After a single meal, Zuo Canglang left, calling for Xu Lang, the two of them gathered troops for Hui Ye garden. Hui Ye garden was coincidentally in a line with White Wolf lake, and the terrain was extremely complex. Xu Lang said, "Hui Ye garden has a lot of quicksand, so when we bring troops towards there, there is a lot of risk, ah."
Zuo Canglang said, "His second highness didn't have much support within court, and currently, the people of Jinyang are still unacquainted with him. The only thing they know, is that the crown prince had taken miss Jiang by force. He needs to do a few events that quickly improves the peoples' morale, to establish his popularity amongst the people. Don't think that since we have taken Jinyang city now, as that is just a joke. Once Marshal Wen sends troops, or if his majesty gathers his old troops, we will be trapped in the middle, and in that situation it will truly be the situation where the heavens will give no route to traverse, and the earth will close its doors to us."
Xu Lang said, "I also know this, but Ah Zuo, do you think...... his second highness really has a chance of victory?"
Zuo Canglang turned back, and beneath the brazier light by Jinyang city's gate, her two eyes were deep, and a long time later, said, "He has."
Xu Lang was startled.
The two gathered troops throughout the night, and immediately made a b-line for Yi river, and followed White Wolf lake's flow, and after passing Yi river, they reformed the troops, and before ten days had passed, they had already arrived on the eastern side of White Wolf lake. And at this time, Wenqi's vanguard had just arrived before Jinyang city.
Jinyang city was devoid of soldiers or generals within, and was practically an empty city.
Murong Yan stood atop the city wall, and looked at the several tens of thousands of troops beneath the city wall. Zhou Xin quickly yelled out, saying, "Your highness, it's better if you go down, as once battle begins, we have no chance of victory, ah!"
Murong Yan said, "Even so, whether I stand at the head of the gate or at the bottom before the gate, what difference does it make?"
Zhou Xin said, "Counting it now, it has been ten days since miss Ah Zuo and Xu Lang's brought soldiers to ambush Hui Ye garden, so how come there hasn't been any news."
Murong Yan smiled, saying, "Zhou Xin, how long can you hold Jinyang city?"
Zhou Xin's face turned serious, and looking within and outside the city, said, "Your highness, this subject since little had followed Jieyu Rong, and although her ladyship has gone for many years, but her great grace and great virtue, this subject will never forget his entire lifetime. Currently, Jinyang city is in a perilous situation, but as long as this subject still has a single breath left, this subject will definitely not let Wenqi's troops take a single step inside."
Murong Yan said, "Hold it for a single day, can you?"
Zhou Xin's face was a little bit strange, and he quickly knelt, saying, "Jinyang city has high and thick walls, so this subject has confidence in holding it for three days."
Murong Yan nodded, lightly saying, "That is enough."
Jinyang city was being attacked, and news of it spread to Yi river's side. Xu Lang quickly ordered the troops, "Immediately lock down the news, and if it is spread even partially, and messes up our troops morale, kill!"
The messenger soldier knelt down, and Zuo Canglang received the battle report, but actually before all of the soldiers, read it word for word. Xu Lang was extremely startled, "Military advisor?"
Zuo Canglang sought fun, and threw the military uniform on the ground, looking at all the troops, saying, "Just a moment ago, what I had said, has everyone heard it? Currently Jinyang city is just suffering from heavy attacks, and we have already been declared as rebel soldiers by his majesty. If in this battle, we cannot take Hui Ye garden, Jinyang will definitely fall. Once Jinyang falls, we will definitely become traitors and rebels. Not only us, but our homes and our relatives, the old and the young, will also be executed by association, and there will be no hope of survival."
By White Wolf lake, the soldiers that had marched for ten days were suddenly alarmed, and Zuo Canglang said, "However, if we take Hui Ye garden, Marshal Wen will definitely pull troops back to guard the border, to prevent Western Jing from invading. At that time, the danger to Jinyang city will be removed, and when his second highness ascends, you all will all be merited officials."
Nobody spoke, and everyone stood upright. Zuo Canglang said, "Right now, we will prepare our meal here, we will have a full meal, and then, we will discard everything burdening us, we will destroy our route of retreat, and breach Hui Ye garden!"
The whole army cheered, and immediately took out the cutlery and prepared their meal. After midnight, the whole army silently crossed White Wolf river, and Zuo Canglang chose a few old soldiers to scout the way, as they were extremely familiar with the quicksand terrain there. But even so, there were many soldiers that were lost there.
The journeyed with haste, in such a rush that the second night, Hui Ye garden's gate was before their eyes.
Zuo Canglang choose a small group of elite troops to dress up as refugees, going forward to request assistance. These men had crossed a river and been covered with sand, so they didn't even need to dress up to pretend to be refugees. And Zuo Canglang didn't miscalculate matters, as Hui Ye garden's garrison was actually very loose. For so many years, Great Yan had never attacked Western Jing even half a step. Hui Ye garden also had a natural terrain as a barrier, and practically no one would have thought, there would be troops about to attack.
The small group of refugees got into a row with the guards at the gate, and suddenly became violent, murdering the city guard.
Zuo Canglang quickly entered the city, and using her bow, quickly killed the head guards of the city. When the advance troops made their war cries into the city, the guards in the city had not yet responded. And right at this time, the troops that Xu Lang brought immediately attacked into the city.
Western Jing's people could only flee for their lives. Xu Lang looked at Zuo Canglang asking, "Military advisor, how about we enter the city?"
Zuo Canglang looked at him, then looked at the soldiers that were busy slaying the enemy, suddenly saying, "Great Yan's soldiers, listen to the order: Western Jing's people have oppressed my Great Yan for a long time. Today, it is the day for the people of Yan to finally unleash their rage! After entering the city, pillage the city for a day. By this time tomorrow, any items seized, will belong to whomever seized it!"
