[Wuxia] The Carefree Journey of the Tang Dynasty (Book) - 31-33

page views:1 Publication date:2023-05-13

Chapter 143 Not Working Together

Yuan Yueze recalled Dugu Feng's comments about Dou Jiande and secretly praised him.

Just his humane actions were captivating, subtly bridging the gap between superiors and subordinates—one of the most skillful ways to win hearts.

Listening to Dou Jiande's introduction, Yuan Yueze nodded and bowed to each of them. Besides the imposing General Zhang Qingshi, the refined and cultured Imperial Secretary Liu Bin, and the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy Ling Jing, two others particularly caught his attention: Xu Yuanlang and the newly surrendered Meng Haigong.

Xu Yuanlang was about thirty years old, tall and robust, with a composed demeanor. His gaze always held a questioning and scrutinizing quality; he was a man of courage, resourcefulness, and wisdom. Meng Haigong was about the same age as Dou Jiande, with a rugged face and a serious expression, rarely smiling. Yuan Yueze sensed that he was the kind of person who was cold on the outside but warm on the inside, not easily making friends, but once he was, he would go to great lengths for them without hesitation.

Dou Jiande raised his wine cup and chuckled, "Let's toast Brother Yuan!"

After everyone drank, a cold glint flashed in Dou Jiande's hawk-like eyes, revealing unfathomable skill. He coldly asked, "We received news that since Brother Yuan left Shanhaiguan, Gui Sha has not appeared again. Has he been secretly eliminated by Brother Yuan?"

Recalling Xiao Ge's tragic life due to Liu Yu's cruelty, Yuan Yueze sighed inwardly and shook his head, making up a story: "I didn't encounter him, but even if he's not dead, he shouldn't dare to do evil again. Your Majesty is also a martial artist and should know the purpose of his taking the placenta. Although evil martial arts are insidious, they ultimately harm both the practitioner and others." When

a person dies, it's like a lamp going out. He didn't intend to mention Xiao Ge's matter to anyone else.

Dou Jiande solemnly said, "Li Yuan publicly claims that Brother Yuan used despicable means to assassinate his trusted minister Pei Ji, and has dispatched troops beyond the pass. This man is truly despicable, insisting on finding a plausible reason to leave the pass."

Yuan Yueze sneered inwardly, but outwardly smiled and said, "The world will judge. However, I think Your Majesty is right. Since leaving the pass is a foregone conclusion, why bother with some pretext?"

Dou Jiande stared intently at his ambiguous answer for a long time before nodding. The atmosphere at the banquet became lively again, filled with flattery and polite words, which made Yuan Yueze much more relaxed.

After several rounds of drinks, someone suddenly came to report that there was urgent news to be presented to the King of Xia.

Dou Jiande looked displeased and was about to speak when Liu Bin preemptively said, "The situation in the world is currently turbulent; Your Majesty may benefit from hearing it."

Yuan Yueze glanced at him and noticed that Liu Heita's head was slightly lowered, his gaze fixed on the wine cup in front of him, so he couldn't see his expression. He chuckled inwardly: Here it comes!

Sure enough, Dou Jiande coughed and said to Yuan Yueze, who was pretending to get up and retreat, "Brother Yuan, there's no need to leave. There's nothing I need to say behind your back."

He then ordered the person at the door to come in.

Yuan Yueze smiled and sat down. The person who entered was of ordinary appearance and short stature, but his eyes were particularly sharp, and he walked with light steps, indicating that he was quite skilled in light-body techniques.

After entering, the person knelt down and said, "We have received the latest news that Li Yuanji, the Prince of Qi of the Tang Dynasty, has not returned to Guanzhong, but has secretly gone to Youzhou and Yuyang. In addition, news has also come from Luoyang."

Dou Jiande and his men all showed disdain at the news about Li Yuanji. When they heard the last sentence, Dou Jiande glanced at Yuan Yueze, whose expression remained unchanged, and told the person to continue.

The man continued, "After Li Shimin returned to Tongguan, he divided his troops into seven routes, each with about 20,000 men. The first two routes, led by Huang Junhan, the governor of Huaizhou, and Zhang Yecha, a fierce general stationed in Jiyuan, joined forces and headed south, and would soon reach Heyang; the third route, commanded by Liu Dewei, surrounded Henan from the east of Taihang; the fourth route, led by Wang Junkuo, the Duke of Shanggu, was stationed on the north bank of Luokou, watching with predatory intent; the fifth route, led by General Shi Wanbao, advanced along the Yi River to Yiyang; the sixth route, led by Li Jing, departed from Lushi and had already captured Changshui; the last route, personally led by Li Shimin, went up the Yellow River and was stationed in Yuan County."

Upon hearing this, everyone's eyes flashed with horror, but Yuan Yueze remained calm.

Dou Jiande, slightly embarrassed, waved away the messenger and said, "Brother Yuan, you are truly a hero. To be honest, even I was somewhat bewildered after hearing this."

Yuan Yueze smiled and said, "I would like to hear the details."

Dou Jiande calmly continued, "Currently, Brother Yuan's westernmost line of Luoyang army is only Xin'an, Fuchang, and Luhun. As long as Huang Junhan and Zhang Yecha successfully cross Meng County, they will pose a great threat to Huiluo City. The third, fourth, and fifth armies can not only cut off the connection between Luoyang and Xiangyang, but also target Luokou. Huiluo and Luokou are two major granaries supplying grain to Luoyang. If anything happens to these two cities, it will have a significant impact on..." The supply of provisions to Yuan Shimin's troops at the front lines has a crucial impact on the outcome of the battle. With Li Shimin personally overseeing the front lines, the struggle for control of the Yellow River will become the most critical factor influencing the course of the war. Currently, Yuan Shimin controls the area south of the Yellow River, while the area north is shared between the Tang Dynasty and our Great Xia. Given the strength of the Tang navy, if they can bring the Yellow River upstream of Hulao Pass under their control, the river will be at their disposal. This is like a game of chess; for the Tang, Yuan Shimin's Luoyang army is a large dragon, and a direct confrontation would result in heavy casualties for either side. Therefore, Li Shimin has adopted a clever strategy of encirclement and interception. The strategy is to cut off every possible escape route for Brother Yuan, then gradually eliminate them until only one eye remains in Luoyang, rendering it unable to survive. Li Shimin possesses unpredictable methods, both calm and ruthless, neither arrogant in victory nor discouraged in defeat; Brother Yuan, please do not be careless. If Dou Jiande has said anything disrespectful, please forgive him.”

His analysis was extremely reasonable. Through his discerning mind, Yuan Yueze could sense his confident and self-assured demeanor, as if he could place the world at his feet. He laughed heartily and said, “Your Majesty is too kind. Since Li Shimin has mobilized, we will naturally not passively endure attacks. The military defenses of Luoyang are entirely within my grasp.” He wasn't worried.

His mind raced: Dou Jiande kept emphasizing Li Shimin's terror, likely trying to lead him to believe that the Tang dynasty was his greatest enemy. This would naturally diminish the perceived threat of the Xia dynasty to Luoyang. Dou Jiande had no good intentions; he mentioned Luokou but not Hulao Pass, clearly trying to cover up his true intentions. Even in dire circumstances, as long as Hulao Pass remained intact, Luokou could continuously transport its stored grain to Luoyang via the Luo River, ensuring Luoyang's food supply and supporting the frontline army. They could also purchase grain from cities downstream of the Yellow River. Hulao Pass was something Dou Jiande desperately needed, so he couldn't possibly mention it. Of course, he constantly reminded Yuan Yueze that Li Shimin had other objectives. Since Song Jingang was decisively defeated by Li Shimin at Baibi, and the Turkic Khan Jieli Jinlang's army was defeated at Longquan, the Turks' plan to invade the Central Plains had been severely hampered. The long-standing tripartite balance of power—Tang in Guanzhong, Xia in Hebei, and the Luoyang army and the Young Marshal's army in the Central Plains—was no longer sustainable. The greater the Tang dynasty's power, the more disadvantageous it became for those outside the Great Wall. Li Shimin, leading an army of 200,000, was now advancing with overwhelming force, dividing his forces into multiple routes to gradually erode the cities surrounding Luoyang. The day he breached Luoyang would be the day he marched north to attack Xia. Dou Jiande naturally hoped for a mutually destructive outcome.

Ling Jing, the chief strategist of the Xia army and the Grand Master of the Imperial Academy, with keen insight, remarked, "Young Master Yuan seems to harbor deep suspicion towards our Great Xia, which is understandable."

He then looked at Dou Jiande, and after Dou Jiande nodded, continued, "Although our Great Xia captured Liyang, it was out of necessity. If we were to attack Hulao Pass next, a direct clash would not only be unpredictable, allowing the Tang to gain an advantage, but it would also damage our relationship with you, Young Master and Commander-in-Chief. Therefore, we plan to avoid the strong and attack the weak. While the Tang army is besieging the city, our Great Xia will cross the river to capture Huai and Heyang, stationing important generals there and establishing supply lines." "Once we have a firm foothold, we will lead our troops to raise the banners and beat the drums, cross the Taihang Mountains, enter Shangdang, Linfen, and Jinzhou, making a show of force before taking action, pacifying the region through proclamations, gradually approaching Hukou, slightly alarming Pujin, and seizing the land east of the Yellow River. This will surely bring three benefits: first, we will enter uninhabited territory, ensuring the army's complete safety; second, we will expand our territory and gain troops, strengthening our Great Xia; and third, it will shock Guanzhong, reducing the pressure on Luoyang. Do you agree, my lord?"

Xu Yuanlang continued, "Li Yuanji's trip to the Northeast is very likely to pave the way for the Li Tang to persuade the Youzhou local tyrant Luo Yi and Prince Gao of Yan to surrender. We still need to divide our forces to attack Zhuojun and Yuyang to prevent the Li Tang from gaining control of the two major northeastern powers first."

Yuan Yueze was speechless. The other party was eloquent, every word logical and well-founded, and their smiles conveyed genuine sincerity, leaving him momentarily at a loss for words.

Dou Jiande, who had been staring intently at Yuan Yueze, flashed a look of both excitement and disappointment in his eyes. He said, "I've heard that Brother Yuan isn't very skilled in military strategy. Is that true?"

Yuan Yueze smiled wryly, "Although I've read many military books, I'm self-aware enough to know that experience comes from firsthand combat. Only a fool would think that reading countless military texts makes one an invincible commander."

Dou Jiande slapped the table in praise, "Brother Yuan's straightforwardness is admirable! Let's continue drinking!"

The group at the table stopped discussing the situation or the war.

After the drinks, Dou Jiande, along with Liu Heita and Zhang Qingshi, who hadn't spoken at the dinner table, escorted Yuan Yueze out of the palace. The three of them didn't exchange a single word the entire way. The palace guards and other soldiers frequently glanced at Yuan Yueze, all showing expressions of reverence.

After leaving the palace, the three slowed their pace. As dusk approached, the streets were nearly deserted.

Liu Heita suddenly whispered, "Brother Yuan, what is your opinion of Dou Jiande?"

The fact that he addressed him by his given name indicated a rift between them. Yuan Yueze glanced at him in surprise, then looked away. Zhang Qingshi remained expressionless, his eyes fixed straight ahead.

Yuan Yueze pondered for a moment, then said, "At best, he can only be a regional hegemon. Even if he were to become emperor, he would certainly not be a good one."

Neither Liu nor Zhang showed any surprise at his disrespectful words. Liu Heita sighed, "When I joined his ranks, he said he admired me, not only because of my intelligence and courage, but more importantly because we both came from humble backgrounds. His family was very poor when he was young, so he despised corrupt officials and self-important aristocratic families. Only those from the common people can understand their hardships. Throughout history, whose military prowess and achievements can compare to Qin Shi Huang, Ying Zheng? Yet, the Second Emperor of Qin..." "Death is precisely the harm of ignoring the people's plight. On the contrary, Liu Bang, the founder of the Han Dynasty, rose from humble beginnings to establish the Han imperial dynasty. The reigns of Emperors Wen and Jing, and the restoration under Emperor Guangwu, marked the golden age of China, unprecedented in history. Therefore, those with ambition do not want to let the likes of Li Yuan succeed."

He paused, then smiled bitterly, "He also said this to the young marshal."

Zhang Qingshi seemed lost in memories, speaking in a lower voice to himself, "Your Majesty was born in a rural village in Wucheng, Shandong. He joined Gao Shida of Qinghe in the uprising at Gaojibo. Gao Shida thought highly of him and entrusted him with commanding the rebel army. With seven thousand poorly equipped rebels, he defeated the Sui general Guo Xuan's more than ten thousand elite troops, establishing his reputation. Later..." Gao Shida was killed by Yang Yichen, a famous general of the Sui Dynasty. The King fled in panic with only a hundred or so men. Afterwards, through hard work, he not only subdued Xu Yuanlang and Meng Haigong, but also captured Liyang, all thanks to his 'benevolence and righteousness.' He treated the surrendered Sui generals with utmost sincerity and trust, while allowing those who did not wish to remain to come and go freely. He distributed the spoils of each siege equally among his soldiers, while he himself lived a simple life, sharing both life and death with his troops.”

Yuan Yueze said in a deep voice, “Judging from your words, Dou Jiande is no longer the same person he once was?”

Liu Heita said, “These past two years have been too smooth for him. No matter how strong the opponent, he has defeated them all, even outstanding figures in the Tang army.” Even Li Shiji was defeated by him. This made him feel that the throne was within his grasp, and his true nature was revealed without restraint.

Then his expression turned indignant, and he said, "He made me guard Leshou because he was afraid that I would defect to Brother Yuan or the Young Marshal. Otherwise, he should have made me go to the front line with him. He also tried to sow discord between me and Qing Shi. If it weren't for Qing Shi's close personal relationship with me and his feigned defection to him to monitor me, I'm afraid I would have been furious!"

Yuan Yueze showed a look of realization. Repeated success can indeed change a person. Dou Jiande was the best example. No wonder Liu Heita, who was known for his loyalty and righteousness, couldn't control his anger and leaked the secret.

Liu Heita continued, "I wonder if Brother Yuan noticed his unusual expression during the meal? Originally, he was persuaded by several of us to discuss cooperating with Brother Yuan to defeat the Li Tang dynasty. Perhaps your performance disappointed him, so he didn't mention it at all. Alas!"

Yuan Yueze was slightly taken aback and said, "Brother Liu, do you perhaps think that the opportunity for the unification of the Central Plains has not yet arrived?"

Liu Heita and Zhang Qingshi were stunned. The latter said, "It seems we don't have the profound wisdom of the young master. His Majesty has analyzed it in detail, saying that the young master's side has many hidden dangers, and given time, internal strife is inevitable."

Yuan Yueze pondered and said, "First of all, southerners are at a disadvantage in fighting in the north, therefore since ancient times... " "Since ancient times, only northerners have conquered the south; no southerner has ever conquered the north. Furthermore, after losing the 'Heavenly Blade,' the Song army isn't actually that formidable. Secondly, the division of responsibilities between the Luoyang army and the Young Marshal's army is unclear, leading to instability and a long-standing threat. Thirdly, while I, Yuan Yueze, am cunning and secretly orchestrate everything, I am not an omnipotent deity; I will inevitably make mistakes. If the enemy seizes the opportunity, the fall of Luoyang wouldn't be surprising. As for anything else, I can't think of anything else for now."

Zhang Qingshi stood there for a long time before finally revealing a wry smile, realizing that Yuan Yueze's guess wasn't far off from Dou Jiande's assessment.

Yuan Yueze shook his head and chuckled, offering no explanation.

Dou Jiande was perhaps truly blinded by successive victories, his thoughts too subjective.

At this moment, the three were almost at Zhai Jiao's residence.

Liu Heita, perhaps disheartened and contemplating giving up, said dejectedly, "I really want to drop everything and leave, go to the Peerless Kingdom in the Western Regions, marry a wife, have children, and live a simple life!"

Yuan Yueze frowned and asked, "The Peerless Kingdom?"

Liu Heita readily replied, "Five years ago, I met the 'Recluse' Ning Daoqi. He read my face and said that my bridge of the nose was too low and my eyebrows had a fierce look, so I probably wouldn't live past forty-one. He suggested that I enjoy the days before I turn forty-one."

Then, a look of longing appeared in his eyes as he said, "The Peerless Kingdom is what he mentioned to me back then..." "It was established by Huo Qubing, the great general of the Western Han Dynasty, who was exiled to a remote region. It is the most harmonious and peaceful paradise he has seen in his many years of traveling between the Central Plains and the borderlands. He suggested that I could live there."

Yuan Yueze vaguely grasped a clue, his eyes flashing with light, and said seriously, "Ning Daoqi's ability to judge people is indeed extraordinary, but if I said that Brother Liu was born with the face of great fortune and nobility, would you not believe me?"

Liu Heita stared at him for a long time before saying, "It is said that Brother Yuan and Empress Zhu are already half of the immortals of the earth. How could I not believe what you say..." He

then sighed, hesitating to speak.

Yuan Yueze immediately raised his hand to interrupt him, saying, "Brother Liu, there is no need to be troubled. Don't say anything. Just remember that preserving your life is the most important thing. Everything else can wait."

A look of gratitude flashed in Liu Heita's eyes. He patted his shoulder twice forcefully, and turned to leave with Zhang Qingshi.

When Yuan Yueze returned to Susu's room, the maid who seemed to have a close relationship with Susu was chatting intimately with her, while Ren Jun chimed in with jokes. The atmosphere was warm and friendly. The maid was startled when Yuan Yueze entered without knocking and immediately stood up to bow. Susu pulled her down to sit and introduced her to Yuan Yueze, saying, "This is my best friend from Wagang Village, Chuchu. Husband, you should know her name."

Ren Jun busied himself making tea.

Yuan Yueze nodded in sudden realization and smiled, "Of course I know, but I feel like I've met Miss Chuchu somewhere before."

Chuchu lowered her head shyly, while Susu gave him a reproachful look, as if to say, "Husband, your seduction techniques are terrible!"

