A Thousand Years of Elegance Discussed in Laughter (Complete) - 14

Volume 21 The Fallen Kingdom, the Lament of the People Chapter 6 The Hentian Demonic Art

"Father!" Long Feiyun cried out and rushed towards her father...
"Hentian, you are so despicable!" Ren Xiaoyao, fearing that the five assassins would take the opportunity to attack, held his sword to protect Long Yinxiao and Long Feiyun, pointing his halberd and shouting angrily.
"Hmph, who told him not to wear the Mangcang Treading Snow Armor?" Hentian sneered, throwing himself into the battle circle of the Tianji Sect like a tiger among sheep. The two Qilin Hall members who were the first to be hit were immediately stabbed in the chest and abdomen, their lives cut short.
"Sect... Sect Leader!" The Tianji Sect members only then recovered from the shock of Long Yinxiao's serious injury and fell to the ground, and rushed towards Hentian without regard for their own safety.
"You clown, overestimating yourself!" A dark cloud hung over the sky, his eyes brimming with murderous intent. His swordplay was unpredictable and continuous, accompanied by a chilling wind. His moves flowed like clouds and water, and in the blink of an eye, the members of the Heavenly Pole Sect were dead and wounded. Only the sword formation formed by Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and others was still struggling to hold on.
Qin Huaiyu, whose martial arts were second only to Long Yinxiao in the Heavenly Pole Sect, felt a sense of awe at the chilling sword shadow before him. He decided to disregard life and death, unleashing a full-force attack aimed directly at the strongest point of the sword's momentum. He was determined to stop Hentian's offensive at all costs, creating an opportunity for his companions to kill him.
His longsword struck Hentian's agile sword blade. Even with Qin Huaiyu's solid foundation, his blood surged, his vision blurred, and he couldn't withstand the opponent's powerful force. He staggered backward, nearly rolling on the ground.
Zhang Jinghong and Liu Ningtao were shocked. Twenty years ago, during the great battle at Wuyun Mountain, Qin Huaiyu had fought Hentian alone. Although he ultimately lost, he had at least lasted eighty or ninety moves. Who would have thought that he would be defeated so easily in their first encounter twenty years later? By the same token, they thought they wouldn't stand a chance either.
Little did they know that while Chang Hentian had diligently cultivated his demonic arts and made great progress, Qin Huaiyu was no fool either. He had also made significant progress in his martial arts cultivation. Therefore, the current situation was entirely due to Qin Huaiyu's hunger and thirst, and his exhaustion
from the prolonged battle, not a true difference in their abilities. "Kill!" Qin Xiang and Zhang Feng rushed forward without regard for their own lives, their swords striking simultaneously, forming a dazzling cross that slashed down from the sky. Hentian suddenly shifted to the side, and just before the two swords were about to strike his chest, he swiftly flashed behind Liu Ningtao and unleashed a devastating attack.
Without hesitation, Liu Ningtao's longsword suddenly accelerated, shooting out like a runaway horse—the most powerful killing move from his unique, unparalleled Surging Tide Sword Technique: "Rifting Shore Tide." Anyone with slightly inferior martial arts skills in this deadly attack, even Fen Ri or Jue Yue, would feel as if they were standing alone in a vast, raging sea, facing the churning, surging waves, their limbs seemingly trapped within an inescapable aura. Even with all their might, they could barely move an inch. That agonizing feeling of knowing death was imminent yet being powerless to resist was enough to instantly shatter an opponent's mind.
Unfortunately, his opponent was Hen Tian…
Amidst Liu Ningtao's turbulent, sweeping swordplay, Hen Tian's ghostly movements and blockers were always perfectly timed, repeatedly thwarting Liu Ningtao's attacks. Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, Qin Xiang, and Zhang Feng, though eager to intervene, were unable to squeeze into the dense, boundless sword energy of the two.
Hentian burst into loud laughter, his figure shifting from nothingness to reality. A silent, hidden force, concealed by the sound of his sword slicing through the air, surged from Hentian's left palm, striking Liu Ningtao's sword directly. There was no explosive sound of clashing forces, no violent shockwave; Liu Ningtao's inner energy vanished instantly, like a stone sinking into the sea.
