—
Never would have Feng Ming thought that Zhao Lu was the clingy sort. Zhao Lu always seemed indifferent and his conduct was also cold. Yet, these past two days, Zhao Lu often came just to see Feng Ming.
Feng Ming understood maybe it was because Zhao Lu felt the pressure of his imminent departure to the battlefields. After all, if given a choice, Feng Ming himself also didn’t want Zhao Lu to go. But in this entire Feng country, there was no one else Feng Ming could put his trust entirely other than Zhao Lu.
Even though Zhao Lu was being unexpectedly clingy, he still didn’t talk very much and didn’t show any of his feelings. He was still cold as he was before, so Feng Ming didn’t think too much about it. Only Zhao Lu himself knew clearly the reason behind his restlessness : Feng and Xue countries had always been leading up to war, and now the day of the final battle would finally arrive.
As Feng Ming and his ministers were discussing strategies for sending troops, everyone asked the Prime Minister’s opinion.
Luo Shichen said, “This servant is only an ignorant scholar, only ever know a life in peace and security. Regarding war and soldiers, this servant seeks to learn from Marquis Zhulu.”
Zhao Lu was looking down, pretending to be absorbed in the map on the table. Internally, he was struggling; every word he was about to say gave him great pains.
Because the steps that he’d taken all of his life, every one of them was meticulously designed to deceive Feng Ming and to eventually bring victory for Xue Junliang.
Zhao Lu said, “Xue Country’s army is very well trained and strong, moreover, now that Xue Wang had conquered Teng Country’s army, they should not be taken lightly. On the surface, it does seem like we are at a disadvantageous position… But remember, Teng Country was conquered and Teng Wang is now in prison, people’s hearts might not be quite harmonious. Taking advantage of this, maybe we can start by attacking Teng Country’s territory, breaking through their weak borders and occupying their land. After that, we can turn to attack Xue Country from two sides.”
Everyone nodded in agreement to Zhao Lu’s suggestions. Lu Shichen said, “It is indeed a good strategy, but Teng Country is quite far, I’m afraid our army would be too exhausted after the journey and not be able to easily conquer Teng Country’s lands.”
Zhao Lu said, “The situation in Teng Country is not yet peaceful and secure. We can send some people to spread rumors among Teng people, say that Xue Wang is aiming to kill Marquis Tengnan. Remember that Teng people had killed Xue Wang’s Empress, therefore Xue Wang wants to eliminate the whole Teng Country as revenge. This way, Teng people will be too afraid and anxious, and have no heart to go to war. We can send ten thousand soldiers as pioneer to raid Teng Country’s military power and resources, paving the way for us.”
Everyone once again nodded in agreement to Zhao Lu’s suggestion, it was indeed a very good one. Feng Ming also agreed. If they occupied Teng Country’s lands first, Feng Country’s soldiers wouldn’t have to worry about food and water, wouldn’t have to set up a new camp either. Besides, if Feng Country could attack from two sides, it would be too difficult for Xue Junliang to defend his territory.
Lu Shichen said, “The plan is excellent, but I’m afraid Xue Wang will send troops to intercept Marquis Zhulu’s journey. It could break our formation and reduce our army’s strength.”
Feng Ming said, “Then send a selected group of soldiers to create a false trail by attacking Xue Country’s borders. This will distract Xue Junliang enough so Marquis Zhulu can safely arrive at Teng Country.”
Zhao Lu nodded, while inwardly sighed in regret. Feng Ming really trusted him, even made plans to help him and protect him from dangers.
Feng Ming and his subordinates discussed strategies until the sky turned dark. Just before the Palace gates were closed, the ministers were all dismissed, leaving only Zhao Lu who stayed in the Palace.
Although many poeple thought that Zhao Lu had rose to his current position by climbing into the king’s bed, but they still had to admit Zhao Lu was very knowledgeable regarding military and war matters.
Because he was going to war tomorrow, Zhao Lu was exceptionally rough with Feng Ming. Feng Ming was a soldier, was once a military general, therefore he was not weak. But after going at it for many rounds with Zhao Lu, he was utterly exhausted.
Feng Ming had always been helpless when it came to Zhao Lu, even an innocent person like Lu Shichen could see it. On one occasion, Feng Ming was having a discussion with Lu Shichen about the accident at Ming River. The two was so deep into the discussion that they almost forgot about Zhao Lu who was also present. Zhao Lu himself didn’t know what came over him when he suddenly stepped forward and kissed Feng Ming right in front of Lu Shichen.
Realizing that Zhao Lu might be jealous, Feng Ming was quite happy, but he also felt uncomfortable in showing intimacy in front of Lu Shichen.
Lu Shichen the innocent scholar was not used to seeing such display. His face turned bright red and he immediately averted his eyesight. In the end he excused himself, all the while not daring lifting his eyes to look at the other two.
The next day, it was almost noon when Feng Ming finally woke up. Rui Xue who had been anxiously waiting for him, quickly came over and helped Feng Ming wash and get dressed.
Feng Ming felt sore all over his body. Although he was used to the pain, but he was not a god. He had to move slowly and gingerly.
“Where is your Master?”
Rui Xue hesitated before answering weakly, “Master said there was no use delaying things, so he already led his troops to start their journey very early this morning.”
Feng Ming smiled after some moment of silence and said, “What’s wrong? Are you worried for your master? I’m not even worried but you looked like you’ve been crying.”
