[Wuxia] April in the Human World (Complete) - 5

page views:1 Publication date:2023-09-15

Chapter 22 A Glimpse of Brilliance

Sunlight filtered through the layers of pine branches, casting dappled patterns of light.

The three of us sat under a small tea pavilion beneath a large tree, resting, our backs drenched in sweat.

I bent down, massaging my thighs, sore from riding.

"Miss." Gu Chen poured a cup of tea and handed it to me.

"Hmm, thank you." I smiled and took it, taking a small sip. Gu Chen and Han Yi were people my father had given me.

"Miss, you're too kind." Gu Chen bowed, her eyes lowered, her expression still calm.

"It's been a few days since I left. I wonder how things are at the military camp now?" Chang Kongyu had fainted several times because of my 'death,' and Gu Chen said that Chang Kongyu had fainted again while the body was being transported.

Our fingers intertwined, nails digging deep into our palms. I always knew Chang Kongyu's feelings for me were deep, but I never knew they would be so deep as to cause him to 'faint several times'!

For some reason, my heart clenched, and my throat tightened. How could I not be moved by such a man?

"Don't worry, Miss, the Prime Minister and the Air Force Strategist are incredibly wise and resourceful. This war will surely end soon," Han Yi said with a smile, trying to comfort me.

I glanced back at him and smiled calmly. "Han Yi, although I've never been on a battlefield, I'm not an ignorant woman. You don't need to try to fob me off with these words." I paused, took a sip of tea, and continued, "Ghost Valley is famous for its mechanical arts, everyone knows that, and I personally witnessed Feng Yu transform an umbrella in his hand into a longsword in an instant!

One leaf can tell the coming of autumn; one can imagine that the weapons his soldiers wield are also extraordinary." In the era of cold weapons, wielding advanced weapons on the battlefield undoubtedly gave one a significant advantage and enhanced the combat effectiveness of soldiers. “Besides, Feng Yu is a master of poisons… Even if Father and Husband are incredibly 'wise and resourceful,' they won’t be able to handle this easily. This war… will probably last for several years.” I analyzed casually, but my heart was filled with anxiety. From every perspective, our side is the weaker party in this war.

Gu Chen’s expression changed in surprise, clearly not expecting such extraordinary insights from a young girl. He couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. She truly deserves to be the daughter of Prime Minister Baili.

If it were still a peaceful era, I would be content to enjoy the protection of my father and Chang Kongyu, but now they are both facing an extremely powerful enemy on the battlefield! How could I leave in peace at this time?

Moreover, if this war continues for several more years, this prosperous era will probably be over, and the people will surely suffer.

In the era of cold weapons, the most important thing is weaponry; possessing novel weapons can often change the outcome of a war. Although there were many powerful weapons in my past life, I didn't know many of them. Except for one: the crossbow. Back then, I was extremely fond of one weapon.

Driven by this passion, I frantically searched the internet, finding numerous crossbow manufacturing methods.

The crossbow has a long history in China. It was already a favorite in military affairs during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, and during the Qin and Han dynasties, it became the most numerous weapon in the army's arsenal (Qin Shi Huang's unification of China was largely due to his advanced weaponry). Larger crossbows appeared at the end of the Eastern Han dynasty, with Zhuge Liang's repeating crossbow being the most well-known. Further development during the Tang dynasty led to the crossbow's most brilliant peak in manufacturing and application during the Song dynasty. —Because in subsequent dynasties, the crossbow gradually faded from the Chinese military stage.

"The crossbow originated from the bow, and the bow was born from the slingshot." The crossbow can be considered a close relative of the bow. In my previous world, people also liked to refer to the bow and crossbow together as "bow and crossbow." However, bows existed in many countries in that world, while crossbows were uniquely developed in China. China was arguably the only country in that world to have successfully developed and popularized the crossbow.

This era is somewhat similar to ancient China, but it's not our time. In this era, there were bows, but no crossbows.

I was immediately invigorated. If I could make a crossbow, it would definitely help my father and Chang Kongyu!

However, I only knew a general method of crossbow manufacturing. The most important thing to transform this knowledge into a real crossbow was to find a unique carpenter. And in ancient times, who could make weapons better than those from Guiyue Valley?

Therefore, I needed to find someone to make crossbows, and Yu Mu of the Guiyue Sect was undoubtedly the most suitable candidate.

After thinking for a moment, I looked up and asked, "How long does it take to get to Guiyue Valley from here?"

"Miss, the Prime Minister wants us to escort you back to the capital!" Gu Chen frowned.

I waved my hand lazily and said, "Don't try to persuade me yet. Buy me some brushes, ink, and white silk. You can decide whether to return to the capital now after you've seen my drawing."

I

spent the entire afternoon meticulously sketching the design in my mind onto the white silk.

I unfolded the silk and, seeing the detailed manufacturing diagram, smiled with satisfaction.

I opened the inn's door and called them in.

"Miss, this is improper." Gu Chen stepped back, his handsome figure standing tall at the door without entering.

"In these extraordinary times, you can temporarily waive those formalities." I rubbed my temples, quite annoyed by the ancient custom of 'men and women not touching each other.'

Seeing them still standing there, I sternly commanded, "Stop dawdling! Come in now!"

"Yes." They bowed to me simultaneously before stepping into the room.

I spread the white silk cloth on the round table and glanced at them. "Stand closer." How could they see the diagram clearly when they were standing so far away?

"Yes." They stiffly moved a few steps closer to me, but the distance was still a bit far. However, I thought they should be able to see it with their eyesight, so I didn't say anything more.

I pointed to the diagram on the silk cloth and slowly explained, "The name of what I've drawn is crossbow. And this crossbow can automatically draw the string and load arrows." "

The box on top is called an arrow magazine, which can hold some iron arrows. The two iron arrows at the bottom can be fired from the front hole. After firing, the arrows in the upper layer automatically sink down to fire a second time. This increases the speed of firing, which means gaining the upper hand on the battlefield."