Liu Ningtao sensed danger and hastily withdrew his sword, only to be met with Hentian's overwhelming true power.
Unable to withstand it, Liu Ningtao was forced back several steps, his chest heaving with blood and qi. Suddenly, Hentian's left hand lashed out, another hidden force erupting from his palm like thunder, striking Liu Ningtao's "Shanzhong" acupoint on his chest. In an instant, Liu Ningtao lost control of his body, feeling the inner energy rapidly coursing through his meridians, causing nothing but fire and lightning wherever it went, wantonly destroying his flesh and blood—utterly unstoppable.
Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, Qin Xiang, and Zhang Feng arrived to provide assistance from the four directions: east, west, south, and north.
Hentian flung the heavily injured Liu Ningtao out of the battle, his eyes blazing with demonic light as he chuckled sinisterly, "You four are the first to attempt the Heavenly Demon Art in twenty years. I hope you won't disappoint me."
As soon as he finished speaking, the world seemed to freeze for a moment, then a fierce wind arose, and countless swirling vortexes of energy formed, like tangible, spinning blades slashing at them. Qin Xiang and Zhang Feng, being weaker, felt as if the space around them had caved in, trapping them in a corner, like prey caught in a spider's web, awaiting their fate. Despite their profound cultivation over dozens of years, Qin Huaiyu and Zhang Jinghong were also unable to escape the confinement of the Heavenly Demon Art. Like a sudden sandstorm in the desert, the initial bursts of powerful, ear-piercing sand transformed into an all-pervasive, seemingly tangible mass of sand and gravel, sweeping in relentlessly.
Under Hentian's deliberate manipulation, the Heavenly Demon True Qi danced wildly, blurring the outlines of the surrounding halls. The solid ground beneath their feet seemed to drift and shift like floating sand in a swamp. Had the four not experienced it firsthand, they would never have believed that such an incomparably powerful technique existed, a terrifying art that seemed inexhaustible and without limit.
Each vortex of energy that cleaved through their bodies continuously drained the four's protective true energy. As they surged one after another, anyone would mistakenly believe that the unending rage of the universe was concentrated here, completely severing their connection with the outside world. They were engulfed by the rapidly swirling energy sea, losing all autonomy and becoming puppets at the mercy of their opponent. At
this moment, Hentian was like a giant controlling the heavens and the earth, while they felt a sense of insignificance and despair at their own inadequacy. Their opponent seemed to have inexhaustible power, while they were constantly being depleted. The terrifying pressure of their power diminishing at the expense of their opponent was simply irresistible.
The furious vortex of energy attacked from all directions, surging, exploding, roaring, and howling.
Qin Xiang and Zhang Feng were the first to succumb, screaming and falling to the ground. Qin Huaiyu and Zhang Jinghong were also struggling with only their willpower.
Hentian thought he had succeeded, and his beast-like eyes shone with a wild and joyful light.
Suddenly… Hentian seemed to hear a string vibrate beside him, and the sun-drenched ground was instantly shrouded in darkness.
Hentian looked up in astonishment, staring intently, and what came into view was none other than Long Yinxiao! He stood in mid-air like a towering mountain, unshaken by wind and rain, his robes fluttering wildly, his eyes gleaming with an eerie light. Combined with the still-wet blood seeping from his eyes, ears, mouth, and nose, his appearance was utterly bizarre.
Long Yinxiao gripped the Nine Heavens Profound Sky Sword tightly, his figure continuing to rise, a chilling aura permeating the entire area. Everyone's mind conjured up the tragic image of thousands of soldiers charging into battle, rivers of blood flowing, the sun and moon obscured.
“You…you reign supreme!” Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and Liu Ningtao involuntarily cried out in shock.

Volume Twenty-One: The Fallen Empire, the Weeping People, Chapter Seven: You

Reign Supreme! The only martial arts technique in the world comparable to the legendary tales of the past, delivered with
a mere flick of the wrist. If asked who the greatest martial artist of forty years ago was, perhaps no one would know the answer.
This person was neither Dugu Yu nor the eccentric Zen Master, but Zhao Kuangyin, the founding emperor of the Song Dynasty.