Rui Xue wiped her tears, “This servant.. Is just worried about you, Your Majesty.”
Feng Ming said, “Well, don’t be. I completely believe your master will come back to me safely. Zhao Lu has never lost in any battle.”
This sentence only made Rui Xue even sadder. She started crying in earnest, her tears falling down uncontrollably.
Rui Xue was still young, realizing she might have never seen war and was quite distressed for her master, Feng Ming offered a few words to comfort her before allowing her to go home early and take the rest of the day off.
But what Feng Ming didn’t know was that Rui Xue wasn’t crying about the war. She knew that this time with Zhao Lu gone, he was gone for good and would never come back to Feng.
This morning, before his departure, Zhao Lu stayed for a long time by Feng Wang’s side, tenderly caressing Feng Wang’s hair. He reminded Rui Xue to take good care of Feng Ming. Feng Ming had no one else around him he could trust, therefore Rui Xue must give him company.
After donning his armor, Zhao Lu immediately left. He threw one long glance at the Palace behind him before ordering army to start their march. The ten thousand soldiers, with their high banner signed ‘Marquis Zhulu’ left for Teng Country.
—
When Teng Yun led the soldiers to Teng Country, he heard rumors that Xue Junliang was going to kill Marquis Tengnan. He was afraid the people, upon hearing the rumor, would grow restless and start an uproar, especially considering Teng Country had just been conquered by Xue Junliang. Fortunately, Teng Yun’s arrival could curb their anxiety.
The local Teng officials were still wary of Xue Wang. They didn’t want to give money to fund the repairing project, but they were willing to lend their hands.
The three He brothers were still suspicious of Teng Yun, and still frequently threatened to kill him. Initially they would rather break their hands than helping a prisoner like Teng Ying, build temples. Teng Yun didn’t force them. He only rolled his sleeves and worked together with the soldiers.
Seeing this, although the three He brothers still hate Teng Yun, at least they no longer said malicious things.
Many Teng Country’s wealthy merchants heard about the project of repairing the temple, came from all over the country to donate money. Refugees who sought shelters at the temple and the local residents had no money they could donate, so they voluntarily enlisted in the army as soldiers. In only a few days, Teng Yun had gained twenty thousand new soldiers.
For most of his life, Teng Yun had been in battles away from his home country. But he was still aware which officials were corrupt and which were not.
Teng Yun brought the three He brothers for a formal visit to these corrupt officials and dragged their sons to train as soldiers. These arrogant officials of course didn’t want the heirs of their families go and become soldiers, so Teng Yun made them choose between donating money for the project or giving away their sons to the army.
Officials who didn’t have sons were ordered to be arrested. Teng Yun reasoned that if these corrupt officials were left to do as they please, they and their heirs would endanger the people’s well-being.
The corrupt officials were all most afraid of death, so they could only giving away their money to Teng Yun.
What Teng Yun wanted was exactly this result. He had intentionally brought with him the three He brothers. The corrupt officials would not be able to refuse because they wouldn’t dare fight against the brothers.
Soon, this matter passed to Xue Junliang’s ears. Several of his officials had raise a report that the prisoner, Teng Ying, had accepted bribes and robbed people off their money, which then only made Teng people unhappy.
Just after Xue Junliang read the court officials’ report, He Zhong came to report. He was sent by Teng Yun to bring the accounting books to Xue Wang. The books stated that in the matter of only three days, the number of soldiers had grown to thirty thousand. They also had gained a large number of money in the form of silver and gold, which could be used to cover military costs.
Xue Junliang asked He Zhong, “Has the prisoner, Teng Ying received any bribes?”
He Zhong scratched his head and said, “The money we collected were all handled by us three, he never once touched any of it.”
Xue Junliang nodded and said nothing. He thought since Teng Ying had said he had a way to gain Teng people’s heart, then he really had a way. There was no need for Xue Junliang to do anything.
A spy reported to Teng Yun that Marquis Zhulu of Feng and his ten thousand army were all heading to Teng. Teng Yun had recruited thirty thousand army. Teng Country did not lack in grains and provisions, and the army’s fund was sufficient. Teng Yun was not worried about logistics.
But these thirty thousand soldiers were all new-recruits and had not receive deep training. If they had to go to war, the odds were not in their side.
Teng Yun ordered the soldiers to dig pits and install traps. He also sent groups of soldiers on boats to the Zhi River to intercept Marquis Zhulu’s soldiers.
Many of Zhao Lu’s front line soldiers fell down the pits and were immediately killed by Teng Yun’s soldiers who were waiting for them hidden from view. Although Zhao Lu’s soldiers were more well-trained, they still panic over the traps. The commanders ordered the soldiers to avoid areas with the traps and turn their horses around to retreat.
Teng Yun didn’t order the soldiers to chase the retreating enemy. He opted for making a camp near the Zhi River.
Three He brothers were excited to fight and wanted to attack the enemy head on. Teng Yun allowed the three to raid the enemy’s camp in the middle of the night, to create riot and prevent Zhao Lu build a secure camp.
The three He brothers led a group of horse riders and launch a series of sneak attacks to the enemy camp’s three sides, but they were not ordered to kill. They would just turned around as soon as they saw the enemy’s soldiers.