"This is called a connecting rod, which works in conjunction with the principle of leverage—" I suddenly realized that the ancients might not have known what a lever was, "Uh, it means that with this connecting rod, the bowstring that an archer would normally have to pull with great effort can be pulled very easily." I've heard that archers can fire a maximum of fifteen to twenty arrows before collapsing from exhaustion. (In my past life's movies and TV shows, the most common scene I saw was archers lined up in several rows. After the front row fired a few arrows, they would retreat to the back, and the second row of archers would take their place. This continued in a cycle. The scene was grand and the momentum was awe-inspiring!)

Seeing that they were still confused, I had to explain it more clearly, "For example, if a bowstring requires fifty pounds of pulling force to draw, with this connecting rod, only twenty-five pounds of pulling force is needed to draw the bow, thus saving the archers' strength..." "

Crossbow bolts need to be placed on a crossbow mechanism to be fired, so their length is directly related to the length of the crossbow mechanism. Since the length of the crossbow bolt directly affects the firing effect (too light and it won't shoot deep, too heavy and it won't shoot far), the length of the crossbow bolt is designed to be eight inches (about 20 centimeters) considering the weight." Historical records state that the bolts of the Zhuge Repeating Crossbow were about eight inches long, so let's set this one at eight inches as well.

"And for the bow, let's make it out of bamboo." In ancient times, it seemed there was no better material than bamboo for making bows.

“Miss, can we try making one to see how it works?” Han Yi stroked her chin, clearly interested in the crossbow in my drawing.

“Hmm, sure, you can try making one first to see how it works.” I nodded and handed Han Yi the crossbow diagram on the table.

**

So, using these diagrams, they made the crossbow.

** Han Yi lifted the crossbow, aimed the small hole at the tree, pulled the lever, raised the connecting rod, pulled the bowstring to the slot, and then pulled the lever down. The pressure fired two bolts from the two small holes, embedding them firmly in the tree trunk. Because there were iron arrows in the quiver, Han Yi fired many more arrows.

“This thing can not only fire two arrows at once, but it can also keep firing as long as there are arrows in the quiver.” Gu Chenjun’s face was filled with astonishment. "This kind of mechanism is amazing. If it could be used on the battlefield, it would undoubtedly be a blessing for our army and the people."

"Moreover, I only used a little force just now. Just as Miss said, you only need half the force to draw this bow." Miss is indeed extraordinary.

**

"Miss! We made one, and the effect is just as you said." Gu Chenming's tone was much more respectful, not the initial polite respect, but the respect one has for an 'idol'.

I glanced at him uncomfortably. "I'm not smarter than you, I just read more books. So don't look at me like that." I shuddered, feeling uncomfortable being looked at like that by someone who was usually so proud.

"Yes, Miss." Gu Chenming blushed and lowered his head.

I took the crossbow they made and played with it in my hands, aiming at a reference point and firing. I can even draw this crossbow now, and I'm quite comfortable using it.

"Miss, we can mass-produce this kind of crossbow," Gu Chenming said.

“Hmm.” I nodded. “That’s exactly what I was thinking.”

“Miss, then I’ll go find a craftsman right now.” Han Yi said with a smile, his body eagerly running towards the door.

I shook my head and quickly stopped him. “No need to look, let’s go to Ghost Leap Valley.”

“Miss, we can just find a craftsman to make it, why go to Ghost Leap Valley?” Han Yi turned back, puzzled.

“The crossbows we’re making now aren’t powerful enough. I think if they could be improved by Ghost Leap Valley, their power would definitely increase several times over.”

“Would the Ghost Leap Valley lord agree?” Han Yi asked. Gu

Chen frowned thoughtfully. “There’s no need to worry about that. The reason Ghost Leap Valley’s mechanical arts are so powerful is because they’ve incorporated a lot of superb folk techniques. They’ve combined the strengths of various schools. Miss, Yu Mu will definitely agree to accept your design.”

“Of course.” I smiled smugly. There was no doubt that the crossbow design I had would attract his attention. After all, crossbows have been used in China for thousands of years.

Han Yi sighed, "I know all that, of course, but how do we get Yu Mu to give us the crossbows he made?" That's the most troublesome question. Still relying on our hands? How can that be satisfying? Forum reputation guaranteed! High-grade silicone video Fan Bingbing's lower body realistically molded into a highly realistic vulva shape, soft and delicate skin! Built-in large particle protrusions, close to the female physiological structure, experience a more realistic feeling... well-proportioned, irresistible! Click to enter.

I lowered my eyebrows, and when I looked up again, my eyes were filled with determination, "Let's give it a try. I have a feeling that Yu Mu will definitely agree to help us make crossbows."

☆☆

Chapter 023 Ghost Yue Yu Mu

A young man in purple and two men in black stood elegantly in front of the Ghost Yue gate.

Because my skin was too fair, I applied some oil to it, which couldn't be washed off with water unless I used a special medicine.

The color was natural on my skin, and most importantly, it didn't make me feel uncomfortable at all. "Hey, Han Yi! Where did you get these medicines?" Han Yi not only gave me medicine to change my skin, but also medicine to change my voice, and even made me a fake Adam's apple.

"We even have medicine to fake death, why are you curious about this kind of medicine, Miss?" Han Yi smiled calmly.

"That's true." I smiled. But these medicines are actually rare items, but seeing that the two of them didn't seem to care at all, it seems that these two people must have a high status in the Baili family.

"Miss, how could you give them the construction map just now? What if they don't acknowledge it?" Han Yi asked with a frown.

I shook my head and smiled, "The Ghost Yue Sect claims to exist for the purpose of relieving the suffering of the common people, they certainly wouldn't covet our map."

As soon as I finished speaking, the blue-clad man who had gone in to report came out and bowed to us, saying, "My Valley Master invites you to come in."

I also bowed to him and smiled, "Thank you for your trouble."

Ghost Yue Valley, as the name suggests, is located in a flat valley. But it wasn't the wild, mountain-surrounded valley I had imagined. Ghost Valley was more like a magnificent palace.