The troops immediately unleashed a cheer into the air, and the sound of killing intensified. Xu Lang's expression changed, "Military observer! At this time, our troops are like a disorganized mob, and once the order to pillage the city is given, by this time tomorrow, I'm only afraid that Hui Ye garden wil not have a single Western Jing person!"
Zuo Canglang raised her head, looking at the city wall, saying, "Yeah, ah. Tomorrow by this time, Hui Ye garden will become an empty city."
Xu Lang still wanted to say something, but she then said, "But we are out of supplies. Western Jing's people are strong and vicious, so if we flee at this time, they will send pursuers. After they respond, they will definitely resist. And our troops have continuously marched for more than ten days, and are already exhausted. Once we are defeated, the consequences are unimaginable."
Xu Lang couldn't say anything else. Within the city, flames lit up in various places, strong and blinding. Zuo Canglang kept standing by the city gate. The three words, "Hui Ye Garden" and Western Jing's Fortune Seal were hanging at the city gate, but had been stained dark by the smoke. Xu Lang lightly asked, "Military observer isn't entering the city?"
Zuo Canglang shook her head, saying, "I don't want to hear the sound of weeping."
The dark night once again descended on the border city, and the rain of blood and fire slowly spread, entering one's eyes and startling one's heart.
The next day, a startling piece of news between Great Yan and Western Jing was spread---- Yan troops ambushed Western Jing's Hui Ye garden, and like a pack of vicious beasts, sacked the city for a day. Hui Ye garden city's people were massacred to the person, include the old, the young, none were left.
Western Jing was enraged, and the imperial troops that had been busy competing with Tu He, Gu Zhu immediately returned to the east, attacking Suye city. Wenqi immediately rose to the fight, and under the pressure, could only pull back the troops sieging Jinyang back to Suye city, to fight against the Jing troops.
The threat against Jinyang was removed.
Zhou Xin took the battle report, and practically flew to Murong Yan's estate, almost falling off his horse. Murong Yan actually only calmly looked at him, as upon the battle report, Zuo Canglang's words had stained through the paper. He lightly asked, "Wenqi's troops withdrew?"
Zhou Xin raised his hand, using his sleeve to wipe his sweat, saying, "Reporting to your highness, they've pulled back! It was just before this subordinate rushed here, they had already disassembled their camp, and returned to Suye city!"
Murong Yan nodded, saying, "Very good. Wang Yunzhao, look at the officials from the imperial court, and see who is still within Jinyang city."
Wang Yunzhao acknowledged it, and called Feng Ping to search with him. King Yan, Murong Yuan, left in a hurry, and couldn't help but have some officials who cared about their families, their wealth, etc. who didn't follow along. Zhou Xin, and Xu Lang, upon entering Jinyang, had immediately sealed the gates. Even if they wanted to leave, they couldn't.
Murong Yan didn't actually trouble these people, just letting them continue to live within their own estates, only sending some of his personal guard to watch over them.
Among the officials that could not escape, the highest ranked official was of course left minister, Bi Cheng Jing. He originally did not approve of Murong Yuan escaping, and when the matter was being discussed, he actually wasn't present. Murong Yan invited him to his study, saying, "Minister Bi, these days, I've been busy with matters, so I haven't had the opportunity to come and visit. The soldiers have not bothered minister, have they?"
Bi Cheng Jing coldly harrumphed, "Murong Yan, you've come today, because you want to kill this old one, right? For many years, although I have had ambition, but never thought that you would be so reckless! You ever have the gall to force abdication, to do this type of treacherous and unfilial action! If you want to kill, then kill. I, Bi Cheng Jing, have supported three rulers of the Murong clan, and owe nothing!"
Murong Yan's eyebrow tilted in amusement, saying, "What does minister mean by these words. Minister is in court as an official, and has always been an incorruptible and steady one. Last time because of Western Jing, father king had me enter prison, and within the whole court, only minister helped speak in my favor. This type of grace, Murong Yan has always remembered."
Bi Cheng Jing said, "But I was just blind! If I had earlier known that you had this type of wolf's heart and dog's lungs1, and had this type of treacherous design, how would I have suggested to his majesty that type of ridiculous truth!"
Murong Yan sat across from him, at the desk, lifting the tea pot and pouring tea, waiting until he had finished cursing, before speaking, "Does minister really think this way?"
Bi Cheng Jing could already see that he didn't actually have the intent to kill him, saying, "Then what do you want to do, just speak frankly!"
Murong Yan said, "I want to overturn a case for someone."
Bi Cheng Jing wasn't curious, "Who?"
Murong Yan calmly said, "Yang Jiling."
Bi Cheng Jing was startled.
Murong Yan said, "Back then, the case with Yang family, I was out in the wild, and minister was in court. What the truth was, minister is more clear of than I am. Currently, I have found some evidence, which can prove that at the time Yang family was indeed framed. I've heard that back then, minister had suffered from a terrible headache, which was also cured entirely by doctor Yang Xuanhe. Yang Jiling was also one of your attendants. So thinking of it, towards this matter, minister shouldn't have any objections, right?"
Saying thus, he took out the evidence he had discovered, placing them one by one atop the desk. Bi Cheng Jing's hand shook as he reached out, opening them one by one.
A long time later, he said, "Murong Yan, back then, the matter of you saving Yang family's only descendant, you had already planned on using this matter as a stepping stone?"
Murong Yan smiled, saying, "No." Bi Cheng Jing looked at him, he said, "Earlier than that."
