

    "Naturally, there are,"

    Sun Buqi nodded, "But they''re extremely rare, and their appearances are also different from ordinary horses. For example, my eldest senior brother''s Fire Horse, which has blood-red eyes and steams with heat all over its body when it runs, coupled with its all-red fur, looks just like it is on fire; hence its name.

    "Your white horse, on the other hand, looks nothing unusual at a nce, so how can it run so fast? It could well be some kind of mutant that you''vee across."

    Chen Sansi had always been curious.

    No matter how exceptional a treasure horse, traveling a thousand miles a day is the limit, needing who knows how long to rest before it recovers, and it might even die from exhaustion.

    But not Qian Xun.

    Since leaving Po Yang, going all the way to You State, it hasn''t stopped galloping at full speed, no matter how tired; it just needed to eat some fodder to recover.

    Moreover, as the Skill of Horse Control improved, Qian Xun''s speed continued to increase.

    If this continues, will it eventually start flying?

    Xiang Tingchun, at the beginning, did indeed give him a good mount.

    Now looking at it, the White Swan Horse was initially hard to tame and unwanted for a reason; its bloodline is different. Ordinary taming methods obviously did not work, initially, he struggled for a long time before he could subdue Qian Xun, spending more time than on Martial Arts training. Experience more tales on empire

    "We''ve arrived.

    "Through the forest ahead lies the First Layer Mountain of the Luotian Mountain Range.

    "The Luotian Mountain Range spans tens of thousands of miles,prising a total of sixty-sixyers. To find an Exotic Beast, you''d have to reach beyond the Seventh Layer Mountain. Even for us trained in Martial Arts, it would take over a day''s travel; we''ll definitely have to spend the night on the mountain."

    Sun Buqi was extremely excited, "When I left home, my father knew I was going mountain hunting with you. He not only did not scold me for not carrying out my duties but also told me to bring this over for you.

    "I was so happy I almost forgot about it!"

    As he spoke, he took off the wooden case from his back, ced it on the ground, and slowly opened it. Insidey arge bow that hadn''t been assembled yet but appeared to be quite old.

    But Chen Sansi could tell at a nce that the material was extraordinary, like the Exotic Beast, simply not avable in the market, and its draw weight, probably terrifyingly strong.

    "A bow my father used when he was young."

    Sun Buqi presented, "Fifty stones; try stringing it and see."

 Chapter 120 Qi Observation Skill

    "This bow''s frame is made from the rare bloodwood that''s a thousand years old, and the bowstring is crafted from a five-hundred-year-old exotic beast tendon mixed with other materials, both extremely hard to find in the marketce," he said.

    Fifty stone.

    In terms of pulling force, that''s just under ten thousand catties.

    For a Refining Organ Martial Artist, naturally, it would be possible to draw.

    Chen Sansi squatted down, assembled the archery equipment with his tools, and after adjusting it in his hand, even the grip, likely made of exotic beast skin, feltfortable to hold.

    When he was ready, he slowly drew the bowstring with the help of his Qi-Blood, aimed at a pine tree trunk about twenty centimeters in diameter two hundred steps away, and loosed an arrow.

    "Whizz¡ª"

    "Bang¡ª"@@novelbin@@

    The sound of the air tearing whistled past his ears, and in but a moment, it pierced through the first tree trunk, then the second, and finally, the arrow was caught by the third, leaving ring transparent holes in the first two pine trees.

    "What a shot!"

    The higher the pulling force of the bow, the greater its power, and the faster the speed of the arrow.

    This fifty-stone bow, even for a Refining Organ Martial Artist, definitely wouldn''t require as much time as when initially confronting Luo Dongquan and others; if the opponent didn''t close in swiftly, within fifteen arrows, they''d inevitably reveal a weakness!

    Fifteen arrows, for him, was merely five seconds!

    Chen Sansi was as thrilled as a swordsman who had obtained a peerless sword, much happier than if he''d obtained gold or silver treasures.

    He bowed with his fists and said, "Brother Bu Qi, please thank Lord Governor on my behalf."

    "Why be polite? After all, you did save his son and daughter," said Sun Buqi. "This is nothing. If it were up to me, he should''ve just made you his True Inheritor straight away, forget the selection. He''s just too rigid, unwilling to break the rules."

    "Bu Qi."

    Chen Sansi asked, "Can this bow release Hua Jin power?"

    "I don''t think so," replied Sun Buqi. "This bow seems to be one my father used many years ago when he was young. Later, he stopped using bows, so although it''s precious, it''s nothing too impressive. You should just ept it.

    "As for Hua Jin, I asked about it at home for you.

    "My father said that some special materials could temporarily store power, but those can''t be bought, you have to collect them yourself."

    Chen Sansi nodded, "Okay, I''ll make a note of that."

    That meant there was still hope.

    Of course, for now, this fifty-stone bow was more than sufficient.

    The matter of Hua Jin can wait until after mastering it.

    The most urgent task was to hurry and capture an exotic beast, to quickly enhance his cultivation.

    Chen Sansi wouldn''t assume that because he had saved the Governor''s children and earned their gratitude, he could just ck off and expect to win.

    Indeed.

    This connection would, of course, afford him some preferential treatment in the future.

    But whether or not he could be a True Inheritor still depended on his capabilities.

    If onecked the ability, even if taught, they might not necessarily be able to learn; one must first prove they''re qualified to have the chance to learn.

    "To the mountain!"

    With the fifty-stone Big Bow in hand, Chen Sansi was in high spirits.

    The Luotian Mountain Range stretched for tens of thousands of miles, and one could only appreciate its vastness upon entering it. Looking around, it seemed as though the mountains were endless, oneyer upon another, without a boundary in sight.

    Liangzhou had also seen snowfall, albeit just a light dusting, covering the forests with a thinyer, not enough to impede hunting in the mountains. However, the winter reduced the activity of animals outdoors.

    Although Chen Sansi could take his time searching, the Luotian Mountain Range was so vast, it begged the question of how long it would take to find anything.

    "General, please take this path!"

    Bai Thingzhi led the way in front.

    Chen Sansi and Sun Buqi followed.

    Along the way, he continued to hone his skills in tracking and concealing.

    It had to be said, the Luotian Mountain Range was indeed teeming with game.

    Practically every two li they walked, there was at least onerge animal.

    "There''s a poisonous beast!"

    Sun Buqi pointed at a pile of rocks a hundred paces away and shouted.

    Following the direction of his finger, they saw a wild wolf.

    This wolf, twice asrge as ordinary wolves, had eyes red as blood as if they might drip with blood at any moment, crouching and feeding on a recently dead deer.

    "Don''t move, nobody move!"

    Sun Buqi, wielding the Fifteen-stone Bow discarded by Chen Sansi, took his aim for a good dozen breaths full of confidence before releasing the bowstring, but the shot terribly missed, veering nearly ten paces from the target.

    Bai Thingzhi bluntly remarked, "Mr. Sun, that was pretty poor!"

    "Ow!"

    "Watch out, the beast ising!"

    Normally, onlyrge animals like tigers or bears would not flee at the sight of humans; others would definitely run away first.

    But this wolf, instead of fleeing, charged at them aggressively.

    "I got this!"

    Sun Buqi kept shooting arrows non-stop.

    When the wild wolf was only about twenty paces away, and he hadn''t hit with a single arrow, Bai Thingzhi was already prepared to draw the broadsword off his back and get ready for action.

    "Hit!"

    Sun Buqi, fueled by anger and embarrassment, picked up the long spear, executed the Flying Snake Formation technique, and stabbed the wolf through the heart, finally taking it down with a satisfied heart.

    He presented the carcass, "Chen San, look, this is a Poisonous Beast."

    Chen Sansi bent down to investigate.

    Apart from its size, the most distinctive feature of this wolf was its blood-red eyes. Other than that, he couldn''t find anything special.

    "Just look at the eyes," Bai Thingzhi said, taking over. "The difference between a poisonous beast and an exotic beast is in the eyes. All these poisonous beasts'' eyes are blood-red, and they even glow at night. Their meat can''t be eaten; it''s poisonous."

    "What causes this?"

 Chapter 121 Commanding Soldiers Breakthrough, How Can One Say There Are No Clothes

    "Is it over?"

    Just as Tang Yingke had in a Poisonous Beast with his sword, he saw the leader, an old ape, pierced by several arrows and copsing from the tree; the rest of the ordinary soldier apes were wiped outpletely, not a single one escaped.

    ''You''re lucky to be alive.''

    Chen Sansi watched the direction in which the Princely Heir and the others had left, his gaze cold as ice.

    Ever since arriving in Liangzhou, he had tried not to offend anyone, giving proper respect where due and offering toasts when appropriate, thoroughly abiding by the rules.

    But the trees want to stay quiet while the wind keeps blowing.

    He just wanted to test quietly, hoping to get a good ranking in Selected Point, but this group had toe looking just to make trouble for him.

    And some even harbored the intention of taking their lives.

    There really was no more patience left!

    It wasn''t just because of Bai Thingzhi.

    It was also because of Yan Changqing.

    In the court as an official, what mattered was taking sides. Even if he wished otherwise, he would inevitably be associated with the Yan Party to some degree and would naturally be targeted by the other faction.

    And the higher the office one holds, the more one has to show allegiance.

    Holding such an office is genuinely unfulfilling.

    That arrow Chen Sansi had just shot was loosed at random; it hit the target by the sound of it, but what a pity it didn''t hit a vital spot, leaving the bastard alive.

    Things hade to this point; there was no need to keep backing down anymore.

    After all, in the next Selected Point, offense would be given anyway; he certainly couldn''t abandon the chance for the Princely Heir''s True Inheritance just because he feared offending people.

    And this time, they had attacked first. With the rules of the Governor Mansion in ce, they could only pretend nothing happened outwardly. That arrow, no matter what, has been taken for free¡ªit would have been a waste not to shoot it.

    "Brother Tang?"

    Sun Buqi stabbed a soldier ape to death and looked at the newly joined young master: "What are you doing here?"

    "Nothing..."

    Tang Yingke sheathed his sword: "I came up to the mountain to hunt, heard some noise and came over to check it out. I saw you were being ambushed by Poisonous Beasts and wanted to help, but it seems you didn''t need me."

    He was somewhat regretful.

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    This young Mr. Chen''s archery was really somewhat exaggerated.

    He had taken out all those soldier apes so quickly and efficiently.

    If he had known, he wouldn''t havee out to get involved.

    "You came hunting alone?"

    Even Bai Thingzhi sensed something was not right: "That princely son or whatever, is he also following along? Is it him who''s set us up?!"

    As he spoke, he carried his knife to look around nearby but failed to find anyone.

    "No, no, no!"

    Tang Yingke hurriedly exined: "It has nothing to do with the Princely Heir and the others, I really dide up the mountain alone."

    "Brother Tang, what are you afraid of?"

    Sun Buqi said through clenched teeth: "I will talk to my father when I get back, to cancel their Selected Point qualifications!"

    "Bu Qi, you shouldn''t make false usations."

    Tang Yingke''s expression became serious, and he spoke loudly: "The Princely Heir and the others really aren''t here, I really was just passing by. Since you all are okay, I will take my leave first!"

    After saying that, he turned to leave, and when he passed by Chen Sansi, he stopped to give a fist salute, then quickly disappeared into the woods.

    "He''s the son of the Minister of Rites."

    Sun Buqi introduced: "Brother Tang is different from the Princely Heir and the others, he''s not a bad person; it''s just that being born in the Capital City, he couldn''t help but be influenced by them, or else his father would also be implicated."

    Chen Sansi naturally wouldn''t care about this.

    After all, he had stood up and offered them help.

    Not all children of government officials were of the same stripe.

    All these were just interludes.

    The main thing was that the goal of hunting Exotic Beasts was achieved.

    The Luotian Mountain Range did indeed have abundant resources. Just one day up the mountain and he effortlessly hunted an Exotic Beast, not like the resource-scarce Tiger Head Mountain where they had to stir up the whole city searching for a White Deer, nearly failing to find it with hundreds of people.

    It seemed he still couldn''t avoid heading up the mountains frequently in the near future.

    Consider it archery practice.

    [Skill: Archery (Great Sess)]

    [Progress: (750/2000)]

    After achieving great sess in Tracking and Concealment, the Qi Observation Skill that followed was beyond any earthly technique.

    What effects could it have after enhancing Archery to Great Sess and reaching the next breakthrough?

    Chen Sansi stood in a high spot, surveying the terrain, observing which mountain peak seemed more likely to be inhabited by Exotic Beasts, so as to narrow the search scope for his next trip to the mountains.

    Suddenly.

    He saw a surge of dense ck Qi billowing and raging in the deepest part of the mountain range, as if a ck sea was hidden deep in the mountain.

    Before Chen Sansi had a chance to take a closer look, the ck Qi disappeared without a trace, and he couldn''t tell if it really vanished or if it was just too far away to see.

    After all, his Qi Observation Skill only had a range of about two hundred steps, and the direction from which the ck Qi emerged was likely the deepest and core area of the Luotian Mountain Range.

    "Shanshi, that ce is off-limits."

    Sun Buqi emphasized: "Beyond Thirty Layers of Mountains, it''s the most dangerous ce in the whole Luotian Mountain Range. It''s almost entirely filled with Poisonous Beasts, and some are even more terrifying than martial artists in the Profound Image Realm, nearly like the mythical creatures from legends!"

    Chen Sansi remembered hearing about a giant python that was hundreds of zhang long.

    Could it be that the ck Qi was emitted by the python?

    Unlikely.

    That ck Qi clearly seemed to emanate from the earth.

    The ck Qi and the blood Qi from the Poisonous Beasts seemed somewhat simr, but it was obviously much more powerful¡ªinparison, the blood Qi seemed like a diluted version of the ck Qi.

    Could the emergence of numerous Poisonous Beasts in the Luotian Mountain Range over thest twenty years be a result of being influenced by the ck Qi?

    "There are such formidable Poisonous Beasts?"

    Bai Thingzhi found it hard to believe.

    After all, the Xuanxiang Realm was just a step away from Martial Saint, basically considered elitebat power among humans.

    "There might be even more powerful ones,"

    Sun Buqi said seriously, "It''s best not to rush into the Xuanxiang Realm. Besides, there are not many Exotic Beasts inside; mostly there are Poisonous Beasts, from which you can''t gain any benefits."

    It was certainly too peculiar.

    Chen Sansi fell into deep thought.

    It seemed the Emperor Longqing''s order to nt Spiritual Grain throughout the country was a matter of thest twenty years or so.

    Could there be some connection?

    Otherwise, why hadn''t there been talk of "tribute" before?

    Considering the increasing number of Martial Saints and the emergence of existences above Martial Saints.

    It sounded like the entire world was undergoing changes. Simply put, their cultivation was too low-grade; they weren''t on a level that would affect them personally, so they werepletely unaware.

    When all is said and done, still too weak!

    If he were an existence above Martial Saints, he''d be qualified to pursue such Immortal Traces. For now, it was best to focus on cultivating, sort out the Selected Point matters, and not be overly ambitious.

    "Let''s go down the mountain,"

    Chen Sansi came down from the mountain peak, picked up the Saber-Toothed Tiger, and led the two others back through the night. When he asked if they wanted to share some of the meat, they both refused outright.

    "General, how could I have the face to ept?"

    Bai Thingzhi said with guilt, "Even though I led the way, in the end, it was Mr. Chen who found the cave and personally shot the beast. I hardly provided any help. Besides, about the matter with the soldier-monkey, it was I who implicated Mr. Chen. If Mr. Chen insists on giving me part of the tiger meat, I''d rather die from a head injury!"

    "I''ve got even less to say,"

    Sun Buqi stated, "The Saber-Toothed Tiger is a supplement for Refining Organ Martial Artists, and I only excel in Bone Strengthening Skill, so it''s useless in my hands."

    "Alright then,"

    Chen Sansi didn''t insist unnecessarily.

    He indeed needed the tiger meat to enhance his cultivation.

    The group elerated their pace and emerged from the Luotian Mountain Range after daybreak.

    Qian Xun was already waiting for a long time.

    Chen Sansi carried the Saber-Toothed Tiger, mounted his horse, and returned to the estate ahead of schedule.

    Si Qin and Mo Hua had gotten up early to work. When they came out to open the door, they were frightened by the huge bloodied beast with protruding fangs like swords, scampering to hide far away.

    In the courtyard, Chen Sansi dissected the Saber-Toothed Tiger with his Zhen Yue Sword. Just the heart alone was enough for two or three meals, not to mention the other highly nutritious parts. For the next half a month, he wouldn''t have to worry at all.

    After eating the half-cooked tiger heart boiled in water, he suddenly felt a strong killing intent rising in his heart. Along with the Refining Organ Treasure Medicine and Spiritual Grain, the potent effects of these three elements intertwined within his body, making it feel like it was about to burst open. It was only when he took up his reed long spear and practiced his spear technique that he gradually felt more at ease.

    Once he started practicing, he lost track of day and night, tirelessly continuing.

    For eight consecutive days,

    Chen Sansi spent every morning training battle formations in the military camp, practicing martial arts from the afternoon into thete night. Sleeping no more than two hours a day, eating hastily with a few bites of Saber-Toothed Tiger meat. As long as training didn''t kill him, he pushed himself to the limit.

    With the skill of Qi Observation,

    he could see that during his practice, he continually absorbed the chaotic energy of the world. All kinds of energies were involved, except for the sky-blue energy from within Exotic Beasts.

    Moreover, he couldn''t control what kind of energy he absorbed, it was more of an indiscriminate collection.

    [Cultivation Technique: Unity Spear Technique (Expert)]

    [Progress: 910/1000]

    "Just a little bit left!"

    "As soon as daylight breaks, the Selected Point examination will officially begin."

    "Luckily, the first day doesn''t requirebat. By tomorrow or the day after, I''ll surely break through to small achievement."

    "..."

    [Skill: Commanding Soldiers (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 0/2000]

    [Utility: Mainstay, Training Soldiers Skillfully, How Can It Be Said I Have No Clothes]

    [How Can It Be Said I Have No Clothes: On the battlefield, soldiers share a life-and-death unity; morale greatly increases, formations are executed to their ultimate potential, overallbat power increases by more than thirty percent]

    Unity in life and death!

    Combat power increases by thirty percent.

    Don''t underestimate thirty percent; it couldpensate for a disparity in realms to some extent. On the actual battlefield, the effects would likely be shockingly significant, not to mention that his troops could hold formation till death.

    Chen Sansi was fully confident about the first battle formation assessment.

    No matter how thepetition went, he definitely wouldn''t be eliminated. Even if he didn''t secure the Champion Leader position, he would at least be ss A!

    "Old Xu has improved again!"

    Chen Sansi marveled.

    Even just leaving things as they were, proficiency was rapidly improvingtely.

    All thanks to Xu Wencai.

    He heard that the old schr had been working tirelessly for the assessmentstely.@@novelbin@@

    Who would have thought he''d discover such talent in Po Yang County?

    Leaving aside other uses, the fact that idle proficiency could enhance his skill inmanding soldiers made it iparable to others.

    "Brother Shi,"

    Gu Xin personally dressed him, then along with Si Qin and Mo Hua, they saw him off, almost as if they were family seeing off someone to a college entrance examination.

    In fact, the Selected Point was akin to martial examination.

    After five days of assessments, it would determine how many resources each person could receive, how fast one will be promoted, and most importantly, whether one will secure the top position and be the final True Disciple of Sun Xiangzong.

    Once outside the Chen Mansion,

    Chen Sansi whistled, and Qian Xun arrived in response. He mounted his horse and galloped straight to the Eight Camps.

 Chapter 122 The Life and Death of the World Rests on One Person

    In recent days, the city has been under martialw, with wanted posters stered everywhere.

    It is said that many High Realm Martial Artists from the sects have died.

    Overnight, Tongxuan Sect and Luoxia Manor of Liangzhou''s seven major sects each lost five or six True Disciples, in addition to several dozen Inner Sect Disciples, including one talented individual with the Bear Gang''s mighty physique. With such amotion, astonishingly, not a single eyewitness hase forward.

    After their deaths, each of their Heart Blood was taken, naturally leading to the assumption that it was the work of the Witch God Sect.

    "That shouldn''t be the case,"

    Chen Sansi was puzzled.

    To invade the depths of two sects at the same time and kill so many indicates that the Witch God Sect must be a group, not an individual. But this is Liangzhou¡ªhome to the Eight Camps and Sun Xiangzong.

    For arge number of Witch God Sect Followers to hide, there must be a haven for them; it''s impossible that they could be forever elusive.

    Even Xiang Tingchun was able to find clues from the Golden Bell Temple previously.

    It doesn''t make sense.

    Unless the Witch God Sect has some special method.

    Chen Sansi wasn''t just specting aimlessly.

    Once he took up his post at the Eight Camps, he was highly likely to participate in hunting down the Witch God Sect.

    And he was eager to learn from the higher-ranking Witch God Sect Followers about the whereabouts of the "Immortal Treasure" equipment, as well as the purpose of the previous Blood Sacrifice, and of what use it was to kill Martial Artists?

    The ck qi in the mountains...

    Could it be rted to the Witch God Sect?

    "Sigh!"

    Lost in thoughts, Chen Sansi reached the entrance of the garrisoned inner city and dismounted his horse.

    Qian Xun went off to y on his own steed.

    Just like a house dog let loose outside that reliably returns home for meals, except that he could be called back at any moment, ensuring there was always a horse to ride when needed.

    Within the military city, at the Martial Arts Arena.@@novelbin@@

    The Selected Spear Generals had mostly arrived.

    Including Cao Fan, Yin Hanwen, and others.

    However, Fang Qingyun announced that Yin Hanwen had given up on the Selected Point examination and forfeited by default.

    "Brother Yin!"

    Chen Sansi pped Yin Hanwen''s shoulder, "Why did you withdraw from the examination?"

    "Ah¡ª"

    Yin Hanwen screamed in agony, his face contorting, almost copsing to the ground.

    "Mr. Chen, what are you doing?!"

    Wen Qiushi was furious, rushing forward to support him.

    "Ah?"

    Chen Sansi looked surprised, "I''m truly sorry, I was not aware that Brother Yin was injured. No wonder you gave up the Selected Point. What happened, could it have been the work of the Witch God Sect Followers?"

    Yin Hanwen, sweating from the pain, said through gritted teeth, "Exactly, on my way back from the tavern to my residence a few days ago, I encountered a group of Witch God Sect Followers and got stabbed by a sword. Unfortunately, I couldn''t stop them."

    "So Brother Yin, you are the only eyewitness!"

    Chen Sansi asked, "Did you see where they went? The entire city is hunting for the Witch God Sect now. If they can be found, it would be a great aplishment."

    "Haha, no such luck,"

    Yin Hanwen said cynically, "Their Qinggong was exceptional. They disappeared in the blink of an eye, and I couldn''t catch up with them."

    "So it is. Brother Yin, take good care of your injuries,"

    Chen Sansi bowed and turned to leave.

    Your next chapter awaits on empire

    It seemed that Yin Hanwen was the one he had hit.

    With a transparent hole through his shoulder, and even a piece of bone missing, it would take a long time to heal, even with treasure medicine.

    ...

    "Princely Heir!"

    Yin Hanwen''s voice was distorted from the pain, "Did you see that? He''s so arrogant!"

    "It was your idea. If you''re injured, just bear with it!"

    Cao Fan''s expression was emotionless, "But don''t worry, Hanwen, I''ll avenge you. He shot you with one arrow, and I''ll at least cut off one of his arms, cripple him for sure."

    "Thank you, Princely Heir."

    Yin Hanwen said resentfully, "That man is adept at the refining organs skill. Who knows where he got the guts to fight back. During thepetition, Princely Heir, you can take him down within five rounds."

    "Do you even need the Princely Heir? I''ll cripple him if Ie across him,"

    Wen Qiushi said disdainfully, "Actually, he might not even get through the first round of the formation. There''s no need for us to act personally."

    "True,"

    Yin Hanwen sneered, "Leading a bunch of rag-tag troops from the backwoods, no matter how they train, they''re still just that. No matter how exquisite the formation, it will scatter at the first charge, crumble at the first kill!"

    "I heard the Supervisor cherishes his soldiers like his own children. Could this move be just to perform for the Lord Governor?"

    "This kid is indeed scheming. Knowing his humble origins and that his talent is good but not supreme, to secure a good future, he must catch the attention of those above. First, he earned His Majesty''s favor by leading civilians across the river, and now he seeks to prove he is loyal andpassionate towards his oldrades to win over the Supervisor. Quite the strategist he is."

    "You''re overthinking. The Supervisor may appreciate loyal andpassionate individuals, true, but if he drags a bunch of useless trash onto the field, couldn''t Sun Dushi see through his showmanship? It will only backfire."

    "Exactly, at the end of the day, it''s the ability to lead soldiers that''s being tested."

    "Let him be falsely benevolent; we''ll just wait and enjoy the farce."

    "..."

    The supporters of the various Princely Heirs were all talking at once.

    But it was Cao Fan himself who spoke up gravely, "Perhaps not."

    Wen Qiushi asked with suspicion, "What do you mean by that, Princely Heir?"

    "I''ve had someone observe how his soldiers train,"

    Cao Fan spoke calmly, "Those soldiers who escaped from a small county in Yunzhou, under themand of an old man, practice the formation very solidly and smoothly. Despiteing from a small ce, they''ve all been through life and death struggles; they''re not as weak as you all say. In this first test, in my opinion, he should have no issue."

    The Capital City has specifically sent a message saying if there is a chance, he could make contact with Chen Sansi and see if he can be drawn to our side.

 Chapter 123 Sun Xiangzongs Grand Ambition

    "Train thest batch of disciples well, and Supervisor Sun can retire to enjoy the years of his life,"@@novelbin@@

    Mr. Hou said in a drawn-out tone, "Our household is truly envious."

    "Indeed."

    Governor Liu added, "Mr. Sun has worked hard for the court all his life, and he should rest well. The heavy responsibility of the Northern Territory''s border defense and the Eight Camps will be taken up by us juniors on behalf of the court!"

    Sun Xiangzong lifted his teacup, skimming the froth off the tea, without speaking.

    "Supervisor Sun."

    Governor Liu leaned forward, "Nan Xu Country has had frequent exchanges with the barbarian envoys recently, stirring trouble. The main and deputy generals of the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, and Vermilion Bird camps will likely need to assist Prince Zhen Nan after the Selected Point concludes. The southern border needs such talented generals."

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    "What''s the rush?"

    Sun Xiangzong drank his tea unhurriedly, "We''ll talk about it when the timees."

    "Supervisor Sun, what do you mean?"

    Governor Liu, clearly not expecting such a response, said solemnly, "We had an agreement before."

    "Times change."

    Sun Xiangzong removed the tea from the brim of his cup, "Even if someone like Governor Liu stayed behind in Yunzhou ten days ago, with the Eight Camps present, it would be barely enough to keep an eye on the Northern Territory. But after ten days, I fear it won''t suffice."

    Even if, barely...

    Hearing himself described in such terms, Governor Liu maintained a smile, "Then what do you suggest, Supervisor Sun?"

    "Within ten days in Yunzhou, they conducted a blood sacrifice with unclear intent; both of you should be well aware of this. The longer we dy, the more likely the barbarians will grow stronger, until they arepletely uncontroble,"

    Sun Xiangzong said lightly, "Before I retire, I must at least annihte two barbarian tribes to ensure that for fifty years no one dares to invade on arge scale."

    "My disciples still need to stay and assist me. I''m afraid they can''t be transferred away in a short time."

    "Moreover, I need to expand the army.

    "From Eight Camps to Twelve Camps, the total military force should be expanded to over one hundred and fifty thousand."

    "The funds, grain, and medicinal materials required have all been calcted by me, and I hope the court can cooperate."

    "Expand the camps?"

    Governor Liu and Mr. Hou were both taken aback before almost simultaneously saying, "Supervisor Sun, it''s a major decision, not something you can determine with a single word."

    Sun Xiangzong reached into his chest, slowly pulling out a letter he had written, "I have prepared the petition; please trouble Mr. Hou to deliver it to His Majesty. His Majesty should grant his approval after reading it."

    "What''s there to be agitated about?

    "I am a man on the brink of death, merely hoping to do something for the people before I pass away. Once I''m gone, let alone twelve camps, even if there are twenty, aren''t they all His Majesty''s, the court''s? Or are you worried that I might rebel?"

    "Supervisor Sun, your words are too harsh. Who in the world would doubt your loyalty to the court?"

    Mr. Hou took care of the letter, "This confidential letter, I will deliver to His Majesty as soon as possible."

    "That''s settled."

    Sun Xiangzong reclined again in the Grandmaster Chair, squinting his eyes, "Let''s watch the Selected Point."

    "Yes."

    Governor Liu nodded deeply, "If His Majesty really approves Supervisor Sun''s petition, these young people will be the core force of the new four camps."

    "Dang¡ª¡ª"

    Li Qianzong sounded the battle drum, "Enter!"

    "Buzz¡ª¡ª"

    The wooden doors of the Martial Arts Arena opened.

    The first candidate for the Selected Spear Generals, Cui Yongping, began his assessment.

    Soon after, the three examiners discussed and gave a rating: second-ss.

    "The formation was smooth, but he took too long to recover from the initial surprise attack. Even though he eventually stabilized the formation without crumbling, second-ss is the highest he can achieve."

    "Next!"

    "Jie Sishu!"

    ...

    "Next, Chen Sansi!"

    "..."

    "Chen Sansi?"

    Governor Liu remarked, "Isn''t that the young general who escorted the civilians across the river?"

    "Exactly."

    Mr. Hou said, "Mr. Chen is favored by His Majesty, exceptionally promoted to third-rank honor. If he further establishes military achievements, a title of nobility awaits him."

    "I''ve spent half my life in officialdom and am now just a second-rank governor with the title of an upright senior minister. For him to achieve third-rank at such a young age, he indeed has a limitless future."

    Governor Liumented, "It''s just a pity he doesn''t know how to stay clean and has already gotten mixed up with Young Master Yan. He will inevitably be tainted by corruption and end up in disgrace."

    "Mr. Liu, mind your words,"

    Mr. Hou retorted, "Elder Yan is held in high esteem; how could you describe him as a treacherous official in your words?"

    "Isn''t he?"

    Governor Liu snorted, "Thirty years ago, the Capital City purge, twenty years ago, the flood caused by dyke demolition, fifteen years ago... in short, how many loyal ministers have died because of the Yan Party? They werewless because they once carried out reforms and won the Emperor''s trust. Is he not a treacherous official? And about the fall of An Ding Prefecture''s Great Wall, General Li Yuan, who was in charge of the Great Wall, wasn''t he once Yan Liang''s student? It''s very likely that he betrayed the country!"

    "If you don''t have evidence, how can Mr. Liu make such usations? Those of us in the pce dare not gossip, or we wouldn''t survive three days,"

    Mr. Hou sneered, "Whether Elder Yan is loyal or not, it is for the wise Emperor to judge. As for you, Mr. Liu, I really want to remind you, the current Emperor is pursuing the way of immortality, and who knows, he might ascend one day. You and Mr. Gao frequently contact the Crown Prince of the Eastern Pce. I wonder what you''re scheming. Don''t forget, whether it is Elder Yan, Mr. Gao, or the Crown Prince, they are all servants of the Emperor!"

    "No need for Mr. Hou''s reminder."

    Mr. Liu snorted, "Our loyalty to the Emperor is clear for all to see!"

 Chapter 124 You Can Kill Without a Gun Tip!

    After the Nine Pce Eight Diagram Formation was restored, it gradually fell into the hands of themon folk.

    When Chen Sansi had free time, he and Xu Wencai had studied it together and were thoroughly familiar with it; it was only because they did not have enough soldiers that they could not set it up.

    In realbat, there was no such thing as a "Life Gate"; the Life Gate would be heavily guarded, turning it into the actual Death Gate, making the entire formation imprable, unless one relied on brute force to break down the formation until it copsed on its own.

    But since it was an exercise, and one that required racing against time, there would certainly be a Life Gate, testing the Main General''s understanding of military formations and their personal adaptive capabilities.

    Once inside the battle formation, one would be attacked by countless axes, halberds, hooks, and forks from all directions, aimed mostly at the warhorses beneath them.

    Under these circumstances, losing a warhorse was akin to having one''s legs broken, and one would soon be surrounded by heavy troops, unable to escape.

    However, the soldiers within the Eight Diagram Formation bore no real malice and preferred to capture alive if possible, or else just to dy time.

    A stick of incense, or about half an hour, was needed to break through the formation of forty thousand men; just walking across would take an unknown length of time, not to mention that these Array Soldiers were all elites from the Eight Camps. Even if the generals above the Refining Internal level were eliminated, leaving behind only those at the Bone Training level, it would be impossible to force one''s way through. One had to find the Life Gate.@@novelbin@@

    "Northwest Qiang Pce, Five Elements Belonging to Gold, open the gate."

    While Chen Sansi continually parried attacks from every direction, he quickly determined his position in the sea of people and soon found the only path to life.

    To his left was one of the three deadly gates, the Injury Gate, which appeared to have weak forces but would trap anyone who entered, preventing their escape. To his right was the Surprise Gate,bining reality and illusion, likely hiding a Death Gate behind it.

    Only directly ahead was the Rest Gate, the only "Jimen" in sight, yet it was blocked by an eight-foot-tall Mystical Iron Shield, looking impregnable.

    A bluff!

    "Go!"

    Chen Sansi shouted, and the long spear in his hand, unsharpened, smashed down like a Siege Giant Hammer, flipping the shield and the Heavy Armor soldier holding it into the air. He burst through the tight encirclement as if opening arge door, and man and horse alike surged through like fish returning to the ocean, unhindered and charging forward.

    "Good!"

    Above the city walls.

    The officials watched the Nine Pce Eight Diagram Formation on the ground from a godlike perspective, apuding and cheering.

    "Mr. Chen is incredible!"

    General Zhao praised sincerely, "Up to this point, he is the fastest to have found the direction of the Life Gate, even Jie Sishu, with the Body of Innate Martial Saint, made several mistakes before finding the right path, leading to only a ss B result in the end."

    Mr. Hou also admired him greatly, "After General Fang broke through the Nine Pce Eight Diagram Formation, even I studied it for a full three years before I understood it. Mr. Chen has only been enlisted for a short time, and not only does his Martial Arts prowess nearly rival the geniuses of the Capital City, but he also possesses such substantial military strategy strength."

    "Hmm, passable."

    Sun Xiangzong slightly raised the corners of his mouth, returned to his seat, and continued to drink tea while watching.

    "Not bad at all."

    Meng Guangxin stretched his neck, "Old Fourth, whatever formation you''vee up with, in my eyes, it looks like a bunch of circles spinning around. This kid did well, broke it in an instant."