To conquer four hundred prefectures with a single staff—what brilliance and martial prowess! The Taizu Long Fist and Taizu Staff Techniques may seem simple, but in his hands, they could unleash unparalleled power. Even after becoming emperor, Zhao Kuangyin remained obsessed with martial arts, finally integrating his life's work to create the technique "Reigning Supreme." However, by then he was the emperor, and had almost no opportunity to use martial arts—even if he did, it would be impossible to force him to use "Reigning Supreme." Therefore, he only passed it on to his adopted son, Long Yinxiao, to test its power on the battlefield.
In the eighth year of the Kaibao era, Zhao Kuangyin ordered Wang Quanbin, the military governor of Zhongwu, to lead an army to attack Later Shu. The army advanced with unstoppable momentum, directly threatening Chengdu. Meng Hexiao, the commander-in-chief of Later Shu's three armies and the top martial artist in the southwest, rallied his troops to defend the city. The Song army, unable to break through after a prolonged siege and running out of supplies, faced a critical moment. At this critical juncture, the eighteen-year-old Long Yinxiao, who was ordered to supervise the army, challenged Meng Hexiao alone under the pretext of retreating. He immediately unleashed the " Ruling the World" technique, shattering the renowned martial king of Sichuan into dust. The entire Shu army, terrified by his bravery, surrendered without a fight, leading to the saying, "One hundred and forty thousand men laid down their arms; not a single one was a true man."
This was the first and only time in forty years that "Ruling the World" had been used in actual combat .
Hentian was about to face its second use!
The sky darkened, the sun and moon lost their light, and the unprepared Hentian hastily channeled his Heavenly Demon True Qi to withstand the ferocious attack of "Ruling the World," instantly generating a howling gale that filled an area of several dozen feet in radius.
Hentian was torn apart by a blinding bolt of lightning, his body ripped open like tree roots. He screamed and stumbled sideways, his internal energy churning violently, his internal organs feeling as if they were being turned inside out. He had clearly suffered severe internal injuries. When he was seven zhang away, the churning stopped, and as soon as he regained his footing, he suddenly spat out a mouthful of blood,
his face turning pale, an expression of disbelief on his face. Long Yinxiao sighed to the sky, his face drained of color. He supported himself with the Nine Heavens Profound Sky Sword, remaining upright. If he hadn't been injured beforehand, this one move would have surely annihilated Hentian, this heinous demon.
Hentian gritted his teeth, his eyes flashing with ferocity, and roared furiously, "Burning Sun, Absolute Moon, kill them all! Leave no one alive!" His breathing was heavy, his hair disheveled, and the face behind the bronze mask must have been quite ugly. He had been on the verge of victory, but Long Yinxiao had severely injured him, even breaking his ultimate move that he had practiced for twenty years. His rage was beyond imagination.
"Who dares to move!" Ren Xiaoyao's blood boiled, and he blocked the five assassins with his sword, letting out a roar that could shatter clouds and split rocks. He stood proudly upright, like a god, blood slowly dripping from the blade of the Ice Soul Frost Sword, gleaming with a chilling crimson.
Under the relentless onslaught of the Dragon's Roar, Burning Sun, Absolute Moon, Soul Stealer, Soul-Slaying, and Life Chaser were already nearly exhausted. None of them dared to provoke Ren Xiaoyao again—who knew how much of his strength this kid had left? If they really went to fight him, getting slashed by the Ice Soul Frost Sword would be no joke.
Seeing the situation was bad, Zhao Yi shouted, "Brothers, charge! Ren Xiaoyao is at his last gasp, he... he can't hold on much longer." The longer it dragged on, the more panicked he became, fearing that reinforcements would arrive and ruin his dream of becoming the "Vice Leader."
Fen Ri sneered, "Hmph, if you want to charge, then charge first. I'm not going to throw my life away." From beginning to end, Zhao Yi had only stood by and watched, not making a single move. Now, however, he came to stir up trouble, so despicable and shameless that even Fen Ri couldn't stand it.
"You traitor who sold out his master for personal gain!" Long Yin Xiao slowly stepped forward, his eyes sweeping over Zhao Yi again, suddenly becoming cold and sharp as a sword. His expression changed drastically, all traces of his previous injuries and weakness vanished, and in the blink of an eye, he regained the aura of a martial arts master, exuding an incomparably chilling killing intent. His eyes were bloodshot and almost bursting, and he howled fiercely, "I'll make sure you die without a burial place!"
