FENG YU JIU TIAN VOLUME 11

 CHAPTER 1

(A King’s Love)

XFENGYUJIUTIAN.TUMBLR.COM TRANSLATOR: CHRISTY EDITORS: FERN & SZARA

The whole room was silent; even a needle falling to the ground could be heard. Everyone’s gaze rested upon Feng Ming as they held their breath waiting for his reply.

Feng Ming used all of his courage to look straight at Lie Zhong Liu as he replied, “Without you, Rong Tian will still be able to unify the world. However, if you were to a.s.sist us, the road in unifying the world will be a lot easier.”

He knew that every word he said at this time was extremely important, yet he still felt unease at the words he had just spoken. Although feeling that way, he cannot let his uneasiness be shown.

FM: People have always wanted to dominate the world, but they often overlook the process of getting there, and thus many innocent people have to suffer through the torture. Once a war breaks loose, those who are young and healthy are recruited and sent to the battlefields, while those who are elderly and ill are left to wander about. If the war reaches stalemate and no one wants to surrender, then the battle will continue for another two or three decades. In the end, no matter who sits on the throne, those who survive will suffer and will be no different than those who died. Just thinking about it is too painful to bear. If Rong Tian has someone like you as his strategist, and with careful planning, I believe that things will be a whole lot different.

While trying to persuade Lie Zhong Liu, Feng Ming recalled the experience at Aman River where the battle between Ruo Yan and Rong Tian ended in bloodshed, coloring the river a b.l.o.o.d.y red.

Although Xi Lei had won that battle, Ruo Yan still sat on the throne after recovering, while many countless lives were forever lost. The situation at that time was unavoidable and there was no other choice. However, those people could have had a life of peace. They could have simply become a farmer or a hunter...

FM: On the battlefield, there might be fire or water attack. Some sc.u.mbags might use poison. There also might be those who use strategies and tricks to gain the upper hand on the battlefield. That day at Dong Fan, if you had been there to a.s.sist us as Prime Minister, then we might have avoided the outcome where many innocent lives were lost because of smallpox.

Everything had been expressed; the meaning is within the words.

FM: Even right now, if it hadn’t been for you, there would have been many difficulties and casualties during the overtake of Yue Zhong...Therefore, Feng Ming sincerely requests for you to stay. I don’t want a future world in which wars lasts for decades, riddled with deaths in the battle for conquest. If my words have managed to persuade you, I kindly ask if you would consider staying beside Rong Tian?

While everyone was feeling a sense of sadness, Wei Chiu Niang, who was still tied, turned her head around and yelled at Lie Zhong Liu.

WCN: I won’t allow you to answer! You’ve always bragged how intelligent you are, but don’t you realize that if you help him, how many people will you be killing? Don’t all the people who want to conquer the world always see death and bloodshed? What are you waiting for, quickly refuse him.

FM: What Lady Lie said is correct. One step towards victory lays a thousand dead corpses. In the process of unifying the world, it is difficult to avoid bloodshed. Although one cannot avoid it, one can minimize the casualties. Therefore, I sincerely ask if Mister Lie would stay beside Rong Tian to change the outcome, and steer us from a situation where many innocent lives would be lost.

After finis.h.i.+ng, Feng Ming stood in front of Wei Chiu Niang. With everyone as witnesses, he knelt down and bowed in respect, “I seek for your approval.”

She was surprised by Feng Ming’s gesture and was judging to see if there was any deception on his sincere face.

WCN: Do you think that just a few sweet words can impress me? You must be dreaming!

Every since Feng Ming gave his reply, Lie Zhong Liu made no movement at all. At this time, he finally looked towards the window with melancholic eyes and whispered, “One step towards victory lays a thousand dead corpses... For thousands of years, those who held the highest position—the high-status royalties—which one of them would think about the numerous corpses they step over in order to walk the b.l.o.o.d.y path of conquering the world?”

His shoulders slightly trembled as he turned around to face everyone and let out a long sigh.

LZL: The words Duke Ming spoke—although they are not the most comforting of words—they held a benevolence that is rarely seen in this world. In the many years that I have wandered about, secretly observing the royalties and n.o.bles of the eleven kingdoms, I have never found anyone that can compare to Duke Ming’s compa.s.sion.

FM: Mister, can you give me a clear answer? I’m still not certain if what you just said is agreeing or refusing my request.

Lie Zhong Liu nodded his head, “Of course I’m accepting your request.” The corner of his mouth lifted as it revealed a calming smile.

After agreeing to become their Prime Minister, there was a banquet prepared for the event. As for Lie Er, he was still upset about Wei Chiu Niang shooting an arrow at Rong Tian and wanted to find some way get even with her.

Lie Er wanted to invite Wei Chiu Niang to banquet despite Feng Ming believing that it would be a bad idea if she stirred up trouble during the banquet. However, Lie Er convinced Feng Ming and told Feng Ming that he will personally invite her without having Feng Ming worry about it. Feng Ming agreed and Lie Er went off to check in on Wei Chiu Niang.

Wei Chiu Niang refused to go to the banquet. However, Lie Er wouldn’t accept that. While arguing, Wei Chiu Niang told Lie Er that if she went to the banquet, wouldn’t he be worried that she might tell everyone about his past? Lie Er didn’t stop there and instead prompted her to talk about his past since he already told everyone. Wei Chiu Niang only uttered the name, “Yu Lang,” and just that name made Lie Er uneasy and tremble in fear.

WCN: You don’t have to be afraid, I won’t tell anyone about this.

LE: Who’s afraid? If you want to say it then just say it, no need to cry over it. The words were clear, but yet his voice shook..

Ever since Lie Er was young, he was appointed as Rong Tian’s bodyguard. He was clever, cunning, no one could be compared to him. At a young age, he was already juggling the King of Yong Yin within the palm of his hands. But never had he met a second person like Yu Lang, a cold-blooded, heartless, cruel and vicious person.

Even though Ruo Yan is a ruthless person who was hated by all, judging by his scheming techniques that can cause one to choose not to live nor die easily, he was still a long way from Yu Lang.

At this point, Lie Er didn’t care whether or not Wei Chiu Niang attended the banquet as he felt it was best for him to leave the room. As he opened the door, to his surprise, Feng Ming was standing there, overhearing the conversation.

Feng Ming told Lie Er that he felt it was best for him to personally invite Wei Chiu Niang instead of leaving that duty to Lie Er alone. Lie Er informed Feng Ming that he tried to convince Wei Chiu Niang, but she still refuses to go. If Feng Ming wishes to persuade her again, then he can, while Lie Er took his leave.

Feng Ming still couldn’t convince Wei Chiu Niang to attend the banquet, but before he left, he wanted Wei Chiu Niang to tell him a bit more about Yu Lang.

WCN: If you really wanted to know, then why didn’t you ask him when he was standing in front of you, instead of asking me?

FM: You are very right, Feng Ming is wrong.

Feng Ming respectfully bowed to Wei Chiu Niang before leaving the room.

Even though Wei Chiu Niang did not know them for a long time, she had heard of Xi Lei Duke Ming’s reputation. The handsome man in front of her had once been kidnapped to Bo Jian, went to Fan Jia, and tore up Dong Fan in an earth-shattering event that caused even the talented Lu Dan to be defeated by his hands. With Xi Lei’s King, Rong Tian, as his support, Feng Ming has coincidentally become the most infamous figure in the world.

At this time, his stumbled words gave a different impression than one would imagine. Not only did he not have half the sharpness of the domineering Rong Tian, instead, he was like a little child without a clue, simple and naïve that can make anyone grow fond of.

But today, it had also been that little child who displayed his eloquent speech. If it weren’t for one sentence, “Shorten the time of unifying the world” and then another, “One step towards victory lays a thousand dead corpses,” then that b.a.s.t.a.r.d Lie Zhong Liu wouldn’t be moved to the point of aiding Rong Tian.

Her phoenix eyes diverted from where Feng Ming left as she pondered for a long time.

As for Feng Ming, he was still curious and wanted to investigate about the Yu Lang incident. Walking out of the hallway, he met with Chiu Lan and Rong Hu kissing each other and walking towards his direction. Feng Ming coughed once and told them, “I’ve caught you red handed. You think that after marrying a nice wife you can just be lazy?”

Chiu Lan and Rong Hu were caught off guard. They looked up to see Feng Ming laughing at them.

Chiu Lan distanced herself from Rong Hu. “Duke Ming is banding together with everyone to tease us. How annoying, it’s clear that His Majesty gave the order for marriage and yet you are still teasing us.”

RH: It’s not that Chiu Lan and I are lazy, Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing are taking care of the entertainment portion. Chiu Lan said that since we were on the mountains for several days, Duke Ming couldn’t enjoy a decent meal; therefore, she purposely made several new dishes and wanted me to do a taste test.

FM: Then hurry up and test them, remember to leave half of it. Don’t use the excuse that it’s not good to eat everything. And Chiu Lan, don’t be like that, I’m not as loud-mouth as everyone so no one will tease you. On the way here, did you two see Lie Er?

CL: We did, but he only said a few words. He saw us and slowed down his pace, saying that he needed to check the storage room outside the city wall and left.

FM: How was his facial expression?

CL: He was not like usual, grimacing and poor eye contact.

RH: Why? Is something wrong with Lie Er?

FM: Nothing. I ordered him to invite Lady Lie to the banquet, but that person is not easy to talk to. I’m just afraid Lie Er had an argument with her. You two should hurry and go.

Feng Ming went back to his room where Rong Tian hugged him from behind.

RT: Where did you run off to? The banquet is about to start, and you took advantage of when I’m not looking to sneak away?

FM: I’m hungry, is there anything to eat?

Rong Tian carried him into the room. Not wanting to put Feng Ming down, he allowed him to sit on his lap as he served Feng Ming some snacks.

RT: You’re more and more high maintenance now. Within the entire world, only you receive fortune of having a king carefully serving you like this.

While feeding Feng Ming, Rong Tian lightly kissed him on the lips and whispered, “That sheep intestine skin, I’ve sent someone to create a good one. Luckily, there was someone in Yue Zhong who raised sheeps and so I’ve finally found ... Ah! Little Monster!” A sudden pain was felt as he cursed in shock and withdrew his finger.

It was too late, Feng Ming had angrily bitten his finger, imprinted by teeth marks.

Zi Yan and a few other soldiers came in to report some updated news. Feng Ming quickly freed himself from Rong Tian and sat on a chair next to him.

Mian Ya reported to them that Long Tian has recently pa.s.sed away. Rong Tian and Feng Ming were not surprised since Lady Yao Ye had already informed them about poisoning Long Tian and his death was imminent.

It was unfortunate that Ruo Yan had brought an army to ambush them, causing Rong Tian to lose his advantageous point–Third Princess Fan Zhi. It seemed that this exclusive gift wouldn’t be received after all.

RT: When did Long Tian died? Was it because of poison? At that time, was anyone present?

MY: (shook his head) The spies we’ve sent only heard a little bit of news. The overall situation was strictly concealed, but according to my guesses, he has been dead for some time now.

Rong Tian ordered Mian Ya to follow up with it.

FM: What’s the current situation? Third Princess is no longer alive, Long Tian is dead, the royal bloodline of Fan Jia seems to be over. Perhaps Ruo Yan will try to take over Fan Jia.

RT: It isn’t that he’ll try, he will most definitely want to overtake it. Ruo Yan has always been hungry for Fan Jia for some time, and had placed many different p.a.w.ns to take advantage of. Fan Jia is a place that holds the Aman River, with fertile lands and great for irrigation. Once he conquers Fan Jia, it will give Ruo Yan power to dominate the world.

FM: If his strength is increased, then it will be a huge disadvantage to us. What are we going to do now? It’s bad, you still haven’t recovered your place on the throne of Xi Lei. If Tong Er continues to join forces with Ruo Yan, then we’ll be in a bad situation.

RT: That’s right, that’s right. The situation is unfavorable to us. Duke Ming should quickly find a way to help me resolve this problem. If not, then you are deemed incompetent and tonight I’ll punish you in bed. Ah, how many times should it be?

Awhile ago, Mian Ya had gone outside, but right at this moment, two guards rushed in and heard Rong Tian’s words.

Feng Ming was so embarra.s.sed that he started cursing, “A dog’s bark can’t even spit out an elephant’s tusk! You are still the Great King and yet you use politics as something to joke about. Why are you threatening me? Haven’t I, Duke Ming, help find you a great and powerful Prime Minister? I just think that the most important thing right now is to quickly depart and recapture your rightful throne.

Rong Tian nodded his head and sternly said, “You’re right, we should do that.” Thus, Feng Ming’s plan was recognized.

CHAPTER 2

The banquet finally started. Though it was not as extravagant as the previous banquets held in the palace (due to lack of food and wine within Yue Zhong), it was a meaningful one.

In order to express the importance of Lie Zhong Liu, they arranged his position next to Rong Tian and Feng Ming’s sitting.

It wasn’t for long until they heard one of the guards said, “Prime Minister, this way.”

Feng Ming was sitting at the same table as Rong Tian, he raised his foot and kicked him, “Hurry and stand up to greet him.”

Rong Tian also whispered back, “I am the Great King, he is a Prime Minister, why should I give him my greetings?”

FM: Idiot, showing your respect and courtesy will win over any talented people. Seeing Feng Ming staring at him, Rong Tian decided not to tease him anymore. RT: The person you put in much effort to invite here, why would I dare to neglect?

After finis.h.i.+ng, he took Feng Ming by the hand and led everyone outside to greet the new Prime Minister. Lie Zhong Liu was wearing a white robe and blue belt, which made him appear very similar to Lu Dan.

The food and drinks were brought forth, Feng Ming couldn’t help complimenting Chiu Lan for the excellent food. Looking over at Lie Zhong Liu, Feng Ming said to him attentively, “All these dishes are very good, Chiu Lan’s cookery is great, you should eat a bit more.”

LZL: (laughing) I’m not fortunate like Duke Ming—having beautiful ladies serving you left and right, how can I have the appet.i.te?

He then looked over at the maids standing behind Feng Ming.

Rong Tian gave Lie Zhong Liu a toast and asked him which of the maids he prefer (to help serve him).

“Ah?” Feng Ming looked back in shock.

Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing look terrified as they hid behind Feng Ming, afraid of being chosen by Lie Zhong Liu.

LZL: Anyone is good, anyone is good. Haha...as long as it’s a beautiful person, I’ll love them all.

This person who laments about world and always have a pondering demeanor, once he sees a beautiful person, he lost all of his Prime Minister attributes, a huge change that made everyone drop their jaw in disbelief.

Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing were whimpering to Feng Ming, pulling his sleeves in hope for him to help them.

FM: Your honor, with your grace and talent, there must be lots of beautiful women who admire you. If you give me some time, I’ll find someone to fit your needs...

“Here I am....” A clear voice suddenly interrupted Feng Ming’s words.

Everyone lifted their heads to see, it was no one else besides Lie Er, who just came back from who knows where.

Lie Er giggled as he ran forward and sat down beside Lie Zhong Liu, tilting his head as he smiled at him, “Although I’m not the number one most beautiful woman, but I’m a lot better than those twin sisters.”

Not caring for Lie Zhong Liu’s reaction, Lie Er wrapped his arms around his neck and gave him a forceful kiss on the face.

After the kiss, he glanced over at the food on the table and his two eyes lit up as he shouted out excitedly, “Wow, only sitting alongside the Prime Minister that one will enjoy such delicacies. No other people have these delicious foods.” He pulled up his sleeves, grabbed some food with his chopsticks and continued praising nonstop.

Seeing how Lie Er was so carefree, the corner of Lie Zhong Liu’s mouth curved as if smiling but not smiling. He also withdrew his glance from Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing as he followed Lie Er’s style of eating and gave a toast to Feng Ming.

Feng Ming accepted the toast. At this time, Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing’s hearts were beating wildly and were grateful to Lie Er. Taking the opportunity, they quickly excuse themselves to arrange for the dance entertainment, hoping to slip out from Lie Zhong Liu’s point of view.

During the dance, Feng Ming had a shocking surprise because Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing used his poems to create a song out of it. Of course, the poems were not originally created by Feng Ming, but by Li Bai (a famous poet during the Tang Dynasty). Feng Ming quickly told Lie Zhong Liu that the lyrics were not by him, which Lie Zhong Liu agreed – since those words didn’t seemed to be something Feng Ming would come up with judging by his age.

As for Lie Er, he drank a bunch of wine. He even ran towards Feng Ming and gave him a toast. After the second toast, Rong Tian stopped Lie Er and told him that the main guest of honor is Lie Zhong Liu and he should go over there and toast Lie Zhong Liu instead.

Lie Er did as ordered and Lie Zhong Liu didn’t refuse Lie Er’s toasting. While watching the dance, Lie Zhong Liu praised the beautiful outfits and asked whose needlework made them. Lie Er yelled out to Chiu Yue to come over and give Lie Zhong Liu a toast for his praises.

Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing were sitting besides Rong Hu and Zi Yan and had long taken over their spots as they gobbled down the delicious foods on the table. After hearing Lie Er, they made a face and continued to finish the dishes.

Soon the banquet ended and after the dancers left, the whole room was silent.

CHAPTER 3

Seeing how Lie Er was still drinking until his face became red, Lie Zhong Liu told him to take care of himself. Feng Ming also added in that if Lie Er continues drinking, how will they be able depart if he is still not sober?

That was when Lie Zhong Liu asked Feng Ming where they are planning on heading to.

FM: Returning to Xi Lei of course. Ah, I forgot to tell Prime Minister about our plans. From today onward, we will discuss everything with you.

Just like that, Feng Ming informed Lie Zhong Liu about the recent news they discovered about Long Tian’s death. Mian Ya interrupted and stated that ever since the rumors of Long Tian’s death spread, Ruo Yan immediately rushed over to Fan Jia, determined to overtake it.

LZL: The timing is not right. If Ruo Yan headed over there from Yong Yin, then the number of troops he has on hand are not many. Li Kingdom and Fan Jia are like fire and water, according to the people of Fan Jia, Ruo Yan is like an evil nemesis. Even though Fan Jia is like a snake without a head right now, Ruo Yan can also make inside arrangements. However, if he doesn’t have a strong army for support, he will definitely not charge into Fan Jia.

MY: You’re completely right, Prime Minister. According to the news we secretly obtained and the timing of when our campsite was ambushed, Ruo Yan indeed did not return to the capital of Li Kingdom, instead he headed straight to Fan Jia’s borders from Yong Yin after hearing the news of

Long Tian’s death. On the other side, Li Kingdom’s military army quickly mobilized, heading towards Fan Jia’s borders, just in time to join up with Ruo Yan’s troops.

After hearing about politics, Lie Er was somewhat awake and added in his thoughts, “The people of Fan Jia are so pitiful. After a cruel wolf like Long Tian pa.s.sed away, they attracted yet another ruthless wolf like Ruo Yan lurking at the borders.”

“Once Ruo Yan is in Fan Jia, it’ll be hard for them to protect themselves.” One soldier named Qian Lin also lamented loudly.

LZL: (asking Mian Ya) You said that Li Kingdom’s military army quickly mobilized and headed towards Fan Jia’s borders. Ruo Yan wasn’t in Li Kingdom at the time so who made the decision to send the military army to the borders?

MY: This...we haven’t confirmed who made the decision, but according to our guesses, it must be Princess Miao Guang.

LZL: (shook his head as he laughed) Even though Miao Guang is more intelligent than the average person, she is still a woman who is not accustomed to warfare and would not have the power to control the military army. This decision is something she would not dare to be involved in unless...Ruo Yan had already ordered her to do so. Once Long Tian is dead, she has to quickly send military army to the borders of Fan Jia. However, wouldn’t this conclude that Long Tian’s death was arranged by Ruo Yan?

Feng Ming clarified to Lie Zhong Liu that the death of Long Tian was due to his mother, Lady Yao Ye’s poison and had nothing to do with Ruo Yan. Lie Zhong Liu nodded his head since he also heard a bit about Feng Ming’s background, but he didn’t say anything further.

RT: Does Prime Minister feel something is wrong?

LZL: The mobilization of the army cannot be by Ruo Yan, and definitely cannot be Princess Miao Guang, so who can it be...

MY: Ruo Yan’s closest confidant is General Zhuo Ran. His influence in the military army is just as great, could it be him?

LZL: General Zhuo Ran’s age and influence meets qualification, but he is too calm and cautious to make a definite decision. If he’s in charge, Li Kingdom’s army will not immediately mobilize to Fan Jia’s borders in time to join up with Ruo Yan’s troops.

FM: Who could it be? Not only is this person highly trusted by Ruo Yan, but he can command Li Kingdom’s army. A person who understands Ruo Yan’s mind and is extremely talented.

That year when Ruo Yan imprisoned him, Feng Ming had met all of Li Kingdom’s trusted soldiers and generals, but there was no such person who left that kind of impression.

RT: If you can’t figure it out, it’s fine. No need to worry about it. If it’s an enemy, we will eventually face him, so don’t worry that we might not meet him.

MY: It’s because your subordinate is useless and didn’t look over everything. I will quickly send people to find this out.

LZL: (smiled at him) Yue Zhong is a secluded place. For you to find out about these news quickly is already not an easy thing to do.

Mian Ya’s impression of Lie Zhong Liu immediately raised higher in admiration. Rong Hu quickly drew the conversation back to the main topic of departing for Xi Lei the next day.

Lie Zhong Liu had already thought of an answer, but did not reply immediately. He placed the dishes of food that had gone cold to one side of the table. Chiu Lan picked up the dishes and cleaned the tabled before Lie Zhong Liu pulled out something from his sleeves and asked everyone to have a look.

It was a detailed map of the 11 kingdoms that Lie Zhong Liu drew.

LZL: This is a map that I drew during my spare time today. There wasn’t much time so it’s not carefully drawn. Also, I haven’t traveled to Dan Lin so I only could wrote in the Eastern Sea and Strait since I’m unsure of where Dan Lin is located.

Feng Ming finally realized why he didn’t see Lie Zhong Liu when he went to invite Wei Chiu Niang. Apparently, he hid away to do this instead.

Lie Zhong Liu pointed at Xi Lei on the maps and said, “The southwestern border of Xi Lei faces the sea, and Xi Lei also borders Tong Kingdom, Yong Yin, and Zhao Bei. Judging by the size of Xi Lei’s territory, only Li Kingdom can compare with it.”

LZL: (glancing around at everyone) Do you all know what is the difference between Li Kingdom and Xi Lei?

Lie Er spoke first, “Xi Lei King is talented and benevolent, Li King is ruthless and cruel. Two different kings, of course would have two different kingdoms.”

LZL: Our Xi Lei King is currently wandering in a foreign land, the throne is not even in his hands. At this point, what’s the meaning of being talented and benevolent?

Zi Yan carefully examined the map and replied, “Apart from the territorial differences, the barren and fertile land, along with the distribution of forests, mountains, and wetlands are different. What Prime Minister is trying to say is that Li Kingdom has more plains while Xi Lei has more mountains? If it comes to harvesting, Li Kingdom would be the more powerful one.