    "Otherwise, how do you think he managed to defeat six thousand barbarians with just over a thousand remaining soldiers?"

    Fang Qingyun was not surprised at all, "Then, leading those thousand wounded soldiers, he escorted tens of thousands of civilians across the river. It''s impossible with brute strength alone, he also neededprehension and flexible application of military tactics."

    "I also know military tactics,"

    Meng Guangxin touched his bald head, "It''s not asplicated as you say. If we can fight, we fight; if we can''t, we run!"

    "No need to look any further for the first to reach ss A in the breakthrough exercise,"

    Sun Buqi dered the victory outright.

    Apart from the chief examiner, the invigting officers, and the officials, thedies who came for the show didn''t understand the intricacies but could see that this young general was the only one who wasn''t trapped after entering the battle formation.

    "Sun Li, this is the Chen Sansi you were talking about, right?" Stay connected with empire

    Several daughters of high-ranking officials were engrossed in the scene from behind a curtain.

    Sun Li was among them.

    Today, she did not wear clothes suitable for fighting, but a white gauze stand-cor jacket that revealed a light pink lining, a Kong Mansion floriated skirt on the lower body, and her hair pinned up, even softening the heroic spirit in her eyebrows and eyes.

    "Yes."

    Sun Li answered faintly, "That''s him."

    "He''s really impressive, but I heard his qualifications are not enough,"

    Her friend said, "This time, the champion will be one of Cao Fan, Yan Changqing, or Lu Shuhua. By the way, Sun Li, hasn''t your father ever considered a marriage alliance with the Imperial Family?"

    Though they weredies, being from high-ranking official families, they were exposed to some degree of court politics.

    To these people, the best way for the Sun Family to descend from power safely was to be part of the Imperial Family.

    "No."

    Sun Li replied calmly.

    There indeed had been no such thing.

    Not only had she never entertained the idea, but her father had also never had such intentions and didn''t follow other high-ranking families in arranging political marriages generation after generation.

    Moreover, the Sun Family''s situation was unique; mere marriage alliances could not resolve their issues.

    This was not her concern.

    All she could do was practice her swordy and strive to be stronger.

    "I''m going back."

    With that thought, Sun Li could no longer sit still and stood up to leave.

 Chapter 125 Martial Saint, What Is That Supposed to Be?

    Outside the Nine Pce Eight Diagram Formation.

    No matter what was happening in the core of the formation, the Selected Spear Generals at the forefront could neither see nor hear it; they only knew that the sandalwood incense was burning incessantly and was about to burn out.

    "ss B?"

    Zhao Kang and others looked on from a distance, even more anxious than if they were the ones being assessed.

    "An anomaly indicates the presence of demons."

    Xu Wencai, flicking his feather fan, said, "I and Mr. Chen have already thoroughly studied the Nine Pce Eight Diagram Formation. By calction, it should have ended by now. The fact that he hasn''te out yet means there''s definitely an ident¡ªlet''s wait and see."

    "..."

    "Why hasn''t General Chene out yet?"

    Bai Thingzhi wanted to climb higher to see what was happening inside but was blocked by weapons.

    "Please abide by the rules, General, or your qualification will be revoked."

    "..."

    Tang Yingke sat on a stone pier, drawing with his sword on the ground.

    "Brother!"

    Bai Thingzhi came over, "Last time I saw you murmuring a bunch to General Chen, do you know something? Share with me."

    "It''s nothing."

    Tang Yingke avoided the question, "Mr. Chen is capable. He won''t die."

    "Won''t die?"

    Even Bai Thingzhi, as simple-minded as he was, could tell something was off.

    Normally, one wouldn''t die in the formation trial.

    Experience tales at empire

    To say so meant there was a problem!

    ...

    "That''s it?"

    Yin Hanwen looked at the nearly burnt-out first stick of sandalwood incense, "Even I can break the Nine Pce Eight Diagram Formation. I thought this kid was something special, but he fell at the second hurdle."

    Wen Qiushi followed up, "He still couldn''t escape the palm of the Princely Heir."

    Cao Fan said nothing, merely waiting silently for the result to be announced.

    ss B? That wasn''t enough!

    He hoped, if not death, then at least crippling, so the man would stop being an eyesore, flitting about before his eyes.

    Moreover, today''s arrangement was foolproof, as he had a Martial Saint helping him with a greater scheme in store regarding theyout of the Eight Camps.

    "Buzz¡ª"

    Suddenly, a sound of heavy weapons cleaving the air resounded beside them.

    Cao Fan''s eyebrows knitted together as he picked up his Azure Dragon Crescent de.

    He saw Bai Thingzhi raising his broadsword anding at them, "What Princely Heir? I''ll ughter you!"

    "Truly a well-biting hound!"

    Cao Fan had heard his father say.

    There were loyal ministers in the world who could be unimaginably faithful to their masters, and securing such talented generals was indeed a great fortune.

    It seemed there really were such people.

    Unfortunately, they were not his.

    "What are you doing?"

    Cao Fan said gravely, "Attacking the Princely Heir for no reason, do you want to have your entire n executed?"

    Bai Thingzhi stated bluntly, "Tell me, was it you who sabotaged the formation?"

    "Ridiculous!"

    Cao Fan scoffed, "Chen''s own ipetence at breaking out of the formation has nothing to do with me. Why are you biting me without reason?"

    He didn''t need to lift a finger himself; Bai Thingzhi was already blocked at every turn.

    Knowing he could not get close, Bai Thingzhi shouted to Thousand Captain Li at the side, "My lord, there''s definitely something wrong with the formation!"

    He was not just specting without cause.

    That Tang Yingke was clearly aware of the inside story; he just hadn''t revealed it.

    "Without evidence, you dare to create a disturbance?"

    Thousand Captain Li frowned, "If there truly is a problem, the chief examiners will deal with it justly. There''s no need for you to shout and scream here! Seize him, and after the examination is over, decide whether to revoke his Selected Spear qualification!"

    "Rustle¡ª"

    Several Generals who had attained Refining Internal Organs Perfection, responsible for maintaining order in the examination field, stepped forward and pinned Bai Thingzhi firmly to the ground.

    Thousand Captain Li turned to look at the sandalwood incense on the table, sighed inwardly, and estimated it was also ss B, noting that the Nine Pce Eight Diagram Formation devised by General Fang really was difficult to break.

    "The assessment is over!"

    "Chen Sansi, ss A!"

    A loud voice rang out alongside the gong.

    At the same time, the incense on the table coincidentally extinguished.

    "The first ss A!"

    "ss A!"

    The previously eliminated Selected Spear Generals, who had received a ss B, all showed an incredulous expression.

    Generals like Cui Yongping and Xie Sishu even thought that ss B was the highest grade attainable in this assessment.

    Because the Nine Pce Eight Diagram Formation was just too difficult!

    It''s easy to theorize about strategies on paper; they all knew how the formation worked, but when they genuinely entered the vast formation of forty thousand men, they immediately became headless flies. With concepts like the Nine Pce, the Six Gates, the Six Instruments, and the Three Oddities, although clear in their minds, they became confused, unable to discern anything on the field.

    That rural general, whose skills were even inferior to theirs, somehow scored ss A, showing his profound understanding of military tactics and his extraordinary adaptability on the spot.

    "ss A?"

    The moment before, those like Yin Hanwen who had been reveling in another''s misfortune were suddenly petrified.

    Especially Cao Fan, who wasn''t even fully confident about securing ss A himself, let alone considering the obstacles he had set up inside the formation, even tampering with the weapons.

    ''Truly capable indeed...''

    He had a measure of respect in his heart. If this person wasn''t so intent onpeting for the title of Champion Leader and wasn''t unwilling to ally with him, he indeed would have been a talent to utilize.

    ''Fortunately.''

    ''You may have passed the hurdle, but your dog won''t!''

    He approached the soldiers maintaining order: "Thousand Captain Li, you''ve seen it. Mr. Chen passed smoothly. There''s nothing unfair about this examination. This clearly shows he''s deliberately disrupting order. Why not revoke his Selected Spear qualification promptly and then take him away for questioning?"

    "Bang¡ª"

    A bloody severed head fell from the sky,nding in front of everyone.

    Chen Sansi appeared empty-handed, "Thousand Captain Li, Bai Thingzhi was not talking nonsense. Someone indeed tampered with the formation. Please do not punish him."

    "Thousand Captain, we can testify, General Chen speaks the truth,"

    The soldiers who witnessed the entire process also came over, speaking in unison, "The people at the Du Gate were reced, including several Refining Internals, and they were aiming to kill. Bring them here!"@@novelbin@@

 Chapter 126 Regaining Prestige, Qilins Heart!

    A sudden incident that onlysted an instant, was like a bolt of lightning on a clear day; after it ended, the sky remained cloudless. If not for the several pools of blood and flesh on the ground proving that something had happened, the tens of thousands of people would probably wonder if it was an illusion.

    Martial Saint!

    The Martial Saint!

    Not to mention in Liangzhou, even in the entire world, he counted as a formidable force.

    In front of this nearly hundred-year-old elder, to not even be a match, or to be precise, not evensting one round or qualifying as an enemy¡ªit was like crushing an ant.

    Despite not taking action for over a decade, despite being seen by everyone as a flickering candle in the wind, waiting for the day to be buried in peace, when Sun Xiangzong unleashed his thunderous strike at this moment, it was akin to a resounding bell toll in everyone''s hearts, leaving them shaken and unable to calm down for a long time.

    "Majestic!"

    "Supervisor majestic¡ª"

    Within the Military City.

    Following a prolonged silence as if time had stopped, and after the shock, someone shouted a voice in the crowd that hadn''t been heard in ten years.

    "The Supervisor''s divine might!"

    "Hurrah hurrah hurrah hurrah¡ª"

    This moment.

    A hundred thousand elite Armored Soldiers knelt in unison, their voices booming like thunder, reverberating through the entirety of Liangzhou City.

    This day,@@novelbin@@

    the aged Sun Xiangzong, by taking a Martial Saint''s life, picked up the prestige he had once deliberately put aside, and effortlessly reimed it!

    The court had intended to seize power with today''s arrangement.

    And wasn''t it also Sun Xiangzong making counter moves against the n?

    From this day onwards,

    the rumor in the streets that "Old Xiangzong is senile, but can he still eat?" will probably change to "Old Xiangzong is senile, but is he plotting something?"

    Enjoy new tales from empire

    "The Supervisor''s divine might!"

    The cheering grew louder and louder, and did not stop for half an hour.

    Some of the older soldiers even cried with joy, eventually breaking down into weeping.

    Some of them had followed Sun Xiangzong since their youth.

    Now in their forties or fifties, they had essentially followed him their whole lives!

    Until these recent years of silence, everyone had watched with their own eyes as the Supervisor grew increasingly frail, managing military affairs less and less, as if he would leave them at any moment.

    It''s no wonder everyone thought so.

    The reality was just so.

    If it had been before, how could Sun Dushi have allowed the existence of governors or military supervisors around him, let alone handing over three of the Eight Great Camps so easily.

    Doing so, wasn''t he telling everyone that he was ready to retire and return home?

    Many could see that today''s farce was deliberately making things difficult for the Supervisor.

    If Sun Xiangzong didn''t retaliate, raising his hand high only to let it fall gently, then they would havepletely lost hope.

    But now, the soldiers realized that the Supervisor was still the Supervisor!

    These years, the Supervisor was just taking a rest.

    Now that he has rested well, he is back!

    Under the influence of this atmosphere, officials from the Northwest Three States as well as the Capital City were nearly kneeling along with the rest, only to realize at thest moment that they weren''t under Sun Xiangzong''s jurisdiction¡ªnearlymitting a grave sin of overstepping their bounds.

    ...

    "Ruined."

    Cao Fan''s heart sank.

    The trap they had meticulously designed turned out to be a pit they had dug for themselves.

    Although Sun Xiangzong''s prestige had declined over the years, this incident caused it to soar back up, and now for the court to try and take over the Eight Camps, the trouble would be enormous, not to mention they would ultimately have to look at the old man''s face.

    "Is this even human..."

    Yin Hanwen and Wen Qiushi, among others, were still immersed in the brief confrontation.

    The Martial Saint¡ªthat was the Martial Saint!

    They didn''t even see what happened and ended up as minced meat?

    No wonder so many martial arts geniuses from all over the world came topete in Selected Point, who wouldn''t want to learn from such a person¡ªthat is the true Martial Arts Saint!

    In Cao Fan''s eyes, there was an intense yearning.

    To emerge victorious in Selected Point, he was determined to win!

    ...

    "Blue energy..."

    While the tens of thousands were shocked, Chen Sansi, through the Qi Observation Skill, noticed what set apart the Martial Saint from those above him.

    He witnessed with his own eyes.

    When Sun Dushi made his move, the energy that surged within him was the distinct Qingxuan Energy, strikingly different from everyone else''s, no wonder the Martial Saint couldn''t even withstand one move.

    They were fighting from different sources of power, how could onepete?

    Moreover, Chen Sansi paid attention to that long spear; although it was just for a fleeting moment, that brief glimpse made him feel admiration for a weapon for the first time, far surpassing the Zhenyue Sword, and even felt that there wasn''t a second spear of the same quality in the human realm.

    Besides, where did the weapone from?

    He was certain that the Supervisor had not carried any weapons, and nobody had delivered one at the time, as if it had appeared out of thin air.

    Chen Sansi looked more carefully.

    Even though Sun Xiangzong''s clothes were patched up, only the bright silver thumb ring on his right thumb seemed to be of considerable value, an Immortal Item, perhaps.

    ...

    "Sun Xiangzong!"

    Liu Zhongxian called out his name, "You''ve got some nerve, General Ning is the court-appointed Upper Pir Country, you, what right do you have to kill him!"

    "Supervisor, you''re rather reckless in your actions."

    Mr. Hou regained his senses, pointing out with lingering fear, "Aren''t you afraid of the court''s punishment?"

    "The petition for my crime was written in advance, and has already been given to Mr. Hou, just hand it over to His Majesty, and I will take whatever punishmentes."

    In the blink of an eye, Sun Xiangzong had reverted to the appearance of an elderly man from the vige entrance.

    He turned with a slight hunch in his back, "Fourth, you weren''t hurt, were you?"

    "Teacher worries too much."

    Fang Qingyun appeared calm.

    "Was the petition already written?"

    Mr. Hou took out the petition that the Supervisor had handed to him before the start of Selected Point, inside it talked about expanding the forces, could it be that killing Ning Changqun was also written in advance?

    What if today''s events hadn''t urred?

 Chapter 127 Wifes Pregnancy, Battle for Champion Leader!

    The person exuding ck qi did not show his face, instead hiding behind the shields near the city gate, lying in wait.

    From the glimpse captured just now,

    this qi was no weaker than many Meridian Passage Realm generals.

    Qi Observation Skill doesn''t directly describe the realm, it can only gauge an approximation, and since Chen Sansi was only at Refining Internal, his judgement was naturally limited.

    If it were Meridian Passage...

    Zhang Huaimin!

    As a second-rate sect in Liangzhou, Seven Absolute Sect had only one Meridian Passage and four Hua Jins.

    It could only be Zhang Huaimin.

    Why would there be ck qi on this person?

    And it would surge at times and retract at others, not constantly present.

    Was it from eating a Poisonous Beast or was it the power source that turned a fierce beast into a Poisonous Beast?

    Chen Sansi did not approach.

    Above Refining Internal was not within their duty, and with enough numbers, there was no need for showing off and risking danger.

    As he continued to use his bow to reap lower realm martial masters, he used Qi Observation Skill to probe the rest, and in the end, discovered that only Zhang Huaimin had ck qi, or at least he was the only one who had shown it.

    "Brothers, charge!"

    "As long as we can leave the Great Wall, we will be citizens of the Grasnd Heavenly n!"@@novelbin@@

    "..."

    It hade to this.

    The disciples of Seven Absolute Sect had no retreat, surrender meant execution, so they might as well fight to the death, seizing thest thread of hope, their battle power exploding in an unbelievable manner,parable to Sinking Formation Death Will.

    Unfortunately,

    the disparity in brute strength was too vast.

    The elite of the Flying Hero Camp had highbat quality and were led by many generals above Hua Jin, and in less than the time it took for two cups of tea to brew, of the 1500 Seven Absolute Sect disciples, only two or three hundred remained.

    Now, the Selected Spear Generals who hadn''t gathered enough numbers grew even more panicked.

    Cao Fan, Wen Qiushi, Lu Shuhua, and others, disregarding the danger, rushed into the crowd to seek out andbat martial artists in the Refining Internal Realm.

    "Halt!"

    Wen Qiushi, wielding a pair of sabers, chased after a martial master who seemed to have just entered Refining Internal.

    His ring-headed sabers swung up like twin crescent moons descending from the sky, one attack after another, each stroke ovepping and each move deadlier, seemingly endless.

    Moon Splitting Saber Technique!

    "Not a bad saber technique."

    With the aid of the Qilin''s Heart, Chen Sansi analyzed the opponent''s moves, quickly discerning the essence of the technique and understanding its characteristics.

    Of course, without sparring in person, just by watching with his eyes, he wasn''t able to find a way to counter it.

    This Wen Qiushi,

    despite acting like a fawning dog all day, was like him at a small achievement of Refining Internal, said to be just shy of reaching Great Sess of Refining, his saber technique also well-practiced.

    No help for it, after all, he was the Young Master of Moon Splitting Mountain Vi with a father who was a Martial Saint.

    "ng, ng, ng, ng!"

    Wen Qiushi became like a spinning wheel of sabers, pounding incessantly at a sword from a Seven Absolute Sect disciple. Both were of a small achievement in Refining Internal, but the gap was substantial.

    Unable to withstand ten exchanges, the disciple couldn''t keep hold of his sword, which slipped from his hand, and he was cleaved into three parts from the middle, blood sttering everywhere!

    Stay updated through empire

    "One more Refining Internal left!"

    Counting in his mind, Wen Qiushi rushed towards the city gate and noticed the figure hiding behind the shield: "Zhang Huaimin?!"

    "Boom!"

    A loud noise.

    The heavy Mystical Iron Shield flew directly, smashing at him as if a steel mountain descended from the sky, leaving no ce to dodge. Wen Qiushi''s dual sabers struck out, going full force in a Blood Explosion State, and finally managed to fling the shield away.

    But at the same time,

    Zhang Huaimin, previously hidden behind the shield, had already reached him, his longsword aiming straight for the throat. In the blink of an eye, another spear blocked the de.

    "You go elsewhere!"

    Guan Jizeng, holding the spear, said, "Above Refining Internal doesn''t require your involvement."

    "Thanks, General Guan!"

    Wen Qiushi, still shaken, sped his fists and quickly took his sabers to fend elsewhere.

    "Zhang Huaimin!"

    Guan Jizeng pointed at him with his spear, "Surrender! Even if you leave Dongyi City, the Great Wall still lies ahead, and even if you make it to the grasnd, do you think the barbarians will respect you?"

    "Enough talk! You dogs of the Elephant Sect, you all deserve to die!"

    Zhang Huaimin roared, his longsword enveloped in a transparent qi, shing with the general''s spear. After more than a couple of dozen exchanges,

    Both their realms were Meridian Passage.

    But perhaps due to battle experience or specialized cultivation techniques, Guan Jizeng gradually gained the upper hand, and in a standoff of weapons, he found an opportunity and drove his foot into the enemy''s chest.

    With his Power wrapped in force, its strength was beyond ten thousand jins.

    Zhang Huaimin, like a kite severed from its string, was flung away, mming into the city wall, leaving an indent in the shape of a human, blood oozing from his eyes, ears, mouth, and nose.

    Guan Jizeng was about to finish him,

    "Damn it, the ck qi ising out again."

    Having been observant, Chen Sansi sharply noticed the fluctuating ck-red qi within the Seven Absolute Sect Leader intensifying,pletely overshadowing his original colorless breath.

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    Chen Sansi loosed an arrow from his bow, wanting to help Guan Jizeng finish the enemy quickly.

    He might not understand the exact effects of the ck qi on the human body, but knew it wouldn''t be good, better to kill what can be killed fast.

    However,

    Zhang Huaimin, who should have been severely wounded, suddenly leapt up, under the influence of the ck qi in his body, the qi around him steadily climbing until it almost materialized.

    The same power had been manifested by Governor Liu before.

    This is... Gang Qi!

    Profound Image Realm!

    "A breakthrough?"

    Chen Sansi furrowed his brow.

    Could ck qi help someone breakthrough?

    "What?"

    Guan Jizeng saw it as well, "Zhang Huaimin, when did you break through to the Profound Image Realm? With your qualifications, it should take at least another ten years before you''d have a chance for a breakthrough."

 Chapter 128 To the Bitter End

    "The boy sure has perseverance!"

    Wen Zhi eximed with emotion.

    The Selected Point exam venue isn''t a marketce; naturally, not just anyone can enter, not even a Martial Saint is allowed to approach at will.

    Wen Zhi and Shao Yujing both came over on a whim, without going to the designated viewing area, and were barred by many Armored Soldiers wielding spears, so they could only watch from a distance.

    By chance, Wen Qiushi had his back to them, so they couldn''t see what was happening to his face.

    They could only tell that Chen Sansi''s spear technique was extremely fierce, quickly gaining the upper hand in this martial artspetition and showing signs of a one-sided battle.

    But Wen Qiushi hadn''t given up and was still persevering bitterly.

    Wen Zhi analyzed, "This spear technique doesn''t seem like the several setsmonly circted in the military. It feels like itbines the strengths of various schools, and is a spear technique created by fusion. Did Sun Xiangzong create this technique?

    "But the problem is, the Selected Pointpetition isn''t over yet, so where did he get this spear technique from? Did Sun Xiangzong take a fancy to him in advance?"

    "The young man surnamed Chen is on good terms with the Young Master of the Sun Family. It''s not unusual for him to learn some spear techniques, and it''s no big deal."

    All these geniuses, which one learns a normal Cultivation Technique?

    "Hmm, my son lost fairly."

    Wen Zhi looked towards the city wall, where the Supervisor, with an elderly and debilitated appearance, was stationed: "Even Martial Saints like us will significantly decline in strength as we age; everyone says he is almost dead, so how could he kill Ning Changqun in one move? That Ning Changqun is even stronger than the two of us! How much longer must we endure him?"

    A considerable part of the military supplies for the Eight Camps needs to be donated by them, and the amount is astronomical.

    Furthermore, with broad jurisdiction, their ie in various aspects is also diminished.

    It can be said that wherever the Eight Camps go, no one doesn''t hate Sun Xiangzong.

    But hate is useless, and they can only hate in their hearts, hoping the other party would quickly die.

    "Let''s not talk about that for now."

    Shao Yujing said, "Yourd will die if he keeps fighting like this. Is he not going to admit defeat?"

    ...

    "Wuu wuu wuu... I..."

    Wen Qiushi wanted to shout out the words "I admit defeat," but no matter what, he couldn''t do it. His mouth was a bloody mess, his teeth shattered like sand, and he kept spitting out the thick, bloodied saliva. Even as he desperately tried to block with his twin des, the vulnerabilities were increasingly numerous.

    "Zi!"

    "Zi!"

    Each of his mistakes was urately captured, followed by another bloody hole in his body. Even if not fatal, he wouldn''tst long.

    How many holes can a living person endure?

    Wen Qiushi didn''t even have the chance to escape by jumping off the arena. The moment he stopped, there would only be one oue: death. He could only endure the severe pain and emit pitiful "wuu wuu ah ah" noises, hoping to convey his intent to admit defeat and be saved through these sounds.

    ...

    "Admit defeat!"

    Outside the arena, Wen Zhi shouted loudly, "Stop, admit defeat, we admit defeat!"

    No one paid attention.

    He tried to enter the arena but was once again blocked by a forest of spears.

    "Master Wen, no one can disrupt the order of the Selected Point!"

    "General."

    Wen Zhi pointed toward the arena, and the Martial Saint''s voice was extremely frantic: "My son is admitting defeat; he has admitted defeat. Quickly go up and pull them apart!"

    "Nonsense."

    An older General Tongmai said, "Your son is clearly giving his all in battle, a true iron-blooded hero. Master Wen, as a father, don''t spoil your son."

    "Mouth!"

    The direction of the two on the tform shifted.

    Only then did Wen Zhi finally see his son''s mangled face, and he roared, "He can''t shout out his surrender, someone save him, quick!"

    "Oh?"

    The old general squinted towards the scene and said slowly, "It does seem like it indeed."

    ...@@novelbin@@

    As thebat onstage reached this point, the onlookers also noticed something was amiss.

    "Hiss!"

    Mr. Hou was engrossed and clicked his tongue in amazement, "This Mr. Chen is interesting. By injuring the opponent''s mouth so he can''t speak, he can keep beating him up. He''s nning to kill someone!"

    "So young, yet so ruthless."

    Pei Tiannanmented, "Mr. Chen really is good officer material, but isn''t this a bit excessive?"

    "Excessive?"

    Mr. Hou scoffed, "Mr. Pei, didn''t you see Wen Qiushi fighting with Tang Yingke with intent to kill earlier?"

    "Oh?"

    Pei Tiannan said, "What Mr. Hou is suggesting is that Mr. Chen is avenging Young Master Tang?"

    "Exactly!" Mr. Hou nodded.

    Tang Yingke was in the corner of the Martial Arts Arena, hastily treating his wounds. He couldn''t misunderstand the situation, and his pupils trembled uncontrobly, unable to speak for a while.

    "Brother Tang, do you see that?"

    Bai Thingzhi spoke excitedly, "General Chen is avenging you! You''ve got to remember this favor!"

    ...

    "Stop!"

    The General in charge of invigting finally confirmed that the Young Master of Moon Splitting Mountain Vi was indeed trying to admit defeat with his wailing, and he hurriedly rushed over.

    "Wuu wuu ah¡ª"

    Wen Qiushi''s movements becamepletely disordered, and it was unclear what he was saying, but the distinct sobbing was audible. His body had seven to eight bloody holes, sparing only his vital parts!

    And from the start of the duel to this moment,

    Only three rounds had passed, which was the time for a few deep breaths.

    The others managed to respond at this time, and that was already quite fast.

    As Chen Sansi saw the invigting General rushing towards him, the Blood of Dragon Elephant in his body surged even faster. Under the extreme Blood Movement, the power and speed of his spear in hand climbed another level.

    Wen Qiushi''s strength was truly not bad. Since Chen Sansi began practicing Martial Arts, this was the first time he felt it was so difficult to kill someone. Those ring-head knives always managed to protect the crucial parts at thest moment, butputing the time, it was about sufficient. Just a bit faster!

    "Mr. Chen, have you gone mad?"

    Several Selected Spear Generals who had been eliminated from thepetition were watching nearby, and they all showed expressions of iprehension.

    Must he kill?

    Isn''t he afraid?

    "Wen Qiushi''s father is the Manor Master of Moon Splitting Mountain Vi, a Martial Saint!"

    "Mr. Chen, please cease!"

    "..."

    Weapons in the arena don''t discriminate, and there is no need to take responsibility for life or death.

    That is the rule.

    But in reality, how many dare to abide by it?

    It wasn''t the ones with strong backgrounds who generally got hurt; even if their opponents were stronger, they always tried to hold back. As for those without such powerful backing, they didn''t have such considerations and often had to face their opponents'' full onught.

    This Mr. Chen...

    "Madman!"

    Yan Changqing''s heart pounded incessantly.

    On the arena.

    Both of Wen Qiushi''s wrists, as if bitten by venomous snakes, had their tendons shredded, rendering him unable to hold onto his ring-head knives, thus also losing his final means of self-protection.

    He raised his hands, about to kneel and beg for mercy.

    A pity.

    He wasn''t even given the chance to kneel.

    "Stop!"

    "Stop¡ª"

    "Pu-chi¡ª"

    The reed-leaf long spear met its destination right before the other man could kneel, piercing through his heart. Warm blood sprayed out, scattering in the air like a blooming blood-red lotus.

    "Buzz!"

    The judge general''srge hand grasped the spear shaft.

    But s, it was toote.

    Supported by the long spear, Wen Qiushi''s body was frozen in a rigid state, halfway to kneeling, with his head drooping powerlessly, his blood dripping down his chin. It hung suspended midair due to its viscosity rather than dropping to the ground, and the whole person resembled nothing more than a corpse.

    "You..."

    The judge general looked at the spear-holder, his expression somewhatplex, "He had already surrendered, yet you still delivered a fatal blow."

    "General, he didn''t shout out,"

    Chen Sansi looked utterly clueless: "So, this doesn''t break the rules, does it?"

    Experience tales with empire

    "No, it doesn''t."

    The judge general, however, started to smile: "Dead is considered surrendering."

    Earlier.

    When Tang Yingke shouted "I surrender," it was also his responsibility to stop the match.

    That man had truly cried out.

    Mr. Wen didn''t afford him any face either.

    Dead, that''s what he deserved!

    It could only be said that he brought it upon himself, beyond any help.

    The judge general let go of the spear, too indolent to even bother with the body, simply leaping away. What did it have to do with him?

    "My son!!!"

    "Boom¡ª"

    In the distance.

    Wen Zhi shattered the spear in front of him with a palm strike, trying to rush onto the stage, but was again stopped by a new wall of people. Beside him, a mountainous figure appeared.

    "Ji!"

    Wen Zhi came to an abrupt stop, his voice trembling but not moving further: "He killed my son!"

    "The young master did not call out his surrender."

    Ji''s expression remained calm: "The judge officer also attempted rescue, everythingplied with the rules, and we favored no sides. I hope Master Wen won''t cause groundless trouble."

    "Ah! I will kill him!"

    Wen Zhi shouted, "Ji, are you really going to stand in my way?!"

    "Being upset for the death of a son, what''s there to be excited about?"

    Ji frowned impatiently: "Don''t you still have two sons? The youngest one, he has the Body of Martial Saint; just cultivate him anew. The rules are the rules, I advise you not to do anything you will regret. If that happens, even I cannot help you."

    "You..."

    Wen Zhi''s face turned a murderous red, veins bulging. He looked at the Sun Xiangzong atop the city wall with no reaction, then at Ji, and eventually, he had no choice but to shatter a giant stone pir on the edge of the Martial Arts Arena with a powerful punch.

    His teeth clenched in rage, his voice tinged with mockery: "Ji, you don''t need to scare me! Better consider your own position! How many years have you been a Martial Saint, and yet you haven''t broken through, or is it that Sun Xiangzong won''t teach you? Now, this final Selected Spear tournament is being passed to someone else, yet you''re still standing here, ying his dog?!"

    "That''s not something for Master Wen to worry about."

    Ji, with his eyes closed: "Someone, bring Master Wen''s eldest son''s corpse to him."

    "Yes!"

    "Snap!"

    Soon enough, the blood-soaked body wasid before him.

    "By participating in the Selected Point, one consents to enlist. And where there is enlistment, death is expected; this is a preparation everyone should make well in advance."

    The elderly general said with disdain: "Master Wen, don''t disappoint us."

    "Old Wen,"

    Shao Yujing patted his shoulder: "Keep your cool, your second and third sons are still waiting for you to return. Let''s go."

    After pounding the ground with more than a dozen furious punches, Wen Zhi cast a venomous nce at Chen Sansi on the stage before finally lifting up the corpse of his eldest son and leaving with heavy steps.

    At the exit of the Military City, he was blocked by a wheelchair.

    "Fang Qingyun?"

    Wen Zhi questioned: "What do you want now?"

    "Here to remind Master Wen of something."

    Fang Qingyun''s voice came calmly: "ording to the rules, you are not to seek any private vengeance either. Otherwise..."

    "I know, there''s no need for you to say it!"

    Wen Zhi punctuated each word: "Step aside!"

    "Merely saying it doesn''t suffice."

    Fang Qingyun spoke evenly: "For the forting period, should anything untoward happen to Chen Sansi or any of his family, even to a maid in his house, Master Wen had best be prepared withpelling evidence of his innocence. Otherwise, you won''t be exempt from an inquisition."

    "Is this Sun Xiangzong''s intention? He... is protecting this person so much?!"

    Wen Zhi''s features contorted in fury: "What, if someone else wants to kill him soon, should I serve as his bodyguard?!"

    "That depends on how Master Wen interprets it,"

    Fang Qingyun nced at the Martial Arts Arena: "Anyway, that''s the rule. If a son of a Martial Saint is to be avenged for being killed, then we might as well forget about clear rewards and punishments, let it go. This is the foundation of our Eight Camps, you should understand.

    "Onest thing, my master has been somewhat emotionally unstable these past two years, so..."

    "I, understand."

    Wen Zhi managed to squeeze out a few words with difficulty.

    What could he do?

    What did it matter if he was a Martial Saint?

    In other ces, a Martial Saint is indeed a Saint!

    But here, in the vicinity of the Eight Camps... really worth nothing!

    He could only hope that Sun Xiangzong would die soon and restore peace to the world.

 Chapter 129 Senior Brothers and Sisters

    Upon the stage, Chen Sansi exhaled a breath of turbid air.

    The situation hade to this point; this man, he absolutely had to be killed.

    Even if he didn''t kill him, just winning the match, he at least had to injure his opponent severely.

    After this Wen guy left, he would definitely keep causing endless trouble, and it wasn''t impossible that he would eventually target family members. Could he just keep tolerating this?

    Since he would have to kill eventually,

    It was best to do it upon the stage!

    To kill righteously and openly.

    That way, at least his opponent''s father, a Martial Saint, wouldn''t dare to retaliate openly. That would be enough.

    With things having escted to this point, what was there to worry about offending someone?@@novelbin@@

    The fourth round of the tournament also ended quickly.

    Unconsciously, he had made it to the final match.

    Before thest tformpetition, there were two hours of rest.

    Chen Sansi simply found a spot to sit down and closed his eyes to rest his spirit.

    [Cultivation Technique: Unity Spear Technique (Small Achievement)]

    [Progress: 329/2000]

    The recent days of cultivation, coupled with today''s martial contest, were all quickly improving his proficiency, but it was still far from the Great Sess of Refining Internal Organs.

    Not long after he had decided the victor, the other two participants in the semi-finals also determined a winner.

    Due to Lu Shuhua''s previous injury, Princely Heir Cao Fan won with barely any effort.

    "He, he killed Wen Qiushi?"

    On hearing the news, raging fury erupted uncontrobly, "Killing a person of this Young Master, it seems he really doesn''t consider me a threat. Having received the imperial edict twice, he really thinks he''s a high official of the court. He''s just a third-rank official after all!"

    "Young Master, he''s too arrogant. We can kill him, but what gives him the right to kill our people!"