Bi Cheng Jing slowly crumpled to the floor, and Murong Yan said, "Minister is someone who's heart contains the greater good, and has always loved the people like himself. If I receive minister's support, no matter if it is me, or if it is Great Yan's people, it would be our fortune. If minister is unwilling, the one that loses out would only be Great Yan."
Bi Cheng Jing took those pieces of evidence, gripping them tightly in his hands, his teeth clenched, slowly saying, "What do you plan on doing to his majesty and the crown prince?"
Murong Yan said, "This many years, does minister still not understand me? What I have done this all for, minister should be the clearest about."
Bi Cheng Jing said, "I, I can write a memorandum, to help Yang family overturn the case. I can also convince the remaining officials, to all return to their posts. But you must promise, you can abolish the crown prince, and even break his relationship with Jiang family's miss up, but you must bring his majesty back, and you definitely cannot hurt him even a little bit."
Murong Yan said, "Very fair terms, I accept."
The second day, left minister Bi Cheng Jing appeared, and announced that Wei Yangji had hidden imperial robes, and secretly received bribes. Within court, he was peerless in his position, and with him running the show, the remaining court officials were all convinced by it. The court that had stopped, once again began working. Murong Yan appeared, and for Yang Xuanhe's family, restored their titles, and built a mausoleum for them to receive their offerings.
Jinyang city's people, who were originally stilled scared and restless, but after Murong Yan took the reigns of power, the first matter he undertook was attacking Western Jing's Hui Ye garden, and also being victorious. The second matter was helping Yang family overturn their framing. These two matters, naturally made everyone happy.
Not to mention, that his rebellion, was in the name of the ruler seizing a subject's wife, and stealing his younger brother's bride. This was naturally the crown prince's wrong in the first place. Since antiquity, within peoples' eyes, as long as someone had deep emotions, they wouldn't be too bad, and that's why, it didn't take but a few days, Jinyang, Daji city, and Xiaoji city all slowly calmed down.
The old officials in court rushed Murong Yan to bring Murong Yuan back, and Murong Yan ordered Bi Cheng Jing to send a letter to Yu Yang, requesting Murong Yuan execute the demonic queen of the Li clan, and abolish the virtue-less crown prince, and return to Jinyang. Murong Yuan, upon seeing the letter, immediately blew up in anger, immediately executing the messenger. He began making preparations to retake Jinyang, gathering his old supporters.
Murong Yan was looking at that letter, and while reading it, he smiled, "This time, father king is really angered to no end."
Feng Ping followed behind him, saying, "Could it be that your highness really intends on inviting his majesty back? If it really comes to that, I'm only afraid......"
Murong Yan raised his hand, stopping him from continuing to speak. Outside, someone had entered, and from afar, had yelled out, "Your highness! General Xu has brought the great army back to the city!"
Murong Yan's brow creased, and looked left and right, his face slowly growing depressed-- if the great army had returned to the city, at this time, Zuo Canglang should be in front of him. Indeed, the messenger continued, calling out, "General Xu ordered this subordinate to quickly send the message, as when the great army was pulling back, we ran into marshal Wen's troops, and for the sake of drawing the enemy troops away, military observer Zuo is currently still at Hui Ye garden, her location unknown!"
Murong Yan went forward two steps, lifting him up. Wang Yunzhao quickly reminded quietly, "Your highness! Your highness!"
Murong Yan slowly put him down, then when he opened his mouth again, his voice had recovered its calmness, "Open the city gates, and invite the great army into the city. Wang Yunzhao, I want to see Leng Feiyan."
Wang Yunzhao acknowledged the order, and quickly went to prepare. Murong Yan sat down behind the desk, once again spreading out a map of Hui Ye garden, as though studying it. Right at this time, Xu Lang entered, and once he entered, he immediately knelt, saying, "Your highness, this subject general deserves death!"
Murong Yan didn't lift his head, seriously saying, "You can't be blamed. Rise. Tell me what happened."
Xu Lang could only tell him what had happened, as after they had seized Hui Ye garden, the soldiers had pillaged the city for a day, and then, Zuo Canglang issued the order to pull back. Everyone went back on the route they came from, to White Wolf lake. Western Jing had already sent out pursuing troops, but because the terrain was complex, they couldn't chase them down, and so weren't a large hindrance. Who knew that once the large army was just about to walk out of the quicksand fields, Zhuge Jin, who had served under Wenqi's command, had actually brought a small group of soldiers to ambush the troops in their path of retreat.
The great army's retreat was hampered, and was almost caught up to by Western Jing's troops. Zuo Canglang had no other way, but could only bring a small group of soldiers to draw Zhuge Jin away, to give the great army time.
Murong Yan slowly listened to him finish, saying, "I know, General Xu has worked hard this whole way, so rest first."
Xu Lang wanted to speak more, but seeing that Murong Yan already didn't plan on saying more, he could only retreat, his heart feeling uneasy.
After he left, Leng Feiyan entered. The moment she entered, she discovered that something was wrong-- didn't they just say that Xu Lang had already returned to Jinyang? How come she didn't see Ah Zuo? Her heart was beating, and before she opened her mouth, Murong Yan already spoke, "Prepare a bit, and go on a trip with me to Hui Ye garden."
Leng Feiyan immediately knew the matter was not small, saying, "Yes."
She left to prepare water and rations, and some flints, maps, and as the sands had a lot of poisonous bugs, medicine was also necessary. Wang Yunzhao stood behind Murong Yan, his face filled with worry, "Your highness, must you personally go?"
Murong Yan deeply said, "Wang Yunzhao, if it was Wenqi that set up the ambush, then Ah Zuo is in danger."
Wang Yunzhao said, "Young master Zuo is extremely smart, and your highness has always been assured in her. Today, why are you suddenly so worried, ah?"