Qian Lin added in a few words, “But ever since Xi Lei used the irrigation technique by Duke Ming, the harvesting had greatly increased. This aspect should not be a problem.”

RH: Can Prime Minister give us a little hint? LZL: Just look at the map.

They have already seen the map and did not find anything new. Within a short moment, the whole room was silent.

Lie Zhong Liu noticed that no one was saying anything, he glanced over at Feng Ming and chuckled, “I would like to hear Duke Ming’s take on this.”

“Ha? Me again?” Feng Ming pointed at his nose.

Seeing Lie Zhong Liu’s nod, Feng Ming grimaced. Oh G.o.d...are these riddle games still not done yet? He just barely pa.s.sed one today and was still feeling terrified about these riddle games.

If he...answered incorrectly...he won’t be punished, right?

He looked down at Lie Zhong Liu’s map and thought for a long while but still couldn’t come up with any astounding answer. He glanced over at Lie Zhong Liu and seeing how patient he looked waiting for an answer, Feng Ming knew he couldn’t stall much longer.

FM: I think...um...that...Xi Lei resides at the border of the sea and Li Kingdom does not; instead, it is surrounded by different kingdoms.

No one could blame him for coming up with a casual answer that everyone there already knew about. If he was as great as the rumors, then he would have been Prime Minister already.

However, unexpectedly Lie Zhong Liu clapped his hands and happily smiled, “It really does appear that only Duke Ming can think of this. Haha, the biggest difference between Xi Lei and Li Kingdom is this one point.”

This time, not only was Feng Ming wide-eyed and open mouth, everyone else present were also surprised.

LZL: Those that border Xi Lei are only three kingdoms and within those three, only Tong Kingdom has a tense relations.h.i.+p with Xi Lei. As we speak about Tong Kingdom, there was a wonderful thing that occurred not long ago.

Qian Lin: I know, Prime Minister is talking about the a.s.sa.s.sination of Qing Ding, the King of Tong Kingdom. After the death of Qing Ding, the situation within Tong Kingdom must be chaotic. Tong Kingdom will definitely not threaten Xi Lei at this time.

LZL: You’re correct. Can I ask for this young general’s name? QL: My name is Qian Lin, I bid my respect to Prime Minister.

LZL: Qian Lin.... (Lie Zhong Liu memorized his name and continued explaining) Therefore, Xi Lei does not need to be concerned about its welfare at the moment.

FM: You’re correct. However, Prime Minister, if the neighboring nations were to invade then would we still not be concerned?

LZL: The problem Duke Ming stated is really good, but I will not answer it at the moment. Speaking of Li Kingdom, it does not border the sea but is a nation completely on land. All four directions are surrounded by nations such as Yong Yin, Bo Jian, Bei Qi, Dong Fan, Pu Rong, Yan Ting, and Fan Jia.

CL: (counting with her fingers) Ah, so there are 7 different nations, right?

RT: Haha, Prime Minister is amazing! Even though the 11 kingdoms have been in dispute for a long time, they would declare war and then stop and then declare war again. Those who are defeated will have to put out a heavy offer or cede their land. There has never been a kingdom that was completely annexed by the neighboring nation. Once Ruo Yan actually overtakes Fan Jia, the other remaining six nations will have a violent reaction.

FM: That’s right! It makes sense! Those six kingdoms will definitely be worried that Ruo Yan will take over them as well so they must try to take action first, joining together and fighting against Li Kingdom, that must be why Ruo Yan is vexed over this. That year, the State of Qin also was like that and therefore created an alliance like...Ah...haha, you all don’t need to pay attention to the last sentence I said.

RT: So Prime Minister believes that once Ruo Yan received Fan Jia in hand, his power will increase, but the consequence will be ma.s.sive. Just dealing with the strength of Fan Jia will be difficult, but also dealing with the other six nations who are fighting in order to protect themselves will cause Li Kingdom to lose a lot of strength.

After a.n.a.lyzing the situation and coming to the conclusion that Xi Lei is fairly in a safe position, Rong Tian realized that Lie Zhong Liu did not agree for them to head back to Xi Lei at this time.

Feng Ming was shocked as he believed that since Ruo Yan does not have much power to deal with Xi Lei at this moment then they should take the opportunity to retake the throne.

This time the person that Lie Zhong Liu had his eyes set on, Qian Lin answered.

QL: If the Great King does not a hold a position, then the other smaller nations will put Li Kingdom as their priority to defeat. However, if our Great King were to return to his rightful place on the throne, not only will the world be fearful, they will join their forces together to deal with Li Kingdom and also Xi Lei. Does Prime Minister want the other kingdoms to make way for Xi Lei, and diminish the strength of Li Kingdom?

Everyone was mentioning how smarter Rong Tian was in lurking behind the scenes and waiting for the perfect moment until all the kingdoms are tired and worn out from fighting that he will overtake all of them.

Lie Zhong Liu told all of them that they are wrong.

LZL: It isn’t that your Great King is better than Ruo Yan, but he was fortunate enough to meet me. (very prideful, huh?)

FM: Then Rong Tian should not return to Xi Lei?

LZL: If His Majesty were to depart for Xi Lei tomorrow, with his talent in strategizing, sending secret troops to contact those still loyal to him within the palace of Xi Lei, along with my a.s.sistance, I believe that within 15 days we can retake the capital of Xi Lei and regain the throne back. If that’s the case, the battle of Xi Lei will lose a lot of troops and will damage part of the city’s defense. Not only that, His Majesty will have to clean up the mess after the battle, appease those who oppose him and have to rely on the remaining troops to defend from the three neighboring nations who will join forces to suppress Xi Lei’s expansion.

“Once that happens, we will be no different than Ruo Yan.”

LE: We’ll spare Tong Er for the moment, since allowing him to sit on the throne for several more days will not be a huge deal. However, isn’t Prime Minister afraid that the longer he sits on the throne, the more stable he will be? Then when our Great King returns, the situation would be more difficult?

LZL: There’s no foreign invasion, but there’ll be worries within. Rong Tong previously occupied the throne, the thing that worries him the most is His Majesty’s return. Therefore, he will rely on the n.o.bles’ power, hoping to gain support from them. But if His Majesty were to disappear out of sight, then he can breathe a bit easier. The first thing he’ll do would be to deal with the n.o.bles and build up a group of trusted men.

CL: That would be bad. If he uses this opportunity to replace the officials in courts with his own group of people, then they will definitely oppose our Great King. Then wouldn’t those who are loyal to His Majesty, who are our informants, be completely gone? At that point, wouldn’t our power be diminished?

CY/CX: That’s right! That would be dangerous! So terrifying!

Lie Zhong Liu loved to tease them and seeing them like that, he chuckled, “Is it really terrifying? Little Beauties, come over here and let me hold your hands a bit then I will tell you a way to avoid this terrifying event.”

Rong Tian already understood what Lie Zhong Liu had in mind, but did not bother to say it aloud.

CY/CX: I don’t want to. You are already a Prime Minister, why are you still bullying a maid? A high status official should act in a dignified manner; you can’t just leave us hanging. Hurry and say it, what is the method of avoiding this terrifying event?

Unexpectedly, Lie Zhong Liu was very compliant as he placed his hands on his hips, displaying a dignified manner but did not say anything.

Chiu Lan saw that so she slowly walked over to Lie Zhong Liu’s side and said gently, “Prime Minister, what you said just now is very interesting, making me very curious. How about if I let you hold my hand, will you continue to explain for us?

Lie Zhong Liu was a bit stunned for awhile, seeing a delicate, white, smooth small hand held in front of his eyes...his heart was trembling...and he felt a bit embarra.s.sed as he quickly laughed in reply, “If you want to hear, I will quickly tell you everything.” He didn’t even bother to touch that small delicate hand.

“Not fair, not fair!” Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing protested loudly.

Chiu Lan withdrew her hand and gratefully smiled at Lie Zhong Liu.

Lie Zhong Liu picked up a cup along with a jug of wine and poured himself a cup, “First off, because of the person sitting on throne, Rong Tong, we’ll give him a toast.”

LZL: If the person sitting on the throne is Ruo Yan or the veteran general Tong Jian Min, then the situation will not be as interesting. But because Rong Tong is the one sitting on the throne, the situation is quite interesting. Rong Tong is still a young n.o.ble and will not handle matters with sophistication. With his experience in governing, the people will not be satisfied. I’m afraid that the more involved he is in, the more chaos he will bring.

CHAPTER 4

Rong Hu: He is that type of person. He acts willfully, is very impatient and does things when he is in the mood. Once he’s in power, I don’t know how many dreadful things he will do. Later, whenever the officials are disliked by him, they will live in fear every day and will miss the days that Our Majesty had once ruled. Then when he is ostracized by them, he will be much easier to deal with.

CY: What will happen afterwards?

LZL: Afterwards.... (he paused and smiled) What happens afterwards, Duke Ming will tell you.

FM: Ha? Me again?

He had tried hard to obediently stand still without saying anything so how did a problem like a rock fell on top of his head like this?

LZL: Duke Ming?

FM: Ummmm....afterwards?? Give me some time to think, haha...a bit more.

Feng Ming tried hard to think but couldn’t come up with anything, he secretly kicked Rong Tian’s foot who was standing idle next to him. He whispered, “Hey, so what happens afterward?”

RT: “Yang Zhang”

This....why does it feel as if you’re sleeping in cla.s.s and the teacher calls on you to provide an answer.

FM: Ah!~~ I know now, it is...Yang Zhang!

Although he didn’t hear clearly, but the answer Rong Tian gave should be right. LZL: Yang Zhang?

Lie Zhong Liu was not very clear with this new term and requested Feng Ming to explain further. FM: Ha? Explain it? Uh...give me a little more time.

Luckily, Feng Ming already guessed earlier and stood behind Rong Hu so he didn’t have to worry about his little action being discovered. He again kicked Rong Tian on the foot and whispered softly, “Hey, what is Yang Zhang?”

Rong Tian was kicked twice by him and was not angry one bit. He turned his head and with a hateful smile, he replied sweetly with a deep voice, “If you agree for us to try the new “Yang Chang” tonight, I will help you answer this.” (Yang Chang: the sheep gut condom – maybe I’ll just use condom instead of sheep gut or sheep intestine...)

Feng Ming almost sprayed a mouthful of blood onto his face.

Perverted devil!

LZL: Duke Ming?

RT: In addition, the second weakness of Rong Tong is that he has not made any military accomplishment; therefore, does not a hold any prestige within Xi Lei army. In order to be a King of a nation, he has to firmly grasp military and political power in hand. Tong Er isn’t familiar with politics and military power is also not entirely in his hands. He cannot even grasp one of them fully in his hands so even if he sits high on the throne, he will meet with disaster.

ZY: That’s right, most of the military power should belong to his uncle, Tong Jian Min. If Rong Tong wants to grasp the military power in hand, then he and his uncle will surely dispute over it.

FM: Oh! No wonder last time at the camp, you agreed to spare Tong Jian Min and let him go. Just like that, you have left Tong Er with a tough opponent. First, allowing them to fight each other and then we’ll deal with them when the time comes. Ah, it’s great that you’ve thought ahead. I was feeling strange about it since it was hard to capture a great general and then releasing him so easily.

RT: Shame on me. I released Tong Jian Min because I’m familiar with his defensive strategy. So if in the future when we want to attack, we will hold an advantage. The Prime Minister is the one who has been thinking ahead.

So after reaching the conclusion that Rong Tong sitting on the throne will not cause them any trouble, the group dissolved.

Zi Yan and Qian Lin headed out to continue with their duty of guarding the area. Lie Zhong Liu left.

Lie Er drank heavily and was tipsy. Rong Hu scolded him, stating that since Yong Yi is not here to look after him, Lie Er went overboard with the drinking. Though drunk, Lie Er told Rong Hu to head back with Chiu Lan.

Feng Ming ordered Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing to follow Lie Er back to his room and make sure he’s alright.

Once everyone was gone, Rong Tian turned to look at Feng Ming and smiled at him. RT: Now it’s time for Duke Ming to repay me.

FM: Repay what? (trying to act dumb)

RT: Repay me for helping answer the question.

FM: I haven’t agreed.

RT: Then you’re not willing to comply with the promise?

FM: Rong Tian, if it’s a new condom, then can I wear it this time? You already got to wear it once, I haven’t worn it yet.

Feng Ming blinked his big round eyes a few times, with a look of antic.i.p.ation.

Rong Tian pinched his smooth cheeks and laughed, “That was made according to my size. If you wear it, won’t it be too loose and immediately fall off?”

FM: Nonsense! Comparing to yours, mine is bigger!

Feng Ming was so angry his cheeks were red, knowing that his words were quite exaggerated.

FM: Even though it can’t compare to yours, but the condom is flexible, so how can it be loose? Are you calling me an idiot, believing that I never saw a sheep gut before?

RT: Who would dare to call you an idiot?

After finis.h.i.+ng, he didn’t allow Feng Ming to continue speaking nonsense as he picked him up and carried him over his shoulder, both heading straight to the bedroom.

CHAPTER 5

The results proved that Rong Tian was wise and brave in bed as he was on the battlefield.

No matter how famous Duke Ming was in using tricks and cheeky tactics, he still suffered a crus.h.i.+ng defeat under Rong Tian’s tender advances. It was hard to avoid another night of lovemaking and once again he experienced a different unique sensation of having the condom inside his body.

Fortunately, the new condom was greatly improved and was no longer falling off during movement again.

After the intense physical labor, both of them felt a slight numbness throughout their body, just like floating on the clouds. They continued to pant heavily, lying side by side, and enjoying the subtle pleasure of each other skin contact.

In a short moment, Feng Ming opened his large eyes and stared at the wooden carving on the head of the bed as if he was concentrating intently about something. He suddenly said, “Our Prime Minister is quite capable.”

Rong Tian swatted heavily at Feng Ming’s bottom and said angrily, “How dare you mention another man’s name at this time.”

Feng Ming lazily turned over, choosing the most comfortable position; he placed one of his legs across Rong Tian’s body and laughed, “So you do get jealous. It’s understandable. Lie Zhong Liu is very skillful, handsome and has a pleasant temper. You should be worried.”

The naked young man next to him was like a sparkling jade that was carefully carved out. His undulating curves in the dark, looming in front of him couldn’t resist Rong Tian from using his hand to caress the lovely b.u.t.tocks and gleefully praised, “So smooth.”

Feng Ming’s body became weak under his touch; a burst of numbness was felt from his lower back. He gently bit his lips as he fell against Rong Tian’s broad strong chest.

“Who did you said was more skillful than me? More handsome and had a pleasant temper?” Rong Tian deliberately asked.

Feng Ming laughed in a low inaudible tone.

Rong Tian snorted coldly as he aggressively stroked the cute little object located between the two small jewels with the tips of his fingers in a sliding motion. He purposely abandoned the small opening that was contracting nervously inside.

This body, Rong Tian understood it even more than Feng Ming.

Not for long, Feng Ming’s eyes was in a daze, exposing an unbearable pathetic expression. Rong Tian was very hateful since he refused to move his fingers further down a notch.

“Hey!”

“Ah?” Rong Tian leisurely glanced at him.

Feng Ming’s heart was beating faster, his breathing became rapid and his legs were weakened. Lying supine, he held onto Rong Tian closely, waiting to be filled with tender love. Rong Tian still had a calm expression. Feng Ming couldn’t wait any longer as he lifted his bottom half against Rong Tian’s chest. Arching for a while, he not only did not get a reaction from Rong Tian, but instead the area below his abdomen was burning up under the pressure. He opened his mouth to let out a moan before biting the small red b.u.mp on Rong Tian’s chest.

“Ah!” Rong Tian laughed in excitement„ “Just a while ago, who said that he didn’t want to continue again tonight?”

Feng Ming was embarra.s.sed, he couldn’t resist and softly punched Rong Tian’s pillow as he fiercely threatened him, “Hurry up and do it, don’t be wordy! Otherwise, you’ll end up like this pillow!”

Rong Tian didn’t want him to continue mouthing on so he turned Feng Ming around, lying p.r.o.ne on the bed and tucked the pillow underneath Feng Ming.

He patted Feng Ming’s lovely b.u.t.tocks, issuing a crisp “flapping” sound as he arrogantly asked, “Who did you just say was jealous?”

“Are you planning on bruising my b.u.t.t?” Feng Ming wailed out loud.

“Alright, alright, I won’t hit it, I won’t hurt you.” Rong Tian had another intention in mind, “But I can touch it, right?” Indeed, Rong Tian no longer slapped Feng Ming’s b.u.t.tocks, but instead used another type of torture, stroking the area.

Rong Tian’s touch and examination caused Feng Ming to inhale a cold breath of air, still moving his waist in anxiety. The same sensation was felt, using the remaining body fluids from the pa.s.sionate intercourse from a while ago, the entrance swallowed the foreign object inside, reaching straight to the hilt.

Pleasure and pain overflowed at once as Feng Ming cried out.

Rong Tian continued thrusting while he let out a mischievous smile, “Ah, Lie Zhong Liu is not bad. If it wasn’t for his proposal, then we would be departing tomorrow. How would we have a chance to enjoy this moment?”

Feng Ming could feel the fiery rampage through his entire body. The thought of Lie Zhong Liu was long forgotten when he closed both of his eyes tightly and he moaned inconsistently underneath Rong Tian....

====

The next morning, it was inevitable that his entire lower back was in pain. But last night, it was him who had boldly initiated and pleaded to Rong Tian. Therefore, Feng Ming silently endured the consequences of his over-indulgence.

Chiu Lan, Chiu Xing, and Chiu Yue came to serve them as usual in their grooming and dressing. Feng Ming suddenly remembered about Lie Er and asked Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing about him.

Chiu Xing’s face grew bright red, her lips pressed tightly together without saying anything.

Chiu Yue replied, “Last night, he drank so much, he was walking unsteadily. The two of us accompanied him back to his room, placed him onto the bed and helped wash his face with water before leaving. Rong Hu said he was afraid Lie Er might drink some more. Last night, I secretly checked up on him and indeed he was still awake. His hand was still holding a bottle of wine he had stolen from who knows where. I had to persuade him many times before he agreed to hand over the bottle to me and go to sleep. Lie Er was too stubborn, if Prince Yong Yi was here, perhaps he would be more obedient.”

Chiu Yue suddenly covered her mouth, still laughing hysterically as her whole body trembled.

Feng Ming and Chiu Lan were surprised, “Chiu Yue, what are you laughing about?”

“Chiu Xing, she....”

“Chiu Yue, if you dare to say anything, I’ll hit you!” Chiu Xing’s face was bright red as she quickly grabbed her pigtail in her hands and gave a warning stare at Chiu Yue.

Chiu Yue wasn’t afraid of the warning as she sneered back, “If you beg me, then I might be able to hide it for you, but since you threatened, I really want to say it.”

Feng Ming anxiously asked, “So what is it exactly?”

Chiu Yue loudly replied, “Last night, Chiu Xing was hugged by Lie Er and even kissed by him!” Everyone’s curiosity rose as they eagerly questioned about the overall situation.

Chiu Yue triumphantly spoke, “Last night when we accompanied Lie Er back to his room, Chiu Xing helped make the bed and I went outside to get the water for his face wash. I didn’t expect that when I came back, I saw Lie Er hugging Chiu Xing tightly.”

Chiu Xing angrily stomp her foot, “Chiu Yue, you’re dead meat! You shut up, shut up! You better watch out for I’ll tell everyone about you!”

“Ha, what’s there to say about me?” As Chiu Yue retold about the exciting part, she began acting out the gestures, “Lie Er was holding onto to Chiu Xing like this and was desperately saying, ‘I beg you, I beg you.’ Chiu Xing was hugged tightly by him that she didn’t dare to fight back. She was so scared, she yelled out, ‘Let go, hurry up and let go. I’m not Yong Yi, I’m not Yong Yi!’”

“Who said I wouldn’t dare hit him, I just didn’t want to.” At this time, Chiu Xing was helping Feng Ming with his clothes, but she left his sleeves hanging as she rushed over to Chiu Yue and gave her a kick.

Chiu Yue dodged the kick and continued to chuckle, “Yes, yes, he was holding you so tightly, that you weren’t able to hit him.” Her pet.i.te figure suddenly ran across the room and hid behind Feng Ming to avoid Chiu Xing’s retaliation.

FM: You two are very bold, using me as a s.h.i.+eld. CL: What happened afterwards?

CY: What happened afterwards was interesting, Lie Er was getting emotional, saying ‘You’re not Yong Yi, of course you’re not Yong Yi. Who said you were Yong Yi?’ He continued yelling out which gave us all a shock. Chiu Xing, you heard him. Lie Er was clearly aware of the situation, he obviously knew the person he was holding was you and not Prince Yong Yi.

Feng Ming held the sisters’ hands tightly and asked what happened next.

Chiu Yue laughed, “And then while he was holding Chiu Xing tightly, he gave her a kiss on her lips.”

“Not true, not true! He just leaned his head over. I quickly blocked him and he just touched his lips on my hand.” Chiu Xing was embarra.s.sed while trying to quickly dissolved the situation.

“What do you mean touch your hand?” Just then, a voice suddenly traveled forth.

Lie Er, Rong Hu, and Zi Yan suddenly appeared at the door.

With the new appearance of the group, the atmosphere became more lively.

As if she had found solid proof, Chiu Yue pointed at Lie Er’s nose, “Hurry and admit it, Lie Er. Last night, you obviously held Chiu Xing and kissed her on the lips.”

Chiu Xing whined at the accusation, “No, it’s not true. Chiu Yue is making things up! Lie Er, hurry and clarify the situation.”

Lie Er had just gotten over his hangover, his beautiful eyes were a bit swollen, but he was still the same as usual, lively and carefree. Just listening to the two sisters for a bit, he already knew what they were fighting about. He chuckled, “Being hugged and kissed by a handsome man like me is a blessing you don’t encounter in three lifetimes. Come here, Chiu Yue. Don’t you want to have a piece of this blessing as well?” After finis.h.i.+ng, he stretched out his arms towards Chiu Yue and ran over to her.

Chiu Yue screamed as she turned and fled from him.

Chiu Xing was standing behind her so she mischievously pushed her into the direction of Lie Er.

Lie Er accepted the “gift” with open arms as he embraced Chiu Yue tightly, he gave a smirk and leaned his head over the horrified face of Chiu Yue. He gave a fierce “popping” kiss and loudly praised, “Not bad, not bad. It seems normal at first glance, but once kissed, it’s quite smooth. That’s right, Zi Yan,” Lie Er turned around to face Zi Yan and asked, “Do you want to have a try?”

“Don’t, don’t!” Chiu Yue almost burst into tears.