Zhao Yi was terrified, his expression changing drastically. He dropped his weapon and ran, but before he could take two steps, Liu Yi Jun rushed over and, with a "whoosh," stabbed him through the heart with his sword.
Zhao Yi clutched his chest and hissed, "You...you don't forget, you are also..." Before he could finish speaking, Liu Yijun kicked him away, and Zhao Yi's head lolled to the side, whereupon he breathed his last.
Hentian roared in fury, "Liu Yijun, how dare you betray me?"
Liu Yijun ignored him, took out a flaming bomb from his robes, casually tossed it into the air, and laughed loudly, "In less than the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, three thousand Imperial Guards will arrive. You all had better stay put, otherwise I won't be able to wipe you all out and atone for my crimes."
The members of the Assassins all changed color. Hentian thought that Burning Sun, Absolute Moon, Soul-Stealing, Soul-Slaying, and Life-Chasing had lost all fighting spirit, and the other assassins were in no better shape. In addition, he himself was seriously injured, and it was almost impossible to deal with Long Yinxiao and the others before the Imperial Guards arrived. He gritted his teeth and ordered, "Withdraw! Long Yinxiao, listen carefully, I will settle this score with you one day."
Soul-Stealing and Soul-Slaying helped Hentian, along with Burning Sun, Absolute Moon, and Life-Chasing, leave the square. The remaining few hundred assassins followed closely behind, and in an instant, they were all gone.
Long Yinxiao looked up into the distance, his eyes filled with sorrow as he sighed, "It's finally over... finally..." He vomited blood halfway through his sentence, his powerful body swaying precariously.
"Father, are you... are you alright?" Long Feiyun supported Long Yinxiao, asking with concern.
"Don't... don't worry, I..." Long Yinxiao said, collapsing into his daughter's arms.
"Master!" Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, Liu Ningtao, Qin Xiang, and Zhang Feng, all already exhausted, rushed forward with a surge of strength.
"Master, I am guilty, I have failed you." Liu Yijun's knees buckled, and he knelt on the ground with a thud.
"To know one's mistakes... to correct them is the greatest virtue. I... I don't blame you." Long Yinxiao gestured for Liu Yijun to stand up, and said weakly, "If you hadn't turned to the light just now, everyone present would have been doomed. You... you are not only innocent, but you have also contributed to our sect. You... you deserve to be rewarded." After saying this, he slowly closed his eyes and fainted.
"Father, you can't sleep... you can't sleep!" Long Feiyun cried out anxiously.
"Sect Leader Long!" A white-haired old man appeared as if flying through the air amidst a long howl. It was none other than Dugu Yu.
"Senior Dugu, please save Sect Leader Long." Ren Xiaoyao choked out.
Dugu Yu nodded, grasped Long Yinxiao's left hand, and continuously channeled his inner energy into it. A moment later, Long Yinxiao's eyelids fluttered, and he slowly woke up. Upon seeing Dugu Yu, his body trembled slightly, and a smile escaped from the corner of his mouth. He said
in a hoarse voice, "Dugu... Senior Dugu, what brings you here?" Dugu Yu smiled and said, "Not only me, but also Alliance Leader Liu, Master Xiaochen, Abbot Xiaoming, and Sect Leader Nangong have entered the city in half an hour and are currently heading towards Qilin Hall... Eh, what's wrong with your meridians... Have you used the Innate Supreme Qi?" As he said this, his expression changed drastically, abandoning his usual composure.
Long Yinxiao's lips twitched, and he sighed softly, "If...if it weren't for relying on the innate supreme qi, how could I have defeated Hentian...how could I have survived until now...cough cough cough..."
Dugu Yu's expression changed again, and he said in a trembling voice, "So you...you can't even rule the world..."
Long Yinxiao closed his eyes again and murmured, "It's a pity that Hentian isn't Meng Hexiao, otherwise...otherwise, I could have rid the Central Plains martial arts world of a scourge before I die."
Upon hearing this, everyone was shocked. Long Feiyun said in a trembling voice, "Father, you...you must be joking."