Along the way, we saw ethereal clouds, numerous pavilions and towering buildings, roads paved with jade-white bricks, and carved railings and red pillars everywhere.

The surrounding vegetation was lush, the wind rustled through the trees, and the birdsong was melodious—it was truly a fairyland.

The man in blue led us past seven or eight magnificent buildings, up a long stone staircase, to the reception hall of Ghost Valley.

Climbing the ninety-nine flower-stone steps, looking back, we could take in the entire panorama of the mist-shrouded mountains and vegetation—a testament to how high these steps were!

After passing through the imposing gate several meters high, the man in blue bowed respectfully to the person reclining on the large couch carved with a blue dragon in the center of the hall, who was looking at a drawing, and reported, "Valley Master, the person has arrived."

"Hmm." He responded softly, raised his head, and waved his wide, sky-blue sleeve lightly, "You may leave now."

"Yes." The man in blue took a few steps back before turning and leaving.

Was he Yu Mu? The person before him, like Feng Yu, also had a compassionate face.

His clear, dark eyes revealed a subtle compassion when he looked up.

Although he lacked the breathtaking beauty of Feng Yu, he was still so beautiful that one couldn't look away.

Yes, if Feng Yu was like a Buddha and a demon, then Yu Mu was like a Buddha and a celestial being.

"Who drew this structural diagram?" He slightly raised his eyes, his pupils shimmering with watery light and shadow, dreamlike and ethereal.

"It was drawn by my young master," Gu Chen replied, indicating that it was me.

He glanced at me casually with his dark eyes and said, "Young master, you have good talent."

Feng Yu gave me a strange feeling, but this person in front of me gave me a cold feeling.

Tch! Although he looks kind, he may not necessarily have a compassionate heart.

"Valley Master, you flatter me." I bowed again.

"Gui Yue has collected this construction drawing of yours. Now, you can make a request to Gui Yue. As long as it does not violate Gui Yue's rules, I will definitely agree." Gui Yue's rule is: if the item made by the person who comes here to present a treasure is collected by Gui Yue, then Gui Yue will do something for that person. But that thing must not be a heinous act.

"We want the Valley Master to make five thousand of these improved crossbows for us."

"What will you use them for?" Yu Mu asked indifferently.

"Crossbows are of course used for fighting." I replied with a smile.

"Young Master, have you forgotten the rules of Guiyue? Guiyue's actions cannot be anything that violates heaven and reason." Yu Mu raised her eyes, her gaze passing through us to the vast sky outside.

"Haha! Now, who is violating heaven and reason? The world was originally a peaceful and prosperous age, but it has been thrown into chaos because of the mistakes of your Guiyue sect. Feng Yu's weapon is a mechanical weapon of Guiyue. Moreover, he is proficient in poisons. If it is not stopped, future chaos is certain."

Despite Feng Yu's involvement in worldly troubles, the current Valley Master of Guiyue Valley, Yu Mu, has not come out to 'cleanse the sect.' I was completely baffled by this phenomenon.

I asked my father, and he replied that Guiyue Valley's rule has always been that they will not enter the world to participate in wars unless there is chaos in the world.

Bah! What kind of damn rule is that?!

Rules are dead, but people are alive, yet they don't understand the way of flexibility!

"You want to use this thing as a weapon on the battlefield to deal with Feng Yu?" He raised his eyes and looked at me quietly.

"Yes! I want to use it on the battlefield. Guiyue has a rule: it doesn't emerge unless there's chaos, so we can only save ourselves."

"Save ourselves?" Yu Mu repeated softly with a smile. That made sense.

"If we wait for you, Valley Master, to go out and save people, then the world will be in chaos, and the people will begin to suffer. To avoid the people suffering again, we can only save ourselves now." I said righteously.

"To save the people? That's certainly not a heinous crime. I grant your request." He raised his eyes, his gaze compassionate, his slender fingers gently smoothing his sky-blue sleeves, his demeanor graceful and unique.

I was invigorated. I thought I would have to use a lot of persuasion, but he agreed so easily.

"However, I have one more request." He then slowly added.

My heart sank. Indeed, nothing in this world is so easy. I said gently, "Valley Master, please speak."

"We can help you manufacture them, but once the war is over, you must return all those weapons to Ghost Yue Valley." His deep, pleasant voice echoed softly in the spacious hall.

"I agree to that." I readily agreed; after all, these weapons would be useless to me once the war was over.

"Also, you cannot manufacture this kind of weapon again." He added, lowering his gaze.

"Oh? Does that mean that such weapons can no longer appear among the common people?"

"Yes." He raised his eyes and responded calmly.

From now on, the crossbow would belong exclusively to Ghost Yue? One could glimpse the depth of Yu Mu's character from this. But this was for the best. Originally, I didn't want to manufacture the crossbow, after all, it was too bloody. But for the sake of my family on the battlefield, I had to manufacture it.

"I agree to that—"

"Young Master, please think carefully before you answer." Gu Chen whispered in my ear.

I waved my hand and replied, "If this weapon were to be passed down and used by ambitious people, it would be a disaster for the people. It's better to keep it hidden in Ghost Leap Valley and use it when the time is right."

Then I turned to look at Yu Mu and said, "Valley Master, I agree."

Seeing my agreement, Yu Mu slightly curled her lips and then called out, "Someone come here."

"Valley Master." A boy in blue stood outside the main hall. In front of the tall building, his small figure was like a black dot.

"Go and fetch pen and ink."

"Yes." The boy turned and left.

After a while, the boy came back with pen, ink, paper and inkstone.

"Then, young master, write down what you agree to on it." Yu Mu said.

"Wait, what will happen if I can't do it?" I felt uneasy and thought it best to ask more clearly.

"If you can't do it, then you will pay with your life." Yu Mu replied bloodthirstily.

"W-Isn't this too serious?" I was terrified, my face turning pale. "What if it's for some unavoidable reason?"

A gust of wind swept through the hall, his robes fluttering, making him appear ethereal. "That depends on the reason, and then we'll handle it accordingly."