“I declare everyone to stop, are you done causing trouble now?” Still sitting quietly to the side, Rong Tian finally spoke up, “Chiu Yue, Chiu Xing, quickly prepare Feng Ming’s clothes. Chiu Lan, quickly bring over the morning meal. Lie Er, quit stirring up trouble and stand to the side while reflecting on your behavior for me. Zi Yan, if there is something to report, please say it.”

ZY: After arriving at Yue Zhong, one of the spies I’ve sent had came back. He had met with Empress Dowager at the designated secret location. Coincidentally, Empress Dowager had just arrived there. According to her, after Your Majesty was no longer on the s.h.i.+p, the route of Aman River did not have any more blockage. But in order to avoid the disclosure of the trail, Empress Dowager disembarked and came ash.o.r.e, disguised herself and continued traveling on the road. Even though they were traveling on land, it was a smooth trip compared to ours. They were able to use the horse carriage; therefore, they quickly arrived at the designated location.

Thinking about his huge family a.s.sets, Feng Ming interrupted Zi Yan, “Then what happened to the fleet of s.h.i.+ps?”

ZY: The fleet of s.h.i.+ps continued traveling along the Aman River under Luo Deng’s instruction. Duke Ming doesn’t need to worry. The Holy Master Xiao is a person with frightening reputation. As long as His Majesty is not aboard the s.h.i.+p, with no important political figure involved, no one would dare to provoke a fleet of s.h.i.+ps owned by the Xiao family and offend the Holy Master.

RT: Empress Dowager still doesn’t know that our plans have changed.

“That’s right. Therefore, I have sent someone to give this message to Her Majesty.”

After listening to Zi Yan’s report, Rong Hu was a bit puzzled, “If the new Prince of Yong Yin knew that we have boarded the s.h.i.+p and purposely threw the rocks into the river to disrupt us then why after we came ash.o.r.e, the fleet of s.h.i.+ps no longer encountered obstacles? If he is cohering with Rong Tong, then he had to stop the s.h.i.+ps at any cost.”

When Rong Hu finished saying that, Feng Ming also realized something.

“That’s right, it’s really strange!” Feng Ming felt startled, “Could it be that he knew we had left the s.h.i.+ps?”

Rong Tian shook his head, “Yong Quan could not have known about that. Not just that, this fool probably didn’t know our whereabouts let alone place rocks obstructing our fleet of s.h.i.+ps. If he was a wise man, then that year, Lie Er wouldn’t have allowed him to sit on top of Prince Yong Yi’s throne.

FM: If it’s not Yong Quan, then who could it be?

RT: Who else could it be? (Rong Tian gave a wry smile).

FM: Who?

Rong Tian let out a helpless sigh, motioning his finger for Feng Ming to come. Feng Ming just finished dressing so he obediently walked up next to him.

RT: Use your simple minded little head and think about it. How did we arrive at Yue Zhong? Who was the one who had the knowledge and carefully planned everything, bringing this small remote defensible city within our hands?

FM: It couldn’t be Lie Zhong Liu, could it?

“What did Duke Ming said about it couldn’t be me?” A vibrant voice came from behind.

Feng Ming was scared that he suddenly turned around; the handsome face of Lie Zhong Liu fell within his sight.

It’s true that in the daytime, you shouldn’t mention the person and at night time you shouldn’t mention ghosts —- Indeed when you mention Cao Cao, Cao Cao really arrives.

LZL: What did Duke Ming just said about me? Feng Ming coughed loudly.

Lie Er answered on behalf of Feng Ming, “Duke Ming wanted to ask, at Aman River the person who threw the rocks into the river couldn’t have been Prime Minister, could it?”

LZL: Ah, so that’s what this is about. Of course it was me.

FM: If Prime Minister didn’t want us to travel by water route, then why didn’t you tell us directly? You have great persuasion skills so I believe everyone would be convinced by you. Why did you have to resort to a disruptive method? Making us believe that our whereabouts were exposed. Not only did this hinder our travel but other vessels will be concerned as well.

LZL: Doesn’t Duke Ming think that this is more interesting? You don’t need to worry about other vessels. Xiao family’s cargo s.h.i.+ps have a deeper draft than the other s.h.i.+ps; therefore, the other vessels will not be trapped by the boulders within the river. I have already calculated this.”

ZY: This isn’t right. During that time, Prime Minister was still on the s.h.i.+p and never left my sight. How could Prime Minister have arranged for the boulders underneath the riverbed?

LZL: I have already arranged them earlier. My guess was very exact. Apart from Xi Lei, where else would you go? The day before, I ordered someone to place the rocks there and rode a horse along the sh.o.r.e, waiting for you to pa.s.s by.

LE: (laughed) That is really interesting. Come here, let me give you a hug to show my admiration. Lie Er held out his arms in hope to give Lie Zhong Liu a warm hug.

Lie Zhong Liu’s face became pale. He desperately flung the arms away, “No, no. I have always been an up-right person and dislike touching hands and feet...”

Everyone was surprised for a moment, regarding Lie Zhong Liu’s reaction.

With other people, it’s understandable, but with Lie Zhong Liu who is a hopeless romantic and beauty hungry pervert, as long as someone is pleasing to his eyes, he would eagerly hug that person without hesitation.

How come he suddenly had a change of personality?

Being rejected by Lie Zhong Liu, Lie Er sneered, “Alright, we won’t touch hands and feet so we’ll use a different method. Kissing should be fine then.” After finis.h.i.+ng, his thin red lips puckered up as they advanced forward.

RT: Lie Er, quit stirring up trouble.

Lie Er shuddered and didn’t dare to joke around anymore. Feng Ming gently told Lie Er to come over and sit next to him, which he did.

Chiu Lan prepared the morning meal and brought it over to them. Feng Ming asked if everyone had ate. Lie Er shook his head. Rong Hu was silent. Zi Yan ate some gruel earlier.

LZL: I have already eaten, but seeing these delicious dishes, I can’t help but feel a bit hungry.

FM: If that’s so then no matter if you ate or not, everyone can eat this meal together and converse. Chiu Lan, bring over some more chairs and tea over here.

CL: Aiya! I only thought His Majesty and Duke Ming would eat the meal. The dishes are not many as I don’t think we’ll have enough for everyone. It seems that I will need to make a bit more.

Chiu Lan quickly rushed outside the room with the other two maids and headed straight for the kitchen.

Chiu Xing and Chiu Yue immediately brought over more tables.

LE: These heavy tasks, how can I let the women take care of it, allow me to help you.

Lie Er brought over the chair he was currently sitting on.

Zi Yan and Rong Hu also took action and brought over tables and chairs.

Feng Ming looked at his weak hands, straightened himself up as he said, “I also need to be a gentleman.” He carried the chair he was sitting on towards the direction of the dining room.

If he hadn’t carried the chair, he would have not known how heavy it was. Feng Ming realized he shouldn’t have ordered Chiu Lan to bring some more chairs over.

Lie Zhong Liu was still sitting, leisurely watching everyone carrying the chairs and tables. He didn’t say anything as if waiting for something.

In a short moment, Rong Tian also stood up.

Rong Hu, Zi Yan, and Lie Er quickly rushed over to him, but Rong Tian waved his hand dismissively and asked, “Could it be that a King like myself can’t even carry a chair?”

He pulled up his sleeves and carried the chair and table over.

The corner of Lie Zhong Liu’s lips curved upward but did not said anything, still sitting like a solid rock.

Rong Hu and everyone else saw him like that, they went over and asked him to move aside.

“Prime Minister, the dining room does not have enough seating, I request for you to move about. Once we’re done, you can continue sitting.”

“Ah?...” Lie Zhong Liu nodded his head as he casually commanded, “Tell Duke Ming to come here and move it.”

Feng Ming had just moved the chair he was sitting and was still breathing heavily. Hearing Lie Zhong Liu suddenly call out for him, he lifted his head up and stared at him wide-eyed.

Thinking a bit, he obediently went over and nodded his head, “No worries, I’ll carry it over.” Once more, he pulled up his sleeves.

Feeling a bit disgruntled, Rong Hu shouted out, “Duke Ming...” “Allow me to carry it.” A voice from behind was heard.

Rong Tian had came back from the dining room. He also pulled back his sleeves and stepped forward in front of Lie Zhong Liu.

“Ha ha ha ha ha...!” Lie Zhong Liu suddenly laughed loudly. He stood up, with one hand holding onto the back of the chair and the other rubbing his belly, laughing without any manners.

Seeing him laugh, everyone looked at each other in confusion. They didn’t know what wrong nerve the Prime Minister had plucked.

Everyone was still not over the shock when Lie Zhong Liu suddenly stopped laughing and exhaled a long sigh.

Feng Ming looked at him strangely and carefully lay out his question, “Prime Minister, why did you suddenly laughed and then suddenly sighed?”

Lie Zhong Liu stared deeply into the flawless eyes, his lips revealing a wry smile, “I was laughing at the G.o.d’s will.”

“The G.o.d’s will?”

What kind of mysterious answer is this?

Feng Ming scratched his head in curiosity.

“It is the G.o.d’s will that brought Duke Ming and Xi Lei King together.” “Ah.” Feng Ming nodded his head in agreement.

Chapter 6

If it wasn’t for G.o.d’s will, then how would his soul have drifted into the body of the fake Crown Prince of Xi Lei – An He.

If it wasn’t for the help of the G.o.ds, then he would never have met and loved Rong Tian nor would they be together again despite countless obstacles.

Feng Ming expressed a sense of happiness, while Lie Zhong Liu was shaking his head at the other end. He faced Feng Ming and said, “Duke Ming seems to not understand what I mean.”

“I understand.”

“When I said ‘G.o.d’s Will,’ I meant to talk about the consequences of Xi Lei King and Duke Ming’s encounter.”

This sentence seems a bit familiar...

Feng Ming suddenly remembered that time when he knew Rong Tian won’t have an heir to the throne and that Tong Er would inherit it, he had said, “The two of us together will bring a very serious consequence.” The result of that conversation provoked Rong Tian; he was furious and gave him the cold shoulder for some time.

This time...could Lie Zhong Liu also feel the same way....

Feng Ming felt uncomfortable as he glanced over at Rong Tian, he slightly smiled as he said, “This...shouldn’t have any consequences, right?”

Please, don’t ever say that two men being together will not be for a long term.

Otherwise, whether or not you are Xi Lei’s Prime Minister, Rong Tian will be very upset with you.

I will also be...

Zi Yan frowned at the conversation and directly spoke, “If there is something Prime Minister would like to say, please do so.”

Lie Zhong Liu smiled as he responded, “If Duke Ming was not with him, even if Xi Lei King has great ambitions, he may not have such a broad vision, with a plan to conquer the world.” His long slender finger pointed toward the dining room, “Just by observing the moving chairs situation just now, I dare to say, the Grace Order, no matter where the origin of it is from, it was definitely created because of Duke Ming. This is because compared to Xi Lei King, Duke Ming’s trait of fairness is very special.”

Rong Tian silently agreed with this one point.

Feng Ming had never judged people on their cla.s.s or origin, which is different from the n.o.bles from the eleven kingdoms. In his eyes, he rarely takes noticed of the label and birth status of a person.

In the past, when Feng Ming was in the meeting hall, if he was not against the majority and didn’t give his proposal of electing people beyond n.o.ble status, giving Rong Tian a huge realization, then perhaps the Grace Order would not have been created.

Lie Zhong Liu’s guess was not mistaken, the Grace Order, was indeed because of Feng Ming.

“That is ...obvious.” Feng Ming knew Lie Zhong Liu had no plans of saying something unpleasant so he was a bit relieved. After hearing his words of praise, Feng Ming was very pleased as he straightened himself up, “I am a very fair person. If Prime Minister needs to find someone to justify something in the future, you can come speak with me.”

Feng Ming’s smug expression was extremely cute that everyone along with Lie Zhong Liu couldn’t hold back their laughter.

Rong Tian pulled him to the side, pinched his nose and chuckled a bit as he scolded, “You’re getting carried away.”

“Just now you said only half of it, what is the other half?”

Once the laughter ceased, Lie Zhong Liu slowly explained, “If Duke Ming did not meet Xi Lei King, then the consequences would be even more worrisome.”

FM: What’s there to worry about?

LZL: White is the cleanest of all the colors, but is also the most likely to be contaminated and damaged. If Xi Lei King was not beside him then Duke Ming would no longer retain himself. Please think about it, Duke Ming, if you were to grow up in a different kingdom, having the blood of Li nation, falling into the hands of the King of Li, Ruo Yan, even the way he loves you would be different from Xi Lei’s King, who is concerned about your feelings and understands your thoughts. If we consider Ruo Yan’s personality, he will find whichever possible method to rasp your spirit until you agree to his thousands needs. At that time, would you be as carefree as you are like this?

Thinking about that possibility, Feng Ming felt a sudden cold chill down his body.

In his mind, the sudden image of a person who looked like him was called to the bedroom by Ruo Yan, later tortured for no reason, his body being invaded to the point that blood would flow nonstop.

Lie Er laughed loudly, “That’s right, it’s Xi Lei King who cannot leave Duke Ming’s side and Duke Ming who can’t leave either, which is good. But why did Prime Minister sigh about it a while ago?”

LZL: I sighed because G.o.d is unfair. Many people who are suffering and yet not a single person has a bit of a similar trait like Duke Ming.

The mixed feelings he felt inside could not be easily expressed to everyone.

He sighed loudly as he turned himself. Just like Feng Ming and Rong Tian, he pulled up his sleeves and carried his chair towards the dining room.

Now that the small dining room had enough chairs, everyone positioned their seating. Chiu Lan and several maids covered the table with dishes of food. She looked around for a bit before smiling and asked, “How come no one is eating yet? Could it be that we are waiting for another guest?”

“What guest?”

“Of course there is another guest.” Chiu Lan turned herself to allow everyone to clearly see the person who came.

The beautiful slim figure was standing at the door, with phoenix eyes, two youthful blus.h.i.+ng cheeks. The stunning beauty who came to visit was in fact Wei Chiu Niang.

Everyone was surprised.

Lie Zhong Liu quickly jumped up from his chair and rushed in front of Wei Chiu Niang, smiling until his eyes were like two threads. He rubbed his hands together and excitedly said, “My lady, you came? Heh, I saw that the sun had came up already and didn’t see you here yet so I thought that you...”

Wei Chiu Niang hated the most was his overbearing excitement and smiling face, she gave him a ferocious stare. “What did you think I was? If I’ve promised you then would I come, why would I disregard a promise?”

Lie Er was sitting beside Feng Ming, he leaned over and whispered to him, “No wonder he changed today, saying things like I don’t like touching hands and feet. It’s because he knew the tigress would come.”

Recalling Lie Zhong Liu’s pretend straight laced gentleman image a while ago, Feng Ming couldn’t help but reveal a smile.

He doesn’t know what method Lie Zhong Liu used to bring the hard-to-persuade Wei Chiu Niang to come willing and meet them.

“Haha. My lady sure is someone who keeps her promise. That’s right, you look very beautiful today compared to normal days, you must have spent some time preparing. Ah, but it’s lovely, a woman needs to dress up, but you are already a beautiful woman.”

Lie Zhong Liu led her over to dining room and helped her onto his chair. Since the number of chairs was enough earlier, once Wei Chiu Niang sat down, Lie Zhong Liu didn’t have any other place to sit.

Lie Zhong Liu didn’t care and just stood beside Wei Chiu Niang’s side while gallantly helped place a little pastry into her bowl, “My lady, are you hungry? This is not bad, please have a taste.”

WCN: Clearly you have not eaten it, how dare you lie and say that it tastes delicious.

Lie Zhong Liu happily endured it and quickly admitted his fault, “Yes, I’ve said something wrong, my lady is still the best. I’ve lied...however...however you can be mad at me, but you can never starve yourself.”

Wei Chiu Niang “hu” once more and snorted.

This time she picked up the chopsticks and savored the little stuffed pastries.

Lie Zhong Liu was observing her on the side and as she lightly chew and slowly swallowed, he was more excited than the person enjoying the food.

The couple was now the main focus of everyone in the room, under watchful eyes, Xi Lei’s Prime Minister’s ways of pleasing his wife made everyone’s hairs stand on end.

“Here, give this a try.” Waiting for Wei Chiu Niang to finish the other pastry, Lie Zhong Liu picked up another small one and carefully placed it into her bowl. “This seems to be a peach, lovely red color, have a taste. Eating a lot will help your skin be more youthful and beautiful.”

Lie Er s.h.i.+vered and whispered into Feng Ming’s ear, “Oh mother, this Lie Zhong Liu is even more nauseating than you and His Majesty.”

Even though his voice was low, but since they were all sitting at the same table with Rong Tian sitting next to Feng Ming, he could hear Lie Er’s rude remarks, causing him to raise his eyebrows immediately.

Feng Ming noticed this so he quickly reached under the table and held onto Rong Tian’s hand, motioning him not to frighten Lie Er anymore. Looking around for a bit, he revealed a smile on his face, “Don’t sit silently like this, let’s start eating.” He reached for the stuffed buns and gave it to Lie Er, “Lie Er, don’t say anymore nonsense and obediently eat this.”

Even as clueless as him, he felt that something was very wrong with Lie Er today. Only afraid that it might have something to do with the person Wei Chiu Niang mentioned the day before, “Yu Lang.”

Feng Ming really wanted to know the relations.h.i.+p between Lie Er and that person, but he felt it must be a sad past of Lie Er. Exposing a person"s wound is not a good thing, not to mention someone who is close to him.

Every time he thinks about it, he has to hold back his curiosity.

Since Feng Ming opened up, everyone was already tempted by Chiu Lan’s cooking that their stomachs were growling. They each grabbed a pretty-looking pastry and started eating.

Zi Yan was sitting next to Lie Zhong Liu earlier and seeing him standing next to wife and accompanying her made him uneasy. He quickly stood up and said, “Prime Minister, please sit here.”

He went to another room to take over two chairs, one for him and the other for Chiu Lan.

After eating for a while, the delicious pastries had been wiped out about 90%. Unconsciously, they began discussing about national affairs.

“Prime Minister, according to what you said yesterday, we should temporarily withhold our plans on returning to Xi Lei. This is a brilliant plan, but I have something to ask Prime Minister.” Qian Lin finished eating the last roll in his hand, wiped his mouth, and was the first person to begin the topic.

“Go ahead.”

“If we can’t temporarily regain the throne, then we can’t head back to Xi Lei. If so, then where should we be heading to?”

Once this issue was brought up, they all nodded in unison.

Because of Lie Zhong Liu, they had suddenly changed their plan. After a long night of resting and the excitement had pa.s.sed, this was the first important question that came to mind.

The world is large, where should they head to now?

Lie Zhong Liu personally helped pour a cup of hot tea for Wei Chiu Niang, “My lady, drink a bit of warm tea to ease your throat.” He then turned to look at Qian Lin with appreciation and asked, “According to you, what should we do next?”

Feng Ming secretly applauded.

He was afraid that Lie Zhong Liu would raise the question and requested him to answer it. At this moment, there is another person, Qian Lin, who doesn’t know when to be scared, catching the interest of Lie Zhong Liu, and now being asked questions.

The more he thought about it, the more pleased he was that he couldn’t help sneaking a giggle.

Rong Tian who was observing him carefully, immediately understood what was going on in his little head. His big palm stretched out under the table and pinched Feng Ming’s leg as well as caressing it.

Qian Lin and Zi Yan were both personally selected as confidants by Rong Tian. They were of course very talented. After carefully pondering for a moment, he did not answer the question but immediately asked Lie Zhong Liu instead, “Prime Minister has been to Yue Zhong city many times, you should be very familiar with this place. Would Prime Minister happen to have a map of this city?”

Lie Zhong Liu was stunned for a moment, his eyes seemed to be smiling, he nodded at Qian Lin, “Not bad.” He reached into his robes, pulled out a roll of cloth, and spread it across the table in front of him. It was a map of the city.

This map was very different from the map they saw yesterday.

Feng Ming leaned over to look, his eyes widened to their limit. This map was drawn using seven different colors with fine lines and complexity. It was a fine piece of art. He leaned back and whispered to Rong Tian, “Our Prime Minister is even more amazing than Doraemon. He can pull out anything he wants from inside his sleeves.”

Rong Tian lowered his voice to reply, “He must have guessed that someone would ask about Yue Zhong City and if they do, then he would need the map of it. This map, I would guess that he spent last night drawing it. This person is filled with strategies, definitely not someone we dare to look down upon.” He then asked, “Doraemon is from which nation?”

“Probably from a ‘Miao (cat)’ nation,” Feng Ming stuck out his cute little tongue and sat back in his chair as he continued to listen to the national affairs discussion.

Qian Lin pointed at a thin blue line on Lie Zhong Liu’s map, “I have surveyed this area for many days now, but have never seen this route.”

Lie Zhong Liu calmly explained, “For you to not see it is not something strange. This blue color marks the secret tunnels of Yue Zhong. If no one is there to point the way, even those who have lived here for many years may not find the entrance. Not to mention that you just surveyed this area for a few times.”

Qian Lin was startled, “What? How can a small city like Yue Zhong have a complex infrastructure?”

Qian Lin narrowed his eyes and closely examined the sophisticated blue line, pointing to an area on the map, “Look here, the tunnels also lead outside the city. Gosh, a huge tunnel route like this must have taken a long time to create.”

Wei Chiu Niang seems very familiar with the surprising expressions, she coldly explained, “This was created ever since Yue Zhong city was built. There was much effort put into it, but unfortunately the tunnel route has not gone into use.”

Along with Rong Hu, Zi Yan stood up side by side next to him and carefully looked at the map, “The person who built this place must harbor great ambitions with intentions to use it as a military fortress in the future. Look, the city has a natural barrier to rely on the forest in the front. Beyond the forest and mountains is Aman River, while behind Yue Zhong would go straight to Xi Lei.”

“Ah, so it’s to deal with Xi Lei...” After Rong Hu said that, he felt uneasy, his voice stopped as he looked up at Wei Chiu Niang.

Wei Chiu Niang still did not display any changes to her expression. She received Rong Hu’s direct gaze and replied, “Not bad, the year this city was secretly bought using a large sum of money was with intentions of dealing with Xi Lei. Unfortunately, Yong Yin royal family could not compare to the generation before, without ambition of fortifying the city, they still did not dare to take action. Until now, Yue Zhong became an abandoned city in a remote area. Ha, really interesting, isn’t it?”

Even though her mouth said it was interesting, her tone was inexplicably resentful.

After hearing this, everyone knew that her relations.h.i.+p with Yue Zhong is not a simple one.

Rong Tian remembered about someone, his pupils suddenly contracted, staring at Wei Chiu Niang. “May I ask what is the relations.h.i.+p between you and General Wei Qian?”

Hearing this name, Wei Chiu Niang revealed a wry smile as she replied, “He is my great grandfather.”

As the words were spoken, not only Rong Tian, but Feng Ming who was sitting next to him also suddenly shuddered.

The name of Wei Qian was heard many times when Rong Hu was lecturing him on the history of each nation.

