180,000 Southern troops were dispatched here while only 20,000 were left at Yangguan . The news of the Southern Army defeating the North had quickly reached Xiao Yin and he immediately led his remaining troops to attack Yangguan .
Ji Feng Li rushed the Southern Army back and they finally reached Yangguan after a whole day and night . When they arrived, Yangguanwas in a bind with the city gates about to be breached . Before Ji Feng Li departed, he had instructed w.a.n.g Yu to hold his grounds and defend the city . He specifically instructed him to take a defensive approach and rely on the city gate’s towering walls to prolong the battle as long as possible until the main forces returned .
Once they returned they quickly set out to defend the city gates, temporarily safeguarding Yangguan .
In this war, Northern Kingdom sent 100,000 troops to annihilate Southern Army’s 80,000 troops . But unexpectedly, they faced 180,000 troops and in the end they retreated with only 20,000, incurring 80,000 casualties . As for Southern Kingdom, taking into account the casualties at Yangguan as well they were only down by 30,000 . Thus the military forces between the two armies began to increase with disparity .
The Northern Army withdrew to the north of Qing Ming river . At Liangzhou, the situation was as Hua Zhu Yu had predicted . Western Liang did not have 100,000 troops and the majority of them were new recruits . Liangzhou was still holding its grounds and Western Liang has not broken through yet .
Southern Kingdom has pushed the Northern Army out of Southern territory and this can be regarded as a great victory already . w.a.n.g Yu had dispatched troops to set up defenses around the banks of Qing Ming river so it wouldn’t be an easy task if the Northern Army tried to invade again .
Since Hua Zhu Yu was injured, she did not return right away with the troops and did not reach Yangguan until 2 days later . Ji Feng Li sent the military physician to Hua Zhu Yu to check up on her but she refused . She didn’t want to risk the chance of the physician discovering her true gender . Luckily though, since Ji Feng Li had used his internal strength to help her recover, she merely had to recuperate for some time to nurse her health .
Though Hua Zhu Yu was the Hu battalion’s commander, she was still arranged to stay in a tent beside Ji Feng Li’s since she was injured . He even arranged for the army chefs to send over nutritious meals to nurse her health .
Through this battle, Commander Bao’s reputation elevated greatly . The Hu battalion was moved by her conduct . The fact that she risked her life to protect them not only garnered their admiration but deep respect as well .
Although some soldiers recognized that commander Bao was the eunuch from Eastern Palace, they never ridiculed nor scorned her . They only felt that it was truly a pity . Furthermore, they just couldn’t believe that she was the infamous evildoer who bewitched his master . Such a gallant young man can’t possible be an evildoer . After going through life and death on the battlefield, a sense of camaraderie developed among the troops that was hard to estrange .
The war between the north and south had reached a deadlock .
These few days the southern troops were practicing military drills while Hua Zhu Yu was recovering in her tent feeling somewhat depressed .
What made her even more depressed was that Ji Feng Li had instructed the chef to cook only light and nutritional dishes according to the physician’s orders who said that meat was detrimental to the recovery of internal injuries . This of course she already knew . However she had not eaten meat for almost half a month and she could no longer bear with it . This especially made her miss An Xiao Er . If he were here he would surely go hunt some game and roast it for her . She could not count on Ping Lao Da to do the same . He would strictly follow the physician’s orders .
That afternoon, she snuck away with two military officers and ventured into the woods . She reclined underneath a tree for a while and waited for them to return . Shortly after, they came back, one had caught a hare while the other had a pheasant and had already cleaned and prep the meat .
Then they went to find some firewood to start a fire while she seasoned the meat with some spices she took from the army kitchen . She then roasted it like how she saw An Xiao Er did so many times before .
Moments later, the meat was almost done, emitting a fragrant aroma . Hua Zhu Yu couldn’t help but gulp down her saliva . She could finally have meat!
“Commander Bao, you can’t eat too much though, just a taste,” an officer advised .
Hua Zhu Yu lightly smiled, “Alright, just a taste, just a taste,” just a taste of the whole pheasant!
“If Lord Chancellor were to find out we’d be screwed . He’s so frightening when he’s angry,” the other officer said cautiously .
“Frightening? How so? Enlighten me,” a cold voice sounded in the darkness .
Hua Zhu Yu’s hand slightly trembled and she almost dropped the meat into the fire .
The two officers were scared witless and scrambled to their feet in horror . The looked at the white figure in the darkness and stammered, “L-Lord Chancellor, we don’t dare!”
“You best quickly leave else you’ll be charged with the crime of deserting the military camp!” Ji Feng Li said in a voice that was even frostier than before causing the two officers to run for their lives .
Hua Zhu Yu coldly humphed and looked at Ji Feng Li standing in the darkness . She was too preoccupied with roasting the meat that she hadn’t even heard him approach .
translations at peachblossomgrove . com
“Lord Chancellor’s nose is truly sensitive, even more than Cang Yun,” Hua Zhu Yu sneered .
“Who is Cang Yun?” he asked as he stood leaning against a tree with his arms crossed .
“It’s a dog I had previously raised!” Hua Zhu Yu stated honestly with no traces of courtesy . With such a sensitive nose, isn’t it comparable to a dog?
However, Ji Feng Li didn’t appear the least bit bothered by her words . Instead, the corner of his lips were lifted, revealing a touch of a smile .
Hua Zhu Yu had diligently roasted the pheasant and it was finally ready . She reached out to tear off a thigh and had opened her mouth wide for a bite .