Yuan Yueze gave a wronged look and scratched his head, saying, "I'm telling the truth."

Just as Susu was about to speak, Ren Jun rushed in and exclaimed, "Big Brother never lies!"

Chuchu raised her slightly flushed face and said softly, "A few years ago, Young Master came to the Great Dragon Head Mansion to look for Sister Su..."

Yuan Yueze immediately

exclaimed, "Oh!" and said, "I remember now, I grabbed a girl back then, it was you, wasn't it!"

Chuchu nodded slightly, then lowered her head again.

Su Su excitedly grabbed her plump forearm and said, "So Chu Chu is still my great benefactor!"

Then she turned to Yuan Yueze and smiled sweetly, saying, "I plan to talk to Miss tomorrow morning about taking Chu Chu back to Luoyang. She's suffered a lot these past years, so she can enjoy the good life with us from now on."

Chu Chu's body trembled, and she looked at her sisters, who had already achieved great success, with tears in her eyes.

Ren Jun served the three of them fragrant tea and interjected, "And my little brother, how about we try to get a job under Sister-in-law Luo Yan?"

Yuan Yueze nodded and said, "How Su Su convinces your Miss is key. She wouldn't easily let go of her two most capable subordinates, would she?"

Su Su gave him a reassuring look and said, "Everyone knows the relationship between Miss and us. Who would dare to come looking for trouble?"

Ren Jun added, "Miss just said that our deliverymen found out some confidential information: in February, Crown Prince Li Jiancheng of the Tang Dynasty secretly visited Xiao Xian. I wonder if there's some kind of conspiracy?"

Yuan Yueze... After pondering for a moment, Ze recounted his meeting with Dou Jiande, saying, "Dou Jiande must have received this news as well, otherwise he wouldn't have remained silent about our influence on the Yangtze River. You must know that the sailors of the Song Clan, the Giant Kun Gang, the Dongming Faction, and the Great River Alliance are all elites, and they are all on our side. Although the Li Tang sailors are excellent, they have not yet been able to completely overwhelm us."

Chu Chu, drawn in, interjected, "Unless the Li Tang and Xiao Xian join forces, supported by the natural defenses of Sichuan and Chongqing, and launch an attack at the right time, they can suppress us... Oh! I've spoken out of turn."

She noticed Yuan Yueze staring intently at her and lowered her head in embarrassment. Yuan Yueze sighed, "Miss Chuchu is quick-witted, how could you say she's being nosy? We'll discuss this further when we return to Luoyang."

Susu said, "I heard from the eldest young lady that there's been a sensational event in the martial arts world recently: the Evil King Shi Zhixuan will have a decisive battle with Wan'er at Phoenix Mountain in July to determine who will be the supreme leader of the Demonic Sect."

Yuan Yueze recalled Liu Heita's hesitant manner and vaguely sensed that Dou Jiande might take advantage of this momentous occasion to march south. So he nodded and said, "They should have a battle. I thought it would break out on the first day of the fourth month!"

Susu stretched lazily and gave Chuchu a mischievous smile, "I'm going to see the eldest young lady now. Why don't you accompany my husband in my place?"

Chuchu was startled and couldn't break free from Susu's hand holding her under the table. She blushed with embarrassment and didn't know what to do.

Ren Jun chuckled as he left, saying, "The number one swordsman of the Northern Frontier is going to practice martial arts, so I won't disturb you and Sister Chu Chu any longer."

Chu Chu was even more flustered, wishing she could disappear into a hole in the ground. Su

Su, who had just stood up, laughed so hard she almost fell over, panting, "This kid returned to Leshou and immediately became a great hero, even being given the title of 'Number One Swordsman of the Northern Frontier'."

Yuan Yueze thought to himself, "My dear aunt, you're too bold! So openly pimping for your husband?"

Su Su's clear, bell-like laughter had already disappeared outside the door. Although Chu Chu had her head down, she could still feel Yuan Yueze's gaze on her. She wanted to stand up, but her whole body was weak, her face flushed red with embarrassment, and her shoulders trembled slightly.

In fact, she had always envied Su Su. A single encounter could change a person's life, and Su Su was one of the most typical examples. The Chu Chu of the past was bold and open, but after experiencing more things, her mindset began to change, becoming mature and steady. It was precisely because of this that she was able to gain Zhai Jiao's favor. Given Yuan Yueze's outstanding qualities and the innate attraction between men and women, it's not surprising that Chu Chu fell for him.

Yuan Yueze stood up, and under the influence of a mysterious spiritual force, Chu Chu's body seemed to obey her will, immediately following him to her feet. The moment she straightened up, she realized her legs were weak, and with a soft moan, she fell forward. Just then, Yuan Yueze reached out and grabbed her shoulder. Chu Chu's breathing quickened immediately, and she softly collapsed into his arms, her body burning hot.

The flesh was full and smooth to the touch, and Yuan Yueze's heart fluttered. He moved closer to her flushed, glistening ear and said with deep affection, "I am ashamed to receive such kindness from Chu Chu. Your emotions are too volatile; go to sleep first!"

Chu Chu was overwhelmed with shyness and was carried to the bed in a daze. Only after Yuan Yueze covered her with the blanket did she become more awake, feeling a warmth she had never experienced before. She glanced at Yuan Yueze shyly and whispered, "Thank you, young master!"

She lay on the bed, exuding a languid and alluring charm after relaxing. The beautiful lines of her body under the thin blanket undulated like the graceful curves of a mountain, incredibly tempting. Yuan Yueze leaned down and kissed her forehead, smiling slightly, "After Chu Chu's emotions have calmed down, we can talk about other things."

His tone emphasized "other things," and Chu Chu understood perfectly. Her face flushed as she watched him leave gracefully, her heart filled with surprise and joy—a feeling she couldn't quite describe.

Everything felt unreal, like a dream, and she couldn't believe it herself. She drifted off to sleep.

That day, Yuan Yueze and his family finally arrived in Shanggu County.

Shanggu County was famous for its hot springs, and since it wasn't truly summer in the north, soaking in the hot springs was an excellent way to relax. However, in this chaotic world, few people had the time or inclination to enjoy a hot spring bath.

Because he was with Chu Chu, Yuan Yueze couldn't join the women in their revelry.

He prepared the meal outside, and the women enjoyed themselves for a couple of hours before returning, laughing and chatting.

Looking at their alluring, unadorned beauty, Yuan Yueze almost wanted to have a fight with them on the spot. Fortunately, Su Su pulled him aside and told him that Chu Chu was still in the hot spring, waiting for him to steal a kiss.

Yuan Yueze was overjoyed, thinking, "My dear Su Su, it's such a waste that you're not running a brothel as a madam!"

Upon hearing this, Su Su immediately threw a playful tantrum, her small fists pounding at him. Yuan Yueze chuckled and got up to walk towards the natural hot spring near the mountain.

Passing the small valley where the group had rested, the view suddenly opened up. Countless peaks stood facing each other, vegetation growing vertically according to the terrain, and a spring flowed from a hole in a purplish-black granite rock in another mountain, its steam rising in the air. Less than two hundred steps further, nestled among old pines, lay another large warm pool, about half a zhang wide and over ten feet deep, like a fairyland in the mountains, beautiful and enchanting.

The rising steam enveloped the entire pool in a misty haze, making it seem like a paradise on earth.

Chu Chu stood alone in the hot spring, revealing half of her fair, white skin above her chest. The steam made her pretty face flushed red, making her incredibly alluring. She absentmindedly splashed water, washing her smooth, pink skin.

"Have you been resting well these past few days, Chu Chu?"

Yuan Yueze's voice suddenly reached her ears. Chu Chu was startled but didn't move. She lowered her head slightly and said shyly, "Thank you for your concern, young master. I'm fine."

Just as she finished speaking, she suddenly felt someone splashing water on her back. She instinctively turned her head and saw that it was Yuan Yueze, who was completely naked.

Chu Chu was extremely embarrassed. In a moment of panic, she turned her delicate body away, leaving her back to Yuan Yueze. Her

full, exquisite curves and firm, fragrant skin exuded a captivating youthful charm. Yuan Yueze felt slightly dizzy.

After a pause, he placed his large hand on her smooth, fragrant shoulder and said softly, "Chu Chu, marry me!"

Actually, their relationship was quite obvious; they just hadn't crossed that final line. While bathing, Su Su had specifically instructed Chu Chu to stay here. Chu Chu had been filled with mixed feelings of shyness and joy, her heart pounding like a deer. She wasn't stupid; of course, she knew Su Su's purpose. Hearing Yuan Yueze's words with her own ears, she was deeply moved. She slowly turned her delicate body, blushing so much that her forehead almost hid in her chest, and nodded slightly.

Yuan Yueze gently kissed her soft, beautiful forehead. Chu Chu's beautiful eyes were tightly closed, her flawless body trembling. Standing in the pool, she let her beloved do as he pleased. Her wet hair was even more black and shiny, naturally and gracefully draped over her chest and back. That amazing allure made Yuan Yueze's heart flutter. He pulled her into his arms and kissed her fragrant lips passionately.

Stealing a glimpse of his masculine physique, Chu Chu's heart melted, and she shyly returned the kiss.

Hot springs naturally aroused desire, and the two, already pledged their hearts to each other, needed no further words.

Yuan Yueze's throbbing member pressed against Chu Chu's smooth abdomen. Chu Chu's body flushed, and she reached out to embrace Yuan Yueze's strong neck, offering her tongue with a soft moan. Yuan Yueze's large hand gradually slid down, finally encircling her slender waist with one hand and grasping her firm, fragrant buttocks with the other, squeezing and kneading them.

Chu Chu let out a soft moan, her ivory-smooth, delicate body becoming burning hot as she pressed herself tightly against him.

After a passionate kiss, Chu Chu, blushing and closing her eyes, realized that Yuan Yueze had lifted her from the hot spring and placed her on a soft mat on the shore.

Her fair neck and jade-like arms, her soft breasts and jade-like legs were revealed before him: she stood gracefully, her waist slender as a snake, her breasts high and firm, her buttocks plump and round, her skin fair and smooth. Between her jade thighs

, her mons pubis was prominent and round, standing tall and proud, covered by a large patch of dark pubic hair, moist and wispy, like silk and velvet, extending to her flat abdomen, exceptionally alluring and mysterious. Gazing at her beautiful face, her cheeks flushed with a blush of rouge, she was even more stunning and captivating. Her waist swayed slightly with shyness, causing her chest to rise and fall, her breasts trembling gently. Yuan Yueze couldn't resist reaching out to gently caress her breasts. Chu Chu's breathing became heavy, and she couldn't help but let out a captivating moan.

Yuan Yueze bent down and kissed her sweet cherry lips. Chu Chu wrapped her arms around him, offering her small, fragrant tongue in a passionate embrace. The two sucked at each other's lips, their tongues intertwining, sucking each other's saliva. Yuan Yueze's hands didn't stop there; they moved to Chu Chu's small, hill-like mons pubis. Chu Chu trembled more violently, her desire surging, and her moans grew louder.

His large hands forcefully parted her tightly closed legs, and Yuan Yueze then went to her wet, furry little garden. The two petals, slippery with her juices, trembled slightly. After a few caresses from Yuan Yueze, Chu Chu was ecstatic, her face flushed as if she were drunk, her body weak and numb, her mind becoming hazy. As Yuan Yueze gently rubbed her erect clitoris with his seemingly magical fingers, glistening with her clear nectar, and teased her adorable arched waist at the entrance of her virginity, her delicate brows furrowed slightly, making it impossible to tell whether she was experiencing pleasure or pain.

"Mmm...mmm..."

Yuan Yueze's fingertips had already probed into Chu Chu's tender, moist, and overflowing virgin cave, while his fiery member ground against her erect clitoris. The stimulation and pleasure were more intense than ever before, and Chu Chu's delicate nose exhaled fragrant breaths as she moaned. At the same time, her snow-white, round buttocks involuntarily thrust forward, as if beckoning Yuan Yueze to knock on the door and enter.

With ample foreplay, Yuan Yueze saw the glistening juices in her honeypot, so he bent down to kiss and stimulate her engorged and hardened nipples, while his long spear rubbed up and down along the pink crevice of her flesh a couple of times. With a sudden thrust of his hips, half of his spear disappeared into her incredibly lubricated virgin territory.

Virgin blood dripped onto the soft mat, and Chu Chu let out a scream like that of someone dying. Her slender arms clung tightly to Yuan Yueze, her waist arched, her face paled, her cherry lips trembled, and her body convulsed.

Yuan Yueze gently lifted her waist to ease her pain, then used various techniques on her. This virgin Chu Chu couldn't withstand his skillful hands. After a while, having been taught much about this by Su Su, she quickly calmed down. The pain remained, but there was a new kind of fullness and satisfaction she had never experienced before, just as Su Su had described.

Chu Chu's snow-white, delicate body pressed tightly against his chest, her arms and hands tightly embracing Yuan Yueze's neck and head, enjoying the intoxicating sensation of being close to her beloved. Then, her slender waist twisted slightly, as if seeking more pleasure through friction, or perhaps urging and responding to Yuan Yueze's thrusting movements.

Yuan Yueze took her beautiful little mouth into his mouth, his long spear slowly advancing into her tight, narrow flower passage. There, countless folds twitched and rolled, squeezing the edges of the spearhead. Waves of tingling, itchy sensations traveled from the tip to the shaft, then rapidly spread throughout Yuan Yueze's entire body. Coupled with the constant friction of Chu Chu's hard nipples against her chest, he felt an unparalleled

sense of pleasure and satisfaction. Finally, the spear was fully inserted into her fiery, honeyed flower passage. The deeper, tighter the passage, the hotter it became. The softest part of her flower core was particularly wondrous. While most women's flower cores resembled a child's mouth, Chu Chu's had many slightly protruding buds around it. This wasn't a special structure, but rather a natural result of the finer folds within her passage, forming this unique structure around the deepest part of her flower core. As the hot, throbbing flower core sucked and writhed, the surrounding buds tightly enveloped the sensitive spearhead, wanting to massage it, making Yuan Yueze feel as if his soul had soared into the sky.

The soft, jade-like tip of his hot spear was fixed on her, causing Chu Chu to tremble and writhe violently. Her snowy buttocks twisted and arched upwards, and she gasped for breath

. A wanton lust appeared on her beautiful face, and clear, lustful fluid gushed out, wetting their genitals from where they were joined, and then dripping onto the soft mat. Chu Chu's pain had almost completely subsided; she only wanted Yuan Yueze to move quickly to relieve the rising desire and passion within her. Yuan Yueze lay on her naked, flushed body, kissing and caressing every sensitive spot. His hard, massive member slowly thrust in and out, beginning to cultivate the tender treasure between Chu Chu's jade thighs.

Waves of pleasure surged, and Chu Chu cried out and writhed in ecstasy. She forgot everything; her soul seemed to have left her body, wandering freely in the boundless universe.

Yuan Yueze took one of her firm, beautiful breasts into his mouth, sucking and biting at the pink cherry-like tip. His thrusting became increasingly rapid, his long spear moving in and out of her tight, warm, and tender flower passage like a piston, drawing out streams of glistening, lustful fluid with each stroke. With each withdrawal, he roughly parted the two glistening petals, covered in her fluids, bringing out a few tender buds from the entrance of her honeypot. When he thrust all the way in, the pink petals were pulled tightly together towards the opening, with even the base of the petals closest to the entrance being drawn slightly inside.

"Slap, slap!"

The two bodies collided repeatedly, the speed increasing, producing a series of crisp impacts. These sounds, mixed with the increasingly loud and clear moans of lust, and set against the backdrop of the rising steam from the hot spring, created a beautiful scene.

The massive, scorching spear and the exquisitely tight flower path rubbed together rapidly, generating intense pleasure. Their breaths were heavy, their bodies rising and falling in rhythm, as if they wouldn't be satisfied until they were completely inside each other. Yuan Yueze held the initiative, his fighting prowess astonishing, his movements incredibly fast. Chu Chu, panting heavily from the thrusting, was drenched in sweat, her hips heaving violently, her

delicate body trembling, her head shaking as she cried out, "My lord... ah... mmm... so hot..." Despite Yuan Yueze's relentless thrusting, Chu Chu was still not satisfied, panting as she repeatedly offered her small, round, snowy buttocks in response. Her clitoris and inner walls continuously squeezed and massaged the shaft, she was completely lost in the wondrous pleasure and river of desire Yuan Yueze brought her. If it weren't for her virginity and Yuan Yueze's experience, it would be hard to imagine she was still a virgin.

This was the passionate and unrestrained Chu Chu, the most authentic Chu Chu.

A quarter of an hour later, Chu Chu suddenly furrowed her long, delicate eyebrows, letting out a high-pitched moan. Her crimson body and alluring vulva convulsed simultaneously, reaching climax.

Drowned in the copious stream of vaginal fluid gushing from her beautiful, soft flower, Yuan Yueze held her tightly in his arms, thrusting his penis deep inside her. The tip of his penis ground against her contracting, spasming vulva and the surrounding clitoris. With a shudder, he ejaculated, his semen mingling with her vaginal fluid, slowly flowing down between their intertwined lower bodies, sliding over their genitals

and perineum, dripping onto the pale white sheet, further ruining its already disheveled state. Chu Chu gasped for breath, collapsing limply onto Yuan Yueze's body, her soft vulva and tender flesh still rhythmically sucking and nibbling at his throbbing, enormous penis. Although exhausted and drained by the pleasure of intercourse, she felt an unprecedented sense of happiness and tenderly rubbed her head against Yuan Yueze's shoulder.

Yuan Yueze kissed away every drop of sweat from her still-rosy face, stroked her damp hair, and laughed, "Chuchu, you're amazing!"

Chuchu herself didn't remember how she had performed just now, only vaguely guessing that in her dazed state, she must have revealed her truest self. Of course, she knew her own personality best, and upon hearing his teasing tone, she understood. She wriggled her body coquettishly, but dared not speak. Heaven knows what else he would say to tease her. Chuchu hadn't known him as long as Susu, so she still couldn't completely let go of herself.