The eleven kingdoms have been in disputes for over a century, brave heroes were appearing, one after another, all powerful, but the most impressive person was someone who was born a slave. With his many accomplishments, he had changed the fate of Yong Yin Kingdom. That person was General Wei Qian.

Yong Yin was a weak nation at that time, suffering from three neighboring kingdoms attacks, Wei Qian organized his army, leading 600 brave slaves into battle. With his military talents, they defeated the Tong Kingdom’s military troops.

The royal family of Yong Yin was in the palace at that time and preparing the white cloth to commit suicide. After receiving great news, Yong Yin King Yong Lian, rewarded Wei Qian for his great merit, regardless of his background, he promoted Wei Qian from a slave to a n.o.ble. Not only that he handed over the rest of Yong Yin military troops to Wei Qian.

This was in complete desperation.

Wei Qian did not disappoint Yong Lian. He lead the remaining troops of Yong Yin, relying on meager food for support, they used ambush, weapons, fire and water defense, distraction...all sort of various methods to defeat the three coalition of nation, and once again recovered that stable foundation of Yong Yin Kingdom.

He used war tactics, created many unthinkable strategic plans, using less people, but winning in extremely large number.

If one were to speak of military genius, then this past century, no one was able to come close to Wei Qian’s ability.

Even for someone as confident as Rong Tian, he would not dare to look down upon the name.

“I did not expect to encounter a descendant of someone who has become a mythical figure right here. Please excuse my rudeness. Besides Lady Wei, how many descendents does General Wei has and where are they right now?”

“I am the only one.” Wei Chiu Niang sneered, “Xi Lei King is planning to ask why a descendant of General Wei Qian would be sent to this remote, abandoned city, am I right?”

She can also be considered intelligent.

Indeed, this was the question Rong Tian had in mind, but did not dare to ask her directly.

The matter involving a legendary hero a century ago and with his only living descendant sitting in front of them, everyone’s attention was drawn in as they waited for her answer.

LZL: The matter regarding Yong Yin’s royal family and General Wei’s family is very complex. I also don’t know how to make it clear.

WCN: What’s so hard to say? It not that you don’t know how to make it clear, you just don’t want to say it so just shut up for me!”

Hearing this, Feng Ming was fretting inside like he suddenly realized something. He couldn’t help but let out a shocking cry.

Everyone heard it and turned their heads to gaze at him. “What is it?” Rong Tian asked.

“I...I seem to understand something.”

“What is it that you understand?”

“Haha.” Feng Ming smiled, revealing his cute dimples, “I just realized why Lady Wei was willing to come and eat breakfast with us this morning.”

Rong Tian sighed hopelessly, “This matter is so easy to understand, you’ve only now come to understand it?”

FM: Then you understand it? RT: Of course, I understand it.

They were both arguing about understanding the situation to the point the everyone else was confused after listening to them.

Chiu Lan asked, “Duke Ming, so what did the both of you understand? Why did Lady Wei suddenly come here to eat breakfast with us?”

Zi Yan chuckled, “If I’m not wrong, it must be...”

“Stop!” Lie Zhong Liu suddenly interrupted Zi Yan, waiting until everyone’s attention was on him did he gave an enigmatic smile, “How about we play a game.”

Chiu Yue loved most was playing games, she immediately was excited and asked in a crisp voice, “What kind of game?”

“Everyone will write their guesses on their palm and then we’ll reveal it together to see who guessed correctly and who guessed incorrectly.”

Chiu Yue’s bright smiling face immediately disappeared, “What’s so fun about this game, I can’t guess at all.”

Although she protested, the others were fond of this game.

Soon, the brush and ink were brought forth and everyone wrote their answer on their palms.

LZL: Open up your palms out for me to see, you’ll get a penalty for wrong answer. One, two, three!”

They opened up their palms and glanced over to see the other person’s answer.

The palms of Rong Tian, Zi Yan, Rong Hu, Qian Lin, Lie Er had three words: The Grace Order. Feng Ming was lazy and only wrote “Grace” but the meaning was there.

Lie Zhong Liu tracked each palm and said, “Right...that is right...Not bad, Duke Ming also guessed correctly.”

Chiu Xing’s palm had the words, “breakfast.” Chiu Lan saw that everyone was staring at her so she explained herself, “I guessed this because Chiu Lan’s pastries are very delicious.”

Chiu Lan was very pleased, “Chiu Xing, if there is sometime you want to eat in the future, just tell me and I’ll make it for you.” What Chiu Lan wrote on her palm was her most honest answer, “I don’t know.”

Chiu Yue couldn’t come up with an answer so she casually drew a simple cat face, everyone laughed after seeing it.

Once the answer was revealed, Feng Ming was greatly disappointed and sighed, “I thought this time I was able to come up with something unique, I can’t believe the majority of you had already guessed it.”

Lie Er giggled, “I originally didn’t guess it, but after listening to Duke Ming and His Majesty discussion, whoever couldn’t think of it would be a fool. Even though General Wei Qian made lots of accomplishments, he was still born a slave. Yong Yin royal family must have taken him for granted. Relying on him to protect them, but after the matter subsided; they would ignore and hate the Wei family.”

His guess was pretty close.

When Wei Qian was still alive, who would have the courage to provoke him?

After Wei Qian’s death, Yong Yin Yong Lian also pa.s.sed away. Once the new heir sat on the throne, the Wei family did not have anyone with the same ability as Wei Qian. Since then, even though Wei family was of n.o.ble status, the other n.o.bles looked down upon them. The inter-relations between the Wei family who started out as slaves and other n.o.ble families were not many.

A family name who had rescue Yong Yin during its darkest time. After the death of Wei Qian, because of the strict hierarchy, they suffered countless injustice, so how can they not feel any grievances?

Therefore, the Grace Order that Rong Tian adopted will erase the caste system that valued a person’s origin. This is a medicine to ease Wei Chiu Niang’s suffering.

No wonder she finally softened her att.i.tude and was willing to visit them.

Up until now, Wei Chiu Niang’s sudden appearance has a satisfactory explanation. Qian Lin no longer posed the question he had earlier and started discussing about Yue Zhong’s current location and defense infrastructure.

“Is this city really something that General Wei Qian had built?” Qian Lin looked at the map and exclaimed in admiration. “The more I look at this map, the more impressed I am by him. The inside and outside are connected, coordinating with distance for mutual aid. As long as this city is under proper command, it can become a sufficient barrier, defending against thousands of troops during a siege.”

Zi Yan also nodded in agreement, “If we didn’t have the help of Prime Minister to open the gates, I’m afraid that we won’t be able to invade it.”

Lie Zhong Liu desperately winked at Zi Yan, but unfortunately, it was too late.

When bringing up this matter, Wei Chiu Niang was fuming with anger that she used her elbow and struck Lie Zhong Liu in his abdomen.

Lie Zhong Liu gave a soft whimper, holding his abdomen while revealing a painful expression, but did not dare to yell out in pain, fearing that other people will know that his wife gave him a heavy blow.

Chiu Yue saw that and secretly laughed in amus.e.m.e.nt.

Men are usually afraid of their wives, but for their wives to punch and kick them is something rare to see.

Zi Yan knew that he said something he shouldn’t have, causing Lie Zhong Liu to have a beating so he quickly changed the subject, hoping to recover the situation, “For Yue Zhong to have a unique geographical advantage like this, along with an underground tunnel is enough to serve as a st.u.r.dy base. According to Prime Minister, this place can be like a base waiting for the world to change drastically, waiting for Ruo Yan to be surrounded and weakened by other nations, will we take action, overtake the chaotic Xi Lei and then defeat Ruo Yan. Am I right?”

What he said was right and everyone nodded in agreement.

Lie Zhong Liu did not answer, only directing his eyes away from Rong Tian.

Rong Tian’s piercing eyes did not allow his direct stare, he sighed, “Listen here my subordinates, I command you to listen to Prime Minister’s order. No matter what kind of plans Prime Minister sets, please don’t hesitate to make arrangements.”

He took the jade that was hanging on his waist and gave it to Lie Zhong Liu as he spoke with complete certainty, “This is a token.”

Chapter 7

Everyone watched in astonishment.

They didn’t know what other plans their new Prime Minister would come up with, but His Majesty had already nodded in advance and even handed him a token. It would have been better to wait for Lie Zhong Liu to discuss about the plan, but Rong Tian had stated clearly beforehand, even if the plan is not a good one, Rong Tian would not dismiss it.

Lie Zhong Liu did not immediately accept the jade handed in front of him, but smiled and asked, “I wonder if both His Majesty and Duke Ming are considered commanders in charge?”

Everyone was surprised by his bold and arrogant att.i.tude.

Rong Tian stared straight into Lie Zhong Liu’s eyes, but he showed no fear and was still relaxed. RT: Alright. Duke Ming along with me will listen to the Prime Minister’s arrangements.

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” At this time, Lie Zhong Liu accepted the jade with both hands.

Feng Ming already knew the way Rong Tian handled national affairs. When making decisions, he was always wise and firm so he was not even a bit surprised. Feng Ming obediently sat next to Rong Tian, waiting to hear Lie Zhong Liu’s command.

When Wei Chiu Niang saw Rong Tian’s action firsthand, she was secretly taken aback.

In other words, Lie Zhong Liu was a Yong Yin citizen and not a citizen of Xi Lei; yet Rong Tian trusted him entirely, handing over complete power to Lie Zhong Liu. Just by this action alone, all the other powerful nations, no matter how open minded, would still lose in comparison to Rong Tian.

After all, she is fully aware of a royalty’s state of mind, saying one thing and doing something else is common. When hearing about the Grace’s Order, she still held onto a bit of hope.

Thinking about this, she is now in favor of Rong Tian.

Lie Zhong Liu received the token, holding the jade in hand as he stood in front of the table. While looking around, they all held their breaths waiting for his order. A handsome smile appeared on his face as he began calling out their names one by one, “Qian Lin!”

“Present!” Qian Lin knew what military order would be issued at this moment, so he immediately stood up before answering briskly with a military salute.

“I’m handing this map to you. Starting today, you are responsible in guarding Yue Zhong City and monitoring the movements within Xi Lei.”

“Understood!”

Lie Zhong Liu saw Qian Lin had taken the map on the table, neatly folded it and placed it inside his s.h.i.+rt. “Keep the map in a safe place, I have personally went through the tunnels and after careful examination, I drew out each route. General Wei is a magnificent talented person, creating a changeable tunnel design filled with complexity. If you wish to utilize it, you must remember that in case of war, it can be put to good use. This city will be an important foundation for His Majesty if he chooses to return to Xi Lei in the future. Before His Majesty can retake the throne, we must not lose Yue Zhong.”

Qian Lin inscribed everything within his heart and with a serious face he said, “Prime Minister, I understand. I will keep this map with me at all times and will carefully examine every detail of it several times.”

Lie Zhong Liu nodded, then called out Mian Ya, who stepped forward to receive his order. “Ruo Yan is aiming on annexing Fan Jia, all the other nations are worried. Go and pick someone who is competent with disguising and send him to each nation to inquire about the situation.”

“Yes!” Mian Ya said, “Once there is a reaction among the rulers and n.o.bles of each nation, our spies will immediately notify us by all means.”

“Not just the response of the dignitaries.” Lie Zhong Liu gently laughed, “Also the rumors by the people, all the generals and soldiers from top to bottom, even the lower ranking guards, how about that? They have to ask and discuss with the people which monarch they like and which King they are troubled by, all of these are not to be left out.”

Mian Ya was shocked, but respectfully accepted the order.

After Lie Zhong Liu finished giving his command for Mian Ya, his sight turned to Lie Er.

Lie Er was sitting on the chair, yawning, but suddenly jumped up and changed into a serious expression, waiting for the task a.s.signed to him.

Unexpectedly, Lie Zhong Liu just glanced at him and then turned his sight to another direction. He calmly called out, “Rong Hu.”

“Rong Hu’s here!”

“Whatever responsibility you were in charge of before, you can continue doing the same. However, I also want to add an extra small a.s.signment for you.”

“Please a.s.sign it, Prime Minister.”

“You have to help me manage our monetary a.s.sets.” “Ah?”

Lie Zhong Liu did not show any expression of being joking around as he looked at Rong Hu. “Master Xiao monopolized the large s.h.i.+pping industry within the eleven kingdoms. There are hundreds...many years, many generations of acc.u.mulated wealth. Duke Ming has just inherited it so he has to be aware of his family wealth.”

Feng Ming nodded his head nonstop.

Indeed, his father is upstanding and carefree. With just one word, he readily handed over the Xiao Family’s s.h.i.+pping business and a.s.sets to him, packed up his things and left without a word. He heard that the Xiao Family’s properties are endless so who knows how much wealth was acc.u.mulated?

Rong Hu gave a troubled look, “Prime Minister has a point, but I’ve followed His Majesty for some time now and learned mostly martial arts and war strategies, as for financial management...I don’t seem to understand it....”

“If you don’t understand how to manage finance, there is nothing to worry about,” Lie Zhong Liu happily explained, “The Xiao Family is such a large industry, other nations are bound to have their own financial managers and have regular financial review with their masters. You are a meticulous person. The first thing required is to input the amount of a.s.sets we have right now, as well as the annual earning each year, amount of jewelries and treasures and everything else included. The location, leases, and how many properties combined. Inspect and calculate all of them clearly, so that I can coordinate on how to use this amount of money.”

He then turned his head to smile at Rong Tian, “Since His Majesty hasn’t regained the throne, he does not have a treasury to collect taxes and yet will need a huge expenditure. The first thing that must be resolved is the question of money.”

Feng Ming never dreamt that he would become a world-cla.s.s tyc.o.o.n and now would be “supporting” Rong Tian. He giggled and looked over to Rong Tian, proudly comforting him, “Don’t worry, with me here, you won’t go hungry. Even if you’re not a King for this whole life, I’ll continue to support you. Of course, in order to repay me, you will have to listen to the words of Duke Ming.”

Rong Tian’s face was filled with a spoiled expression while his hand slid under the table and roamed across Feng Ming’s legs. He grabbed onto the organ situated in the middle of them and between the fabrics, he slowly caressed it as he gave Feng Ming an insinuating chuckle, “How many nights should I wholeheartedly thank Duke Ming for his generosity?”

Feng Ming grimly stared at him. This time he didn’t dare to be arrogant and stuck out his tongue, “Well, I’m just saying. How can you be so stingy while there are many people here?”

Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing who had been standing behind them, saw the events happening under the table and they both couldn’t help but giggle.

Zi Yan was standing to one side and took the initiative to ask Lie Zhong Liu, “Prime Minister, then what...should I do?”

“You will follow His Majesty, to....”

Lie Zhong Liu spoke halfway, when the sound of disruptive footsteps came from afar. Everyone felt it was strange when the large door suddenly opened. Two guards rushed in and shouted out in a loud voice, “Your Majesty! There appears to be an enemy within the city!”

Everyone’s hearts suddenly leaped out of their chests.

Qian Lin and Zi Yan were both responsible for guarding Yue Zhong so they immediately stood up. “Where has the enemy appeared? How many are there? What is the current situation? Hurry and carefully tell us everything.”

During this emergent situation, Qian Lin was able to question the guards calmly in an orderly and professional way.

Lie Zhong Liu nodded at his actions and silently thought about how well Xi Lei King picks all his candidates.

The two guards were a little panicked, but after listening to Qian Lin’s methodical questions, they eventually calmed down and replied, “Replying to Commander; the enemy suddenly appeared at the entrance gate, 200 paces northeast. We have followed your orders to switch s.h.i.+fts in surveying the area, but we don’t know how the enemy snuck inside the city. They have injured the guards on duty and immediately alerted our attention. Probably they were afraid of the number of people we have so they fled the scene. However, most strangely enough, the other party seemed to have some sort of invisibility trick. They can move through walls. Every time we clearly surrounded and close in on them at every direction, they would disappear without a trace. So far, we still don’t know how many people there are.”

Qian Lin’s eyes flashed in realization, “They must be using those underground tunnels.” He quickly reached inside his s.h.i.+rt pocket and pulled out the map of Yue Zhong he had just received and laid it out on the table.

He had personally inspected this city many times before. He glanced at the area on the top of the map and effortlessly found the gate in the northeast, at about 200 paces, he pointed to the route, “Your Majesty,behold, this place happens to have a tunnel exit.” He turned to look at the reporting guards and asked, “When they fled the scene it was from the East, so they must have came from the South?”

The guards were surprised as they replied, “It is from that area, how does commander know?”

Zi Yan stood beside Qian Lin and with his fingers he traced the path on the map and found the alley Qian Lin had spoke about. Facing Rong Tian and Feng Ming, he said, “With so many exits to the tunnel, if the enemy is aware of these tunnels clearly like the palms of his hands, along with his swift movements, even if their number is small, they can put our troops into a complete confusion.”

They had just heard from Lie Zhong Liu regarding the complex tunnel route of Yue Zhong, so they haven’t warned the guards on patrol about the tunnel design.

The guards on patrol must be completely tricked and were spinning around in circles.

“Prime Minister, could there be other people who are aware of Yue Zhong’s tunnel routes?” Rong Tian looked towards Lie Zhong Liu.

If the tunnels were no longer a secret, then wouldn’t they no longer be useful?

Instead, if the enemy were to place a siege in the future, it will become Yue Zhong’s Achilles’ heel.

Lie Zhong Liu calmly replied, “Please, rest a.s.sured, Your Majesty. If the opponent is familiar with the tunnel routes of the city, then he is not an enemy.” He asked the guards, “What’s the current situation? Did you already capture the person?”

“We still haven’t caught him.” The embarra.s.sed guard continued, “We’ve surrounded him several times, we obviously saw him entering the small courtyard, but then we found out he had already left the area. They seemed to be hiding in a secret location and would occasionally come out to wound several of our brothers. Even now, we still don’t know where they went. We were worried that they will continue to disrupt the city; therefore, we quickly came here to report this to His Majesty and our commanders.”

Feng Ming frowned and said, “So who is exactly behind all this?”

“Duke Ming doesn’t need to worry, I already guessed who it is.” Lie Zhong Liu laughed out loud, waved his sleeves and straightened himself, “Not only could I guess who he is, but I can also guess where he is hiding. Come, everyone follow me.” He turned and stepped outside the door, bypa.s.sing the dilapidated servant room, to the back courtyard and stopped in front of a small door.

Lie Er leaned in towards Feng Ming and whispered in his ears, “So it is this door, following along this trail, go further a bit and it is Yue Zhong’s lieutenant of defense’s resident."

When he first entered the city, Lie Er was adamant in finding Wei Chiu Niang to count scores with and wanted to turn the whole residence upside down so he was quite familiar with this place.

Everyone continued to follow Lie Zhong Liu.

Sure enough, once outside the door was a small trail leading to another small door.

Feng Ming thought to himself, this is probably the back door to the Lieutenant’s resident.

Lie Zhong Liu opened the door and led everyone inside.

Zi Yan went inside and looked at all four corners. He was instantly alarmed and exchanged a glance with Qian Lin. Facing Rong Tian, he whispered, “Your Majesty, something is not right.”

“Oh?”

“I have arranged two teams of guards to look after this place, but right now, there is not a single movement. I’m afraid that there is an ambush.”

Rong Tian’s eyes glanced over at Lie Zhong Liu with a burning look. “Your Majesty, do you want to head back?”

“Let us summon another team of guards before heading inside.”

Rong Tian had yet to answer, but he suddenly felt something strange. It seems that Feng Ming who was beside him, was gently tugging on his sleeve. Seeing him turning around, he said in a serious

manner, “If you suspect the person, then don’t use him. If you use him, then don’t suspect the person.”

Rong Tian smiled at Feng Ming, grabbed his wrist and strode behind together with Lie Zhong Liu.

Lie Zhong Liu had no knowledge of the whispering behind him and still led the way towards the office room in front. Zi Yan carefully examined the surroundings and sure enough not a single guard was found.

At this time, the two of them immediately clenched the sword hilts on their waists, secretly moving in position, one in front and one in the back, protecting Rong Tian and Feng Ming.

Rong Hu and Lie Er had noticed it earlier and were quietly guarding both left and right of Rong Tian and Feng Ming. The four of them surrounded them, making Rong Tian and Feng Ming as their center.

They were not suspicious of Lie Zhong Liu, but their King and Duke Ming’s lives were at stake. In order to ensure their safety, they did not dare to neglect their duties.

The Lieutenant’s residence was so silent it was scary. Only rustling of footsteps could be heard. The more they went further inside, the creepier it got. After walking for a bit, Lie Zhong Liu suddenly stopped causing the rest to do the same.

Looking around in all directions, just like before, not a single person was seen.

Lie Er exhaled a breath and was just about to ask Lie Zhong Liu when a shadow abruptly sprang from the side and flew towards them.

“Ah!” Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing were so scared they cried out. Chiu Lan was frightened that she sat on the ground.

Zi Yan and the others had already wield out their weapons and without hesitation aimed at the dark shadow.

That dark shadow was unusually cunning. It flew in the air, threw itself in front of Chiu Yue, but suddenly twisted and escaped from several cutting edges aimed towards it. It quickly hopped and jumped straight towards Lie Zhong Liu’s chest.

Lie Zhong Liu had guessed earlier that this would be the case so he happily stretched out his arms and picked up that dark shadow. He smiled while standing in place and said to the rest of them, “Is this how to act during our first meeting? Acting very fierce, be careful as someone might hold a grudge on you in the future.”

From the first moment the dark shadow emerged, Rong Tian had pulled Feng Ming close and guarded him in his arms. In a quick glance, the shadow appeared to be an animal. Feng Ming stuck his head from Rong Tian’s arms and calmly asked, “Prime Minister, is that a squirrel?”

“It is not a squirrel.” Lie Zhong Liu explained, “Yong Yin people call it a flying marten. This one here, its name is (Xiao Chiu) Little Autumn.” While talking, he slightly raised his arm.

Feng Ming quickly walked over to take a look.

The little marten seemed to suffer a fright from Zi Yan and the others’ weapons that it hid inside Lie Zhong Liu’s wide sleeves. Its small body formed a ball inside the sleeve, causing Lie Zhong Liu to pull it out, but it was still attached to his arm. In a short while, the animal showed its furry face. Its face was similar to a squirrel, but its nose was red like a small red bean, but its eyes were bright green.

Feng Ming opened his mouth wide and laughed, “How cute!”

Zi Yan and the rest saw that it was not an enemy so they were relieved, placing their weapons back into the sheath and came over to take a look at the little animal.

Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing who were originally scared, stood behind Feng Ming and timidly observed. With big bright eyes like a child seeing her favorite pet animal, they repeatedly exclaimed, “So interesting! So cute! Chiu Lan, come over here and look!” They petted the furry animal.

Little Autumn knew the maids were boasting how cute it was so it stretched out its little head and allowed the two to touch it.

Chiu Lan was still hesitant to come over, but after glancing from afar, she couldn’t help but laugh, “That is interesting, it is really well-behaved.” She eventually reached out to touch it.