"Yes, I understand." I picked up my pen, took a deep breath, and boldly wrote down what I had promised.

After finishing, I put down the pen and looked up at Yu Mu. "I've written down what I promised, so please write down what you promised me as well, Valley Master."

"Gui Yue never goes back on his word," Yu Mu said calmly.

"Hmph!" Han Yi sneered. "My young master never goes back on his word either! Since my young master has written it down, to be fair, please write it down as well, Valley Master."

Yu Mu was silent for a moment, then gracefully stood up, slowly walked to the round table, picked up his pen, and wrote down what he had promised me below what I had written.

“Valley Master, please write one on mine as well.” I took out the silk cloth in my hand and laid it flat on the round table.

“Two copies?” He frowned and murmured.

“Of course, there should be two copies of the contract, one for you and one for me.” I smiled.

He raised his eyes slightly, looked at me seriously, then picked up his brush again and wrote down what he had promised on my white silk, finally signing his name—Yu Mu.

I carefully folded the white silk and put it into the small pocket I had made in my sleeve. “How long will it take you to make five thousand crossbows?”

“One month.”

“So fast?” I was so shocked I almost choked. Even with machine production, it wouldn’t be this fast. “Won’t there be any quality problems?”

“The products made by Ghost Leap Valley are beyond question.” He said coldly.

“My apologies.” I smiled and bowed. Since he personally promised there wouldn’t be any quality problems, then ‘fast’ wasn’t a bad thing for me.

"

Han Yi, what exactly does Ghost Leap Valley do for a living? With so many people living such luxurious lives, where do they get the money to enjoy themselves if they don't make money from business?" For the past month, I've gotten along quite well with the dashing and always-smiling Han Yi. Gu Chen is too composed; we have fewer things in common.

Suddenly, the light dimmed, and I reflexively looked up at him. Sunlight streamed onto his face, making it glow pink and radiant. His watery eyes were right in front of me. He suddenly smiled, his eyes sparkling like stars. "The Ghost Leap Sect has always been renowned for its mastery of mechanical arts; of course, they make a living by manufacturing weapons."

"Oh." I blinked. Even my servants are ridiculously handsome. Is it really true that ancient times were full of beautiful men? I subtly took a step back, casually breaking the silence with a topic, "How's the crossbow bolt I asked for coming along?"

"Don't worry, young master, once Guiyue's crossbow is ready, I guarantee the bolts will be ready too," Gu Chen's voice came from behind me.

Gu Chen's sudden voice startled me, and I quickly nodded, replying, "Yes! Very good."

☆☆

Chapter 024 Voluntary Slave

Yu Mu was indeed true to her word; a month later, she had the weapons I wanted manufactured.

However, should I directly transport these weapons to my father?

If I give these weapons directly to my father, then no matter the pretext, my father's reputation will only increase further. While I'll be helping him, I'll also increase the blame for his 'overshadowing of his master'.

Han Yi lifted her robe and sat down on the stool next to me, softly asking, "Miss, what are you thinking about?"

“Just call me Young Master. I’m dressed as a man now, and even my voice is male. Don’t you find it awkward to call me Miss?” I’m not only sallow-skinned now, but also dressed as a man.

“Ahem!” Han Yi coughed lightly, his fist to his lips. “Yes, Young Master! Then… what were you thinking about so intently just now? You didn’t even notice me, a grown man, coming here?”

I glanced at him. When we first met, I thought he was very composed, but after nearly two months, I realized he wasn’t the type to stay still.

“I was thinking about whether I should give these things directly to Father…” And I don’t want to go back to the capital right now. I want to stay and help Father and Chang Kongyu.

“Miss, haven’t your weapons been made? If not the Prime Minister, who are you going to give them to?” Han Yi asked, puzzled.

“I want to go to the battlefield myself.” I put my middle finger to my lips and made my decision.

“Miss, no! The battlefield is too dangerous. You should go back to the capital.” Gu Chen objected sharply.

“Gu Chen, remember this—I am the master, and you are the servant! My orders are not to be disobeyed.” I turned and pressured him.

“Miss, we promised the Prime Minister we would escort you back to the capital.” Gu Chen added.

“So you only recognize Father in your hearts, and have never considered me your ‘master’!” I slammed my hand on the table, using reverse psychology. “Fine, then escort me back to the capital. Once we arrive, your mission will be complete, and you will have no right to tell me what to do.”

“Miss, we have never disrespected you as our master.” Han Yi’s tone was sharp, unlike that of a servant. “Don’t misinterpret our meaning.”

I patted my chest. “Han Yi, I was just saying it casually. Why are you reacting so strongly?” It was as if I had taken the wrong medicine.

“I hope Miss won’t make such jokes next time.” Gu Chen’s handsome face was also cold.

"Hey! Hey! I was just saying it casually, I didn't expect you to take it so seriously!"

"Miss, actually, we can go to the military camp with you without the Prime Minister's knowledge, but you must promise us one thing."

"What thing?" For some reason, I felt that Han Yi and Gu Chen were very excited today.

"After this matter, Miss, we want to stay by your side forever." Han Yi stared at me steadily.

"Stay by my side forever?" I was a little embarrassed. "You are my father's people."

Han Yi chuckled. "Miss seems to have misunderstood. We are not your father's subordinates."

"What?!" I couldn't quite process this information. "If we are not my father's subordinates, why would we work for him?"

"We only owe Prime Minister Baili a favor and promised to do three things for him. Escorting you back to the capital and keeping quiet is the third thing."

I said angrily, "Does the Baili family have no one else to escort us?" I suddenly felt like I was being mocked. If we are not my father's people, why did we say 'Miss' just now? "We've never treated you as anything less than our master." ?! That's too much! Is it fun to tease me?

Han Yi sighed, rubbing his forehead. "Miss, if we weren't acquainted, I would have really misunderstood that you were looking down on us." He knew she was angry, so he used this tactic to divert her attention.