The enemy soldiers, seeing only a small group coming, started to give chase. As a result, they were led into the area with the traps and fell down the pits.
He Zhong was too busy laughing at the enemy’s stupidity and forgot to watch his steps. He fell down into one of the pits and his horse broke its leg. At this time, Zhao Lu led his soldiers to catch up with the He brothers. Afraid Zhao Lu was going to kill He Zhong, He Yi and He Ren turned their horses to intercept Zhao Lu while ordering the other soldiers to help He Zhong.
Zhao Lu was very skilled, not easily tricked or defeated. The two He brothers had to fight Zhao Lu with all their might.
Teng Yun waited but the three He brothers still hadn’t returned. He sent people to find out what had happened. The spy returned to report that the three generals were intercepted near Zhi River by Marquis Zhulu, and were now fighting with the Marquis.
Teng Yun knew the situation wasn’t good for the three brothers. He ordered the soldiers to make fires and scream cries of war to create situation resembling that of an actual war. He then brought thirty soldiers to the river to save the three He brothers.
When Teng Yun arrived, He Zhong had just climbed out of the pit and was rushing to fight with Zhao Lu. Teng Yun ordered his people to circle Zhao Lu, but he didn’t want to fight for too long in case more of Feng Country’s soldiers came, which then the situation would only turn for worse.
Teng Yun and his soldiers deliberately made a few weak points in their encirclement, counting on Zhao Lu to take advantage of these flaws to break free and run back to his army camp. Not wanting Zhao Lu to retaliate by bringing more soldiers, Teng Yun led his people to return to their own camp.
The capital city was soon made aware of the fight with Zhao Lu. Xue Junliang passed the report to Xue Houyang who was surprised when he read it.
“But… I don’t understand. If Teng Ying was this smart, why would he help Teng Qianyi set fire to Yunfeng Palace?”
Xue Junliang shook his head, “I don’t understand either.”
Xue Houyang suddenly remebered, “Your Majesty, Zhao Lu is leading soldiers to invade our territory. Although Teng Ying unexpectedly could hold Zhao Lu back, this is not going to work long-term. Sooner or later Zhao Lu would find out that Teng Ying’s soldiers are all new recruits. By then, Zhao Lu would naturally attack. The situation in Teng is still tense, I think it’s better if we send troops there to defend the territory, this way people’s hearts can feel more secure.”
Xue Junliang laughed while shaking his head, “Just you wait, Zhao Lu will surrender to us.”
Xue Houyang was unsure, but Xue Junliang didn’t elaborate, so Xue Houyang didn’t dare asking more questions.
—
Although Teng Country did not lack money, Teng Yun feared the time was not enough to train the soldiers. With him stationed just south of Zhi River, he could only count on the river as the only fortress dividing them from Zhao Lu who was on the north side. Right now, Zhao Lu hadn’t sent any more attacks, but Teng Yun was till worried for his soldiers’ situation.
Teng Yun sat on a small boat overlooking across the river and was contemplating what to do when he heard someone singing. A small boat was passing by, its sail was spread wide to catch the wind. The boat was slowly coming near Teng Yun’s.
The one rowing the boat looked like a beggar wearing a broken pot on top of his head. The beggar was rowing with a bamboo pole while chanting some song. As the beggar’s boat came closer, the soldiers on Teng Yun’s boat became alert and thrust their long spears to stop the beggar.
The beggar laughed. With the bamboo pole he hit one of the soldiers’s spears, sending it straight into the river water.
The three He brothers saw this beggar had skill in martial art and were eager for a fight. They took their own weapons and jumped forward to attack. But before their spear could touch the small boat, poor He Zhong was hit square in the chest by the broken pot. He fell onto the floor and could not get up for a long time.
The broken pot was so dirty it was black, and smelled very fishy.
Teng Yun ordered the others to stand back then walked closer to the beggar, “Does this brave hero want to join the military?”
The beggar laughed again and said, “This young person looks delicate but actually has sharp eyes.”
“Just now you didn’t hit us with full strength, indicating you have no intention for a petty fight and also harbor no ill intention.”
The beggar said, “Then you already know about that, but why do you still plant troops near Zhi River?”
Teng Yun was unclear what the beggar meant and asked, “Please, senior enlighten me.”
The beggar said, “Zhao Lu has been staying low at the north side of Zhi River these ten days. If he really wishes to attack, he must have already. You can see smoke from Zhao Lu’s camp, but there is no sound of war drums. Isn’t this indication that Zhao Lu isn’t going to send troops to attack, and therefore, to borrow your words, harbor no ill intention.”
Hearing the beggar’s words, Teng Yun did feel it was reasonable. However, if Zhao Lu didn’t come to Teng to attack, was it because he was surrendering?
The beggar added, “Lord General might as well send troops and have a confrontation with Zhao Lu. Even if you lose, you can still destroy his army provisions. Zhao Lu actually has no reinforcement to back him. Should your thirty thousand soldiers be afraid of his ten thousand soldiers?”
Hearing this, Teng Yun was quite surprised. This person must have come from quite a distance from here only to help Teng Yun clear all of his doubts. This make Teng Yun quite relieved. This person was clever, his martial art was also good. Having a person like this in his army was certainly beneficial. If this person didn’t want to become a soldier, then at least Teng Yun could make him a trusted confidant.