She had formerly kept a kitten and likes all types of cats, the marten really loves having its neck scratched so Chiu Lan gently scratched the side of its head.

Little Autumn was greatly pleased that it completely crawled out of Lie Zhong Liu’s sleeve, shaking its big colorful tail and narrowing its eyes in enjoyment.

Feng Ming could not help but reach out and touch its tail. “Prime Minister, is this animal raised by you? How come I haven’t seen it before?”

“It is raised by my little brother.” Lie Zhong Liu answered, one hand holding Little Autumn, he tilted his head and raised his voice, “Zhong s.h.i.+, you better come out for me!”

After shouting out, dust was rustling down from the top of the building. Zi Yan yelled, “There’s someone up above!”

Everyone jumped back and looked up.

Suddenly a figure leaped onto the beams and stood up beautifully in the air as he landed in front of the crowd, which happened to be in front of the door, forming a huge shadow covering everyone.

Feng Ming only felt everything suddenly went dark when that tall and mighty person stood in front of them like a huge tower.

Chapter 8

This tower in front of them even issued a loud laughter, yelling out, “Brother, sister-in-law, so both of you are alright. It was really strange. I saw strange guards outside the residence, their clothing were different and they closed off the gates tightly. I even thought that Yue Zhong was overtaken by some bad people.”

That man was about half a head taller than Rong Tian. Chiu Lan, Chiu Yue forgot about Little Autumn for a moment as they both stared with wide eyes at the giant man in front of them.

Feng Ming looked at him in surprised and asked Lie Zhong Liu, “Prime Minister, this person is...”

Lie Zhong Liu patted that man on the shoulders, “This is my little brother, Lie Zhong s.h.i.+.”

“Your little brother?” Feng Ming never knew that Lie Zhong Liu had a little brother.

Anyhow, if he could make a lieutenant wife magically appear, then he could make a tall, huge little brother jump out from inside the room.

It seemed that the entire family of Lie Zhong Liu was not composed of common people. “Zhong s.h.i.+, come over here, this person is Xi Lei Duke Ming, and this here is Xi Lei King.”

Although Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ was a big person, he had a good temperament. Listening to Lie Zhong Liu’s words, he took two to three steps to walk over, “Greetings Duke Ming! Greetings Xi Lei King!” He gave an unsuspecting brilliant smile towards Duke Ming and the others.

Chiu Yue turned her head and whispered to Chiu Xing, “This should be Prime Minister’s cousin, right?”

They were not judging, but by the appearance alone, looking from top to bottom, Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ and Lie Zhong Liu didn’t have any similar features. Even though Lie Zhong Liu has many eccentric qualities, like for example – crying occasionally, but when discussing about his appearance, he was considered to be quite handsome. Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ on the other hand, looked completely different, big and tall with a st.u.r.dy frame, straight forward mannerism, and a super honest look.

Unexpectedly, it so happened that Wei Chiu Niang was standing behind them and overheard their conversation. She replied coldly, “It is indeed his younger brother. The Lie family only has these two brothers.”

“No, that’s not right!” She was not like Chiu Lan who was soft speaking. Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ heard them and shook his head, “Other than me and my older brother, there is also Dou Dou and Little Autumn.”

Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ picked up Little Autumn and introduced it to everyone, but they all meet the marten earlier so Feng Ming asked Zhong s.h.i.+ where Dou Dou was.

Zhong s.h.i.+ just realized that Dou Dou was missing, so he shouted out loudly, ordering Dou Dou to come out from his hiding spot. Everyone had to take a step back away from him.

Rong Tian was never interested in these types of matter. After realizing that the situation within the city was unchanged and not worth mentioning, he became a bit impatient. However, seeing Feng Ming’s curiosity towards Little Autumn and Dou Dou, he could not bear to ruin Feng Ming’s moment of enthusiasm, so he stood aside patiently accompanying Feng Ming.

“Dou Dou is our servant, his name is Lie Dou, but Zhong s.h.i.+ gave that nickname to him. He grew up together with Zhong s.h.i.+ and the two of them are inseparable.” Lie Zhong Liu explained to Feng Ming.

ZY: Prime Minister, earlier, when a report of an enemy suddenly appearing in the city, could it have been your younger brother and his servant?”

Lie Zhong Liu nodded his head.

QL: Then I’ll head out for a bit and ordered the guards to stop their pursuit to avoid unnecessary panic within the city.

ZY: Let me handle this situation, I still want to personally inspect the area one more round before I can rest a.s.sured.

QL: Go ahead. Remember to send a team of guards to station at the Lieutenant’s residence since it’s dangerous to leave the place unattended.

ZY: Understood. No need to for you to ask. (Zi Yan smiled before leaving). Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ was still calling out for his servant, Dou Dou.

Everyone thought that “Dou Dou” should be in the vicinity and would appear when his name was called out, but even after a half an hour of yelling out, not a single trace of him was seen.

Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ was anxious and drenched in sweat as he desperately scratched his head, “Oh no! Not good! Where is Dou Dou? What should we do? What should we do?” He continued walking around in a circle while muttering, “I shouldn’t have left him. I shouldn’t have...” At a loss, he even tried to pull his ears as a punishment until they turned red.

The kind-hearted Chiu Lan couldn’t bear to see a tall grown man acting like a child, so she softly comforted him, “You don’t need to worry, even if he’s lost, then he would still be within the city of Yue Zhong. The good-hearted Duke Ming will help send some people to look for him for you.”

However, comforting Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ was useless.

After listening to Chiu Lan, he shook his head, “You don’t understand, Dou Dou is very stupid. Once he’s lost, you can’t find him. Dou Dou...Dou Dou is very stupid....”

Before he could finished, a loud voice burst out from somewhere, “Who’s stupid? You’re the stupid one! Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ is the stupid one!”

Following the voice that called out, a figure appeared from behind entrance hall of the rocky road in front. He was wearing a red, baggy outfit secured with a belt. When he stood up straight, he was like a living King Kong.

He scolded at Lie Zhong Liu, calling him “stupid” while walking angrily into the entrance hall. With each heavy footstep, it seemed as if the entire room shook with it.

Everyone was suddenly shocked and had not fully recovered from it. This person was even astounding than the “gigantic” Lie Zhong s.h.i.+.

This man was actually taller than Lie Zhong s.h.i.+, he had the same st.u.r.dy frame and a hairy black beard reaching from mouth to ears.

Feng Ming stared at the man with his mouth wide opened. Oh my, was this “Dou Dou?”

When Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ saw Dou Dou, he was so excited he charged towards him and held him up, “Dou Dou, so you didn’t get lost, that’s so great! That’s so great!” Just a little bit more, they could have been dancing together.

Dou Dou pushed him away and pointed at his nose as he continued to scold, “Lie Zhong s.h.i.+, you fool! What’s wrong with you? You dare say that I’m stupid?”

Being pushed away fiercely by Dou Dou, Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ was a bit stunned, “What do you mean? If you’re not stupid then why didn’t you come out when I was calling you?”

“Obviously you said, Lieutenant’s residence is very dangerous at the moment, one person have to be out in the open and the other in the dark. You also didn’t give any signal, so how can I come out?”

“But I called you for a whole half an hour!”

“But you didn’t give any signal!”

“Since I didn’t give any signal, then why did you suddenly come out?” “How can I not? You were scolding me!”

“I wasn’t scolding at you!”

“Then were you cursing at me?”

“I wasn’t. I was just saying that you were stupid. I wasn’t cursing you.” “That is cursing me! I want an apology!”

“It’s not cursing!”

“It is so!”

“It’s just a saying.”

. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .

For two oversized grown men, they continued to debate about this matter for half the day, causing everyone’s eardrums to buzz nonstop, even the dust on the beams rustled down below.

All the people standing next to them, including Lie Zhong Liu, the brother; Wei Chiu Niang, the sister-in-law, were all completely ignored.

“So are you going to be reasonable and apologize?”

“How am I not reasonable?”

“If you don’t want to apologize, then you’re stupid!”

“I am the Master, you’re a servant. How can a servant call his master stupid?!” “I am the servant, you’re the Master. How can a Master call his servant stupid?!” “The Master is not stupid, the servant is stupid.”

“If the servant is stupid, then the Master is certainly more stupid.” “Who said that?”

“I did!”

. . .. . .. . .. . ..

Seeing them arguing endlessly, even Rong Tian was frowning and telling Lie Zhong Liu, “Prime Minister, please persuade them a bit so they could stop with their arguing.”

Lie Zhong Liu hesitantly smiled, “They grew up quarreling and can’t talk without arguing with each other. Also, when they are arguing, they would not listen to anyone’s advice.” Seeing everyone furrowing their eyebrows, he revealed a bright smile, “Don’t worry, even though they won’t listen to any advice, but there is a method to stop them from bickering.”

Feng Ming quickly asked, “What method?”

Lie Zhong Liu brought back Little Autumn and held it on his palm, he unfathomably said, “As long as Lie Er pet Little Autumn, then it will be done.”

What kind of strange method is this?....

Chiu Lan was very puzzled, “What does your brother and Dou Dou’s quarrel have to do with Lie Er petting Little Autumn?”

Lie Er didn’t see anything wrong with it so he replied, “If it’s touching it then it’s fine. If Prime Minister’s method is not effective, then you have to compensate me.” Adjusting his belt, Lie Er went over and tried to pet Little Autumn’s furry head.

Little Autumn was obediently laying in Lie Zhong Liu’s palm so when Lie Er’s hand reached out over it, the little marten suddenly jumped up into a fighting stance. Like a lightning bolt, Lie Er’s hand was in the jaws of death.

Lie Er yelled out in pain, “Aiya!~” He quickly pulled his hand away, which was now marked with small teeth marks. Although it was small in size, its really sharp teeth caused Lie Er’s white hand to quickly drip in blood red.

Chiu Lan and the maids screamed out in fright, while Feng Ming was shocked at the outcome.

The calm Lie Zhong Liu was chuckling, “Don’t worry, Little Autumn’s teeth are not poisonous. Awhile ago, you tried to capture it and slice it so it still hold a grudge on you. One bite should resolve its hatred so it shouldn’t take the opportunity to attack you anymore.”

Lie Er was angry.

Lie Zhong Liu knew that Little Autumn was holding a grudge on him and yet he even called him over to pet Little Autumn.

Qian Lin was familiar with bloodshed on the battlefield so with a small injury like that, he did not think it was serious. Instead, he was curious as to how Lie Zhong Liu will stop the endless argument that was happening. “Prime Minister, didn’t you said that as long as Lie Er pet Little Autumn, those two will stop arguing?”

“Of course.” Lie Zhong Liu took Little Autumn who just finished taking its revenge, back inside his sleeves. He grabbed Lie Er’s wrist and leisurely walked over to Lie Zhong s.h.i.+, “Zhong s.h.i.+, don’t argue anymore.”

Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ was still in the midst of arguing with Dou Dou and didn’t pay attention to his brother’s words, “What are you so angry about? You dare say that I’m stupid? I am not stupid, in fact, I’m very smart. My brother said that I’m smart, sister-in-law said that I’m smart, they all said that I’m smart. No one had ever said that I was stupid.”

“Well, I say that you’re stupid.” Lie Dou shouted loudly.

Even though he was a servant of Lie Zhong s.h.i.+, he was not afraid of his master. His two eyes stared at Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ as if they were in a staring contest.

Chiu Xing shook her head as she watched them arguing, she whispered to Chiu Lan and Chiu Yue secretly, “No wonder people said that even a talented person cannot manage his family members. Just take a look at our Prime Minister, no matter how amazing he is, he didn’t have a method to deal with his wife. Maybe even this matter with his younger brother and servant; he also has no way of resolving it.”

Lie Zhong Liu was not angry at the comment about him, he was still smiling, “Zhong s.h.i.+, take a look.” “Look at what?” Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ absent mindedly answered, but his eyes were still staring at Dou Dou. Lie Zhong Liu sighed as he picked up Lie Er’s b.l.o.o.d.y palm and waved it across Zhong s.h.i.+’s face.

“You’re the stupid one, why did you have to say that I’m stupid like you. I’m telling you, I...” Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ only spoke halfway, when he noticed a b.l.o.o.d.y hand appearing within his sight. He suddenly stopped mid-sentence, fell silent, his two eyes closed tightly as he stumbled forward a few steps before collapsing.

Lie Dou was in a staring battle with him so when he saw him stumbling forward towards him, he quickly reached out his hands to help him and cried out in shock, “Master, master!”

“Oh no!” Feng Ming was anxious that he wanted to charge forward to help, but Rong Tian pulled him back, smiled at him while shaking his head, telling him not act rashly.

Wei Chiu Niang was standing on the side, enjoying the scene.

Lie Zhong Liu let go of Lie Er’s wrist, he laughed while explaining, “My little brother is afraid of blood, if he sees blood, he will faint. Once he is unconscious, he won’t be able to argue anymore.”

So that’s the reason.

Can’t believe that such a tall grown man would be like that, like a young lady and faint at the sight of blood.

Everyone looked at Lie Zhong Liu strangely and then over at the pale-faced Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ who had just fainted.

Lie Zhong Liu sure was a very strange brother. In order to stop his younger brother from arguing with his servant, he would handle the situation by needing some blood.

At this time, Zi Yan returned to report to Rong Tian, “Your Majesty, the two groups of guards that was guarding this place are still currently unconscious. Some of them were hidden inside the room, some were stuffed behind rocks. I have already ordered another group of guards to be stationed here.”

He turned and smiled helplessly at Lie Zhong Liu, “I didn’t expect that Young Master Lie and his servant have amazing martial arts. These two groups of guards, I personally selected from elite soldiers and yet they were knocked unconscious before alerting others.”

Lie Zhong Liu smiled, “Hiding their traces, doing sneak attacks is a talent of younger brother.”

Wei Chiu Niang scoffed, “This type of sly, sneaky technique, didn’t he learn it from his older brother?”

Lie Zhong Liu was obedient with his wife so he kindly replied, “You’re right, My Lady. I’m the one at fault, leading my brother astray, teaching him bad things.”

Wei Chiu Niang was helpless with his cheekiness; she turned her head and gently snorted, “I didn’t say that you hadn’t taught him well.”

Chapter 9

After the whole ‘enemy within the city’ ordeal was just a false alarm, Zi Yan was very eager to continue with the meeting earlier as he wanted to know what tasks Lie Zhong Liu would a.s.sign to him. Zi Yan asked if they should head back to the General’s residence, but Lie Zhong Liu felt that the matter could be discussed at any location and did not necessarily have to be at a specific place.

The chairs were a little dusty, so Chiu Yue and the other maids used their handkerchief to wipe them clean before asking everyone to sit down.

Before they started discussing, there was still one more problem that was not resolved; Lie Dou was still holding onto Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ and crying out. Wei Chiu Niang saw his anxious face full of sweat so she walked over behind him and said, “I’ve told you many times before, you shouldn’t quarrel with him and argue loudly, but you still wouldn’t listen.”

DD: Lady Wei...I...I’ll never ... argue with him again. Hurry and make him wake up.

WQN: It’s not like you have never seen him faint from seeing blood. In a short while, he will eventually wake up, there’s no need to worry.

DD: What do you mean a short while? It’s already been a long time.

WQN: You don’t need to worry. Just wait a while longer, but put him down first so he can rest a bit. DD: No, no. I don’t want to put him down!

Lie Zhong Liu eventually tells Lie Dou to carry Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ to a shaded place outside to rest, mentioning that Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ likes shaded cool areas and by doing so, he will wake up faster.

After hearing that, Lie Dou took Lie Zhong Liu’s advice and carried Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ outside. Once he left, everyone inside the room let out a sigh of relief since it would be difficult to discuss national affairs while someone was emotionally crying on the side.

“Prime Minister, can we continue now?” Zi Yan asked.

Qian Lin, who was sitting beside him suddenly chuckled a bit.

Zi Yan had trained with him for several years so they were very familiar with each other. He turned to look at Qian Lin, “What are you laughing about?”

QL: I’ve guessed that you would be anxious. What a shame, since you usually states that you want to learn His Majesty’s ways of staying calm.

ZY: You’ve already received the task of guarding Yue Zhong, so naturally you’re not anxious. (He turned to looked at Lie Zhong Liu) Prime Minister, please a.s.sign a task for me, I’m currently very anxious to know.”

LZL: Generals have to split up with one inside and one outside. If Qian Lin is guarding within the city, then...

FM: Then Zi Yan should be on the outside.

Lie Zhong Liu didn’t mind Feng Ming chipping in his thoughts as he simply nodded and continued, “Regarding the outside task, it’s not as simple as guarding Yue Zhong City on the outside. But rather it is to protect the safety of everyone within the city so that Yong Yin Kingdom and other nations will not attack it.”

RH: Even though this place is complex, the high walls built insurance, but if the city is surrounded by a large army, then it’ll only be a matter of time before the defense is broken down. Even if Qian Lin has potential, he can only ensure safety for at most one day.

QL: What do you mean only one day?

Confidence ran across Qian Lin’s young face, he generously laughed, “If they wish to break down Yue Zhong’s defense then at most they will need to leave behind at least one hundred thousand bodies. I want future enemies to have nightmares when they hear my name.”

ZY: One hundred thousand? Please don’t exaggerate. You’re already considered skillful if you were to leave behind fifty thousand bodies.

LE: Zi Yan, you should let him enjoy himself a bit, why bother to burst his bubble?

Everyone was laughing, but they understood why Lie Zhong Liu gave the responsibility of guarding the city to Qian Lin. If in the future enemy armies did approached the city, in order to build a foundation for Rong Tian to return to Xi Lei, Qian Lin will definitely defend the city wholeheartedly without retreating.

LZL: Yue Zhong is a small city and not many people understands the overall structure of it or the person who had painstakingly constructed it; therefore, not many nations pay attention to it. Even if Rong Tong knew His Majesty had occupied this city, but with his current state of mind, as long as His Majesty make no sudden movement against him, then it’s enough. So for the time being, he will not take action against Yue Zhong.

LE: But Rong Tong is not a foolish person. He will eventually know that His Majesty has occupied Yue Zhong and will take action sooner or later. Wouldn’t he take this opportunity to make the first move?

LZL: Rong Tong will not take action.

Qian Lin did not wait for Lie Zhong Liu to explain since he answered Lie Er’s question on behalf of Lie Zhong Liu.

QL: Didn’t His Majesty already said so? Rong Tong’s has yet to firmly secure his position on the throne as he still haven’t managed to gain full military power within his hands. The one thing he is worried about now is to hold all the power in his control. Furthermore, even if he wishes to attack Yue Zhong, he still has to receive permission from his uncle to do so. Everyone knows of our Majesty’s strength, so I’m afraid that his initiation to provoke our Majesty will meet with opposition.

CY: Then Yue Zhong should be fairly safe right now. Xi Lei’s troops will not come here to attack. Zhao Bei and our Majesty has no hatred so they won’t bother to attack. As for Tong Kingdom...

CX: The King of Tong Kingdom has just died, so they don’t have much effort to pay attention to this small city.

CL: Praying to the heavens, as long as there are no fighting, then it’s good. If there is battle, then Qian Lin has to stay here until His Majesty is in need of this city.

Chiu Lan did not know much about military affairs so after she said a few sentences, most of the men chuckled.

She didn’t know why they were laughing so she looked over at Rong Hu, “Did I say something wrong?”

RH: No, but we know that not going into battle is the best option.

LE: That’s right. However...let’s not forget that Yue Zhong is a city within Yong Yin’s territory. they will not just easily let us occupy a city of theirs. Chiu Lan, just think about it. Would you and my brother allow Chiu Yue to “urinate” on your bed? Whether it is only a few drops and the smell is not completely bad, aiya ~

Lie Er let out a sudden scream after he was slapped in the back of the head. Lie Er clutched his head and turned around grimacing in pain. The person who slapped him was Feng Ming.

FM: You never seem to put in any good words for Chiu Yue, do you? CY: Duke Ming slapped him well!

After hearing that Yong Yin was not as safe as she had thought, Chiu Lan felt ashamed about what she said earlier; however, Rong Hu comforted her and told her that her words were not wrong and that not battling is a good thing.

ZY: Then Prime Minister, we don’t have to worry about the three neighboring kingdoms, but what about Yong Yin then? Although Yue Zhong is a small city, the time that we occupied it we had deliberately blocked the gates in order to prevent news of this from spreading outside. But this news cannot be kept hidden for long, Yong Yin King will soon learn that Yue Zhong had been overtaken.

RH: Even though Yue Zhong is a small city, it is still a part of Yong Yin’s territory. Even if it’s for Yong Yin’s reputation, Yong Yin King will not allow this matter to be ignored.

Lie Zhong Liu revealed an enigmatic smile; he lowered his head slightly to sip the hot tea. Wei Chiu Niang fiercely grabbed his cup and placed it down on the table. “Hey, act like a Prime Minister. If you want to say something just say it, don’t just take your precious time!”

LZL: The city of Yue Zhong has Qian Lin to defend it from within, so we’ll just send someone to deal with the royal family of Yong Yin.

“Deal with the royal family of Yong Yin?”

LZL: Don’t worry Duke Ming, I didn’t say I want to create harm to Yong Yin King. Instead, I want to create an agreement with them so that they will allow us to temporary stay within this city.

ZY: Prime Minister’s plan is very good, but in order to persuade him is not an easy thing. Yong Yin is however a nation and is also an ally of Rong Tong. How can they be willing to let us stay within this city?

LZL: Then we will have to depend on Lie Er’s ability. FM: Lie Er? Prime Minister wants Lie Er to...

Lie Er has a deep relations.h.i.+p to Yong Yin kingdom. He is very familiar with the character and temperament of Yong Yin King and Yong Yin Prince. So if anyone can accomplish this, then the only person who can do it is Lie Er.

Feng Ming wanted to say a few more words, but Lie Er seemed to be in high spirits and immediately replied, “Just leave this to me. Your Majesty and Duke Ming, please rest a.s.sured. I understand the royal family of Yong Yin the best, after this meeting ends, I will immediately set out to complete this mission.”

Feng Ming was silent. He really did not want Lie Er to leave his side.

That year when Lie Er was sent to Yong Yin as a spy by orders of Rong Tian, every action he took was already very dangerous. Later he was sent to follow Feng Ming on a diplomatic trip and almost met with danger. And now, he wanted to take on a dangerous mission by himself.

Lie Zhong Liu pretended not to see Feng Ming’s depressed expression and asked Lie Er, “What are your plans?”

LE: I will go find Yong Yi, help him regain the Crown Prince t.i.tle, and then make a proposal to Yong Yin King, requesting for the small city of Yue Zhong.

LZL: If someone within Yong Yin royalty family impede your plans, then what will you do?

LE: Among the royal family of Yong Yin, none of them has high ambition; instead, they only quarrel within. Even if someone were to impede the plans of requesting the city, I will take advantage of their personal conflict to deal with them. Yue Zhong is not a large city, Yong Yin King will accept this request. Once this city is within the jurisdiction of Yong Yi, the rest will be easy. Yong Yi will have full ent.i.tlement and as an ally to His Majesty, he can invite His Majesty as a guest here.