    Yin Hanwen, having witnessed the entire process, grew increasingly hateful, "You didn''t see it in the martial contest just now. In order to have enough time to kill Brother Wen, he even, even jammed Brother Wen''s mouth with his spear first¡­ Young Master, if he dares to kill Wen Qiushi today, he will dare to kill me tomorrow! And eventer¡­ it''s not impossible for him to rebel.

    "Young Master, this man must not be left alive, he will definitely be a major threat to our Great Sheng Dynasty!"

    "Despicable, despicable!"

    "If it were me just now, even if I couldn''t kill him, I could have at least won this stage of thepetition. It''s just that I was shot by an arrow while on the mountain and got injured."

    He too had achieved the Refining Internal Organs Perfection, just a thread away from Hua Jin.

    He was behind a tree on the mountain,pletely unguarded, and that''s how he had been shot by an arrow.

    "You''re saying he killed Wen Qiushi within five rounds?"

    Once Cao Fan calmed down, he became even more curious about the detailed process, "Exin to me in detail, what was his spear technique like?"

    "I can''t recognize it; it''s unlike any spear technique used in the Great Sheng Army."

    Yin Hanwen recalled carefully, but with his understanding, it was hard to exin clearly, "Young Master, there''s no need, right? With your power and influence, you can easily crush him no matter what. Is it necessary to understand the routines of his spear technique?"

    "The tform is akin to a battlefield; when facing the enemy, how can one afford to underestimate the opponent?"

    After all, Cao Fan was a member of the Imperial Family, naturally endowed with an inherent disdain for others, which was normal given his status, but it didn''t mean he would be careless or underestimate his opponent; these two aspects did not conflict.

    He spoke in a deep voice, "This man hase this far, not solely by luck. His spear technique must be extraordinary.

    "Although theoretically, I have a realm suppression over him, it''s still best to know both the enemy and myself, to prevent capsizing in a ditch."

    "The Young Master truly has the wisdom of an emperor!"

    Yin Hanwenmented, "It''s just that I really couldn''t make it out."

    "Hmm."

    Cao Fan did not me him but looked towards Pei Tiannan on the city wall, muttering to himself, "If Governor Pei could exin it to me, that would be great."

    At the Martial Saint Realm, observing lower realm martial artists, one could generally see through their cultivation technique, regardless of how exquisite it might be, at least understanding the opponent''s general approach, so as not to be caught off guard in actualbat, able to seek out ws more calmly and find an opportunity to win.

    Unfortunately, he didn''t dare to seek help, worried about leaving a bad impression on Sun Xiangzong, needing to remain respectful until he got the method to breakthrough above Martial Saint.

    "Enough!"

    Cao Fan leaned on his Azure Dragon Crescent Saber, "I''ll just be more cautious, and ultimately there''s still realm suppression, winning shouldn''t be a problem."

    He was nning to find a ce to rest when an armored soldier approached with a voice as faint as a mosquito''s, "Young Master, the general asks for your presence, he says¡­"

    "Oh?"

    Cao Fan''s eyes brightened, and he immediately followed the soldier away.

    ...

    "It''s really unexpected."

    "At first, our house thought the final match would be between the Young Master and Lu Shuhua."

    "It''s already over."

    Pei Tiannan spoke solemnly, "Although this Mr. Chen is unmatched in the same realm, he can''t possibly be a match for the Young Master. The difference between a small achievement and perfection in Refining Internal Organs is as vast as Blood Refiningpared to Bone Training. Really, whether this final martialpetition urs or not doesn''t matter, let alone the final bone-touching."

    "It''s fine to take a look."

    Mr. Hou said.

    "I think, oveing realms to win should be equivalent to two ss A."

    Sun Xiangzong suddenly spoke, "What do you two think?"

    "It should indeed be so."

    Pei Tiannan said, with relief, "If Mr. Chen can truly defeat the Young Master, counting it as two ss A wouldn''t hurt."

    "Indeed."

    Mr. Hou agreed, "But if that''s how we calcte, wouldn''t both end up with six ss A after the bone-touching, with even scores? But isn''t there only one champion?"

    Sun Xiangzong responded, "Then we''ll recognize two."

    "Two, Lord Governor, that might not be quite appropriate?"

    Pei Tiannan spoke in an inquiring tone, "The champion leader of Selected Point is primarily about the allocation of resources. Over the years, the champions of Selected Point have always had sufficient treasure medicines.

    "These treasure medicines are often several hundred to a thousand years old, and harvesting one means one less remains, even the court is in short supply, so how can they spare a second portion?"

    Over the years, the champions of Selected Point, though true disciples of the Supervisor, were none other than talents fully cultivated by the court, and they were all trained with the aim of bing Martial Saints, or at the very least, Generals of the Profound Image Realm.

    Therefore, there is an unwritten rule.

    After the Selected Point, Inner Sect disciples also have the opportunity to continuepeting with the champion leader in military achievements, realm, and so on.

    The logic is simple.

    This is the army of the court, not of the Sect Disciples.

    In the Jianghu Sect, as long as the Sect Master likes a disciple and can suppress the Elders, resources are freely given, even ifter it turns out to be a wastrel.

    But it''s not the same with the army, the army is meant forbat.

    If you receive resources, you must make a corresponding contribution.

    If you hold the best resources but fail to perform ordingly, you can be reced by Inner Sect disciples with superior constitutions.

    For both True Disciples and Inner Sect Disciples, it''s a form of spur and incentive; one cannot lie on past glories to sustain oneself.

    There have been sessful recement examples in the past.

    Tang Ruoshan was originally an Inner Sect disciple when he firstpeted in Selected Point, and the then arrogant chief true disciple lost a battle and was reced by him.

    Besides, Selected Pointpetitions can only determine martial prowess, not the character; subsequent disposition is equally crucial in not granting true inheritance.

    There was once a champion of Selected Point, just an entry-level disciple within a year, who began forcefully abducting local women, naturally, his ce was also reced by someone else.

    No matter how you look at it, resources are limited; there can only be one True Inheritor.

    "I''m getting old, this is myst time taking disciples, what does it matter if I take one more?"

    Sun Xiangzong spoke indifferently, "Besides, who needs medicine more than the Cao Family Members?"

    "It seems that Supervisor Sun is quite fond of Mr. Chen."

    Pei Tiannan, being at the Martial Saint Realm himself, had early noticed that the spear technique was not one of the threemon sets circted in the military, and such has never been seen even in Jianghu; it was apletely new spear technique.

    How many people in the world could create their own Cultivation Technique, and amongst those, who used a spear?

    Upon thinking, he understood.

    He did not retort but smiled and said, "Let''s do as Lord Governor says, it is sensible and reasonable."

    "Reasonable, indeed reasonable."

    Mr. Hou nodded in agreement, "Being able to win across realms, if it was treated the same as fighting opponents of the same realm, it would seem unfair."

    While both of them spoke, their expressions were exceptionally rxed.

    The fondness of the Supervisor mattered not when the gap in real power wasid out like this.

    A small achievement of Nine Dragon Body in Refining Organ against a Refining Organ Perfection of Dragon Heart Tiger Bone could never win.

    Even Sun Xiangzong couldn''t cheat in this situation.

    As the final contest approached, the Martial Arts Arena gradually became quieter, everyone eagerly anticipating this duel.

    Enjoy more content from empire

    Even several Main Generals participated when they were avable.

    After all, the victor would be their Junior Sect Brother.

    Officially, regardless of the Inner Sect, Outer Sect, or True Disciples, privately they can refer to each other as Sect brothers, but only True Disciples are ranked in a sequence.

    Sun Buqi paced back and forth, his palms sweaty: "Can he win?"

    "It''s tough!"

    Meng Guangxin bluntly said, "Cao Fan prides himself but has always trained hard in martial arts, and he is not someone who underestimates his adversaries. That Junior Sect Brother Chen, he has a very small chance of winning."

    "What are we to do?"

    Sun Buqi spoke anxiously, "We can''t seriously let Cao Fan be a disciple to my father, can we?"

    He was usually sluggish, but he was not foolish.

    The feud between the Sun Family and the Cao Family, was he unaware of it?

    But such are the rules of Selected Point; the victor gains the lineage.

    This time, there was quite a sentiment that the Cao Family intended topletely devour the Sun Family.

    "Senior Brother Seven!"

    Sun Buqi approached his seventh brother, Ye Fengxiu, who was pale and slender in a tight-fitting martial outfit, subtly having a gender-neutral feature: "Can''t you think of something?"

    Senior Brother Seven, Ye Fengxiu, remained silent with his eyes closed.

    "Senior Brother Two!''

    "Even though I also despise the Cao Family, the difference in our realms is clear, what can we do?"

    Senior Brother Two, with a portly figure, looked like a restaurant owner: "I have no solution."

    "Senior Sister Nine!"

    Senior Sister Nine, Rong Yanqiu, the only female among all the disciples under the Supervisor excluding his biological daughter Sun Li and a rare female General in the world.

    In appearance, she seemed to be in her thirties, obviously a soldier but heavily made up and ostentatiously dressed, she toyed with a plum blossom: "This Junior Sect Brother is quite handsome, Senior Sister likes him too, but seriously, I don''t have the ability to interfere much, I can''t go on stage and help him cheat, can I?

    "Why don''t you plead with the eldest, he knows much, maybe he has a way to counter Cao Fan''s saber technique."

    "Eldest Senior Brother¡­"

    Sun Buqi looked around but couldn''t find the robust Lu Ji, "Forget it, seeking him won''t help either."

    "I''ll go!"

    In the end, it was Senior Brother Five, Meng Guangxin who stood up, cursing, "I really don''t want to be called Sect brothers with Cao Family''s folk; just the thought disgusts me, disgusts me!"

    Rong Yanqiu shouted, "You reckless monk, don''t lead our Junior Sect Brother astray!"

    Today is thest contest of Selected Point.

    They had just arrived back in Liangzhou, especially for this viewing.

 Chapter 130 Battle for the Championship

    "Chen Sansi!"

    Chen Sansi, who had his eyes closed to regain his energy, was awakened by someone calling his name. Upon opening his eyes, he saw a bald monk with arge beard, incongruously wearing armor.

    He had heard Sun Buqi mention this person before. The man was Sun Dushi''s fifth disciple, named Meng Guangxin, who had be a monk at a young age butter discovered that Buddhism could not save people, so he joined the military to practice martial arts.

    "I''ve seen General Meng."

    Out of courtesy, Chen Sansi stood up and saluted with his fist: "General, what brings you here to seek me out?"

    "Amitabha, Amitabha."

    Meng Guangxin recited the Buddha''s name twice in session: "Myself hase to teach you how to defeat that Cao fellow!"

    Chen Sansi asked, "General Meng, is this not against the rules?"

    "What rules would this be viting? Offstage coaching is very normal. Many people had their elders with them in the previous bouts. You just didn''t notice!"

    Meng Guangxin held his Crescent Moon Spade in hand: "If you master my thirty-six moves of ''Merciful and Ultimate Transcending Staff Technique,'' I guarantee you can defeat that Cao fellow!"

    As he spoke, he began to demonstrate pile work and killing moves on the spot.

    With each move he executed, the nearly tangible Gang Qi left huge pits on the ground. Soon, the area within a hundred steps was pockmarked and the dust filled the air.

    "Thank you for your goodwill, General,"

    Chen Sansi tried to stop him in vain: "But how can I apply what is learned so hastily now? It''s toote, isn''t it?"

    "That''s true."

    Meng Guangxin touched his bald head: "Forget your spear technique and use these three moves I taught¡­"

    "Monk!"

    A somewhat soft and gentle voice rang out.

    Senior Brother Seven, Ye Fengxiu, arrived in time and scolded in a sinister tone: "Monk, don''t mislead the young here! Your methods, without ten or eight years of cultivation, simply cannot produce any effective results."

    "Yin Yang Man, what do you suggest we do?"

    Meng Guangxin raised his voice: "With Cao Fan''s Dragon Heart Tiger Bone and the gap in realms between them, how can he win without taking a less conventional approach?"

    "Don''t listen to him, he''s brainless,"

    Ye Fengxiu''s tone was unemotional, yet his words carried patience: "Cao Fan practices the ''Golden Crow Heavenly Dragon Saber Technique,'' which the Emperor Martial Sect personally created. Its hallmark is its ferocity ¨C extreme ferocity ¨C and coupled with his gifted physique, he has virtually no match in the same realm.

    "In fact, even that Lu Shuhua would likely struggle to win against him in the end.

    "As for you, if you want to lose less embarrassingly, the best way would be to spar with someone who has also practiced the ''Golden Crow Heavenly Dragon Saber Technique,'' but unfortunately, this technique is a secret of the Imperial Family and never taught to outsiders.

    "So, we can''t really help you,"

    "Heh!"

    Meng Guangxin swirled his prayer beads: "Yin Yang Man, you are quite talkative today, more than you''ve said in a whole year put together. It seems you don''t want that Cao surname to win either."

    Ye Fengxiu snorted coldly, not paying him any attention, and gave Chen Sansi a slight nod as a sign of encouragement before he left.

    "Thank you, General,"

    Chen Sansi called out to the departing figure in gratitude.

    "Mr. Chen."

    Yan Changqing also came over, his expressionden with worry: "You should give up your im. You killed Wen Qiushi, and Cao Fan likely wants not only to defeat you, but also to take your life. If you admit defeat now, you''ll still be an Inner Sect Disciple."

    "Mr. Yan, there''s no need to worry on my behalf,"

    Chen Sansi responded calmly: "I have my own ns."

    Ever since his time in Po Yang, his goal had been to join Selected Point and secure a good ranking. Havinge this far, how could he possibly give up?

    Besides, even if he did give up, Cao Fan would not let him off the hook.

    And most importantly,

    Cao Fan''s saber is fierce.

    But his spear is no less fierce!

    "Well said!"

    Meng Guangxin apuded: "My Buddha does not ferry cowards!"

    "Sigh."

    Yan Changqing heaved a sigh: "Onest reminder, I just saw Cao Fan leave. If he leaves at this juncture, it''s possible he''s gone to seek guidance. He appears arrogant, but he is actually very meticulous and won''t give you a chance by underestimating you. Be careful."

    As their conversation ended, the rest period concluded.

    War drums began to beat from all directions around the Martial Arts Arena.

    Chen Sansi and Cao Fan each stepped onto the stage.

    The final bout took ce on thergest stage at the center of the Martial Arts Arena. With over fifty thousand spectators present for the battle, it was a spectacle of immense proportions.

    "My sister Li is also here,"

    Rong Yanqiu looked at his female junior clothed in a red martial arts outfit, reaching out to pinch her cheek: "Your skin is getting smoother the more you practice martial arts, almost as if water could be squeezed out. Haven''t you been secretly using expensive skincare ingredients?"

    Sun Li didn''t evade, letting her counterpart do as they pleased while her cool voice carried a hint of concern: "Senior brothers and sisters, can our Junior Brother Sansi win?"

    She had just apanied Sister Lan before rushing over.

    The senior brothers and sisters all shook their heads.

    "I heard he has a mortal feud with Cao Fan." Enjoy more content from empire

    Sun Li looked in the direction of the stage: "That person has had a strong vengeful spirit since childhood. It wouldn''t matter if he can''t win, but I hope no further idents happen."

    "Yo~"

    Hearing this, Rong Yanqiu teased: "No wonder Senior Brother Four said our little junior sister is about to get married. I didn''t believe it at first, but it seems to be true."

    "Getting married?"

    Sun Li was slow to catch the implication, but as she realized the meaning of the words, she hurried to exin: "Senior Sister Nine, what nonsense are you saying? He is our junior brother and the person who saved my life; isn''t it natural for me to be worried?"

    "The two aren''t mutually exclusive."

    Rong Yanqiu held her slim waist, whispering into her ear with a breathy voice: "What are you shy about, sister? It''s perfectly normal for a girl to get married. Let sister tell you, that sort of thing is quite interesting. Once you learn it, you''ll always be wanting¡­"

    "Senior Sister Nine!"

    Sun Li, not one to blush easily, ended up with reddened cheeks and quickly dodged aside: "Can you... not be like this?"

    "Alright, alright, don''t worry,"

    Rong Yanqiu no longer teased her: "With your senior sister here, I''ll go myselfter and ensure that Cao Fan can''t hurt a single hair on him."

    The sound of the war drums became more urgent.

    Upon the city walls, Pei Tiannan and Marquis Hou regarded the scene below with keen interest. Even Sun Xiangzong, who had seemed as if he were merely basking in the sun since the start of Selected Point, sat up straight.

    ...

    The stage.

    Chen Sansi leaned on his spear as he stood.

    Opposite him was the sturdy-framed Princely Heir Cao Fan, brandishing the Azure Dragon Crescent de in his hand.

    Both of their weapons had been reced.

    As a result, Cao Fan was unable to wield the world-famous weapon in his hand.

    The greatest pressure on Chen Sansi came from the Refining Internal Organs Perfection and the Blood Explosion State.

    In the Blood Explosion State, one could even forget pain for a short while, entering apletely frenzied state, withbat power soaring.

    Chen Sansi still vividly remembered how, back in Po Yang, Han Cheng was the first tounch a sneak attack, stabbing Tang Ming in the heart, yet in the end, Han was beaten into a grave injury.

    This was the most direct manifestation of the gap between Refining Internal Organs Perfection and small achievement.

    Chen Sansi''s biggest reliance, however, was on the Frenzy of the Unity Spear Technique and the Qilin''s Heart.

    "Chen Sansi!"

    Cao Fan squinted his eyes, speaking in a deep voice, "Out of consideration for Grandpa Emperor''s appreciation of you, sever your arms and then abolish your cultivation. I''ll spare your life."

    "..."

    Chen Sansi did not have the habit of chatting before taking action.

    "You dare to ignore me?"

    Cao Fan gripped the hilt of his long de tightly, "Fine, it seems you''re really tired of living. Use your blood to establish my authority in the Eight Camps!"

    "Boom¡ª¡ª"

    As soon as the dulled sound of a gong struck, a blood-red serpent ferociously emerged, swiftly reaching in front of the heart in the blink of an eye.

    "ng!"

    As if Cao Fan had been prepared all along, he was not in the least intimidated by the sudden appearance of the serpent. The Azure Dragon Crescent de appeared at just the right position, sending the serpent flying far away with a direct sh.

    A terrifying power transmitted along the shaft of the spear to his arms, Chen Sansi activated the blood of the Dragon and Elephant, and with the enhancement of the Nine Dragon Living Veins, his body became agile to a bizarre extent. He thrust his spear in an almost twisted posture.

    Once again, the opponent easily parried.

    After two ineffective moves, Cao Fan began to counterattack. He had no intention of probing for weakness, never nning to give any opportunity, but instead used his full strength, entering the Blood Explosion State!

    Within his chest, a Dragon Heart began to beat furiously. With the heart''s pumping, the blood began to circte at an unbelievable speed until it spread throughout the Eight Extraordinary Meridians and all over his body.

    Cao Fan''s eyes turned blood red, and his body abruptly swelled, erging by more than two sizes, ripping his fitting clothes and revealing the beast-like, pridefully built muscles underneath. At this moment, the human body broke through its natural limits, with strength, speed, and reaction time all multiplying manifold!

    His Azure Dragon Crescent de descended from the sky as if it were not a de, but a Golden Crow that had smashed the sun down from the heavens!

    "Boom!!!"

    With a single exchange.

    Chen Sansi finally understood why almost everyone thought he would lose. Dragon Heart Tiger Bone, Refining Internal Organs Perfection¡ªeach of these was a tremendous advantage!

    Unlike any opponent he had faced before.

    This sense of oppression was second only to the time he faced Amugu from the Meridian Passage Realm.

    The difference was that this time he could not resort to using Immortal Treasures to cheat; he could only rely on his own strength to win.

    With every fall of the Azure Dragon Crescent de.

    The long spear wailed incessantly, swinging back and forth with terrifying amplitude, as if it would snap at any moment, Chen Sansi continuously parried the attacks while constantly seeking opportunities to counterattack using theprehensive characteristics of the Unity Spear Technique. Oddly enough, the opponent seemed to be very familiar with his spear technique, leaving no opportunity at all.

    It was as if someone had demonstrated the Unity Spear Technique to him before the fight started.

    If it were any other Martial Artist with only a small achievement in Refining Internal Organs under such onught, there would certainly be no chance ofsting even one round.

    Even with Chen Sansi''s strength, to continue enduring like this, he probably couldn''t hope to win by simply ousting the opponent''s Qi-Blood as before.

    Because this was the Princely Heir!

    He was the future of the Imperial Family!

    The resources he used for his physique and cultivation were the best in the world.@@novelbin@@

    If there were no differences from other Martial Artists, that would truly be odd.

    The advantage of Qi-Blood still existed; there was no doubt he surpassed the opponent in that regard. Now that the initial few rounds had been endured, dragging the fight out would inevitably lead to counterattacking sess.

    The problem was, now was different from usual. The opponent didn''t need to kill him; the moment he left the arena, he would lose. He had to ensure he stayed within a certain range, which undoubtedly increased the difficulty.

    Fortunately for Chen Sansi, he also possessed the Qilin''s Heart!

    With each strike of the opponent''s de, his arms ached terribly, but his understanding of the Golden Crow Saber Technique became one step clearer. Continuing like this, just right, within about thirty rounds, he would figure out each and every move of the opponent.

    This was a feeling that was hard to describe with words.

    It was like solving a difficult problem; one needed to simte various methods of solution in their mind.

    It was likeposing a piece of music, where every strike of the de was a note. Once enough notes were collected to form aplete melody, it would be possible to fully understand the opponent through the score andunch aprehensive counterattack.

    "ng ng ng ng ng¡ª¡ª"

    Under the setting sun.

    Above the arena.

    It was as if a ferocious sr dragon was relentlessly pounding on a blood-red serpent.

    Dragon against serpent.

    The suppression was unquestionable!

    Even those non-versed in martial arts could see this clearly.

    "Excellent saber technique!"

    "Excellent spear technique!"

    Up on the city walls, Mr. Hou and Pei Tiannan expressed their admiration.

    "To have achieved such mastery at such a young age, both of these men have immeasurable futures ahead!"

    "Still, Mr. Chen is bound to lose, mainly due to the suppression by realm. A small achievement in Refining Internal Organs cannot enter the Blood Explosion State. Otherwise, the oue of this battle would really be hard to predict."

    "Now that you mention it, even I feel a bit of pity."

    "Ten rounds¡ªI think Mr. Chen won''t be able to hold on after the tenth round. Either he will choose to leave the arena, or he will fall heavily injured or even dead at the hands of the Princely Heir."

    "Hmm?"

    Pei Tiannan ced back the teacup he had just lifted, "Mr. Hou, your judgment is incorrect. Look for yourself; although Mr. Chen has been in a suppressed state all along, that''s all there is to it. He hasn''t fallen into a greater disadvantage."

    "Such immense Qi-Blood?"

    Mr. Hou said in astonishment.

    When facing High Realm Martial Artists, those at a lower realm often need to mobilize more Qi-Blood to make up for the disparity, thus their consumption is also extremelyrge.

    But Chen Sansi still managed to maintain his stance under such powerful suppression. How fearsome must his Qi-Blood foundation be?

    "Good! This Marquis would like to see just how much longer he canst!"

 Chapter 131 Chief True Inheritor

    ```

    "Boom!"

    The Golden Crow zed like the sun, the Heavenly Dragon plummeted to the ground.

    Chen Sansi once again caught that mountain-copsing strike, his footprints even denting the rocks beneath him. The strength of Blood Explosion was truly terrifying; without breaking the opponent''s move first, there was simply no way to confront it head-on, even defending was a struggle.

    "You can actually hold on!"

    Amazed, Cao Fan eximed with his crimson eyes wide open, "This princely heir has never encountered a Nine Dragon Body before. I''ve heard that the Qi-Blood cultivated by this physique is incredibly enduring, yet I did not expect it to this extent!"

    Before the martial arts battle began, someone had demonstrated the Unity Spear Technique to him several times, so he truly knew his enemy and himself. There was no way he could lose this match!

    A series of weapon shes thundered one after another like explosive thunder.

    Some of the lower-level individuals watched with hearts pounding in fear.

    In the current situation, if there were any slight mistakes, there would be no time to concede ¨C they would be cleaved to death on the spot!

    "Such a heavy killing intent."

    Cheng Wei, the second senior brother, clicked his tongue, "It seems like Young Master is absolutely determined to kill Mr. Chen."

    "Isn''t that the truth."

    ying with a plum blossom, Rong Yanqiumented, "In my opinion, it would be wise for Chen to look for an opportunity to jump off the ring as soon as possible."

    "Senior Sister Nine!" Sun Li said anxiously.

    "Alright, alright, what''s the rush? Can''t I keep an eye on him? Little girl, you sure know how to worry about someone."

    As she spoke, Rong Yanqiu walked towards the ring.

    "Sis?"

    Sun Buqi looked at his older sister, sensing something was off, "What are you up to, you want Shanshi to be my brother-inw?"

    Sun Li red at him with a huff, "Get lost."

    Ye Fengxiu leaned against a pir, silent.

    "It''s a sure loss."

    Meng Guangxin carrying his Crescent Moon Spade said, "If Cao Fan wins, tonight, I''ll find an opportunity to kill him!"

    Cheng Wei immediately said, "Are you crazy? Do you have a death wish?"

    Meng Guangxin ground his teeth and hissed, "What good is life? If that Cao is going to call me ''brother'' every day, I might as well just die! Not a single person from the Cao Family is good."

    "My fifth brother, I implore you to be merciful in the name of Buddha; do not act rashly."

    "Killing Cao Family members is the greatest mercy!"

    "..."

    Sun Buqi, looking at the tense scene on the tform, felt an unexpected sliver of hope rise within him amid the initial panic, "Is there a possibility that we all underestimated Shanshi and he... might win?"

    "Boom!"

    The Golden Crow eclipsed the sky, making it nearly impossible to block its fierce de.

    Chen Sansi was thrown back more than a dozen steps by the overwhelming force until he drew upon the blood of the dragon and elephant in his legs, creating a dent in the ground to barely stabilize his stance.

    "The sixteenth round!"

    He counted silently in his mind.

    With no time to even catch his breath, the Golden Crow''s great de descended once more from the heavens, and the blood-red python desperately dodged back and forth, looking like prey facing its natural predator.

    Yet, no matter how fiercely the Golden Crow and Heavenly Dragon pursued, they could only injure the python, never seeding in killing it.

    Cao Fan''s expression grew more and more serious.

    Losing was out of the question.

    However, killing the opponent or crippling him would be extremely difficult in the short term.

    Moreover, if the opponent knew he was outmatched and still persisted, what was the point? Could it be he had some kind of reliance?

    As Cao Fan pondered, his Azure Dragon Crescent in hand did not stop, its light shing continuously as if a true Azure Dragon had descended.

    "I can''t keep dragging this out."

    He could maintain his Blood Explosion State for about sixty rounds, but after that, even he would be exhausted.

    Yet, nearly twenty rounds had gone by, and Chen still seemed as resilient as at the start,

    He appeared close to copse but would not break his defense or expose hisst w to bepletely defeated, as if he was unkible.

    Cao Fan could not afford to be careless.

    His goal shifted from killing Chen to forcing him off the ring.@@novelbin@@

    He must win first!

    im victory first, and then he could always find another opportunity to eliminate his opponentter. His objective for this trip was the technique from Sun Xiangzong to break through to a level Above Martial Saint; he could not afford to be sidetracked and confuse priorities.

    Thinking this, Cao Fan changed his strategy, and every move of his Azure Dragon Crescent was not aimed to kill, but to st his opponent off the ring, the effect bing remarkably evident.

    Because, rather than retreat, his opponent would take more strikes unwilling to give ground!

    Clearly, he had no intention of losing this match, even if it meant death!

    As a result, he fell into even greater disadvantage, giving Cao Fan more opportunities to attack.

    Explore more stories with empire

    "Good, unwilling to step down, you will only die a more miserable death!"

    Cao Fan finally discovered his opponent''s greatest weakness and let out a bestial roar of excitement. His Blood Explosion State intensified, shortening from sixty rounds to fifty.

    But he had enough confidence that, if Chen Sansi continued to stubbornly resist, he would undoubtedly die within forty rounds!

    "Mr. Chen is truly going all out."

    On the city wall, Pei Tiannan was so engrossed that he forgot to drink the tea he held up to his lips, "He has indeed exceeded my expectations, to cultivate such enduring Qi-Blood at such a young age."

    "His Qi-Blood canst quite a while, but that''s under actualbat conditions. The limited space of the ring does not offer much room for him to buy time."

    "If Mr. Chen confines himself to a certain area, he loses his greatest advantage and can hold on for at most ten more rounds; by then, even if he wants to jump off the ring, it would be toote."

    "He must be willing to risk his life, truly insane."

    Mr. Hou couldn''t quite understand.

    Rong Yanqiu arrived below the tform.

    Even as a Profound Image Realm Main General, the sight unnerved her, as it truly was a life-and-death struggle. From Chen''s figure, she vaguely sensed an aura akin to that of a frenzied demon.

    ```

 Chapter 132 Immortal Law

    ```

    "Wait a moment!"

    Pei Tiannan challenged, "Mr. Chen, why did you conceal your physique, you''re suspected of cheating!"

    "Marquis Pei, a lofty Martial Saint, surely can''t be unaware that the Transformation and Mysterious Body unfolds gradually as the realm improves?"

    Fang Qingyun exined, "When the Selection Officer went to fetch him, what he disyed was indeed the Nine Dragon Body."

    "The most crucial point, isn''t cheating supposed to involve falsifying one''s physique, like mistaking the Sword Heart Body for the Tongjian Body, which if not scrupulously distinguished can be confused, and the early stage cultivation strength wouldn''t differ much, using this method to snatch a ss A rating?"

    "Who would report a worse physique than they possess, isn''t that just asking for a loss?"

    "You!"

    Pei Tiannan was at a loss for words.

    "..."

    Cao Fan''s face darkened withplexity.

    On one hand, he was slightlyforted that he had not lost to a mere Nine Dragon Body.

    On the other, he had truly lost.

    And it was like lifting a rock only to drop it on his own feet!

    Originally, both could have be True Inheritors.

    If he had known earlier...

    "Lord Governor."

    Pei Tiannan wiped his face and said with a beaming smile, "What about taking on two this year?"

    "Xiao Pei, you can talk nonsense, that''s fine,"

    Sun Xiangzong replied in a calm tone, "But with so many watching, I can''t mimic you."

    "..."

    Pei Tiannan''s mouth twitched, "Commander, you make a fair point!"

    At this stage of events, how could he not understand?

    Theycked insight to see through clothes and recognize the Transformation and Mysterious Body, but Sun Xiangzong probably knew it clear from the start of thepetition!

    He even sneakily gave them a chance, which they declined themselves!

    With this turn of events, even if the Cao Family learned the whole truthter, they would have nothing to say.

    And the more prestigious the identity, the more they must abide by the rules, at least outwardly, as they need to maintain their prestige before so many warriors.

    "How cunning!"

    Born in the Imperial Pce, Mr. Hou was well-versed in the art of maniption; he was simply unable to think due to the opponent''s irresistible martial power before.

    Now that he hade to his senses, they were all yed, the surname Sun had banked on their unwillingness to yield.

    The one fortunate thing in this misfortune.

    It was Chen Sansi, who could be considered the emperor''s man; likely if he ever acquired any Immortal Law, he would be willing to dedicate it to the court.

    This loyal individual would also remember the emperor''s grace, after all, the emperor was the first to recognize him, conferring titles and medicine upon him.

    ''The emperor truly has the skill to know and employ people!''

    Mr. Hou sighed with emotion.

    "Princely Heir, I''ve done all I could."

    Sun Xiangzong approached, deliberately patting his shoulder, speaking amiably, "But there have been cases of those from the Inner Sect being promoted to True Inheritors in previous years, thou should strive for it!"

    "Thank... you for the tip, Commander!"

    Cao Fan cupped his fists, his thoughtsplex, yet he remained outwardly respectful.

    "Alright, disperse now."

    Fang Qingyun pushed the wheelchair, "Little junior brother, go back and recover well, return after seven days for the entry-level ceremony, I am the fourth, just call me Fourth Senior Brother."

    Chen Sansi nodded, "I understand, Fourth Senior Brother."

    "Also,"

    Fang Qingyun spoke earnestly, "Little junior brother, after your victory, many wille to you, some with good intentions and some not, you must judge for yourself."

    "Thank you for the warning, Senior Brother."

    Walking out of the Military City.

    Various officials had been waiting there for a long time.

    "Mr. Chen! Would you honor my humble abode with a visit?"

    "Sir, the Immortal Crane Tower invites you!"

    "General Chen, I have a granddaughter, she could be a concubine to you."

    "..."

    Winning the Selection Point, with the Body of Martial Saint, would be equivalent to being the Martial Arts Top Schr in the Capital City.

    It meant that, given time, even if he were as slow on the uptake as Meng Guangxin, he was still guaranteed to be a main general of the Profound Image Realm at the very least.

    The main generals of the Eight Camps are all Second-rank officials, with some achieving a first-rank noble title for their merits; naturally, many seek to currying favor and ingratiate themselves.

    Chen Sansi declined them all.

    He did notck wealth; these people could not offer him any resources, so there was no need for these connections yet.

    Now that he had won the Selection Point, Chen Sansi started to n the step-by-step goals he would need to achieve next in his mind.

    Firstly, it was naturally to learn from a master. To find a method to break through Above Martial Saint was optimal; who wouldn''t want to see a bigger world, although it was still far off.

    Secondly, to improve his strength to Refining Internal Organs Perfection as soon as possible, and then to Hua Jin.

    In Liangzhou, the mere strength of Refining Internal wasn''t enough.

    Let alone the fact that he had offended many, all high-ranking officials from noble families, who were all waiting to take his life, only refraining due to rules for now.

    But whether they could restrain themselves after the Selection Point controversy subsided was uncertain.

    Moreover, it seemed that not all in the Eight Camps were of one mind.

    Recalling the finalpetition, Chen Sansi distinctly felt that Cao Fan had some understanding of the Unity Spear Technique; it was possible that someone had demonstrated it to him a few times.

    That was normal; even blood brothers squabble over the division of inheritance, let alone martial brothers¡ªit''smon to be calcting, only united fronts are suspicious.

    He would need to be wary going forward.

    Thirdly, to investigate the Witch God Sect and the dark energy.

    What the Witch God Sect was doing with their capture of Martial Artists, including the Blood Sacrifice, the ultimate purpose was still unknown.

    Why Dark Mystical Energy appeared on a martial artist and whether it was rted to the Poisonous Beast in the mountains.

    Case by case, item by item, all needed to be slowly resolved.

    Furthermore, there was something even more important; he was about to be a father.