Dugu Yu carefully examined Long Yinxiao's injuries, his expression darkened, and he shook his head without saying a word. Long Yinxiao had severed his meridians using the secret method contained in the innate supreme qi, unleashing several times his usual power. Even if he were healed, he would be crippled. In addition, he had just been seriously injured while saving his daughter, and had also forced his inner strength to fight Hentian to the death. He was already at the point of exhaustion. Even if Hua Tuo were alive or Bian Que were reborn, he would not be able to cure him.
Tears streamed down Long Feiyun's face as she cried out and threw herself into her father's arms.
Long Yinxiao said sadly, "Feiyun, I'm so sorry, I've wasted eighteen years of your life... cough cough cough..."
Long Feiyun sobbed, "No, Father, it was Feiyun's... her own choice."
Long Yinxiao nodded with a sense of relief, gesturing for Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and Liu Ningtao to step forward, and said in a deep voice, "Listen carefully, after my death, the position of sect leader will be inherited by him!" With that, he pointed.

Everyone,

including Dugu Yu, was stunned. Long Yinxiao was pointing neither at his "beloved son" Long Feiyun, nor at Qin Huaiyu, the second-in-command of the Heavenly Pole Sect, but at the person standing beside him—Ren Xiaoyao.
Ren Xiaoyao himself couldn't believe his eyes, and exclaimed in surprise, "This junior is incompetent and shallow, how can I bear the heavy responsibility of sect leader?"
Whether influenced by Kou Zhong and Dugu Yu's true energy or not, Long Yinxiao's eyes sharpened, a blush spreading across his face. He gripped Ren Xiaoyao's hands tightly and solemnly said, "The martial arts, wisdom, character, and integrity of the dashing thief are already well-established in the martial world. The entire process of quelling the mutiny further demonstrates your exceptional military talent... cough cough cough... Besides, I believe in Ren Qiaocui, I believe in him..." Before he could finish, he coughed up another mouthful of blood.
Ren Xiaoyao knew that Long Yinxiao was experiencing a final burst of energy before death, and his heart was breaking. It was all because of his poor planning, which led him into a deadly trap, indirectly causing the current situation. Regret gnawed at his heart like a venomous snake.
Long Yinxiao forced himself to sit up and scolded in a low voice, "Why haven't you paid your respects to the new leader yet?"
Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, Liu Ningtao, Long Feiyun, Qin Xiang, and Zhang Feng immediately knelt down and bowed three times and kowtowed nine times to Ren Xiaoyao, performing the most solemn salute of the Heavenly Extreme Sect.
Ren Xiaoyao was flustered and at a loss, so he could only look to Dugu Yu for help.
Dugu Yu slowly nodded, indicating that he should agree to Long Yinxiao's request. Just as Ren Xiaoyao was about to speak, Long Yinxiao released his grip on Ren Xiaoyao's hands as if using the last of his strength, revealing a final smile, and instructed, "Remember, from today onwards, you are the master of Xunfeng City, and you are the supreme commander of the 100,000-strong Tianji Army!"
A surge of pride welled up in Ren Xiaoyao's heart, and he kowtowed three times, saying solemnly with an unprecedentedly heavy tone, "This junior respectfully obeys the Sect Master's decree and will do my utmost to glorify the Tianji Sect in the future." As he spoke, he helped up Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, Liu Ningtao, Long Feiyun, Qin Xiang, and Zhang Feng in turn.
Long Yin Xiao's gaze gradually dimmed, and he pleaded as if it were his dying words: "Senior Dugu... I beg you to take good care of the Central Plains martial arts world, and please... please don't let the scene of eighteen years ago repeat itself."
Dugu Yu agreed with tears in his eyes.
Long Yin Xiao's eyes shone with tenderness as he grabbed Ren Xiaoyao's sleeve and instructed, "The secret manual of 'Innate Supreme Qi' is hidden in a secret compartment on the third floor of the Qiande Treasure Vault. Your cultivation is still shallow, so you must not practice it on your own. But... but you must memorize the mental techniques and incantations contained within. Fei Yun... I also entrust Fei Yun's life's important matter to you. You must treat her sincerely, treat her... as..." He then tilted his head.
"Father—" Long Fei Yun wept uncontrollably.