Murong Yan walked to the window. Outside, it was deep into summer, and the flowers were in full bloom. He said, "Because only Wenqi knows, how important she is to me. Wang Yunzhao, ten years of my effort, is about to slip through my fingers."
That afternoon, Murong Yan set up a feast in Jinyang, for Xu Lang and the many soldiers. The night had only half passed, and he had left under the excuse of being drunk. Afterwards, with Leng Feiyan, they dressed up and left the city, rushing for Hui Ye garden.
The current Hui Ye garden was already only a pile of burnt rubble. After the Yan troops pillaged the place, they had set fire, burning the entire city. Western Jing, to clean it up, still needed some time. Murong Yan and Leng Feiyan silently crossed White Wolf lake. At this, Leng Feiyan finally discovered that Murong Yan's martial capabilities were far beyond her expectations.
At this time, Western Jing still had small pockets of troops following the sands to search for Yan troops. Along the way, they had discovered many Yan troops' corpses. Looks like after a few days, the two sides had already gone through many savage battles. Leng Feiyan seized one of Zhuge Jin's subordinates, and interrogated the soldier. They learned that Zhuge Jin had already captured Zuo Canglang, and was currently on his way to return to Suye city.
Zuo Canglang was also very helpless, as Wenqi was more familiar with Hui Ye garden's terrain than she was by far. It was even that before she even prepared to enter Hui Ye garden, Wenqi had already guessed her next move. Thus, he prepared a perfect ambush in her route of retreat.
Zuo Canglang led a small group of soldiers, to lead Zhuge Jin around. Unfortunately, Zhuge Jin, this person, had really taken Wenqi's words to heart, and had set up a group to guard every point in the sands. He entirely didn't need to bother, as behind Zuo Canglang, there were the Jing troops. Even if he didn't move at all, the Jing troops would definitely push Zuo Canglang before him. Zuo Canglang couldn't help it, and could only fall into Zhuge Jin's hands.
Zhuge Jin actually didn't trouble her, after all, they had eaten and drank together as brothers in arms, and he followed Wenqi's orders, as the moment he captured Zuo Canglang, he would pull out, not engaging in prolonged fights.
Zuo Canglang didn't put in any particular resistance---- the orders did not matter whether she was dead or alive. Of course it was safer if she was obedient.
She was tied on top of a force, but because the terrain was complex, and they also had to avoid the people of Western Jing, the troops didn't march quickly. Not long after they had begun marching, Zuo Canglang opened her eyes, and noticed that the soldier escorting her had actually changed. She blinked her eyes, and that soldier also blinked its eyes at her.
Zuo Canglang practically thought she was dreaming---- she saw Leng Feiyan!
Leng Feiyan also didn't make a sound, but after the sky had darkened, she suddenly suppressed Zhuge Jin! The troop immediately became chaotic, and when one side became chaotic, it immediately drew the Jing troops over. At this time, Zhuge Jin was also only a small group of soldiers, and the Jing troops had over eight thousand troops searching the area.
If the two sides fought, the strong and the weak was obvious.
Zuo Canglang was still fretting, when suddenly someone released her. She turned around and saw Murong Yan, dressed in black, immediately being startled.
Murong Yan smiled, "What? Stunned?"
Zuo Canglang finally responded, "Lord master? How come you personally came; this place is really dangerous!"
Murong Yan pulled her up, and the two rushed through the area. His palm was wide and filled with strength, the black cloak was lifted by the wind, and it lightly brushed against her cheek. Zuo Canglang didn't pull her hand out, and in that moment, by her ear, there was the sound of chuckling, as though there was a poisonous bug touching it, slowly cutting open her clothes and skin, the blood blooming out. But she could only feel that he and her were grasping each other's hands, that type of temperature that slowly warmed away the cold.
The Western Jing troops lifted their torches, and they weren't entirely concealed. Someone discovered their movements, and began pursuing them. Zuo Canglang finally said, "Run separately!"
Murong Yan said, "Head towards the west, and don't return back. The way Wenqi uses troops, he is best at setting ambushes, and Zhuge Jin won't be his only card."
The two could only head west brainlessly, and although they avoided the small pockets of Jing troops temporarily, but they were rushed back into the center of the Jing troops' surrounded area. Zuo Canglang was worried about Leng Feiyan, but at this time, nobody could mind anyone else, and everyone could only flee on their own.
In front of them, there was another pocket of soldiers, and Zuo Canglang smilled bitterly. She didn't have a weapon, and could only push forward. Murong Yan hid in a small crevice, but the first place the Jing troops searched was these types of areas that were easy to hide people. Seeing that they were closing in on Murong Yan, Zuo Canglang could only rise, running for her life towards the right.
Western Jing's troops yelled in anger, and all separated to chase her. Zuo Canglang didn't know how long she ran for, but suddenly discovered that the pursuing troops behind her had disappeared, and the sand beneath her feet grew increasingly soft. Her heart startled, and she immediately stopped. The quicksand seemed as though it had boundless suction power, slowly swallowing her feet, her legs; her exposed body slowly sank.
The moonlight shined on the top of her head, and by her ears, she could hear a distant and close breathing. She couldn't move anymore, and she suddenly realized that she was going to be swallowed by this body of sand, to forever disappear, without leaving a trace of herself. This was the second day, she brushed by death before leaving. The first time was atop the southern mountain, in the mountain deities' temple. There was a cave that was deep with no knowledge of its depth. At that time, the pack of snakes had eaten her companion's body. She was so scared it was as though her gall and bladder had ripped apart, petrifying her.
But this time, she didn't move at all in the quicksand. There were two people, who had traveled far and wide to search for her.
Her sixteen year old heart, was like the new moon, calm and peaceful.
TN: 1. Essentially saying, heart of a beast.