    After the Selection Point ended, atst, he had time to spend a few days with Sister Lan, and he could also take the opportunity to visit the Taoist Temple.

    He was not interested in gods and buddhas, but he was very interested in the gods and buddhas worshiped by martial artists.

    On the ride back home, Chen Sansi also saw an acquaintance.@@novelbin@@

    ```

 Chapter 133 Teaching Spells

    Incense.

    Incense burner!

    Heavenly purple energy!

    For a moment, Chen Sansi felt somewhat unsure of how to assess the situation.

    Setting aside the matter of the incense energy still present in the world, the main question was why an establishment as small as Ci Yun Temple would possess a treasure capable of gathering purple energy?

    What was it used for?

    If it was for enhancing cultivation, howe there was only one at Hua Jin Perfection?

    Assuming the temple master who traveled outside was in the Meridian Passage Realm, wasn''t that still too low?

    After analyzing, there were only two possibilities.

    Either the incense had just started being collected recently.

    Just like Chen Sansi, who held the Immortal Treasure, but due to the short time, had not yet achieved a high level in the Martial Arts Realm.

    Or, the burner wasn''t theirs to begin with!

    Not everyone knew Qi Observation Skill, or had a way to sense the different energies of heaven and earth. For this reason, even if the incense burner was here consuming the incense, the Taoists of Ci Yun Temple might have no idea about it.@@novelbin@@

    As to which possibility it could be, it remained unknown.

    Chen Sansi scrutinized carefully.

    The bronze incense burner''s surface was unexpectedly engraved with unknown ferocious beasts, mouths wide open, greedily consuming the incense that should belong to the divine statue ¡ª eerie, greedy, unworldly.

    "This thing could likely withstand the Abnormal Fire!"

    His heart was moved.

    But ultimately, it wasn''t his possession.

    If Ci Yun Temple knew of the incense matter, then they would definitely not sell it.

    If they didn''t know, who was collecting the incense from behind the scenes? It was better not to try anything lightly without absolute certainty of remaining undetected.

    Moreover, the most important point was that Ci Yun Temple had not provoked him, so why take something that belonged to someone else?

    Mixed thoughts mingled, eventually all suppressed.

    He would make do with the Mystical Weapon Furnace for now; perhaps it would work.

    "Brother Shi,e offer a prayer too~"

    Gu Xin beckoned, "It''s good for the child."

    "Yes, Mr. Chen."

    Shao Yujing stood up after offering prayers, "The Immortal Path is profound; we must be sincere to have a chance in the future."

    "Hmm."

    Chen Sansi did not refuse.

    If he did not pray at this time, it would appear odd.

    Through the Qi Observation Skill, he was in an active position; if someone observant noted anything unusual, he would be at a disadvantage.

    He didn''t act pretentious and performed the incense offering.

    However...

    Not a wisp of purple energy flowed from him.

    He had never believed in deities or Buddha.

    That wasn''t a problem.

    There were many insincere people at the scene; some bowed their heads with thuds but no purple energy appeared.

    After offering prayers to the divine statue, Chen Sansi and his wife descended the mountain, not forgetting to take the Mystical Weapon Furnace and told the young Taoist to collect the silver note from Chen Mansionter.

    Five thousand taels of silver notes, such arge amount, he wouldn''t carry it around aimlessly.

    Shao Yujing said, "Mr. Chen, if you are interested at the end of the month, you cane to listen to Real Person Qiu Mingzi speak about the Dao; it might help you in the future."

    "Master Shao has personally extended an invitation; naturally, I must attend."

    Chen Sansi did not refuse.

    He was very interested in the matter of the incense, getting more excuses to visit might lead to new discoveries.

    On the way home, Qian Xun came to escort.

    Chen Sansi held Sister Lan in his embrace.

    Qian Xun, apparently aware that thedy of the house was pregnant, moved with extra stability.

    Passing through a bustling street, the big characters of Red Sleeve Tower were particrly striking.

    The six-story building, apart from thest one, had dazzling women throwing flirty nces toward him, truly a tower full of beckoning red sleeves.

    "Oh, has it just been a few days, Brother Shi, and you already miss this kind of ce?"

    Gu Xin noticed his gaze.

    "No, I have serious business."

    Chen Sansi shifted his gaze away.

    Seeking Immortal Tower.

    Most likely, someone was hiding inside Red Sleeve Tower, not that the whole brothel was the Seeking Immortal Tower.

    The woman from a few nights ago, unknown how she was now.

    But if even the Supervisor couldn''t handle it, there was no use worrying about it.

    Several more days until the Mentorship Ceremony; after meeting the Supervisor, he should be able to clear everything up.

    Before that, he would continue to cultivate; whether the Mystical Weapon Furnace could withstand the Abnormal Fire needed to be slowly discovered, any majormotion at home not being noticed would be strange.

    For four days straight.

    Chen Sansi spent most of his time practicing Martial Arts besides apanying his wife.

    [Cultivation Technique: Unity Spear Technique (small achievement)]

    [Progress: 1055/2000]

    The proficiency progress had finally crossed half.

    ording to the current pace, he should achieve Great Sess of Refining in two months.

    Apart from that, these days people were still dying continuously within the Sect.

    Just not as many.

    "It''s getting weirder and weirder."

    Before he had the Qi Observation Skill, Chen Sansi was essentially blind, unable to pry into higher-level secrets.

    Up until now, he increasingly felt that everything, seemingly separate, was interconnected.

    Liangzhou, and perhaps even the entire world, might soon undergo dramatic changes.

    "My lord, Mr. Sun is here."

    Si Qin came to report.

    "I know."

    Chen Sansi got dressed with the help of Mo Hua in a new blue robe sewn by Sister Lan, habitually took his Big Bow and Reed Leaf Spear, along with the ZhenYue Sword at his waist, then boarded the carriage.

    "The Mentorship Ceremony is about to begin."

    Sun Buqi exined, "Today''s schedule involves all the True Inheritors, Inner Sect, and Outer Sect disciples together, watching this year''s new entry-level disciples perform rites, categorizing them into the Reserve Camp, then dividing their posts ording to realm and Selected Point results."

    "Reserve Camp?"

    Chen Sansi asked.

    "Yes."

    Sun Buqi nodded, "The vacancies in the Eight Camps aren''t enough, plus my father wants to expand the army, so we simplybined the disciples with the Liangzhou soldiers to form a Reserve Camp. After expanding, we''ll select personnel from this batch of disciples for the newly established four camps."

 Chapter 135 Ciyun Immortal Trace, Xuanding Alchemy!

    Due to his exceptionally tall stature, L¨¹ Ji barely squeezed into the room sideways.

    Following him was a man Chen Sansi had never seen before.

    It must be the third senior brother.

    "First senior brother, third senior brother."

    Chen Sansi got up to greet them.

    "Junior brother, the gathering was so sudden, and I didn''t have time to prepare anything,"

    L¨¹ Ji took down the case from his back.

    The case was enormous, but it seemed delicately smallpared to his size.

    Upon opening it, there was a Big Bow inside.

    The bow, however, wasn''t made of wood but of iron core, forged from mysterious iron, and was quite valuable.

    "I heard junior brother likes archery, so I got an Iron Core Bow,"

    L¨¹ Ji apologized, "But due to the rush, I couldn''t get a bowstring. If you find a suitable bowstring, this bow is a Hundred-stone Bow, I hope junior brother won''t mind."

    "I got some arrows,"

    The third senior brother Nie Yuan took out an Arrow Bag, "The arrowheads are made of mysterious iron, a bit inferior, but if you need anything else, just let me know, and I''ll get it for you."

    "How could I not appreciate such precious gifts from you two senior brothers?"

    Chen Sansi, maintaining his manners, invited them to sit down.

    "That''s more like it!"

    Meng Guangxin said contentedly, "Big brother, you''ve be more and more unreasonable over the years."

    Old Qi Ye Fengxiu remained silent.

    "Hey, monk, how can you talk to the first senior brother like that?"

    Rong Yanqiu spoke sarcastically, "After all, our big brother has been to the Capital City, he might have clung to some powerful thighs. He''s the only one among us who has be a Marquis, a noble indeed~"

    There were only a few Marquis titled by the court over these years.

    One of them was Duke Wuding, L¨¹ Ji.

    "Hah! Whose powerful thigh could it be, if not the Cao Family''s?"

    Meng Guangxin yed along, "Perhaps he even sold the bridge to the Cao Family, otherwise how would they have made him a Marquis?"

    "Old Five, Old Nine!"

    The third senior brother Nie Yuan spoke sharply, "The first senior brother has his difficulties, you..."

    "Difficulties?"

    Rong Yanqiu cut in, "What difficulties could he have, taking over the position sooner?"

    Meng Guangxin grumbled, "Exactly, if number four hadn''t been invalidated, you wouldn''t have the chance to strut about here every day!"@@novelbin@@

    Despite their bickering, L¨¹ Ji did not retort even once, instead he just picked up the wine jar he had brought and filled the cups in front of him.

    "All right, all right."

    Old Two Cheng Wei tried to mediate, "We rarely gather together, why quarrel? The first senior brother didn''t do these things secretly, even our master didn''t say anything."

    Chen Sansi had previously sensed through Sun Buqi''s words that he was unsatisfied with the first senior brother.

    Now it seemed, he wasn''t alone.

    From theirments, it appeared that they resented him because L¨¹ Ji was quite close to the Cao Family Members, possibly having a share in divesting power from the Supervisor in the past.

    Previously, Cao Fan was familiar with the Unity Spear Technique...

    I wonder if that had anything to do with the first senior brother.

    But such issues, debated openly, wouldn''t be useful and would only make things awkward for himself as a new junior.

    "Senior brothers and sisters, we''re all family here, is there anything we can''t solve?"

    Chen Sansi stood up and said, "Let me toast all of you first, bottoms up!"

    The strong spirit burned through the body.

    This was no ordinary liquor, brewed by a special method, potent enough to intoxicate even a Martial Artist.

    "Yes, exactly."

    Cheng Wei agreed, "No matter what, he is our first senior brother, I''ll finish mine too."

    "Junior brother can really hold his liquor!"

    L¨¹ Ji stood up and likewise drained his cup, "Today is the junior brother''s entry-level banquet, whatever grievances you''ve held against me all these years, let''s save them forter."

    "Tsk, junior brother, don''t be fooled, he may look burly, but he''s actually quite scheming."

    Rong Yanqiu disdainfully said, "But for today, for junior brother''s sake, I can''t be bothered to argue with you."

    "Amitabha, may Buddha redeem you soon."

    Meng Guangxin cursed as he drank.

    This brought an end to their arguments.

    Yet, the atmosphere at the table was still not harmonious, merely consisting of Chen Sansi pouring and everyone silently knocking back their drinks.

    Only after the third round did the senior brothers begin to murmur incessantly.

    "So bitter, so bitter..."

    "This battle is so dull!"

    "Over these years, how many of our brothers and senior brothers have died, and the Cao Family just discards us after use."

    "Exactly, they nearly transferred me to the Southern region, following that damn Prince Zhen Nan, isn''t it obvious they wanted to divide and conquer?"

    "Thankfully, our master used the excuse of subduing barbarians to temporarily stabilize the situation."

    "How many more of our brothers are we expected to sacrifice for the Cao Family''s benefits?"

    "Once the barbarians are defeated, it''ll still be ''when the birds are gone, the good bow is put away; once the cunning rabbit dies, the loyal dogs will be cooked!''"

    Only the master understands the higher cause, what do you guys know..."

    "..."

    This liquor was potent, several jars down, and it knocked out all the Main Generals.

    Only Chen Sansi, L¨¹ Ji, and the third senior brother Nie Yuan were still seated.

    "You must beughing at us."

    L¨¹ Ji put down his wine bowl, self-mockingly said, "Here I am, the eldest, and on our first official meeting, I get scolded by junior brothers and sisters, truly embarrassing.

    "Do you also hold the same opinions as them about me?"

    "How could I disrespect my first senior brother."

    Chen Sansi replied calmly.

    "You must have some thoughts though. Junior brother, do you understand what responsibility means?"

    L¨¹ Ji, looking at the moonlight outside the window, said sadly, "At the age of eight, my hometown went through a war, and my family all died. The master extended his hand and asked if I wanted to follow him, I nodded, and in the blink of an eye, more than thirty years have passed."

 Chapter 136 Ointment Like Elixir Pills, Temple Borrowing Incense

    Cliffside, cave.

    Chen Sansi barged into the den of an Exotic Beast, White Deer.

    "Thud! Thud! Thud!"

    In an instant, three arrows were shot out, killing the White Deer on the ground.

    "It''s mine now."

    Carrying the Zhenyue Sword, Chen Sansi brought back arge amount of firewood from outside, then filled the Mystic Iron Furnace with water from a nearby stream, and stuffed it with Spiritual Grain he had pulled from the fields.

    Finally, it was time to light a fire.

    He was somewhat nervous inside.

    If it failed again and even the Mystic Iron Furnace couldn''t withstand it, he feared that only the incense burner in Ci Yun Temple would suffice.

    "Boom¡ª"

    The moment the me touched the firewood smeared with oil, it turned into a zing red fire dragon, enveloping the entire furnace.

    "It worked!"

    Chen Sansi breathed a sigh of relief.

    Although the Mystic Iron Furnace was visibly warping and deforming under the scorching of the Abnormal Fire, it couldpletely withstand the heat for a short time without direct damage.

    He began to add arge amount of firewood.

    Usingmp oil to ignite would produce Abnormal Fire, but it consumed an extravagant amount of fuel; logs as thick as an arm had to be added one after another, and if he stopped for a moment, the fire would extinguish, necessitating a waste of moremp oil to reignite.

    If the object truly came from the Immortal Realm, it definitely would have a specific fuel type and wouldn''t be so troublesome.

    In no time, Chen Sansi had run back and forth several times fetching wood. Thankfully, there was plenty of firewood on the mountain, otherwise, there would not have been enough.

    "Hum!"

    With the roasting of the Abnormal Fire, the Mystic Iron Furnace buzzed until it began to emit wisps of blue smoke, indicating that the water inside had evaporated. He then stopped adding wood and let the mes die out.

    The whole processsted only about the time it takes to drink a cup of tea.

    When it cooled down, Chen Sansi lifted the lid of the furnace to look inside, only to find the Spiritual Grain had vanished, reced by a ck mushy substance, just like rice burnt in a cooking pot.

    He scraped some out with a stick and sniffed it at his nostrils, detecting a fragrant scent.

    "What''s this, medicine ointment?"

    Chen Sansi dared not try it rashly and instead tested it on a variety of animals,rge and small, including a Poisonous Beast wolf, quickly deducing the general pattern.

    Starting with rabbits, therger the body size, the smaller the side effects.

    By the time it was tried on a leopard, they no longer died!

    Even a brown bear remained unharmed.

    "Eat!"@@novelbin@@

    He finally pried open the mouth of the Poison Wolf.

    This time, not only did the wolf not suffer side effects, but it also became stronger and more fierce!

    Chen Sansi immediately picked up the Zhenyue Sword and chopped off its head.

    "Seems there''s no problem."

    He took a deep breath and stuffed some of the medicine ointment into his mouth.

    Instantly.

    A unique sensation spread from his abdomen, flowing through his limbs and filling his meridians.

    Chen Sansi picked up the Five Tigers Soul-breaking Spear and practiced the Hua Jing Technique.

    Hua Jing, as the name implies.

    Is about transforming the Qi-Blood in the body into Power, and this process requires maintaining a "Blood Explosion" state, understanding how to transform Qi into power through the challenge of pushing limits.

    Therefore, for the vast majority of Martial Artists, it is an extremely slow and difficult process, as they can onlyst for twenty or thirty bouts at most.

    Chen Sansi was different; he couldst for at least two hundred bouts.

    Additionally, as he cultivated, the Spiritual Rice Medicine Ointment continuously further strengthened his flesh and Qi-Blood, which provided great assistance, the effect exceeding nt Ash by more than three times!

    The meridian toxicity still existed.

    However, the ointment extracted by boiling water greatly reduced the toxicity, retaining even more essence.

    Fromte at night until dusk the next day, his proficiency increased significantly.

    [Cultivation Technique: National Guardian Dragon Spear. Hua Jing (Not Yet Entry-Level)]

    [Progress: 20/100]

    ording to the original n.

    Chen Sansi would need at least two months to achieve Hua Jing.

    But now, it would take less than a month.

    This speed, even amongst geniuses, could surpass ny-nine percent of people.

    As for Cao Fan''s Hua Jing.

    It was because he had reached Refining Internal Organs Perfection for several months,pounded with the support of the Imperial Family''s resources; it would have been abnormal if he didn''t achieve Hua Jing, and he likely had some secret moves that could improve his Cultivation.

    No matter what.

    He had solved a major problem and could now quickly achieve Hua Jing and then Meridian Passage.

    But to break through to Martial Saint within three years...

    In the mortal world, probably no more than three people could achieve it.

    The difficulty was still considerable.

    He would have to give it his all.

    "I wonder how I''d fare against a Hua Jing Warrior with my current strength,"

    "I should be able to put up a fight!"

    Chen Sansi thought to himself as he began to clean up the site.

    He took out a porcin bottle for storing elixir pills and scraped the ointment into it bit by bit.

    The Spiritual Grain he brought had nearly filled the entire furnace, yet only a thinyer of medicine ointment was produced.

    "Does this count as an Immortal Pill? Am I doing Alchemy?"

    "Probably not."

    After Chen Sansi ate the ointment, he didn''t notice any effects that could aid in the cultivation of spells, nor did a [Alchemy] proficiency panel appear before him, what increased was his proficiency in [Medical Skill].

    Read new chapters at empire

    [Skill: Medical Skill. Mortal (Mastery)]

    [Progress: 491/1000]

    Now it seems, the "Mortal" word in front is traceable, perhaps in the future, there might be a chance to cultivate the medical arts of the Immortal Realm.

    But if that''s the case.

    Why did the Immortal demand the Emperor worship with Spiritual Grain?

    Clearly, there is no Spiritual Energy in this world, and the cultivated Spiritual Grain does not contain any mystic properties. Is it possible that it''s just a kind of raw material?

    Besides, another problem arises.

    That is the Mystic Iron Furnace will be burnt out, it looks like it can be used one more time, then it will need recing.

    A furnace made of Mystic Iron would cost more than three thousand silver pieces no matter where it''s purchased, and the key issue is that Mystic Iron is an extremely precious resource. Even if one has the money, buying a furnace every now and then would eventually attract unwanted attention.

 Chapter 137 Besieging Yu Yang, Fiercely Killing Hua Jin!

    "We only have an hour left, thankfully the leader returned in time, otherwise we''d be facing military justice,"

    "Yu Yang Sect?"

    Chen Sansi whistled for his White Swan Horse while inquiring about the details on the road.

    However, Zhao Kang was just a Captain, responsible for rying messages, not privileged to know the specific ns.

    "Let''s go!"

    "Drive¡ª¡ª"

    After hurrying to the military camp, more than four thousand people had already gathered at the Martial Arts Arena.

    The Reserve Camp, totaling twelve thousand, was divided into four units: front, back, left, and right. Chen Sansi''s left unit was fully assembled, responsible for tonight''s task with Deputy General Sha Wenlong personally inmand, and Yu Song assigned to assist.

    The specificbat strategy was discussed inside the tent, only essible to those above the rank of Thousand Captain.

    Bai Thingzhi, Lu Shuhua, and Xie Sishu were all present.

    Then, it was Chen Sansi''s first meeting with Reserve Camp General, Sha Wenlong.

    Sha Wenlong, transferred from You State, was originally a fierce warrior under General Jing, sporting a rugged appearance and an eyepatch over one eye lost in battle; his weapon was a Dragon Scale Broadsword.

    His aura was even stronger than the old servant Cao Fan, indeed appearing to be of the Profound Image Realm.

    But why suddenly move against Yu Yang Sect? Could it be rted to the Witch God Sect?

    "Vice Admiral Yu! You make the announcement,"

    After speaking, Sha Wenlong leaned on his broadsword and closed his eyes to rest.

    "Yes!"

    Yu Song began:

    "Recently, the Witch God Sect Fans have been rampant, yet their traces were elusive. Suspecting some sects might be coborating with the Witch God Sect, General Sha secretly purchased disciples within several sects to act as spies, finally yielding results.

    "An Inner Sect Disciple of the Yu Yang Sect imed he saw a man in ck use a Vajra Pestle to kill someone and then not descend the mountain but instead hide in the residence of Yu Yang Sect Master, Huang Tianrong.

    "Thus, we suspect Huang Tianrong is coborating with, or perhaps is even a part of, the Witch God Sect Followers!

    "Tonight''s mission is to capture Huang Tianrong alive, and before we can ascertain how many of Yu Yang Sect disciples are in collusion, none shall escape!"

    Colluding with the Witch God Sect?

    Chen Sansi found it hard to believe.

    A third-rate sect under the given intelligence, with a sect master of entry-level Hua Jin in Liangzhou, one of the weakest forces, dared to affiliate with the Witch God Sect? Even the Jade Maiden Sect, previously nearly wiped out, was a genuine second-rate sect with the sect master in the Meridian Passage Realm.

    How many lives would they have to risk?

    Of course, it could also be coercion, like the previous case with the Golden Bell Temple, a hiding spot for the Witch God Sect.

    Only by going there would the truth be known.

    Bai Thingzhi spoke up: "Vice Admiral Yu, I have a question."

    Yu Song took out a map, slowly unfolding it on the table, and without looking up said, "Speak!"

    "Yu Yang Sect has had quite a few disciples die under mysterious circumstances recently, right?"@@novelbin@@

    Bai Thingzhi seriously said, "If they are indeed colluding with the Witch God Sect, why would so many of their disciples be killed?"

    "Obviously."

    Lu Shuhua held his sword and spoke gravely, "Merely a tactic to deceive others."

    "Brother Lu is correct,"

    Xie Sishu added, "The more they cooperate with the Witch God Sect, the more they must harshly deal with their own to prove their innocence and secure an undefeatable position."

    Bai Thingzhi thoughtfully said, "If that''s the case, then they truly deserve death."

    "General Sha."

    Yu Song, pointing at theid-out map of Liangzhou, respectfully said, "My report isplete, it''s time for you to make the deployment."

    "General Sha!"

    Lu Shuhua burst out, "Please assign me and my men to the most dangerous position!"

    "I feel the same,"

    Xie Sishu quickly followed, "I am ready to face death multiple times over."

    "Sounds noble, but aren''t you just seeking to achieve merits!"

    Bai Thingzhi bluntly stated.

    Topete for the position of True Disciple, one not only needs to surpass the current True Disciples in realm but also to umte one more B-grade military merit to initiate a challenge in the arena.

    "The General has his ns!"

    Yu Song admonished, "Your only job is to obey the orders!"

    Sha Wenlong slowly opened his eyes, moved to the map, and spoke solemnly, "Since not all Yu Yang Sect disciples are colluding with the Witch God Sect, we cannot massacre the innocent otherwise it would irreparably tarnish the reputation of the Eight Camps.

    "Therefore, tonight, the army''s main role is to encircle, not to y.

    "Handling Huang Tianrong is not your duty but will be personally undertaken by me and Vice Admiral Yu.

    "Your main tasks are to infiltrate the Yu Yang Sect with twenty men each, then capture these locations separately,"

    He said, pointing to a few locations on the map.

    Everyone looked closely and noticed that the structure of the entire Yu Yang Sect was clearly illustrated, including every separateplex and every small path, depicted in meticulous detail.

    "In each of theseplexes resides a Refining Organ Disciple, core True Disciples of Huang Tianrong.

    "If they cooperate, capture them alive and bring them down the mountain; if they do not, execute them regardless!

    "Once Huang Tianrong and these few are captured for disy, the remaining Yu Yang Sect disciples will surely not dare to resist further, minimizing the impact of this matter.

    "Did everyone understand?"

    "Command received!" Find adventures at empire

    The crowd responded in unison.

    "The issue of the Witch God Sect is crucial; if left unchecked, it might lead to great turmoil. Conversely, if we can trace through Yu Yang Sect to uncover the true masterminds behind, our Reserve Camp can im a great achievement!"

    Sha Wenlong stated, "Moreover, simply bypleting your respective tasks, you will each be credited with a C-grade battle merit."

 Chapter 138 Seeking Immortal Tower, Gaining Spiritual Energy!

    Sha Wenlong looked down at the severed heads beneath his feet, his remaining left pupil trembling slightly, as his brows furrowed even more.

    Refining Internal, killing Hua Jin?

    This wasn''t just a minor realm advancement, but a major one!

    The Sect Master of the Yu Yang Sect was truly useless.

    The question is...

    What about the Witch God Sect?

    Why didn''t the hidden Witch God Sect Followers strike?

    It wasn''t just Huang Tianrong who was killed.

    After the other sect disciples received reinforcements, they either died on the spot under a flurry of chaotic des or were captured without a struggle, daring not to resist in the slightest.

    "General Chen, you..."

    Yu Song found it even harder to believe.

    He''d thought that trouble was brewing, but it turned out to be Huang Tianrong who ran into trouble...

    Qi-Blood countering the force of Hua Jin, what did that even mean.

    After a long while, Sha Wenlong finally managed to regain hisposure, "General Chen did well. That undercover disciple revealed his own identity and almost let them escape, fortunately, General Chen, by his own power, killed the Sect Master of Yu Yang, preventing grave consequences. You deserve the greatest credit for this mission."

    "Thank you, General Sha."

    Chen Sansi sped his fist, his expressionless.

    "We did not collude with the Witch God Sect!"

    A disciple from the Yu Yang Sect roared desperately, "Your usations are merely to take control of the Daluo River for yourselves, to collect the silver!"@@novelbin@@

    "You scoundrels!"

    Yu Song kicked him twice, then took out a Vajra Pestle, "Then what is this? Found in your Sect Master''s room!"

    "..."

    Several disciples stared at the Vajra Pestle, their faces filled with disbelief.

    This item was a tool used by Witch God Sect Followers to collect Heart Blood!

    "Impossible!"

    "How could our master collude with the Witch God Sect Followers?"

    "The third elder brother who died was his favorite disciple!"

    "..."

    "Still trying to be tough? Fleeing alongside Huang Tianrong, aren''t you showing your guilt?!"

    Yu Songmanded, "Take them all back, lock them up in the death prison of Liangzhou and await their fate! Announce the severed heads of Huang Tianrong and the few dead True Disciples to the public,pel everyone to cooperate with the investigation, and whoever dares to resist shall be deemed a conspirator of the Witch God Sect and be executed without mercy!"

    They left one after another.

    Chen Sansi, however, looked at the headless corpse of Huang Tianrong, his gaze intense and unflinching for a long while.

    It wasn''t due to lingering anger.

    But rather...

    Before Huang Tianrong died, he saw a trace of ck aura on this man!

    It was exactly like the aura on Sect Leader Zhang Huaimin of the Seven Absolute Sect, justparatively much fainter.

    The reason Chen Sansi did not capture him alive but killed him in thest moment was that he feared the opponent might suddenly increase his realm just like Zhang Huaimin, which wouldplicate matters greatly.

    After all, no one would be there to help him, and he had to prioritize his own life.

    "In the end, the Witch God Sect Followers still didn''t show themselves."

    It was a puzzle to him.

    And Huang Tianrong didn''t seem to be lying; could it be that he really hadn''t colluded with the Witch God Sect and was wronged? Then what was the ck aura about?

    Ci Yun Temple...

    Chen Sansi suddenly thought of a possibility.

    Zhang Huaimin was at the Meridian Passage Realm.

    Then it was highly likely that he had also attended a Dao Conference and consumed the mysterious Nourishing Spirit Soup!

    Stay updated via empire

    Could that be the source of the ck aura in their bodies?

    But that was wrong.

    If the Immortal Elixir contained ck aura, the Qi Observation Skill should have detected it.

    At any rate..

    He needed to be even more cautious around Ci Yun Temple.

    "General!"

    Zhao Kang reported in, "The cleanup is done, shall we descend the mountain?"

    "Hmm."

    Chen Sansi nodded, leading the troops waiting at the foot of the mountain.

    The subsequent matters were not his responsibility.

    After the Reserve Camp took control of the Yu Yang Sect, they carried out a thorough three-day and three-night search, but could not find more evidence of their collusion with the Witch God Sect. In the end, they concluded that only Huang Tianrong and a few True Disciples were guilty.

    But after days of torturing the still-living disciples to death, they failed to extract a satisfactory exnation.

    Thus, the matter was left unresolved and came to an end.

    Finally, it was time for merit awards.

    Inside the tent, Sha Wenlong announced to everyone, "General Chen, for killing the enemy across a major realm, is credited as having the greatest merit for this mission and is to be awarded one ss B merit, with a reward of three thousand taels of silver!"

    "..."

    Lu Shuhua and Xie Sishu''s faces revealed their difficulty.

    Five ss C merits were equivalent to one ss B merit.

    Where would they find such opportunities to earn merit again after this? A ss A merit, which was above a ss B merit, required actual battle to obtain.

    It seemed that the position of the Chief True Inheritor was beyond their reach now.

    Moreover, Refining Internal tobat Hua Jin, even if it was only a third-rate sect''s Hua Jin, would be very difficult. Probably only Cao Fan would be able topete with this man.

    "General Chen, congrattions!"

    Lu Shuhua and Xie Sishu stepped forward to congratte him.

    Signifying that they had effectively given up on thepetition.

    "You shouldn''t have harbored any such aspirations in the first ce!"

    Bai Thingzhi bluntly said.

    After leaving, Chen Sansi once again saw Yin Han Wen and Cao Fan practicing in the Martial Arts Arena, and a strong killing intent surged within him.

    This confusion must have been instigated by someone with the surname Yin.

    Sha Wenlong was of the Profound Image Realm, so it was not a good time to kill him.

    But this dog Yin Han Wen!

    Chen Sansi didn''t want him nauseatingly flitting in front of him anymore.

    If he left Yin Han Wen alive, who knew what kind of backstabbing would ur in the future!

    The problem was, next to Yin Han Wen was an old servant at the Meridian Passage Realm.

    Chen Sansi hadn''t yet reached Hua Jin, and even if he did, it was impossible for him to kill someone at the Meridian Passage.

    But what about using a spell?

    Sword Qi Skill!

    After all, it was a spell used by Immortals; it should be able to kill a Meridian Passage Realm individual, right?

    The only issue was theck of Qingxuan Energy, or rather, Spiritual Energy!

    Seeking Immortal Tower!

    It couldn''t be avoided!

    Determined, Chen Sansi, covered in blood, returned home.

 Chapter 139 Spell Killing, Heavenly Book and Strange Weapon!

    "Brother Chen, Brother Chen!"

    After finishing a session of cultivation, Chen Sansi put down his long spear to take a short rest, only to see Yan Changqing running over excitedly, with many soldiers trailing behind him, all wearing the same expression.

    "Incredible, it''s just too incredible!"

    Yan Changqing pped his hands in amazement, "Brother Chen truly is a role model for all of us!"

    "A role model for what?"

    Chen Sansi was baffled.

    "Look at you, ying dumb is no fun."@@novelbin@@

    Yan Changqing replied with a mischievous grin, "Word has spread! Now the whole Liangzhou City knows about your romantic tale with Miss Ning Xiang!"

    "Isn''t that so."

    Xie Sishu added, "Mr. Chen, that Vajra Body of yours not only brought down the arena but also the bed. This morning, as I was preparing to leave, I personally saw the maids carrying a broken bed down from the sixth floor."

    "Hiss~"

    "The Commander is fierce in the arena, and equally ferocious in bed..."

    "..."

    Chen Sansi guessed that since he could not exin the smashed bed, he would simply have to brazenly adapt the story to ensure his identity wasn''t exposed.

    "And the half-verse poem you wrote, ''A branch of bright red beauty holds dew''s fragrance, clouds and rain over Wushan in vain for the lovelorn heart''!"

    Yan Changqing clicked his tongue, "You said you couldn''t write poetry!"

    This world had no Wushan, but fortunately, there was Wushan.

    Chen Sansi silently altered it as he wrote.

    "What about the second half!"

    "Indeed, Brother Chen, leaving a poem unfinished is not a good habit!"

    These children of officials and the wealthy, even those who practice martial arts, have been educated from a young age, some are even not inferior to literary men, but they hold power in higher regard internally.

    "With Brother Chen''s poetic talent, if you were to take the civil service examination, you would certainly achieve top honors."

    "..."

    Chen Sansi felt that if he had focused solely on reading and writing, he would definitely have found sess. Not to mention that in a ce like the Capital City, he could easily gain fame all over the world by simply copying a few poems, but it would be useless. Even if he seeded in earning fame and recognition, he would still need to employ high realm martial artists for personal protection, not to mention the possibility of cultivating to immortality in this world.

    "Still, Brother Chen, you do have one bad habit."

    Yan Changqing switched the subject, "How could you... not pay her?"

    "Exactly."

    "The word has gone out, just before you left, you even took away more than five thousand silver notes from Miss Ning Xiang, you ended up with a profit!"

    "A role model, indeed!"

    "What kind of role model, I think what General Chen did was quite inappropriate. That money was hard-earned, how could you default on it?"

    "..."

    Chen Sansi took the opportunity to slip away while they were chattering, not having time to waste. Before leaving, he also took several scrolls from the Great Library¡ªmaps of the Great Sheng Dynasty.

    There were rumors of unrest popping up everywhere; with external threats resolved, internal strife had emerged. It was likely that there would be another war soon, and the soldiers from the Reserve Camp would be deployed forbat.

    As a military leader, it was natural for him to keep maps at hand, ready to analyze the situation at any moment. Read new chapters at My Virtual Library Empire

    Calling for his White Swan Horse, before heading home, Chen Sansi made his way to the bustling Lu Hua Street, a street full of shops selling women''s jewelry, rouge, and powder. He selected the busiest shop and spent several hundred silver notes on jewelry before heading home.

    Before reaching his home, Chen Sansi could already see from afar a young Taoist in Daoist robes standing in front of the mansion.

    Ci Yun Temple hade calling again.

    "Benefactor."

    The young Taoist bowed and said, "Why didn''t the benefactor attend the sermon a few days ago?"

    Chen Sansi dismounted and said, "Little master, please convey to Taoist Qiu Mingzi that I have been busy with military dutiestely. When I have the time, I will be sure to visit and pay tribute to the Heavenly Venerate and donate incense."

    "Then Mr. Chen must not forget next time. My master says you have a connection with the Dao, and if you keep attending, you will definitely be able toprehend the Daoist Inheritance. It would be a pity to miss the opportunity."

    After another bow, the young Taoist left.

    "Have I really caught their attention?"

    Chen Sansi''s gaze deepened.

    He had made inquiries.

    In the army, there were hardly any high-level generals who visited Ci Yun Temple.