"I wish I could sweep away the barbarians, I wish I could recover the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun!" Long Yin Xiao finished speaking and passed away peacefully.
"Master!" The members of the Heavenly Pole Sect were all heartbroken. Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and Liu Ningtao, three brothers who had followed Long Yinxiao through thick and thin for decades, were especially distraught, their clothes soaked with tears.
"Report—" Gao Hongliang, the patrol officer in charge of guarding the north gate, suddenly rode up from the end of the square and rushed to the crowd, reporting: "A large number of Liao troops have appeared thirty miles north of the city, and they are marching menacingly towards the main altar." After speaking, he suddenly caught sight of Long Yinxiao's body and the corpses of his brothers scattered across the ground. He was so shocked that he convulsed and collapsed to the ground, burying his face in his hands, barely managing to hold back his sobs.
Liu Ningtao was shocked and trembled as he said, "This... how is this possible? Xunfeng City is eight hundred miles away from the Song-Liao border. Even if the Liao army advanced at full speed, it would take them more than two or three days to arrive. Moreover, there are a large number of vassal troops stationed along the way. How could they have silently arrived at the city gates?" "
Qin Huaiyu gritted his teeth and said fiercely, "The Taiqing Tiger Tally has fallen into the hands of the Absolute Assassins. It seems they colluded with the Liao Kingdom and transferred all the garrison troops from the vassal states, which is why we only received the news now."
Zhang Jinghong asked urgently, "How many troops does the Liao army have, and what are their equipment?"
Gao Hongliang said in a hoarse voice, "According to the scouts, their numbers are around fifty to sixty thousand. The vanguard consists of shield bearers, archers, and axemen, equipped with siege weapons such as logs, ladders, and siege towers. The left and right flanks each have about ten thousand men, all of them cavalry."
Ren Xiaoyao said in a deep voice, "It seems they want to cooperate with the Absolute Assassins to take Xunfeng City in one fell swoop... Hmm, immediately order a citywide curfew and prepare to fight at any time!"
Zhang Jinghong asked for instructions, "Does the Master intend to defend the city to the death or... launch a head-on attack?"
Qin Huaiyu interrupted, "Master, let's go out and fight! I want to avenge my elder brother with my own hands!"
Qin Xiang and Zhang Feng said in unison, "The Dragon Soaring Army and the Tiger Wing Army are willing to be the vanguard!" Ren
Xiaoyao pondered and said, "Several uncles are seriously injured, and many elders in the sect have suffered unjust accusations. At this time, it is a terrible strategy to fight the Liao army head-on. In my opinion, it would be better to hold out for a few days, avoid their sharp edge, and wait for the situation in the sect to stabilize before making a move... Immediately go to the execution ground to pardon the elders in the sect, and mobilize the troops of the five halls to defend the city!"
Dugu Yu said solemnly, "With the strength of your sect, dealing with a mere 50,000 Liao soldiers is no problem. You should all return to your residences to rest first. Leave the command to Xiaoyao."
Long Feiyun said anxiously, "Absolutely not! The situation is critical now. If the news of Father's passing is leaked, the entire city's soldiers and civilians will be in a state of panic. We must find a way to delay it no matter what." "
Liu Ningtao murmured, "The matter of troop deployment is manageable, but the pardoning of the elders requires the sect leader's personal presence to be in accordance with regulations. I'm afraid..."
Ren Xiaoyao interrupted, "That's easy. I'll help Feiyun disguise herself a bit, and I guarantee no one will notice anything amiss. Then, as the sect leader, she can not only appease the elders but also go to the four gates to oversee the battle and reassure the troops."
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
Ren Xiaoyao stood atop the city wall, watching the Liao army retreat like ants, his heart filled with emotion. He exclaimed, "Today I finally understand what it means to be 'the best soldiers under heaven.' The Liao army, known as the tiger and wolf army, has no power to fight back at all, and they began to retreat in less than half an hour."