However, Ji Feng Li suddenly raised his sleeve and a branch shot out towards her hand, causing her to release the thigh and personally witness the fragrant meat tumble to the ground .
Hua Zhu Yu was boiling with anger that she wanted to stab him right then and there . Was he trying to bully her now that her internal strength hasn’t recovered yet? She suppressed her anger and tore off another thigh . Another branch had shot out towards her but this time she was guarded and turned her body quickly . However, she didn’t expect Ji Feng Li to already predict her movements so this time like before, the meat dropped to the ground .
“ Ji Feng Li… . you… . ” Hua Zhu Yu said through gritted teeth .
She suddenly stood up and turned around with the remaining pheasant .
Ji Feng Li leisurely walked out from the shadows and with a single vault had appeared in front of her . He raised his sleeve and reached out for the pheasant in her arms .
Fuming, she threw it on the ground before he had the chance to take it and charged towards him .
The two wrestled in the bleak woods . Since her internal strength had yet to fully recover, she naturally was not his opponent . However, Ji Feng Li didn’t employ his full strength either and appeared more as though he was teasing her .
The longer they fought, the more annoyed she became and her moves got more vicious . But Ji Feng Li didn’t want to continue fighting . When she charged at him again she somehow stumbled and fell backwards . She braced herself for the fall yet Ji Feng Li had stretched out his arm and she fell right into his embrace .
The hands clutching her waist was hot and firm, making her so tense that she dared not breath . She tried to maintain composure and get up but he suddenly smiled and leaned down, whispering, “Okay, that’s enough . You can’t use internal force at the moment, nor eat meat either . ”
The night sky was exceeding quiet and the stars were s.h.i.+ning peacefully . Leaning down towards her was a peerlessly handsome face . She stared at his smiling phoenix eyes and abruptly shouted, “ You’re not my father, you think you have the right to govern me? I want to eat! I don’t care about restoring inner strength!”
The arms on her waist suddenly stiffen and the smile in his eyes coldly condensed . He slowly let go and turned to leave, his white robes gradually disappearing into the shadows of darkness .
Ji Feng Li had such thick skin, was he actually affected by her words? She got up and walked over to the fire . She took the hare off the stick and extinguished the fire . She then chased after Ji Feng Li . She caught up to him after a short while and tossed the hare over to him . “Forget it . I won’t eat it . I’ll give it to you . ” After all this, she didn’t even have the appet.i.te to eat meat anymore .
Ji Feng Li received the hare and tore off a piece of meat and took a bite, slowly eating .
“How’s the meat?” Hua Zhu Yu asked with narrowed eyes .
Ji Feng Li lightly smiled, “Naturally it’s delicious . It’s quite unexpected that Bao Er has such skills!”
“That’s a given!” She said with pride, she was An Xiao Er’s apprentice after all .
Standing there, Ji Feng Li’s expression was somewhat unusual . After a long while he finally was able to swallow the ‘delicious’ hare meat .
“Set the chessboard aside, don’t mess up the pieces,” Ji Feng Li ordered as he took a sip of his tea . A light smile played on his lips as he stared at the chessboard .
“Set the chessboard aside, don’t mess up the pieces,” Ji Feng Li ordered as he took a sip of his tea . A light smile played on his lips as he stared at the chessboard .
Seeing this, Lan Bing’s heart sank .
It’s done for!
It’s not only Lord Chancellor, but even he felt that Yuan Bao was very compatible with Lord Chancellor the more he saw him . It just a pity that … .
He mustn’t keep thinking this way . He mustn’t let Lord Chancellor continue going down the wrong path .
Tong Shou entered the tent and reported, “Lord Chancellor, the army provisions transported by Xi Jiang Yue has already reached Xiang Yumountain pa.s.s and shall be here in a couple of days . ”
Hearing this, Ji Feng Li instructed, “Tong Shou, lead a team of 20,000 troops and meet up with them . We can’t rely on the grain and provisions from court only . Winter is coming . These provisions and winter supplies are very important . ”
Tong Shou a.s.sented and left to carry out orders .
Sitting at his desk, Ji Feng Li said in a lowered voice, “Lan Bing, inform w.a.n.g Yu to suppress the news of our army’s victory . Send a letter to court informing them that the war is formidable and toiling . Say we’re suffering loss after loss . ”
Lan Bing solemnly replied, “Lord Chancellor has truly considered everything . Since we have already taken care of those spies and scouts, those at court are all ignorant of the war’s development . Even that little Emperor is living in fear each day!”
Ji Feng Li smiled, “Wu Shang isn’t as fragile as you may think . However, giving him something to worry about is also good . If those people knew we’re currently winning with the upper hand, the capital might descend into chaos . ” Only when the circ.u.mstances are dire with Northern Kingdom invading will they not make a move .
“Lord Chancellor, I’ll take my leave then . ” Lan Bing left Ji Feng Li’s tent . Afterwards, he went to inform w.a.n.g Yu and then went to find Commander Tang Yu .
It was just past dinnertime and the military drills were done for the night so it was very quiet and peaceful . Tang Yu was sitting in his seat, before him were a variety of bottles . It was uncertain what type of poison he was studying but when he saw Lan Bing entering his tent he merely went back to what he was doing .
Lan Bing complained, “You still have the heart to just sit here and do that? A disaster is about to befall on Lord Chancellor at any moment!”