QL: That’s right! We are here as guests, who would dare say that we have captured Yue Zhong? There is no such thing.

LZL: Good, this was what I was thinking. Since you have set the plan, then you will not need my suggestion. (pointing at Rong Hu) I’ll give you this talisman, it will be the source of money supply for you. When you are in Yong Yin, as long as you request for money, just look for your brother. He will be handling Duke Ming’s possessions. However much money you need, he can give you that much.

LE: That’s even better! Everyone within Yong Yin royal family are greedy. If there’s a bribe, then they will be unanimous. Even if Crown Prince Yong Quan objects to the matter, he wouldn’t be able to do a thing.

Rong Tian was sitting beside Feng Ming, he lowered his head and whispered to him, “Didn’t you wanted to learn how to run a country? The best teacher is right in front of you. From the beginning, Prime Minister had already decided for Rong Hu to handle Xiao family’s finance for you, but in fact he wanted Rong Hu to cooperate with Lie Er.”

FM: I know, this is the initial plan before making any decisions.

RT: You’re right. With him here, our days of battling will be much shorter in time.

FM: After the world is at peace, we can be together and have fun every day, go to the plains, climb the mountains, and might even head out to the sea.

Rong Tian didn’t expect to hear such lovely words coming out from Feng Ming’s mouth.

RT: No matter if we conquer the world or not, as long as you agree, I"m willing to go anywhere with you.

Next to them, Zi Yan’s discontent voice rang out, “Prime Minister, you’re not being fair. Didn’t you say that the tasks outside of Yue Zhong will be a.s.signed to me? So why are you giving it to Lie Er? Lie Er already has his a.s.signed mission, so what about me?”

Lie Er patted Zi Yan on the shoulders, “Bro, Prime Minister isn’t being unfair, it’s just only I can accomplish this task. Yong Yi only listens to me.”

CY: You’re so full of yourself. We still don’t know who listens to who here.

RH: Zi Yan, you don’t need to worry. You will have your own mission. (turning to Lie Zhong Liu) Isn’t that right, Prime Minister?

“Not right.” Lie Zhong Liu shook his head, “I don’t have any tasks a.s.signed for Zi Yan.”

Lie Zhong Liu gave a smug look around the crowd. “If Zi Yan wants to do something, then he has to be a.s.signed by His Majesty.” He turned to face Rong Tian, “I have used my power as Prime Minister and put His Majesty’s four men to good use: Mian Ya, Qian Lin, Lie Er, and Rong Hu. As for Zi Yan, I will leave him under His Majesty’s command.”

This one move by Lie Zhong Liu, retreating with limit, had displayed his full potential as Prime Minister gracefully. Even Rong Tian was amused by him that he laughed. After a few hearty laughter, Rong Tian asked Lie Zhong Liu, “First, I would like to clearly ask, does Prime Minister really want me to issue the order?”

“Does Your Majesty really decide to listen to my suggestion?”

RT: Didn’t I already make the promise? Not only me, but even Feng Ming will be under your command? If a King does not keep his promise, then how can he be qualified to govern a nation and rule over his people? Prime Minister has many well-thought out plans, I would like to witness your work first-hand. I believe that you have already thought of what I should do so let’s not waste any more time, let us hear it.

Since he was readily direct, Lie Zhong Liu no longer refused.

To be honest, Rong Tian does not have much manpower right now. His troops are very limited, but to use them to unify the world is simply an impossible task.

With the current situation, Lie Zhong Liu have racked his brains for a long time to think of a good strategy to benefit everyone and use their contributing abilities to create leverage, so everyone will play a bigger role.

How can Lie Zhong Liu miss out on the huge resource Rong Tian will bring?

Receiving Rong Tian’s answer, Lie Zhong Liu immediately gave his command without hesitation, “Right now, we need to acc.u.mulate the amount of power His Majesty has on hand in order to provide the best outcome. That day, when Your Majesty was battling with Rong Tong, you threw away your throne in order to rush to Dong Fan to rescue Duke Ming. By doing so, you must had already thought of a plan to regain the throne in the future. Judging by Your Majesty’s personality, I do not believe that you wouldn’t have secretly arranged for a set of troops elsewhere, awaiting for future usage.”

Rong Tian straight-forwardly replied, “For Prime Minister to guess this, it is quite impressive.”

“Could those hidden troops be within Xi Lei’s territory?”

Everyone was surprised after hearing Lie Zhong Liu’s remark.

LZL: Within Xi Lei, I’m convinced that His Majesty already set an ambush troop, but as precaution, His Majesty must also have a set of hidden troops outside of Xi Lei. Tong Kingdom has always been in conflict with Xi Lei, for His Majesty to hide his troops there is highly unlikely. Even though Yong Yin and Xi Lei have a good relations.h.i.+p, but it borders many different kingdoms, including Tong Kingdom and Li Kingdom, creating many negative variables. When deducting these

possibilities, the neighboring nation, Zhao Bei, is the best place to hide the troops.

After finis.h.i.+ng, he smiled at Rong Tian. As for everyone else, they were all confused.

Zi Yan and Qian Lin looked at each other.

They were both part of the hidden troops Rong Tian had stationed at Xi Lei, but after Rong Tong took over the throne, Rong Tian immediately ordered them to leave and rushed over to Dong Fan.

They never knew that Rong Tian also had another set of troops stationed at Zhao Bei.

Looking into Lie Zhong Liu’s insightful eyes, Rong Tian revealed a cunning smile and then suddenly laughed as he pointed at Lie Zhong Liu and turned over to look at Feng Ming, “If Prime Minister a.s.sisted Li Kingdom, then I’m afraid the two of us would have died without a trace.”

After he finished, Rong Tian nodded at Lie Zhong Liu and replied, “I do have troops stationed in Zhao Bei. They are the last set of power I have, if it’s not a last resort, I will definitely not use them.”

“Right now would be considered last resort.” Lie Zhong Liu continued to ask, “Where are they hidden?”

“A small fis.h.i.+ng village along the banks of Mei River.”

“Brilliant!” Lie Zhong Liu suddenly clapped his hands, pleased with Rong Tian’s answer, “Your Majesty is very wise in choosing this location. If something were to happen, they can head towards Mei River into Aman River without having to worry about the expedition and being labor intensive. Also since it’s a fis.h.i.+ng vessel, they can easily travel in concealment, not having to worry about being exposed. Can I ask how many troops are there?”

“Not much.” Rong Tian held up one finger, “Only ten thousand.”

“Ten thousand?”

This time, Lie Zhong Liu was startled by the number, he suspiciously asked, “That many people, even if they are secretly hidden in a small fis.h.i.+ng village, they can’t possibly hide from Zhao Bei King without being discovered.”

“Originally, I stationed three thousand people there, but since the battle at Aman River, the number increased to ten thousand.” Rong Tian gave a faint smile and continued, “Ten thousand troops

grouped together in one place will definitely arouse attention, but Mei River banks is very long. Along the two sides, a village would have six to seven hundred villagers. With each villages connected to each other, twenty or thirty villages is enough for us, the rest are mostly barren land. The population of Zhao Bei usually changes from time to time, the guards stationed there also change frequently, new local officials also are not aware of how the villages came to be, they just occasionally come by and ask a few questions. That’s right, our fis.h.i.+ng village had to pay taxes each year to Zhao Bei.”

Everyone laughed.

Lie Zhong Liu was very happy, he only expected the troops in Zhao Bei to be five thousand. Now that the number doubled, it was like floating on air. “If that’s the case, then I request Your Majesty to immediately deploy your elite troops secretly to Dong Fan.”

“Dong Fan?”

“Of course, Dong Fan.” Lie Zhong Liu explained, “Xi Lei is already in the hands of Rong Tong, so we can’t touch it for now. Yue Zhong is a small city, we can only let Qian Lin stay here and guard it. If Your Majesty or Duke Ming were to stay here, the other kingdoms will be on high alert, bringing increased risks for Yue Zhong. We only have Dong Fan, a place where Your Majesty can have the best foothold.”

Chapter 10

Rong Tian nodded in favor, “If that’s the case, I will personally write a secret order, allowing Zi Yan to sneak into Zhao Bei and secretly deploy the troops.”

“No, Your Majesty must make the trip personally.” Lie Zhong Liu said with a serious look, “Your Majesty should not underestimate this matter. Our troops are scarce right now and these ten thousands soldiers are not a small number, we cannot be negligent about it. Without these elite troops, it would be difficult for us to take immediate control of the situation in Dong Fan. If we cannot control the situation in Dong Fan then Your Majesty cannot establish factories to create weapons and cannot recruit soldiers or other possible priorities at hand.”

Feng Ming did not expect Lie Zhong Liu to think far ahead and was surprised he even thought about building weapon factories and recruiting soldiers.

LZL: Your Majesty, please think about it. Dong Fan just met with smallpox so their soldiers will be sick if not dead. Its military strength is greatly reduced. If in the future, Your Majesty wishes to

unify the world, you would need a strong army. In order to restructure a powerful army, outside troops and veteran generals will be essential to the training. Once Your Majesty deploys these ten thousand elite troops to Dong Fan, within half a year later, you will have three times as many troops.

Everyone nodded in awe and complete admiration regarding Lie Zhong Liu’s words.

LZL: Therefore, we must be careful at this time. What I’m most afraid of is their journey to Dong Fan;the ten thousand troops will need to pa.s.s through many different nations. If their movement is exposed, wouldn’t the other kingdoms swallow our troops up like they’re eating dumplings? That’s why Your Majesty need to personally lead them and sneak them into Dong Fan. Take advantage of the time and make decisions according to the situation, you must not leave the responsibility to another person to avoid any future problems.

RT: What Prime Minister said is very right, I shouldn’t be careless. After this meeting ends, I will immediately head to Zhao Bei and bring these troops safely to Dong Fan. Zi Yan will bring 300 soldiers under my command and sneak into Zhao Bei.

ZY: Understood.

LZL: Good! After today’s meeting, other than Qian Lin and the guards stationed in Yue Zhong, everyone else will need to prepare for the journey tomorrow. I will leave a little later since I’ll be waiting for Empress Dowager to arrive here. Afterwards, we’ll be heading to Dong Fan and meeting up with His Majesty at the capital.

LE: If Prime Minister didn’t mention it, I would have forgotten that Empress Dowager is on her way here.

“That’s why he is the Prime Minister; everything is taken into account under his watch.”

CY: Is Lady Lie also coming along with Prime Minister, returning to Dong Fan?

After being called out by Chiu Yue, Wei Chiu Niang turned around and glanced at Lie Zhong Liu.

How would Lie Zhong Liu dare to order his wife around? He lowered his head and started grinning, “My Lady, you can stay wherever you like to stay.”

WCN: You don’t need to pretend in front of me, didn’t you already guess that I won’t be leaving the city of Yue Zhong?

LZL: If you prefer to stay here in Yue Zhong then it’s not something bad. It’s just that when I’m at Dong Fan, I will be thinking of you every day.

WCN: I don’t need you to think of me.

Without a care, Wei Chiu Niang turned her head and faced Qian Lin, “You better guard my city of Yue Zhong well. If Yue Zhong meets with trouble, then you don’t need to wait for the enemies to invade, I will be the first person to stab you with my sword.” Her very serious tone did not have any hint of joking around.

Wei Chiu Niang’s warning gave Qian Lin a shock, he didn’t know whether to laugh or cry; thus, he didn’t know how to respond to her.

He saw Wei Chiu Niang turned her back and stared at Lie Zhong Liu, “Seems like you’re smart, you know how to choose someone who is clever. Well, I do know that you never had good intentions, always trying to steal a glimpse of the Wei family military guide.”

Even though Lie Zhong Liu was being lectured by his wife, he still put on a smile and even bowed down at her, “I hope My Lady will be merciful.”

Those who were listening to their conversation couldn’t understand a single word and were confused. Wei Chiu Niang again nodded her head and sighed, “This time I’ll let it go, but I have to give a punishment. Who would have known that Yue Zhong would fall into his hands? My ancestors had worked hard to contribute to it, so I can’t allow it to be buried.”

No one knows why, but when Lie Zhong Liu heard those words, he was ecstatic and rushed over to grab Qian Lin by the wrist. “Congratulations, hurry and bow down to your Master.”

Qian Lin seemed confused, but did not dare to argue even when he was being pulled forcefully by the wrist and pushed in front of Wei Chiu Niang.

“Hurry and call her ‘Master.’”

“Ah? Prime Minister, this...”

“Don’t be wordy, just quickly say it.”

Everyone was staring with wide eyes and with a suspicious look on their faces, but they all knew how amazing Lie Zhong Liu was. This Prime Minister had done many things and no matter how strange they were, all of them had their own reasons; therefore, no one bothered to intervene.

Qian Lin stood in front of Wei Chiu Niang with an inscrutable look on his face. “Prime Minister.”

“Quickly, say it!”

Lie Zhong Liu was the Prime Minister and considering this fact, he was a superior to him so it was one’s duty as a subordinate to obey orders. Lie Zhong Liu insisted him to call Wei Chiu Niang, ‘Master,’ so he just had to obey him. With a confused expression while looking at Wei Chiu Niang, Qian Lin called out, “Master.”

Whether it was because of Lie Zhong Liu’s brutality in dragging Qian Lin in front of her or the word “Master” that strangely came out of Qian Lin’s mouth, it made Wei Chiu Niang’s lips curve upward into a smile.

WCN: I have never seen a reluctant disciple wors.h.i.+ping his Master like this. (She glanced over at Lie Zhong Liu and sighed) Sure enough, as a Prime Minister, you would bring good things for me. However, when there is hards.h.i.+p, there is no guarantee that you might carry me off and sell me to Xi Lei King as payment.

LZL: No way! Absolutely not!

Wei Chiu Niang ignored him and switched her attention over to the embarra.s.sed Qian Lin, “Don’t worry, once you call me Master, you won’t have to suffer. What your Prime Minister sees as important is not me, but the Wei ancestral military strategy book that was left behind.”

Her words startled the whole crowd in the room.

Even Rong Tian who was normally calm, couldn’t help from being enthused.

Isn’t Wei Chiu Niang’s ancestor, the great and all-powerful General Wei Qian?

“Could it be that General Wei had handed down his military strategy book?” Rong Tian asked.

“That’s right.”

A dull sound rang out from the hall. Originally, Qian Lin was standing in front of Wei Chiu Niang, but now his knees fell below him, carrying an expression of disbelief.

All of the soldiers and generals have all wors.h.i.+pped the Great General Wei as their most admired idol.

He didn’t know what kind of luck he had, but not only did he meet the descendant of General Wei, he even got the chance to learn from the long kept-secret of Wei family ancestral military strategy book.

If General Wei did leave behind a handwritten military guide, then how precious would that be? Just thinking about it for a moment is enough to seem like a dream.

“Qian...Qian Lin, gives his greeting to Master.” Qian Lin was trembling with excitement that his lips were quivering. With an incomparable wors.h.i.+p, he gave Wei Chiu Niang a respectable greeting.

Wei Qiu Niang received his bow and after examining him for a while, she said, “Stand up.” Seeing Qian Lin picking himself up from the ground, she carefully scrutinized his behavior and appearance. He had a straight nose, eyes full of determination and he seems more agile and gallant than a regular person, which made her secretly nod in approval.

Lie Zhong Liu’s judgment seems very good indeed.

Ever since General Wei pa.s.sed away, the Wei family had kept his painstakingly handwritten military strategy as a secret. However, none of his descendants had enough talent to study those strategies.

Also, since Yong Yin royal family no longer value the Wei family, they never had an opportunity to utilize this “Art of War.”

Zi Yan walked over to share the excitement with Qian Lin, upon receiving such blessed fortune, “You’ve become the successor of General Wei, now no one else can compete with you on the

battlefield. In the future, if His Majesty send troops on the battlefield, I will have to be under your command then.”

LZL: Zi Yan, you’re wrong. The Art of War is an impermanent, just like a textbook, learning to write is just the first step. After learning to write, it doesn’t necessary mean one can write a wonderful article. The reason why I chose Qian Lin to defend Yue Zhong and learn from Wei ancestral Art of War is because I believe he has the talent and his character has many similarities to General Wei. Compared to you, Qian Lin can easily understand General Wei’s strategies. As for you...

Zi Yan’s forehead was sweating from listening to Lie Zhong Liu’s words. He felt ashamed and when Lie Zhong Liu started mentioning about him, he quickly bowed submissively and respectfully said, “I’m pleased to listen to Prime Minister’s guidance.”

LZL: Your character is different from Qian Lin. You’re very careful and more meticulous than Qian Lin. As for being mindfully agile and looking for a solution out of hards.h.i.+p in abnormal situations, Qian Lin cannot compete with you. (he paused as he looked down at Zi Yan and continued in a gentle kind voice) That is why I chose you to follow along with His Majesty, risking danger to sneak into Zhao Bei. The situation will be more severe with unpredictable changes, which can stimulate your potential. Maybe in the future, you will find your own path and develop a set of strategies on your own.

After listening to these earnest words of expectation, Zi Yan was filled with grat.i.tude that his eyes were slightly red. His throat tightened up so he couldn’t say anything and could only respectfully bow down at Lie Zhong Liu.

Feng Ming saw that everyone seemed to have their own mission and was curious if Lie Zhong Liu had anything for him to do.

LZL: Of course Duke Ming has a task. No need to worry, the most important task is left for you. Rong Tian’s face became pale.

Chiu Lan curiously asked, “Isn’t Duke Ming accompanying Prime Minister and Empress Dowager back to Dong Fan?”

“Of course not.”

“Ah? Then what does Prime Minister want Duke Ming to do?”

RH: Even though His Majesty said that Prime Minister can command Duke Ming, but as to where Duke Ming should go, I suggest Prime Minister be extremely cautious. Duke Ming is already a target of many different nations. No matter what becomes of Xi Lei, His Majesty would still protect him from anyone who dares to bring harm to Duke Ming, causing him to meet with numerous dangers. Since the situation is like this, we must be more diligent in protecting Duke Ming. Overall, Dong Fan seems to be the most suitable place for Duke Ming right now.

The relaxed atmosphere suddenly became tense.

Lie Zhong Liu already predicted the outcome and was not willing to change his mind just by Rong Hu’s mere speech. He approached Feng Ming and stared straight into his clear crystal eyes, he smiled as he said, “Duke Ming, I have a fun and exciting mission reserved just for you, are you afraid?”

When Feng Ming heard the words “fun and exciting,” he felt eager inside.

Seeing his eyes s.h.i.+ning with antic.i.p.ation, Rong Tian secretly scolded him inside his mind. He gave a soft cough and pulled Lie Zhong Liu aside, “Prime Minister, can you first tell me what mission you intend to send Feng Ming on?”

Lie Zhong Liu had only been Xi Lei’s Prime Minister for one day, but his words were filled with a hidden meaning beyond anyone’s expectation.

This is certainly a good thing.

But if it is something that will create incredible inconvenience to Feng Ming, then he isn"t a good person either.

All of them knew that Lie Zhong Liu’s words and actions are hard to figure out. After Rong Tian set the question, they all held their breaths in antic.i.p.ation, waiting to hear what plans Lie Zhong Liu had for Feng Ming.

He blinked his eyes and looked slightly upward as if reading poetry, then he replied in a slow pace, “Your Majesty has made a promise to me, not only Your Majesty, but also Duke Ming will be under my command. Haha, if a King doesn’t keep his promise then how can he be qualified to govern a nation and rule over his people?”

Seeing how he mentioned the words Rong Tian said earlier, everyone was a bit surprised but became amused after understanding the meaning behind it.

It seemed that Lie Zhong Liu purposely provoked Rong Tian, it wasn’t because he simply wanted Rong Tian to obediently leave for Zhao Bei, but it was to prepare for Rong Tian’s pressure against the situation of commanding Feng Ming.

Rong Tian’s face became pale. Since Lie Zhong Liu thought beforehand of setting a trap when he made such a statement, needless to say, the mission he planned on having Feng Ming accomplish must be something that Rong Tian would never approve of.

“I clearly remember what I said,” his sharp piercing eyes were staring at Lie Zhong Liu and in an unnatural way, he said, “Whatever plan you have for Feng Ming, just happily say it out at once!”

“Your Majesty, please rest a.s.sured. Not only is this mission exciting, it is also extremely easy.” Lie Zhong Liu continued, “I want Duke Ming to take a trip through the different nations.”

LE: Prime Minister wants Duke Ming to sneak into other nations. That can’t be done, it’s too dangerous!!”

Chiu Yue and the other maids also desperately shook their heads.

“Not sneak into, but to loudly sound the drums and gongs, using the t.i.tle of Young Master Xiao to declare your trip to inspect the s.h.i.+pping industry.” Lie Zhong Liu leisurely said, “First, gather the large s.h.i.+ps of the Xiao family, from Yong Yin, you’ll follow the Aman River to Tong Kingdom. Then you will disembark and travel north to Bo Jian, Bei Qi, and Dong Fan. After taking a break, you’ll continue onward to Pu Rong and Yan Ting. What does Duke Ming think of this?”

While he was saying a list of nation names, Feng Ming was counting them with his fingers and trying hard to imagine the map of the eleven kingdoms from memory. In the end, he was tongue- tied as he answered, “This...this is like taking a trip around the world~~”

Leaving out Zhao Bei, Xi Lei, Li Kingdom and Fan Jia of course. “Yes, it’s very exciting, isn’t it?”

“It is exciting, however...”

“It’s too dangerous,” Lie Er interrupted, “Right now, His Majesty has yet to return Xi Lei, those nations we have good relations with will not necessary respect His Majesty and treat Duke Ming with courtesy. Not to mention that Tong Kingdom and Bei Qi are two nations in which we have hostile relations with.”

Rong Tian replied in a low voice, “I don’t agree.”

“Ah?” Lie Zhong Liu asked, “Could it be that Your Majesty wants to change your mind?”

“As long as it puts Feng Ming’s life in danger, I will never agree to it.”

Lie Zhong Liu smiled brightly, “Your Majesty does not intend to keep your promise?”

“I can agree to anything Prime Minister suggests, but anything that involves Feng Ming’s safety needs to be reconsidered.”

“Alright.” Lie Zhong Liu nodded.

Still worrying that the two would continue the conflict, Chiu Lan exhaled a breath before taking the opportunity of the ease atmosphere to gently speak, “Then Prime Minister should agree to reconsider this.”

“Fine, we’ll reconsider. Since His Majesty changed his mind, then I, Lie Zhong Liu, will immediately resign my post as Prime Minister. We will become strangers from now on, with no relation with each other at all.”

His comment made the whole room become dead quiet. Everyone stopped breathing and was pale white.

Rong Tian had never been as gloomy as he was at that moment.