Yuan Yueze knew that they still needed time to get to know each other, and he also knew that if Chuchu opened her heart, she would probably be even more open than Susu, because it was her innate nature. So he didn't press her further. After she had savored the afterglow of her wonderful climax, he personally dressed her and carried her back to enjoy fine wine and delicacies.

Chuchu was shy but incredibly happy, and bashfully rested her head against his chest.

Seven days later, Yuan Yueze and Zhu Yuyan and her daughter arrived at Hulao Pass.

Hulao Pass is the most important pass east of Luoyang. Its name originates from King Mu of the Western Zhou Dynasty, who imprisoned a tiger there. The story goes that "When the emperor was about to arrive, seven elite warriors, including Gao Benrong, captured a tiger and presented it to the emperor, who then imprisoned it in Dongguo, hence the name Hulao."

The pass is bordered by the Yellow River to the north and Mount Song to the south, with its rugged terrain forming a natural barrier. It possesses the formidable strength of "one man can hold the pass against ten thousand," making it a strategic location fought over by military strategists throughout history. During the late Warring States period, the six eastern states stationed troops here to resist the powerful Qin state. The famous "Three Heroes Battle Lü Bu" of the Three Kingdoms period took place before this pass.

The Luoyang military network guarding the pass stretched for more than ten miles outside. When Yuan Yueze and his companions arrived at the imposing and solemn pass, Dugu Feng and Kou Zhong had already personally led a small detachment of Luoyang soldiers to greet them about a mile away.

After exchanging pleasantries, the group, surrounded by Luoyang soldiers, walked together towards Hulao Pass.

Gazing at the towering, sturdy city walls, thirty zhang high, and the well-trained, heavily armed garrison, along with the giant crossbows and catapults powered by steam engines, Zhu Yuyan and Shan Meixian exchanged a glance, simultaneously realizing how vulnerable Longquan's five-zhang walls seemed in comparison.

Yuan Yueze asked curiously, "Why is Xiao Zhong here? Where's Ziling?"

---

Chapter 144 The Sword Heart Is Hard to Guard

Kou Zhong said regretfully, "To prevent a surprise attack on Hulao by the Li Tang or Dou Jiande, my brother and I, after discussing it, stationed 20,000 troops in the three cities of Bianzhou, Zhongmu, and Chenliu. Ziling's cultivation is getting higher and higher, and he is becoming more and more detached, so he stayed in Pengcheng. I only arrived at Hulao yesterday to discuss with the clan leader how to deal with the enemy."

Dugu Feng sincerely praised, "Looking at the present era, any outstanding commander, even someone like Li Mi, Li Shimin, or Du Fuwei,..." There are always patterns to be found in warfare. For example, Li Mi loved to use deception and ambush; Li Shimin used both soft and hard tactics, was adept at grasping the situation, and used defense as offense; Du Fuwei's Jianghuai army came and went like the wind, sustaining itself through war. But Xiao Zhong's warfare methods are completely unpredictable, like a wild horse galloping freely, leaving no way to fathom them

. He combines the strengths of many schools, yet comes up with his own unique strategies, his audacity is astonishing and amazing. The name 'Kou Zhong' will surely be remembered for eternity!" Kou Zhong's old face flushed slightly, and he quickly waved his hand modestly.

As they spoke, the group arrived at the foot of Hulao Pass. The guards on and in front of the city walls, upon seeing Yuan Yueze and his daughter Zhu Yuyan, simultaneously raised their arms and shouted, a burst of cheers that resounded through the sky, the cheers rising and falling like a tide, the atmosphere as hot and boiling as fire.

Yuan Yueze and his two companions returned the soldiers' adoration with waves and smiles, and the five of them were then respectfully invited into the general's mansion.

After sitting down, the five began to recount their experiences.

Luoyang remained largely unchanged, except for its steadily increasing population and ongoing expansion. The same situation was occurring in Liangdu and Pengcheng, with the combined population of the three cities approaching 1.5 million. Kou Zhong had pacified Jiangnan, leaving only Xiao Xian, with over 500,000 troops, still holding out in Baling. Since Li Shimin's army's advance, at least twenty small- to medium-sized conflicts had erupted around Luoyang, resulting in losses on both sides. Dugu

Feng and his companion, upon hearing that Yuan Yueze had been single-handedly surrounded by over 10,000 Jinlang soldiers, and although he escaped, he was so exhausted that he vomited blood and fell unconscious, felt a chill run down their spines. This further solidified their resolve to properly train the Central Plains cavalry and eliminate these barbaric and ruthless people in the future. Upon hearing Yuan Yueze mention Dou Jiande again, a look of disdain flashed in Dugu Feng's eyes. Kou Zhong said, "He sent another letter last month, discussing who was in power between the two sides, and subtly suggesting a collaboration with the Young Marshal's army to seize the throne. Alas, he's truly relentless."

Dugu Feng slammed his fist on the table and angrily said, "Recently, there's a saying among the people: whoever gets the full support of Xiao Zhong, this master of military strategy, will have the world in their pocket. Humph! The ones spreading this rumor are either Li Shimin or Dou Jiande, clearly trying to push Xiao Zhong into the limelight to weaken and divide us."

Yuan Yueze laughed and patted Kou Zhong on the shoulder, praising, "This is absolutely no exaggeration. Xiao Zhong truly deserves it. Compared to him, I feel far inferior." Kou Zhong smiled bitterly, "Everyone says that Brother Yuan and Sister-in-law Zhu are practically immortals. If you call

this inferior, how can I have the face to live in this world!"

She sighed, "Dou Jiande was originally a good person, kind and righteous, generous and good at accepting advice. It's a pity that he was blinded by victory and became so attached to power and fame."

Shan Meixian smiled and said, "Although Dou Jiande has many merits, he is inherently suspicious and easily swayed by slander, making it difficult for him to distinguish right from wrong. For example, the general Wang Fubao, whom he executed more than a year ago, was killed simply because he was the bravest in the army and his achievements surpassed those of other generals. As a result, he aroused the jealousy of the other generals, who accused him of treason. Dou Jiande killed Wang Fubao without investigating the matter. Another example is the advisor Song Zhengben, who was killed by Dou Jiande because he gave honest advice but was misled by slander. Xiao Zhong, remember, there is never a perfect person in this world. Just as your elder brother said, he is indeed not as good as you in military matters. So it's not that Dou Jiande has changed, but that he has revealed his true colors when he no longer needs to hide his deepest thoughts."

Kou Zhong was stunned and nodded silently.

Dugu Feng asked, "Has my son-in-law ever passed through Liyang?"

Yuan Yueze shook his head and said, "We've been traveling through the wilderness the whole way, and haven't come close to any cities except Leshou."

Dugu Feng nodded and said, "The one sent by Dou Jiande to guard Liyang is Wang Cong, the former governor of Yingzhou. He was the assistant prefect of Hejian during the Sui Dynasty. When he heard that Emperor Yang had been killed, he sent an envoy to surrender. He led his officials, dressed in plain clothes and bound, to Dou Jiande. At that time, one of Dou Jiande's subordinates said, 'Cong has resisted us for a long time, killing and wounding many. He only came out of desperation. Now, please boil him alive.'" Dou Jiande considered Wang Cong a righteous man and appointed him governor of Yingzhou that very day. Upon hearing this, the counties of Hebei all vied to submit to Dou Jiande.

Yuan Yueze said thoughtfully, "Father-in-law, are you implying that this man is loyal to Dou Jiande out of gratitude, and that Dou Jiande's words to me at the Leshou banquet about first seizing Huaizhou and Heyang were all lies?"

Dugu Feng smiled and nodded. Zhu Yuyan, who hadn't spoken until now, brought up Li Jiancheng's secret visit to Xiao Xian and the duel with the Demonic Sect's Supreme.

Kou Zhong said, "We've also heard about Li Jiancheng's visit to Xiao Xian. The control of the Yangtze River is almost entirely in our hands. Since Sister-in-law Zhu mentioned these two things at the same time, I suddenly wondered if the Li Tang would send troops to the Yangtze River on the day of Sister Wan's decisive battle with Shi Xiewang? As long as we are well prepared, relying on the Li Tang's powerful navy, we could control Yiling in half a day..."

He stopped there, stood up, and paced back and forth, muttering to himself, "If that's the case, they can then go up the Grand Canal, to Dangyang and Yuan'an, my goodness! They could even take Jingling in one fell swoop, directly threatening Hannan and Feima Ranch to the north!"

Yuan Yueze and the others looked solemn. Clearly, Kou Zhong's words were not without reason: if the Li Tang wanted to conquer Luoyang, they had to cut off Xiangyang first. Only by capturing Xiangyang could they advance or retreat at will. Hannan is located southeast of Xiangyang, on the south bank of the Han River. To capture Xiangyang, Hanfu, Nanyang, and other major waterway cities north of Xiangyang, Hannan is a crucial battleground. Feima Ranch is Luoyang's strongest supply depot, with various supplies and military equipment being transported to Luoyang year after year to support its high-intensity operations. Although its walls are strong, its defenses are tight, and its equipment is complete, it won't be captured quickly. However, if besieged, it could still cause great harm to Luoyang.

Kou Zhong then asked, "Could it be that the Li Tang dynasty would actually recruit a villain like Zhu Can?"

Several people gave him approving glances.

If Kou Zhong's prediction is true, then the Li Tang dynasty will certainly not give up secretly deploying naval forces from the Wudang, Junyang, Yincheng, and Gucheng line—territory originally belonging to Zhu Can—to coordinate with the southern naval forces in an attack on Xiangyang from both above and below. In this way, Xiangyang would be in grave danger! The key to the success of this plan is obtaining Zhu Can's consent, which is why Kou Zhong made that statement earlier.

Yuan Yueze stood up and said, "My father-in-law has said that most of the conflicts will occur around Luoyang. Relatively speaking, the garrison in Xiangyang and other places will be smaller, so we must plan carefully and not overlook any detail. I'm leaving Hulao Pass to you; I'll return to Luoyang immediately."

Not long after nightfall, Yuan Yueze returned to Luoyang. After spending some time with the women, he hurriedly went to the city lord's mansion.

Ren Meimei was chatting with Zhang Chuchen when Yuan Yueze suddenly returned. She immediately rushed over. Yuan Yueze greeted them and followed them to the back of the mansion. Ren Meimei said that Shen Luoyan was holding an informal military meeting with a group of generals and strategists.

Yuan Yueze knocked and entered. The spacious room contained over thirty people. Apart from Song Shidao, Xu Xingzhi, and Ma Chang, most were unfamiliar faces. Aside from the large maps hanging on the walls, the room was almost sparsely decorated.

Shen Luoyan, dressed in a plain white outfit with dark gold trim, flashed a captivating light in her beautiful eyes and immediately greeted him. The others looked at Yuan Yueze with reverence; clearly, they already knew what he had done during his trip to the borderlands, and their stares made him feel uncomfortable. He

was led to the group by Shen Luoyan's delicate, smooth hand and introduced to them.

Yuan Yueze then realized that the unfamiliar faces were actually trusted subordinates of the generals assigned to guard the major cities surrounding Luoyang. With war potentially imminent, it was inconvenient for the commander-in-chief to leave. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, Yuan Yueze returned their greetings, and the group gathered around a large table in the center. Yuan Yueze then noticed that the room contained several tables of varying sizes, the central one being the largest. Each table had a clay model depicting the terrain of major cities in the Central Plains. A closer look at the 3D topographical map on the central table revealed its lifelike detail; the mountains, rivers, roads, and towns around Luoyang were clearly depicted, far surpassing ordinary military maps. Its exquisite detail and embossed design made it instantly recognizable.

Yuan Yueze laughed, "Was this made by Master Lu?"

Song Shidao nodded, "These models were only completed at the end of March. Master Lu's skill is unparalleled, saving a lot of explanation work."

Shen Luoyan was in high spirits, her face beaming, "Husband, you rushed here so quickly, did you make an important discovery?"

Yuan Yueze quickly relayed Kou Zhong's guess, and the room immediately fell silent, everyone waiting for Shen Luoyan's instructions.

Shen Luoyan glanced at Song Shidao, a profound smile playing on her beautiful lips, and said, "Does Li Jiancheng really think I have no one in Luoyang? How about I leave this matter to my second brother?"

Song Shidao accepted the order with a military salute.

The military conference continued, and Yuan Yueze, feeling overwhelmed, began to look at the 3D topographical maps of other cities. The name of the garrison commander was written in front of each city's map. After looking at them, he roughly understood the distribution of Luoyang's military forces.

In military affairs, Shen Luoyan reformed the previous dynasty's official system, establishing the positions of Marshal, Military Advisor, ten Grand Generals, dozens of Generals, Lieutenant Generals, and Assistant Generals. Shen Luoyan temporarily served as Marshal, nominally possessing both civil and military talents, acting as both the de facto prime minister of Luoyang and the army's military advisor.

Regarding the allocation of responsibilities among the generals, General Yang Gongqing and General Ma Changtong led 40,000 mixed troops to defend the crucial line from Xin'an to Cijian, vital to the success or failure of the Battle of Luoyang; General Zhang Zhenzhou led 25,000 mixed troops to defend the line from Shou'an to Liuquanyi; General Shan Xiongxin led 25,000 mixed troops to defend the line from Yique to Longmenshan; General Cheng Zhijie defended Jinyong; and General Dugu Feng led 20,000 troops to defend Hulao Pass. The first four were the first to surrender to Yuan Yueze and were the most trusted. Cheng Zhijie, after Li Mi's defeat, joined Shen Luoyan and was also highly valued. The relationship between Dugu Feng and Yuan Yueze is self-evident. No one doubts their abilities, for the military discipline in Luoyang values merit above all else; those with ability are promoted.

General Duan Da, the Southern Expeditionary General, guards Huiluo; General Bing Yuanzhen, the Western Expeditionary General, guards Luokou. The other two generals, General Xuan Yong and General Song Shidao, are kept by Shen Luoyan's side, to be dispatched later. Judging from Shen Luoyan's casual dispatch of Song Shidao today, it's clear this female warrior excels at planning before acting; her wisdom and ability are indeed beyond those of ordinary men.

As for other cities, Zhan Gongxian guards Yanshi; Gao Ziming guards Goushi; Wang Long guards Gongxian; Guo Shancai guards Xingyang; Wei Lu guards Guancheng; Xue Deyin guards Zhengzhou; Cui Hongdan guards Xinzheng; Meng Xiaowen guards Linru; Zhang Tong'er guards Xiangcheng; Guo Shizhu guards Lushan; Wang Deren guards Yingyang; and Yang Wang guards Nanyang. This group consisted mostly of former members of the Wagangzhai rebellion or disillusioned generals from outside the royal family who had occupied Luoyang during Wang Shichong's reign. Through the miraculous power of the "free He Shi Bi" (a legendary jade disc) in Yuan Yueze's household, they were transformed, grateful and deeply impressed by the talents of Shen Luoyan, Xu Xingzhi, and their leaders, swearing allegiance.

Qian Duguan remained the defender of Xiangyang, but he was merely a puppet; Song Lu, invited by Song Yuzhi and secretly heading north, was the true mastermind. As for the cities north of the Yellow River that originally belonged to Luoyang, they had been strategically abandoned after discussions between Shen Luoyan and Xu Xingzhi.

Most remarkably, over the past eight months, Lu Miaozi had secretly dispatched his disciples to dig a tunnel, about a mile long, for each of the major cities surrounding Luoyang. The exits were extremely well-hidden, allowing for surprise attacks and, in times of crisis, for a swift retreat to preserve strength and withstand sieges.

After the military meeting, everyone dispersed. Yuan Yueze personally cooked to reward Shen Luoyan and the other women who had worked hard in Luoyang. Only then did he remember that Dugu Feng hadn't appeared. Reminded by Wei Zhenzhen, he recalled Li Xiuning. He busied himself again, carrying a plate of food to Li Xiuning's residence in the backyard.

After knocking, without waiting for an answer, Yuan Yueze pushed open the door.

The room was clean, but there was a strong smell of medicine. Li Xiuning, sitting upright, was frighteningly thin. She wore only a thin, plain white undergarment. Her sunken eyes were red and swollen, and her face was deathly pale. She stared calmly out the window, giving off an eerie and terrifying feeling, somewhat like a ghostly figure. Dugu Feng was absentmindedly reading a story to her. Upon seeing the person enter, Dugu Feng cheered and threw down her book, rushing towards him. Li Xiuning's body trembled violently, a sliver of clarity returning to her empty eyes as she stared intently at Yuan Yueze, her expression a complex and enigmatic one that no one could decipher.

Yuan Yueze said nothing, smiling as he approached the table, set out the food, and embraced both of them, showering them with passionate kisses. Dugu Feng responded fervently, while Li Xiuning remained numb.

Dugu Feng seemed to be bursting with pent-up energy, munching away while asking questions incoherently. Yuan Yueze wiped the grease from her lips as he answered her questions one by one. Li Xiuning, held in Yuan Yueze's arms, remained motionless.

After they had eaten their fill, Dugu Feng patted her stomach contentedly and left alone.

Only Yuan Yueze and Li Xiuning remained.

Yuan Yueze's face was like that of a stone statue, devoid of any human emotion, his deep gaze fixed on Li Xiuning. Li Xiuning lowered her eyelids, silently gazing at the teacup on the table.

The room, though brightly lit, was eerily quiet, like a ghost town.

At this moment, even Yuan Yueze couldn't grasp a single thought of her inner thoughts.

The two remained silent for an unknown amount of time before a knock came at the door. Wei Zhenzhen's gentle voice entered their ears: "It's getting late, please excuse yourself, husband. I need to clean Xiuning."

Yuan Yueze chuckled, "Zhenzhen, what are you saying? Let me serve you both as you bathe!"

Li Xiuning, her head bowed, trembled almost imperceptibly. Wei Zhenzhen pushed open the door and snapped, "Get out! Someone is waiting for you at Jingnian Temple!"