After a single meal, Zuo Canglang left, calling for Xu Lang, the two of them gathered troops for Hui Ye garden. Hui Ye garden was coincidentally in a line with White Wolf lake, and the terrain was extremely complex. Xu Lang said, "Hui Ye garden has a lot of quicksand, so when we bring troops towards there, there is a lot of risk, ah."
Zuo Canglang said, "His second highness didn't have much support within court, and currently, the people of Jinyang are still unacquainted with him. The only thing they know, is that the crown prince had taken miss Jiang by force. He needs to do a few events that quickly improves the peoples' morale, to establish his popularity amongst the people. Don't think that since we have taken Jinyang city now, as that is just a joke. Once Marshal Wen sends troops, or if his majesty gathers his old troops, we will be trapped in the middle, and in that situation it will truly be the situation where the heavens will give no route to traverse, and the earth will close its doors to us."
Xu Lang said, "I also know this, but Ah Zuo, do you think...... his second highness really has a chance of victory?"
Zuo Canglang turned back, and beneath the brazier light by Jinyang city's gate, her two eyes were deep, and a long time later, said, "He has."
Xu Lang was startled.
The two gathered troops throughout the night, and immediately made a b-line for Yi river, and followed White Wolf lake's flow, and after passing Yi river, they reformed the troops, and before ten days had passed, they had already arrived on the eastern side of White Wolf lake. And at this time, Wenqi's vanguard had just arrived before Jinyang city.
Jinyang city was devoid of soldiers or generals within, and was practically an empty city.
Murong Yan stood atop the city wall, and looked at the several tens of thousands of troops beneath the city wall. Zhou Xin quickly yelled out, saying, "Your highness, it's better if you go down, as once battle begins, we have no chance of victory, ah!"
Murong Yan said, "Even so, whether I stand at the head of the gate or at the bottom before the gate, what difference does it make?"
Zhou Xin said, "Counting it now, it has been ten days since miss Ah Zuo and Xu Lang's brought soldiers to ambush Hui Ye garden, so how come there hasn't been any news."
Murong Yan smiled, saying, "Zhou Xin, how long can you hold Jinyang city?"
Zhou Xin's face turned serious, and looking within and outside the city, said, "Your highness, this subject since little had followed Jieyu Rong, and although her ladyship has gone for many years, but her great grace and great virtue, this subject will never forget his entire lifetime. Currently, Jinyang city is in a perilous situation, but as long as this subject still has a single breath left, this subject will definitely not let Wenqi's troops take a single step inside."
Murong Yan said, "Hold it for a single day, can you?"
Zhou Xin's face was a little bit strange, and he quickly knelt, saying, "Jinyang city has high and thick walls, so this subject has confidence in holding it for three days."
Murong Yan nodded, lightly saying, "That is enough."
Jinyang city was being attacked, and news of it spread to Yi river's side. Xu Lang quickly ordered the troops, "Immediately lock down the news, and if it is spread even partially, and messes up our troops morale, kill!"
The messenger soldier knelt down, and Zuo Canglang received the battle report, but actually before all of the soldiers, read it word for word. Xu Lang was extremely startled, "Military advisor?"
Zuo Canglang sought fun, and threw the military uniform on the ground, looking at all the troops, saying, "Just a moment ago, what I had said, has everyone heard it? Currently Jinyang city is just suffering from heavy attacks, and we have already been declared as rebel soldiers by his majesty. If in this battle, we cannot take Hui Ye garden, Jinyang will definitely fall. Once Jinyang falls, we will definitely become traitors and rebels. Not only us, but our homes and our relatives, the old and the young, will also be executed by association, and there will be no hope of survival."
By White Wolf lake, the soldiers that had marched for ten days were suddenly alarmed, and Zuo Canglang said, "However, if we take Hui Ye garden, Marshal Wen will definitely pull troops back to guard the border, to prevent Western Jing from invading. At that time, the danger to Jinyang city will be removed, and when his second highness ascends, you all will all be merited officials."
Nobody spoke, and everyone stood upright. Zuo Canglang said, "Right now, we will prepare our meal here, we will have a full meal, and then, we will discard everything burdening us, we will destroy our route of retreat, and breach Hui Ye garden!"
The whole army cheered, and immediately took out the cutlery and prepared their meal. After midnight, the whole army silently crossed White Wolf river, and Zuo Canglang chose a few old soldiers to scout the way, as they were extremely familiar with the quicksand terrain there. But even so, there were many soldiers that were lost there.
The journeyed with haste, in such a rush that the second night, Hui Ye garden's gate was before their eyes.
Zuo Canglang choose a small group of elite troops to dress up as refugees, going forward to request assistance. These men had crossed a river and been covered with sand, so they didn't even need to dress up to pretend to be refugees. And Zuo Canglang didn't miscalculate matters, as Hui Ye garden's garrison was actually very loose. For so many years, Great Yan had never attacked Western Jing even half a step. Hui Ye garden also had a natural terrain as a barrier, and practically no one would have thought, there would be troops about to attack.
The small group of refugees got into a row with the guards at the gate, and suddenly became violent, murdering the city guard.
Zuo Canglang quickly entered the city, and using her bow, quickly killed the head guards of the city. When the advance troops made their war cries into the city, the guards in the city had not yet responded. And right at this time, the troops that Xu Lang brought immediately attacked into the city.
Western Jing's people could only flee for their lives. Xu Lang looked at Zuo Canglang asking, "Military advisor, how about we enter the city?"
Zuo Canglang looked at him, then looked at the soldiers that were busy slaying the enemy, suddenly saying, "Great Yan's soldiers, listen to the order: Western Jing's people have oppressed my Great Yan for a long time. Today, it is the day for the people of Yan to finally unleash their rage! After entering the city, pillage the city for a day. By this time tomorrow, any items seized, will belong to whomever seized it!"