Startled, Tang Yu stopped what he was doing and asked, “What’s happened to Lord Chancellor?”
Lan Bing slapped Tang Yu’s shoulder and said with a meaningful gaze, “Lord Chancellor’s about to be done for!”
Tang Yu furrowed his brows but suddenly it dawned on him .
“First he disregarded our warning and personally went to Northern Kingdom to save Yuan Bao . Because of that he was severely injured and nearly lost his life . And now he actually led 100,000 troops into battle . Have you ever seen Lord Chancellor like this before? If things continue on like this, what will happen in the future?” Lan Bing questioned .
“But what can we do about it?” Tang Yu asked, not understanding where Lan Bing was going with this conversation .
“I have a way but I need your help!” Lan Bing leaned towards Tang Yu and whispered a few words .
After hearing Lan Bing’s plan, Tang Yu immediately waved his hand and said, “I can’t do that!”
“You want Lord Chancellor to be doomed for life?” Lan Bing exclaimed .
Tang Yu let out a long sigh . After a long while he grudgingly said, “Alright, fine!”
The northern night sky was as tranquil as the sea . The moon casted faint rays of light over the military camp, making it appear as though there was a layer of frost sheltering the place .
The northern night sky was as tranquil as the sea . The moon casted faint rays of light over the military camp, making it appear as though there was a layer of frost sheltering the place .
Ji Feng Li had just returned to his camp . Sitting down at his table, he drowned a cup of wine but suddenly felt a strange surge in his body as it began to heat up . The gus.h.i.+ng feeling emerged in his chest and spread like wildfire through his limbs . On this cold winter night, he reached for his folding fan but the unbearable heat did not dissipate . He reached for his collar, loosening it but the touch of his skin was astonis.h.i.+ngly hot . His whole body was burning with intensity .
However, his eyes deepened with frostiness . He was positive he had been poisoned . He quickly called for Ji Shui and Ji Yue, instructing them to quickly bring Tang Yu over .
When Tang Yu arrived, he was frightened by the sight of Ji Feng Li . He quickly reached for Ji Feng Li’s wrist to read his pulse . After a while his complexion did not look well .
translations at peachblossomgrove . com
“What is this poison?” Ji Feng Li coldly asked in a hoa.r.s.e voice .
“Qing si rao!” Tang Yu replied . “This poison is an aphrodisiac with hallucinatory agents . It must be taken for 49 days, after which the acc.u.mulation of the poison will start to see effect . Once it is activated, it cannot be subdued . ”
“49 days?” Ji Feng Li repeated . His eyes narrowed, flas.h.i.+ng with a cold glint beneath the candlelight . Who exactly poisoned him? Who’s been hidden by his side for so long?
“Does this poison have an antidote?” he questioned .
Tang Yu anxiously replied, “ It can only be resolved by a woman . There is no other way . It’s impossible to endure . However, there are no women in the military camp at the moment . Someone must want Lord Chancellor’s life . Lord Chancellor, try to bear with it for the time being . I will immediately go order Lan Bing to ride to the nearby town and find a woman for you . Ji Shui, Ji Yue, take care of the Lord . I’ll go look through my medicinal books and see if I can find anything that can temporarily suppress this poison . ”
Afterwards, Tang Yu quickly took his leave .
These past few days, Hua Zhu Yu had been contemplating over the chess match and what her next move should be . But no matter how much she racked her brains, she couldn’t come up with a strategy to defeat Ji Feng Li . It’s been a long time since she played against someone with rivaling skills, thus igniting her desire to win . Moreover, whenever she recalled his calm, leisure demeanor as he played, she wanted even more so to subject him to an utterly crus.h.i.+ng defeat .
After dinner, Hua Zhu Yu quietly snuck away from camp . She proceeded through the woods towards the back of the mountains . Shortly after, she arrived at a small hot spring which she had discovered by chance . This spot was very well hidden and obscure so every few days, she would come here for a bath . After the incident at Mt . Qing Cheng, she proceeded with more caution and utilized a more difficult array to remain unseen .
She ventured towards the edge of the waters and began to take off her clothes and the binding cloth across her chest . She entered the waters and was finally able to relax a bit . After was.h.i.+ng up, she went back on sh.o.r.e only to discover that her binding cloth had been washed away by the waters . (t/n dun dun duuun!)
This made her feel slightly apprehensive and annoyed . However, it would be difficult to search for it now since it was already so dark . But since it was dark, people most likely won’t notice her unusual chest . Thus she got dressed and sat down with her legs soaking in the hot spring . Her long black hair was loose behind her back, left to dry in the night wind .
Since it was late autumn, the night wind carried a slight chill . She waited until her hair was finally dry before putting it up in a bun again . Afterwards, she decided to practice her internal strength . After resting these past few days she could feel that her internal strength was recovering . Though it would probably take another half a month before she would completely recover .
She finally got up and dispersed the array formation before walking out . She deliberately didn’t tie her waistband so that her clothes were more loose, preventing her chest from being too noticeable .
The night was calm and peaceful with the moon s.h.i.+ning overhead . Along the path back to camp, she continued pondering over the chess match . Her footsteps suddenly halted when an idea came to mind . She then recalled Ji Feng Li’s moves and considered her strategy . After thinking it through, she believed she could definitely take home a victory with this strategy and let him suffer a devastating defeat . With this thought she couldn’t help but smile, rus.h.i.+ng back to camp in swift, light steps .