Yuan Yueze reluctantly got up. When he returned to Luoyang, Shi Feixuan had already arrived at Jingnian Temple. Yuan Yueze, having run around everywhere, still hadn't been able to deliver the Five-Colored Stone to Linglong Jiao.

Jingnian Temple, one of the two great sacred sites of the Xuanmen, was located on a mountain south of Luoyang, its atmosphere solemn and serene.

This was Yuan Yueze's first time setting foot here.

Dressed in men's clothing, Shi Feixuan stood gracefully beneath the archway inscribed with "Jingnian Zen Temple" at the entrance of the Zen monastery, her slender profile facing the steps below. The soft moonlight illuminated her face, highlighting its exquisitely beautiful lines. She seemed to blend seamlessly with the night sky and stars, her robes fluttering as she gazed at the moon suspended in mid-air, ethereal and otherworldly.

Shi Feixuan slowly turned, her perfectly beautiful face serene as ever, her deep, clear gaze fixed intently on Yuan Yueze as he ascended the steps. From Yuan Yueze's perspective, her jade-like face appeared embedded in the magnificent starry sky, tranquil and serene, pure and otherworldly.

As their eyes met, Yuan Yueze arrived beside Shi Feixuan. Shi Feixuan smiled slightly and said softly, "Tomorrow, Feixuan will be returning to her sect. I heard that you have never set foot in the Zen temple, so I took the liberty of inviting you."

Yuan Yueze replied politely, and the two passed through the archway and continued climbing the long, steep stone steps to the summit, giving one the feeling of ascending to the "other shore."

After their spiritual exchange, a strange characteristic naturally arose in their minds: a fusion that was both mutual and independent. Sometimes, without saying a word, they could roughly grasp each other's thoughts. Their hearts were at peace as they slowly walked, admiring the surrounding peaks and lush forests. Large-scale pagodas and bell towers peek out from among the trees. Most of the pagodas are constructed of large bluestone blocks, with complex structures, octagonal in shape, nine stories high, and doors on all four sides. The carvings on the pagodas are exceptionally exquisite, with the arched doors adorned with dragons, tigers, Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, powerful figures, musicians, and flying apsaras—all vividly and lifelike. The spire, however, is made of iron, with eight chains leading to the eight corners of the top. The lower five levels of steps are located inside the pagoda, but from the fifth level onwards, the steps spiral along the outer eaves to the top—a rare arrangement in pagoda architecture. Especially striking are the tall, ornate iron spires, elegant and imposing, jutting out from the mountains and forests as if piercing the sky.

Yuan Yueze couldn't help but admire it. The Jingnian Zen Temple, while unconventional in every way, possessed a unique and elegant style. Although the architecture and decorations were exquisitely beautiful, they still conveyed a sense of simplicity and authenticity, like a beautiful woman in finery who, without makeup, retains her natural beauty.

Shi Feixuan, seemingly moved, looked up and sighed, "Look! How profound and beautiful the starry sky is tonight! Whenever Feixuan looks at the vast night sky, she feels that life should have no limitations. No matter how profound one's thoughts may be, compared to the mystery of the starry sky, they are but a drop in the ocean. Feixuan finally understands why you, young master, love gazing at the stars so much."

Yuan Yueze laughed loudly, "What's the point of being remembered in history, of being remembered for generations? What does a thousand years amount to compared to the universe!"

He paused, then frowned and said, "Feixuan has a conflict in her heart, why not say it?" "Want to hear it?"

Shi Feixuan's lips curled into a bitter smile as she softly said, "At the beginning of cultivation, one must make the Four Great Vows: I vow to learn all the immeasurable Dharma teachings, I vow to eliminate all afflictions, I vow to liberate all sentient beings, I vow to attain supreme Buddhahood. Alas!"

Yuan Yueze's eyes shone with an unusual light as he stared intently at Shi Feixuan, and he said in a deep voice, "Feixuan, these words come from the heart. If I'm not mistaken, you must have explained my situation to Master Liaokong, but the result disappointed you greatly."

Shi Feixuan showed no surprise and nodded gently. Yuan Yueze continued, “Prejudice arises from the combination of appearances or false information, and it easily becomes an obsession that is not acknowledged by the prejudiced person themselves. This is the root of conflict between people. It’s just that many principles in the world do not have a rigid standard. For example, you and I both find the starry sky magnificent and fascinating, but many people are disdainful. Most people in the Xuanmen sect have a serious prejudice against me, which is an indisputable fact. You don’t need to worry, I have my own solution.”

As he spoke, the stone steps ended, and the two arrived at the second mountain gate. Above the gate were the four characters "Those who enter are destined," and on either side were engraved a couplet: "The evening drum and morning bell awaken those who seek fame and fortune in the world; the chanting of scriptures and the recitation of Buddha's name call back those lost in the sea of suffering."

Looking at this ironically charged couplet, Shi Feixuan felt a moment of turmoil. Yuan Yueze's voice entered her ears again: "The formless should not cling to the mind, and the mind should not cling to the formless. Feixuan, would you mind telling me how Master Liaokong refuted you?"

Shi Feixuan remained silent for a long time before lowering her head and saying, "Regarding the internal conflicts of the Li Tang dynasty, Master Liaokong only said, 'The unification and peace of the world is not an easy matter that can be achieved overnight; the Prince of Qin was already prepared for this.'" At this moment, after passing a magnificent bronze hall, the two, led by Shi Feixuan, turned left into an ancient stone path lined with bamboo trees. The monks' quarters were nestled among the bamboo, simple and unpretentious, possessing a profound, peaceful, and tranquil atmosphere. Yuan Yueze thought to himself that Kong would probably accuse him of using evil magic to bewitch her.

Shi Feixuan, though maintaining her usual calm and composure, was completely at odds with the surrounding atmosphere. An uncontrollable storm raged within her; her still-fragile Sword Heart Clarity was now filled with unprecedented confusion. She could no longer distinguish right from wrong, and only wanted to escape this chaotic and noisy world, never to return.

The two didn't exchange another word. When the stone path reached its end, Shi Feixuan led him, turning left and right, until they reached the mountain gate, where she waved goodbye.

When he got home, Yuan Yueze first went to see Li Xiuning. She was lying in bed, and when she saw Yuan Yueze enter, a little life returned to her empty eyes. She seemed to be talking to herself as she softly said, "Xiuning poisoned you, so why did you save me?"

Her tone was unusually calm, so calm that even Yuan Yueze, who had never known fear, felt a sense of dread. This fear stemmed from Li Xiuning's self-abandonment. He could clearly sense the contradictions, resentment, bitterness, regret, and bewilderment in her heart.

Yuan Yueze said gently, "If you admit that you, Li Xiuning, genuinely wanted to harm me, I can give you a quick death immediately."

His tone and words formed a stark contrast.

Li Xiuning sat up, her breathing becoming rapid. She raised her beautiful eyes, already brimming with tears, and stared at him, a healthy blush rising to her pale face. She closed her eyes, letting two streams of tears flow down her cheeks, but her tone was unusually calm as she asked, "Do my three brothers really have to settle their feud through a family tragedy, with fratricide?"

Yuan Yueze said helplessly, "Of all the princesses of the four great clans of the old Sui Dynasty, only you, Princess Pingyang, are truly calm and insightful in the face of such matters. I will only answer you with 'The imperial family is the most ruthless,' is that enough?"

Li Xiuning's face paled in horror. Clearly, her fragile nerves couldn't accept Yuan Yueze's direct answer. Her body trembled uncontrollably, tears streaming down her face. She collapsed weakly into his arms, her red lips moving helplessly, unable to utter a sound.

Her mind went blank, devoid of thought, as if she had fallen into an abyss of no return or a nightmare from which she could never awaken.

Yuan Yueze reached out and pressed his hand against her delicate, chiseled shoulders, while his other hand caressed her long hair. He felt her flesh tremble in his arms, as if she wanted to melt into his body and even his soul. He felt boundless love, sympathy, and care. He whispered in her delicate ear, "Given the personalities of your three elder brothers and the paths they have chosen, only one of you is destined to live to the end. You should understand that very well."

Li Xiuning, her head buried in his chest, trembled violently, crying harder and harder until she was completely out of control, as if she wanted to release all the sorrow in her heart. Yuan Yueze shrugged helplessly and sighed, "A long time ago, I could have taken Xiu Ning's body for my own selfish desires, and then continued to uphold my principles and ideals, opposing the Li Tang dynasty. That way, I would have gained the most, but the one caught in the middle, torn between two conflicting options, wouldn't be you, suffering many times more pain and heartache than you are now? Although I, Yuan Yueze, am not a virtuous gentleman, I cannot do such a selfish and conscience-stricken thing. Therefore, when faced with two evils, choose the lesser. Before the world is at peace, the colder you are to me, the better."

Upon hearing this, Li Xiu Ning struggled to sit up straight, raising her swollen, red eyes to look at Yuan Yueze. She reached out her pale hand to touch his cheek, tears still streaming down her face, and said with deep gaze, "Li Xiu Ning is dead. The one sitting before you now is merely someone you saved from the underworld."

Yuan Yueze lovingly stroked her smooth face and sighed, "Princess Pingyang is dead, and the Li family will not be exterminated. Sleep well!"

Li Xiuning, who had been receiving guidance from Dugu Feng for months, showed no surprise upon hearing this and actually fell asleep.

Chapter 145 The Art of Killing

That night, Yuan Yueze and the other women naturally had another long-awaited reunion celebration, finally bringing the "battle" to a close with Wanwan's loud and sweet cry of "I'll drain you dry."

The Yin Gui Sect's headquarters had always been in Chang'an, but it moved to Luoyang last year. With Yuan Yueze returning to Luoyang, Wanwan naturally received the news immediately.

After the more resilient women had also fallen asleep, Yuan Yueze, following Shan Meixian's instructions, went out alone to visit Li Xiuning.

When Yuan Yueze tiptoed into Li Xiuning's boudoir, it was pitch black inside, with only a pair of bright eyes and faint breathing on the bed indicating to him: Li Xiuning had woken up.

Li Xiuning clearly sensed Yuan Yueze's arrival but remained silent and motionless. Yuan Yueze sat beside her, his heart aching as he examined her pale face and the fresh tear stains. He reached out and stroked her cheek, then embraced her beautiful body tightly, softly saying, "Now that Li Xiuning is dead, would you, my lady, be willing to marry me?"

Li Xiuning let out a barely audible moan, wrapping her arms around his neck with all her might, her delicate head pressed weakly against his chest, nodding several times.

Yuan Yueze gently cupped her flushed face. Li Xiuning readily lowered her head and closed her eyes, appearing utterly submissive. Her beautiful face was extremely pale; the few blushes added to her pitiful charm, but there was also an eerie quality to it.

Yuan Yueze knew this was his inner demon at work; the woman before him had lost everything, and only his love could comfort her wounded heart. So he leaned in and kissed her trembling, luscious lips. His tongue parted her red lips amidst her soft moans.

Li Xiuning responded passionately, feeling a gentle force as Yuan Yueze's lips and tongue touched hers, causing her to involuntarily pull away, allowing him to penetrate deeply and savor the warm, sweet fragrance of her mouth. Even the sensation of his nimble tongue scraping and sliding within her mouth was sweet and alluring.

Yuan Yueze was skilled, adept at multi-point stimulation, and his large hands, which gently cupped her face, were not idle either. Li Xiuning felt a sudden tightness in her body: Yuan Yueze's hands had slowly slid down her slender neck, deftly slipping inside her clothes, launching an assault on her delicate body little by little.

Although Li Xiuning was passionate and did not suppress herself, her pale hands still instinctively pressed against Yuan Yueze's strange hands. But she was clearly no match for Yuan Yueze. With a slight effort, Yuan Yueze pushed Li Xiuning away, his large hand slowly penetrating her hot skin, gradually moving towards her breasts. Under the alluring twists of Li Xiuning's body, he slowly began to ascend and descend.

While enjoying the passionate kisses between them, Li Xiuning gently shifted her body, making it easier for Yuan Yueze to caress her. She was deeply intoxicated by the captivating sensations between them: Yuan Yueze had caressed her before, but this time he aroused an unprecedented sense of pleasure. His large hand seemed to carry electricity and sparks, his touches and kneads intensifying the desire within Li Xiuning. Li Xiuning felt her breasts growing increasingly swollen and hot, her breasts seemingly becoming firmer and larger from Yuan Yueze's ministrations, the sensation of them rubbing against him as she moved even more intoxicatingly. She offered her sweet, luscious mouth and tongue in a daze, her body arching upwards as if yearning for the most intimate contact with him.

Yuan Yueze gently kissed Li Xiuning's burning hot cheek, his tongue lightly sucking at her skin. He felt the skin beneath his lips was both hot and soft, sweet and fragrant, a taste so exquisite it was intoxicating, filling him with immense pleasure. His movements gradually intensified: not only did his lips slowly kiss and suck on her fair, smooth face, sliding downwards, but his hands also began to remove her outer garments. With Li Xiuning's gentle twisting and coquettish cooperation, her snow-white shoulders and skin were gradually exposed to the air.

Li Xiuning let out a soft moan, her half-closed eyes tightly shut. Shyness was only a small part of the reason; she mainly wanted to feel more deeply and precisely. Yuan Yueze's lips and tongue, filled with boundless tenderness, slid inch by inch across her delicate skin, gradually descending from her flushed cheeks to her neck and shoulders, sometimes slowly, sometimes swiftly. Her skin seemed to respond to his touch; each touch became a sensitive spot, sending a wonderful warmth through her with every gentle touch, making Li Xiuning's heart pound and causing

her to involuntarily moan softly. Yuan Yueze's kisses were gentle yet passionate, somewhat slow, but filled with tenderness. His slowness wasn't to whet her appetite or suppress his own impulses; it was simply a fear of being too forceful, afraid that a sudden, heavy kiss would hurt Li Xiuning's delicate, smooth, flower-like skin.

A wonderful coolness spread through her body, making Li Xiuning feel hot all over, her heart both comfortable and nervous. Yuan Yueze finally reached her other most secret spot: her beautiful breasts. As Yuan Yueze began undressing, a pair of fair and delicate breasts immediately sprang forth, bouncing and trembling violently.

Yuan Yueze kissed Li Xiuning's rosy cheeks, his large hand climbing up her smooth, full breasts, gently squeezing them in his hand. Li Xiuning's hands seemed to be electrocuted, unable to exert any strength. Yuan Yueze's playful fingers lightly pinched the soft buds at the peaks, and with a slight flick, Li Xiuning's body went limp, her starry eyes narrowed, and she collapsed into Yuan Yueze's arms, only able to breathe rapidly.

Li Xiuning's breasts were perfectly proportioned, beautiful as jade, and incredibly elastic. Her heartbeat quickened, her body trembled, causing her breasts to tremble even more, the small beads at the tips, now tinged with a rose-red, seemed to dance an alluring dance amidst the embrace of her fair breasts, completely displaying their incomparably charming beauty.

Yuan Yueze admired her for a while, then lowered his mouth and sucked on one of her breasts, his tongue constantly teasing the sensitive nipple, sucking and licking incessantly; his large hand pressed against her other breast, kneading and rubbing it.

Feeling a heat surge through her chest, an incomparably sweet pleasure coursed through her body, burning Li Xiuning with desire. Her delicate nose emitted soft, seductive moans, her body instinctively arching upwards as if no longer obeying her commands, giving Yuan Yueze's mouth and hands more room to maneuver. With

both hands and mouth attacking simultaneously, each sensation was unique; the caresses of his hands were no less than those of his mouth, the taste both sweet and fresh, almost making Li Xiuning cry out in pleasure.

After a long while, Yuan Yueze, having satisfied his craving for both hands and mouth, released her bouncing, saliva-covered breasts. Li Xiuning felt unbearably hot all over. Although she closed her eyes, unable to look, the sensation in her chest was so clear. Her sensitive nipples had swelled sweetly and stood erect, as if he had been sucking and kneading them, making them appear slightly larger, covered with marks of tender care. The feeling was so sweet and gentle, filling her heart. Her delicate body could no longer muster any strength, collapsing limply onto the bed, as if she had turned into a puddle of water, allowing her beloved man to sweetly caress her.

Yuan Yueze's large hand slid down to Li Xiuning's lower body, gently pressing against her soft, snowy buttocks, making her arch her slender waist slightly, so as to remove her pure white underpants. The impulsive pleasure within Li Xiuning was already burning fiercely. The innate shyness of a young woman made her cover her face with her hands, her delicate body trembling, her jade legs tightly closed.

With a slight exertion of force, Yuan Yueze rendered Li Xiuning's resistance futile. Her underpants were easily ripped apart, revealing her shapely, straight legs and her most mysterious little garden between her thighs.

Yuan Yueze leaned down and kissed her fragrant breasts, swirling and biting them repeatedly, eliciting soft moans from Li Xiuning, her legs involuntarily opening. Yuan Yueze released her breasts and slowly licked downwards, kissing her smooth, supple abdomen, past the lush pubic hair, finally reaching the wet entrance of her honeypot. The pink secret opening was slightly parted, revealing a pale red membrane inside. A pink clitoris was engorged and erect, gleaming with a bright sheen, and strands of clear, fragrant fluid slowly flowed from within, soaking a large patch of the sheets between her thighs and crotch. Yuan Yueze was extremely excited, opening his mouth to take the entire clitoris into his mouth and gently licking it with his tongue.

Li Xiuning was struck dumb, her delicate body trembling violently, and she cried out, "Ah!"

With a long moan, her soul seemed to soar to the highest heavens. Her legs involuntarily closed again, tightly clamping Yuan Yueze's head between them. A torrent of fluid gushed from her flower-like passage, spraying his mouth with her sweet and delicious nectar.

The cool, refreshing, and sweet-tasting fluid filled Yuan Yueze with exhilaration. He knew she had reached her first orgasm, so he slowly slowed his thrusts until her legs, so beautiful they were almost too weak to move, relaxed completely. Only then did he lift his head, his hands gently caressing her soft, slippery body. Li Xiuning was completely limp, her starry eyes half-closed, soft moans escaping her lips, lost in the afterglow of her recent climax.