"I... I didn't look down on you! I just don't understand why Father did this. Logically speaking, with so many servants in my household, there's no need for two outsiders to escort me." Han Yi's accusation was too much.

Han Yi smiled; she had indeed fallen for his trick.

"Hehe, that's the brilliance of Prime Minister Baili." Han Yi laughed. "Prime Minister Baili has many servants, but Chang Kongyu also has many spies. Of course, what he's most concerned about is the Emperor's spies. If your father used Baili family servants to escort you, the Emperor would inevitably find out."

"Hmm, I understand." I sighed. Father is indeed Father; how could my little cleverness possibly fathom his great wisdom?

"Since you're not Father's servants, you're free. Why would you want to become my servants?" This is utterly ridiculous!

"That's none of your business. Just answer 'yes' or 'no.'"

I shook my head. "I have plenty of servants." Although I didn't force them to be servants, it still felt strange to have others as my servants. Although I've lived in ancient times for over a decade, the cultural education I received in my previous life is deeply ingrained in my mind, and I'll never forget it.

"You can go by yourself, but don't forget, you're a woman. In the military camp, without someone to look after you, it'll be easy to be exposed." Han Yi smiled. "So, you should just agree."

"Han Yi, you are you. Don't drag Gu Chen into this." I didn't believe someone as composed as Gu Chen would be as crazy as Han Yi, wanting to be someone's servant.

I propped my chin up and looked at Han Yi, puzzled. "I've never seen anyone so eager to be someone's servant."

"Han Yi's meaning is my meaning." I'd never seen Gu Chen so anxious and unsteady before.

"You're all acting strangely today. Who would beg someone to be their servant!" I rolled my eyes in annoyance. "Alright, stop changing the subject. If you're not my servants, then why have you always called me 'Miss'?" Are they deliberately trying to make me mistakenly believe they're my servants?! How infuriating!

"To make Miss think we're Prime Minister Baili's subordinates, so that Miss will 'more easily' believe us, and then we'll 'more easily' accomplish our mission," Han Yi replied.

A breeze stirred in the courtyard, scattering petals everywhere. The gentle wind swept up the petals, leaving us covered in fallen leaves and fragments.

I lazily bent down and brushed away the lone leaves and petals from the hem of my clothes. "Fine, fine, if you want to be my servants, then go ahead. I have plenty of servants anyway, two more won't make a difference, and two less won't make a difference either." I figured these two were just joking, so I didn't take their desire to be my servants to heart. Even if they were truly out of their minds, they wouldn't willingly become a woman's servants... If such a thing really happened, it would be a huge joke.

"Miss, the Emperor will be coming to the military camp in a few days. Why don't you use these weapons to get the Emperor to value you?" Han Yi said.

"The Emperor is coming to the border? Is this news reliable?" My eyes suddenly lit up.

"Yes." Gu Chen nodded.

"If that's the case, it'll be easy. I'll just become the Emperor's advisor." I smiled, slapping the table.

"Do you think being the Emperor's advisor is so easy? Besides, even if you become the Emperor's advisor, you might not necessarily gain the Emperor's trust." Gu Chen said with his eyes closed.

“Yes, without the emperor’s trust, you won’t be valued by him.” I deflated like a punctured balloon, slumping onto the stone table. Those weapons were merely stepping stones to getting close to the emperor; gaining his favor required luck and skill.

Suddenly, I raised my head and shouted sharply, “What exactly are your identities?” They could even find out the emperor’s arrival at the border so clearly; these two must be, definitely, absolutely not simple characters.

“This… Miss, you don’t need to worry about it. Just know that we can help you.” Han Yi smiled.

I lowered my head. My father trusted them enough to escort me back to the capital, which meant these two were trustworthy. I could distrust them, but I trusted my father. “I’ll trust you for now.”

☆☆

Chapter 025 A Gathering of Fortune

“Are you sure the emperor will take that route?” I asked again for confirmation.

"Yes," Gu Chen replied.

"Han Yi is quite eloquent..." I gave him a positive answer first, then changed the subject, "but Han Yi doesn't give off a mysterious vibe, so Gu Chen should go and communicate with the Emperor face-to-face. Remember to do as I say. Understand?" The crossbow is very powerful, and Xiahou Xiao is a wise ruler, so once this crossbow appears in front of him, it will definitely attract his attention.

"You must cooperate perfectly, understand?" I emphasized again.

"Yes! Yes! Yes! We understand, Miss! You've said it many times already, we've remembered." Han Yi sighed, rubbing his forehead. Could Miss please stop being so long-winded?

"You think I'm long-winded?!" I tapped his head. "This operation can only succeed, failure is not an option, understand?!" "

Understood." Han Yi touched his high nose bridge. Being ordered around by her, he didn't feel annoyed at all; instead, he felt a faint sweetness flowing through his heart?! How did he become so addicted to being a lackey in the first place?

"Well, it's about time. You may go." I waved my hand, exuding an air of authority. Han Yi

then

had his men capture several wild boars and ambush them nearby. When the emperor was just the right distance away, he opened the animal box and released the boars.

Gu Chen, standing about a hundred miles away from the boars, pulled the trigger, releasing the taut bowstring and firing a crossbow bolt.

He fired ten arrows in quick succession, and in an instant, the boars were all dead, not far from Xiahou Xiao's horse.

Xiahou Xiao was stunned. His guards quickly surrounded him, drawing their swords.

At this moment, Gu Chen, carrying the crossbow, gracefully approached the emperor from afar.

Seeing this, Xiahou Xiao waved his hand, and the guards slowly dispersed.

This man was extraordinary; he had managed to hit the boars from such a distance, killing them with a single arrow. Most astonishingly, he hadn't stopped firing arrows even for a moment! It seemed like they were all fired in quick succession in an instant.

Seeing Gu Chen approach, Xiahou Xiao said, "Warrior, what incredible strength!"

Gu Chen smiled and said, "It's not that I have superhuman strength, but this crossbow in my hand is extraordinary."