Teng Yun immediately welcomed the beggar and straightforwardly asked to teach him more knowledge. The beggar didn’t refuse and said with a laugh, “I have once come to Teng Country. As soon as Marquis Tengnan saw me, he called me ugly and threw me out of the city wall. Who knew I’d meet another person with the surname Teng, but this one has a totally different attitude.”
At this time, the three He brothers muttered, “How come you’re called ugly? We three brothers are ugly, but you are ugly and stinky!”
Teng Yun held back his smile and respectfully invited the beggar to the bigger ship. He ordered people to fetch water for the beggar to clean up and a set of clean clothes.
What everyone didn’t expect was, after the dirty beggar cleaned himself, what came out was a beautiful young man with fair skin.
He Zhong said, “You dared say Teng Ying was delicate, as I see it, you are more delicate than him!”
The man laughed, “Unfortunately, this delicate fellow has been appointed a Military General.”
The sentence shut He Zhong’s mouth quickly. His face turned red as he had to physically force himself stop arguing with this delicate man, since he would certainly lose.
Because Teng Yun had treated him with courtesy, the man was also polite. He said, “My name is Zhao Tong. I am Marquis Zhulu, Zhao Lu’s right hand man.”
“Zhao Lu!” The three He brothers shouted and immediately drew their swords to attack Zhao Tong. Zhao Tong didn’t even blink as he caught the swords flying towards him and sent them back into their sheaths with his bare hands.
Laughing, he said, “No need to panic. In fact, I come here to deliver Marquis Zhulu’s letter of alliance.”
He Zhong said, “Only ghosts would believe you!”
Zhao Tong pulled out a letter from inside his sleeves. It was a letter written personally by Zhao Lu, explaining that he was originally a Xue Country’s citizen. To repay Xue Wang’s grace, he volunteered to leave his homeland and go to Feng to become Xue Wang’s spy.
This letter was written long ago, before Zhao Lu was to leave Xue Country. The letter was sealed with Xue Junliang’s personal seal, written to avoid killing each other when Xue Country met Zhao Lu in the future.
It was just that Zhao Lu had never imagined that after he entered Feng Country’s military barrack, he would rose to become a general, let alone be brought to the Palace by Feng Wang himself and appointed as a high ranked Marquis.
As a Marquis, it became too difficult for Zhao Lu to get away.Because Feng Wang sent troops to attack Xue Country, Zhao Lu could only chose his most trusted soldiers and escape from Feng Country to surrender.
Reading this letter, Teng Yun’s heart trembled. Who knew Xue Junliang’s schemes was this deep and so far-fetched. Even Feng Country’s own Marquis Zhulu was Xue Junliang’s spy. Just where the limit of Xue Junliang’s insight, Teng Yun didn’t dare imagine.
Teng Yun couldn’t help thinking, if someday somehow, Xue Junliang found out that he was not the real Teng Ying, found out that his own Empress had been replaced by someone else. What kind of fate awaited Teng Yun if that day came? Teng Yun really could not fathom what kind of person Xue Junliang was.
The next day, Teng Yun left the three He brothers to guard Zhi River while he and Zhao Tong went to see Zhao Lu in person.
Zhao Lu had already received the news of Teng Yun coming. He and his ten thousand soldiers were all ready, waiting in a neat formation with their swords and helmets placed by their feet. No one carried any weapons in their persons to show their sincerity in surrendering.
When Zhao Tong saw his master, he immediately took off the blade he hid in his sleeves. He also took off his helmet, placed it on the ground along with his blade. Zhao Lu and Zhao Tong then led the soldiers to move to Xue Country’s army camp.
—
The news about Marquis Zhulu’s surrender reached Feng and shook the entire country. Every one was talking about it, some people cursed Zhao Lu’s betrayal while the other took this opportunity to add more mud to his reputation. Initially, Lu Shichen didn’t believe the rumors. He ordered people to inquire the truth, and when they came back, they reported they saw Marquis Zhulu’s camp was empty except thousands of helmets and swords left behind on the ground.
Lu Shichen’s people even brought back some of those swords and helmets as proof. Now, no one could deny the news any longer. Lu Shichen, who always respected Zhao Lu, was so shocked he almost fainted.
A few days later, a person asked to see Zhao Lu. That person actually was Rui Xue. She bowed down as she handed him an item.
It was a broken zither, covered in blood.
Rui Xue said, “Master… Your residence is searched and confiscated by the Palace. You are announced to have committed a heinous crime. People even demanded all of your servants to be killed. Prime Minister Lu helped me out of the city gate and told me to bring this broken zither to you.”
Zhao Lu reached out to touch the zither, his hands shook slightly. He gently stroke the strings on the zither but said nothing.
Rui Xue asked tearfully, “Aren’t you going to ask about Feng Wang?”
“Oh… How is he?”
Rui Xue whispered, “Feng Wang is… I can only say.. that he is still alive.”
Teng Yun, who was still unsure of Zhao Lu, heard that a person from Feng Country had come to see Zhao Lu, was naturally suspicious. He had come to find out what Zhao Lu and that person was talking about.
Never had he imagined he’d come to hear this.
Teng Yun sighed. He had heard about the relationship between Feng Wang and Marquis Zhulu. He didn’t understand what kind of feeling could form between two men, but looking at Rui Xue’s genuine sadness, it seemed that the feeling was not fake. Maybe fate really was cruel.