Yuan Yueze swallowed large gulps of her sweet virgin fluid, then rose again, kissing her delicate lips, his hands roaming over her alluring body. He then gently licked her alluring earlobe, and Li Xiuning, still reveling in the afterglow of her climax, seemed to have all her senses and reason stripped away. Her eyes, half-open and hazy with desire, opened, and she reached out her jade-like arm to hook around his neck, quietly enjoying his caresses and kisses.

Yuan Yueze, burning with desire, lay on his side beside her, continuing his caresses while guiding her soft hand to his crotch. Li Xiuning's slender hand suddenly touched the hot, thick, and erect member, and she shuddered, instinctively pulling her hand back. Her face flushed even more, displaying an overwhelming shyness. Yuan Yueze didn't press her further, continuing to let his unruly hands roam over her smooth, white body, not forgetting to slip his fingers into her already moist and fragrant garden, parting the two delicate petals, and gently stroking the pink crevice.

Although Li Xiuning was accustomed to the debauchery of the palace, she was still a virgin. His teasing and seduction ignited her lust. Yuan Yueze's large mouth pressed against her fragrant cherry lips again, and the two engaged in another intense, passionate, and wet kiss. Li Xiuning hesitated for a moment, then tremblingly reached out her soft, fragrant hand and gently grasped the throbbing, burning hot member.

Her small hand was soft as cotton, warm and moist, and the wonderful sensation stimulated the member to throb. Yuan Yueze groaned, and his strange hand began to gently caress her wet garden again.

Li Xiuning trembled repeatedly as the throbbing python in her hand continuously transmitted stimulating currents into her body. Yuan Yueze's various stimuli combined to form a strange, intoxicating power, and her delicate hand involuntarily began to slowly stroke the spear, her movements clumsy and awkward. Yuan Yueze, however, was extremely excited, and his oral and manual movements became even more frenzied. This prompted Li Xiuning to quicken her movements, her rosy lips emitting a series of soft moans.

Yuan Yueze abruptly turned, his head hovering between Li Xiuning's legs. He reached out and cupped her round, beautiful buttocks, bringing them close to him. He opened his mouth wide and began to frantically suck and lick her glistening, mysterious vulva. Occasionally, he would move to her anus, gently licking the rosy bud. His hands would lightly roam and caress her round buttocks and the cleft between her thighs, sometimes even lightly scraping the firm, tender inner thighs.

Completely aroused, Li Xiuning's face flushed crimson. Under Yuan Yueze's increasingly skillful oral techniques, she arched her back, her hands gripping his thighs tightly, and moaned loudly.

Yuan Yueze slowed his movements. Li Xiuning regained some consciousness, barely opening her hazy eyes, staring blankly at the throbbing, massive thing before her. The fiery spear, covered in veins, seemed to both provoke and seduce her.

Drawn by the intense masculine scent, Li Xiuning, with a strength she didn't know she possessed, slowly opened her cherry lips and took the large spearhead into her mouth, gently sucking and swallowing. She made soft moans and groans, her expression one of utter ecstasy.

Although her movements were clumsy, Yuan Yueze still felt waves of tingling pleasure emanating from her, causing him to tremble slightly. His hands and mouth stimulated Li Xiuning's virgin garden with a variety of techniques.

Her honeypot, subjected to intense stimulation, caused Li Xiuning to moan ecstatically, her small mouth sucking and licking the throbbing spear with even greater effort, her jade hands gripping the shaft and rapidly stroking it.

"Mmm..."

Li Xiuning suddenly spat out the massive object, letting out a soft moan as her body convulsed again. Sweet nectar gushed forth from her flower-like opening once more, caught perfectly by Yuan Yueze's large mouth covering her pink vulva, which he swallowed greedily.

After a violent shudder, Li Xiuning collapsed, the room filled only with her heavy, fragrant breaths.

Before even losing her virginity, Li Xiuning had already climaxed twice at Yuan Yueze's touch.

Yuan Yueze turned his head, placing his arm under her disheveled head, his large mouth gently kissing the fragrant sweat on her forehead. His other hand covered her soft, swollen mons pubis, his fingers closing to cover her tightly closed labia, savoring the warm, wet sensation emanating from her honeypot.

After savoring the moment for a while, Li Xiuning slowly opened her clear, beautiful eyes. The blush on her face had faded slightly. The first thing she saw was the erect, massive member pressing against the outside of her thigh. Then

, she shyly met Yuan Yueze's loving gaze and said bashfully, "My husband still..." Her voice trailed off, barely audible even to herself. Her face flushed crimson again, and she closed her eyes.

Yuan Yueze pressed his fingers against her smooth, hot face, gently sliding them between her slightly parted thighs, the tips lightly probing the steaming opening.

Li Xiuning let out a soft moan, wrapping her arms around his neck and pressing her body tightly against him, gently twisting her body. Her erect nipples rubbed against his chest. The desire she had just released reignited, a wonderful, pleasurable sensation surging through her body. Her honeypot overflowed again, waves crashing and surging, turning into a vast, swirling marshland.

Yuan Yueze removed his large hand and knelt down on her alluring, fiery body. He noticed a large patch of wetness on the sheets beneath her, and her round buttocks and jade-like legs were soaked through. His long spear pressed against the slightly writhing opening, the soft labia parting, the delicate petals like tiny mouths gently clamping the large tip, awaiting its entry.

With a slight thrust, the tip broke through the tender flesh of the opening, the membrane symbolizing virginity, and entered Li Xiuning's body.

Li Xiuning let out a muffled groan, her body arching slightly. The excruciating pain of deflowering wasn't as intense as she had previously imagined. This was mainly because she was already blinded by lust, and having just experienced two orgasms, her body wasn't as sensitive as it had been initially. More importantly, she clearly understood Yuan Yueze's tenderness and affection. She was no longer a princess, but his beloved little wife, so she had long since abandoned her reserve. The only thing she couldn't let go of was her family.

Yuan Yueze was also grateful for the ample foreplay; otherwise, he might have found it difficult to penetrate her tight flower path.

Love is the fusion of two souls and selfless giving. It's utterly impossible for him to watch a woman cry out in pain to satisfy his own desires.

Only two kinds of people would be so perverse as to enjoy seeing their beloved woman scream in agony during lovemaking: Japanese soldiers and incompletely evolved humans.

As Li Xiuning's slightly furrowed brows relaxed, Yuan Yueze lowered his head and gently kissed her cherry lips, one hand lightly supporting her soft, supple waist. His massive member began to slowly advance, gradually penetrating her smooth, tight, and secluded flower path, exploring the most mysterious and complex "tender flesh" territory of her beautiful body.

Li Xiuning felt a tingling sensation throughout her body, an indescribable pleasure… His lips and tongue explored her gently, and she instantly became infatuated, wrapping her arms around his back, her fragrant tongue slightly protruding, tenderly guiding him in. The taste of their intertwined lips and tongues was both profound and fiery. Especially as the two were making love: the sweetness in her heart was far more intense than the physical sensations. As his tongue gently and skillfully scraped and sucked, Li Xiuning felt like the happiest person in the world.

With Yuan Yueze's gentle thrusting, she felt not only her inner valley being slowly opened, but also the heat of his massive member, which seemed to scorch her honeypot. She had thought the heat within her body had reached its peak, but she hadn't expected that the heat would almost burn her upon Yuan Yueze's penetration.

The massive object infected Li Xiuning's honeypot flower passage, affecting countless folds and tender buds. The heat intensified, slowly transforming into an indescribable tingling, itching, and numbing sensation, further stimulating the writhing of Li Xiuning's flower passage and fueling her desire. The narrow, moist walls of her flesh gently caressed the massive object, as if it were alive itself, lovingly indulging it with overflowing fluids, encouraging its continued penetration. Simultaneously, she spread her legs as wide as possible, her slender waist trembling gently, welcoming the massive object's penetration.

After a long while, with their combined efforts, their lower bodies were completely sealed. The fiery massive object finally filled Li Xiuning's narrow, tight honeypot, intimately uniting with the writhing folds and soft clitoris.

The deepest, most sensitive clitoris was pressed against, its opening slightly forced open by the pointed tip, as if being held in a small mouth. Li Xiuning comfortably released Yuan Yueze's large mouth, letting out a soft moan. Her fragrant body initially felt a slight tightness, then went limp, and she gasped for breath, clearly unable to withstand such intense stimulation. Suddenly, she felt the tip of his penis withdraw slightly, and her core felt much lighter. She barely opened her beautiful eyes, meeting Yuan Yueze's gaze with tender affection—a scene utterly intoxicating.

Yuan Yueze nibbled at her delicate earlobe, his lower body slowly thrusting in and out, his hands and mouth simultaneously caressing her sensitive lips, cheeks, earlobes, breasts, and neck.

Li Xiuning was experiencing the moving pleasure between a man and a woman for the first time, quickly sinking into a state of ecstasy. Her starry eyes were half-closed, her jade-like face flushed, and her slender waist swayed gently and shyly beneath Yuan Yueze, welcoming each powerful thrust of his massive member into her core that both caused her pain and longing. The pain stemmed from unfamiliarity with this strange sensation, while the longing was a primal human instinct emanating from the depths of her heart.

Yuan Yueze felt an extraordinary pleasure from the vibrant folds and tender flesh of her vagina, while Li Xiuning felt him thrusting deeper and harder, the sensation exquisite.

Unconsciously, their movements gradually intensified.

The desire within her was amplified by the thrusting, and her frenzied body lured Yuan Yueze into increasingly passionate and deep thrusts. Tormented both internally and externally, Li Xiuning was completely lost in pleasure, her body drenched in sweat. Her arms wrapped tightly around his strong neck, her legs encircled his waist, her cherry lips and tongue intertwined in kisses, and she swayed her slender waist and thrust her snowy buttocks with each thrust. These intense and sweet movements caused their fluids to gush out during intercourse, washing away the stains of blood on the sheets.

Li Xiuning's reaction was almost frenzied, her state bordering on hysteria. If it weren't for the bloodstains, it would be hard to believe this was her first time. Her limbs, seemingly possessed by some unknown strength, clung to Yuan Yueze, making it difficult for him to breathe. The main reason, of course, was that she had suppressed her inner turmoil for too long, coupled with her long-standing affection for Yuan Yueze and her recent two orgasms, making this encounter particularly stamina-intensive.

The two fought passionately for nearly half an hour before, under his deep thrusts, she reached the true peak of her first time. Her body trembled violently, and she cried out. In the explosion of pleasure, her vaginal walls contracted powerfully, and her virgin essence gushed forth, soaking Yuan Yueze completely. His semen, like cannonballs, shot wildly onto the tender walls of her honeypot, stimulating Li Xiuning to experience repeated orgasms, her body and mind completely immersed in a blissful paradise.

Under the sweet and exquisite stimulation, Li Xiuning cried out repeatedly, finally letting out a long, limp sigh as she collapsed onto Yuan Yueze.

After savoring the moment for a long time, Yuan Yueze caressed her alluring back and sighed, "Why are you doing this to yourself!"

He had long noticed that Li Xiuning's mental state was terrible, even worse than Chu Chu's when Zhu Leshou was around, so he hadn't considered having relations with her so soon. But Li Xiuning clung to him so tightly that he immediately understood her abnormal behavior stemmed from deep inner conflict and pain; physical release was the simplest and most direct way to cope.

Li Xiuning raised her pretty face, a mixture of sweat and silent tears from excitement, and gazed deeply into his eyes with a breathtaking look. After a long while, she said, "Although Father and my brothers are using Xiuning, what I truly care about is the survival of my family. Feng'er has said that what you, sir, are doing is for the common good, not for annihilation..."

Before she could finish, Yuan Yueze's large mouth was close again.

Li Xiuning began another wild reaction, and after another storm, both were exhausted.

Li Xiuning reluctantly grasped Yuan Yueze's wristband and said, "Xiuning dares not ask Aunt Meixian and the others for forgiveness. The more lenient they are, the more ashamed Xiuning feels. Before the arrival of a peaceful and prosperous era, would you allow Xiuning to live here, young master?"

Yuan Yueze first lightly slapped her pert buttocks, then said fiercely, "Still not changing your mind!"

Amidst Li Xiuning's soft moans, he shook his head and sighed, "Of course. I know that only time can heal all wounds. I hope you remember that we all care about you."

Li Xiuning's empty eyes also shone with an unprecedented strange light. Her jade hand caressed his face, and she murmured, "My husband is a magnanimous and unrestrained man, and he respects women even more..."

As she spoke, her voice lowered. It turned out that she could no longer hold on due to exhaustion and had fallen asleep. Her pretty face was rosy and radiant, with a faint smile of happiness and satisfaction on her lips. Her beautiful eyes were gently closed, making Yuan Yueze's heart tremble.

This princess, caught between family and love, not only shed the heavy burden of her family but also completely extricated herself from the conflict; the story of the sunflower was now a thing of the past.

The next day, Song Yuhua, who preferred quiet, was placed with Li Xiuning so she wouldn't be lonely, while Yuan Yueze went to Xin'an alone, and the women began their own busy day. The terrain of Xin'an is complex

, with mountains, hills, and valleys, seven ridges, two mountains, and one river valley.

Xin'an is strategically located at the foot of the ancient Hangu Pass, connecting Zhengzhou and Kaifeng to the east and Chang'an to the west, making it a vital military stronghold in the Central Plains since ancient times. Xin'an boasts a diverse landscape, with mountains, hills, and river valleys, gradually decreasing in elevation from northwest to southeast and from west to east. The Yellow River flows across the north, the Qinling Mountains block the south, and the Jingzi Mountain, Qingyao Mountain, Mang Mountain, and Yu Mountain interspersed with the Qinghe River, Zhenhe River, and Jianhe River valleys, earning it the reputation of "continuous mountains, overlapping peaks, exposed rocks, and deep valleys."

Yang Gongqing and Ma Chang's elite troops were stationed within the four mountains and three rivers, while the general's residence was located within Xin'an City.

Respectfully invited into the city by the guards, Yuan Yueze looked around. Although Xin'an's streets lacked the bustling activity and grandeur of Luoyang, they possessed a unique, simple, and peaceful atmosphere. Pedestrians lined the streets, seemingly unconcerned about the impending war.

Before even reaching the general's residence, the radiant Yang Gongqing and Ma Chang, who had just returned to Xin'an the day before, came out to greet him.

After exchanging pleasantries, the three sat down. After listening to Yuan Yueze's account of his experiences, Yang Gongqing remarked with a touch of emotion, "The City Lord and Mr. Xu are truly divine men. They anticipate the enemy's moves step by step, waiting for the opportune moment while also having a backup plan. I can almost see the prosperous era that will soon follow."

Yuan Yueze smiled and asked, "Could you explain this further, Mr. Yang?"

Yang Gongqing nodded and said, "Li Tang's military intervention was merely a show. Only Dou Jiande would be so foolish as to believe that Li Shimin was truly determined to besiege Luoyang. Little did he know that this was precisely Li Shimin's strategy of killing several birds with one stone."

He paused, his eyes gleaming with wisdom, and continued calmly, "Mangshan is located north of Luoyang, strategically situated on the south bank of the Yellow River, at the confluence of the Yi, Luo, Chen, and Jian rivers. Its walls are strong and thick, with a circumference exceeding fifty li. To besiege it like Dou Jiande besieged Liyang..." A complete siege of Luoyang was impossible, strategically impractical. The only viable option was to deploy heavy forces at key points to blockade the city. However, Dou Jiande clearly failed to realize that the strategic towns surrounding Mangshan were still in our hands. This was a gaping hole, allowing Li Shimin to break through the blockade at any time and threatening the survival of the attacking army. This prevented Li Shimin from dispersing his forces to besiege Luoyang; in other words, he couldn't isolate Luoyang, which was the only way to capture it. Li Shimin's siege would affect the morale of our Luoyang army, drawing our fighting strength to concentrate; it would allow us to seize every opportunity to nibble away at the surrounding cities; it would relieve pressure on Li Jiancheng on the Yangtze River; and it would also mislead Dou Jiande, prompting him to hasten his self-destructive attack on Hulao Pass!

Ma Chang interjected, "Speaking of confusing Dou Jiande, the arrangements made by the city lord and the strategist Xu also played a role. Everyone knows that the four most capable generals in the Luoyang army are General Yang, General Zhang, General Shan, and General Dugu, and coincidentally, none of them are guarding Mangshan."

Yuan Yueze pondered, "The Hulao and Yanshi line is Luoyang's lifeline. Whichever side wants to attack us will definitely send troops to intercept and seize the grain supplies transported to Luoyang, forcing the soldiers and civilians in the city into a difficult siege. Relatively speaking, the troops we placed on the eastern front are indeed a bit weak, but..." "With Xiao Zhong here, even without my father-in-law, Hulao Pass will not fall."

Yang Gongqing laughed loudly, "Ma Chang has already told me everything the city lord instructed yesterday. The Li Tang are not simple either. Li Yuanji went to the northern frontier, definitely to lure Luo Yi and Gao Kaidao, and even planned to assassinate Dou Jiande; Li Shimin personally led Qin Shubao and Li Shiji to escort the central army, the role and effect of which need no further explanation; Li Jiancheng controls the navy in the south, it's a pity I can't go and fight him!"

As he spoke, his voice rose, and his eyes shot out a hateful rage, clearly remembering the deep hatred that his whole family had died at the hands of Li Jiancheng.

Yuan Yueze laughed, "Li Jiancheng won't die so young. Even if he doesn't win the battle on the Yangtze River, escaping won't be difficult. This man is used to being arrogant and wants to prove to the Tang generals and ministers that he truly has military talent. He might very well persuade Li Yuan to send him to supervise Li Shimin. In that case, Yang Gong will have a chance to take revenge himself!"

He then added, "I've heard that Qin Shubao is an unparalleled general and an old friend of General Cheng. How could he possibly join Li Shimin's forces?"