He had always been arrogant and with the unhappy look on his face, other people would have been scared silly and begging for mercy. For Lie Zhong Liu to not fear death, he would be the first person Rong Tian encountered. As a courtier to a sovereign and yet he dares to threaten the King of Xi Lei.

“Are you threatening me?” The angrier he was inside, the more it did not show up on his calm face. Rong Tian forced a snicker.

Lie Zhong Liu knew he was angry, but was not even a bit scared, he gave a rebellious look, “If a King cannot keep his promise then he cannot be trustworthy. How can he even be worthy of conquering the world? Why would Lie Zhong Liu put in his hard work and effort thinking up of plans for this person?”

Being mocked by him, Rong Tian had a sudden loss for words and couldn’t find anything to say in response.

It was Rong Tian who was prideful earlier and openly said that Duke Ming could also be under Lie Zhong Liu’s command.

Feng Ming was sitting beside Rong Tian and could feel the violent sparks erupting between the two so he quickly tried to appease them, “Please don’t argue, let’s all discuss it slowly. Please don’t be upset Prime Minister. You are the Prime Minister of one nation, you can’t just simply resign. Rong Tian is a King so he has to keep his promise and cannot go back on his words.”

Only he has the audacity to scold at Lie Zhong Liu and Rong Tian like that. After reprimanding them, he comfortably ordered, “The atmosphere here is too tense, everyone must be thirsty so hurry and bring up the tea.”

Although Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing were frightened, they acted quickly and immediately ran to the small pantry and came back with a pot of hot tea. Feng Ming personally poured a cup for Rong Tian.

Facing the smiling Feng Ming, Rong Tian’s inner anger was temporarily contained. He received the cup of tea and sipped a mouthful.

The tense atmosphere seemed to subside a bit.

Feng Ming held another cup and stood in front of Lie Zhong Liu, who had a dismayed look on his face. “Prime Minister, please drink a cup of tea to calm down.”

Lie Zhong Liu stared for a moment at the cup of tea, he sighed as he accepted the cup, but did not immediately drink it. Instead, he placed it on the table and said, “Duke Ming, let’s talk in private.” After saying that, he took Feng Ming and went outside.

“Wait.” Rong Tian’s voice rang out from behind. Both of them stopped their pace.

Rong Tian placed the cup on the table and quickly walked beside Feng Ming. His hand held onto Feng Ming, but did not say a single word.

Feng Ming sighed, “I’m just going to speak with Prime Minister for a bit.”

RT: What is there to speak privately about? I am the King, there is nothing that I shouldn’t oversee.”

LZL: State Affairs is very important and every ranking officials and courtiers need to complete their duties well in order to have a world of peace and harmony. If Your Majesty oversees everything, what is the need for a Prime Minister and other officials?

RT: Even if I can’t oversee everything, I can still listen to the conversation, right?

Wei Chiu Niang, who had not made a sound suddenly stood up, and came forward to speak, “This place here is my residence after all. I request that everyone take a tour around the place with me. Lie Zhong Liu can still speak with Duke Ming, I will guarantee that during their conversation, Xi Lei King will not intervene and interrupt you. It will be the same for everyone else. If we do it like that, then it will no longer seem like a private chat, am I right?”

Everyone nodded in agreement, “That’s right. We will not interrupt.” “Not even a single word.”

“Not even a cough.”

“Even a fart is not welcome.”

Chiu Yue raised her eyebrow, “Lie Er, you’re really...”

Since his wife had made the suggestion, Lie Zhong Liu did not have the courage to dismiss it. RT: Then let’s do as Lady Lie said.

They were all relieved and at this time set off together. Lie Zhong Liu was standing on the left of Feng Ming, while Rong Tian who was guarding Feng Ming like a mother tiger, stood on the right. The rest of the group walked behind them.

LZL: Does Duke Ming believe that having the world is easy or governing the world is easy? Feng Ming was feeling nervous inside.

According to Lady Lie’s proposal, no one else could speak up for him so when Lie Zhong Liu gave the question, only Feng Ming could answer.

No different than a facing a huge exam.

What was frightening was the fact that Lie Zhong Liu was not in a good mood, so if Feng Ming’s answer did not please him, then maybe Lie Zhong Liu would hate him and high kick him.

The consequences could be very serious....

The more Feng Ming worried, the more his heart raced, he respectfully replied, “Having the world is not easy, governing the world is not as simple. I feel that governing the world is even more difficult than taking over the world. The reason is because even though we might understand the people, it doesn’t necessarily mean that we will govern the world in good way, just like the Qin Dynasty, etc..ah,..just pretend I didn’t say anything.”

Lie Zhong Liu stopped in his tracks, turned around to look at Feng Ming and smiled gently, “Duke Ming does not have to think about choosing your words, if there is something you wish to say, just say it. Right now, we are just chatting and not testing your knowledge.” After finis.h.i.+ng, he continued to walk leisurely onward.

Feng Ming’s forehead was covered in cold sweat. He secretly thought to himself, who dares to think that this is only chatting? It’s obviously an interrogation. He shrugged his shoulders and gave a hesitant chuckle, “I’m completely relaxed.”

One can say that Lie Zhong Liu’s att.i.tude towards Feng Ming is always better than when he is talking to Rong Tian.

LZL: Among the monarchs in the world, within those ten people, at least nine of them wish to unify the world. Out of those nine people, those who understand that governing the world is even harder than conquering it, are probably only four. The world is not a piece of meat that one can just take and swallow completely, believing that everything will be fine. The world is filled with many people, once someone conquers it, if that person doesn’t know how to govern it then there will be chaos, and many will once again be trampled upon.

FM: What Prime Minister speaks of is very true.

Chapter 11

LZL: From the point of view of many people, once this 4/10 of the monarch conquer the world, they would need to govern it and that would make them a wise King. But according to my view, the world should take priority. Having just a little knowledge and experience is not enough.

FM: That...

Feng Ming turned his head to take one glance at Rong Tian and then turned back to face Lie Zhong Liu, humbly asking him, “According to Prime Minister, what is considered a visionary monarch?”

Lie Zhong Liu was silent.

After some time, he let out a long sigh, “For Duke Ming to travel through each nation is indeed very dangerous, I cannot guarantee that Duke Ming will not experience any unexpected incidents. But if

Duke Ming does not make the trip, then the plan that I have created for Duke Ming cannot be played out. As a result, the so-called words I said about shortening the process of conquering the world will just become empty words.”

This man’s thinking is too bizarre, he just said that for someone to govern the world he needs to have insight. Just a short moment has pa.s.sed and yet he changed the topic to Feng Ming traveling to every nation, causing everyone to be confused while listening.

Fortunately, they all have a bit of understanding about him after being with him for some time. They know that once he comes up with a plan, he will take action. Although his behavior seems random, there are hidden meanings behind it so they all waited for him to continue.

FM: The mission to travel through each nation and the visionary aspect that Prime Minister just mentioned, how are they related? Can Prime Minister first explain your meaning of governing the world?

Can’t blame Feng Ming for being simple-minded.

In fact, it was Lie Zhong Liu fault, whose thinking was too complex, talking in a circle and then another circle, causing poor Feng Ming’s brain to spin about.

LZL: Governing the world compared to conquering it is much more difficult. I believe that both His Majesty and Duke Ming already understand this. But in order to govern the world, one must first conquer the world to prepare for governing it, what does His Majesty and Duke Ming think about this?

Rong Tian exposed in his demeanor that he was listening carefully.

LZL: Everyone perhaps knows that war will bring loss of life. In fact, it’s not just loss of life, but many things will be affected unexpectedly. The essence of the eleven nations for the past century will most likely be destroyed in a single day. The books, military strategies, medical remedies, music, generational secrets and cultural literature that have been handed down through the years, it would usually disappear during times of war. Those things are common, but it is still painful to know... For example, in Bei Qi, there was someone named Sun Meng, who was knowledgeable in botany and agriculture. He spent his whole life studying about the plants and soil, he knew during what time, season and even what soil and specifications would be effective in growing different kind of plants. I heard that the land he contributed had six to seven times the normal harvest of others.

“Oh...”

When Lie Er snuck into Bei Qi under Rong Tian’s order, he had heard of Sun Meng. Just when he was about to say “I also know this person,” he suddenly remembered that he cannot open his mouth so he immediately covered his mouth and swallowed back those words.

LZL: A person like that during the time of war would be no different than an ordinary person, once he meets a soldier, he will be killed. However, during the times of peace, he would be a rare talent. If Duke Ming can imagine for a bit, if this person could be retained, or at least for him to write down an agricultural manual and have it be made into books, which can be taught to others in the future.

Once the world is unified, every farming household will be able to have six to seven times the normal harvest, that would be a wonderful matter.

FM: I understand... Prime Minister wants me to travel through each nation so I could seek out rare talents from each of them and once it’s time to govern the world, their skills can be left behind for future successors.

That seems very moving.

Lie Zhong Liu is indeed Lie Zhong Liu, a true visionary of the world, it’s rare to find someone like him. Not only does he put military strength into account, he also places the world’s matter as priority and gives great importance to world culture.

Feeding the people is not enough when unifying the nation and governing it. A Great Dynasty must have a foundation of vast culture.

The cla.s.sics, poetry, ritual, music and a variety of folk art, which were all born from many generations of hard work and inspiration and made into a “magnificent culture,” how can one allow them to be brutally destroyed by war?

LZL: That is not the only case. I suggested Duke Ming to travel through each nation because there are three tasks I hope Duke Ming can accomplish on this trip. One, I request that while Duke Ming is in each city, you can collect the cla.s.sics, all records of talented literature and books, or lyrics or paintings. Many older original pieces might not be available, since once there is a war, I’m afraid that they can’t be found again. If there are several talented people with special skills, Duke Ming can offer to hire them, request them to write a manual, just in case we might need it in the future.

“Ah, I understand.” Feng Ming nodded his head.

As a modern-day person, Feng Ming was very much in favor of Lie Zhong Liu’s proposal and greatly admired his vision.

During World War II, wasn’t the United States the first one to go around the countries and gather talents of science, art, and literature and take them to their country?

Science is power and art is the source.

Later, the science and art of the United States substantially progressed and it became a powerful nation in the world.

LZL: Two, I request Duke Ming to use this opportunity to spread the news of “The Grace’s Order” for His Majesty. As for how to promote it, I suggest Duke Ming to figure that out.

“Ah.” Feng Ming nodded his head in response, but then scratched his head, “You want me to do it myself...”

This second point, he is well aware of it.

The purpose of promoting the Grace’s Order is to take a step further, diminis.h.i.+ng the division between n.o.ble status and servants among the people. How many people are willing to be born a servant? In the future, because of their character and understanding, they might not be willing to be opposed by others. Most likely, because of the fairness of this order, they might be willing to follow Rong Tian.

“The third thing...”

Feng Ming felt his hand was being held tightly; he looked up to meet with Rong Tian’s deep eyes.

The well-known Xi Lei King had a rare uneasy expression on his face; it seemed he wanted to say something, but since he had promised Wei Chiu Niang, he was anxious nonetheless.

Feng Ming knew his thoughts and whispered, “Let’s just finish listening to what Prime Minister has to say.”

LZL: ... Most importantly, I need Duke Ming to take this opportunity to prove to the world that as someone close to His Majesty, you can still work independently, that you have the ability to make decisions, to handle huge responsibility and manage problems without having to rely on His Majesty.

With the words Lie Zhong Liu just spoke, Feng Ming could not seem to move at all.

This comment happened to be the thing that was troubling him inside, an agony that he can’t seem to cure.

Rong Tian grabbed his hand, slightly trembling, it was obvious that Rong Tian was shaken up inside.

LZL: Even though Duke Ming is a talented person, proposing the idea of terracing, waterwheel, and other various benefits for the kingdom, also showing your divinity within Bo Jian’s palace and Dong Fan, please apologize for my straight-forwardness, but from many people’s point of view, Duke Ming is an object attached to Xi Lei King. The construction of the terraces and waterwheel are Duke Ming’s suggestions, but whoever can set it up can rule the nation. As for Bo Jian and Dong Fan, Duke Ming was held hostage against your will and forced to act accordingly, also, Xi Lei King had to take action in order to rescue you. I would like to ask Duke Ming, among the incidents that happened, those that witnessed the situations, how many of them in the world would say that Duke Ming is a brave, decisive and wise person?

This issue was like a stab into his bleeding wound.

Lie Zhong Liu had seen through Feng Ming, recalling the time when he was captured by several nations, just like a mouse, caught by one grasp, the feeling was still incredibly embarra.s.sing.

However, he was frank and was not angry at all, Feng Ming blus.h.i.+ng red, replied, “There’s none.”

LZL: Does Duke Ming want to become someone who can work independently and lend a helping hand in relieving His Majesty from trouble and grief?

“I really want to.” Feng Ming firmly nodded his head.

LZL: If you want to become a huge support, you will have to overcome obstacles; is Duke Ming ready for it?

“Yes.” Feng Ming nodded forcefully,

Rong Tian couldn’t bear it any longer as he uttered a deep sigh.

Feng Ming grabbed onto his hand as he turned to face Rong Tian, he gritted his teeth and pleaded with him, “I really want to take the trip, you’re not going to oppose it, are you?”

Rong Tian did not answer, his eyebrows were furrowed into one line. “I’m so ashamed...I’m Xi Lei Duke Ming...”

Everyone looked nervous, even Chiu Lan and the other maids standing behind them were crumpling their handkerchiefs into a crushed cabbage, all fearing that Rong Tian will nod in agreement and yet also afraid that Rong Tian will shake his head in objection.

If he agreed, then it would be hard for Duke Ming to avoid danger.

If he objected, then would Rong Tian embrace Duke Ming and guard him for a whole lifetime? Being confined within the palace and spoiled like a concubine?!

The Prime Minister’s suggestion is really a dilemma for anyone.

“Rong Tian...”

Rong Tian looked deeply into his eyes and after a long moment, he said, “The first two reasons are nothing to be concerned about, but after listening to the third reason, I knew you would agree to it. Even if I dare to oppose so you can’t take the trip, you wouldn’t be happy. Ah~ Who could bear to see your beautiful face frown every day?”

At this time, how can anyone even stop him from breaking the “don’t interrupt” agreement?

Feng Ming’s eyes suddenly lit up, “Then that means you agree to let me go?”

Rong Tian laughed hesitantly, “Can I even stop you?”

Feng Ming gave a loud cheer, as a bright smile blossomed across his face, like a child, he danced and held onto Rong Tian excitedly.

Rong Tian stretched out his arms to embrace the excited Feng Ming, he looked over at Lie Zhong Liu helplessly and bitterly shook his head, “Prime Minister, oh Prime Minister. It seems I have to admit defeat to you.”

Lie Zhong Liu did not have any of sign of arrogance on his face, he calmly asked, “Your Majesty aren’t intending on changing your mind, are you?”

“Can I even change my mind?” Rong Tian sighed, then with a serious face he said, “But Prime Minister must remember, it was you who wants to send Feng Ming away so you have to bring him safely back to me in the future. If there is any trace of error, I will never forgive you.”

“I understand.” Lie Zhong Liu bowed down, “I will do my best.”

Rong Tian was surprised. He didn’t imagine that after the strict warning, he got only a “I’ll do my best” response from Lie Zhong Liu.

He thought that with the chaotic world right now, wanting Lie Zhong Liu to ensure absolute safety for Feng Ming is impossible. Since that’s the case, even if Lie Zhong Liu said, “Duke Ming will not experience any danger,” it will just be a short guarantee like a shop peddler, which can’t compare to the truthful, “I’ll do my best.”

RT: Alright, I will look forward to your “I’ll do my best.”

After the meeting ended, everyone left on their own to take care of their own matter.

Rong Tian and Feng Ming brought along Rong Hu, Lie Er, Zi Yan back to the General’s estate. Lie Zhong Liu was the main planner and since he had much to do, once the meeting ended, he immediately disappeared.

Qian Lin was responsible for staying behind so he had no preparation for departure. However, he planned on heading outside of the city and doing an inspection. Before he could walk outside the courtyard, he encountered Wei Chiu Niang who happened to be walking the same way, feeling nervous he straightened himself up and respectfully greeted her, “Master.”

Wei Chiu Niang was a beauty, but unfortunately, she didn’t like to smile. She nodded at Qian Lin and asked, “Are you planning on patrolling the city?”

“Yes.”

“I was just thinking of doing the same, let’s go together.”

The two of them headed off in the same direction.

Since Wei Chiu Niang was his master and he was her disciple, he carefully walked half a step behind her.

Wei Chiu Niang was his master and as a female, she did not open her mouth so it was hard for Qian Lin to start a conversation. The two of them continued walking with one in front and the other following behind for half the block, the atmosphere became more awkward as they progressed.

Without anything else to do, Qian Lin focused his attention and began studying the image of Wei Chiu Niang’s back.

Looking from behind, Wei Chiu Niang had a small stature, tilted shoulders, which was indeed the shoulders of a beauty. If she is not wearing an armor, then it is difficult to guess that she is a Lieutenant of a city.

Although she seems gentle and warm, her gestures seem to hold a hidden sternness that no one would dare to disparage. Could this be inherited from the Great General Wei?

“What are you thinking about?” Wei Chiu Niang’s voice disrupted the thoughts within Qian Lin’s mind.

“Ah?” Qian Lin answered after feeling startled, “I...I wasn’t thinking about anything....”

“What do you think about Prime Minister’s request for Duke Ming to travel through each nation?”

After hearing the question clearly, Qian Lin’s heart fluttered, but he finally regained a bit of composure.

So it’s about this matter.

Qian Lin pondered for a moment before replying, “Prime Minister has a point for making Duke Ming travel to each nation and fulfilling three different things, but I think...” He hesitated and stopped.

Wei Chiu Niang impatiently said, “Since you already spoke, then continue. I hate people who hesitate mid-sentence.”

“Yes.” Qian Lin boldly answered, “This matter still needs Duke Ming to take the risk, but Prime Minister’s thoughts weren’t carefully crafted. Among these three things, the one that will make Duke Ming take immediate action is the third reason. To be practical and from the point of interest, if there is the third reason then there is no need for the first, while the second is the most important one. However, to collect talents and promote the Grace’s Order, all of these can be given to other people to do and does not necessarily requires Duke Ming to take a huge risk to make the trip. One must know that if it’s someone else then it won’t be a big deal, but if something were to happen to Duke Ming, then His Majesty would surely go mad.”

Wei Chiu Niang kept a constant pace, walking along the alley straight ahead, “So you think the third reason is not important?”

Qian Lin was going to say “Yes,” but then felt something was wrong. Wei Chiu Niang’s tone of voice made it clear that that was a wrong answer.

Wei Chiu Niang explained, “The reason why your Prime Minister wants Duke Ming to take the risk, is because he really want Duke Ming to face danger.”

Qian Lin was shocked.

Wasn’t it because those three things forced Duke Ming to take the risk? How can the real purpose be for Duke Ming to face danger?

Wei Chiu Niang did not have to look back at Qian Lin to know that he must have a puzzled look on his face, with the same icy tone she said, “Xi Lei Duke Ming is Xi Lei King’s fatal weakness. If someone wants to deal with Xi Lei King, they would first deal with Xi Lei Duke Ming. This is what other nations have concluded, and because of that, Duke Ming will always be targeted and captured. Your Prime Minister wants to make Xi Lei King’s fatal weakness no longer be a fatal weakness.”

“No longer have a fatal weakness?” Qian Lin muttered, his eyes suddenly lit up as if he just realized something in his mind, but cannot express it into words.

“Just like an open wound that is still bandaged up, it can easily bleed once a situation becomes worse. Let it be exposed under the sun and left to dry, the deeper it is, the more painful it is. Use the most potent medication, closing up the wound, turning the scar into a thick layer and then in the future, that area will be able to endure more damage than regular skin.” Wei Chiu Niang stopped and turned around, “When two armies are in battle, your weakness is something that your opponent will look for, to use against you. There is no way you can hide your weakness, but you can rethink about how to attack the enemy in front of you, using the weakness to confuse your opponent, and with a variety of tricks you can turn that weakness into your strength; thus, taking your enemies by surprise before they even have a chance to put up their guard.”

Since Qian Lin was selected by Lie Zhong Liu to be Wei Chiu Niang’s disciple, he must be extremely talented. After listening carefully, his mind began to run wild, his eyes lit up as he processed each word, “There is no way to hide your weakness, but you can use it to confuse your opponent....”

“On the battlefield, strength is not everything. If those who are weak can become strong, then they will have the ability to single-handedly kill off their opponent.” Wei Chiu Niang slowly explained, while looking at Qian Lin, she let out a long sigh, “You have to remember, this is the first point in Wei’s military strategy book.

Rong Tian and the rest headed back to the General’s estate. Since Lie Er was in charge of the task of Yong Yin’s royal family matter, he wanted to quickly return to his small residence to prepare for the trip tomorrow.

Zi Yan was ordered to follow Rong Tian so naturally he didn’t leave Rong Tian’s side.

Rong Hu was advised by Lie Zhong Liu to manage the Xiao family’s finance for Feng Ming; therefore, he needed Feng Ming’s cooperation and so he followed Rong Tian and the others into the small courtyard.

Chiu Lan and the other maids also didn’t dare to leave their side so they came along.

Once the seven of them entered the hall, Feng Ming made a gesture and everyone found their own seat, all secretly glancing at Rong Tian, who was sitting in the middle.

“Don’t be angry.” Feng Ming reached over to grab Rong Tian’s hand.

Rong Tian had already made his promise, but rethinking about Feng Ming risking himself, he felt miserable inside as if a cat was scratching him, facing Feng Ming he gave a smile, “I’m not angry. I know you really want to go on this trip, I understand.”

Feng Ming’s hand was both warm and soft.

Rong Tian took the hand that was holding his, opened it up and took a closer look at it. The fingers were smooth and white, long and beautiful, five flawless jade-like fingers.

In front of him was a seductive beauty, even a bit of rain and wind would make him distressed, so how can he be willing to close his eyes and allow this person to be sent into a situation filled with danger such as this?

He really hates himself for not finding Lie Zhong Liu and telling him he changed his mind, but yet purposely didn’t do so...

Everyone around was glancing at one another, they all knew that Rong Tian was feeling miserable inside.

With this deep affection, how will His Majesty make his departure tomorrow?

“Your Majesty,” Rong Hu boldly began, “Since Duke Ming will be departing, shouldn’t we make some preparation?”

Zi Yan also hesitantly advised, “When does Your Majesty plan on departing for Zhao Bei...”

“I am ready for departure any time, there’s no need for preparation.” Being reminded by them, Rong Tian turned to face them and said, “As for Feng Ming, since he’ll be leaving, everything should be prepared accordingly. Chiu Lan, Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing, divide up your duties to serve Feng Ming, all personal clothing and food. Make sure to serve him with devoted commitment.”

Chiu Lan quickly stood up on behalf of the three of them and replied, “Your servants will obey this order, we will look after Duke Ming and make personal arrangements, making sure that no one will come near Duke Ming.”