—
Never would have Feng Ming thought that Zhao Lu was the clingy sort. Zhao Lu always seemed indifferent and his conduct was also cold. Yet, these past two days, Zhao Lu often came just to see Feng Ming.
Feng Ming understood maybe it was because Zhao Lu felt the pressure of his imminent departure to the battlefields. After all, if given a choice, Feng Ming himself also didn’t want Zhao Lu to go. But in this entire Feng country, there was no one else Feng Ming could put his trust entirely other than Zhao Lu.
Even though Zhao Lu was being unexpectedly clingy, he still didn’t talk very much and didn’t show any of his feelings. He was still cold as he was before, so Feng Ming didn’t think too much about it. Only Zhao Lu himself knew clearly the reason behind his restlessness : Feng and Xue countries had always been leading up to war, and now the day of the final battle would finally arrive.
As Feng Ming and his ministers were discussing strategies for sending troops, everyone asked the Prime Minister’s opinion.
Luo Shichen said, “This servant is only an ignorant scholar, only ever know a life in peace and security. Regarding war and soldiers, this servant seeks to learn from Marquis Zhulu.”
Zhao Lu was looking down, pretending to be absorbed in the map on the table. Internally, he was struggling; every word he was about to say gave him great pains.
Because the steps that he’d taken all of his life, every one of them was meticulously designed to deceive Feng Ming and to eventually bring victory for Xue Junliang.
Zhao Lu said, “Xue Country’s army is very well trained and strong, moreover, now that Xue Wang had conquered Teng Country’s army, they should not be taken lightly. On the surface, it does seem like we are at a disadvantageous position… But remember, Teng Country was conquered and Teng Wang is now in prison, people’s hearts might not be quite harmonious. Taking advantage of this, maybe we can start by attacking Teng Country’s territory, breaking through their weak borders and occupying their land. After that, we can turn to attack Xue Country from two sides.”
Everyone nodded in agreement to Zhao Lu’s suggestions. Lu Shichen said, “It is indeed a good strategy, but Teng Country is quite far, I’m afraid our army would be too exhausted after the journey and not be able to easily conquer Teng Country’s lands.”
Zhao Lu said, “The situation in Teng Country is not yet peaceful and secure. We can send some people to spread rumors among Teng people, say that Xue Wang is aiming to kill Marquis Tengnan. Remember that Teng people had killed Xue Wang’s Empress, therefore Xue Wang wants to eliminate the whole Teng Country as revenge. This way, Teng people will be too afraid and anxious, and have no heart to go to war. We can send ten thousand soldiers as pioneer to raid Teng Country’s military power and resources, paving the way for us.”
Everyone once again nodded in agreement to Zhao Lu’s suggestion, it was indeed a very good one. Feng Ming also agreed. If they occupied Teng Country’s lands first, Feng Country’s soldiers wouldn’t have to worry about food and water, wouldn’t have to set up a new camp either. Besides, if Feng Country could attack from two sides, it would be too difficult for Xue Junliang to defend his territory.
Lu Shichen said, “The plan is excellent, but I’m afraid Xue Wang will send troops to intercept Marquis Zhulu’s journey. It could break our formation and reduce our army’s strength.”
Feng Ming said, “Then send a selected group of soldiers to create a false trail by attacking Xue Country’s borders. This will distract Xue Junliang enough so Marquis Zhulu can safely arrive at Teng Country.”
Zhao Lu nodded, while inwardly sighed in regret. Feng Ming really trusted him, even made plans to help him and protect him from dangers.
Feng Ming and his subordinates discussed strategies until the sky turned dark. Just before the Palace gates were closed, the ministers were all dismissed, leaving only Zhao Lu who stayed in the Palace.
Although many poeple thought that Zhao Lu had rose to his current position by climbing into the king’s bed, but they still had to admit Zhao Lu was very knowledgeable regarding military and war matters.
Because he was going to war tomorrow, Zhao Lu was exceptionally rough with Feng Ming. Feng Ming was a soldier, was once a military general, therefore he was not weak. But after going at it for many rounds with Zhao Lu, he was utterly exhausted.
Feng Ming had always been helpless when it came to Zhao Lu, even an innocent person like Lu Shichen could see it. On one occasion, Feng Ming was having a discussion with Lu Shichen about the accident at Ming River. The two was so deep into the discussion that they almost forgot about Zhao Lu who was also present. Zhao Lu himself didn’t know what came over him when he suddenly stepped forward and kissed Feng Ming right in front of Lu Shichen.
Realizing that Zhao Lu might be jealous, Feng Ming was quite happy, but he also felt uncomfortable in showing intimacy in front of Lu Shichen.
Lu Shichen the innocent scholar was not used to seeing such display. His face turned bright red and he immediately averted his eyesight. In the end he excused himself, all the while not daring lifting his eyes to look at the other two.
The next day, it was almost noon when Feng Ming finally woke up. Rui Xue who had been anxiously waiting for him, quickly came over and helped Feng Ming wash and get dressed.
Feng Ming felt sore all over his body. Although he was used to the pain, but he was not a god. He had to move slowly and gingerly.
“Where is your Master?”
Rui Xue hesitated before answering weakly, “Master said there was no use delaying things, so he already led his troops to start their journey very early this morning.”
Feng Ming smiled after some moment of silence and said, “What’s wrong? Are you worried for your master? I’m not even worried but you looked like you’ve been crying.”