Ma Chang explained, "According to General Cheng, when Li Mi suffered a great defeat in his attack on Luoyang, Qin Shubao was wounded and fled. He was later rescued by Li Shimin. General Cheng sent someone to see him, but they were kicked out."

Suddenly, someone came to report that "Beautiful Hu Ji" Linglong Jiao, who had gone out to investigate, had returned.

Yuan Yueze felt a surge of warmth in his heart. Yang Gongqing laughed heartily and stood up, saying, "My praise for the City Lord and Mr. Xu is not an exaggeration at all. Families can accompany generals to the front lines. Alright, we should go enjoy life now. Young Master, please stay and catch up with Jiaojiao!"

Yuan Yueze was secretly impressed. Since ancient times, when generals went to war, their families were generally not allowed to accompany them, effectively coercing the generals to pledge allegiance to one person. However, Shen Luoyan's actions not only demonstrated that there was no estrangement between her and her subordinates, thus stabilizing morale, but also alleviated the pressure on Luoyang City. Luoyang had nearly 50,000 households and a population of nearly one million. With the army, and given the slow pace of expansion, the city was already at saturation. If the families of the soldiers were added, the food supply would certainly be insufficient. Therefore, the families were all settled with the soldiers at their respective garrisons. Otherwise, simply arranging for soldiers to return home periodically to visit their families would already be a major headache.

Amidst the laughter, Yang Gongqing and his companion had already left.

Dressed in a black, form-fitting outfit that accentuated her beautiful figure, Linglong Jiao entered the hall inexplicably. Upon seeing Yuan Yueze, she immediately let out a soft cry of disbelief, standing there staring at him in a daze.

Calm and experienced, serene and dignified, graceful and aloof, exquisitely beautiful.

If she stood next to Dugu Feng, who had a similar figure, they would undoubtedly be the most stunningly beautiful pair.

This thought flashed through his mind. Yuan Yueze beckoned, and Linglong Jiao, perhaps recalling the kiss from months ago, blushed slightly, adding to her captivating beauty. After a slight hesitation, she slowly walked over and sat down.

Yuan Yueze reached into his robes and smiled, "It's been months, and Jiaojiao's charm is even more remarkable than before. Hold out your hand!"

Linglong Jiao was already used to his affectionate address. Hearing the latter part, her body trembled slightly, as if she knew what he was about to take out. She trembled slightly as she opened her smooth, glistening right palm and held it out to him.

A burst of dazzling light erupted from Yuan Yueze's arms, and the five-colored stone was placed in her palm.

Linglong Jiao let out a soft cry, her face showing surprise and joy, followed by tears of emotion. She naturally reached out with her other hand, cupping the five-colored stone tightly in her hands, her pretty face radiating a holy and beautiful glow, her gaze fixed intently on her palms.

The two sat in silence for an unknown amount of time before Linglong Jiao finally came to her senses. She clasped her hands together, holding the five-colored stone tightly, looked up at him, and said in a trembling voice, "The Persian Holy Church finally has hope of reunification. On behalf of the church members and my late mother, Linglong Jiao thanks you for your great kindness."

Yuan Yueze said with satisfaction, "This is returning it to its rightful owner; there's no need to be so polite."

Linglong Jiao carefully kept the five-colored stone close to her body and asked about Yuan Yueze's experiences beyond the Great Wall.

Finally, Yuan Yueze said with a half-smile, "This five-colored stone is something I obtained with my life. I wonder what Jiaojiao thinks after hearing this?"

He had never threatened anyone before, and Linglong Jiao knew that this boy was just making conversation, deliberately teasing and seducing her. So she rolled her eyes at him, lowered her head, and said shyly with a slightly flushed face, "If... my power is completely gone, it won't be able to recover in less than two months. What if it affects military affairs?"

Just this one sentence made it clear to anyone that she was deeply in love with him. Yuan Yueze was also impressed by the boldness and openness of the women from the borderlands. He was slightly distracted and blurted out his analysis that Li Tang was just putting on a show and would not launch a large-scale attack before Li Jiancheng or Dou Jiande were defeated.

Linglong Jiao blushed and stood up, lightly tossing out, "Then I'll come find you later!"

before trying to escape. Yuan Yueze immediately reached out and pulled her into his lap, teasing her a couple of times, which made Linglong Jiao furious. Then he said seriously, "Have you ever heard of the Peerless Kingdom?"

Faced with Linglong Jiao's boldness, he naturally thought of Lian Rou. This girl had told him worriedly last night that Commander Yun hadn't sent a single message to Luoyang for months. Considering that Liu Yuruo was still alive, he was very likely practicing martial arts in the Western Regions. It would be even better if he could kill him. Yuan Yueze couldn't help but have the idea of going to the Western Regions. He had just remembered what Liu Heita had said, which was why he asked Linglong Jiao.

Linglong Jiao, her body limp from his touch, gasped, "My mother once told me about the existence of the Peerless Kingdom, but very few people know of it. How did you find out, young master?"

Yuan Yueze recounted the story of Liu Heita, and Linglong Jiao nodded, saying, "It is said that this kingdom was established by the subordinates of the Han Dynasty general Huo Qubing, who had fled to the borderlands, near the Blackwater Kingdom. It was heavily influenced by the Central Plains, relying on grain cultivation for survival, completely different from the nomadic lifestyle of the border herders who moved with the water and grass. However, because most of its people practiced martial arts, although bandits were rampant in the borderlands, no one dared to provoke them."

The Blackwater Kingdom is said to have been established here by the Lesser Yuezhi and the Xiongnu during the pre-Qin period. Because the Xiongnu were called "Black Slaves," and the city was built on the banks of the Black River, it became the name of the kingdom. Linde City, one of the two main capitals of the famous Xiongnu Hunxie King during the Western Han Dynasty, was the capital of the Blackwater Kingdom at that time.

Linglong Jiao's clear voice reached his ears again, saying, "From the second generation onwards, the ruler of this country has been a woman, revered as the 'Peerless Holy Mother,' said to be sent by Heaven to save their people."

Yuan Yueze asked curiously, "Why is that?"

Linglong Jiao sat comfortably on his lap, a mischievous smile playing on her lips, and said, "Because the neighboring Blackwater Kingdom gradually declined, and in order to survive, it began to plunder the once self-sufficient Peerless Kingdom. After the first king died in battle, the queen, a woman from another tribe, led her people to retreat westward into the desert. Since then, the Peerless Kingdom has disappeared. Some say that the tribe perished; others say..." They established their own kingdom around Puchanghai, a precious land in the heart of the desert, and continued their former lives. The title "Peerless Holy Mother" was given in memory of the queen who led them to safety, and there are various other versions of the story. In short, it became a mysterious lost myth, gradually forgotten by the people of the borderlands. However, after that, the Blackwater Kingdom was gradually buried by shifting sands due to years of sandstorms. Han Shilong, a general of the former Sui Dynasty, had been stationed there. After he left, the Blackwater Kingdom was completely submerged by sandstorms overnight and disappeared completely.

Yuan Yueze listened and nodded, expressing his thoughts.

Linglong Jiao then said, "So, Young Master is looking for the Peerless Kingdom. If you start from Luoyang, you need to travel west, passing through Wuwei, Zhangye, Dunhuang, Shanshan, and Qiewei, and then continue northwest for nearly three months to reach the grasslands inhabited by my homeland, Kucha, and Gaochang. The desert where the Peerless Kingdom disappeared is located in the southeast of the grasslands."

Yuan Yueze sighed, "With you as my guide, I shouldn't get lost."

Linglong Jiao was greatly excited about the possibility of returning to her homeland, but hesitated, "But military affairs..."

Yuan Yueze gently pinched her supple waist and chuckled in a strange voice, "There's plenty of time, no need to rush. Alright, I need to go back to my room to wait for Miss Linglong's visit later!"

Linglong Jiao's pretty face turned even redder, and after struggling free, she fled in a disheveled state.

That night, Linglong Jiao, under the moonlight, sneaked into Yuan Yueze's room.

Her face was flushed and her heart was pounding; though shy, she longed to offer herself to her beloved. She was well aware of Yuan Yueze's sincere love for her. Although she had spent a long time in the Central Plains and been influenced by its customs, making her usually open personality more reserved, she still came to his door as agreed after her bath.

Linglong Jiao arrived at the door and was about to knock when the door opened automatically, and an irresistible force pulled her in.

In a flash, Linglong Jiao was sitting on Yuan Yueze's lap. The door was tightly closed, as if it had never been opened.

A delicate, musky fragrance wafted into his nostrils. Yuan Yueze took a deep breath and exclaimed, "Jiaojiao smells so good!"

Linglong Jiao's beautiful face flushed slightly. She didn't struggle, but simply sat quietly on his lap, her beautiful eyes gazing at his handsome face and deep gaze with a half-smile.

Having undergone a transformation, she was no longer the ordinary-looking woman she once was. Her jet-black hair was simply gathered at the back of her head, highlighting her fair, elegant, and radiant face, brimming with youthful vigor. Beneath her long, arched eyebrows, her delicate eyes were strikingly beautiful, as black as lacquer. Her lovely nose was straight and elegant. A faint smile revealed two shallow dimples at the corners of her mouth, and her lips were full and beautifully shaped; every

feature possessed a captivating and alluring charm. She exuded a mature and captivating beauty. Her petite figure was shapely and graceful: her breasts were high and full, and her curves, extending from her shoulders, created an irresistibly alluring silhouette. Her firm, rounded legs seemed to contain boundless youthful vitality, full of bouncy energy. Her soft, firm buttocks pressed tightly against Yuan Yueze's thighs, giving him an even greater thrill.

Yuan Yueze's hands restlessly gripped her slender waist, caressing her flat, plump belly through the thin gauze dress. His hard, burning member was erect, pressing forcefully against her full buttocks.

Linglong Jiao could feel the fiery stimulation beneath her buttocks.

With a soft moan, her face flushed, she leaned limply against his broad shoulders, appearing completely at his mercy.

Yuan Yueze's lust intensified. He lifted her up, spreading her legs wide, and had her sit face-to-face on his lap. Then, he extended his long tongue, teasing her neck below her ear, while his lips kissed every inch of her smooth, delicate skin. His large hands, encircling her back, moved restlessly upwards from her abdomen, vigorously caressing her full, round breasts. His rough palms massaged and squeezed her semi-protruding nipples through her clothes, while his throbbing member gently caressed her two elastic buttocks through his trousers.

Linglong's delicate body trembled, and she shyly closed her beautiful eyes.

A strange current, seemingly emanating from Yuan Yueze's grotesque hands or the air itself, invaded her body through every pore, every area caressed by Yuan Yueze, quickly spreading through every nerve and muscle, finally converging at the deepest part of her lower body. She felt her clitoris tremble slightly, and streams of warm, viscous fluid slowly flowed out, splashing onto her dry underpants.

Linglong was utterly embarrassed, her shoulders trembling slightly, her breathing becoming heavy. Her aloof phoenix eyes were now clouded with a captivating allure, and she tightly pursed her lips, trying not to moan aloud.

Yuan Yueze chuckled, his large hand slowing its movements, and kissed her luscious lips.

Linglong unconsciously wrapped her arms around his head, her inexperienced little tongue darting out, intertwining and sucking under the guidance of his nimble tongue.

They kissed tenderly, their hot bodies tightly embracing each other. In the quiet room at night, only the intoxicating sounds of lips entwined and smacking could be heard. Linglong was intoxicated: under Yuan Yueze's passionate kisses, she felt as if she were in a dream, the soft tongue almost suffocating her. She loved this breathtaking sensation; she felt the tenderness spreading infinitely through the kisses, reaching her very heart, and her consciousness gradually blurred.

The sweet kisses flowed like a spring into their bodies, irrigating their hearts and quietly nourishing their souls yearning to be possessed.

Their lips parted, and the panting Linglong met Yuan Yueze's eyes, which seemed like bottomless pools, brimming with boundless affection. Linglong was mesmerized, completely captivated by his gaze. She felt her already warm body suddenly become burning hot, her delicate nose involuntarily letting out a soft moan, then she quickly lowered her head, her face and smooth neck flushed crimson.

Yuan Yueze laughed

heartily, saying, "Why be shy, Jiaojiao?" Linglong Jiao twisted her body in protest, only to suffer more. The throbbing member sent an even stronger electric current through her body from her buttocks, intensifying her arousal. Terrified, Linglong Jiao dared not move again, leaning softly against Yuan Yueze's chest, her chest heaving violently. She lowered her head, a blissful smile she had never known before playing on her lips.

As if seeing her expression, Yuan Yueze reached out and began to remove her outer garment.

Linglong Jiao remained motionless, her face flushed with embarrassment as she watched her beloved man slowly remove her belt and deftly remove her outer garment. Underneath the thin undergarment, her fair, full breasts and faintly visible nipples were revealed. Yuan Yueze's hand moved again, and Linglong Jiao's tight trousers were instantly shattered, revealing a pair of perfectly rounded, smooth, straight pink legs that showcased her mature beauty to the fullest.

Yuan Yueze leaned forward, pressing her down onto the bed. In that instant, he swiftly tore off Linglong Jiao's last layer of clothing. Her beautiful eyes were tightly closed, and Linglong Jiao's trembling skin, as white as a budding flower, flushed even more intensely, as if it could drip blood, her allure captivating.

A shapely, curvaceous, and radiant body was fully revealed before Yuan Yueze: her firm, round, white breasts had two engorged pink nipples; at the base of her tightly closed, strong legs, a layer of soft, smooth, dark hair gently covered her swollen mons pubis.

Yuan Yueze leaned down and kissed Linglong Jiao's slightly parted lips, their tongues locked in a passionate embrace. His large hands, however, roamed freely over Linglong Jiao's fragrant body, exploring her breasts, abdomen, slender waist, mons pubis, legs, and buttocks, leaving no spot untouched.

Already lost in the passionate kiss, Linglong Jiao moaned in a daze. The electric current carrying Yuan Yueze's strange hands seemed to suddenly intensify; wherever his hands touched, the area instantly became scalding hot, causing Linglong Jiao to writhe in a frenzy of desire.

Yuan Yueze's large mouth slid down, beginning to nibble and kiss her breasts and nipples. His large hands then moved to her soft, dark pubic hair, his fingers gently parting Linglong Jiao's trembling legs, exploring her most mysterious and sacred place along the hairline. Her

sensitive nipples and clitoris were simultaneously bitten and pressed by Yuan Yueze, causing Linglong Jiao's fragrant body to tremble violently. A tingling, numbing, and pleasurable sensation gradually boiled within her. She moaned softly, letting the pleasure flow.

Yuan Yueze's fingers probed downwards, collecting a few drops of fragrant, lustful fluid from her delicate petals, then pressed back to her clitoris, increasing the pressure of his kneading. His movements were gentle, filled with love, conveying everything within Linglong Jiao's body without omission. An overwhelming pleasure surged through her brain, her slender waist arched slightly, and she let out a long, soft moan: "Mmm..."

Yuan Yueze's fingers suddenly withdrew, which made her breathe a sigh of relief. At the same time, a strange feeling of emptiness and loss arose in her heart. Then, she arched her waist forcefully, her head swayed, and she groaned: "No... it's dirty..."

It turned out that Yuan Yueze had already bent down, parted the two fair petals, and extended his nimble tongue to tease the two petals and the fleshy opening.

The pleasure left Linglong Jiao's mind blank, her jade hands gripping the sheets desperately. She began to tremble with bliss, her body weak, yet she didn't know where the strength came from to support her arching her back forcefully. In her hazy consciousness, she only knew that she was feeling incredibly good. Yuan Yueze's enchanting, playful tongue continued to tease her most mysterious little garden, her honey pot began to convulse, continuously gushing out large amounts of hot fluid. Although she couldn't see it, she could feel Yuan Yueze swallowing her strange secretions mouthful by mouthful, filling her with boundless emotion and stimulation, making her body increasingly aroused.

Her pubic hair wasn't very thick, but it was evenly distributed, running from her mons pubis downwards, around her labia majora, and finally converging at her perineum, with even a few strands around her dark red anus.

Yuan Yueze sucked and licked vigorously, and Linglong Jiao let out joyful moans, her jade legs tightly clamping his head, making it unclear whether she wanted Yuan Yueze to continue.

Yuan Yueze stopped, and Linglong Jiao's jade legs loosened slightly. He quickly pressed his lips to her delicate ear and chuckled, "Jiaojiao, is it alright?"

Linglong Jiao, her chest heaving, barely opened her eyes, giving him a reproachful yet delighted look, but didn't answer. Then, she felt the fiery, massive member that had been pressing against her buttocks now approaching her overflowing garden. The large, burning head forcefully parted her labia, rubbing up and down between her clitoris and perineum. An

even stronger wave of pleasure washed over her. Linglong Jiao writhed, her breaths and moans becoming increasingly rapid, her love juices flowing even more profusely.

Yuan Yueze's massive member throbbed, veins bulging. He could no longer restrain himself. He pressed the tip against the steaming entrance of her honeyed cave, thrusting forward, the menacing glans forcing open her delicate, glistening labia, plunging into her honeyed depths.

Linglong Jiao let out a muffled groan; her virginity, preserved for over twenty years, was finally lost. But she felt no loss, for it was given to the man she loved.

Perhaps because she practiced martial arts regularly, her physical condition was much better than that of ordinary women. Combined with ample foreplay, the pain of deflowering wasn't particularly intense.

The massive member firmly filled the folds of flesh within the delicate labia of her flower-like opening, while the fleshy grooves of its rear ridges rubbed against the inner petals, causing even more love juice to secrete from the already moist crevices.

The massive member stopped advancing, its thick, hot tip teasing the delicate petals that tightly gripped the tip and the twitching entrance of her flower-like opening. Yuan Yueze lowered his head to caress and kiss her, and her delicate body trembled slightly, responding passionately. Her breathing became increasingly rapid, her pretty face increasingly flushed, and love juice gushed out. Her pert, snowy buttocks swayed gently with the bouncing, rubbing of the tip, seemingly anticipating its further penetration.