"Oh?" Xiahou Xiao raised an eyebrow, his gaze shifting to the bow-like object slung over Gu Chen's left shoulder. "Are you referring to that thing on your left shoulder, warrior? Although I know countless weapons, I've never seen one like this before."

"Haha! Of course you haven't seen it. This was recently made by my young master."

"Your young master?" Xiahou Xiao murmured, observing this man's extraordinary bearing. He wondered what kind of remarkable person his master was.

"May I borrow it for a moment?" Xiahou Xiao smiled lazily, though it was a 'question,' his tone was that of a statement.

Gu Chen feigned surprise, then opened the quiver, calmly loaded several arrows, and then handed the crossbow to Xiahou Xiao.

Xiahou Xiao held the crossbow in his hand for a few seconds, and without Gu Chen showing him how to use it, he instinctively pulled the trigger, firing several arrows in succession at a tree.

He dismounted, approached, and pulled out the arrows, only to find that each one had penetrated deep into the wood.

This bow was incredibly powerful, capable of piercing even wood. If it could be used on the battlefield, it would be a great boon to our army.

"Has your master passed on the method of making this crossbow?" he murmured.

"No, I'm the first person to use this crossbow," Gu Chen smiled.

That's good. If such a weapon were to spread and fall into enemy hands, it would be disastrous.

Xiahou Xiao returned the crossbow to Gu Chen. "Could you, brave warrior, lead me to see your master?"

"My master isn't someone anyone can see." With that, Gu Chen snorted coldly and turned to leave.

Xiahou Xiao smiled faintly, gave a signal, and his guards immediately surrounded Gu Chen.

"How dare you! Who is the Emperor forbidden to see?" one of the guards shouted.

"Your Majesty..." Gu Chen feigned surprise, then threw his head back and laughed loudly, "Your Majesty? Hmph, the Emperor is in the palace. How can you and I see him as we please?"

Xiahou Xiao gestured again, and a guard immediately took out a gold token from his robes—the waist token of a palace guard.

"A palace guard? You really are the Emperor!" Gu Chen feigned surprise again, immediately kneeling down, "This humble subject Gu Chen greets Your Majesty! Long live the Emperor!"

"Rise!" Xiahou Xiao waved his sleeve lightly, and Gu Chen stood up.

"Why aren't you leading the way?" a guard shouted.

"Yes. This way, Your Majesty." Gu Chen bowed elegantly and led the way.

**

The wind whistled past, making my purple robe flutter and dance, then shatter into purple flowers in the fierce wind. I sat alone in front of the thatched hut, elbows resting on the table, leisurely sipping tea, like a hermit.

Gu Chen strode to my side and reported in my ear, "Master, the Emperor has arrived."

I feigned surprise and quickly stood up from the stool, lifting the hem of my purple robe and kneeling in the direction of Xiahou Xiao. "This humble subject, Bai Shu, greets Your Majesty! Long live the Emperor!"

"Please rise, young master." Xiahou Xiao dismounted and personally helped me to my feet.

"Just now in the woods, I saw your attendant use this bow to kill several piranhas in succession. Its power is indeed astonishing. To be able to make such a bow at such a young age is truly remarkable."

"Your Majesty flatters me. This is merely a small trinket." I bowed humbly.

Xiahou Xiao smiled and asked, "Now that the winds and rains are in turmoil, are you willing to follow me to the battlefield and serve?"

"A man should risk his life for his country; it would be my honor to serve. However, I have a request!"

The young man's voice was as cool and refreshing as a summer stream, soothing to the ear.

"Speak," Xiahou Xiao said softly.

"When you join the army, I want to wear a purple gauze hat."

"Why?" Xiahou raised his eyebrows slightly, puzzled.

"Because my appearance is too gentle, it's difficult to win the hearts of the soldiers. Only by concealing my face can I gain their respect." This was the best way I could think of to avoid my father and Chang Kongyu.

"You don't need to worry about that," Xiahou Xiao smiled. "Prime Minister Baili Qingxiao is a well-known handsome man."

"Prime Minister, your appearance is handsome, but it's a masculine beauty. My appearance, however, has a touch of femininity," I replied slowly.

"As you wish." The fact that this young man could create such a weapon shows his extraordinary talent. Talented people are often eccentric; if he doesn't want to show himself, then so be it.

☆☆

Sorry, because of time constraints, I accumulated too much at once. I originally intended to send it multiple times, but splitting it out was too troublesome, so I've crammed it all together.

Chapter 026 Amidst the Flames of War

I opened the cabin window. The clouds on the horizon were dyed red by the setting sun, and the river rippled with the afterglow of the sunset. I couldn't help but take a deep breath, then slowly turned and sat down at the round table.

"Oh! Miss, you said you were coming to the military camp, so this is where you're enjoying yourself." A teasing voice came from the window.

I jumped up in surprise and turned around to see Han Yi sitting casually on the windowsill, his left hand draped lazily over his bent left leg, looking dashing and debonair. Gu Chen stood in front of him, quietly watching me, his eyes and brows exuding a calm and composed demeanor.

I was slightly taken aback. Indeed, I had been at the military camp for over three months, and I had watched helplessly as the soldiers succumbed to the poison of the wind and rain, suffering visibly dysentery without uttering a single complaint.

"You've come! Come, have some tea." In the afterglow of the setting sun, beads of sweat glistened on their faces; it seemed they had come straight here.

"Yes, six months is more than enough time for us to send you, young lady, back to the capital and settle you in." Han Yi jumped down from the windowsill and went straight to the table, sitting down in a chair and slowly sipping his tea.

It had taken them almost three months to accompany me to Guiyue to manufacture weapons, and then another three months to hide. By the time I saw them today, six months had passed.

"How will you explain this to my father?" I handed the tea in my hand to Gu Chen again.

"Of course, we'll tell the truth." Han Yi glared at me, clearly implying I was stupid.

"Tell the truth? Say you came to the border with me?" I was taken aback.

"We said we came to the border with our master." Gu Chen took a sip of tea and added.