Shortly after, she had arrived back at the military camp . When she pa.s.sed by Ji Feng Li’ tent, she saw that the lights were still on inside . She quickly went up to the door and raised her hand to knock on the column . She faintly heard his voice from inside so she pulled aside the curtains and entered . If she could, she wanted to defeat Ji Feng Li right this moment . Outplaying the haughty Ji Feng Li was even more satisfying that taking the head of the enemy’s leader on the battlefield .
There was only a single candle burning inside his tent . Beneath the dim light, she could vaguely make out the chessboard on the ebony table .
It appears Ji Feng Li hadn’t slept and was still studying the chessboard so he most likely hadn’t figured out a way to defeat her yet .
Hua Zhu Yu finally looked over towards Ji Feng Li .
His appearance slightly alarmed her . She had never seen him like this before . He always had on a gentle or composed, sometimes indolent appearance . But at this moment, there was no gentleness to him, no composure nor indolence .
He stood next to the table with both hands propped on top of it . His dark hair was unbound, hanging off his shoulders and obscuring the side of his face . His robes were snow-white while his hair was black as ink . The contrast of black on white was very distinct .
His appearance slightly alarmed her . She had never seen him like this before . He always had on a gentle or composed, sometimes indolent appearance . But at this moment, there was no gentleness to him, no composure nor indolence .
He stood next to the table with both hands propped on top of it . His dark hair was unbound, hanging off his shoulders and obscuring the side of his face . His robes were snow-white while his hair was black as ink . The contrast of black on white was very distinct .
The night breeze had no way of entering the tent yet his white robes and ink dark hair were quivering lively, clearly incited by internal strength .
“Left Chancellor daren?… . ” Hua Zhu Yu called out slightly puzzled as she slowly walked over to him . However, it was only a few steps before she abruptly stopped in her tracks .
The table beneath his arms began to tremble, slightly and then violently . The chess pieces on the table shook in accompaniment, the sound growing increasingly loud . Even the wine cup trembled, causing the crimson red wine to splash out, spilling onto the table like red tears trickling out .
Obviously, the table was not shaking on its own free will but due to the arms propped above them . Ji Feng Li’s arms were shaking uncontrollably .
A cold chill crept up her spine and she suddenly took two steps back .
At this precise moment, Ji Feng Li suddenly turned around .
He looked at her with his phoenix eyes which were muddled with confusion . His pupils were enlarged and his eyes weren’t focused . He was staring straight at her yet didn’t seem to recognize her at all .
“Who’s there? Get out!” He shouted as his phoenix eyes narrowed and he waved his sleeves violently as if in a daze . Abruptly, he raised his head and frantically gasped for breath .
“Leave!” Ji Feng Li suddenly stooped down and grabbed the brocade cus.h.i.+on mat and hurled it at Hua Zhu Yu . She ducked down quickly and the mat flew over her head, knocking against her hairpin . She fell back two steps due to the strength and speed of the mat . She stumbled over something and staggered to the floor .
Hua Zhu Yu looked down at the floor and saw it covered with things that had been thrown about, including brocade cus.h.i.+on mats and small tea cups . However the floor was lined with a rug so these things were not broken, merely scattered on the ground . Suddenly, she remembered that when she entered, there were no guards around . They must have already been driven away by Ji Feng Li .
At this moment, it was evident to Hua Zhu Yu that Ji Feng Li was currently under the influence of some sort of love drug/poison . She had already experienced this type of drug once in the Northern Kingdom and was clearly aware of its nature .
She would be a fool if she didn’t leave immediately . She quickly got up from the floor and hurried to the door . But since she moved too quickly, her loosened hairpin fell, and with it her hair poured down like a waterfall .
Ji Feng Li’s misty eyes were becoming increasingly muddled with confusion . His brows deeply furrowed as he stared at Hua Zhu Yu with her messy hair . Suddenly, a trace of clearness flashed in his eyes and his sleeves fanned out, extinguis.h.i.+ng the candlelight .
The tent was suddenly enveloped in darkness and Hua Zhu Yu could hear the rustle of his sleeves behind her . In a flash, he had seized her shoulder . She didn’t think that Ji Feng Li could still move this quick .
Hua Zhu Yu was alarmed . His heavy breath was right above her and his hands rapidly seized her jaw . He coldly asked, “Woman, did Lan Bing send you?” Although his tone was chilling, his voice was charmingly husky . Hua Zhu Yu was naturally aware that it’s due to the effects of the drug .
“No, he didn’t!” Hua Zhu Yu deliberately replied in her female voice . Ji Feng Li was evidently more clear-headed now . Just then, seeing her long scattered hair, he had a.s.sumed she was a woman so she must not let him find out she was Yuan Bao .
“No?” he coldly sneered . “There are no women in the army!”
“I…I’m… . ” Hua Zhu Yu said in a low voice . Half-way through, she raised her palm and aimed towards Ji Feng Li’s chest . Although she hasn’t fully recovered her internal strength, she believed that if she landed a shot a him at this close distance it would still injure him .
However, her hand was immediately caught by him . His seductive husky voice rang in her ear, “I didn’t expect you have martial skills! Since you already came, it’s impossible to leave now . You don’t have to play any games, rest a.s.sured, as long as you’re a woman, not matter how unsightly you are, I would still have you!”
His seductive husky voice should’ve been br.i.m.m.i.n.g with pa.s.sion and affection yet his tone was biting cold as if it wasn’t something he himself wished for .