    On the one hand, it was because the men in the forces, like him, didn''t believe in these things.

    On the other hand, the Governor didn''t like it, and his subordinates naturally followed suit, so not many people visited.

    ''Does the master know the ins and outs of this?''

    ''If he knows, why hasn''t he dealt with it...''

    Small achievement in Hua Jin!

    If Chen Sansi remembered correctly, Qiu Mingzi was just someone with a small achievement in Hua Jin, and on him, Chen Sansi hadn''t detected the Qingxuan Energy or Purple Energy, but with the mysterious incense involved, who knew if he had any life-saving cards up his sleeve.

    He could only take it one step at a time. If they were truly insistent, he might have to take a risk.

    The urgent matter at hand was to break through to Hua Jin and concurrently practice the Sword Qi Skill.

    "The master has returned~"

    Si Qinmohua were both waiting at the entrance.

    Mohua led the White Swan Horse inside while Si Qin whispered, "Master, the madam is angry."

    "Because of the Red Sleeve Tower?"

    "Yes, yes."

    Si Qin nodded vigorously, "When I went to the market today and passed by the tea house, the entire street was abuzz with the news. They say that the Supervisor''s disciple, the General of Martial Virtue, famous throughout thend, visited the brothel and left without paying, and the Oiran had people searching the streets for you."

    "No worries, I''ll just exin."

    Chen Sansi pushed open the door to the bedroom.

    He saw Sister Lan, as usual, sitting at the table, her slender jade fingers deftly moving with the embroidery needle, showing no outward signs of anger.

    The more she seemed calm, the more guilty he felt and didn''t know how to start the conversation.

    "Brother Shi is back."

    In the end, it was Gu Xin who broke the silence.

    "Yes."

    Chen Sansi sat down opposite her and brought out several boxes, "On the way back, I picked out a few pieces of jewelry for you. See if you like them. If not, I''ll exchange them for new ones."

 Chapter 140 Incense Burner, Expedition to Ming State

    Refining Internal...

    How could Refining Internal kill someone in the Meridian Passage stage!

    Yin Hanwen''s expression was as if he had seen a ghost.

    It was unbelievable.

    All along, Chen Sansi hadn''t moved at all ¡ª he simply, just gently tapped with his finger!

    And then, Elder Wei was dead!

    How did he do it?

    Immortal Law!

    Immortal Law!!!

    Yin Hanwen suddenly realized.

    People always rumored that Sun Xiangzong possessed an Immortal Law.

    It seems it was true!

    And he had already passed it to Chen Sansi!

    How could this be!

    He had only started learning a few days ago?!

    Yin Hanwen, having not even a hint of resistance left, wanted to flee in utter panic.

    Chen Sansi drew the Zhenyue Sword and chased after him, running him through with the sword and ending the battle, or rather, massacre!

    The spell his master passed down to him was indeed terrifying.

    It shocked even him. Enjoy new adventures from My Virtual Library Empire

    No wonder Miss Ning Xiang, who couldn''t surpass the Refining Internal Realm, said she could easily kill someone in the Meridian Passage stage ¡ª it must have been by such means!

    Cultivating immortality and practicing Martial Arts.

    They simply couldn''tpete!

    And this was the lowest level of spell, which anyone with Spirit Energy and a Spirit Root could cultivate, even if they hadn''t formally embarked on the path of immortality yet.

    It''s just not known if the Protective Gang Qi after entering the Profound Image Realm could withstand this attack.

    "First, clean up the scene."

    Chen Sansi pulled the arrows out of each corpse, then picked up the Vajra Pestle from the ground, covering the arrow wounds in their hearts.

    The trauma caused by the Vajra Pestle was extensive; once struck, one could not tell what the original wound had been like.

    He originally needed to dispose of the bodies one by one, but the Vajra Pestle made it much easier.

    Only the storyteller coachman, who had too many arrow wounds, still had to be disposed of.

    Wei Gong''s wound in the middle of his forehead was also hacked to a mess.

    After all was done, Chen Sansi picked up the long spear and quickly returned to the depths of the Luotian Mountain Range.

    Soon enough, some passersby would discover the bodies, then leave them to the local Liangzhou military to handle.

    Chen Sansi wasn''t worried about it being connected back to him.

    After all, many people did not know he had broken through to Refining Internal, and even if they did, killing someone at the Meridian Passage stage was like a fairy tale, nobody would guess it was him.@@novelbin@@

    As for the spell...

    Even fewer people would connect it to that.

    Because it seemed that even his master didn''t know this art, it had always been hidden and never revealed by Brother Fang.

    "Squeezed dry!"

    Chen Sansi felt the pristine cleanliness of his meridians within his body, as if he had spent all his long-umted money in one go, leaving an emptiness, with the remaining spirit sand being just enough for one more such expenditure.

    Without the supply of Spiritual Energy from the world, truly, a "hero" finds no ce to exercise his power.

    The incense might somewhat substitute for Spiritual Energy, but it''s not obtainable; to get the incense from those worshipping in the temples, he''d need that incense burner.

    Returning to the cave...

    Chen Sansi began to seclude himself for cultivation.

    If what Mr. Hou said was true, they might be called to arms soon, so raising his cultivation by even a little was crucial, and he also needed to take enough Spiritual Rice Medicine Ointment and treasure medicine, in case there were none to use along the way ¨C the distance between Liangzhou and Ming State was significant.

    Military Art Heavenly Book...

    It sounded far-fetched.

    But Chen Sansi himself had just used a spell, making it seem not so unbelievable.

    Unnoticed, another day passed.

    When dawn broke, he did not continue practicing, but instead, he chopped plenty of firewood to produce more Spiritual Rice Medicine Ointment.

    Beneath the fiery red mes, the Mystic Iron Furnace deformed.

    Soon, a ckish unfamiliar substance appeared at the bottom of the pot.

    Carefully, Chen Sansi collected it, also testing if he could roll it into spheres for easy consumption, but the consistency wasn''t thick enough, so he reluctantly gave up and faithfully poured it into porcin bottles.

    After hastily packing up, he grabbed his bow and arrows and left the cave, stepping into the boundless woods.

    Tonight, he was supposed to return home, but he needed to carry back two game animals.

    An Exotic Beast would be ideal.

    The Iron Core Bow that Ji had given him was still missing a string; he wanted to see if he could find a suitable Exotic Beast as material and also had been looking into imbuing arrows with power.

    Although Chen Sansi''s senses were still exceptional, with his Qi Observation Skill, finding prey no longer required the trouble it used to, as nearly no living creature within range could escape his eyes.

    He had taken only a few steps when he encountered a Poisonous Beast emitting a ck aura.

    Evil Qi!

    Miss Ning Xiang had mentioned that this dark ck energy was termed Evil Qi.

    These birds and beasts had be Poisonous Beasts under the influence of Evil Qi.

    The Divine Sect, Evil Qi...

    It was hard not to connect them together.

    At the deepest part of the Luotian Mountain Range, there definitely had to be an Immortal Trace!

    "With my current strength, how far can I go?"

    An idea suddenly sparked in Chen Sansi''s mind; hunting Poisonous Beasts was itself a form of cultivation that could improve his spear technique proficiency, perfectly manageable as a trial as long as he ensured his own safety.

    Not to mention that he had the Qi Observation Skill; if he encountered any dangerous Poisonous Beasts, he could retreat immediately.

    The people from the Seeking Immortal Tower said that High Realm Martial Artists had the chance to reach the deepest part.

    Why wouldn''t he want to see for himself what was inside?

    Since he was going hunting anyway, he might as well continue forward, thinking thus, Chen Sansi ignored the prey in front of him and kept moving deeper.

    If one were to segment the Luotian Mountain Range intoyers, visually it would be about fourteenyers; his current location was approximately the fourthyer, while the initial outbreak of the Evil Qi urred in the verystyer.

    Mobilizing his Qi-Blood, his figure flitted ghost-like through the woods.

    The deeper he went, the more Poisonous Beasts he encountered.

    Wolves, tigers, leopards, rare animals, grotesque and varied.

 Chapter 141 Turmoil of War, The Heavens are Heartless

    "I just don''t know if we can kill them outright."

    Chen Sansi doubted it was likely.

    With only physical evidence and no witness testimony, it wasn''t enough to convict.

    Especially at such a critical moment.

    Many sects had a very negative opinion of the Liangzhou Army.

    On top of that, with the Yu Yang Sect incident still unresolved and without an exnation, many sects began to say that the government did it on purpose, aiming to bleed them dry. Some even imed that there was no Witch God Sect at all, and that everything was a self-staged act by the government soldiers.@@novelbin@@

    Ci Yun Temple might be a third-tier sect, but it was respected, and it was likely that even Moon Splitting Mountain Vi and Tongxuan Sword Sect would speak up for them.

    But locking them up was enough.

    Chen Sansi was mainly concerned about the safety of his family.

    "Did you find anything?"

    "Other than that Vajra Pestle, nothing."

    "Then seal off the mountain! Keep searching, dig up houses, look for tunnels and secret chambers!"

    "Leave two thousand men behind, and the rest can go back."

    "..."

    The Princely Heir really has quite the influence.

    Chen Sansi sighed to himself.

    With just a word, and without any evidence, he brought so many men to search the mountain.

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    He didn''t continue bustling about and led his men to leave gradually.

    Thest day.

    He wasn''t idle either and mostly spent it cultivating.

    It wasn''t until the evening before departure that he gathered everyone for a meal.

    Sun Buqi and her brothers, Sister Rong Yanqiu, Mr. Hou, and even the first and third brothers voluntarily came over.

    No matter what was happening below the surface, the facade had to be maintained, after all, they shared the same master.

    "Here''s to wishing my little brother a triumphant victory!"

    "Cheers!"

    The gatheringsted until midnight, and then everyone dispersed.

    In the night.

    Chen Sansi pored over books by candlelight.

    This book was called "Hundred Herbs Map", specializing in recording extraordinary mutant grasses.

    He had looked through almost every material book rted to weapon making and hadn''t found any materials that could store Power. Recently while studying Medical Books, he stumbled upon a herb that could enhance Power for a short time, so he started looking through Medical Books as well.

    Thest page.

    Ghost Vein Wood: A mutant tree that takes a thousand years to form. When crushed and boiled with water, the decoction can revive a dying person, and the trunk can retain Power, but it''s prone to breaking and thus unsuitable as a material for Mystical Weapons.

    Chen Sansi sat up straight with interest.

    It could temporarily retain Power!

    If it was indeed brittle, it indeed couldn''t be used as material for weapons such as sword hilts, spear shafts, ornce shafts, because they would break after a few uses, but...

    Using it as an Arrowhead shaft would be just perfect.

    In that case.

    He stillcked a material for the Arrowhead!

    With that, he could assemble a Hundred-stone Bow capable of shooting out Power!

    "Iron material..."

    Chen Sansi felt a headacheing on.

    That was truly hard to find. If push came to shove, he''d have to use mystical iron instead, which with an Arrowhead shaft made of Ghost Vein Wood would be much stronger than ordinary wood.

    Putting down the book, he went to the next room to grab spirit sand and replenish his Spiritual Power.

    [Magic: Sword Qi Skill (entry-level)]

    [Progress: 15/500]

    This amount of Spiritual Energy was fine for storing force, but probably not for increasing proficiency.

    Chen Sansi nned to umte another use of Sword Qi Skill as a lifesaving trump card. The rest would have to wait until his return from the battle, after he acquired the incense burner.

    He continued practicing until deep into the night before he crept back to his room to sleep.

    The next day.

    The sky was barely lit.

    Gu Xin helped the General put on a newly made crimson battle robe and then helped him don his Armour. "From now on, Brother Shi, I will prepare your battle robe in advance every time you go to war."

    "Alright, I''ll wear new clothes each time."

    Chen Sansi adjusted his appearance in front of a bronze mirror, finally donning his helmet. "I''m off, and when I get back, our child will probably be born."

    "Mhm."

    After the tumultuous events in Yunzhou, Gu Xin was still worried but had also grown somewhat ustomed to it, and furthermore, she had heard that this time it was the grand deployment of an army, which was different from the previous escape.

    She stood by the door, watching as the man left.

    "Best wishes to the master!"

    Si Qinmohua also bowed in salute at the front door.

    "You two."

    Chen Sansi pulled out two pieces of gold from his waist and threw them over. "Go and buy yourselves some jewelry you like. Take good care of my wife while I''m gone."

    "Master, we don''t need this..."

    Ever since Sagin Mohua arrived at Chen Mansion, they had been eating meat with every meal. With plenty of vacant rooms, they even had their own private rooms, akin to marrying into a good family. How could they dare ask for more?

    "If I give it to you, you take it. If Ie back and find my wife has been treated unfairly, I''ll sell you to the brothel."

    Chen Sansi treated them as housemaids, but with some differences because the lives of these two girls were in his hands. Moreover, they were well-behaved and never arrogant or presumptuous, so giving them some rewards was fine.

    "Rest assured, master."

    As servants, Si Qinmohua didn''t even have the right to refuse and could only silently ept the gold.

    "Hao Qianxun."

    Chen Sansi gently stroked the horse''s mane. "It''s always you apanying me."

    The warhorse was indeed the most intimate and trustworthyrade.

    He had intended to ride fast to the military camp, but as he turned a corner, he saw a familiar figure again.

    "Bastard!"

    Zhaozhao deliberately made her voice loud. "When you leftst time, mydy cried every day, and you didn''t visit again! nning to go to war without even a goodbye?!"

    Chen Sansi reined in his horse, approached slowly, and then asked in a low voice from his elevated position, "Does Ning Xiang want to see me? Is there something important?"

    "Keep your voice down!"

    Zhaozhao came closer, cupping her hands to her mouth. "Important intelligence."

    "From Ming State?"

    Chen Sansi immediately rode towards Smoke Willow Lane.

    Not far off, he heard Zhaozhao chasing behind him from a distance, shouting, "Wait for me, you won''t be able to see mydy without me!"

 Chapter 142 A Deadly Situation, Splitting Forces into Two Paths

    "Whizz whizz whizz¡ª"

    At themand, arrows fell like rain.

    The people of Bai Gou County werepletely unprepared, and after several rounds of arrow rain, almost all were dead, except for the bone training martial artists.

    "My lord! It''s an injustice, my lord!"

    Hu Wen hurriedly exined, "The walls of Bai Gou County are weak, and we are few in number, we simply cannot hold."

    "Bullshit!"

    Wang Zhi red furiously, "There are over ten thousand civilians in the city, you can''t hold them?!"

    "Commoners, will themoners help us defend?"

    "I''m toozy to reason with you, you don''t deserve to listen!"

    "Kill¡ª"

    After the rain of arrows, the charge of the army formation followed.

    Bai Gou County had only one Refining Organ Martial Artist, who was jointly beheaded by Feng Yong and Zhao Kang, and none of the others survived.

    The Liangzhou soldiers, on the other hand, suffered zero deaths and only a few minor injuries.

    The Reserve Camp, although subpar, was only whenpared to the Eight Camps.

    Compared to the garrison soldiers of other States, they were fully armed elites, and a small county''s Martial Arts Academy Disciples and a handful of City Patrol Army were simply no match.

    Continue your journey on My Virtual Library Empire

    "These people, keeping them around only means they would betray our country sooner orter!"

    As Zhao Kang spoke, he chopped the corpses a few more times.

    "Shanshi, all set!"

    Wang Zhi caught up and eximed, "A bunch of cowards!"

    "Good, Teacher Brother has passed down the order, the entire army will pursue!"

    Chen Sansi indeed wanted to see whether the Miracle Soldiers Heavenly Book truly had such great effectiveness.

    "Teacher Brother..."

    Wang Zhiughed mockingly at himself.

    Zhao Kang and Feng Yong had refined their organs while he was still at the Bone Forging Perfection stage, not worthy of the title ''Teacher Brother''."

    "Let''s go!"

    After a brief rest, fifteen hundred cavalry quickly gathered at the South City Gate and charged full speed to the next battlefield.

    Chen Sansi was about to ride off when he heard faint footsteps from behind.

    He turned around.

    It was the little girl from earlier.

    She was no longer crying, but cautiously approached, her blood-stained hands tightly clenching Qian Xun''s tail, herrge watery eyes rimmed red, looking up at the general on the horse.

    "Have you thought it through?"

    Chen Sansi threw some dry food from his bag, "Girl, find a ce to hide. Wait for me toe back after the battle to pick you up, if by then you are still alive, it means we are fated to meet."

    The little girl held the dry food, pursing her lips without a word, but obediently let go of the White Swan Horse''s tail.

    "Hope we are fated, then."

    "Let''s go!"

    Chen Sansi disappeared quickly.

    It was not a problem to foster another child in the manor. There was no need for him to take care, and with Si Qinmohua taking care of her, it would also be goodpany for the child not yet born. But now it really was inconvenient.

    This battle, it''s still uncertain what could happen, bringing a child, indeed, would be a burden not to mention that swords and sabers do not have eyes and could potentially harm her.

    Whether she could survive in this purgatory on earth was entirely up to her own fate.

    The White Swan Horse moved swiftly, as if its hooves did not touch the ground, soaring through the air.

    [Skill: Horse Control (small achievement)]

    [Progress: (0/2000)]@@novelbin@@

    [Utility: covers three thousand miles a day, the horse leads the way]

    The horse leads the way: As long as themander''s horses are undermand, all follow the White Swan Horse''s order, unharried and unafraid, cooperating until death.

    This entry, originally meant to describe subordinates following themander''s orders, can now also apply to a "horse."

    "?"

    Chen Sansi looked down at the mane, "Do you also want to be a general?"

    Qian Xun even stopped and nodded.

    "You must be a demon!"

    Chen Sansi thought to himself, no wonder it''s always craving Spiritual Rice Medicine Ointment, this beast definitely has its own thoughts, and as time goes by, it continues to "evolve."

    He asked, "Can youmand our cavalry?"

    Qian Xun nodded again.

    "Alright, alright."

    Chen Sansi knew thebat capability of his soldiers would be further enhanced.

    Previously, the military formations needed the cavalry to control the horses for cooperation.

    But now, under Qian Xun''smand, the horses could cooperate actively, making the effects disyed radically different.

    And being unafraid.

    It meant even if something unexpected happened, the horses would not scatter.

    Even during rest at night, there was no need to specifically tether or watch the horses; everything could be handled by Qian Xun, truly a general among horses, and a female general at that.

    The cavalry pursued southward.

    Along the way, they encountered a few fleeing refugees.

    An hour and a halfter.

    They finally caught up with the rebels, the Red Eyebrow Army!

    These men were d in armor, wielding standard-issue weapons, their heads wrapped in red scarves, eyebrows painted red, hence the name Red Eyebrow Army. They marched ahead, pushing along several carts containing looted silver and treasures, and even some beautiful young women who appeared untouched, tied up with ropes, unknown who they were destined for.

    "Car Suspension Formation!"

    "Horse archers!"

    "Release arrows!"

    "Charge!"

    "..."

    As the Red Eyebrow Army marched on, they suddenly heard the deafening sound of horse hooves behind them, followed by a rain of arrows like a downpour.

    "Ambush!"

    "Form up!"

    Over seven hundred members of the Red Eyebrow Army, after losing about a hundred men, quickly reacted, each grabbing their Iron te Round Shields, setting up a formation to engage the cavalry at close range. Their formation was indeed well-practiced; despite this sudden situation, there was no confusion, and they were fully capable of deploying it.

    "Damn the court''s soldiers!"

    "Kill the court''sckeys!"

    "Brothers, kill, kill¡ª"

    "..."

    "Annihte the rebels!"

    Bai Thingzhi led the charge, at the forefront.

    The two groups of troops shed fiercely.

    "Energy!"

    Chen Sansi didn''t rush into the fray but reined in his horse at the side to observe.

    Rushing in directly would prevent him from clearly seeing the situation.

 Chapter 143 Crossing the Hongze River Twice

    ```

    "General Chen, you''ve really doomed me!"

    Outside the Central Army Tent.

    Yu Song was so angry he wanted to curse, nearly spitting out the words, "If you want to die, go alone, don''t drag me into this."

    "Vice Admiral Yu."

    Chen Shanshi said gravely, "Following my n doesn''t guarantee survival, but following them is certain death!"

    Out of 18,000 men, fewer than 180 would survive in the end.

    "Ah! What else is there to say at this point?"

    Yu Song said with a face of resignation, "General Chen, if you get me killed, I...I won''t say it. My eight wives and twelve children will definitelye after you! Let''s go!"

    Themand was passed down.

    Lu Shuhua, Xie Sishu, and others were also shocked.

    "What are you doing?"

    "General Chen, have you gone mad!"

    "If we don''t move with the main force and act alone, are we just asking for a quicker death!"

    "..."

    "Ridiculous!"

    Holding his sword, Lu Shuhua frowned and said unhappily, "We are all Thousand Captains, why should we leave the main force just because of his words? If you want to go, then go. I''m going to find General Sha!"

    "Brother Lu, wait for me, I''ll go too."

    Xie Sishu hurried to catch up.

    "Are you two out of your minds!"

    Bai Thingzhi mocked, "It''s so hard to persuade the damned to live!"

    However, Lu Shuhua and Xie Sishu were quickly called back.

    The orders from Sha Wenlong were already given and would not be changed lightly.

    "You captains and assistant generals, what are you so afraid of? A bunch of cowards!"

    Zhu Tong cursed, "Back then, Shanshi led us in Po Yang County with a remnant force to defeat 20,000 barbarians, and then, while being pursued by tens of thousands of troops, he led 40,000 civilians all the way from Yunzhou to You State and still survived! A bunch of fools!"

    "How dare you!"

    Xie Sishu red in anger, "You, a captain of hundred, dare to speak so rudely to me? Courting death!"

    "I think this brother is absolutely right!"

    Bai Thingzhi hefted his broadsword, "What, you want to challenge me?"

    "ng¡ª"

    The sound of drawing swords erupted, and both sides confronted each other, swords at the ready.

    "Enough!"

    Chen Shanshi said solemnly, "At a time of life and death, are you still fighting amongst yourselves? Zhu Tong, back down! Brother Lu, Brother Xie, please believe in me. If, after crossing the river, we really suffer huge losses, both of you cane and chop off my head, and I definitely won''t resist!"

    "Fine!"

    Only then did Lu Shuhua relent, "These are General Chen''s own words; let everyone bear witness!"

    He and Xie Sishu had only given up theirpetition for the position of True Inheritor, but none of their innate pride as geniuses had diminished in the slightest.

    Especially Lu Shuhua, who also had a Martial Saint as a master, naturally the future Sword Saint. How could he be willing to be led by the nose by others?

    "Xu Wencai!"

    Your next chapter is on My Virtual Library Empire

    Chen Shanshi called out loudly, "Bring me the map!"

    ...

    "The Young Master has great strategy," Sha Wenlong admired, "Once they separate at Yangchun Prefecture, as long as they dare to cross the river and head south, they are definitely on a path to death. We can at least hold out for twenty days with the support of Yangchun Prefecture."

    "It''s not my strategy that''s good, it''s that he is rushing towards his own death," Cao Fan said while sitting atop his horse, casually holding the Azure Dragon Crescent de. "If I can facilitate that, why wouldn''t I?"

    "Well said, this fellow has long deserved to die."

    Sha Wenlong knew very well that he was transferred because his cover had been blown. He was thest person who would want to see the other side grow stronger, otherwise, he would likely face a disaster.

    "Dong An is a thankless wretch!" Cao Fan spat out contemptuously, "Back then, he lost to Fang Qingyun in the Selected Point, and if it weren''t for Grandpa''s imperial appointment as a Martial Arts Top Schr and the ample resources for cultivation, how could he have be a Deputy General in charge of a state''s military and administration today?!"

    "The temptation of treasured tactics is too great," Sha Wenlong guessed the reason, "Young Master, if you were tempted with methods above the Martial Saint in exchange for something, you would definitely swap, right? Even more so for him, the state isn''t his; it''s just a matter of switching masters for him!"

    "He really deserves to die! My Great Sheng Dynasty treats people with generosity, and yet these ungrateful wretches arose. Sun Xiangzong is fine, at least he has established many merits over the years! Dong An truly deserves to be hacked into pieces!"

    Cao Fan pondered the current situation of Ming State, "General Sha, do you remember what Chen Shanshi just said? He said there will be no supplies inside Yangchun Prefecture. If that''s the case, what should we do?"

    "We''ll collect supplies along the way!" Sha Wenlong cautiously responded, "Before we reach Yangchun Prefecture, we''ll pass through quite a few counties; we''ll take their reserves..."

    After all, food and fodder are the biggest issues when defending a city.

    As long as there are ample supplies and high walls, the defense can hold indefinitely.

    "This year is also not a good one for Ming State," Cao Fan said, "Many ces have been hit by disasters, and I''ve heard that even taxes can''t be collected in full. Relying solely on the government''s reserves probably won''t be enough."

    "Then we will have to impose additional levies from the people," Sha Wenlong suggested, "It''s just making themon folk suffer a bit. Young Master, don''t worry, I''ll take the me."

    "Your nobility, General Sha!"

    "..."

    ...

    Yingzui Mountain.

    The main encampment of the Red Eyebrow Army.

    The Central Army Tent.

    In front of the sand table.

    Mr. Jia had been brought to Mei Mountain by his father to join the bandits and, luckily, found a good master. He learned formidable martial arts and subsequently expanded the bandit stronghold, eventually swallowing the entirety of Mei Mountain''s regional strongholds and bing the undisputed leader,manding over two thousand troops.@@novelbin@@

    He knew that once a bandit force grew to a certain size, it must grow stronger or face obliteration.

    But Mr. Jia couldn''t continue to expand with his power alone until one day, a schr came to the stronghold, iming he could help them grow and be stronger, suggesting that bing the Mingzhou King was not beyond reach.

    ```

 Chapter 144 Capital City Trembles

    ```

    Liangzhou.

    "Mr. Hou, Governor Pei, I am leading troops to Ming State, and the entirety of the Liangzhou Army relies on both of you, The Great Wall must be closely monitored, and once the barbarian bandits show signs of activity, you can implement scorched earth tactics and retreat to Liangzhou City to hold steadfast without venturing out."

    Sitting atop his Fiery Fire Horse like a mountain, Lv Ji instructed the retainers including Mr. Hou who were staying behind.

    "Rest assured, General Lv."

    Pei Tiannan promised, "The Northern Territory in my charge will absolutely not encounter any problems."

    "Big Brother!"

    "Bu Qi?"

    Lv Ji looked at the young master who was riding fast towards him, "What are you doing?"

    "I am going too."

    Sun Buqi, disying the long spear in his hand, said, "I''ve achieved Bone Forging Perfection, I can be of help."

    "That won''t do."

    Lv Ji refused, "You and your junior sister should just stay put in Liangzhou. We don''t need you."

    "Wait!"

    Sun Buqi pressed on, "Big Brother, tell me straight, what''s the situation in Ming State like now? Why are you starting to deploy arge army there again, has something happened?"

    "Dong An."

    Lv Ji did not turn back, holding his Heavenly Halberd as he spurred his horse away, "He''s betrayed the country."

    Dong An had betrayed the country!

    This kind of high-level intelligence was something the others simply had no clue about.

    Sun Buqi was struck as if by thunder, "Sister, my brother-inw..."

    Sun Li was not far away, only she didn''te up to talk to Lv Ji.

    "The map!"

    Sun Buqi quickly acquired a map, "If Dong An has betrayed, then the whole of Ming State is¡ªSister, what do we do?"

    "The second senior brother and the others have sent letters saying they''ve already sent people there."

    Sun Li''s lips were bitten nearly to bleeding, "Don''t tell Sister Lan, understand?"

    "You still worry about that when Chen Sansi is finished, done for!"

    Sun Buqi said, "Not just him, the entire Ming State is done for! You stay here, I''m going back to see if I can get in touch with Father!"

    "..."

    Sun Li silently rode back to Chen Mansion.

    "Sister." Your next chapter is on My Virtual Library Empire

    Gu Xin, with her pregnant belly, weed her at the door, "How did it go?"

    "Quite well."

    Sun Li dismounted, squeezing out a smile without much joy, "We won, our little nephew will certainly be able to return before his birth."

    "Good, that''s good."

    Gu Xin took her hand, "Sister, I''ll teach you how to make clothes for the baby."

    "Oh, okay."

    ...

    Yan State.

    "Old Two!"

    Rong Yanqiu caught up to the second senior brother Cheng Wei ahead, "Have the letters arrived?"

    "They have."

    ```

    Cheng Wei released his Hai Dongqing, "Our younger martial brother is still alive, but the situation is bleak, with over a hundred thousand troops besieging them, I''m afraid they can''t hold out for much longer."

    Rong Yanqiu''s gaze was cold and sinister, "That Dong An is really something, Old Four has be the demon in his heart. To win against Old Four, he would stoop to such measures. He better hope I don''t catch him."

    "Oh no~"

    Cheng Wei was distracted, fiddling with an abacus in his hands, "It''s all over, all over!"

    "What do you mean, all over!"

    Rong Yanqiu spoke icily, "Within twenty days, we must break into Ming State!"

    "Twenty days won''t do, we need at least forty days."

    Cheng Wei clicked the beads of the abacus, "Right now the West Qi Kingdom has stationed arge force on the essential route heading south, and with the continuous supply of food and forage from within Ming State, it''s impossible to take it down in a short time.

    "In this battle, the West Qi Kingdom has all the advantages, not only fighting on our turf, with our civilians dying, but the provisions consumed are also from Ming State''s stores. It''s simply a business where they only win and don''t lose."

    "Forty days is too long!"

    Rong Yanqiu red at him, "Old Two, aren''t you usually the most cunning? Find a way to break through within thirty days, no matter what!"

    "I''m not an immortal, even if you ask Old Four, it would be the same!"

    Cheng Wei put away the abacus, "Unless the central part is empty, someone could go to Golden Spring Manor, burn their granaries, and it would take the West Qi Kingdom two months to transport grain from their own territory.

    "Once the supplies are cut off, they will naturally have to start retreating, and only then can we seize the opportunity."

    "But do you think it''s possible? Zhao Wuji is barely able to protect himself, Sha Wenlong and his party are trapped in Yangchun Prefecture, and our younger martial brother is crossing the Hongze River trying to head south, who could go?"

    ...

    "Enemy troops!"

    "Enemy troops!"

    Outside Golden Spring Manor.

    The rebel army in charge of escorting the food and forage panicked as they saw the rapidly approaching cloud of dust, struggling to understand where the attackers wereing from, and moreover, they were cavalry!

    "Kill¡ª¡ª"

    "..."

    Before they could make a judgment, the cavalry had already charged in, nearly unstoppable, and the two thousand rebels copsed in an instant, dropping their supplies and turning to run, while the civilian workers scattered in all directions.

    "Burn it all! Burn everything!"

    Chen Sansi ordered, "Then head to Golden Spring Manor!"

    "Good, quick, do as General Chen says!"

    Yu Song was momentarily bewildered at such an easily gained victory.

    So were Xie Sishu and Lu Shuhua.

    They couldn''t understand.

    How could Chen Sansi so urately predict the enemy''s movements and position, and then find a gap among countless dead ends to wriggle through.

    "There are people ahead!"

    Lu Shuhua pointed towards the figures in the forest ahead, "Brothers, go for them!"@@novelbin@@

    "Don''t attack, it''s me, it''s me!"

    "..."

    These people, clearly dressed in Red Eyebrow Army uniforms, were moving towards them, though there weren''t many, only about twenty or so, and each one of them was grimy and gaunt, looking as if they would fall over with a gust of wind.

    "Brother Chen, it''s me!"

    "Yan Changqing?"

    Chen Sansi quickly recognized the man, "What are you doing here?"

    "Brother Chen doesn''t know."

    Out of breath, Yan Changqing said, "During the decisive battle, we were scattered here, I led my brothers into the deep forests to live like savages for months... atst, atst we''ve waited for you! How''s the situation now? Why have youe back, have we turned defeat into victory and started a counterattack?"

 Chapter 145 Crossing Hongze Thrice, Hua Jin Small Achievement

    "Are you ying tricks?!"

    "We have already crossed the river twice, and crossing again makes it three times. Are you addicted?"

    "Madman, truly a madman. With fifty to sixty thousand soldiers chasing us, you still want to turn back and cross the river? Do you think you can make it?"

    "Besides, the journey back and forth will take another half month. I can''t walk any further. If you want to go, go without me!"

    Xie Sishu said and sat down by himself.

    Lu Shuhua hugged his sword, "Vice Admiral Yu, I still suggest we go find General Zhao, or stay and defend the city. You are our general and there is no need to listen to him in everything."

    "Ah..."

    Yu Song removed his helmet and grabbed his hair in thought, clearly very conflicted, "General Chen, are you sure? If we go back, won''t we encounter arge army?"

    He did not quite understand this route.

    Yet the previous two river crossings had proven one thing.

    Chen Sansi wasn''t making assumptions!

    He had his own logic and ideas.

    If everyone else could not understand, it only showed that they were not up to his level.

    Old Yu, his only notable trait was his willingness to take advice, and he knew when he was ipetent, it was time to step aside.

    "There''s a chance, but it''s notrge."

    Chen Sansi pointed out a route on the map, "After leaving the city, we head toward the central region, then cross through Longyang County, skirting Yingzui Mountain and crossing the Hongze River again. Right now, all the pursuers are drawn to Golden Spring, leaving the central region extremely vulnerable, the only thing we need to be cautious of is the enemy forces in Yangchun Prefecture City, try not to draw their attention!"

    "Yangchun Prefecture?"

    Hearing this, Lu Shuhua finally started to understand the intent, a spark of inspiration, "I have a n. If we really can get through Longyang County, wouldn''t we be able to coordinate a pincer attack with the Princely Heir inside Yangchun Prefecture."

    "No!"

    Chen Sansi retorted, "Our military force is not enough, and by the time we reach Longyang County, Yangchun Prefecture will have likely received some information and be somewhat prepared. If we go, it''s not only useless in lifting the siege on Yangchun Prefecture but equivalent to delivering ourselves to death.

    "So, our primary objective is still to cross the river!"

    "You all need to understand, during this period, almost all of therge armies are now behind us, it''s a time when Luotian Pass is vulnerable. We have a chance to slip through unexpectedly and escape to safety."

    "Alright!"

    With a resolute heart, Yu Song dered, "Damn it, I''m listening to you this time. My life is in your hands. My eight wives and twelve children are still waiting at home, I promised to personally train a few of my sons in martial arts after returning!"

    "Vice Admiral Yu?"

    Lu Shuhua and Xie Sishu were puzzled.

    They did not understand why, as the battle progressed, a Thousand Captain became a de factomander, and a formidable Vice Admiral was willing to obediently follow orders, even absolute obedience wasn''t an exaggeration.