"Did you originally have a master?" I asked strangely.

"No one in the world knows whether we have a master or not." Gu Chen replied quietly.

I lowered my eyes and remained silent. The whole world? What a boastful tone. Just who are Gu Chen and Han Yi?

"Miss, you still haven't answered why I'm here? Weren't you going to the military camp?" Han Yi asked.

"This is the military camp." I smiled faintly and poured myself a cup of tea.

"Miss, I'm asking a serious question." Han Yi wailed.

"I'm answering a serious question too." I glanced at him and took a small sip of tea.

"Miss—"

Han Yi was about to shout again when Gu Chen stopped him. "Let Miss finish."

I smiled approvingly at Gu Chen, lowered my eyes, put down my teacup, and slowly raised my eyes. "I'm waiting for the right moment."

I rested my elbow on the edge of the table, my gaze drifting to the setting sun outside the cabin. "Time is precious on the battlefield, but if I were to propose my strategy as soon as I arrived at the camp, I fear I wouldn't be valued, and might even incur the emperor's cold shoulder."

"Miss, what exactly is the strategy you're proposing?" Han Yi asked, his handsome eyes wide with curiosity.

"Abandon the city," I replied firmly.

"Abandon the city? Miss, are you crazy? Why abandon a perfectly good city?" Historically, only defeated armies abandon cities.

I turned my gaze back from the window, quietly watching them, and sighed softly. "Even you all say I'm crazy. Imagine what they would think of me if I proposed it as soon as I arrived at the camp?" So now I'm waiting for trust. Only when I gain Xiahou Xiao's trust can my plan be implemented.

“Miss, your strategy is brilliant and we trust your tactics. However, we don't understand why you don't allow the soldiers to use crossbows on the battlefield right now.” According to internal reports, you persuaded the Emperor to allow the soldiers to train secretly, and the crossbows haven't been used in the past three months.

“Don't forget that Feng Yu is also a disciple of Gui Yue, and his manufacturing skills are top-notch. If we use them now, the enemy will surely use them too. At that time, not only will my efforts be in vain, but it will also bring annihilation to our army. Therefore, the crossbows must be used only when the enemy is wiped out.” A single strike is enough to eliminate any

future trouble. Gu Chen's expression changed slightly. After Gui Yue's improvements, the crossbow could shoot a hundred meters and penetrate armor, its power was astonishing. If it fell into enemy hands, coupled with Feng Yu's all-pervasive poison, the consequences would be unimaginable. "Miss's thinking is thoughtful."

"However, didn't Miss's offering of five thousand crossbows arouse the Emperor's suspicion? And how did Miss explain why you manufactured so many crossbows?" Gu Chen's usually composed face showed a hint of curiosity. Wasn't she afraid the Emperor would think she had ulterior motives?

I blinked and said, "I directly told the Emperor that these crossbows were manufactured by the Ghost Yue Sect, and that I only drew a diagram. I also honestly told him about my agreement with the Ghost Yue Lord. Finally, I honestly told him that I originally intended to offer these crossbows to the military camp. This established a glorious image of patriotism and passion in the Emperor's mind." A win-win situation.

Han Yi and Gu Chen were stunned on the spot, not expecting Miss's solution to be so 'simple'.

Seeing the shock in their eyes, I knew they couldn't believe that someone as 'resourceful' as me could explain it in such a simple way. I lowered my head in shame. Actually, I was just an ordinary girl. An accidental time travel gave me this 'invention' that was ahead of its time. To put it nicely, it was borrowing the wisdom of the ancients; to put it bluntly, it was plagiarizing the wisdom of the ancients. " I'm so ashamed, so ashamed~~

" Han Yi chuckled teasingly.

Suddenly, I looked up and gave Han Yi a sharp flick on the forehead. "Time is of the essence. Since you're here, secretly investigate the fishermen and ask them about the weather here, especially on the river at this time of year." The victory or defeat in war is inextricably linked to timing, location, and the people. Although I've been observing for a while, I still need to delve deeper.

"Miss said the reason for abandoning the city is—" Gu Chen suddenly realized.

Han Yi frowned for a moment, then her eyes lit up as if she'd also suddenly understood.

These two are incredibly intelligent and meticulous; with just a little clue, they knew my purpose in abandoning the city.

I secretly regretted my carelessness. If they were spies sent by Xuan Yuan, then things would be terrible.

Seeing the change in my expression, the perceptive Gu Chen immediately sensed it, "Miss doesn't trust us?"

I wasn't annoyed at being seen through. I slightly lifted my eyelids and smiled, "Military secrets are crucial to maintain. Once leaked, countless lives will be lost." I made it clear to them that I didn't quite trust them yet; after all, it was hard to trust two people I'd only known for three months.

"Miss!" Han Yi's eyes were filled with sorrow. Gu Chen lowered his eyes.

"Alright, I'm tired. You may leave." I sighed softly. Even though my father had entrusted them with escorting me back to the capital, and his trust in them was no less than that of his personal guards, this was a matter of life and death for millions of soldiers, and I still had to be cautious.

They leaped out of the window as gracefully as they had come.

I stood by the window, watching their departing figures. I had to admit they were skilled; they moved freely across the wide river.

**

"What are you looking at?" Xiahou Xiao's voice sounded behind me.

I turned sharply to look at him, immediately trying to kneel and bow. He strode over and placed his hands on my elbows. "Minister Bai, no need for such formalities."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," I nodded.

"What were you looking at just now, Minister Bai?" he asked again.

"Gu Chen and Han Yi just finished their business and came to report to me," I replied respectfully.

Xiahou Xiao chuckled, "Their skills are quite impressive, being able to move so freely on this river."

"Your Majesty flatters me; it's merely the bravery of a common man." I hadn't forgotten that they were now my 'subordinates,' so protecting them in front of the Emperor was what I, as their 'master,' should do.

He smiled and said, "Minister Bai, accompany me for a walk."

"Yes," I replied respectfully.

**

The large boat drifted leisurely on the Yu River, the evening breeze as gentle as water.