Rui Xue wiped her tears, “This servant.. Is just worried about you, Your Majesty.”
Feng Ming said, “Well, don’t be. I completely believe your master will come back to me safely. Zhao Lu has never lost in any battle.”
This sentence only made Rui Xue even sadder. She started crying in earnest, her tears falling down uncontrollably.
Rui Xue was still young, realizing she might have never seen war and was quite distressed for her master, Feng Ming offered a few words to comfort her before allowing her to go home early and take the rest of the day off.
But what Feng Ming didn’t know was that Rui Xue wasn’t crying about the war. She knew that this time with Zhao Lu gone, he was gone for good and would never come back to Feng.
This morning, before his departure, Zhao Lu stayed for a long time by Feng Wang’s side, tenderly caressing Feng Wang’s hair. He reminded Rui Xue to take good care of Feng Ming. Feng Ming had no one else around him he could trust, therefore Rui Xue must give him company.
After donning his armor, Zhao Lu immediately left. He threw one long glance at the Palace behind him before ordering army to start their march. The ten thousand soldiers, with their high banner signed ‘Marquis Zhulu’ left for Teng Country.
—
When Teng Yun led the soldiers to Teng Country, he heard rumors that Xue Junliang was going to kill Marquis Tengnan. He was afraid the people, upon hearing the rumor, would grow restless and start an uproar, especially considering Teng Country had just been conquered by Xue Junliang. Fortunately, Teng Yun’s arrival could curb their anxiety.
The local Teng officials were still wary of Xue Wang. They didn’t want to give money to fund the repairing project, but they were willing to lend their hands.
The three He brothers were still suspicious of Teng Yun, and still frequently threatened to kill him. Initially they would rather break their hands than helping a prisoner like Teng Ying, build temples. Teng Yun didn’t force them. He only rolled his sleeves and worked together with the soldiers.
Seeing this, although the three He brothers still hate Teng Yun, at least they no longer said malicious things.
Many Teng Country’s wealthy merchants heard about the project of repairing the temple, came from all over the country to donate money. Refugees who sought shelters at the temple and the local residents had no money they could donate, so they voluntarily enlisted in the army as soldiers. In only a few days, Teng Yun had gained twenty thousand new soldiers.
For most of his life, Teng Yun had been in battles away from his home country. But he was still aware which officials were corrupt and which were not.
Teng Yun brought the three He brothers for a formal visit to these corrupt officials and dragged their sons to train as soldiers. These arrogant officials of course didn’t want the heirs of their families go and become soldiers, so Teng Yun made them choose between donating money for the project or giving away their sons to the army.
Officials who didn’t have sons were ordered to be arrested. Teng Yun reasoned that if these corrupt officials were left to do as they please, they and their heirs would endanger the people’s well-being.
The corrupt officials were all most afraid of death, so they could only giving away their money to Teng Yun.
What Teng Yun wanted was exactly this result. He had intentionally brought with him the three He brothers. The corrupt officials would not be able to refuse because they wouldn’t dare fight against the brothers.
Soon, this matter passed to Xue Junliang’s ears. Several of his officials had raise a report that the prisoner, Teng Ying, had accepted bribes and robbed people off their money, which then only made Teng people unhappy.
Just after Xue Junliang read the court officials’ report, He Zhong came to report. He was sent by Teng Yun to bring the accounting books to Xue Wang. The books stated that in the matter of only three days, the number of soldiers had grown to thirty thousand. They also had gained a large number of money in the form of silver and gold, which could be used to cover military costs.
Xue Junliang asked He Zhong, “Has the prisoner, Teng Ying received any bribes?”
He Zhong scratched his head and said, “The money we collected were all handled by us three, he never once touched any of it.”
Xue Junliang nodded and said nothing. He thought since Teng Ying had said he had a way to gain Teng people’s heart, then he really had a way. There was no need for Xue Junliang to do anything.
A spy reported to Teng Yun that Marquis Zhulu of Feng and his ten thousand army were all heading to Teng. Teng Yun had recruited thirty thousand army. Teng Country did not lack in grains and provisions, and the army’s fund was sufficient. Teng Yun was not worried about logistics.
But these thirty thousand soldiers were all new-recruits and had not receive deep training. If they had to go to war, the odds were not in their side.
Teng Yun ordered the soldiers to dig pits and install traps. He also sent groups of soldiers on boats to the Zhi River to intercept Marquis Zhulu’s soldiers.
Many of Zhao Lu’s front line soldiers fell down the pits and were immediately killed by Teng Yun’s soldiers who were waiting for them hidden from view. Although Zhao Lu’s soldiers were more well-trained, they still panic over the traps. The commanders ordered the soldiers to avoid areas with the traps and turn their horses around to retreat.
Teng Yun didn’t order the soldiers to chase the retreating enemy. He opted for making a camp near the Zhi River.
Three He brothers were excited to fight and wanted to attack the enemy head on. Teng Yun allowed the three to raid the enemy’s camp in the middle of the night, to create riot and prevent Zhao Lu build a secure camp.
The three He brothers led a group of horse riders and launch a series of sneak attacks to the enemy camp’s three sides, but they were not ordered to kill. They would just turned around as soon as they saw the enemy’s soldiers.