    "But let me be clear first."

    Yu Song squeezed a smile out of his pale face, "If we encounter Meridian Passage again, and I can''t fight anymore, General Chen, you''ll have to deal with it yourself."

    "Let''s hope that doesn''t happen."

    Chen Sansi internally calcted the time needed for the journey, "If we set out immediately, we can cross the river before the rebel forces in Yangchun Prefecture react."

    "Good!"

    Yu Song abruptly stood up, almost falling due to his injuries, using his weapon as a crutch, "Transmit my general orders, we leave Golden Spring before dawn and continue on our way!"

    "Yes!"

    Lu Shuhua, Xie Sishu, and Yan Changqing, among others, naturally did not dare to disobey.

    "Vice Admiral Yu, are you alright?"

    Chen Sansi fumbled inside his coat and pulled out a porcin bottle containing the Healing Treasure Medicine given to him by his senior brother before they departed.

    "This medicine is extremely precious."

    Yu Song wasn''t shy, he took it and poured it into his mouth, feeling slightly better afterward. He looked towards the north, in the direction of Yangchun Prefecture, and suddenly spoke, "Previously, General Sha and others insisted on following you eastward to cross the river, were they trying to kill us? General Chen, did you know about this all along?"@@novelbin@@

    Chen Sansi didn''t speak, which amounted to a tacit acknowledgment.

    "Heh."

    Yu Song scoffed, a departure from his usualposed demeanor, spitting curses, "Damn their pettiness. They lost as Selected Point and couldn''t take it, instead of settling it fair and square in the arena after returning, they resort to such dishonorable means on the battlefield, scheming against theirrades! To make it look unbiased, they even dragged me and my three thousand brothers into their schemes!"

    "Among them, several have the Body of Martial Saint, they are the hope of the Eight Camps and even the Northern Territory!"

    "This Cao Fan is still a Princely Heir, in the line of session, he''s the future Emperor. Such a person, does he even deserve the vastnds of Dasheng?"

    "I''m from the ck Tortoise Camp, and I despise such people the most!"

    "ck Tortoise Camp?"

    Chen Sansi curiously asked, "Vice Admiral Yu, which year did you join the ck Tortoise Camp?"

    "Longqing fifty-eight."

    Yu Song recalled, saying, "The person I admire the most is General Tang, who led from the front, dying on the city wall without taking a single step back, unlike these people who bring cmity upon theirrades. If the Eight Camps fall into their hands, they''ll be doomed within ten years."

    Fifty-eight years...

    Chen Sansi pondered internally.

    The ck Tortoise Camp had beenpletely wiped out in Longqing fifty-seven.

    Which meant that Yu Song had never seen Wang Zhi and didn''t know that "General Tang" had always been with them, but due to his limited cultivation, he was only a Captain of a Hundred.

    "General Chen."

    Yu Song said, "You, young and highly skilled in cultivation, are clever; the Northern Territory truly depends on you in the future. Thus, no matter what, you all must survive and leave this forsaken ce. As your Main General, I have that responsibility."

 Chapter 146 Four Crossings of Hongze, Straight to the Heart

    Liangzhou.

    June 27th.

    "Bang!"

    "It''s broken, it''s all broken!"

    Sun Buqi rushed into the courtyard and said, "Thest time we received news was when Shanshi burned the granary, and then there was no movement at all!"

    "Keep it down!"

    Sun Li nced inside the room, "Sister Lan is going to give birth in two or three months, don''t let her hear."

    "Ah!"

    Sun Buqi held a roll of maps in his hands, which he spread out directly on the ground, "Sister, so much time has passed, and now, the situation is that Senior Brother and Senior Sister Nine have all gone to war, even the troops from the Capital have entered the Great Wilderness, and in at most one more month, there definitely should be reinforcements entering the heart of Ming State, but the problem is... Shanshi has already lost contact..."

    "Sister, don''t cry."

    "I am not saying Shanshi is definitely dead..."

    He ended up having tofort her in return, "Last time Shanshi lost contact, it was for two months too, and in the end, it was fine. This time it will definitely be fine as well..."

    It''s really exasperating.

    He had not seen his sister cry since their mother had died.

    "Creak¡ª¡ª"

    The door was pushed open.

    Gu Xin, dressed in a loose gown, walked out with the support of Si Qin, "What are you two talking about?"

    Sun Li hurriedly wiped her tears, "It''s nothing, Sister Lan."

    As she spoke, she fiercely twisted Sun Buqi''s arm, even using her Qi-Blood power.

    "Hiss!"

    Sun Buqi grimaced in pain and hurriedly put away the map.

    "Sister Lan, let''s go back inside."

    Sun Li couldn''t even manage a smile, "I think the clothes I made for my disciple this time are quite pretty."

    "Enough, I''ve heard it all."

    Gu Xin took out a handkerchief and gently wiped the corner of the other''s eye, "There''s trouble in Ming State, right? I noticed something was offst time, but it''s okay, that scoundrel loves to y this disappearing act; he''ll be back soon."

    As she spoke, she hugged Sun Li infort, patting her shoulder.

    "To hell with this defiance!"

    Sun Buqi couldn''t stand it any longer, grabbed the map, and took off running.

    ...

    Ming State.

    Jiankou County.

    "Daughter, daughter!"

    "Mr. Si, I beg you, let my daughter go!"

    "To hell with you!"

    Jia Lao Si impatiently drew a gleaming Yanling knife, "Old man, if you want to die just say so!"

    Behind him, a young maiden was forcibly tied up and thrown into a horse cart.

    "Mr. Si, have mercy, she''s my only daughter!"

    "Puchi¡ª¡ª"

    The sh of a knife.

    The old man was instantly cleaved in two.

    "Next one!"

    Mr. Jia sheathed his knife, "Brothers, hurry up, I''ll give you two more hours, loot what you want, kill whom you wish. After that, we''re moving to the next city."

    "Hahahaha!"

    "Right, right, right!"

    "..."

    The Red Eyebrow Army piged from house to house.

    "Mr. Si!"

    "Back when you attacked Jiankou County, it was we, themon people, who opened the gates for you!"

    "You even promised before to provide us with food, but everything has changed, everything has changed!!!"

    "..."

    Experience more tales on My Virtual Library Empire@@novelbin@@

    "When you needed us to open the gates, we were useful. Now we''re good for nothing, just wasting food by being alive!"

    Mr. Jia looked at the wailing popce on both sides, "Massacre the city! Damn it, I''ve been through two city ughters recently, and I was so tired. I nned to merely rob a bit here and leave, but since you don''t appreciate kindness, I suppose I''ll have to push myself more! Go wild, brothers!"

    Blood slowly seeped through the cracks of the citizens'' doors, gathering on the streets and forming a long crimson river.

    "Mr. Si!"

    A Red Eyebrow Army general emerged from an alley, "It''s about time we head to Luotian Pass. Dong An sent a messenger saying that the Reserve Camp''s survivors might flee to our location, urging us to be on our guard."

    "Nonsense! Do you think I don''t know military tactics?"

    Mr. Jia said carelessly, "They don''t have wings. Didn''t they just escape from here two months ago and even burned down Golden Spring Manor? How can they possibly get here so quickly?"

    "Mr. Si, I think it''s better to be cautious."

    The general advised, "Think about it, once you conquer the entire Ming State and even half the country, what does this momentary pleasure count for?"

    "Hmm, you make sense."

    Mr. Jia, grinning, said, "Then let''s hurry the brothers up to finish off here and then we can move on. Besides, what are you worried about? Isn''t Luotian Pass still guarded by three thousand men? Even if they doe, they won''t be able to break through anytime soon..."

    "Mr. Si, Mr. Si, they''re here!"

    A Red Eyebrow Army foot soldier ran over frantically, shouting, "We''ve spotted over three thousand of the enemy outside the city!"

    "They really came, how did they manage it?"

    The smile vanished from Mr. Jia''s face, and he said sternly, "How far away are they?"

    "Right outside the city gates!"

    "What?!"

    Mr. Jia kicked him, "What are you all good for?"

    "It''s dark, we couldn''t see, Mr. Si!"

    The Red Eyebrow Army foot soldier knelt on the ground pleading, "Only when the dawn broke did we see that it was densely packed with people, emerging like ghosts from the hills, terrifying indeed!"

    "Useless!"

    Mr. Jia, though unruffled,manded, "Quick! Gather everyone for the defense!"

    There were still a few hundred soldiers on the city walls.

    Even though the enemy was already outside the walls, they could still hold them off for a while, giving them enough time to rally.

    The Reserve Camp''s remnants amounted to no more than three thousand people, and their rapid arrival implied they certainlycked armaments and siege equipment. Even if the Red Eyebrow Army had only two thousand men, they would still be enough to wear them down.

    After all, there should be tens of thousands of pursuers right behind them.

    "Hum¡ª"

    The horns sounded.

    The Red Eyebrow Army, still in a frenzied animalistic state, instantly snapped to attention and rushed out of the houses, some pulling up their trousers, others stuffing silver into their clothes.

 Chapter 147 One General Achieves Success

    ```

    Four Crossings of Hongze, straight to Meishan Prefecture!

    The rest, under Xu Wencai''s detailed exnation, also gradually came to realize.

    Their pupils trembled visibly to the naked eye.

    What does this mean?

    They''re not nning to run anymore.

    And directly...

    Win the battle?!

    Originally.

    If these three thousand men were to burn the forage, no matter what, as long as they did not defect, they would be at the forefront of the merit books at the end of this battle, and if they were to destroy the main camp of the Red Eyebrow Army and seize the legendary Miracle Soldiers Heavenly Book.

    Then wouldn''t that be...

    Heavenly Merit!

    Genuine Heavenly Merit!

    Three thousand men, influencing the direction of a huge battle involving three hundred thousand on both sides!

    Every one of them, Heavenly Merit!

    This isn''t a pipe dream!

    Upon understanding, the others also felt that this n was feasible.

    "Then what are we waiting for?!"

    Lu Shuhua stood up, "General Chen, when do we set out?"

    "We''ll set out tomorrow at 5 a.m."

    Chen Sansi pointed at the map and allocated, "This time, Vice Admiral Yu and I will lead one thousand men to cover the rear. Then, Xu Wencai, you take Brother Lu and the others to cross the Hongze River from the west, hide at the crossing of Hongze and Wushui, and once there is a signal of burning the mountains from our direction, immediately cross the Wushui River and head straight for Meishan Prefecture City. You must seize Liang Jinian as fast as possible and take the Heavenly Book. Brother Lu, Brother Xie, and Mr. Yan, if you trust me, follow Xu Wencai''smand!"

    "Alright!"

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    Lu Shuhua nodded forcefully, "General Chen, rest assured. We''ll listen to you and entrust themand to Mr. Xu, but..."

    "There''s something I don''t understand."

    Xie Sishu took over the conversation and uttered the second half, "Why do you and Vice Admiral Yu need to personally remain behind for this feint attack? You two are currently the highest in our Martial Arts Realm. Isn''t it a bit..."

    "It''s alright."

    Chen Sansi said solemnly, "The Red Eyebrow Army is originallyposed of bandits. No matter how many people they have gathered in recent years, the number of High Realm Martial Artists has always been just a few. By the time they cross the river, the highest rank among the generals left in Meishan Prefecture will not exceed the Hua Jin stage. It''s been almost half a year, Brother Lu, yesterday I saw you practicing martial arts, you''re about to reach Hua Jin too, right?"

    "Exactly."

    Lu Shuhua didn''t deny it, "Just a hair away, I should be able to break through tonight!"

    "Then there''s no problem."

    Chen Sansi continued, "If we encounter any Hua Jin generals, I''ll leave them to you."

    "General! Why don''t you let me cover the rear!"

    Bai Thingzhi asked with confusion, "You and Vice Admiral Yu, one is in charge ofmand while the other is the Main General, what are you two doing staying behind?"

    "I have my arrangements."

    Chen Sansi stated, "Get everything arranged quickly, there''s no time for exnations anymore."

    After he finished speaking, he left carrying his long spear and soon disappeared without a trace.

    "This..."

    Lu Shuhua and the others looked at each other in dismay.

    "Why does this feel so strange?"

    "Yeah."

    "The two of them staying behind for the feint, why?"

    "It''s not necessary!"

    "..."

    Yu Song didn''t speak, almost lying on the map, his movements somewhat clumsy as he carefully studied it.

    "Mr. Xu, do you know the reason for this arrangement?"

    "..."

    "Because this is not a feint at all!"

    Xu Wencai suddenly realized something and was overwhelmed with tears, muttering to himself, "Such benevolence! Having such an enlightened ruler, I, Xu Wencai, have no regrets in this life! But we absolutely cannot do this, we cannot take such a big risk!"

    "What are you talking about?"

    Lu Shuhua and the others were even more confused.

    "I can''t stop Mr. Wang; I must find someone who can!"

    Xu Wencai looked around hastily and then rushed toward the area where the main force was resting.

    "God damn it!"

    Wang Zhi pped Feng Yong on the head, "Last time it was clearly me who killed more, hand over the ten taels of silver quickly, don''t think of stiffing me."

    "Bullshit!"

    Feng Yong retorted, not convinced, "The ones I killed were all Bone Training level, one of them is worth ten of yours!"

    "..."

    After the battle with Jia Youtian, the soldiers took advantage of the rest to settle their gambling debts with each other, making some bitter fun for themselves. After all, they just needed to follow orders.

    During this half-year, no matter how flustered the rest of the soldiers were, they were rtively calm.

    "Mr. Wang!"

    Xu Wencai interrupted them, "May I speak with you in private?"

    "Is it something you can''t say here?"

    Wang Zhi looked at him and after a moment''s hesitation, still agreed, "Okay!"

    The two of them went to a secluded corner.

    Wang Zhi clenched a grass root in his mouth and began, "Go ahead Mr. Xu, what''s going on?"

    "Mr. Wang!"

    Xu Wencai asked, "You must be the former Main General of Xuanwu Camp, Tang Ruoshan, correct?"

    Wang Zhi was startled.

    "Oh."

    Xu Wencai exined, "I overheard Mr. Wang calling you ''Elder Brother'' inadvertentlyst time, hence my conjecture. This matter is of great importance, so I implore Mr. Wang not to withhold any information."

    Wang Zhi replied seriously, "Speak."

    "Here''s the thing..."

    Xu Wencai recounted the whole situation in detail.

    "Does thisd want to repeat my missteps?"

    After hearing everything, Wang Zhi''s brow furrowed into a "Sichuan" character, murmuring, "I understand. I''ll stake my life to stop him!"

    ...@@novelbin@@

    Elsewhere.

    After spending a long time on the map, Yu Song finally understood. Cursing under his breath, he scooped up the map and set off in the direction Chen Sansi had left. Eventually, he found Chen Sansi sitting on arge rock by a stream, lost in thought.

    "General Chen, how did you end up hiding here?"

    Yu Song sat down beside him and stealthily reached into his chest to pull out a water bag, sniffing it after opening: "Guess what this is?"

    ```

 Chapter 147 Achievements of a General Part 2

    "Alcohol?"

    Chen Sansi didn''t need to peer inside; as soon as the stopper was removed, the potent scent of alcohol hit him.

    "That''s right!"

    Xu Wen boasted as he introduced, "This alcohol is called ''Drunk Saint'', they say even the Martial Saint would get drunk after a few sips. It''s very expensive, you know, just this water bag costs several hundred taels of silver!"

    "I brought it from Liangzhou when I set off, nning to share it with the brothers after winning a victory, but who knew this battle would drag on for half a year, and there hasn''t been a chance to have a taste until now."

    "Want some?"

    "Sure."

    Chen Sansi didn''t stand on ceremony and grabbed the water bag to take a gulp.

    The liquor was medicinal and steeped with an Exotic Beast, so after downing a swallow, his body felt fiery hot, and just one gulp made him slightly tipsy; this was indeed the first time he had drunk such a strong beverage, no wonder it was called ''Drunk Saint''."

    "Hahaha!"

    Xu Wenughed as he snatched back the water bag and took a big swig, grimacing as he endured the harshness of the strong liquor while spreading the military map out in front of them.

    He pointed at the map, "General Chen, I just took another good look at our entire marching route since arriving in Ming State, and you are brilliant. You don''t realize until you look, but you''ve been leading a group of us toying with an army of more than a hundred thousand men."

    "I bet they''re all furious, especially Dong An; that man is well-known. Losing a battle is worse for him than losing his life, let alone to us, who number just over three thousand."

    Chen Sansi said nothing.

    "Why are you silent, boy? You look down on me? I''ve been in the army for so long and became an Assistant General. I understand some tactics at least!"@@novelbin@@

    Xu Wen continued, gesturing with his hand, "This time, the reason you had us two stay behind to cover the rear is because feint attacks don''t work anymore, right?"

    Chen Sansi did not deny it.

    "One may be cheated once or twice, but not forever! Use the same tactic too often, and even a pig would see through it, not to mention living, breathing men!"

    "Neither Dong An nor Liang Jinian of Meishan are fools; if not, the Liang surname wouldn''t have received an ''Immortal''s gift''. Therefore..."

    Xu Wen emphasized, "We can''t feint anymore; only a real attack can attract more of their forces, causing Meishan Prefecture''s defenses to thin."

    "But how can we make the exceedingly clever Liang Jinian and Dong An believe that we''re serious, not feigning?"

    "What''s more convincing than the Main General appearing at Luotian Pass?"

    "That''s why you asked for the two of us to stay behind to cover the rear."

    "How about that, am I wrong in my analysis? I haven''t been fighting these years for nothing, have I?"

    Chen Sansi nodded, "Vice Admiral Yu is spot on."

    "Good, good! What does this mean? It means ''create an opportunity if none exists''!"

    Xu Wen eximed, "General Chen is indeed a mastermind, a rare talent inmand throughout the ages!"

    "I always felt you would be one of the premier figures in the Eight Camps, surpassing General Lu is not impossible. The hope of the Eight Camps lies with you."

    "But..."

    At this point,

    Xu Wen''s tone shifted suddenly, and he lunged forward to fiercely grab Chen Sansi''spels, hissing angrily, "I was wrong, you son of a bitch are a coward, a coward!"

    "Vice Admiral Yu..."

    Chen Sansi was somewhat bewildered by the other''s abrupt change.

    "Chen Sansi!"

    Xu Wen''s eyes reddened as he bellowed, "I ask you, what is the duty and responsibility of a qualified general, a person inmand of soldiers?"

    "You won''t say?"

    "Fine, let me tell you!"

    "A general needs to achieve strategic goals while minimizing losses!"

    "It''s that simple!"

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    "Just this one line is enough!"

    "And you, what are you doing?!"

    "Vice Admiral Yu..."

    Chen Sansi''s gaze wasplex, "I don''t understand what you mean."

    "Still pretending to be dumb with me!"

    Xu Wen shoved him to the ground, cursing without any courtesy, "Covering the rear, it''s enough with just me alone; why did you have to follow along? Because your strategy requires my death to seed, so you feel sorry, guilty, you think you''ve caused my death! Right? Answer me!"

    "Yes!"

    Chen Sansi admitted.

    Since joining the army, he had never intentionally exchanged his brothers'' lives for victory, especially not so many lives.

    Of course, he wasn''t truly on a suicide mission; he had the Abnormal Fire and Sword Qi Skill as trump cards, and there was still a chance of survival, albeit with great risk.

    "Such cowardice, such misced mercy!"

    Xu Wen''s eyes showed contempt, "Do you think General Fang or Supervisor Sun would decide differently? They would leave me to cover the rear without hesitation, then lead the troops to attack Meishan Prefecture!"

    "If my death can bring victory in this battle, then my life as an Assistant General is well spent; history has never seen such a bargain!"

    "I''m telling you, if our roles were reversed, I would have sent you to die, not waffle like a woman here!"

    "I ask you!"

    "If you stay with me and die here, can Lu Shuhua and the others truly aplish their mission? Are they really capable?"

    "Xu Wencai might be impressive, but at the end of the day, he''s no better than an Array Soldier; the battlefield is unforgiving, and should he fall, who else couldmand? Are the rest up to the task?"

    "If chaos ensues and Meishan Prefecture isn''t taken, wouldn''t everyone have died in vain?"

    "Your strategy shows you understand this better than I do; how can you be so irresponsible? Do you know how valuable your life is? Even if you must die, it should be on the way to attack Meishan Prefecture, not at Luotian Pass!"

 Chapter 147 One General Achieves Success Part 3

    Chen Sansi closed his eyes, "You''re right."

    He understood all this well enough; the other''s admonishments severed thest shackle in his heart.

    The battlefield was just like that.

    Without sacrifice, there could be no victory.

    "Knowing I''m right is good!"

    Yu Song looked at him, his voice trembling slightly with excitement, "So, put away your pathetic, cowardly sympathy and pity! Those who are benevolent don''t handle money, and those who are kind don''tmand troops!

    "On the battlefield, it has always been that for one general''s sess, thousands of bonesy dry¡ªa timeless truth!

    "But as long as they die a worthy death, the brothers will absolutely have no grievances!"

    "Don''t talk anymore!"

    He looked at the other, preparing to speak, but interrupted, "You kid are talented, but your biggest w is still your youth, hence your heart is too soft towards our own people! I hope that after this battle, you can transform, you can grow, and be a true general, and in the future, be a truemander!"

    "You don''t have the right to refuse.

    "I listened to you before because you were right, but this time, you''re wrong!"

    "And don''t forget, I''m the assistant general of the reserve camp, and you''re just a thousand captain. Military orders are like mountains; you have no right to defy them!"

    "I understand."

    Chen Sansi wasn''t being sentimental. When he reopened his eyes, his gaze had be resolute, "After dawn, please Vice Admiral Yu select one thousand cavalrymen to attack Luo Tian Pass. The more noise, the better, but for the first two days, try not to suffer too much loss. Drag it out as long as possible. Additionally, send someone to watch over Southern Wilderness Mountain. Once you see from the west bank of Hongze River, toward Meishan Prefecture, arge army approaching, immediately set fire to the mountain to send a signal. Then I will seize the opportunity to cross Wushui River and head straight for Meishan Prefecture."

    "Afterward, Vice Admiral Yu can try to break through on his own, if... there''s still a chance."

    "Hahaha!"

    After listening, Yu Song burst into heartyughter, "That''s right! You should have arranged it like this from the start. In doing so, Meishan Prefecture is as good as gone. The unrest in Ming State, once the court''s army arrives, won''t take long to be quelled!

    "Come, to celebrate our mighty feat, let''s drink!"

    "I''ll go catch a rabbit to roast."

    Chen Sansi picked up a bow and arrow, and went into the forest ahead. In less than the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, he returned with a wild rabbit. Then, using the Zhenyue Sword, he butchered it cleanly and started a fire to roast the meat beside a stream.

    The two men ate the rabbit meat and drank wine, unknowingly passing from dusk deep into the night.

    "Alright!"

    Yu Song, with a hint of intoxication, said, "I need to practice some martial arts to sober up; we still have to depart after daybreak. General Chen should also hurry and make preparations, don''t dy the military opportunity."

    "Your subordinate obeys the order!"

    Chen Sansi bowed with his fist, turned, walked a few steps then stopped, "Vice Admiral Yu, do you have anyst requests for your subordinate to carry out?"

    Calling it a request was really a euphemism for a final wish; both understood it very well.

    "I almost forgot about that."

    Yu Song grinning said, "I do have something I''d like to ask General Chen to do. I have three sons at home who don''t like studying but love martial arts. The oldest one has a decent constitution. There won''t be a position for Selected Point under Supervisor anymore, so please take some time to teach him a couple of moves when you have a moment, General Chen. You are the closed-door disciple of Lord Governor, and your teaching is no different from the Lord Governor himself¡ªhaha, much better than me. I''m benefiting from a great bargain."

    "I will provide for your son until his end!"

    Chen Sansi promised and then bowed before departing.

    Outside the woods.

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    Wang Zhi and Xu Wencai finally located them.

    "Looks like there''s no need for us to persuade anymore."

    "Yes..."

    Xu Wencai breathed a sigh of relief, "The lord is good in all things, ruthless enough to enemies, but only soft-hearted when ites to our own people. But after this time, I guess the lord will not be like this anymore..."

    "Senior brother."

    Chen Sansi stopped in front of Wang Zhi, "You should meet with Vice Admiral Yu, in another identity."

    "Me? With the way I look, how could I face anyone?"

    Wang Zhi forced a smile, "Well, since you put it that way, I''ll brave my shame and have a chat. Honestly, I could stay behind too. If I meet some Internal Refiners, I could still hold my own in a fight."

    "Senior brother."

    Chen Sansi objected, "You are needed; who knows, perhapster on, there might even be a chance to cure your old mdy!"

    Even an Immortal might be repairable.

    The injury to a martial artist''s meridians may yet have a chance of healing.

    "Alright then."@@novelbin@@

    Wang Zhi, carrying his sword, went forth.

    The next morning, early.

    The troops split into two groups.

    Chen Sansi led two thousand men to cross the river to the west, temporarily hiding near the junction of the Hongze and Wushui Rivers.

    ...

    "Kill!"

    "Don''t let a single one escape!"

    "Princely Heir Cao Fan and Sha Wenlong are among these civilians!"

    "..."

    "Spare us, military lords!"

    "We''re justmoners, not soldiers..."

    "Pu-chi¡ª"

    Outside Yangchun Prefecture, amidst barren hills and wild ridges.

    Commoners were everywhere.

    The rebel army was in pursuit from behind.

    In the midst of the chaos.

    Disguised as civilians, Sha Wenlong and Cao Fan, having discarded even their weapons, ran desperately forward in a sorry state.

    "I can''t go on..."

    "Thud¡ª"

    Cao Fan, running, suddenly copsed.

    He hadn''t eaten for ten days, and if not for the robust physique of a martial artist, he would''ve starved to death long ago. But precisely because of his martial arts training, his body''s depletion was greater, making the hunger excruciatingly painful.

    "Young Master, please wait!"

    Sha Wenlong leapt away and soon after snatched some dry food from the fleeingmoners, "Please eat, Young Master. Once you''re done, we''ll continue on our journey."

    The two were dressed in tatters, their faces crudely disguised with Disguise Technique, looking nothing like a Great General and Princely Heir, but rather like pair of beggars.

 Chapter 147 One General Achieves Success Part 4

    As for the others...

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    They''re probably mostly dead by now, buying them quite a bit of time.

    The lives of two thousand men, exchanged for their two lives, was too good a deal!

    "Princely Heir, I just went to the forest and received a report from Hai Dongqing!"

    Sha Wenlong said reassuringly, "General L¨¹ is about to break through Sword Gate Canyon toe to our aid. Truly, his valor is unmatched in history; we are saved! Princely Heir? You... you''re wounded?"

    "Cough cough..."

    Cao Fan wiped the blood from the corner of his mouth, copsing to the ground, "I was internally injured while defending the city. General Sha, you need not worry about me."

    "Absurd! I am Sheng Chen!"

    Sha Wenlong carried the Princely Heir on his back, "Your Highness, please don''t give up. Chen Sansi and others are indeed dead this time. Once we get out, if we follow General L¨¹ Ji and achieve a few merits, upon your return to Liangzhou, you''ll be the leading True Inheritor!"

    ...

    Luotian Pass.

    Yu Song led over a thousand men, camping on the ins thirty li outside the pass, using fabrics collected along the way as military gs and beating drums that shook heaven and earth, entirely appearing like a massive army about to storm the gate at any moment.

    Inside the pass''s fortress.

    Liu Shoujiang, in charge of defending, stood at a high point, watching the fiercely advancing Great Sheng soldiers, his expression grave.

    "General, what should we do?!"

    A subordinate asked frantically, "With so many people, shouldn''t we immediately notify Liang Dashuai to gather all the troops from the west bank here?"

    "What''s the rush; if it''s just a feint to bluff us, wouldn''t it cause Meishan Prefecture to fall into danger? Liang Dashuai has warned of this!"

    Liu Shoujiang said sternly, "Pass my order, for now maintain our defense and observe the enemy. Once they begin to storm the pass, send out two Hua Jin Generals to probe their reality. Unless it is confirmed that their main general Yu Song is present, consider it merely a feint!"

    One dayter.

    "Report!"

    "General! Just now, the enemy attacked the city. Both Hua Jin Generals we sent to break their formation were killed, and through reconnaissance, it''s confirmed that the one attacking is a General in the Meridian Passage Realm. Besides Yu Song, who else could it be!"

    "Where are they now?"

    "They withdrew just before dawn, also suffering heavy losses. We roughly counted, and just the dead on their side are over four hundred men, no doubt their main force!"

    "Oh yes, there was also a young general wielding a long spear. Hearing how they shouted, it seemed like that Chen Sansi!"

    "Good!"

    Liu Shoujiang rejoiced, "In that case, with Yu Song and Chen Sansi both present, quickly write a letter, tell Liang Dashuai to immediately have the forces on the west bank cross the river to encircle them. The sooner, the better, don''t give them another chance to escape!"

    The intelligence was swiftly written, tied to the leg of a ck Hawk, and flown toward the west, in the direction of Meishan.

    This ck Hawk was incredibly swift!

    It was sent by the West Qi Kingdom after their alliance with the Red Eyebrow Army, iparably precious, even more so than the Hai Dongqing often used by the Great Sheng Dynasty.

    ...

    Reserve Camp, campsite.

    In the darkness.

    The Great Vige, having only five hundred men left, was still brightly lit with torches; all the soldiers patrolled, not a single one rested, thus creating the illusion of substantial military strength.

    "How was it, Qian, ying Chen Sansi today, was it exciting?"

    Yu Song looked at the young Refining Internal beside him, joking, "Scaring the fools at Luotian Pass silly."@@novelbin@@

    "Exciting, yes, but my cultivation is a bit low, I almost blew it a few times!"

    Captain Qian said a bit awkwardly, "Luckily those they sent out to probe weren''t too powerful, and with Vice Admiral Yu''s help covering for me, I barely managed to bluff through."

    "Qian, do you feel wronged?"

    Yu Song passed over thest of Drunk Saint, "You''re only twenty-five or twenty-six years old."

    "It was I who insisted on following you, so what''s there to feel wronged about?"

    Captain Qian smiled, "Besides, if Mr. Chen and the others seed, it would mean having aplished a great feat; by then, our families will surely be richly rewarded, no need for us to worry about them."

    "Yes, you''re right."

    Yu Song stood up, a trace of excitement hidden in his eyes, "We soldiers, who doesn''t have the ambition to achieve Heavenly Merit? To fulfill those ambitions would mean dying without regrets!

    "Moreover, after this, General Chen will truly havemanded arge-scale battle, umting rich experience. Once the Commander retires, there''s hope for the Eight Camps! You and I, fortunate to take part in this battle, haven''t lived in vain!"

    Captain Qian looked toward the fish-belly white of dawn in the east, "Vice Admiral Yu, the problem is we can''t hold out much longer..."

    They ultimately only had a little more than a thousand men.

    Now only half remained after several onughts.

    A couple more assaults would expose them.

    "Estimating the time, it should be soon."

    Yu Song silently watched the empty wilderness ahead, falling into silence.

    ...

    Meishan Prefecture.

    "Husband, please drink the medicine."

    Gao Peiwen held a spoon, urging, "If your body copses, how will you aplish what you''ve nned?"

    Liang Jinian said nothing but stared at the map, muttering, "I can''t afford to lose any more, the effect of the Immortal Items is weakening. If I lose again... there should be news from Luotian Pass by now..."

    "Cheep¡ª"

    An acute screeching sound rang out.

    A dark figure flew directly through the window into the room,nding in front of the schr.

    Liang Jinian quickly took the intelligence from the dark figure''s leg, reading it before his face lit up with unabashed joy, "Good! The presence of main general Yu Song at Luotian Pass is confirmed; they are doomed this time!

    "Someone, someone!

    "Pass down mymander''s order, let the entire army cross the river, and march straight to Luotian Pass! After eradicating the Reserve Camp, stay at Luotian Pass and prepare to meet up with Dong An''s troops arrivingter, getting ready to face the forcesing from the Great Wilderness of the Sheng Dynasty Capital."

 Chapter 147 One General Achieves Success Part 5

    ```

    "It''s over, it''s all over!"

    As long as the Reserve Camp''s remnants are sessfully annihted, we will be able to steady the situation in the southeast corner and then block the Capital''s troopsing from Sheng Dynasty. At worst, we will be entangled in a protracted war of attrition with Sheng Dynasty''s forces. The grand scheme of Ming State, is settled!"

    ...

    Outside Luotian Pass.

    The eastern sky slowly weed a rising red sun.

    A fast horse galloped out of the morning glow, its rider, a scout, bellowed in a loud voice, "Report¡ª¡ª"

    "On the west bank of the Hongze River, in the direction of Meishan Prefecture, at least seven thousand troops are crossing the river!"

    "Based on their march, it will take them at most another day and a half to reach the grand Luotian Pass!"

    "Good!"

    Yu Song was overjoyed and with a wave of his hand, ordered, "Set fire, burn the mountain!"

    "The rest of you, follow me and break through to the Great Wilderness."

    "Break through¡ª¡ª"

    ...

    Wulian Mountain.

    This ce is where Hongze River meets Wushui River.

    Chen Sansi had his men waiting here well in advance.

    "General Chen."

    Lu Shuhua counted the days, "We''ve been hiding in this spot for four or five days, howe we''ve seen no signal from Vice Admiral Yu and his men? If this doesn''t work, should we turn back?"

    "Wait a bit longer."

    Chen Sansi replied calmly, "Vice Admiral Yu and his men are capable."

    "Smoke¡ª¡ª"

    "Fire!"

    No sooner had he spoken, than everyone saw billowing ck smoke rising in the southeast, like a ck dragon ascending to the skies, spiraling above Luotian Pass and ferociously devouring the momentum of the Red Eyebrow Army.

    Sess!

    Due to the distance between them to ensure rapidmunication, setting the mountains on fire was used as the signal.

    Now that the wildfire had spread for a hundred miles, it indicated that Vice Admiral Yu and his men sessfully attracted thest of Red Eyebrow Army''s elite forces, leaving their main stronghold, Meishan Prefecture, in an unprecedented state of vulnerability.

    Next!

    It is the final dance of this battle!

    "Prepare the chariot, General!"

    "Convey mymand!"

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    Chen Sansi''s pupils gleamed resolutely in the sunlight, his voice as sonorous as a great bell, reverberated in the ears of two thousand soldiers, "After the entire army crosses the Hongze River, seize the bridge and cross the Wushui River, then march straight for Meishan Prefecture, capture Liang Jinian alive!"

    "Capture Liang Jinian alive!"

    "Capture Liang Jinian alive!!!"