“As for protecting him...”

“Prime Minister asked me to manage Duke Ming’s finances, so I’ll be traveling along.” Rong Hu continued, “Since that’s the case, I’ll stay beside Duke Ming to protect him meanwhile recording his a.s.sets.”

Rong Tian nodded and continued reminding them, “Immediately send a message requesting Luo Deng to organize the large fleet of s.h.i.+ps near the pier of Aman River. The Xiao family has another group of skillful experts, whom are bodyguards designed to protect the wealthy businessmen. Order them to immediately abandon all business and protect Feng Ming. Doesn’t the Prime Minister want to beat the drums and sound the gongs loudly to declare your presence? Along the road, send this order down, while out on the river, sit on the Xiao’s most fancy large s.h.i.+p, there should be more than ten large s.h.i.+ps protecting the front and back. Once the river ends, abandon the s.h.i.+ps and ascend on sh.o.r.e, order a group of horse carriages to aid on the travel. Don’t worry about the cost, as long as the presentation is grandeur, it should show the standard of royalty.”

Feng Ming no longer felt bad about the cost, he saw that Rong Tian had gradually put aside his depressed expression to carefully plan for his trip as well as having large s.h.i.+ps and carriages to aid on the travel, he was extremely elated and couldn’t help blinking his eyes in excitement.

Rong Tian saw his expression, not only was he worried, he was also angry, and he tried to explain to him, “With such a grandeur presentation,the other nations will take notice of it.With your ident.i.ty, if you were to sneak into their territory and be discovered, then they can easily plot against you. Why not just travel honestly and use your t.i.tle as Young Master Xiao. Hopefully, that will allow the other nations to take into account Master Xiao’s reputation. At least, they won’t be foolish enough to capture you while you’re in their territory. In my opinion, they shouldn’t mobilize a ma.s.sive troop to deal with you.”

Feng Ming sat silently, obediently nodding and listening to Rong Tian. Rong Tian’s thinking along with Lie Zhong Liu are usually consistent.

Feng Ming was swaggering about, if the hostile nation is not Li Kingdom then the other nations in general should not cause any harm to Feng Ming.

Who would dare to bear the charges of killing Feng Ming?!

If Feng Ming was killed in their territory, then they would have to immediately face Rong Tian who would be furious after losing his lover. The other side would be facing Holy Master Xiao Zong’s divine swordplay along with Lady Yao Ye’s poisonous techniques without mercy, wouldn’t this be...putting one’s neck on the tip of a sword?

Feng Ming was nodding his head half understanding and half not, with a cute stupid look on his face, Rong Tian chuckled while lowering his head next to the young man, he reminded him, “You shouldn’t think that your status and background will mean that everything will be fine. They can stab you in the back once you leave Yue Zhong city, listen carefully to me, anytime, anywhere you go, you must bring along a group of highly skilled bodyguards. You also can’t be extremely curious and get tricked in coming out alone, becoming a small rabbit and not knowing you’ll be sold off.”

Sitting on the chair next to him, Feng Ming allowed him to touch his face, “I’m not that stupid. You better not underestimate me. This time outside, I will let you know Duke Ming’s true ability.”

He briskly laughed together with him, the heavy atmosphere within the room was lifted a lot.

Everyone who had a seat was feeling a bit at ease.

ZY: Your Majesty, please don’t worry. Prime Minister is not a reckless person. Since he dared to send Duke Ming on a trip like this, he must have thought about this trip for a long time and felt confident about it before suggesting it.

Lie Er also said, “With Your Majesty and two sets of Holy Master Xiao’s elite guards, along with my brother’s protection and the guards surrounding Duke Ming at all times, nothing will happen to him, so Your Majesty can rest a.s.sured. After I handle things in Yong Yin, I will immediately catch up with Duke Ming and aid him along the journey.”

Feng Ming was suddenly elated, “Lie Er, you must catch up quickly, having you along will be more enjoyable...”

Just then, a sudden burst of heavy footsteps came rolling in.

As the sound came closer, the louder it became. Not sure whose heavy footsteps they were, but it was like the whole ground below them, cracked along with each step.

Everyone turned to look towards the direction of the door. They all gave a loud, “Ah..” The footsteps were obviously just one person, but two figures appeared at the door.

The figures were tall and large, just like a standing tower, with the two of them standing side by side, they almost looked like two heavenly door keepers. They were Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ and Lie Dou – the two interesting master and servant.

On the right shoulder of Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ was also Little Autumn, who was sleeping curled up while waving its tail.

His chest and shoulders were at least two times larger than an ordinary person; therefore, Little Autumn did not have to worry about falling off while lying on top of it.

Chiu Lan remembered how Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ fainted, so when she saw him, she giggled while asking, “You big man, you finally woke up?”

“Why are you calling him big? Isn’t my stature comparing to him, even bigger?” Lie Dou fiercely called out on the unjust comment.

LZS: If she says that I’m a big man, then my stature is relatively big. DD: Nonsense, obviously I’m bigger.

LZS: How can you be bigger than me?

DD: How can I not?

Since they had all encountered the same scenario a while ago, seeing the two men staring at each other and quarreling again made everyone secretly yell out in panic. The two men continued to quarrel endlessly, giving everyone a headache from their loud argument.

They can’t really make Little Autumn bite Lie Er’s hand to draw blood and scare Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ until he faint, can they?

Lie Er, being the one with many tricks up his sleeves, he coughed once and said, “The two of you don’t need to argue anymore. I don’t care which one of you is bigger than the other, but as for having manly attributes, I feel that Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ is more of a man.”

Lie Dou was surprised, he immediately waved his large red sleeves, “You, you, you...how could you say that he is more like a man than I am?”

“Of course.” Lie Er put on a serious face and said, “A woman usually makes more noises, while a

man would be silent, it has always been that way. When counting the number of words you just said, you had said 47 words, while Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ only said 27 words. Therefore, you made more noises than he did, and that makes him more of a man than you.”

This time, Lie Dou was dumbfounded.

He had always argued with Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ while growing up, every time they argued, he would always try to win in the argument. As for the fact that women make more noise than men, this was something he had never heard of.

After hearing Lie Er’s explanation, Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ was smiling, facing Lie Dou, he said, “That makes sense! That makes sense! Women are usually loud, while men are usually silent. Comparing the number of words you just said, I am more of a man than you, so just admit defeat, alright?” he immediately made Lie Er into his lifetime close confidant.

“Wrong.” Lie Er pouted, “Originally, you had manly attributes, but you just spoke a full 40 additional words. Forty plus 27 is 67 words, more than the 47 words spoken by Lie Dou; therefore, Lie Dou is more of a man than you.”

Lie Dou rejoiced and was about to boast about his triumph when he suddenly remembered about the “word count determining one’s manliness” rule so he kept his mouth shut, but giggled heartily.

“If you two keep on arguing, then you’ll become a woman. Remember, okay?” Lie Er carefully warned them, then turned his head and mischievously stuck out his tongue at Feng Ming.

Once he said that, Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ and Lie Dou didn’t dare to speak any further. The rest were secretly laughing inside, those two men are really silly and cute.

Feng Ming laughed for a while before remembering something, he asked, “That’s right, what are you two doing here? Is Prime Minister looking for us?”

Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ nodded his head, just when he was about to say anything, he was afraid of being called a loudmouthed woman so he pointed at his mouth and then desperately shook his head.

Chiu Yue covered her mouth from laughing, “Oh no, this is bad! The time when he shouldn’t talk, he would talk and now when he should talk, he won’t talk. Lie Er, it’s all your fault.”

“Nothing to be scared of, if he can’t talk, he can still write it down.” Chiu Xing stood up, brought over paper, brush and ink and laid them on the table, facing Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ and she said, “If Prime Minister has something to say, just write it down here.”

If Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ wasn’t arguing with Lie Dou, then he would be very honest and obedient. After Chiu Xing told him to write, he obediently walked over and picked up the brush to write.

Everyone came over to see what he had written, after reading half of it, Chiu Yue laughed out, “Oh my, the two of them want to follow Duke Ming on the journey, how lively!~”

Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ nodded his head fiercely, indicating that her guess was correct.

Lie Zhong Liu had commanded the two of them to come here to report that they will be coming along with Feng Ming.

Rong Tian knew that these two loud voiced men may seem a bit foolish, but they understood how to navigate through the tunnel pa.s.sage, tricking the soldiers and leading his subordinates in circles. With the ability to cover their tracks quietly, dealing with the troops and secretly occupying the Lieutenant’s residence, it means that they are skillful. Having them by Feng Ming’s side would be an additional pair of highly skilled experts, which made Rong Tian feel a little more relaxed.

Lie Er knew what Rong Tian was thinking and he giggled, “For Prime Minister to send his only brother on the journey means that he will protect Duke Ming with absolute commitment. Your Majesty can rest a.s.sured now.”

After hearing Lie Er’s words, Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ put down his brush that was writing halfway and nodded in response. He even pounded his chest forcefully, indicating that with him here, there is nothing to worry about.

Lie Dou, who was standing next to him, emitted a sound “Hah!” of disdain.

Chiu Lan quickly said, “There is also Lie Dou who will protect Duke Ming without any mistake.”

Lie Dou gave a huge smile at that time.

Feng Ming was very fond of these two big men, knowing that Lie Zhong Liu ordered them to come along, he happily nodded, “This is very exciting!”

“Does that mean that Little Autumn will come along too?”

Little Autumn was abnormally alert, hearing someone call it’s name, it quickly stood up on Lie Zhong s.h.i.+’s shoulder, and lifted its head towards the voice, its eyes paused in Chiu Yue’s direction, while flapping its tail.

CX: Aiya, Chiu Yue, it knows that you were calling it.

Chiu Yue softly said in a proud manner, “Little Autumn, Little Autumn, come here. I will feed you some fruits.”

Little Autumn waved its tail, tilted its head to examine her, but did not move. Chiu Yue was greatly disappointed.

CX: Don’t worry, we will be traveling together. Once we become acquaintances, everything will be easier.”

Chiu Yue brightened up a bit.

Feng Ming’s traveling group was suddenly added two more people and one more pet, which made it even livelier.

As the crowd laughed on, the dreary atmosphere that started with Feng Ming facing danger was greatly diminished.

Chiu Lan looked up towards the sky and was quickly startled, “Oh no! Not good. We’ve finished talking, but yet we forgot to eat lunch.”

Everyone looked out and it was indeed past lunch time. Suddenly a strange growling noise started.

Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ rubbed his belly and pointed to his mouth. Originally, he was very loud speaking, but he was afraid of what Lie Er had said so he was hesitant to say a single word.

Chiu Lan understood him, “You’re also hungry, right?”

Lie Zhong s.h.i.+ quickly nodded his head.

Lie Dou was also nodding his head next to him, showing that he too was hungry.

“Do you two want to help me prepare the lunch?” Chiu Lan asked as if she was tricking a young child, “While preparing the meal, you two can taste the food earlier than the rest.”

Both of them were overly excited; they immediately nodded their heads nonstop.

Chapter 12

Rong Tian laughed, he lowered his head and asked Feng Ming, “Aren’t you hungry?”

Feng Ming scratched his head, he smiled while shaking his head. Right now, they were next to each other, whispering and laughing, embracing and snuggling close and it still was not enough. The moment of parting was near and yet it brought so much sad emotions...

While thinking about it, his hands trembled as he tightly pulled onto Rong Tian’s sleeves.

Chiu Lan brought Chiu Yue and Chiu Xing along to help with the lunch preparation, Lie Zhong s.h.i.+’s shoulder also had Little Autumn and Lie Dou followed behind them into the kitchen.

Rong Hu took his leave, “I’ll leave first to take care of the letter, order someone to send it through the night, and contact Master Xiao’s fleet and his elite guards. Hopefully, it’ll be in time for Duke Ming’s departure.”

Zi Yan also added, “I have nothing to prepare for. Since Rong Hu has many things to take care of, I will lend him some help.”

The two of them left the small courtyard.

Rong Tian turned to look at Lie Er.

Lie Er suddenly jumped up from his chair and stuck out his tongue, “I also have a lot to take care of, once I’m done, I’ll report to Your Majesty.” Facing Feng Ming, he gave a huge smile, “Duke Ming, you don’t need to worry. Just continue to be affectionate, I guarantee no one will disturb you this time.”

Feng Ming’s face blushed red, without waiting for him to speak, Lie Er already swiftly ran out of the place.

After everyone left to take care of their own business, there was only Rong Tian and Feng Ming inside the room.

They both were looking forward for some time alone and seeing how everyone was considerate and left, Rong Tian and Feng Ming were secretly delighted.

The room became silent.

No one wanted to make a sound to break the tranquility during that moment.

Not sure how much time pa.s.sed, Rong Tian patted his thighs and laughed, “Don’t keep staring at me like that. If you want to be more intimate, just come here. Look, this seat has always been exclusively yours.”

Feng Ming had wanted to charge forward earlier, but he was still hesitant, after hearing Rong Tian’s words, he pretended to threaten Rong Tian, “I’m taller than before and not as light as you think. If I sit on your thigh and break it, you can’t blame me.”

After saying that, he happily charged forward.

Rong Tian pulled the young man close, using his lips, he placed light kisses on his lover’s handsome face.Feng Ming was indeed taller and stronger than a year ago. Luckily, Rong Tian’s stature was tall, his shoulders and chest were wide, which made holding Feng Ming in his arms not difficult.

They continued embracing one another with close skin contact for a long time until their body temperatures intertwined together.

After a moment of silence, filled with sweet tenderness, but also a moment of dismay, Rong Tian sighed.

RT: Sometimes I wonder, if I was not Xi Lei King and didn’t have the ambition of conquering the world, then maybe we would have a life of peace together?

Feng Ming thought for awhile before frowning and shaking his head, “If you are not Xi Lei King and didn’t have the ambition of conquering the world, then you wouldn’t be prideful and arrogant like this and won’t become the Rong Tian of today. If that is the case, then I will not like you.”

Rong Tian was stunned, his eyes revealed how deeply touched he was, with his fingers, he lightly touched the pink lips of his partner and said, “Feng Ming, I really don’t want you to be in danger.”

Feng Ming sighed, refusing to accept Xi Lei King’s deep feelings is not an easy thing to do, after a long while, he finally spoke out, “I’m taking this risk not because of you, but because of me.”

“I just can’t bear it.”

Feng Ming could hear the sound of misery in his lover’s voice, at this moment, he was nothing like the all-powerful Xi Lei King aiming to conquer the world, forever written down in history books...

He was just Rong Tian...

The Rong Tian that belonged to Feng Ming!

“Rong Tian...” Feng Ming took a long silence, still comfortably sitting within Rong Tian’s arms, he changed his posture, revealed a faint smile and whispered, “If you give, then you’ll receive. If you don’t let it go, how are you going to retrieve it back?”

“If you give, then you’ll receive...” Rong Tian murmured the words in a low inaudible voice, “It’s a lot easier to say it.”

He used his strong arms to firmly embrace his lover. Silence.

Chiu Lan and the other maids brought the food dishes over and placed them in front of the room before quietly leaving.

That night, the whole sky was in silence.

It felt as if before separation, the heavens above were in bereavement for them, granting them a moment of complete tranquility without any disturbance.

The time seemed to go by very fast, and yet very slow, just like a boat floating atop of the water, slowly pa.s.sing by, unknowingly looking at the sky and realizing that the day was no longer early.

After dinner, Rong Tian personally helped Feng Ming with his bath then carried Feng Ming onto their bed and used the most intimate body language to say his goodbyes.

Entangled together with loving exhaustion until Feng Ming was limp on the bed and his eyes begging for mercy did Rong Tian let him rest.

Once Feng Ming fell asleep, Rong Tian got up from the bed and dressed himself, he put on a thin cloak and walked out the door.

Watching the bright moon s.h.i.+ning in the sky, he motioned to the guards to not follow him. Rong Tian then slowly paced towards the courtyard, following along the winding hallway and finally came to another courtyard up front.

Stepping into the courtyard and over the patio, Xi Lei King steadily walked up the stairs.

“Ah~” a voice sounded out as if the person expected a visitor would come by, the small door in front slowly opened up.

Rong Tian looked up, a figure in flowing robes stood there, Lie Zhong Liu smiled. “Prime Minister.”

“Your Majesty.”

“Prime Minister is still awake?”

“It’s difficult to sleep soundly on this long night.” Lie Zhong Liu smiled, “Your Majesty couldn’t sleep soundly, so how can Lie Zhong Liu sleep soundly as well?”

Coming in direct gaze with Lie Zhong Liu, Rong Tian can appreciate and observe the deep wisdom within those eyes. Slightly biting his lips, he placed his hands behind his back, turned himself and stepped forward. Lie Zhong Liu could understand His Majesty’s thoughts as he followed behind silently. The two of them, one in the front and the other in the back, walked down the stairs.

Two shadows walked off into the bright moonlight.

“Your Majesty, if there is something you wish to tell me, please say it.”

Rong Tian slowed down his pace, “There is something I would like to ask Prime Minister.”

“Oh?” Lie Zhong Liu’s pace remained constant. His eyes gazed at the shadowy trees up front and then softly replied, “Your Majesty, please ask the question, Lie Zhong Liu will honestly answer it.”

“When Prime Minister decided to let Lady Lie stay behind in Yue Zhong, what were you feeling at that time?”

Lie Zhong Liu suddenly stopped, he slowly turned back to look at Rong Tian. His face was a rare handsome one that can mystify anyone who sees it.

“Ah...” Lie Zhong Liu started laughing and shaking his head, “Your Majesty is indeed a Great King.

An unexpected move that had struck Lie Zhong Liu’s Achilles’ heel.” He shook his head continuously, then let out a long sigh. That handsome face was suffused with a slight bitter expression. “Oh, what were my feelings at that time? Your Majesty must be very clear about it, am I right?”

He gazed into the distance and continued to walk alongside Rong Tian, “I was well known for being knowledgeable at a young age and believed oneself to be well-educated in ancient and modern scripts, but in the end, I find that the hardest thing to learn is about love, something that everyone has to go through. Throughout the ages, there are countless love stories and songs, but those are about Commoner’s love...As for a King’s Love, how many are there?”

Rong Tian asked curiously, “Oh? Those words are very new, can I ask what is considered Commoner’s Love and what is considered A King’s Love?”

Lie Zhong Liu gave an indifferent composure and crossed his arms, “A Commoner’s Love usually think about how to love and protect their lovers. In fact, this kind of love is only for the person’s own interest. A King’s Love, no matter the cost, would fulfill the wishes of their lover.”

“Fulfill their lover’s wishes?” Rong Tian silently thought to himself. After thinking for a moment, his deep pupils suddenly contracted as he respectfully said, “Prime Minister didn’t hesitate to let Lady Lie stay here because it was for her interest?”

“That’s right. Allowing her to completely follow her aspirations, guarding at the place she loves the most, choosing the right disciple for her so that she can fulfill her responsibility of handing down the Wei family’s Art of War.” When mentioning his wife, Lie Zhong Liu eyes showed deep tenderness, “Ever since Chiu Niang was young, she had to endure tough training within the Wei household; therefore, she has a fearless personality, always yearning for that glorious time her ancestor once had. Even though she seems like a weak woman, she managed to receive the Lieutenant post of Yue Zhong after her father’s pa.s.sing, the effort she puts in, is ten times more than an ordinary men. I won’t lie to Your Majesty, if I were to stubbornly force her to come to Dong Fan by using some sort of trick, I would eventually achieve my goal. But if I do that, she will no longer be Wei Chiu Niang, the awe-inspiring and arrogant woman like before. How can I be selfish like that? Just wis.h.i.+ng for my own piece of mind and yet causing my loved one to slowly change into someone else?”

Rong Tian was temporarily speechless.

After a long while, he let out a sigh, “The love Prime Minister has for your wife is very moving.”

Lie Zhong Liu smiled at him and replied, “The love Your Majesty has for Duke Ming, isn’t it as deep? If not, then Your Majesty wouldn’t have nodded in agreement to send Duke Ming on this journey. The most important person inside our hearts will soon be out of our sight and can fall into danger at any moment. It seems like we’re both on the same boat, tasting the same pain tugging at the heart.”

Rong Tian smile hesitantly, “I really thought of...locking Feng Ming in a small room and once the world is conquered, I’ll release him. At that time, I’ll travel around the world with him, whatever he wants, I will immediately give it to him. Whatever he likes, I’ll listen to him. If that can happen, then it would be so great.”

“No matter the outcome, nothing can stimulate a person’s mind then the process of chasing after something.” Lie Zhong Liu continued, “No matter how ornate a sword is, if you bring it into battle and drench it in the enemy’s blood, it will become glorious. Otherwise, what is the point of keeping it nice and locked up within the palace?”

“If the sword used for battle was severed and broken down by a sabre, wouldn’t it cause pain for the owner?”

“Hiding the sword within the palace will give it a dazzling outer sheath, but the inside will rust. Being depressed like that is even worst than being broken.” Lie Zhong Liu sincerely said, “Duke Ming is still a seedling, he needs to leave from under your protection to expose to sunlight and absorb moisture in order to grow into a towering tree covering the sky.”

Rong Tian’s eyes revealed a sense of internal struggle, after a long pause, his eyes finally restored their brightness, he took a deep breath, then nodded his head and said, “Feng Ming, he will become a towering tree covering the sky.”

His lips slowly formed a warm smile as if immersed with the future thought of conquering the world together with Feng Ming, with so much antic.i.p.ation...

Lie Zhong Liu looked deeply at him, smiling, he said, “Your Majesty has used a King’s Love to fulfill Duke Ming’s wishes. Lie Zhong Liu gives his deepest grat.i.tude on behalf of Duke Ming, please accept my grat.i.tude.” He placed his two hands together and gave a respectful bow.

“The one who have fulfilled our wishes is you, Prime Minister.” Rong Tian said in a serious voice, “Prime Minister, please accept my grat.i.tude.”

They bowed to each other and still have not stand back up for a long time. The moonlight continued to s.h.i.+ne on their broad shoulders.

After their bow, they still looked at each other, creating a sense of closeness as if they were long time friends, they looked up into the sky and simultaneously let out a huge laughter.

Those unhappy and ill feelings they had before, all vanished into thin air...

END OF VOLUME 11

FENG NONG’s Message to her fans:

  Words to fans? I’m very happy to have fans in the US and overseas. Because there are pa.s.sionate fans to do translation, everyone was able to know about “Feng Yu Jiu Tian” - it was a very nice surprise.

My English is not good, therefore communicating in English is quite difficult, but, I will work hard to improve my English.

"Feng Yu Jiu Tian" started out as a simple time-traveling story. Originally, I wanted to write about a beautiful young man who arrived in ancient period and met many handsome men who tried to woo him, haha. Afterwards, I didn’t know why it became more and more complicated. There are currently 29 Volumes written, I’m working on writing the 30th. I hope everyone will continue to like this story more and more.

I will also put in the effort to give the story a beautiful ending.

-- Feng Nong