Ji Feng Li seized her waist and she resisted violently . She employed all the internal strength she had but still could not escape from his clutch . He suddenly jabbed at her waist, sealing her pressure point . Her body couldn’t help but soften, lifelessly . It seemed as if heaven and earth were spinning around her as he carried her inside .
180,000 Southern troops were dispatched here while only 20,000 were left at Yangguan . The news of the Southern Army defeating the North had quickly reached Xiao Yin and he immediately led his remaining troops to attack Yangguan
Ji Feng Li rushed the Southern Army back and they finally reached Yangguan after a whole day and night . When they arrived, Yangguanwas in a bind with the city gates about to be breached . Before Ji Feng Li departed, he had instructed w.a.n.g Yu to hold his grounds and defend the city . He specifically instructed him to take a defensive approach and rely on the city gate’s towering walls to prolong the battle as long as possible until the main forces returned . .
Once they returned they quickly set out to defend the city gates, temporarily safeguarding Yangguan . .
In this war, Northern Kingdom sent 100,000 troops to annihilate Southern Army’s 80,000 troops . But unexpectedly, they faced 180,000 troops and in the end they retreated with only 20,000, incurring 80,000 casualties . As for Southern Kingdom, taking into account the casualties at Yangguan as well they were only down by 30,000 . Thus the military forces between the two armies began to increase with disparity . .
The Northern Army withdrew to the north of Qing Ming river . At Liangzhou, the situation was as Hua Zhu Yu had predicted . Western Liang did not have 100,000 troops and the majority of them were new recruits . Liangzhou was still holding its grounds and Western Liang has not broken through yet . .
Southern Kingdom has pushed the Northern Army out of Southern territory and this can be regarded as a great victory already . w.a.n.g Yu had dispatched troops to set up defenses around the banks of Qing Ming river so it wouldn’t be an easy task if the Northern Army tried to invade again . .
Since Hua Zhu Yu was injured, she did not return right away with the troops and did not reach Yangguan until 2 days later . Ji Feng Li sent the military physician to Hua Zhu Yu to check up on her but she refused . She didn’t want to risk the chance of the physician discovering her true gender . Luckily though, since Ji Feng Li had used his internal strength to help her recover, she merely had to recuperate for some time to nurse her health . .
Though Hua Zhu Yu was the Hu battalion’s commander, she was still arranged to stay in a tent beside Ji Feng Li’s since she was injured . He even arranged for the army chefs to send over nutritious meals to nurse her health . .
Through this battle, Commander Bao’s reputation elevated greatly . The Hu battalion was moved by her conduct . The fact that she risked her life to protect them not only garnered their admiration but deep respect as well
Although some soldiers recognized that commander Bao was the eunuch from Eastern Palace, they never ridiculed nor scorned her . They only felt that it was truly a pity . Furthermore, they just couldn’t believe that she was the infamous evildoer who bewitched his master . Such a gallant young man can’t possible be an evildoer . After going through life and death on the battlefield, a sense of camaraderie developed among the troops that was hard to estrange . .
The war between the north and south had reached a deadlock . .
These few days the southern troops were practicing military drills while Hua Zhu Yu was recovering in her tent feeling somewhat depressed . .
What made her even more depressed was that Ji Feng Li had instructed the chef to cook only light and nutritional dishes according to the physician’s orders who said that meat was detrimental to the recovery of internal injuries . This of course she already knew . However she had not eaten meat for almost half a month and she could no longer bear with it . This especially made her miss An Xiao Er . If he were here he would surely go hunt some game and roast it for her . She could not count on Ping Lao Da to do the same . He would strictly follow the physician’s orders . .
That afternoon, she snuck away with two military officers and ventured into the woods . She reclined underneath a tree for a while and waited for them to return . Shortly after, they came back, one had caught a hare while the other had a pheasant and had already cleaned and prep the meat . .
Then they went to find some firewood to start a fire while she seasoned the meat with some spices she took from the army kitchen . She then roasted it like how she saw An Xiao Er did so many times before . .
Moments later, the meat was almost done, emitting a fragrant aroma . Hua Zhu Yu couldn’t help but gulp down her saliva . She could finally have meat!.
“Commander Bao, you can’t eat too much though, just a taste,” an officer advised . .
Hua Zhu Yu lightly smiled, “Alright, just a taste, just a taste,” just a taste of the whole pheasant! .
“If Lord Chancellor were to find out we’d be screwed . He’s so frightening when he’s angry,” the other officer said cautiously . .
“Frightening? How so? Enlighten me,” a cold voice sounded in the darkness . .
Hua Zhu Yu’s hand slightly trembled and she almost dropped the meat into the fire . .
The two officers were scared witless and scrambled to their feet in horror . The looked at the white figure in the darkness and stammered, “L-Lord Chancellor, we don’t dare!” .
“You best quickly leave else you’ll be charged with the crime of deserting the military camp!” Ji Feng Li said in a voice that was even frostier than before causing the two officers to run for their lives . .
Hua Zhu Yu coldly humphed and looked at Ji Feng Li standing in the darkness . She was too preoccupied with roasting the meat that she hadn’t even heard him approach
translations at peachblossomgrove . com.
“Lord Chancellor’s nose is truly sensitive, even more than Cang Yun,” Hua Zhu Yu sneered . .
“Who is Cang Yun?” he asked as he stood leaning against a tree with his arms crossed . .
“It’s a dog I had previously raised!” Hua Zhu Yu stated honestly with no traces of courtesy . With such a sensitive nose, isn’t it comparable to a dog? .