    Two thousand men shouted in unison, their morale soaring to unprecedented heights.

    At this moment.

    In Chen Sansi''s eyes, the phrase "Sinking Formation Death Will" surfaced once again. Even if individuals like Yan Changqing had different thoughts due to their status and positions, at this very moment, everyone shared onemon goal in mind¡ªkill the traitors!

    "Who says I bear no clothes, with my brothers I share my robe!"

    "Brothers, cross the river¡ª¡ª"

    They were already well-prepared, crossing the Hongze River for the fourth time within a mere two days.

    Qian Xun and other horses had long been waiting on the riverbank.

    The Wushui River, it has a bridge!

    Their horses could advance unobstructed, reaching Meishan Prefecture at lightning-fast speed, appearing like Heavenly Soldiers descending upon the earth.

    ...

    "Break through¡ª¡ª"

    The remnants of the Reserve Camp, led by Yu Song.

    Thest thirty horsemen, riding on seized warhorses, set fire to the mountains on their return journey after failing to force their way through Luotian Pass, resolving to cross back over the Hongze River and re-enter the heart of Ming State.

    Unfortunately, they were surrounded on all sides by the enemy army, encircled as tightly as if in an iron barrel.

    In a valley.

    They were left with no room to retreat.

    "Howe there are only so few men?"

    Liu Shoujiang reined in his horse, frowning at the mere thirty-odd riders before them, and demanded loudly, "Yu Song! Where are the rest of your men? Tell us their whereabouts and you will be spared!"

    They were the ones who had converged from all directions, theoretically, no one should have been able to escape.@@novelbin@@

    But they had only managed to kill less than a thousand enemies; the Reserve Camp''s remnants clearly numbered more than three thousand.

    The answer they received was the sound of swords being drawn.

    "Reserve Camp, charge¡ª¡ª"

    Yu Song raised the Mo de high.

    Thest thirty or so riders of the Reserve Camp charged into the enemy army''s formation of tens of thousands. In an instant, they were overwhelmed, disappearing without a trace, like mud cows into the sea...

    ...

    Yangchun Prefecture.

    The rebel army''s main camp.

    Dong An, donning his full armour with the help of his attendants, took up a He Miao Long Sword. He looked much better than he had in days, his eyes brimming with confidence.

    "Report!"

    "Outside the city, about fifty miles away, we suspect we''ve discovered traces of Sha Wenlong and others!"

    "General Xiang is already in pursuit."

    "Commander, do you wish to go see for yourself?"

    "Mm, I know, once the battle report from Meishan Prefecture arrives, I will personally go there myself."

    Dong An, holding a writing brush, sketched and nned on a map.

    But his focus wasn''t on the movements of the Reserve Camp''s remnants; instead, he was strategizing the overall situation in Ming State.

    The Reserve Camp''s men couldn''t possibly still be alive. The arrangements at Luotian Pass were foolproof, and the feint they employed was no longer effective. That Chen kid has run out of tricks atst!

    Once the confirmation of the result matches his prediction, Dong An will personally don his armor, first to pursue and kill Sha Wenlong and then to assist Zhong Wuxin in the battle against Ji at Sword Gate Canyon.

    The subsequent battles, however, seemed uninteresting to him, simply a contest of military strength and logistical support, without much room for surprises.

    "Report¡ª¡ª"

    "Word from Luotian Pass, the Reserve Camp''s remnants have beenpletely wiped out!"

    "Vice Admiral Yu Song''s head is on its way here!"

    "..."

    "Hmm, wait a second..."

    Dong An sensed something amiss, "Only Yu Song? Where''s Chen Sansi''s head?"

    "Commander..."

    The soldier bowed his head, not daring to meet his gaze: "There''s more important news. ording to the battle report from Liu Anxing, they killed around a thousand of the enemy, the whereabouts of the other two thousand are unknown..."

    Dong An shouted angrily, "Nonsense! Speak clearly!"

    "Commander, I have told all there is to tell!"

    ```

 Chapter 147 One General Achieves Success Part 6

    The soldier''s voice trembled slightly, "It''s just that we didn''t find the person."

    "Just? Two thousand people missing, and you tell me it''s just?!"

    "Bang¡ª"

    Dong An kicked violently.

    The soldier spat out blood and died on the spot.

    Inside the tent, there was deadly silence, none of the soldiers dared to speak.

    Dong An returned to the front of the map, picked up the brush again, and mumbled to himself as he analyzed:

    "Impossible!"

    "The Reserve Camp was surrounded by arge army from all four directions!"

    "After they attacked Luotian Pass, it was absolutely impossible for them to have time to retreat!"

    "Unless..."

    "Unless these two thousand men never really went to attack Luotian Pass but had hidden away early!"

    "That means..."

    "This attack on Luotian Pass was another diversion!"

    "No!"

    "All the main generals were there!"

    "Yu Song''s head has already been cut off, this has been confirmed by multiple sources, there is no mistake!" Stay updated with My Virtual Library Empire

    "All the main generals were killed in battle"

    "Absurd!"

    "How could there ever be an example of main generals letting their subordinates die to cover their escape!"

    "If it really was so, what were they trying to do?"

    "Where did the other two thousand men escape to!"

    Dong An spared no effort, brought in a brand new map, and reyed the course of the battle in Ming State from beginning to end, until midnight when a loud thunder sounded in the sky, and the brush in his hand dropped to the floor with a "plop."

    "Whoosh¡ª"

    Ming State was hit by a downpour again, extinguishing thest flicker of hope in his heart.

    "It''s all over... all over..."

    "Thump¡ª"

    "Commander!"

    The soldiers hurriedly came forward.

    This time.

    Two hourster, Dong An finally opened his eyes again; hey on the cot, his lips pale as if he had walked back from the brink of death: "Go tell Liang Jinian to run... never mind, it''s toote..."

    "Toote, what do you mean toote?"

    The soldiers, confused by what they heard, felt an inexplicable panic as they looked at themander.

    "Commander!"

    A Deputy General leaned over the cot and earnestly asked, "Commander, please exin clearly, you''re a brilliant strategist, how could it be toote, even if it''s just to minimize our losses."

    "..."

    Dong An closed his eyes and said nothing more, as if he were a dying man.

    "This..."

    The men had no choice but to go inform Liang Jinian.

    ...

    Meanwhile.

    Meishan Prefecture.

    "Outrageous!"

    Liang Jinian angrily mmed the table: "Two thousand men! How could Liu Anxing let so many people go and then tell me they''re untraceable?!"

    "Commander, where could they be?"

    Thest City Guard General in Meishan Prefecture, He Xianliang, asked: "From the moment they attacked Luotian Pass, they shouldn''t have had any chance to escape!"

    "Not good!"

    Liang Jinian paled in shock, "They never even attacked Luotian Pass."

    "How, how could that be possible?"

    He Xianliang said, "Commander, the head of Yu Song from the remnants of the Reserve Camp is undeniably real. Could the Main General have stayed behind to cover our retreat with his life?"

    "It''s exactly because of this that they fooled all of us! Deceitful, deceitful viins!"

    Liang Jinian wanted to flip the table, butcking the strength, he instead ended up falling to the ground, where he roared fiercely: "How could this be, how could this be!@@novelbin@@

    "Even if he is exceptional, he is still just a Thousand Captain!"

    "A Thousand Captain couldmand a Main General to willingly die; there''s no logic in this at all!"

    "How could Yu Song have consented!"

    "Someone,e quickly!"

    "He Xianliang, how many men do we have left?"

    He Xianliang answered, "Commander''s trusted aide, plus thest of the City Guard Army, we still have over two hundred men left. Is something the matter?"

    "Over two hundred men, not enough to defend the city..."

    Liang Jinian grabbed the map, "Wait, I remember, aren''t there still over eighteen hundred people ughtering in Linhe County?"

    "Yes, Commander."

    He Xianliang exined, "These people are the original veterans of Meishan Mountain Vige. After winning the central region''s battles, they came back here as a reward from you, Commander, for ughtering the city."

    "There''s still time!"

    Liang Jinian ordered, "Immediately summon them back to Meishan Prefecture, and be sure to intercept the remnants of the Reserve Camp on the road!"

    "What?"

    Hearing this, He Xianliang finally understood why the Commander was so panicked, and said incredulously, "Commander, you mean to say... this can''t be possible, right?"

    "Commander, it''s terrible!"

    A member of the Red Eyebrow Army burst into the hall, dripping with urine: "A hundred li outside the city, we found, we found approximately two thousand cavalry, it''s unknown where they came from! They im to be Heavenly Soldiers and Generals, and they are here to reim the Heavenly Book bestowed to the Commander by the Immortal!"

    "This..."

    He Xianliang was in shock.

    The remains of the Reserve Camp indeed appeared just as the Commander had said.

    What''s the difference between this and real Heavenly Soldiers and Generals!

    "Nonsense, they are the remnants of the Reserve Camp, where are any Heavenly Soldiers!"

    Liang Jinian angrily said, "They are saying this merely to intimidate you!"

    He knew, if they seeded, the rebel army''s might would copse in an instant.

    Everyone across the world would think him devoid of virtue and capability, the Heavenly Book would return to Dasheng, signifying Dasheng''s power is not yet exhausted, and it was all just an unremarkable rebellion!"

    "Fine, I will use the Heavenly Book, and have a decisive battle to the death with you!"

    Liang Jinian removed several pages of golden paper from his person, flowing with mystical Formation symbols."

    He Xianliang immediately knelt down: "Please bestow the formation, Commander!"

    "Boom¡ª¡ª"

    A surge of Mystical Energy that mortals could not perceive entered He Xianliang''s body.

    "Go."

    Liang Jinian swept his sleeve: "After the bestowed formation, you all will have the strength for a battle!"

    "Rest assured, Commander!"

    He Xianliang epted themand: "Since Yu Song has died, even if it''s that Chen Sansi leading men here, at his best he has only just reached Minor Hua Jin, while I, at least, have achieved Minor Meridian Passage. Plus with the formation bestowed by the Commander, I swear on my life, I will definitely win this battle, and then bring back Chen''s head to present to the Commander!"

    "Quickly go."

    Liang Jinian said nothing more, just watching his silhouette as he slowly closed his eyes and sighed.

    The Red Eyebrow Army''s severeck of high-ranking generals was their fatal w.

    But He Xianliang, havinge from a Major Sect and achieved Minor Meridian Passage, might not necessarily be inferior to that Chen Sansi.

    Nevertheless.

    If this battle seeds, it''s not yet toote.

    If this battle is lost, his life is over.

    ¡ª¡ª

 Chapter 148 Set the Overall Situation, Obtain the Heavenly Book

    Outside Meishan Prefecture.

    Dark clouds covered the sky, thunder rumbled continuously.

    A fierce storm erupted, evil qi rising!

    More than two thousand cavalry charged south from the north bank of Wushui, harboring a towering killing intent. Above the pitch-ck heavenly dome, each sh of lightning illuminated the dense and uniformly arranged cavalry formation, truly as if the Heavenly God was furious, a divine army descending.

    Along the way, passing county towns, none were without terror.

    "Chi Meick virtue, the heavenly generalse to collect!"@@novelbin@@

    "..."

    The deafening slogan quickly resonated along the north bank of Wushui, spreading among the people.

    This is.

    The momentum to kill!

    "Report!"

    Zhao Kang, riding his horse swiftly, arrived, "Sir, ten miles ahead, an army formation appears on the essential road to Meishan Prefecture, it looks like they''ve hurried over from the nearby Linhe County!"

    "General Chen!"

    Lu Shuhua asked, "What do you think we should do!"

    "Kill!"

    Chen Sansi spat out a word.

    There isn''t always a strategy avable, when necessary, there''s only one word, kill!

    Amidst thunder and lightning, the two armies encountered each other directly.

    Looking as far as the eye can see.

    The Red Eyebrow Army arrayed their formation, which isn''t recorded in the Military Books.

    The Heavenly Book Formation!

    Their formation was orderly, and vaguely, it seemed they were utilizing the power of heaven and earth, with a stream of pure white Xuan Qi circling above them, from a distance appearing like a vast fog rising on a rainy night.

    "Brothers!"

    He Xianliang, in the center of the formation, raised his spear high, his voice shaking the rain on his face, "The Commander just granted us the formation, we are the real Divine Weapons Descending, as said in the Heavenly Book, this battle is our destined victory for the Commander to stabilize the heavens and earth!

    "The troops ahead, are nothing but remnants and defeated soldiers of the Reserve Camp, like rats scurrying through the state of Ming, leading them Chen Sansi, merely a Thousand Captain, I could take him down under my horse with just a snap of my fingers!

    "So brothers, charge freely! A head for an ounce of gold!"

    "Kill, kill, kill!"

    "Boom, boom, boom!"

    The enemy''s momentum was equally enormous.

    "Heavenly Book..."

    Chen Sansi, looking at the white Xuan Qi above their heads, gripped the Five Tigers Soul-breaking Spear firmly in his hands with a determined gaze.

    He really wanted to see, what treasure granted by the Immortal!

    Because it was bestowed to the Red Eyebrow Army, the scourge that ughters towns and people!

    If it is true.

    Then this Immortal,

    should also be killed!

    "Kill¡ª¡ª"

    No more strategies.

    The Reserve Camp''s soldiers also arrayed into formation, charging with the One Line Long Snake Formation, transitioning into the Heaven and Earth Triadic Formation, followed by the Four Gates Capture Formation to surround and attack, then assisted by the Five Tigers Herding Sheep Formation, until atst, the more than two thousand men gradually fused into one, forming the Nine Characters Chain Formation, ultimately transforming into the Ambush from All Sides Formation!

    This is.

    The Ten Formations of the Military Family!

    In contrast, the Red Eyebrow Army''s formation was moreplex. Under the mist-like Xuan Qi and leveraging the power of heaven and earth, they unleashedbat power far beyond their normal capacity.

    So much so that in the initial rounds of charges, both sides suffered equally, the young elites of the Reserve Camp gained no advantage!

    Chen Sansi, using the Qi Observation Skill among the waterfall-like rains, sought his target, and finally found their Main General at the core of the enemy''s formation, his aura foundation far stronger than Jia Lao Si, estimated to be around the realms of Minor Meridian Passage.

    Yet another tricky problem!

    This was why after Yu Song appeared at Luotian Pass, the enemy firmly believed that the Reserve Camp was truly attacking Luotian Pass with all their strength, thus lowering their guard as an essential reason. Enjoy new stories from My Virtual Library Empire

    They had no senior generals left!

    Without thebat prowess of a Meridian Passage Realm such as Yu Song, their threat was greatly diminished. Even if they truly appeared outside Meishan Prefecture, they still had to face a high-level general of Minor Meridian Passage.

    Chen Sansi quickly assessed the current situation in his mind.

    Beyond the suppression of realms, there was another key point.

    He noticed that all the "white Xuan Qi" originated from this enemy general.

    Just kill him!

    The "Heavenly Book" enhancement would naturally copse!

    "Lu Shuhua, Xie Sishu, one on each side, cover me!"

    Chen Sansi gave the order, then spurred his horse forward with his spear in hand.

    "Yes!"

    Lu Shuhua and the others acted asmanded, closely following his side, blocking attacks from all directions.

    "ng¡ª"

    The sound of weapons shing and the thunder in the sky exploded simultaneously, the formidable impact scattering a burst of water in the air. Under the terrifying impact, Chen Sansi''s Vajra Body, fueled by the racing blood of the Jiao Long, began to vibrate, his man and horse reared up high, like a painting under the brilliance of the lightning.

    After all, it was a Mastery of Meridian Passage!

    If not for the extraordinary White Swan Horse, his horse might not have withstood this strike.

    "Minor Hua Jin?!"

    He Xianliang showed a look of astonishment.

    The intelligence was clear, it only marked him as Refining Internal Organs Perfection at the end of the Selected Point, before dispatching to Ming State, at most at the entry-level of Hua Jin. Just half a year and he''s achieved Minor Hua Jin?

    What a speed!

    Fortunately, it was still Minor Hua Jin.

    He was at Mastery of Meridian Passage.

    Between them, spanning three realms!

    After a single exchange, the two warhorses sprinted past each other, then immediately turned, initiating a second sh, long spear and long spear continually colliding, like two Jiao Long wrestling, both aiming to use this rainstorm to ascend into dragons. The prerequisite, however, was swallowing the other to empower themselves!

    The most distinctive aspect of the Meridian Passage Realm was the formal use of the meridians!

    Flesh, Qi-Blood, and power, all maximized to the extreme,ying the groundwork for the next phase, the Profound Image Realm.

 Chapter 149 Terrifying the World

    Meishan Prefecture.

    [Cultivation Technique: National Guardian Dragon Spear. Hua Jin (small achievement)]

    [Progress: 855/2000]

    Atop the city wall, Chen Sansi put down his long spear.

    After the Spiritual Rice Medicine Ointment was used up, the pace of his cultivation slowed down significantly.

    It had been a full ten days since the execution of the rebel Liang Jinian to the present.

    "Chirp¡ª¡ª"

    Chen Sansi finally received a response from Hai Dongqing.

    This time it flew back from the southeast, outside the Great Wilderness; it was a reply from the Capital City Army!

    Opening the intelligence report.

    Chen Sansi learned that the army was led by Martial Saint Jiang Yuanbo, and they would arrive at the Great Wall within ten more days at most.

    Setting off from Meishan Prefecture now would be just right.

    As long as they could join up with the main force, it would be equivalent to victory.

    "Pass down mymand!"

    "Move out¡ª¡ª"

    ...

    Sword Gate Canyon.

    West Qi Kingdom''s military camp.

    "Leave ten thousand troops to cover the rear in the canyon!"

    "The rest, retreat silently!"

    Zhong Wuxinmanded his soldiers in the darkness, "Within fifteen days, you must return to the Northwest!"

    "Report!"

    A soldier hurried back on a galloping horse, nearly tumbling off it.

    "What''s the matter?"

    Zhong Wuxin asked hastily, "Has Dong An''s troops retreated?"

    "Commander, it''s bad!"

    The soldier said in a panic, "Dong... Dong An, he... hemitted suicide!"

    "Suicide? Are you joking with me?!"

    Zhong Wuxin could scarcely believe his ears and suspected he was hallucinating due tock of rest. He grabbed the other party and demanded, "What''s the reason?"

    "I don''t know!"

    The soldier replied, "The people from the Mingzhou Army said that Dong Anmitted suicide shortly after seeing the death notice of Liang Jinian, without saying another word to them!"

    "Fool, Dong An is truly a fool!"

    Even though Zhong Wuxin had deep schemes, upon receiving this news, he couldn''t help but lose hisposure and cursed, "His death ruins the grand revival of our Great Qi!"

    After a moment of thought, he understood why Dong chose to take his own life.

    Firstly, the shock of losing to a young person around seventeen or eighteen was too great.

    Dong An was famously obsessed with military strategies. Since the age of ten, he had studied warfare andter considered Fang Qingyun to be his greatest nemesis in life. As such, he set winning against Fang Qingyun in military tactics as his biggest goal, which was also an important reason why he allied with West Qi.

    But as a result...

    Before he could even defeat Fang Qingyun, another even more formidable Chen Sansi appeared.

    And the tactics used in the Four Crossings of the Hongze River were probably beyond what even Fang Qingyun could conceive; it was genius!

    No, it should be said that no one in the entire world could!

    There was not a single person capable of achieving such a feat!

    Going over the campaign again on the map made it clear just how terrifying it was. That was the true art of warfare, the true tactics. Chen Sansi didn''t justmand his own men, he directly...

    Commanded the enemy!

    It was terrifying!

    Even now, Zhong Wuxin still felt a deep reverence for that young man whose face he hadn''t yet seen, whom he only knew by name. If that person lived, he could surpass Ji, even Sun Xiangzong, it wasn''t impossible!

    This battle, if it had been concocted by a storyteller...

    That storyteller would surely be cursed to death, pelted with rotten eggs and spoiled vegetables for fabricating lies!

    But by some fluke...

    The Four Crossings of the Hongze were real!

    After this battle...

    The young man''s name would surely echo throughout thend!

    From then on, known by all, recognized by all!

    How could Dong An endure such a tremendous blow?

    Secondly, of course, it was about the Heavenly Book.

    Unlike Liang Jinian''s rebellion for power, Dong An rebelled purely for the Heavenly Book.

    Now that the Heavenly Book was in Chen Sansi''s hands, he would never be able to obtain it again.

    For Dong An, this battle naturally lost all its meaning.

    With such a double blow, how could he not take his own life?

    But his life was of little consequence, yet it brought about disaster for the entire Qi!

    "Damn it!"

    Zhong Wuxin kept repeating the curse, "If I had known earlier, who would have needed to employ the ''catching turtles in a jar'' strategy!"

    Originally...

    The n was for the armies of Great Qi to march directly into Ming State territory and engage the troops of the Great Sheng Dynasty head-on.

    Liang Jinian and Dong An had proposed the strategy together.

    iming they had a way to first consume four thousand troops of the Great Sheng Dynasty along with a bunch of Innate Martial Saints, seize the "momentum," and then take advantage of Sun Xiangzong''s absence to swiftly defeat Liangzhou and the Great Sheng.

    But in the end...

    It wasn''t about catching turtles, but reaping the whirlwind, basically shooting themselves in the foot!@@novelbin@@

    If they had known this would happen, they could have fought a direct battle. Even if it came at a greater cost, they still had a fifty percent chance of winning!

    Now, there was no chance at all!

    "Commander, I haven''t finished what I was saying."

    The soldier continued, "Dong An''s Deputy General Li Tiancheng and others seem to be converging towards us. They say that after losing theirmander, they are unsure of what to do and hope to merge with us before making any further ns."

    "No good!"

    Zhong Wuxin immediately realized, "They are noting to join forces, they have betrayed us to encircle us with Ji! Hurry, retreat, don''t leave a single man behind, the whole army withdraws overnight, head straight back west of the Great Wall!"

    "Doesn''t that mean..."

    A few deputy generals who had been listening by his side asked, "We''re not fighting anymore?"

    "What''s there to fight for!"

    Zhong Wuxin snapped angrily, "With Dong An alive there was still a chance, but with his and Liang Jinian''s deaths, our ''momentum'' ispletely lost. Continuing the fight is certain defeat, even being slow to retreat won''t do, quick!"

    "Retreat¡ª¡ª"

    ...

    Xuanwu Camp''s military camp.

    "Boss!"

    "Good news!"

    "Great news!"

    Nie Yuan burst into the tent with excitement, holding a sealed letter in his hand.

    "Sansi, why are you bing more impulsive?"

    Just as Ji was putting on his armor and picking up his mighty Heavenly Halberd, he said, "How good can the news be, Dong An is dead or something?"

 Chapter 150 Loyal Heroic Tablet, Incense Fire Divine Sect

    Uncle Master...

    The Ci Yun Temple indeed has many Taoists who wander outside, buting back at this critical juncture, I''m afraid it''s greatly connected to the "Immortal Elixir" and the "Incense Burner," and it''s quite possible that they are the masterminds behind everything.

    If we wait for them to return, grabbing the incense burner will be an extra hassle, and it''s not impossible that the incense burner could be taken away directly.

    We can''t dy any longer.

    We must take this opportunity while Ci Yun Temple is unattended.

    "Thousand Captain Li is right,"

    Chen Sansi didn''t forget to respond, "I''ve also been there twice, the old Taoist only spoke of grand but empty things."

    "Exactly, that''s what I said."

    Li Qianzong continued to talk about other recent events.

    For example, the Witch God Sect is causing a stir, with various sects bing increasingly agitated and beginning to organize search teams privately to look for hiding spots of the sect followers. They even curse the Liangzhou Army as useless and the like.

    Among them, Manor Master Wen Zhi of Moon Splitting Mountain Vi lost two of his beloved disciples and has been patrolling all over the ce like a madman, swearing to the heavens that he will expose the Witch God Sect Followers no matter what.

    "Alright, let''s not talk about this anymore."

    Chen Sansi said his goodbyes, "I still have some matters to attend to."

    "Go ahead."

    Li Qianzong joked, "General Chen, your military achievements this time are impressive. It''s hard to say about your merit, but at the very least you should be promoted from Fifth Rank and at the very least be an Assistant General in the army. The next time I see you, I''ll have to address you as Vice General Chen."

    "I hope so, auspicious words from Thousand Captain Li."

    Chen Sansi said with a fist salute, "Let''s gather the brothers we know sometime soon, I''ll treat everyone at the Immortal Crane Tower."

    "Great, we''ll definitely take the chance to feast at your expense then!"

    "See you then! See you then!"

    After dealing with the military affairs, it was nearing midnight.

    When Chen Sansi returned to his bedroom, he saw Sister Lan breastfeeding the child, and there seemed to be no room for him on the bed because Yunxi was also sleeping in this room, apparently because Sister Lan was worried she would get scared.

    "Daddy."

    Chen Yunxi called out.

    It''s over a month''s journey from Ming State to Liangzhou.

    Having spent a month together, they had grown quite familiar with each other.

    "Alright, then Yunxi can stay here and apany your mother and brother,"

    Chen Sansi said, "You can go back to your own room after a while. I''ll be staying in the backyard for the time being."

    It was convenient for him to do some things.

    "Okay."

    Chen Yunxi nodded emphatically.

    Once in the backyard, Chen Sansi took a bath with the help of Si Qin, changed into clean clothes, theny on the bed to rest while taking out the "Bead."

    This object could produce an unknown "Mystical Energy" that could enhance formations, so he temporarily named it "Xuanzhu."

    On the journey there were always too many people and too much attention.

    Only now did Chen Sansi have the opportunity to study it in detail.

    It''s worth mentioning that since the Xuanzhu came into his possession, the Mystical Energy contained within began to increase continuously, from a weak stream at first to a small clump of white smoke now, which seemed to be still increasing gradually. He did not know the reason behind this.

    Chen Sansi held the Xuanzhu in his hand, closed his eyes, and tried to sense in the same state as when he was cultivating the Sword Qi Skill. Before long, he established a special connection with the Xuanzhu, and could then manipte the "Energy" inside to enhance himself. However, it seemed to be of no use as it did not enhancebat power for a single person. He also tried to use the Xuanzhu''s energy to cultivate the Sword Qi Skill, but that too failed. It seemed it could only be useful for army formations.

    Even so, it was absolutely a treasure!

    Or rather, it might be useless for a mere Martial Artist, but it was a supreme treasure for amander.

    The strongest battle of the Red Eyebrow Army was won thanks to the Xuanzhu, which broke through the Enemy Army. It was said that thebat power demonstrated even surpassed that of the Eight Camps. It''s worth noting the Red Eyebrow Army was established for less than a year, and even most of the High Realm Martial Artists were gathered from various sects.

    Furthermore, for some unknown reason, the energy stored in the Xuanzhu began to decrease, leading to a substantial weakening of the Red Eyebrow Army''sbat effectiveness. Even so, his troop still struggled outside Meishan Prefecture. If he could umte enough Mystical Energy and then use it in one battle, he couldn''t imagine the fighting power it would unleash.

    "Just don''t know how to umte it..."

    "It seems that the types of Mystical Energy are plentiful between heaven and earth, and we still know too little of it."

    "Well, no need to use it for now, since it''s slowly increasing. It''s better to save it."@@novelbin@@

    "As for the Heavenly Book..."

    Chen Sansi nned to hand it over to Mr. Hou in a couple of days, to avoid being questioned again, which was annoying enough.

    With these thoughts, he began to meditate, waiting until after everyone had fallen into a deep sleep before getting up quietly, armed himself and headed straight for Ci Yun Temple.

    There was no time to lose!

    The benefits of the Sword Qi Skill were too significant.

    This was still only entry-level; if he achieved even minor mastery, there should be no fear even when facing High Realm experts.

    Spirit Mist Mountain was silent as death.

    There were no patrolling disciples in Ci Yun Temple at night either.

    Chen Sansi had long ago rehearsed the infiltration route in his mind countless times, and he encountered no obstacles. With the help of Concealing Breath and Hiding and Sword Qi Skill, he was confident he wasn''t exposed and smoothly made his way inside the main hall.

    Looking at the incense burner shrouded in Purple Energy.

    Once again, he checked to make sure no one was following, then he slowly approached.

    Initially nning to simply pick it up and run, he noticed as he neared that there was a trace of red glow at the bottom of the incense burner¡ªthis was... blood!

    Chen Sansi became alert.

    Stay updated through My Virtual Library Empire

    This blood glow was in a very peculiar position, surely the work of someone with intent. And it seemed very likely to be some sort of tracking mechanism, to prevent the object from being stolen.

 Chapter 151 Hua Jin Great Success, War Resumes

    Chen Mansion, the back courtyard.

    "Buzz¡ª¡ª"

    "Whoosh¡ª¡ª"

    Si Qin, holding food and drink, stopped at the entrance to the back courtyard, listening to the noises inside that frightened her so much she didn''t dare toe any closer. There was just a door separating them, yet it sounded as if a gale was blowing inside.

    She didn''t dare to make a sound to disturb, gently put the things down at the door, and slipped away.

    Anotherte autumn hade.

    The thickyer of fallen leaves in the courtyard gradually gathered together beneath the Jiao Long-like dance of the long spear, eventually forming a golden tornado that swept through, shattering one flower bed after another, with the sound of popping and cracking continuously erupting.

    Inside Chen Sansi''s body, the blood of the dragon and elephant boiled and surged; his Xuan Yuan''s five organs were operating at full capacity, maintaining the Blood Explosion State while continuously generating powerful energy, which was then infused into the Five Tigers Soul-breaking Spear without stop.

    The path of Martial Arts.

    One misstep leads to a cascade of more.

    Starting with Qi-Blood, if one is naturally inferior to others, as their realms climb higher, the gap between the same levels will grow wider and wider, eventually forming a chasm too great to cross. This was the very reason why Selected Point deemed the bone assessment stage so crucial.

    Only martial artists with a strong physique could cultivate a more solid foundation.

    At this very moment.

    Chen Sansi continuously tested his limits to refine the purity and strength of his energy.

    With small achievement in Hua Jin, it meant to enhance one''s weapon with energy.

    And with great sess, one could externalize the energy to form ayer of force around the weapon, achieving a terrifying offensive power. Even without the weapon''s de making contact with the opponent, it could still inflict damage.

    If one were unarmed, using only hands, they could still block a sharp de with pure energy, provided their energy is indeed more powerful than the opponent''s, and they wouldn''t hurt themselves.

    Every time Chen Sansi thrust his long spear, he felt the energy infused on the gun tip grew stronger; gradually, it began to spill over the tip and then spread outward. He kept pushing himself deliberately, exhausting every bit of energy until he was worn out and had drained thest whiff of energy from his body.

    Then came a qualitative change.

    After the extreme pain, his body ascended once more; the energy born from his Qi-Blood and internal organs became more refined. When added to a Mystical Weapon, it was like an extendable sharp sword, expanding around it. Upon reaching the gun tip, it formed an invisible force wrapping around the de.

    Breakthrough!

    Hua Jin had achieved great sess!

    [Cultivation technique: National Guardian Dragon Spear. Hua Jin (Great Sess)]

    [Progress: 0/0]

    [Utility:..., True Dragon Strength]

    [True Dragon Strength: The energy rampages, akin to a True Dragon]

    The energy of amon person can be simply described as adding another invisible de around the weapon''s edge; it''s static, with only the differences in strength and no special qualities.

    But the energy of the True Dragon Strength is alive!

    "Buzz¡ª¡ª"@@novelbin@@

    Chen Sansi gripped the spear shaft with both hands, enhancing it with energy. The Five Tigers Soul-breaking Spear trembled incessantly, especially the buzzing from the gun tip, as if several small dragons were circling around the de.

    He didn''t use any moves or let the spear tip actually touch any object, just slowly pushed the long spear with True Dragon Strength, and when he was still more than an inch away from a potted nt, the ceramic pot burst open with a bang.

    Enjoy new adventures at My Virtual Library Empire

    Such a weak reference object still couldn''t manifest the full extent of the power.

    If he had to describe it, Chen Sansi felt that the True Dragon Strength outside his spear tip was like a chainsaw that could attack twice upon contact with an enemy, bound to be highly effective in realbat.

    "Done!"

    He wiped the sweat from his forehead and took a deep breath, "Next, it''s time to hit the Meridian Passage."

    The cultivation technique for the Meridian Passage Realm.

    Shortly after returning to Liangzhou, Sun Li brought it to him, still the National Guardian Dragon Spear,plete with the techniques up to the Xuanxiang Realm, including annotations and insights.

    She hadn''t given it to him all at once before because she must have added these thingster.

    Speaking of which.

    His master had vanished since he went to the Capital City, an ordinary man gone without a trace nearly a year, including the chaos in Ming State where it was rumored that the Emperor himself almost took to the field.

    Chen Sansi guessed there must have been something more important for him to attend to.

    But honestly, even his master''s presence didn''t have much significance for his cultivation anymore.

    As the saying goes, "The master guides you through the entry, but your progress depends on yourself."

    He had the cultivation technique and the supply of treasure medicine had never been interrupted.

    What remained was solely reliant on his own effort.

    Speaking of which, Chen Sansi had been anything but frugal with the treasure medicine, devouring it continuously as long as he could digest it. After Hua Jin, each pill could be worth thousands or even tens of thousands of taels, a cost that most officials would find unaffordable.

    Originally.

    His master demanded that he reach Martial Saint within three years.

    Now, a year had passed, and two major realms remained: Meridian Passage, Profound Image Realm, and finally Martial Saint.

    With enough resources...

    Perhaps?

    One can only do one''s best and leave the rest to fate.

    After a brief rest, Chen Sansi ate the food left at the door and then went back inside to lock the room. He took out a Xuanzhu filled with White Xuan Qi and purple incense, starting to practice the Sword Qi Skill.

    Once certain that the practice of magic would not be affected by the incense, he could confidently and boldly use it.

    Chen Sansi sat cross-legged, eyes closed, focusing on meditation.

    He held the Xuanzhu in his hand and, under the pull of his Spirit Root, continuously drew the energy from the incense into his body before circting it within his meridians ording to the pathways of the Sword Qi Skill.

    [Magic: Sword Qi Skill (Entry-level)]

    [Progress: 435/500]

 Chapter 152 Archery Perfection, Unavoidable

    The stages in developing Martial Arts and Spells had been achieved.

    Next, it was time to go hunting in the mountains.

    "I have already written Vice Admiral Yu''s petition, and it was sent via the six thousand li Divine Eagle express from the Ministry of Communication, so it should arrive soon."

    "I wonder if the Emperor will grant Vice Admiral Yu a proper recognition after reading the petition."

    "In addition, I''ve also included Xu Wencai''s contributions."

    After the pacification of Ming State.

    Those who returned alive from the Reserve Camp received extensive rewards.