The enemy soldiers, seeing only a small group coming, started to give chase. As a result, they were led into the area with the traps and fell down the pits.
He Zhong was too busy laughing at the enemy’s stupidity and forgot to watch his steps. He fell down into one of the pits and his horse broke its leg. At this time, Zhao Lu led his soldiers to catch up with the He brothers. Afraid Zhao Lu was going to kill He Zhong, He Yi and He Ren turned their horses to intercept Zhao Lu while ordering the other soldiers to help He Zhong.
Zhao Lu was very skilled, not easily tricked or defeated. The two He brothers had to fight Zhao Lu with all their might.
Teng Yun waited but the three He brothers still hadn’t returned. He sent people to find out what had happened. The spy returned to report that the three generals were intercepted near Zhi River by Marquis Zhulu, and were now fighting with the Marquis.
Teng Yun knew the situation wasn’t good for the three brothers. He ordered the soldiers to make fires and scream cries of war to create situation resembling that of an actual war. He then brought thirty soldiers to the river to save the three He brothers.
When Teng Yun arrived, He Zhong had just climbed out of the pit and was rushing to fight with Zhao Lu. Teng Yun ordered his people to circle Zhao Lu, but he didn’t want to fight for too long in case more of Feng Country’s soldiers came, which then the situation would only turn for worse.
Teng Yun and his soldiers deliberately made a few weak points in their encirclement, counting on Zhao Lu to take advantage of these flaws to break free and run back to his army camp. Not wanting Zhao Lu to retaliate by bringing more soldiers, Teng Yun led his people to return to their own camp.
The capital city was soon made aware of the fight with Zhao Lu. Xue Junliang passed the report to Xue Houyang who was surprised when he read it.
“But… I don’t understand. If Teng Ying was this smart, why would he help Teng Qianyi set fire to Yunfeng Palace?”
Xue Junliang shook his head, “I don’t understand either.”
Xue Houyang suddenly remebered, “Your Majesty, Zhao Lu is leading soldiers to invade our territory. Although Teng Ying unexpectedly could hold Zhao Lu back, this is not going to work long-term. Sooner or later Zhao Lu would find out that Teng Ying’s soldiers are all new recruits. By then, Zhao Lu would naturally attack. The situation in Teng is still tense, I think it’s better if we send troops there to defend the territory, this way people’s hearts can feel more secure.”
Xue Junliang laughed while shaking his head, “Just you wait, Zhao Lu will surrender to us.”
Xue Houyang was unsure, but Xue Junliang didn’t elaborate, so Xue Houyang didn’t dare asking more questions.
—
Although Teng Country did not lack money, Teng Yun feared the time was not enough to train the soldiers. With him stationed just south of Zhi River, he could only count on the river as the only fortress dividing them from Zhao Lu who was on the north side. Right now, Zhao Lu hadn’t sent any more attacks, but Teng Yun was till worried for his soldiers’ situation.
Teng Yun sat on a small boat overlooking across the river and was contemplating what to do when he heard someone singing. A small boat was passing by, its sail was spread wide to catch the wind. The boat was slowly coming near Teng Yun’s.
The one rowing the boat looked like a beggar wearing a broken pot on top of his head. The beggar was rowing with a bamboo pole while chanting some song. As the beggar’s boat came closer, the soldiers on Teng Yun’s boat became alert and thrust their long spears to stop the beggar.
The beggar laughed. With the bamboo pole he hit one of the soldiers’s spears, sending it straight into the river water.
The three He brothers saw this beggar had skill in martial art and were eager for a fight. They took their own weapons and jumped forward to attack. But before their spear could touch the small boat, poor He Zhong was hit square in the chest by the broken pot. He fell onto the floor and could not get up for a long time.
The broken pot was so dirty it was black, and smelled very fishy.
Teng Yun ordered the others to stand back then walked closer to the beggar, “Does this brave hero want to join the military?”
The beggar laughed again and said, “This young person looks delicate but actually has sharp eyes.”
“Just now you didn’t hit us with full strength, indicating you have no intention for a petty fight and also harbor no ill intention.”
The beggar said, “Then you already know about that, but why do you still plant troops near Zhi River?”
Teng Yun was unclear what the beggar meant and asked, “Please, senior enlighten me.”
The beggar said, “Zhao Lu has been staying low at the north side of Zhi River these ten days. If he really wishes to attack, he must have already. You can see smoke from Zhao Lu’s camp, but there is no sound of war drums. Isn’t this indication that Zhao Lu isn’t going to send troops to attack, and therefore, to borrow your words, harbor no ill intention.”
Hearing the beggar’s words, Teng Yun did feel it was reasonable. However, if Zhao Lu didn’t come to Teng to attack, was it because he was surrendering?
The beggar added, “Lord General might as well send troops and have a confrontation with Zhao Lu. Even if you lose, you can still destroy his army provisions. Zhao Lu actually has no reinforcement to back him. Should your thirty thousand soldiers be afraid of his ten thousand soldiers?”
Hearing this, Teng Yun was quite surprised. This person must have come from quite a distance from here only to help Teng Yun clear all of his doubts. This make Teng Yun quite relieved. This person was clever, his martial art was also good. Having a person like this in his army was certainly beneficial. If this person didn’t want to become a soldier, then at least Teng Yun could make him a trusted confidant.