The troops immediately unleashed a cheer into the air, and the sound of killing intensified. Xu Lang's expression changed, "Military observer! At this time, our troops are like a disorganized mob, and once the order to pillage the city is given, by this time tomorrow, I'm only afraid that Hui Ye garden wil not have a single Western Jing person!"
Zuo Canglang raised her head, looking at the city wall, saying, "Yeah, ah. Tomorrow by this time, Hui Ye garden will become an empty city."
Xu Lang still wanted to say something, but she then said, "But we are out of supplies. Western Jing's people are strong and vicious, so if we flee at this time, they will send pursuers. After they respond, they will definitely resist. And our troops have continuously marched for more than ten days, and are already exhausted. Once we are defeated, the consequences are unimaginable."
Xu Lang couldn't say anything else. Within the city, flames lit up in various places, strong and blinding. Zuo Canglang kept standing by the city gate. The three words, "Hui Ye Garden" and Western Jing's Fortune Seal were hanging at the city gate, but had been stained dark by the smoke. Xu Lang lightly asked, "Military observer isn't entering the city?"
Zuo Canglang shook her head, saying, "I don't want to hear the sound of weeping."
The dark night once again descended on the border city, and the rain of blood and fire slowly spread, entering one's eyes and startling one's heart.
The next day, a startling piece of news between Great Yan and Western Jing was spread---- Yan troops ambushed Western Jing's Hui Ye garden, and like a pack of vicious beasts, sacked the city for a day. Hui Ye garden city's people were massacred to the person, include the old, the young, none were left.
Western Jing was enraged, and the imperial troops that had been busy competing with Tu He, Gu Zhu immediately returned to the east, attacking Suye city. Wenqi immediately rose to the fight, and under the pressure, could only pull back the troops sieging Jinyang back to Suye city, to fight against the Jing troops.
The threat against Jinyang was removed.
Zhou Xin took the battle report, and practically flew to Murong Yan's estate, almost falling off his horse. Murong Yan actually only calmly looked at him, as upon the battle report, Zuo Canglang's words had stained through the paper. He lightly asked, "Wenqi's troops withdrew?"
Zhou Xin raised his hand, using his sleeve to wipe his sweat, saying, "Reporting to your highness, they've pulled back! It was just before this subordinate rushed here, they had already disassembled their camp, and returned to Suye city!"
Murong Yan nodded, saying, "Very good. Wang Yunzhao, look at the officials from the imperial court, and see who is still within Jinyang city."
Wang Yunzhao acknowledged it, and called Feng Ping to search with him. King Yan, Murong Yuan, left in a hurry, and couldn't help but have some officials who cared about their families, their wealth, etc. who didn't follow along. Zhou Xin, and Xu Lang, upon entering Jinyang, had immediately sealed the gates. Even if they wanted to leave, they couldn't.
Murong Yan didn't actually trouble these people, just letting them continue to live within their own estates, only sending some of his personal guard to watch over them.
Among the officials that could not escape, the highest ranked official was of course left minister, Bi Cheng Jing. He originally did not approve of Murong Yuan escaping, and when the matter was being discussed, he actually wasn't present. Murong Yan invited him to his study, saying, "Minister Bi, these days, I've been busy with matters, so I haven't had the opportunity to come and visit. The soldiers have not bothered minister, have they?"
Bi Cheng Jing coldly harrumphed, "Murong Yan, you've come today, because you want to kill this old one, right? For many years, although I have had ambition, but never thought that you would be so reckless! You ever have the gall to force abdication, to do this type of treacherous and unfilial action! If you want to kill, then kill. I, Bi Cheng Jing, have supported three rulers of the Murong clan, and owe nothing!"
Murong Yan's eyebrow tilted in amusement, saying, "What does minister mean by these words. Minister is in court as an official, and has always been an incorruptible and steady one. Last time because of Western Jing, father king had me enter prison, and within the whole court, only minister helped speak in my favor. This type of grace, Murong Yan has always remembered."
Bi Cheng Jing said, "But I was just blind! If I had earlier known that you had this type of wolf's heart and dog's lungs1, and had this type of treacherous design, how would I have suggested to his majesty that type of ridiculous truth!"
Murong Yan sat across from him, at the desk, lifting the tea pot and pouring tea, waiting until he had finished cursing, before speaking, "Does minister really think this way?"
Bi Cheng Jing could already see that he didn't actually have the intent to kill him, saying, "Then what do you want to do, just speak frankly!"
Murong Yan said, "I want to overturn a case for someone."
Bi Cheng Jing wasn't curious, "Who?"
Murong Yan calmly said, "Yang Jiling."
Bi Cheng Jing was startled.
Murong Yan said, "Back then, the case with Yang family, I was out in the wild, and minister was in court. What the truth was, minister is more clear of than I am. Currently, I have found some evidence, which can prove that at the time Yang family was indeed framed. I've heard that back then, minister had suffered from a terrible headache, which was also cured entirely by doctor Yang Xuanhe. Yang Jiling was also one of your attendants. So thinking of it, towards this matter, minister shouldn't have any objections, right?"
Saying thus, he took out the evidence he had discovered, placing them one by one atop the desk. Bi Cheng Jing's hand shook as he reached out, opening them one by one.
A long time later, he said, "Murong Yan, back then, the matter of you saving Yang family's only descendant, you had already planned on using this matter as a stepping stone?"
Murong Yan smiled, saying, "No." Bi Cheng Jing looked at him, he said, "Earlier than that."