Yuan Yueze placed his large hand between her slender waist and rounded buttocks, gently lifting her. His thick, long spear slowly pressed forward, the hot, hard tip forcing open the undulating folds of tender flesh, steadily and powerfully pushing into the deepest part of her tight flower passage. A

swollen yet tingling sensation of pleasure intensely stimulated Linglong Jiao as the spear thrust in. Her slender waist twisted more and more, seemingly dissatisfied with the slow progress of the massive object.

"Sizzle!"

When the massive object had traveled two-thirds of the way, influenced by Linglong Jiao, Yuan Yueze exerted a little force, thrusting all the way in. His lower abdomen slapped against her rounded buttocks, making a "smack" sound.

The tip of the spear pressed tightly against the tender flower core, even more sensitive than the clitoris. Linglong Jiao couldn't help but let out a soft cry from the bottom of her throat, arching her body backward, resting her head on Yuan Yueze's shoulder, breathing rapidly.

Yuan Yueze pressed his lips to her soft red lips, sucking on her delicate tongue. His large hands simultaneously pressed against her two full, tender breasts, kneading them vigorously. Her full breasts were tightly squeezed, and her delicate nipples stood erect. Pressing down further, her full breasts were kneaded and deformed in his hands. His lower body began to slowly thrust in and out.

Although the pressure on her flower core lessened, with Yuan Yueze's thrusts, pleasure surged through her entire flower passage again. Linglongjiao wildly sucked on his tongue, constantly swallowing their mixed saliva. Her proud, snow-white breasts rose and fell with Yuan Yueze's thrusts and kneading, her shapely waist unconsciously arching upwards, swaying in response, and fragrant nectar seeping from her flower core.

The speed of their thrusting gradually increased. The long spear, deep inside her honeypot, stretched the tightly wrapped flesh to its limit, lifting high before plunging in heavily. Linglong's rapid breathing rose and fell, her devilishly delicate, snow-white body trembling violently from the tide of pleasure surging within her. The enormous member, swelling with excitement, fully filled her narrow honeypot, each withdrawal bringing forth fresh love juice. Linglong's sensitive clitoris was constantly pounded by the massive member, her body twisting more and more violently, creating even more intense friction in the blurred vision.

Yuan Yueze, squeezed by her soft clitoris and the fleshy bud of her honeypot, felt waves of intense pleasure continuously emanating from the long spear, driving his movements to a frenzy.

Linglong Jiao, lost in ecstasy, arched her back and thrust her snowy buttocks. Yuan Yueze cooperated perfectly, supporting her plump buttocks, wet with her juices, and moving in sync with her movements. Each time, he plunged his entire length into her honeypot, reaching the very core of her flower. The intense pleasure made her mouth wide open, moaning repeatedly. The walls of her honeypot were incredibly resilient and elastic. With each thrust of Yuan Yueze, the increasingly powerful contractions within her flower passage relentlessly stimulated the tip of his penis, making Yuan Yueze almost lose control of his pleasure.

Only someone like her, who had practiced martial arts, would dare to react so intensely on her first night. If it were the weak Wei Zhenzhen, Su Su, or Song Yuhua back then, it would be a miracle if they didn't cry out in pain, let alone frantically respond.

Linglong Jiao grew increasingly excited, her brows furrowed, small beads of sweat appearing on her flushed face, her naked body a deep crimson. With a high-pitched, lustful cry, her full buttocks desperately met Yuan Yueze's thrusts, her juices splashing everywhere. The long spear, immersed in the honey pot, trembled from the massage of the flesh walls and the flower core, waves

of pleasure surging forth. The two mate wildly, their lower bodies, wet with waves of fluid, colliding and making continuous "tsk tsk" sounds.

"It's coming! Ah..."

The exquisite, fragrant body suddenly trembled unnaturally. Her lips were tightly pressed together, she first let out a low, muffled breath, then a scream, her whole body shaking violently, her limbs tightly wrapped around Yuan Yueze.

The flesh walls inside the flower passage began to writhe extensively, powerfully gripping the spear shaft. Yuan Yueze immediately thrust in all the way, pressing the tip against the flower core. The convulsing flower core suddenly gushed out a large amount of vaginal fluid. Sprayed with the vaginal fluid, the huge penis swelled violently several times, shooting out streams of powerful semen, continuously impacting the writhing flower core.

The two instantly secreted copious amounts of fluid, which their delicate flower passages couldn't possibly contain. A portion seeped into their uteruses as their clitoris opened and closed, while the rest overflowed around the swollen shaft of their penises with the violent contractions of their vaginal walls, even making a "sizzling" sound.

The two embraced softly, panting heavily as they kissed…

July 14th, midday.

Yuan Yueze and Zhu Yuyan appeared together at the top of a waterfall atop a giant rock on the southern slope of Phoenix Mountain, gazing down.

For the past two months, small-scale clashes between the Tang army and the Luoyang army had been constant, resulting in casualties on both sides, but the overall situation hadn't changed much. Perhaps to divert attention from Hulao Pass, Dou Jiande dispatched troops to the west and north in early May, severely damaging Liu Shirang, the general guarding Tumen of Litang, and Luo Yi, a powerful figure in Youzhou, respectively. His territory expanded again, and at the end of May, he announced the relocation of the capital to Mingzhou, declaring himself Emperor of Xia. For a time, the Hebei army gained immense power, seemingly poised to overwhelm the other factions. Dou Jiande, basking in his glory, was completely unaware that he was actively walking towards his doom.

The decisive battle between the Demonic Sect's supreme leaders was taking place on a small plain half a mile outside Sun Creek at the eastern foot of Phoenix Mountain. Wanwan had arrived at the battle site ten days prior to quietly cultivate.

Zhu Yuyan's beautiful eyes swept around, finally settling on a downhill path to the east. "There are corpses there!" she exclaimed.

The two immediately set off. Upon reaching the slope, they saw over a hundred corpses on the ground, each body intact, yet their deaths were gruesome and terrifying, easily suggesting they had witnessed something horrific before their demise.

Zhu Yuyan, her jade-like hand supporting her rounded chin, pondered, "It must have been Shi Zhixuan who did it! These people are richly dressed and armed with swords; they are clearly martial arts figures of considerable status who came to observe the battle."

Yuan Yueze nodded. Thanks to the promotion by Wanwan and the other women, the Demonic Sect was gaining momentum, but the Unification Conference was surprisingly lackluster, leaving people greatly disappointed. Thanks to the efforts of Anlong and others, news of the decisive battle had spread through various means, including waterways and land routes, making it a top priority attracting widespread attention, and the outcome even became a subject of gambling in the marketplace. Shi Zhixuan's ruthless killings were a warning to those who wanted to watch but were not qualified.

Glancing at Yuan Yueze, who was gazing at the rolling valleys on the eastern slopes of Phoenix Mountain, Zhu Yuyan asked mischievously, "Do you miss Shi Qingxuan?"

Yuan Yueze laughed, put his arm around her slender waist, and said, "I was wondering what your expression would be if Qingxuan called you 'sister'?"

Zhu Yuyan giggled, appearing completely calm.

The two continued towards their destination. The sky gradually darkened, making the mountain range, with its array of peaks and shimmering silver waves, appear eerily silent.

Yuan Yueze gazed up at the sky, where thin clouds had suddenly appeared, and sighed, his eyes seemingly able to pierce through the mist: "Man follows the earth, the earth follows heaven, and heaven transforms into nature. Man and heaven interact, the four seasons change, and the human heart is filled with illusions. Wan'er and Shi Zhixuan's primordial spirits have long been locked in a

fierce struggle, and at the moment they were about to reach their peak, even the celestial phenomena were affected." Both of them were extraordinary in their spiritual cultivation, and they had long since sensed that upon entering the Phoenix Mountain area, two immense and unparalleled spiritual forces were intertwined and fighting, drawing upon various forces of nature

. Zhu Yuyan nodded gently, remained silent for a moment, and said, "Wan'er's spirit is like an invincible tornado, while Shi Zhixuan's spirit is like a still, bottomless abyss, seemingly motionless, but actually possessing astonishing potential."

Yuan Yueze suddenly narrowed his eyes and smiled: "Yuyan is wondering about Shi Zhixuan's abnormality; we will soon have the answer."

Zhu Yuyan followed his gaze and saw a small stone house built against the mountain ahead, with nothing particularly special about it. Both of them knew perfectly well that "Evil King" Shi Zhixuan was inside.

Sure enough, Shi Zhixuan's voice rang out from inside: "Xiao Ze, come in and talk!"

Yuan Yueze and Shi Zhixuan exchanged glances, not only because Shi Zhixuan's voice was gentle and contained no trace of murderous intent, but also because he had never addressed Yuan Yueze like that before.

Zhu Yuyan gave him a wink and then headed towards the battlefield alone.

Yuan Yueze gently pushed open the door and entered.

The small, empty stone room contained nothing but a stone bed.

The renowned Evil King, still dressed in a scholar's robe, sat cross-legged on the bed with his eyes closed, saying calmly, "Sit!"

Yuan Yueze frowned and sat down at the head of the bed, intently scrutinizing Shi Zhixuan with his entire being's "mind's eye."

The moment he entered the room, he had a strange feeling.

He believed he had a deep understanding of the members of the Demonic Sect: from the "Evil Emperor" Xiang Yutian to the "Empress of the Underworld" Zhu Yuyan, and now Wanwan, they all possessed an indescribable yet strikingly eerie and mysterious aura. Even the handsome and dashing Hou Xibai had a touch of the wicked. The only exception was the "Evil King" Shi Zhixuan. He could be overwhelmingly evil, but when he disguised himself as a virtuous and holy monk of Wulou Temple, he exuded a transcendent and righteous aura, both inside and out, with a kind and benevolent face that could deceive anyone. Although the Shi Zhixuan before him constantly emanated a chilling aura of alternating hot and cold, and his evil aura was even stronger than it had been in the past six months, he gave Yuan Yueze a sense of profound tranquility, peace, and serene joy that was difficult to describe.

Suddenly, Shi Zhixuan opened his eyes, and a bolt of lightning as sharp as a blade shot out, almost causing the unsuspecting Yuan Yueze to lose his composure. The divine light flashed and vanished in an instant. Shi Zhixuan withdrew his domineering aura, regaining his composed demeanor. A kind look appeared in his eyes as he smiled and said, "I heard that Shi Feixuan has fallen in love with you and has been imprisoned by Fan Qinghui to reflect on

her actions." Yuan Yueze didn't know why the other party would say such a thing. His intuition told him that Shi Zhixuan's strength had increased again in the past six months, even reaching a level where Yuan Yueze couldn't guarantee he could defeat him.

His expression remained unchanged as he stared at Shi Zhixuan without moving, slightly taken aback: Shi Feixuan had indeed developed feelings for him, but it wasn't to the point of life and death. Moreover, how did Shi Zhixuan obtain such confidential information?

A mysterious, enigmatic smile played on Shi Zhixuan's lips as he said casually, "The sweetness of love can only last a short time; the final result is always heartbreaking. That's why I killed Xiuxin back then, so that her most beautiful moment would forever remain in my memory. Only after my cultivation reached a new level did I truly applaud my actions back then, my way of relieving my inner torment."

Yuan Yueze remained silent, his gaze fixed intently on Shi Zhixuan, as if trying to see through his heart.

Shi Zhixuan seemed lost in beautiful memories or dreams, a satisfied smile appearing on his face, making him even more eerie. He sighed deeply, "Since then, I've understood that 'killing' isn't as terrifying as the world sees it, but rather a kind of 'beauty' that only a few can recognize. Xiuxin is my greatest creation to date. Unfortunately, because of your appearance, I haven't been able to complete the second perfect work of art in my life."

He was naturally referring to Zhu Yuyan.

Yuan Yueze suddenly burst into laughter, as if he had encountered the happiest moment of his life. He then rose and walked towards the door, offering no comment on Shi Zhixuan's views, and sighed, "Today's battle will surely make me famous for all time!"

Watching Yuan Yueze leave, Shi Zhixuan closed his eyes, his expression as serene as ever.

No one knew what he was thinking.

-----

Chapter 146 Supreme Showdown

The Li Tang Navy, led by its flagship ironclad warship "Tianwei," was flanked by four other warships of the same class: Yulong, Feihu, Yinying, and Yexiao. The mighty fleet sailed down the river.

Li Jiancheng and his trusted generals stood at the bow of the "Tianwei," leisurely admiring the scenery along the Yangtze River. He wore a light, mud-yellow armor, covered by a long, silver cloak that fluttered in the wind, exuding an air of domineering arrogance.

In the afternoon sun, the Yangtze River resembled a vast jade ribbon, its surface rippling with waves of varying sizes and shapes, like thousands of silver snakes struggling and writhing. The land on both banks had gradually flattened out, terraced fields cascading down the river, lush and verdant, with the distant Red Cliff Mountain shrouded in mist, creating a breathtaking panorama.

Just over an hour earlier, the Li Tang navy, with 320 warships, had launched a surprise attack down the river, effortlessly capturing Yiling, the only major town south of the Yangtze for the Luoyang army. Li Jiancheng, tasting victory for the first time, was ecstatic: the thrill of victory was so wonderful, no less than being surrounded by admirers and receiving the worship of thousands. He was also more confident about the larger naval battles to come.

Li Tang cooperated with Xiao Xian without worrying about deception. Given the current situation, Xiao Xian neither wanted to surrender nor could simply hold Baling. Therefore, he accepted Li Jiancheng's proposal: the section of the Yangtze River waterway from Bashu to Xiakou, originally controlled by Xiao Xian, would be temporarily lent to Li Tang, and any cities south of the Yangtze River that Li Tang acquired would belong to Xiao Xian.

This was a mutually beneficial agreement: Xiao Xian understood that the major battles were concentrated in the Yellow River basin and near Luoyang. If Li Tang were to seize Baling now, it would be asking for trouble. Therefore, Li Tang's target was only strategically important cities north of the Yangtze, such as Xiangyang. If Xiangyang fell, Luoyang would be unable to provide aid, and Li Tang would naturally prepare for the contingency of the Flying Horse Ranch. Thus, only Lin Shihong, far from the battlefield, could provide relief. This was a perfect opportunity for the ambitious Xiao Xian to expand, and he hoped that Luoyang and Li Tang would fight to the death. As for Li Tang, they completely disregarded the overconfident Xiao Xian. Their primary objective was still Luoyang; once they captured Luoyang, they would slowly wear down Xiao Xian.

Standing proudly to Li Jiancheng's right, with a sword at his waist and a relaxed and comfortable demeanor, the short, thin old man was none other than "Old Monkey" Li Nantian. His internal strength had reached its peak, making him a veteran master of the Li Tang dynasty, Li Yuan's cousin, and also his head of the guards. To Li Jiancheng's left, holding a golden spear, was his brother-in-law, "Golden Spear" Mei Xun, the leader of the South Sea Sect. Standing shoulder to shoulder with Mei Xun was a one-eyed middle-aged man holding a heavy guandao about eight feet long. This man was strong and burly, with a broad jaw, a slightly bald head, and a somewhat thieving look, exuding a fierce and ruthless aura. He was none other than Zong Luohou, the invincible general under Xue Ju. After Xue Ju and his son were defeated, he secretly joined Li Jiancheng for a living.

Other important generals who accompanied Li Jiancheng included Qin Wutong, nicknamed "Thunder Blade," a renowned general of the Tang court. His Thunder Blade technique was famous throughout the northern deserts, and he was on par with Pang Yu and Yuchi Jingde of the Tian Ce Mansion. He stood to Li Jiancheng's left rear, carrying a large sword and his horse-like face expressionless. Standing to Li Jiancheng's right rear was Qiu Tianjue, a man in black wielding a spear, Li Jiancheng's favorite general. His martial arts surpassed even Qin Wutong's, and he was a rising star from Guanzhong.

Behind them in the next row was Wei Jiaqing, nicknamed "Sword Gentleman," a handsome and refined gentleman, one of the three disciples of Jin Dazhuang, the leader of the Longxi School. Next to him in the same row were Er Wenhuan and Xue Wanche, two of the "Five Generals of Changlin." The former was robust and fierce-looking, with a penchant for fighting; the latter was handsome and possessed the air of a peerless master, his martial arts skills no less than Li Jiancheng's. Another person not on this ship was Li Xiong, the second-in-command of the Jingzhao Alliance, who had long been defeated by Hou Wenqing. Li Xiong had always been closely associated with Li Jiancheng, and after the Jingzhao Alliance's collapse, he secretly defected to Li Jiancheng . He was skilled in naval warfare and was personally steering the "Jade Dragon." The others were some lesser-known generals.

Li Jiancheng glanced back at his fleet, whose stern was barely visible, and the nearby fishermen who had been frightened and pulled their boats to the shore, a smug smile spreading across his face.

To seize control of the Yellow River, the Li clan had been actively training their navy. The main equipment for naval warfare was the warship, a hybrid of city walls, fortifications, and chariots. A good warship was brave in battle, solid in defense, fast in pursuit, and strong in charge; only by achieving bravery, solidity, speed, and strength could it be called a good warship. However, warships were extremely vulnerable in naval warfare, so not only did they need to be numerous, but they also needed to be diverse in performance to cope with the ever-changing nature of combat. Over hundreds of years of development, to meet the diverse needs of warfare, ships were categorized by size and equipment, each with its own specific purpose. The largest of these was the tower ship, a tall and wide vessel resembling a tower, capable of carrying hundreds of people. It had a pointed hull, a wide deck, a high bow and stern, and a deep draft, making it ideal for navigating oceans and breaking through waves.

First, scouts were sent to the Pegasus Ranch to learn the techniques, and then the artisans of the Tang Dynasty racked their brains to transform the famous "Five-Toothed Battleship" of the old Sui Dynasty into a smaller but more powerful tower ship, resulting in five warships including the "Tianwei". These five warships had only three decks, with iron-clad protective plates along the sides, making them sturdy as walls. The interior had four levels; the lowest level was filled with wood and stone to compact the bottom, making the hull stable and reducing rocking in rough seas. "Oar holes" were located on both sides of the hull for the oars to extend, with the oarsmen concealed within the hull. Instead of oar holes on either side of the stern, eight giant wheels were installed, operated by foot pedals in the stern cabin to propel the boat and increase the number of masts and sails to ten, further increasing its speed. This trick was stolen from Lu Miaozi.