However, Ji Feng Li didn’t appear the least bit bothered by her words . Instead, the corner of his lips were lifted, revealing a touch of a smile . .
Hua Zhu Yu had diligently roasted the pheasant and it was finally ready . She reached out to tear off a thigh and had opened her mouth wide for a bite . .
However, Ji Feng Li suddenly raised his sleeve and a branch shot out towards her hand, causing her to release the thigh and personally witness the fragrant meat tumble to the ground . .
Hua Zhu Yu was boiling with anger that she wanted to stab him right then and there . Was he trying to bully her now that her internal strength hasn’t recovered yet? She suppressed her anger and tore off another thigh . Another branch had shot out towards her but this time she was guarded and turned her body quickly . However, she didn’t expect Ji Feng Li to already predict her movements so this time like before, the meat dropped to the ground . .
“ Ji Feng Li… . you… . ” Hua Zhu Yu said through gritted teeth . .
She suddenly stood up and turned around with the remaining pheasant
Ji Feng Li leisurely walked out from the shadows and with a single vault had appeared in front of her . He raised his sleeve and reached out for the pheasant in her arms . .
Fuming, she threw it on the ground before he had the chance to take it and charged towards him
The two wrestled in the bleak woods . Since her internal strength had yet to fully recover, she naturally was not his opponent . However, Ji Feng Li didn’t employ his full strength either and appeared more as though he was teasing her
The longer they fought, the more annoyed she became and her moves got more vicious . But Ji Feng Li didn’t want to continue fighting . When she charged at him again she somehow stumbled and fell backwards . She braced herself for the fall yet Ji Feng Li had stretched out his arm and she fell right into his embrace . .
The hands clutching her waist was hot and firm, making her so tense that she dared not breath . She tried to maintain composure and get up but he suddenly smiled and leaned down, whispering, “Okay, that’s enough . You can’t use internal force at the moment, nor eat meat either . ” .
The night sky was exceeding quiet and the stars were s.h.i.+ning peacefully . Leaning down towards her was a peerlessly handsome face . She stared at his smiling phoenix eyes and abruptly shouted, “ You’re not my father, you think you have the right to govern me? I want to eat! I don’t care about restoring inner strength!” .
The arms on her waist suddenly stiffen and the smile in his eyes coldly condensed . He slowly let go and turned to leave, his white robes gradually disappearing into the shadows of darkness . .
Ji Feng Li had such thick skin, was he actually affected by her words? She got up and walked over to the fire . She took the hare off the stick and extinguished the fire . She then chased after Ji Feng Li . She caught up to him after a short while and tossed the hare over to him . “Forget it . I won’t eat it . I’ll give it to you . ” After all this, she didn’t even have the appet.i.te to eat meat anymore . .
Ji Feng Li received the hare and tore off a piece of meat and took a bite, slowly eating
“How’s the meat?” Hua Zhu Yu asked with narrowed eyes . .
Ji Feng Li lightly smiled, “Naturally it’s delicious . It’s quite unexpected that Bao Er has such skills!” .
“That’s a given!” She said with pride, she was An Xiao Er’s apprentice after all . .
Standing there, Ji Feng Li’s expression was somewhat unusual . After a long while he finally was able to swallow the ‘delicious’ hare meat . .
“Set the chessboard aside, don’t mess up the pieces,” Ji Feng Li ordered as he took a sip of his tea . A light smile played on his lips as he stared at the chessboard . .
Seeing this, Lan Bing’s heart sank . .
It’s done for! .
It’s not only Lord Chancellor, but even he felt that Yuan Bao was very compatible with Lord Chancellor the more he saw him . It just a pity that …
He mustn’t keep thinking this way . He mustn’t let Lord Chancellor continue going down the wrong path . .
Tong Shou entered the tent and reported, “Lord Chancellor, the army provisions transported by Xi Jiang Yue has already reached Xiang Yumountain pa.s.s and shall be here in a couple of days . ” .
Hearing this, Ji Feng Li instructed, “Tong Shou, lead a team of 20,000 troops and meet up with them . We can’t rely on the grain and provisions from court only . Winter is coming . These provisions and winter supplies are very important . ” .
Tong Shou a.s.sented and left to carry out orders . .
Sitting at his desk, Ji Feng Li said in a lowered voice, “Lan Bing, inform w.a.n.g Yu to suppress the news of our army’s victory . Send a letter to court informing them that the war is formidable and toiling . Say we’re suffering loss after loss . ” .
Lan Bing solemnly replied, “Lord Chancellor has truly considered everything . Since we have already taken care of those spies and scouts, those at court are all ignorant of the war’s development . Even that little Emperor is living in fear each day!” .
Ji Feng Li smiled, “Wu Shang isn’t as fragile as you may think . However, giving him something to worry about is also good . If those people knew we’re currently winning with the upper hand, the capital might descend into chaos . ” Only when the circ.u.mstances are dire with Northern Kingdom invading will they not make a move . .
“Lord Chancellor, I’ll take my leave then . ” Lan Bing left Ji Feng Li’s tent . Afterwards, he went to inform w.a.n.g Yu and then went to find Commander Tang Yu . .
It was just past dinnertime and the military drills were done for the night so it was very quiet and peaceful . Tang Yu was sitting in his seat, before him were a variety of bottles . It was uncertain what type of poison he was studying but when he saw Lan Bing entering his tent he merely went back to what he was doing . .