Teng Yun immediately welcomed the beggar and straightforwardly asked to teach him more knowledge. The beggar didn’t refuse and said with a laugh, “I have once come to Teng Country. As soon as Marquis Tengnan saw me, he called me ugly and threw me out of the city wall. Who knew I’d meet another person with the surname Teng, but this one has a totally different attitude.”
At this time, the three He brothers muttered, “How come you’re called ugly? We three brothers are ugly, but you are ugly and stinky!”
Teng Yun held back his smile and respectfully invited the beggar to the bigger ship. He ordered people to fetch water for the beggar to clean up and a set of clean clothes.
What everyone didn’t expect was, after the dirty beggar cleaned himself, what came out was a beautiful young man with fair skin.
He Zhong said, “You dared say Teng Ying was delicate, as I see it, you are more delicate than him!”
The man laughed, “Unfortunately, this delicate fellow has been appointed a Military General.”
The sentence shut He Zhong’s mouth quickly. His face turned red as he had to physically force himself stop arguing with this delicate man, since he would certainly lose.
Because Teng Yun had treated him with courtesy, the man was also polite. He said, “My name is Zhao Tong. I am Marquis Zhulu, Zhao Lu’s right hand man.”
“Zhao Lu!” The three He brothers shouted and immediately drew their swords to attack Zhao Tong. Zhao Tong didn’t even blink as he caught the swords flying towards him and sent them back into their sheaths with his bare hands.
Laughing, he said, “No need to panic. In fact, I come here to deliver Marquis Zhulu’s letter of alliance.”
He Zhong said, “Only ghosts would believe you!”
Zhao Tong pulled out a letter from inside his sleeves. It was a letter written personally by Zhao Lu, explaining that he was originally a Xue Country’s citizen. To repay Xue Wang’s grace, he volunteered to leave his homeland and go to Feng to become Xue Wang’s spy.
This letter was written long ago, before Zhao Lu was to leave Xue Country. The letter was sealed with Xue Junliang’s personal seal, written to avoid killing each other when Xue Country met Zhao Lu in the future.
It was just that Zhao Lu had never imagined that after he entered Feng Country’s military barrack, he would rose to become a general, let alone be brought to the Palace by Feng Wang himself and appointed as a high ranked Marquis.
As a Marquis, it became too difficult for Zhao Lu to get away.Because Feng Wang sent troops to attack Xue Country, Zhao Lu could only chose his most trusted soldiers and escape from Feng Country to surrender.
Reading this letter, Teng Yun’s heart trembled. Who knew Xue Junliang’s schemes was this deep and so far-fetched. Even Feng Country’s own Marquis Zhulu was Xue Junliang’s spy. Just where the limit of Xue Junliang’s insight, Teng Yun didn’t dare imagine.
Teng Yun couldn’t help thinking, if someday somehow, Xue Junliang found out that he was not the real Teng Ying, found out that his own Empress had been replaced by someone else. What kind of fate awaited Teng Yun if that day came? Teng Yun really could not fathom what kind of person Xue Junliang was.
The next day, Teng Yun left the three He brothers to guard Zhi River while he and Zhao Tong went to see Zhao Lu in person.
Zhao Lu had already received the news of Teng Yun coming. He and his ten thousand soldiers were all ready, waiting in a neat formation with their swords and helmets placed by their feet. No one carried any weapons in their persons to show their sincerity in surrendering.
When Zhao Tong saw his master, he immediately took off the blade he hid in his sleeves. He also took off his helmet, placed it on the ground along with his blade. Zhao Lu and Zhao Tong then led the soldiers to move to Xue Country’s army camp.
—
The news about Marquis Zhulu’s surrender reached Feng and shook the entire country. Every one was talking about it, some people cursed Zhao Lu’s betrayal while the other took this opportunity to add more mud to his reputation. Initially, Lu Shichen didn’t believe the rumors. He ordered people to inquire the truth, and when they came back, they reported they saw Marquis Zhulu’s camp was empty except thousands of helmets and swords left behind on the ground.
Lu Shichen’s people even brought back some of those swords and helmets as proof. Now, no one could deny the news any longer. Lu Shichen, who always respected Zhao Lu, was so shocked he almost fainted.
A few days later, a person asked to see Zhao Lu. That person actually was Rui Xue. She bowed down as she handed him an item.
It was a broken zither, covered in blood.
Rui Xue said, “Master… Your residence is searched and confiscated by the Palace. You are announced to have committed a heinous crime. People even demanded all of your servants to be killed. Prime Minister Lu helped me out of the city gate and told me to bring this broken zither to you.”
Zhao Lu reached out to touch the zither, his hands shook slightly. He gently stroke the strings on the zither but said nothing.
Rui Xue asked tearfully, “Aren’t you going to ask about Feng Wang?”
“Oh… How is he?”
Rui Xue whispered, “Feng Wang is… I can only say.. that he is still alive.”
Teng Yun, who was still unsure of Zhao Lu, heard that a person from Feng Country had come to see Zhao Lu, was naturally suspicious. He had come to find out what Zhao Lu and that person was talking about.
Never had he imagined he’d come to hear this.
Teng Yun sighed. He had heard about the relationship between Feng Wang and Marquis Zhulu. He didn’t understand what kind of feeling could form between two men, but looking at Rui Xue’s genuine sadness, it seemed that the feeling was not fake. Maybe fate really was cruel.