Bi Cheng Jing slowly crumpled to the floor, and Murong Yan said, "Minister is someone who's heart contains the greater good, and has always loved the people like himself. If I receive minister's support, no matter if it is me, or if it is Great Yan's people, it would be our fortune. If minister is unwilling, the one that loses out would only be Great Yan."
Bi Cheng Jing took those pieces of evidence, gripping them tightly in his hands, his teeth clenched, slowly saying, "What do you plan on doing to his majesty and the crown prince?"
Murong Yan said, "This many years, does minister still not understand me? What I have done this all for, minister should be the clearest about."
Bi Cheng Jing said, "I, I can write a memorandum, to help Yang family overturn the case. I can also convince the remaining officials, to all return to their posts. But you must promise, you can abolish the crown prince, and even break his relationship with Jiang family's miss up, but you must bring his majesty back, and you definitely cannot hurt him even a little bit."
Murong Yan said, "Very fair terms, I accept."
The second day, left minister Bi Cheng Jing appeared, and announced that Wei Yangji had hidden imperial robes, and secretly received bribes. Within court, he was peerless in his position, and with him running the show, the remaining court officials were all convinced by it. The court that had stopped, once again began working. Murong Yan appeared, and for Yang Xuanhe's family, restored their titles, and built a mausoleum for them to receive their offerings.
Jinyang city's people, who were originally stilled scared and restless, but after Murong Yan took the reigns of power, the first matter he undertook was attacking Western Jing's Hui Ye garden, and also being victorious. The second matter was helping Yang family overturn their framing. These two matters, naturally made everyone happy.
Not to mention, that his rebellion, was in the name of the ruler seizing a subject's wife, and stealing his younger brother's bride. This was naturally the crown prince's wrong in the first place. Since antiquity, within peoples' eyes, as long as someone had deep emotions, they wouldn't be too bad, and that's why, it didn't take but a few days, Jinyang, Daji city, and Xiaoji city all slowly calmed down.
The old officials in court rushed Murong Yan to bring Murong Yuan back, and Murong Yan ordered Bi Cheng Jing to send a letter to Yu Yang, requesting Murong Yuan execute the demonic queen of the Li clan, and abolish the virtue-less crown prince, and return to Jinyang. Murong Yuan, upon seeing the letter, immediately blew up in anger, immediately executing the messenger. He began making preparations to retake Jinyang, gathering his old supporters.
Murong Yan was looking at that letter, and while reading it, he smiled, "This time, father king is really angered to no end."
Feng Ping followed behind him, saying, "Could it be that your highness really intends on inviting his majesty back? If it really comes to that, I'm only afraid......"
Murong Yan raised his hand, stopping him from continuing to speak. Outside, someone had entered, and from afar, had yelled out, "Your highness! General Xu has brought the great army back to the city!"
Murong Yan's brow creased, and looked left and right, his face slowly growing depressed-- if the great army had returned to the city, at this time, Zuo Canglang should be in front of him. Indeed, the messenger continued, calling out, "General Xu ordered this subordinate to quickly send the message, as when the great army was pulling back, we ran into marshal Wen's troops, and for the sake of drawing the enemy troops away, military observer Zuo is currently still at Hui Ye garden, her location unknown!"
Murong Yan went forward two steps, lifting him up. Wang Yunzhao quickly reminded quietly, "Your highness! Your highness!"
Murong Yan slowly put him down, then when he opened his mouth again, his voice had recovered its calmness, "Open the city gates, and invite the great army into the city. Wang Yunzhao, I want to see Leng Feiyan."
Wang Yunzhao acknowledged the order, and quickly went to prepare. Murong Yan sat down behind the desk, once again spreading out a map of Hui Ye garden, as though studying it. Right at this time, Xu Lang entered, and once he entered, he immediately knelt, saying, "Your highness, this subject general deserves death!"
Murong Yan didn't lift his head, seriously saying, "You can't be blamed. Rise. Tell me what happened."
Xu Lang could only tell him what had happened, as after they had seized Hui Ye garden, the soldiers had pillaged the city for a day, and then, Zuo Canglang issued the order to pull back. Everyone went back on the route they came from, to White Wolf lake. Western Jing had already sent out pursuing troops, but because the terrain was complex, they couldn't chase them down, and so weren't a large hindrance. Who knew that once the large army was just about to walk out of the quicksand fields, Zhuge Jin, who had served under Wenqi's command, had actually brought a small group of soldiers to ambush the troops in their path of retreat.
The great army's retreat was hampered, and was almost caught up to by Western Jing's troops. Zuo Canglang had no other way, but could only bring a small group of soldiers to draw Zhuge Jin away, to give the great army time.
Murong Yan slowly listened to him finish, saying, "I know, General Xu has worked hard this whole way, so rest first."
Xu Lang wanted to speak more, but seeing that Murong Yan already didn't plan on saying more, he could only retreat, his heart feeling uneasy.
After he left, Leng Feiyan entered. The moment she entered, she discovered that something was wrong-- didn't they just say that Xu Lang had already returned to Jinyang? How come she didn't see Ah Zuo? Her heart was beating, and before she opened her mouth, Murong Yan already spoke, "Prepare a bit, and go on a trip with me to Hui Ye garden."
Leng Feiyan immediately knew the matter was not small, saying, "Yes."
She left to prepare water and rations, and some flints, maps, and as the sands had a lot of poisonous bugs, medicine was also necessary. Wang Yunzhao stood behind Murong Yan, his face filled with worry, "Your highness, must you personally go?"
Murong Yan deeply said, "Wang Yunzhao, if it was Wenqi that set up the ambush, then Ah Zuo is in danger."
Wang Yunzhao said, "Young master Zuo is extremely smart, and your highness has always been assured in her. Today, why are you suddenly so worried, ah?"