Lan Bing complained, “You still have the heart to just sit here and do that? A disaster is about to befall on Lord Chancellor at any moment!” .
Startled, Tang Yu stopped what he was doing and asked, “What’s happened to Lord Chancellor?” .
Lan Bing slapped Tang Yu’s shoulder and said with a meaningful gaze, “Lord Chancellor’s about to be done for!”.
Tang Yu furrowed his brows but suddenly it dawned on him . .
“First he disregarded our warning and personally went to Northern Kingdom to save Yuan Bao . Because of that he was severely injured and nearly lost his life . And now he actually led 100,000 troops into battle . Have you ever seen Lord Chancellor like this before? If things continue on like this, what will happen in the future?” Lan Bing questioned . .
“But what can we do about it?” Tang Yu asked, not understanding where Lan Bing was going with this conversation . .
“I have a way but I need your help!” Lan Bing leaned towards Tang Yu and whispered a few words . .
After hearing Lan Bing’s plan, Tang Yu immediately waved his hand and said, “I can’t do that!” .
“You want Lord Chancellor to be doomed for life?” Lan Bing exclaimed
Tang Yu let out a long sigh . After a long while he grudgingly said, “Alright, fine!” .
***.
The northern night sky was as tranquil as the sea . The moon casted faint rays of light over the military camp, making it appear as though there was a layer of frost sheltering the place . .
Ji Feng Li had just returned to his camp . Sitting down at his table, he drowned a cup of wine but suddenly felt a strange surge in his body as it began to heat up . The gus.h.i.+ng feeling emerged in his chest and spread like wildfire through his limbs . On this cold winter night, he reached for his folding fan but the unbearable heat did not dissipate . He reached for his collar, loosening it but the touch of his skin was astonis.h.i.+ngly hot . His whole body was burning with intensity . .
However, his eyes deepened with frostiness . He was positive he had been poisoned . He quickly called for Ji Shui and Ji Yue, instructing them to quickly bring Tang Yu over . .
When Tang Yu arrived, he was frightened by the sight of Ji Feng Li . He quickly reached for Ji Feng Li’s wrist to read his pulse . After a while his complexion did not look well
translations at peachblossomgrove . com.
“What is this poison?” Ji Feng Li coldly asked in a hoa.r.s.e voice . .
“Qing si rao!” Tang Yu replied . “This poison is an aphrodisiac with hallucinatory agents . It must be taken for 49 days, after which the acc.u.mulation of the poison will start to see effect . Once it is activated, it cannot be subdued . ” .
“49 days?” Ji Feng Li repeated . His eyes narrowed, flas.h.i.+ng with a cold glint beneath the candlelight . Who exactly poisoned him? Who’s been hidden by his side for so long? .
“Does this poison have an antidote?” he questioned . .
Tang Yu anxiously replied, “ It can only be resolved by a woman . There is no other way . It’s impossible to endure . However, there are no women in the military camp at the moment . Someone must want Lord Chancellor’s life . Lord Chancellor, try to bear with it for the time being . I will immediately go order Lan Bing to ride to the nearby town and find a woman for you . Ji Shui, Ji Yue, take care of the Lord . I’ll go look through my medicinal books and see if I can find anything that can temporarily suppress this poison . ” .
Afterwards, Tang Yu quickly took his leave . .
***.
These past few days, Hua Zhu Yu had been contemplating over the chess match and what her next move should be . But no matter how much she racked her brains, she couldn’t come up with a strategy to defeat Ji Feng Li . It’s been a long time since she played against someone with rivaling skills, thus igniting her desire to win . Moreover, whenever she recalled his calm, leisure demeanor as he played, she wanted even more so to subject him to an utterly crus.h.i.+ng defeat
After dinner, Hua Zhu Yu quietly snuck away from camp . She proceeded through the woods towards the back of the mountains . Shortly after, she arrived at a small hot spring which she had discovered by chance . This spot was very well hidden and obscure so every few days, she would come here for a bath . After the incident at Mt . Qing Cheng, she proceeded with more caution and utilized a more difficult array to remain unseen . .
She ventured towards the edge of the waters and began to take off her clothes and the binding cloth across her chest . She entered the waters and was finally able to relax a bit . After was.h.i.+ng up, she went back on sh.o.r.e only to discover that her binding cloth had been washed away by the waters . (t/n dun dun duuun!).
This made her feel slightly apprehensive and annoyed . However, it would be difficult to search for it now since it was already so dark . But since it was dark, people most likely won’t notice her unusual chest . Thus she got dressed and sat down with her legs soaking in the hot spring . Her long black hair was loose behind her back, left to dry in the night wind
Since it was late autumn, the night wind carried a slight chill . She waited until her hair was finally dry before putting it up in a bun again . Afterwards, she decided to practice her internal strength . After resting these past few days she could feel that her internal strength was recovering . Though it would probably take another half a month before she would completely recover . .
She finally got up and dispersed the array formation before walking out . She deliberately didn’t tie her waistband so that her clothes were more loose, preventing her chest from being too noticeable . .