These ships were large, powerful, and intimidating to the enemy. With favorable winds and currents, they could easily crush smaller ships, like a chariot crushing a mantis, relying on hull strength rather than manpower… However, they were not maneuverable and difficult to control, so they had to be combined with other types of warships to unleash their full power.

The troops accompanying Li Jiancheng on the expedition accounted for one-third of the entire Tang navy. In addition to five luxurious main warships, there were fifty Mengchong fighting ships of a slightly lower rank, mainly used for charging and breaking through the enemy. These ships were ten zhang shorter than the five main warships, which were twenty-five zhang long, and still had bulwarks built on both sides of the hull, covered with raw cowhide. Because of their shorter hull, the oar holes were located at the bottom of the bulwarks, allowing for the use of oars. Lacking the commanding position of a high-flying warship, its protective walls were equipped with crossbow windows and bow holes. During the Battle of Red Cliffs in the Three Kingdoms period, Zhou Yu, the Grand Commander of Eastern Wu, used dozens of Mengchong warships, filled with firewood and oil, to launch a surprise attack on Cao Cao's fleet, burning it to ashes. This demonstrates the Mengchong warship's advantage in attacking the enemy with long-range weapons.

The other two hundred or so smaller warships were mainly light and agile dinghies and yachts.

As Li Jiancheng turned around, he saw Li Nantian frowning and asked curiously, "What are you thinking about, Imperial Uncle?"

Li Nantian replied calmly, "This old minister is wondering if the wars in other places have also begun."

Li Jiancheng laughed heartily and said, "Today is the best opportunity. Dou Jiande will definitely launch an attack on Hulao Pass."

Then, a cold glint flashed in his eyes, and he added, "The Prince of Qin will probably also seize the opportunity to attack the south bank of the Yangtze River."

In his heart, however, he cursed the Demonic Sect: He had originally planned to lead his navy out of Sichuan when everyone's attention was drawn to the Demonic Sect Conference in April. Unfortunately, Wanwan and the others made a lot of noise but accomplished little. In the end, no one outsiders even knew where the Demonic Sect Conference was held. Fortunately, there was this highly anticipated Supreme Battle. Otherwise, Li Jiancheng's expedition might have been delayed. If he hadn't been careful, his two brothers would have stolen the limelight, which would have been incredibly painful for him!

Mei Xun said coldly, "The Song Clan should also be launching an attack on the southern gateway of Sichuan!"

Li Jiancheng said, "Minister Mei, don't be agitated. Ever since the Song Clan secretly seized Hainan Island, the enmity between us has been established. Now that we have sent troops to the Sichuan border region, I believe the Song Clan will not succeed. Heh! I hope we can encounter their so-called warship fleet that dominates the Yangtze River today! Then we can use the large quantity of oil produced in Sichuan that is inextinguishable in water and resistant to water to properly 'thank' them!"

Li Nantian, being a martial artist, sighed that he was not fortunate enough to witness the supreme battle of the Demonic Sect. Upon hearing this, he immediately said, "Your Highness, remember that the enemy is extremely cunning. Do not be careless."

He was Li Jiancheng's cousin. Although their official positions differed, he came out this time to protect him personally and to supervise him. A flash of displeasure crossed Li Jiancheng's eyes, but he said, "Uncle is right."

After a pause, he continued, beaming, "The upper reaches of the Yangtze River, up to Yiling, are swift and have many shoals. From Yiling to Xiakou, the river meanders and has many lakes. This is the best position to attack us. After Xiakou, the river widens to over two hundred zhang and the current slows down. We can reach Xiakou in just one hour, and the enemy hasn't attacked yet. This means our army has all the advantages and the initiative. It would be difficult for us to lose! The strong overcome the weak, the firm overcomes the brittle, the wind prevails over the wind, the current prevails over the current, and we must guard against shallow waters, fire, wind, breaches, and iron chains. These are the nine principles of water management. If any one of them is violated, it will lead to the disaster of capsizing and loss of life. I understand this principle!"

Everyone was speechless for a moment.

Suddenly, a small wooden boat appeared ahead, and a short man in a tight leather jacket leaped from it, landing before Li Jiancheng and kneeling, saying, "The scouts report that nearly a hundred warships bearing the Song clan's banner have appeared near Xiakou."

Li Jiancheng snorted coldly and ordered, "Perfect timing! All generals, heed my command!"

Yuan Yueze followed his memory to a secluded valley hidden in the woods.

He paused by the stream in front of the stone house, then immediately stepped on the boulders that jutted out in the stream, heading towards the source of the stream, which snaked around the back of the house into the depths of the woods.

The beautiful woman he hadn't seen for over a year wasn't in the house.

Following the winding stream, deep into the dense forest, he thought the stream had ended, but then a breathtaking view opened up: a small waterfall, its waters emitting a melodious, ethereal sound, cascaded down from a crevice in the mountainside, rushing down the verdant cliffs of the valley, forming a small pool at the bottom. Obstructed by the dense forest, this hidden paradise was neither visible from the other side nor could the natural symphony of the waterfall be heard.

Yuan Yueze moved mechanically, driven by his increasingly rapid heartbeat. He leaped to the tangled old trees above the waterfall, parted the branches, and went inside. Although the hall was pitch black, it did not impair his vision in the slightest. Behind the dense trees at the source of the waterfall was a hidden world: a natural cave had been transformed into an elegant little hall. Though small, it was fully equipped with all the necessities of a household, including furniture and other household items. At one end of the hall was a shrine inscribed with "The Spirit Tablet of My Late Mother, Bi Xiuxin".

The moment he entered, Shi Qingxuan, who had been sitting cross-legged on a cushion beside a small table with her eyes closed in meditation, opened her bright, beautiful eyes and looked over.

Yuan Yueze stood frozen in place.

His eyes, brighter than stars, deep and clear, met Shi Qingxuan's clear, serene eyes, which seemed to contain the deepest night sky and the brightest stars. Their gazes met instantly, inseparable, like magnets drawn to each other. They felt a strange sensation, as if the other were both close at hand and hidden within the deeper layers of the universe.

They were intoxicated.

Their senses were clearer and more acute than ever before. In that instant, the chirping of cicadas outside the cave, the cold wind, the unique scents of trees and flowers, the sound of the flowing waterfall—from the vast universe to the smallest blade of grass and stone—each possessed its own unique charm, captivating them and allowing them to feel the meaning behind life, fully enjoying this intoxicating feeling that filled the world.

When Yuan Yueze came to his senses, he found himself sitting opposite her. Shi Qingxuan, now seated sideways, was lighting a small oil lamp.

The lamplight illuminated Shi Qingxuan's exquisitely beautiful figure. Even Bi Xiuxin's shrine seemed to exude a solemn and sacred aura; the flickering flame of the lamp acted as a conduit between the underworld and the mortal realm.

Shi Qingxuan wore a pale purple long gown and an apricot-yellow silk skirt, revealing a pair of delicate, jade-like feet. She wore no makeup, and her beautiful face, though radiant with intelligence, still carried a hint of melancholy, possessing a unique, aloof beauty. Because of her presence, everything around them began to seem dreamlike and unreal, intoxicatingly sweet and captivating.

Yuan Yueze stared blankly at her radiant, divinely glowing face like a dazed bird.

Shi Qingxuan's smile widened. A radiant smile, like the moon rising over the eastern mountains, illuminated the earth, dispelling her seemingly innate melancholy. She opened her mouth slightly, her voice playfully reproachful, "Silly boy, haven't you seen enough?"

Hearing her clear, cool, heavenly voice again, Yuan Yueze nodded mechanically.

Shi Qingxuan, unable to withstand his intense gaze, blushed crimson on her jade-like cheeks and lowered her head slightly. To hide her embarrassment, she gently combed her long, glossy black hair with her slender fingers, oblivious to the fact that her quiet, elegant movements were captivatingly charming, capable of bewitching anyone.

Yuan Yueze gazed deeply at her, a surge of boundless pride welling up within him.

He smiled and said, "I've come today to fetch Qingxuan." His emphasis on the word "fetch" caused the intelligent and perceptive Shi Qingxuan to tremble violently. She lowered her head even further, almost burying it in her full, firm breasts. The blush on her swan-like neck and the delicate blush at her ears betrayed her shyness; she was clearly caught off guard by Yuan Yueze's directness. All talk of unspoken understanding and perfect harmony was utterly useless. Silence

fell. After a long while, Shi Qingxuan finally raised her eyes. Her beautiful face seemed to glow with a divine light, breathtakingly beautiful. Her eyes shone with a deep, unwavering affection as she met his gaze, returning his burning eyes and revealing her innermost feelings to him without reservation—a sentiment more powerful than a thousand words or tender whispers.

Yuan Yueze, unaware of who was controlling his hands, reached forward and, in the next instant, pulled the stunningly beautiful woman with a tragic past into his arms. He caressed her soft, boneless shoulders and slender waist, feeling the youthful vitality and elasticity in her touch, and with all his passion, he sought her fragrant lips. Shi Qingxuan's delicate body trembled violently from the stimulation, and in no time, her lips became hot and soft. Her jade hands wrapped around his neck, and she was intoxicated by the soul-stirring, bone-melting kiss.

Gazing at the panting Shi Qingxuan lying in his arms, Yuan Yueze was captivated and sighed, "You almost bewitched me!"

Shi Qingxuan was overwhelmed with shame. Seeing that this scoundrel was acting innocent after getting the better of her, she immediately gave him a few light punches.

Yuan Yueze let out a few exaggerated cries, then said, "A world-shaking battle is about to begin! If Qingxuan, you're too weak, I can carry you to watch!"

Shi Qingxuan's delicate body trembled slightly as she struggled to sit up. Her clothes were disheveled, her hair messy, and her face, flushed with embarrassment, suddenly darkened. Her beautiful eyes were veiled with a deep, sorrowful look as she softly said, "Qingxuan doesn't want to watch."

Then she began to arrange the exquisite tea set on the table, leisurely starting to brew tea.

Yuan Yueze's heart skipped a beat. He realized that she must be overwhelmed by her own helpless situation, unable to control herself, and her rapid and complex change in expression stemmed from her inability to forgive Shi Zhixuan. He reached out and gently grasped her soft hands, his gaze lingering on her beautiful eyes. He said softly, "Qingxuan, don't deceive yourself. No one can change the blood ties between you. Today might be the last time you see him!"

Shi Qingxuan's jade-like hands trembled, spilling half a cup of tea onto the silver tray. She then raised her beautiful eyes, looking at him with confusion.

Yuan Yueze finished his tea and explained, "Qingxuan's cultivation has improved greatly this year. You should be able to sense his presence, right? Don't you feel he's very different from before?"

Shi Qingxuan's brow furrowed slightly, revealing a few delicate and endearing ripples. Then she shook her head.

Yuan Yueze gave a bitter smile and recounted his meeting with Shi Zhixuan, saying, "Although he concealed it very well, I'm certain he was using Feixuan to test my feelings for Qingxuan. He may have missed his chance, but today's Evil King is merely a husband filled with pain and regret, a father burdened with guilt and shame."

Shi Qingxuan's face paled, and with great self-control, she maintained a calm voice, softly saying, "You overestimate him. My mother warned me before she died that Shi Zhixuan has an innate tendency towards self-destruction. He cannot tolerate perfect outcomes, whether for himself or others. Just as he told you, when he and my mother were enjoying the most blissful and beautiful life, like the blossoming of love, that was the moment he would kill my mother. The Great Sui Dynasty was built with Yang Jian's help, and it was also destroyed by him. This is the most terrifying aspect of his character; you must never be swayed by him." "There are no dreams or fantasies. He's deliberately trying to give you and me hope, which is a harbinger of his intention to destroy everything, including himself. He's not only determined to destroy you, but also me."

She paused, then glanced at him with a puzzled look, and said, "I'm really curious why you misunderstood his words like that? He's using the duel to destroy himself, because it's his nature—an incompatible force between evil and conscience—just like how he destroyed his mother and himself at the same time. Shi Zhixuan isn't a normal person; he's never understood how to find true joy and peace in the mundane. Only through destruction and ruin can he satisfy his evil thoughts and heart."

Yuan Yueze shook his head helplessly. Shi Qingxuan's prejudice against Shi Zhixuan was too deep, but last year, when Shi Zhixuan was on the verge of death, she intervened to stop Yuan Yueze, something he still couldn't understand.

Shi Qingxuan's melodious voice reached his ears again, saying, "I've spent most of the past year in seclusion, only venturing out twice. Once was when Master Lu was blessed with a son, and the other was on the sixth day of the sixth lunar month, the anniversary of my mother's death. I sensed he was eavesdropping from afar, listening to me play the tune my mother composed for her. His spirit remained completely still, a sign that he's completely possessed by demons, leaving no room for doubt. The final battle might be for self-destruction, or perhaps he wants to destroy everything after victory! That's why he chose the Ghost Festival for the final battle."

Her tone was calm and even, as if nothing in the world could stir a ripple in his heart.

Yuan Yueze didn't know what to say. Shi Zhixuan was indeed ruthless and heartless, but he couldn't believe that the Evil King could sever his deep affection for Bi Xiuxin and his fatherly love for Shi Qingxuan. It was purely an intuition, needing no reason and for which he couldn't find one. He sighed and said helplessly, "Then may I ask Qingxuan to come with me to watch the battle?"

Shi Qingxuan stared at him in astonishment for a long time before pouting her beautiful cherry lips and nodding gently.

The sky was overcast with gloomy clouds, adding to the desolate and lonely atmosphere.

A thunderstorm was imminent.

Led by Shi Qingxuan, Yuan Yueze arrived at a hill about half a mile from the battlefield. Among the spectators present were Hou Xibai, who stood with Zhu Yuyan, and An Long and his group further away, as well as the "Recluse" Ning Daoqi, the Fourth Patriarch of Zen Buddhism, Master Daoxin, and a middle-aged nun with a blank expression. After nodding to Ning Daoqi and Daoxin, the two approached Zhu Yuyan. Shi Qingxuan greeted them calmly, and Zhu Yuyan showed no displeasure. After returning the greetings with Hou Xibai, the four of them looked towards the battlefield.

The half-mile distance was negligible to these spectators.

The open, wide plain was situated in the center of a valley, surrounded by cliffs and jagged rocks. A waterfall cascaded down the cliff face, overflowing into a clear pool, creating a turbulent spray of water. The thunderous roar of the waterfall could be heard far and wide.

Clad in white, barefoot beneath her skirt, Wanwan sat cross-legged by the lake, her eyes closed, her expression serene and peaceful. Her aura was as clear as the sky and as still as water, as if she had merged with all of nature and the universe, her tranquility revealing an unfathomable depth.

Suddenly, Wanwan moved. She shifted from a seated to a standing position, then slowly rose, completely defying the natural order.

Not far away, Anlong excitedly called out, "Brother Shi is here!"

A small black dot gradually became clear from the distance—it was none other than the "Evil King," Shi Zhixuan, who had roamed the world unchallenged. Dressed in a scholar's robe, he walked with his hands behind his back, calmly admiring the scenery. His eyes were sometimes deep, sometimes fiery, and coupled with his tall, straight figure and elegant gait, he exuded a strange aura that combined elegance and malevolence, captivating the soul.

Shi Qingxuan's slender hand involuntarily grasped Yuan Yueze's arm, trembling slightly. Through witnessing it firsthand, her enlightened sword heart also sensed the difference between Shi Zhixuan and before.

The distance of several thousand steps was traversed by Shi Zhixuan with a leisurely and swift manner, seemingly slow yet actually fast, filled with an eerie and inexplicable feeling.

Wanwan stood up completely just ten paces in front of Shi Zhixuan, then opened her beautiful eyes.

Her captivating eyes shone with a strange, clear blue light, meeting Shi Zhixuan's icy, yet intensely yearning gaze as he turned his head, seemingly having just finished admiring the surrounding scenery.

Suddenly, a strong gust of wind arose, dark clouds rolled in, and the sky darkened instantly.

The gale grew stronger and stronger, emitting a shrill howl like the wails of ghosts, whipping up dust from the mountaintops and scattering it across the plains; the clear pool's water surged like a rising tide, crashing against the lakebed with a deafening roar.

At the same moment, the space between their locked eyes suddenly caved in, forming a bottomless black hole.

A deafening "bang!" erupted, the sound filling the heavens and earth. Invisible yet tangible ripples spread through the air within a ten-foot radius.

The sandstorm dyed the entire plain a hazy, yellowish illusion. Their gazes, sharp and unaffected by any obstruction, locked in a fierce exchange, their clothes remaining perfectly still.

Wanwan's beautiful lips curved into a genuine, playful smile. She said softly, "Please, Evil King!"

Shi Zhixuan smiled and nodded, looking at his mischievous child with a wry smile, "Wan'er, don't be so polite!"

Thunder rumbled faintly from the other side of Phoenix Mountain, lightning flashing across the sky, its light flickering.

The wind intensified, instantly engulfing everything and everyone in the valley.

The voices of Wanwan and Shi Zhixuan never returned.

Even someone as powerful as Ning Daoqi couldn't pinpoint their exact location, for their boundless and limitless spiritual power seemed to have merged with the most primal and mysterious forces of the universe, becoming indistinguishable from one another.

"Boom!"

A golden beam of light pierced the clouds and struck down, unleashing a torrential downpour.

Wanwan let out a sharp cry, overpowering the thunder, and her graceful figure appeared five feet above Shi Zhixuan's head, striking down with a palm.

Shi Zhixuan stood with his hands behind his back, gazing at the sky, his eyes seemingly piercing through the dark clouds, revealing a deep sense of remembrance and sorrow, completely oblivious to his surroundings

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