    Since Xu Wencai had no Cultivation and was not even a military soldier, and only received some gold and silver, it was rather unfair; the old schr''s dream was to be granted a genuine Wolong Title.

    However, with Fang Qingyun''s outstanding reputation setting a precedent, such an equivalent title seemed difficult to obtain, but achieving a military or schrly Medal would be good too, one could only try one''s best.

    Moreover, there was noteworthy news from the Capital City, just before they went to war, there was a new top schr in the imperial examinations, his old acquaintance, Tang Yingke.

    Unexpectedly, that youngster really passed when he said he would take the exam; he truly had some ink in his belly.

    ...

    Capital City.

    Longevity Pce.

    All members of the Cab gathered here.

    "Joyous news!"

    "Since the war began with Dongqing Country, Marquis of Andong, Meng Quji, has rapidly captured thends of Eight Prefectures in just two months, now advancing deep into Lai State, with victories one after another, an unstoppable momentum."

    "In desperation, Dongqing Sect sent Prince Tang with a hundred thousand troops to station in Tongzhou."

    "If Prince Tang of Dongqing is defeated next, we could recapture the territories of Lai, Tong, and Ling states in one fell swoop, which includes the fertilends of two states and Ziwei Mountain." Explore more stories with My Virtual Library Empire

    "Excellent! Whatever Meng Quji needs, fulfill it, gather grain if hecks grain, allocate funds if he needs funds, as long as he retakes the three states, I shall promote him to State Duke!"

    Emperor Longqing was greatly pleased.

    After the discussions concluded, he changed the subject, "By the way, regarding Chen Sansi''s rewards, what suggestions do all my ministers have? Feel free to share, Yan Liang, Yan Maoxing, you father and son go first."

    "In reply to Your Majesty."

    Yan Liang, sitting on a small stool, leisurely responded, "Mr. Chen is too young, and his official rank is limited by his Martial Arts Realm, so Your Majesty''s grace can only be bestowed through a Medal.

    "Furthermore, after ferrying civilians across the river, Mr. Chen had already been conferred the third-rank title of Upper Guard, and now he has achieved such remarkable deeds in Ming State; theoretically, he should directly skip the second-rank, being directly appointed to the Standard Second Rank Upper Guard. Additionally, he already possesses the best Martial Arts Resources, so we can only reward him with some more gold and silver."

    "Your Majesty, I agree!"

    Yan Maoxing bowed deeply, "An eighteen-year-old Standard Second Rank Protector is extremely rare in our dynasty."

    The Minister of War, Gao Bo, concurred, "I second the motion."

    "Heh, too low,"

    Emperor Longqing interrupted, "I n to directly grant him the title of Standard First Rank Upper Pir Country, what do you think?"

    A murmur of astonishment.

    "Your Majesty, isn''t that a bit too high?"

    Yan Liang hesitated, "He is only eighteen and has only been serving in the army for just two years; isn''t this promotion too rapid?"

    "Yes, Your Majesty,"

    Gao Bo spoke solemnly, "If such heavy awards are granted at such a young age, he might be arrogant; perhaps start with Second Rank Protector, and then elevate to Upper Pir Country in three to five years."

    "I think nothing is inappropriate!"

    The Minister of Rites, the father of Tang Yingke, Tang Ran, spoke up, "General Chen crossed Hongze River four times, and his tactics are now included in the Military Family''s art of war; if not for his extraordinary achievements, the insurrection in Ming State wouldn''t have been quelled in such a short time!"

    "Mr. Tang, public matters are public, and personal matters are personal."

    The Minister of Revenue hinted something cryptically but did not borate.@@novelbin@@

    Back when Assigned Point happened, they had heard about it.

    It was said that Chen Sansi harshly killed Wen Qiushi to avenge Tang Ran''s son, Tang Yingke.

    But the asion was different, and many statements needed to be nuanced.

    Not like in Liangzhou with Governor Liu and others, who directly argued with Mr. Hou.

    "I am discussing public affairs!"

    Tang Ran firmly stated, "Your Majesty''s decision is extremely wise; Upper Pir Country is indeed appropriate."

    "Crown Prince~"

    Emperor Longqing drawled, "What do you think?"

    "Father''s imperial decision, why should your son interject?"

    The Crown Prince, sitting on a stool, expressed his agreement.

    Officials below continued discussing.

    "He is too young..."

    "Yes, even Sun Xiangzong at this time hadn''t made a ssh yet."

    "What if he achieves more in the future?"

    "Wouldn''t he be made an Earl by the age of twenty?"

    "..."

    ording to the merit system of the Great Sheng Dynasty, beyond the first-rank merit, the ranks ascended to superordinate ranks of Earl, Marquis, Duke, and Prince, each progressively scarcer, with only the Cao Family eligible to be princes. Currently, there were merely two or three State Dukes, Marquises were also scarce, Earls existed in some number, but they were veterans, hence a first-rank Upper Pir Country appeared very prominent, essentially at an equal status with many veteran old ministers.

    "Who lets My favorite general be only eighteen years old!"

    Emperor Longqing took out several golden pages from his wide-sleeved Taoist robe and raised them high for everyone to see. "Do you see what this is? Heavenly Book!"

    "Dong An did not hesitate to betray Me, betray the Great Sheng, and rebelled just to obtain the Miracle Soldiers Heavenly Book!"

    "But Chen Sansi, after obtaining it, showed no greed and immediately submitted it to the court, without any deceit or falsification."

    "Such a loyal and good minister, can he not bear a first-rank title of Upper Pir Country?"

    "I intend to show the people of the world, letting him set an example for the young talents across thend."

 Chapter 153 Wo Long Presents the Memorial, Killing Meridian Passage with One Arrow

    Chen Sansi noticed the annotation behind "Perfection".

    Breaking the limit by one rank.

    It seemed that it could still be improved.

    The direction of improvement would most likely be the uracy of the range and the speed of drawing and shooting the bow.

    Currently, it was unavoidable within 300 steps.

    That came to over four hundred meters, nearly a mile; this distance, at any rate, ought to be sufficient.

    He stored away the bow and arrows.

    In the afternoon, Chen Sansi patrolled the city, and upon returning home in the evening, he received the court''s approval carried back by the courier, endorsing Xu Wencai''s suggestion, but Yu Song''s matter was not even mentioned, totally ignored as if it were thin air.

    The contents didn''t seem like the Emperor had penned it himself; most likely, it was handled by the Cab or Ritual Supervision after their presentation.

    "..."

    "Is a que really that difficult?"

    Did one have to wait until he arrived in the capital and said it in person?

    Fortunately, Xu Wencai''s official position should have been secured, but the response was equally vague, without specifying what the rewards entailed.

    ...

    Military City.

    Barracks residential area.

    Within Liangzhou City, about half of the North City District was upied by soldiers'' families; the houses were no different from ordinary civilian residences, also divided ording to military ranks.

    But even the humblest of these dwellings was enough for a family of five to live in, albeit a bit cramped.

    In a T-shaped dwelling in North Street Alley.

    A few Po Yang brothers off duty hadid out food and drinks in the courtyard, drinking wine and ying dice.

    "I''ve got ahead, now I''m also a general."

    Feng Yong, with one foot on the stool, said, "A Secondary Fifth Rank General of Military Strategy."

    "I''m a General Wu Yi, a rank above you!"

    "The silver bestowed by the family is not small either, after a while I n to move out, not staying in this broken alley, get a properrge courtyard!"

    "My rewards were mainly Supplemental Medicine, I''m about to start Refining Internal too!"

    "Good, good, good, everyone has a bright future!"

    "It''s really all thanks to our leader."

    "Yes, if it weren''t for him leading us to victory, where would we be today, stuck in Po Yang County, that lousy ce, even if not dead, a promotion would have been out of reach for life!"

    "After the camp expands, we''ll definitely continue to rise."

    "Hey, Old Xu!"

    Zhu Tong looked at the schr eating peanuts: "Why haven''t I heard about your promotion, seems like they just gave you some silver?"

    "What''s the situation?"

    Zhao Kang put down his chopsticks: "Just because youck Cultivation and position, treating you as just an Array Soldier, seems a bit unfair, doesn''t it?"

    "Indeed."@@novelbin@@

    Feng Yong said, "I remember there were two times you covered the rear, both times you went with General Bai next door, almost didn''te back, it was dangerous, and after all you weremanding, why didn''t they also appoint you as an official?"

    "Hey~"

    Xu Wencai, slightly intoxicated, seemed carefree as he said, "Honestly, I don''t mind. As long as there''s a ce for my talents to shine, I won''t feel suffocated!"

    "Pretending, are we?!"

    Zhu Tong bluntly stated, "Ever since you came back from Ming State, you old fellow have been sneakily drinking alone. Did you think I didn''t notice?"

    Xu Wencai remained silent.

    Everyone fell silent.

    Initially, when Chen Sansi appointed him to manage everyone, many were displeased, but as time passed, they gradually epted him.

    Xu Wencai''s hard work was understated, but everyone firmly remembered it.

    From daily training, duty arrangements, prebat strategic deployment, to ration management,pensation for families of the deceased, and other logistical duties for around a thousand to two thousand people, he was primarily responsible for overarching nning and management.

    Since Chen Sansi was often too busy, these trivial matters naturally had to be managed by someone.

    And thus, all the burden naturally fell on Xu Wencai alone.

    In the military camp, they often got up in the middle of the night to relieve themselves and would see Xu Wencai dealing with official business.

    If this was to be rewarded with just some silver, it would have been rather unfair.

    "Everyone, don''t rush." Discover stories with My Virtual Library Empire

    Wang Zhi broke the silence, "Aren''t you all reassured by Sansi? He''s busy with his cultivation but still doesn''t forget to simmer medicinal drinks for you, and a few days ago, he even got you an exotic beast to feast on. How could he possibly forget Old Xu''s matters?"

    "Right, right, right."

    "Stick with the superior and do a good job."

    "That Wolong Title of yours is quite high, at the same level as the Main General of the Azure Dragon Camp, impossible to obtain at the moment, but a slightly lower official rank is definitely no problem!"

    "... "

    "It''s all but a false reputation!"

    Xu Wencai stubbornly said, "I, Xu Wencai, never care about such empty titles, having or not having an official position doesn''t matter, whether there are rewards or not doesn''t matter, all these are external matters. I focus solely on my duties, not aiming for... "

    "The imperial decree has arrived¡ª "

    A loud shoutmanded everyone''s utmost respect.

    Zhao Kang, covering his mouth, whispered softly, "The highest rank living nearby is just a Thousand Captain. How could the imperial decree be directed here; whose is it?"

    "Bang, bang, bang!"

    The old wooden door was knocked heavily.

    Voices urging from outside came through.

    "How bold! The imperial decree is here, what are you muttering about? Come out immediately to receive the decree!"

    "Ours?!"

    Everyone looked at each other, hastening to their feet.

    They went outside.

    In the middle of the alley, they saw an eunuch in a python robe, holding a golden-yellow imperial decree, followed by several sword-bearing guards.

    "Aren''t you kneeling down to receive the decree?!"

    "Rustle rustle rustle¡ª"

    Not knowing what had happened, everyone hastily knelt down to listen to the promation, even secretly observing each other, suspecting whether someone among them hadmitted a serious offense, leading to their entire families being executed.

    "Xu Wencai, receive the decree!"

    Mr. Hou slowly unfolded the imperial decree and read clearly, "The Emperor orders, under the mandate of Heaven: Xu Wencai of the Reserve Camp, proficient in astronomy and geography, understanding of heavenly phenomena, skilled in military tactics, demonstrated bravery by repeatedly confronting the enemies during the pacification of Ming State, achieving indelible merits in the Four Crossings of Hongze and the conquest of Meishan Prefecture. We greatly appreciate and have decided to entrust a significant responsibility. Hence, we specially award the civil and military position, promote Xu Wencai to be the Standard Third Rank Commander of You State Commanding Department, additionally appoint as the Middle Zizhi Yin of Standard Third Rank, also bestowing the title ''Mr. Wo Long,'' andmand Xu Wencai to depart to You State to assist Commander Du Shiguang in suppressing the rebellion. He shall start the journey within ten days. By Ourmand!"

 Chapter 155 Winning Without a Fight

    Crown Prince?

    Beside the Emperor.

    The only support from the Cao Family that Chen Sansi could think of was the Crown Prince.

    In his younger years, Emperor Longqing had many princes, like Prince Zhen Nan who was a Martial Saint but obsessed with martial arts. To avoid getting involved in the whirlpool of court politics, he voluntarily asked to be stationed on the frontier.

    The other princes, such as the Fourth Prince, the Eighth Prince, and others...

    also held power within the court.

    But since the Incense God Sect approached Cao Fan, their intent was clear.

    There was also Pei Tiannan, who seemed to belong to the Crown Prince''s faction.

    The Crown Prince had been acting as a regent for forty years.

    During these forty years, Emperor Longqing often went into seclusion, sometimes for up to half a year. The Crown Prince''s influence had already spread far and wide across Dasheng, and it was feared that he controlled half the apparent military strength.

    Explore more stories at My Virtual Library Empire

    It was said that since ten days after Yunzhou, the old Emperor had rarely gone into seclusion and seemed determined to rejuvenate the country, causing many officials in the court to be transferred.

    Moreover, Pei Tiannan had not received any transfer orders but had secretly followed, a Martial Saint sneaking away from his post, which was hard not to associate with ulterior motives.

    However, the intelligence provided by Seeking Immortal Tower clearly indicated that the Incense Fire Divine Sect was making moves in the capital city. What were they doing heading to the east?

    Chen Sansi didn''t continue to specte blindly. After practicing his spear techniques, he returned to his private cabin, locked the door, and took out the Xuanzhu. He sensed briefly that the incense power he had gathered this time was substantial but still not enough to cultivate to a small achievement. It could at most bring his proficiency to half. The power of ordinary people was truly too weak, not to mention that like leeks, the Incense God Sect was always harvesting rather than umting.

    Regardless, it was still a good deed done.

    The Dragon King Temple was burned down, the sacrifices temporarily halted, and he had exposed the Incense God Sect to the world under the alias of Zhang Lai. They certainly would not dare to openly ughter living people for sacrifices in Linjiang Prefecture now.

    Speaking of which.

    The usefulness of the Disguise Technique was indeed significant.

    In the future, as long as he could ensure his safe retreat, even using spells was not a big deal. After all, they could only look for Zhang Lai, not trace it back to him, Chen Sansi.

    Besides, not only had the amount of incense inside the Xuanzhu increased, the White Xuan Qi had also visibly increased, the principle of which he still didn''t understand.

    "What exactly is this energy, and how can it be collected?"

    "It would be great if it could be used in this Eastern Expedition."

    ...

    Cabin.

    Cao Fan quickly recognized the two people who barged into the room, dressed in coarse linen: "You two, aren''t you the newly arrived monks from Ci Yun Temple?"

    "Your Highness, do not be rmed,"

    Pei Tiannan said amiably, "One of us, one of us."

    "One of us?"

    Cao Fan frowned, "Nonsense! Ci Yun Temple is suspected of colluding with the Witch God Sect. Yin Hanwen might have been killed by them!"

    "Your Highness, it''s a misunderstanding,"

    Yun Xiaozi exined, "Qiu Mingzi, the two of them, were indeed traitors within our ranks and did indeed have ties with the Witch God Sect. They deserved their deaths, but we, the Incense Fire Divine Sect, are staunch allies of Your Highness."

    "Allies?"

    Initially confused, Cao Fan soon understood, "Are you implying, my father?! Eunuch Feng, did you already know about this?"

    Eunuch Feng and the others kept silent, seemingly affirming by default.

    "Incense Fire Divine Sect, Father..."

    Cao Fan sorted through his thoughts, had suspicions, but did not dare to believe. His face showed alternating expressions of realization, and after a long time, he finally said in a grave tone, "I, understand now."

    ...

    In the blink of an eye, another year-end approached.

    Dasheng''s climate in the southeast was rtively warm, and even in the winter, it was not exceedingly cold.

    Chen Sansi stood on the deck, looking toward the rising red sun in the east and exhaled a murky breath.

    [Cultivation Technique: National Guardian Dragon Spear, Meridian Passage (entry-level)]

    [Progress: 418/500]

    Mastering the Meridian Passage was not far off.

    Time really flies fast.

    He still remembered when he was in Po Yang County, worrying about beginning Bone Training, yet now he had already mastered Meridian Passage. Advancing further into the Profound Image Realm, he would truly be one of the top figures in martial arts, capable of standing his ground alone.

    Not just him.

    In these two months.

    Five of his subordinates had achieved Refining Internal, and three of them were promising neers, specifically Wu Da, Zhuang Yi, and Wang Li. On the battlefield, they could finally ensure their own safety with their strengths.

    The proficiency in Medical Skill had also seen a significant increase.

    [Skill: Medical Skill. Mortal (small achievement)]

    [Progress: 782/2000]

    Merely at a small achievement, he could reach the level of an Alchemy Master. The effects would definitely be better after achieving great sess.

    "We''re almost there!"

    The military officer in charge of steering said, "In no more than two hours, we shall enter the dock of Tongnan Prefecture, everyone please prepare in advance."

    Tongnan Prefecture, located on the boundary of the Eastern Territory, was not currently at the front line.

    Because the front had moved to Lai State.

    Tongnan Prefecture served as a restocking granary and was also the training ground where Chen Sansi was to receive three thousand soldiers of the Xuanjia Army.

    "Xu Wen, the map!"

    Chen Sansi instinctively called out. After nobody responded, he realized btedly that the old schr had long been away from his side.

    "Sire! The map!"

    Bai Thingzhi appeared at his call: "Sire, let me help you strategize!"

    "You?"

    Chen Sansi declined, "We''re almost at our destination, better get ready to disembark."

    Throughout this journey.

    He hadn''t found another chance to steal incense.

    Every time Yun Xiaozi and hispanion disembarked, Pei Tiannan would also follow, almost confirming that the Incense God Sect''s backer was indeed the Crown Prince.@@novelbin@@

    Unexpectedly, while Emperor Longqing cultivated Immortal Law, his son was also secretly involved in the Incense Fire Divine Dao, and there was a ny percent chance he was personally cultivating it, though how far he had advanced was unknown.

    One colluded with the Witch God Sect to massacre a city.

 Chapter 156 The Art of War is a Matter of Momentum

    Chen Sansi led the troops away, and after another fifty li, stopped at a crossroads on an official road in the wilderness.

    "Xu..."

    It slipped out so naturally that he found it hard to correct himself: "Bring me the map."

    "Who has a map? Quickly!"

    Zhao Kang and the others searched but there was no sound for a long time.

    "My lord, I have one."

    Xia Cong was well-prepared; he presented the map immediately, respectfully unfolding it in front of Chen Sansi: "I have some humble thoughts, I wonder if I should speak?"

    On the journey, he could tell the general wanted to call out for Mr. Wo Long, the esteemed Xu, showing that the generalcked a right-hand man. He was ready to step in, hoping to learn more by the general''s side in the future, and be a trusted lineage.

    Chen Sansi looked at the map, without raising his head, he responded: "Speak freely."

    "Thank you, my lord!"

    Xia Cong bowed deeply: "I believe that even if we release the surrendered soldiers, direct persuasion will still be ineffective. We must use force before virtue, take down a city first, and then lead by action."

    "Hm, the thought process is not wrong."

    Chen Sansi nced at him: "Continue."

    Encouraged, Xia Cong eagerly shared the analysis he had prepared in his mind: "Inside Zhao Tong Prefecture, there are still eight thousand soldiers defending, among them two thousand are local garrison troops and six thousand from Elite Camp Soldiers called from other ces. With the help of the civilians, a direct assault on Zhaotong is definitely not feasible."

    "Therefore, I believe we should first attack Songlin Prefecture, which is closer to Zhaotong. The enemy''s defense there is not strong, they''ve already been under siege for a long time. If we add three thousand of the Xuanjia Army tounch a fierce attack, there is a significant chance of taking it by force. Once Songlin Prefecture falls, it will naturally shake the morale in Zhao Tong Prefecture, then we can persuade them to surrender."

    "No, it''s nowhere near enough."

    Chen Sansi rejected the idea: "Not to mention how great a cost that would be, time is not something we can afford to waste, moreover, do you know why we must capture Zhao Tong Prefecture within two months?"

    "Besides the need for more troops to concentrate on attacking Yong Yue Prefecture, I think..." Enjoy exclusive adventures from My Virtual Library Empire

    Xia Cong felt like he was taking an exam, answering seriously: "In two months, reinforcements from Qing Country could likely arrive, conservatively estimated at over fifty thousand. The best ce to stop them would be twenty li outside Green Ridge Mountain, but that requires bypassing Zhaotong. If Zhaotong is not captured, it means leaving a knife behind on our nk, ready to strike at any moment."

    "If you put it that way..."

    "Our situation seems not as optimistic as we thought!"

    His expression grew grave, "If the Qing Country reinforcements reach outside Green Ridge Mountain and we can''t deploy enough soldiers to stop them, it means we may have to give up the attack on Yong Yue Prefecture and choose another city to defend."

    "In such a scenario, the situation would shift from the Great Sheng Dynasty besieging the enemy to a stalemate between the two forces."

    "The deadlocked situation that Qing Country has in Lai State could alle back to life."

    "And if we add the reinforcements from Nan Xu Country that might appear outside Hu Lao at any time..."

    "All of the Great Sheng Dynasty''s efforts in Lai State could be wasted, reiming the territory of the three states could be a pipe dream."

    To the side.

    The other two Thousand Captains of the Xuanjia Army, Xiao Zheng, and You Jike, also listened with serious expressions.

    "You few are still clear-headed."

    Chen Sansi continued: "So, what we have to do is race against time, time is the essence of opportunity, the faster we deal with the soldiers and horses in each city, and gather the dispersed forces of our Great Sheng Dynasty, the better prepared we will be to face the uing changes."

    "The fastest way to capture a city is to make the Enemy Army open its gates and surrender. If fighting breaks out, even with the smallest city, it will cost us a lot of time and troops. On a front of nearly a thousand li with so many cities, we simply cannot afford the umted time."

    "One Songlin is not enough, one Zhaotong is not enough."

    "What I want, aside from Yong Yue Prefecture, is for all thirty-six prefectures within the territory of Lai State to surrender at the sight of my forces!"

    All thirty-six prefectures surrendering at the sight!@@novelbin@@

    Xia Cong and the others exchanged looks, seemingly finding it hard to believe.

    Moreover, on the military order.

    They were only required to deal with Zhaotong Prefecture; was it really necessary to go this far?

    Xiao Zheng expressed his doubt: "My lord, if I may be bold, isn''t the difficulty a bit too great?"

    "Yes, my lord, it''s not that I doubt you, just..."

    You Jike added: "Persuading one or two key cities to surrender is already an exceedingly difficult task, let alone convincing all thirty-six prefectures. It''s almost... impossible, isn''t it?"

    "Hmph! Making a fuss over nothing!"

    Zhu Tong scornfully said: "Even I understand, do this first, then that, and it''ll work out!"

    "Old Zhu, stop causing trouble."

    Zhuang Yi pulled him aside: "Just listen to the general''s speech, and you know nothing!"

    But the brothers from Po Yang were unfazed, as they had no doubt their general could achieve the strategic goals he had dered.

    "You Jike, there''s one thing you got wrong."

    Chen Sansi''s gaze remained fixed on the map: "Sometimes, the difficulty of persuading many cities in a state to submit is far less than persuading just one or two cities; this is called momentum."

    "Some say that in war, deceit is key, others say authority is key, and still others say that the most important thing is to ensure a stable position for oneself, awaiting the enemy''s defeat. But I say¡ª"

    He paused for emphasis, each word he spoke ringing out like a deep ringing bell: "In war, momentum is everything!"

 Chapter 157 Thousands of Armies Avoid the White Robe

    "My lord!"

    Xia Cong rode back: "They have not surrendered and wish to see you."

    "Is it worth wasting words with them? A mere county need not trouble you, my lord. Just give memand of over thirty riders and I can handle it. Kill a few people and they''ll naturally submit."@@novelbin@@

    Xiao Zheng sought approval: "My lord, give the order!"

    "There shall be no bloodshed."

    Chen Sansi rejected the idea: "If they wish to see me, then let them."

    He spoke, removed his armour and helmet, handed his weapon to Zhao Kang for safekeeping, and rode off alone on the White Swan Horse, breaking away from the military formation and heading straight toward the city gates.

    Xiao Zheng voiced his concern: "Is my lord really going alone?"

    "There''s no need to worry about that."

    Xia Cong nted his long spear into the ground: "The strongest in the city is merely at the Bone Forger Realm. With my lord''s Martial Arts expertise, if he really wanted to take it down, he could do so by himself. But what''s the use of taking a tiny Meizi County? Even after its surrender, what role could it possibly y? What exactly is my lord nning? What does ''building up strength to strike'' mean?"

    He thought thetter half without saying it aloud.

    Atop the walls of Meizi County.

    Wang Feng and the others, after Xia Cong''s departure, were unsettled, unsure what they would face next. There was a real chance the three thousand iron hooves would charge and tten the city.

    "Do you think Chen Sansi wille see us?"

    "He should... "

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    "You never know."

    "They say he''s fierce in battle, and since we are the enemy, it''s possible he coulde in rage and ughter us."

    "..."

    The transmission of any news takes time. The story of leading civilians across the river spread among themon folk, far slower than the tale of the Four Crossings of Hongze, reaching Xinghua Prefecture area about half a year ago.

    The past two months have been the most intense.

    Storytellers speak daily of the White Horse and long spear, a solo rider breaking through fifteen hundred armours, of entering the fray seven times just to save a dead brother''s family.

    He was the hottest and most famous character in local operas.

    Some people even heard this tale in the teahouse in the morning, only to be told in the afternoon ¨C Chen Sansi ising, urging us to surrender quickly!

    It all felt so ethereal and dream-like, almost unreal.

    "Here hees, isn''t that him!"

    "Quick, look!"

    The people on the city walls shouted, pointing below.

    The setting sun bathed the sky in red.

    A white horse, a man in a white robe.

    Chen Sansi, riding Qian Xun alone, approached the formation without a weapon in hand, not even wearing armour, but instead dressed in a white robe personally sewn by Sister Lan, intending to present a subdued and friendly appearance.

    He held the horse''s reins, calling out at a measured pace, "People of Meizi County, do you wish to see me?"

    The crowd questioned, "Are you Chen Sansi?"

    Chen Sansi replied, "I have not changed my name nor my surname; I am indeed Chen Sansi!"

    Amidst the city wall, a buzz of discussion erupted.

    "What do you think?"

    "Is it really him?"

    "Riding a white horse, looking dignified, just like the storyteller described, it must be him!"

    "Right, they wouldn''t impersonate one of their own!"

    "..."

    "General Chen!"

    Wang Feng called out, changing his address: "You said earlier that if we open the gates and surrender, you guarantee no one will be harmed, is that true?"

    "It is indeed."

    Chen Sansi controlled his Qi-Blood. Although he made no effort to shout loudly, simply speaking calmly from horseback, his words were heard clearly by everyone on the wall.

    "Gentlemen!"

    "What my subordinates said earlier, it''s all true!"

    He looked at the hesitant crowd, continuing, "I know what you''re worried about, but truly, there is no need to see me as an enemy or a member of an alien race.

    "Because thend of Lai State has always belonged to Great Dasheng!

    "In other words, your ancestors were once subjects of the Great Sheng Dynasty!

    "Now, it''s merely a return to Dasheng, so why resort to the carnage of war?"

    With this speech, he managed to dissolve most of the worries of the people on the wall with uncanny precision.

    Indeed!

    Lai State has always belonged to the Sheng Dynasty.

    By this reasoning, even after surrendering, they wouldn''t be treated as second or third ss citizens like when the barbarians invaded the Heavenly Capital; they could continue living their lives. After all, who is the Emperor for those at the bottom of society; what difference does it make?

    "What do you think?"

    Wang Feng asked with a gulp, "Du Baozong, should we surrender?"

    "Let''s surrender..."

    Though Du Baozong wanted to say no, he was very aware that the walls of Meizi County could practically be knocked down with a kick. Moreover, with the urgency of the situation, there hadn''t been enough time to mobilize many civilians to defend the city, and no preparations for siege defense had been made in advance.

    If a battle were to ensue.

    A single charge would likely burst the gates open.

    Whether they surrendered or not, what difference would it make?

    "We can''t surrender, we mustn''t surrender¡ª"

    A green-robed official scrambled onto the city wall, turning out to be the parental official of Meizi County, County Magistrate Li, who breathlessly eximed, "Inspector Wang, we mustn''t surrender!"

    "Sir, is it our choice to surrender?"

    Wang Feng pointed outside: "Against the three thousand Xuanjia Army, even if we wanted to block them, we couldn''t!"

    "Even then, no surrendering is allowed!"

    County Magistrate Li drew a soldier''s saber, pointing it fiercely at them, and shouted, "Whoever dares to open the gates and surrender is a traitor, and I have the authority to behead them! Listen to my order, everyone fight to the death!"

 Chapter 158 Besieged on All Sides [Thanks to "Jia Ling" the Alliance Master]

    "What did you say?"

    General Fan snatched the letter and as he read, his pupils visibly shook, "True, truly surrendered? They didn''t even put up any resistance?"

    "None!"

    The subordinate spoke firmly, "The brothers at the front all saw it with their own eyes. The Xuanjia Army only needed to stand outside the city gates with the General''s Banner for a while, and the city would open on its own!"

    "Good, good..."

    Meng Quji was relieved that he had heeded advice and hadn''t rashly ordered the troops to be called back.

    He looked toward the silent green-robed schr at his side, "General Fang, you must tell everyone, how did you do it?"

    "..."

    Fang Qingyun silently stared at the sand table, motionless like a rooted tree, for a long time.

    "General Fang?"

    Zhan Taoming cautiously interrupted, "What is this?"

    "I got it."

    After a long while, Fang Qingyun suddenly spoke up, his voice clear and filled with surprise, akin to a seasoned mathematician finally solving a puzzle or a master craftsman discovering the method to unlock aplex contraption.

    "I know how Vice General Chen did it."

    "Oh?"

    Meng Quji couldn''t wait, "Tell us, let''s hear it!"

    "Commander Meng."

    Fang Qingyun asked with a smile, "I''m asking you, what is your path?"

    "My path? You mean my proficiency in military tactics, right?"

    Meng Quji promptly replied, "Then my path, naturally, is the path of invincibility. For all great military families, one must first ensure an invincible position for oneself, to await the enemy''s defeat."

    Fang Qingyun turned to the next person, "And you, General Fan?"@@novelbin@@

    "Me?"

    General Fan proudly imed, "What I believe in is the king''s way, the way of the king being to follow the Heavenly Son''s mandate, to dispatch a righteous army. Wherever it goes, it is aided by heaven and is bound to be unstoppable, winning the hearts of thend."

    "I''m not worthy to discuss paths."

    Zhan Taoming said candidly, "I am a deputy under Commander Meng. If I had to speak of a path, my preference in everyday matters is the dominating path most favored by General Ji. Of course,pared to General Ji, I''m merely a poor imitation."

    "General Ji is the true embodiment of military dominance. Wherever he goes, the enemy trembles with fear, and once he seizes the advantage, there''s no stopping him. The enemy is sure to be routed!"

    "Ming State was just like this! Zhong Wuxin is a Martial Saint as well, and what became of him? His army of eighty thousand, under General Ji''s pursuit, ended up with only a little over ten thousand returning alive. I heard many were so frightened they were paralyzed with fear, some even died on the spot from terror."

    "General Ji is indeed a role model for our generation!"

    The court had intended to arrange it this way. As the deputy general alongside Meng Quji, one steady and the other dominant, the goal was to create aplementary effect in critical moments, achieving unexpected results.

    "To tell you the truth, our understanding of military tactics is not as profound as yours, General Fang."

    Meng Qujimented, "Our respective ''paths,'' whether they be the king''s way, the dominating way, or even the stable way, are all about finding the methods that suit us in the Military Books and then expanding on them. But you, General Fang, you are the founder of ''Deceit,'' a true master of the ''path,'' and you will certainly be enshrined in the Martial Temple one day."

    Fang Qingyun did not show modesty or boastfulness, but at this moment, he changed his approach: "Do you gentlemen know which ''path'' General Chen''s military tactics follow?"

    "That..."

    Meng Quji stroked his short beard and soon dered, "Deceit!"

    "I think the same."

    Zhan Taoming agreed, "Now it seems, without a doubt, that General Chen''s path is Deceit! Actually, I have carefully reviewed Vice General Chen''s battle records. Back in Po Yang, when a mere thousand remaining troops crushed a twenty-thousand-strong barbarian army, he used strategies like feigning attacks and striking from unexpected angles, fitting with Deceit."

    "Yes."

    Even General Fan agreed, "The Four Crossings of Hongze River, moving around within the small territory of Ming State, and then, without running away, directly striking at Meishan Prefecture, isn''t it all just like what General Fang originally wrote, ''The military, too, is based on deceit''? Truly worthy of being General Fang''s junior, he might surpass you in Deceit."

    Fang Qingyun just smiled and said nothing.

    "Oh?"

    Meng Quji became interested, "General Fang, don''t hold back, is it another ''path,'' perhaps Benevolence, Madness, or even the rare Art of Crossing?"

    "None of them."

    Fang Qingyun shook his head, "You are misunderstanding. If you look at Vice General Chen''s records, at first, there certainly are elements of Deceit, but if you look further, you''ll know it''s not merely Deceit."

    "I don''t know who he learned his military tactics from, but it definitely wasn''t me."

    "And now, at this point."

    "No matter who he learned from before, or how many people he learned from, it has all merged thoroughly, transformed into his own ''path.''"

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    "His own ''path''?"

    Meng Quji discerned the underlying meaning, "General Fang, are you suggesting..."

    "Exactly!"

    Fang Qingyun waved his sleeve and announced loudly, "Gentlemen, prepare yourselves. Before long, the Eight Volumes of Military will be the Nine Volumes of Military, a path that belongs solely to Vice General Chen, a path that has always been there, yet it is also apletely new ''path''!"

    "This path''s name is¡ªMomentum!"

    "The military is about momentum!"

    ...

    Changting Prefecture.

    "General!"

    "All our brothers in the north have surrendered!"

    "There''s no more food in the city!"

    "Let''s surrender too!"

    "Surrender? We still have four thousand brothers, and you tell me to surrender?!"

    "General! General Chen is only giving us three hours to consider! It doesn''t bother you, you''re camp soldiers transferred from elsewhere, even if the city falls you''re just losing your own life, eighteen yearster you''ll be a man again! But we are the local garrison, our wives and children are inside the city, if we continue to resist, once the city breaks, they will suffer the consequences!"

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