The night was calm and peaceful with the moon s.h.i.+ning overhead . Along the path back to camp, she continued pondering over the chess match . Her footsteps suddenly halted when an idea came to mind . She then recalled Ji Feng Li’s moves and considered her strategy . After thinking it through, she believed she could definitely take home a victory with this strategy and let him suffer a devastating defeat . With this thought she couldn’t help but smile, rus.h.i.+ng back to camp in swift, light steps
Shortly after, she had arrived back at the military camp . When she pa.s.sed by Ji Feng Li’ tent, she saw that the lights were still on inside . She quickly went up to the door and raised her hand to knock on the column . She faintly heard his voice from inside so she pulled aside the curtains and entered . If she could, she wanted to defeat Ji Feng Li right this moment . Outplaying the haughty Ji Feng Li was even more satisfying that taking the head of the enemy’s leader on the battlefield . .
There was only a single candle burning inside his tent . Beneath the dim light, she could vaguely make out the chessboard on the ebony table . .
It appears Ji Feng Li hadn’t slept and was still studying the chessboard so he most likely hadn’t figured out a way to defeat her yet . .
Hua Zhu Yu finally looked over towards Ji Feng Li . .
His appearance slightly alarmed her . She had never seen him like this before . He always had on a gentle or composed, sometimes indolent appearance . But at this moment, there was no gentleness to him, no composure nor indolence . .
He stood next to the table with both hands propped on top of it . His dark hair was unbound, hanging off his shoulders and obscuring the side of his face . His robes were snow-white while his hair was black as ink . The contrast of black on white was very distinct . .
The night breeze had no way of entering the tent yet his white robes and ink dark hair were quivering lively, clearly incited by internal strength . .
“Left Chancellor daren?… . ” Hua Zhu Yu called out slightly puzzled as she slowly walked over to him . However, it was only a few steps before she abruptly stopped in her tracks . .
The table beneath his arms began to tremble, slightly and then violently . The chess pieces on the table shook in accompaniment, the sound growing increasingly loud . Even the wine cup trembled, causing the crimson red wine to splash out, spilling onto the table like red tears trickling out . .
Obviously, the table was not shaking on its own free will but due to the arms propped above them . Ji Feng Li’s arms were shaking uncontrollably . .
A cold chill crept up her spine and she suddenly took two steps back . .
At this precise moment, Ji Feng Li suddenly turned around
He looked at her with his phoenix eyes which were muddled with confusion . His pupils were enlarged and his eyes weren’t focused . He was staring straight at her yet didn’t seem to recognize her at all . .
“Who’s there? Get out!” He shouted as his phoenix eyes narrowed and he waved his sleeves violently as if in a daze . Abruptly, he raised his head and frantically gasped for breath . .
“Leave!” Ji Feng Li suddenly stooped down and grabbed the brocade cus.h.i.+on mat and hurled it at Hua Zhu Yu . She ducked down quickly and the mat flew over her head, knocking against her hairpin . She fell back two steps due to the strength and speed of the mat . She stumbled over something and staggered to the floor . .
Hua Zhu Yu looked down at the floor and saw it covered with things that had been thrown about, including brocade cus.h.i.+on mats and small tea cups . However the floor was lined with a rug so these things were not broken, merely scattered on the ground . Suddenly, she remembered that when she entered, there were no guards around . They must have already been driven away by Ji Feng Li . .
At this moment, it was evident to Hua Zhu Yu that Ji Feng Li was currently under the influence of some sort of love drug/poison . She had already experienced this type of drug once in the Northern Kingdom and was clearly aware of its nature . .
She would be a fool if she didn’t leave immediately . She quickly got up from the floor and hurried to the door . But since she moved too quickly, her loosened hairpin fell, and with it her hair poured down like a waterfall . .
Ji Feng Li’s misty eyes were becoming increasingly muddled with confusion . His brows deeply furrowed as he stared at Hua Zhu Yu with her messy hair . Suddenly, a trace of clearness flashed in his eyes and his sleeves fanned out, extinguis.h.i.+ng the candlelight . .
The tent was suddenly enveloped in darkness and Hua Zhu Yu could hear the rustle of his sleeves behind her . In a flash, he had seized her shoulder . She didn’t think that Ji Feng Li could still move this quick . .
Hua Zhu Yu was alarmed . His heavy breath was right above her and his hands rapidly seized her jaw . He coldly asked, “Woman, did Lan Bing send you?” Although his tone was chilling, his voice was charmingly husky . Hua Zhu Yu was naturally aware that it’s due to the effects of the drug
“No, he didn’t!” Hua Zhu Yu deliberately replied in her female voice . Ji Feng Li was evidently more clear-headed now . Just then, seeing her long scattered hair, he had a.s.sumed she was a woman so she must not let him find out she was Yuan Bao . .
“No?” he coldly sneered . “There are no women in the army!” .
“I…I’m… . ” Hua Zhu Yu said in a low voice . Half-way through, she raised her palm and aimed towards Ji Feng Li’s chest . Although she hasn’t fully recovered her internal strength, she believed that if she landed a shot a him at this close distance it would still injure him . .
However, her hand was immediately caught by him . His seductive husky voice rang in her ear, “I didn’t expect you have martial skills! Since you already came, it’s impossible to leave now . You don’t have to play any games, rest a.s.sured, as long as you’re a woman, not matter how unsightly you are, I would still have you!” .
His seductive husky voice should’ve been br.i.m.m.i.n.g with pa.s.sion and affection yet his tone was biting cold as if it wasn’t something he himself wished for
Ji Feng Li seized her waist and she resisted violently . She employed all the internal strength she had but still could not escape from his clutch . He suddenly jabbed at her waist, sealing her pressure point . Her body couldn’t help but soften, lifelessly . It seemed as if heaven and earth were spinning around her as he carried her inside
.