He stood with his hands behind his back, bathed in the afterglow of the setting sun, the fiery light calmly outlining his sharply defined, handsome features.

I gazed at his face, my thoughts drifting. I had been in the army for over three months, yet I had not offered a single strategy for the war, and the Emperor had never probed or questioned me about it. I could never fathom what lay hidden behind his calm facade. Such profound thoughts—no wonder even my father was constantly wary.

"Minister Bai?" He smiled, a hint of pleasure in his eyes as he looked back at the boy who was staring at him in a daze.

I was startled. Staring directly at the emperor was a grave taboo. "Your Majesty, please forgive me!"

He turned his head, seemingly unperturbed, and smiled. "Minister Bai seems to really enjoy boating."

I smiled and replied, "I believe the scenery on the water is unmatched on land. Especially at sunset, the view of half the river shimmering green and half crimson is breathtakingly beautiful."

Xiahou Xiao turned his gaze and froze. This young man wasn't exceptionally handsome, but his face was delicate, his neck slender, and his dark eyes clear and bright. In the afterglow of the setting sun, even the lines of his jaw and sideburns seemed exquisitely drawn, as if outlined with fine lines. His beauty wasn't breathtaking, but rather androgynous.

This charming young man made him suddenly realize why so many emperors and powerful ministers throughout history had disregarded the infamy that would follow them and insisted on keeping male favorites. It turns out that men really can be captivating, not because of their physical beauty, but because of a certain charm or aura that makes them unforgettable.

Xiahou Xiao's dazed gaze was so direct that I couldn't possibly miss it. I subtly coughed twice, making a fist to my mouth, and he finally snapped out of it.

"The evening breeze is cool, and Minister Bai is always frail. Let's go into the cabin."

"It is I who have spoiled Your Majesty's enjoyment." I lowered my head, feigning shame.

"Haha, enjoying the scenery is only truly enjoyable with you, Minister Bai." Xiahou Xiao smiled back nonchalantly.

But my heart sank, and my palms became sticky with cold sweat. From his dazed look to his words, everything had filled me with trepidation.

I had spent every day with the Emperor simply to cultivate a good relationship with him. —If I had a good relationship with the Emperor, then when I proposed the 'abandon the city' strategy in the future, I would have a powerful backer.

However, it seems we can't delay any longer, or something bad will happen sooner or later.

"Your Majesty, our battle with Xuanyuan has lasted for nearly a year. Because Feng Yu's poison is like a ghost, we can only defend, and we are powerless to attack. If this continues, this war will probably drag on for several years or even decades, and then the country's strength will surely be dragged down by the war." I said, kneeling.

Xiahou Xiao quickly helped me up. "Shu'er, your body is weak, you don't need to kneel so easily."

My body trembled, frightened by the emperor's intimate way of addressing me.

"Shu'er, what's wrong?" He noticed my trembling and asked with concern.

"The evening breeze is a little cool, and my body is not strong enough." I smiled faintly and made excuses.

"Then hurry up and go into the cabin." The emperor's hand was on my back, and I avoided it without making a sound.

**

After entering the cabin, I was 'graciously' allowed by Xiahou Xiao to lie down on the bed, and he sat down in a chair next to the round table.

"Does Minister Bai have a plan to repel the enemy?" After all, he was a powerful and shrewd ruler, and he quickly regained his imperial dignity.

"Your Majesty, Bai Shu has a plan, but I don't know if it's feasible," I said slowly.

"Oh? What brilliant plan do you have, Minister? Tell me quickly!" Xiahou Xiao's eyes lit up, as if he had been waiting for this moment for a long time.

"I have been thinking recently that the soldiers of Xuanyuan Kingdom, having lived in the extremely cold northern lands for many years, have developed strong physiques from the ice and snow. If we were to fight on land, our army would be at a slight disadvantage in terms of physical strength. Coupled with Feng Yu's tactical leadership and the use of poison, even with geniuses like Prime Minister Baili and Air Strategist Changkong in our Yangyu Kingdom, we would still inevitably be at a disadvantage. However, if we were to fight on water, the situation would be completely different." I paused here.

"Go on," Xiahou Xiao's voice remained as calm as before, but I saw a faint glint in his eyes.

"As you command. My Yangyu Kingdom has many rivers, and most of its soldiers are skilled swimmers. Xuanyuan Kingdom, on the other hand, has few rivers but many glaciers, and most of its soldiers fear water. Therefore, if the battlefield is moved to the water, the Xuanyuan army will be like snakes in winter, forced to hibernate." I finished speaking, glancing up slightly to secretly observe his expression.

Xiahou Xiao stared intently at a certain spot in the cabin, his gaze deep and unfathomable. After a long while, he slowly spoke, "Minister Bai, do you want me to move the battlefield to the water?" Xiahou Xiao was quick-witted; he naturally understood my words.

"This is merely my suggestion," I said, lowering my head. After all, abandoning the three states of Yiwu, Fangming, and Xiajia on the west bank 'easily' required considerable courage.

"You've been staying here so often for this strategy?" He looked up at me, his eyes gleaming.

"Yes," I replied respectfully, bowing my head.

Xiahou Xiao paused for a moment before slowly saying, "Tonight is the night of the full moon, and viewing the full moon on the water has a unique charm. The generals have worked hard for over a year, and I would like to invite you all to gather on the ship. What do you say, Bai Aiqing?"

He agreed? He adopted my plan? A surge of excitement rose within me.

"Your Majesty, I would be honored .

I will personally prepare the feast—" Xiahou Xiao stopped me from rising, smiling, "You don't need to prepare these yourself; just have a servant do it. You should rest well so you'll be refreshed tonight."

"Your Majesty, I obey." I bowed.

This ship was a large vessel; the deck alone could accommodate over ninety people. The generals who could 'admire' the moon with the Emperor were at most a dozen or so; the ship was more than enough for them.

"Remember to wear an extra layer tonight and don't catch a cold."

His parting words made my heart sink slightly

…

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