Murong Yan walked to the window. Outside, it was deep into summer, and the flowers were in full bloom. He said, "Because only Wenqi knows, how important she is to me. Wang Yunzhao, ten years of my effort, is about to slip through my fingers."
That afternoon, Murong Yan set up a feast in Jinyang, for Xu Lang and the many soldiers. The night had only half passed, and he had left under the excuse of being drunk. Afterwards, with Leng Feiyan, they dressed up and left the city, rushing for Hui Ye garden.
The current Hui Ye garden was already only a pile of burnt rubble. After the Yan troops pillaged the place, they had set fire, burning the entire city. Western Jing, to clean it up, still needed some time. Murong Yan and Leng Feiyan silently crossed White Wolf lake. At this, Leng Feiyan finally discovered that Murong Yan's martial capabilities were far beyond her expectations.
At this time, Western Jing still had small pockets of troops following the sands to search for Yan troops. Along the way, they had discovered many Yan troops' corpses. Looks like after a few days, the two sides had already gone through many savage battles. Leng Feiyan seized one of Zhuge Jin's subordinates, and interrogated the soldier. They learned that Zhuge Jin had already captured Zuo Canglang, and was currently on his way to return to Suye city.
Zuo Canglang was also very helpless, as Wenqi was more familiar with Hui Ye garden's terrain than she was by far. It was even that before she even prepared to enter Hui Ye garden, Wenqi had already guessed her next move. Thus, he prepared a perfect ambush in her route of retreat.
Zuo Canglang led a small group of soldiers, to lead Zhuge Jin around. Unfortunately, Zhuge Jin, this person, had really taken Wenqi's words to heart, and had set up a group to guard every point in the sands. He entirely didn't need to bother, as behind Zuo Canglang, there were the Jing troops. Even if he didn't move at all, the Jing troops would definitely push Zuo Canglang before him. Zuo Canglang couldn't help it, and could only fall into Zhuge Jin's hands.
Zhuge Jin actually didn't trouble her, after all, they had eaten and drank together as brothers in arms, and he followed Wenqi's orders, as the moment he captured Zuo Canglang, he would pull out, not engaging in prolonged fights.
Zuo Canglang didn't put in any particular resistance---- the orders did not matter whether she was dead or alive. Of course it was safer if she was obedient.
She was tied on top of a force, but because the terrain was complex, and they also had to avoid the people of Western Jing, the troops didn't march quickly. Not long after they had begun marching, Zuo Canglang opened her eyes, and noticed that the soldier escorting her had actually changed. She blinked her eyes, and that soldier also blinked its eyes at her.
Zuo Canglang practically thought she was dreaming---- she saw Leng Feiyan!
Leng Feiyan also didn't make a sound, but after the sky had darkened, she suddenly suppressed Zhuge Jin! The troop immediately became chaotic, and when one side became chaotic, it immediately drew the Jing troops over. At this time, Zhuge Jin was also only a small group of soldiers, and the Jing troops had over eight thousand troops searching the area.
If the two sides fought, the strong and the weak was obvious.
Zuo Canglang was still fretting, when suddenly someone released her. She turned around and saw Murong Yan, dressed in black, immediately being startled.
Murong Yan smiled, "What? Stunned?"
Zuo Canglang finally responded, "Lord master? How come you personally came; this place is really dangerous!"
Murong Yan pulled her up, and the two rushed through the area. His palm was wide and filled with strength, the black cloak was lifted by the wind, and it lightly brushed against her cheek. Zuo Canglang didn't pull her hand out, and in that moment, by her ear, there was the sound of chuckling, as though there was a poisonous bug touching it, slowly cutting open her clothes and skin, the blood blooming out. But she could only feel that he and her were grasping each other's hands, that type of temperature that slowly warmed away the cold.
The Western Jing troops lifted their torches, and they weren't entirely concealed. Someone discovered their movements, and began pursuing them. Zuo Canglang finally said, "Run separately!"
Murong Yan said, "Head towards the west, and don't return back. The way Wenqi uses troops, he is best at setting ambushes, and Zhuge Jin won't be his only card."
The two could only head west brainlessly, and although they avoided the small pockets of Jing troops temporarily, but they were rushed back into the center of the Jing troops' surrounded area. Zuo Canglang was worried about Leng Feiyan, but at this time, nobody could mind anyone else, and everyone could only flee on their own.
In front of them, there was another pocket of soldiers, and Zuo Canglang smilled bitterly. She didn't have a weapon, and could only push forward. Murong Yan hid in a small crevice, but the first place the Jing troops searched was these types of areas that were easy to hide people. Seeing that they were closing in on Murong Yan, Zuo Canglang could only rise, running for her life towards the right.
Western Jing's troops yelled in anger, and all separated to chase her. Zuo Canglang didn't know how long she ran for, but suddenly discovered that the pursuing troops behind her had disappeared, and the sand beneath her feet grew increasingly soft. Her heart startled, and she immediately stopped. The quicksand seemed as though it had boundless suction power, slowly swallowing her feet, her legs; her exposed body slowly sank.
The moonlight shined on the top of her head, and by her ears, she could hear a distant and close breathing. She couldn't move anymore, and she suddenly realized that she was going to be swallowed by this body of sand, to forever disappear, without leaving a trace of herself. This was the second day, she brushed by death before leaving. The first time was atop the southern mountain, in the mountain deities' temple. There was a cave that was deep with no knowledge of its depth. At that time, the pack of snakes had eaten her companion's body. She was so scared it was as though her gall and bladder had ripped apart, petrifying her.
But this time, she didn't move at all in the quicksand. There were two people, who had traveled far and wide to search for her.
Her sixteen year old heart, was like the new moon, calm and peaceful.
TN: 1. Essentially saying, heart of a beast.