Long Feiyun said calmly, "This batch of Liao troops is just the vanguard; there are at least tens of thousands of main forces behind them." Liu Yijun laughed and said, "
Sun Tzu's Art of War says, 'The best strategy is to attack the enemy's plans; next is to disrupt their alliances; next is to attack their army; and the worst is to besiege their cities.' All strategically important cities are characterized by high walls and deep moats, making them easy to defend and difficult to attack. Therefore, even with Sun Tzu's brilliant military strategies, besieging cities was still considered a last resort. When Emperor Taizu established the dynasty, he focused on building Xunfeng City into the gateway to Guanzhong. He not only dug a moat more than nine feet deep and six zhang wide, but also constructed sturdy walls using stone slabs and glutinous rice paste, which were impervious to wooden donkeys and battering rams." After the late leader ascended the throne, he upheld the late emperor's edict and resolutely strengthened the military. Look... the city walls are covered with fortifications, corner towers stand tall, and parapets, gates, and barbicans are lined up one after another. Coupled with a sufficient number of powerful defensive weapons, let alone the Liao army's mere 50,000 troops, even if there were ten times more, they wouldn't be able to cross the line... Of course, if the assassination plot succeeds, that's another story."
Long Feiyun slowly shook her head and said in a deep voice, word by word, "What if Yelü Xiezhen were the commander-in-chief?"
Liu Yijun trembled violently and couldn't speak for a long time.

Volume 21 The Fall of the Empire and the Lament of the People Chapter 9 The Army Approaches the City

and Ren Xiaoyao's curiosity was piqued, and he asked, "Yelü Xiezhen! Is this man good at leading troops?"
Long Feiyun smiled bitterly, "Who knew he was good at leading troops... Alas, how should I put it, his status in the Liao Dynasty is even higher than my father's." This man joined the army at the age of fifteen, following the Northern Chancellor Xiao Qian in campaigns against the Wugu and Shiwei tribes. Later, he led troops westward to attack the Dangxiang and southward to resist the Liao Dynasty. During this time, he was victorious in every battle and never suffered a defeat, earning the deep trust of the Liao emperor, who appointed him to command the armies in the southwest and made him the Southern Court King. Yang Ye, the old general, was besieged by him and died by crashing into the Li Ling Stele. The Liao Dynasty's several campaigns against Liao were also thwarted by him.
Liu Yijun continued, "Twenty years ago, His Majesty personally led the army northward. Yizhou, Zhuozhou, Shunzhou, and Jizhou successively submitted, and the Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun were within reach. However, Yelü Xiezhen led troops from our rear, defending Youzhou, and together with Yelü Xiuge and Yelü Sha who came to support us, launched a pincer attack from within and without, defeating our army at the Gaoliang River, beheading more than 20,000. Our army retreated south overnight, fleeing in panic. From then on, the mere mention of Yelü Xiezhen's name terrified us."
"Hmph, Yang Laoling was taken advantage of by Yelü Xiezhen entirely because of the framing by Pan Mei and Wang Shen, which put him in a position of certain defeat; in the Battle of Gaoliang River, if it weren't for the entire army of our sect rushing to the aid of Wuyun Mountain, how could Yelü Xiezhen have won? The reason this guy is on par with the sect leader is simply because for more than ten years the sect leader has been busy with sect affairs, and it has always been the Yang family army guarding Tanyuan, otherwise... Hmph!" Zhang Feng walked up the city wall at some point, came behind the crowd, and sneered.
Ren Xiaoyao was still in astonishment when Long Feiyun explained, "All the imperial troops have fallen to Yelü Xiezhen. Even the renowned Yang family generals, who were famous throughout the border regions, could not defeat him. Only our Tianji Army has yet to fight him."
Ren Xiaoyao asked with a smile, "Brother Zhang, if you were to lead the Tiger Wing Army to fight Yelü Xiezhen alone, would you dare?"
Zhang Feng shook his head and answered truthfully, "Yelü Xiezhen personally trained 30,000 Tiger and Leopard Cavalry, the most elite cavalry force of the Liao Dynasty. Every soldier is well-trained and battle-hardened. The Tiger Wing Army has only 8,000 men. How can they possibly match him?"
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes brightened, shining brightly. He turned to Long Feiyun and said, "If I were to select 30,000 men from our sect, I wonder if we could put up a fight."
Long Feiyun shrugged indifferently and said nonchalantly, "We won't know the answer until we have a formal confrontation. But I firmly believe that the Tianji Army, which my father trained with all his heart and soul, is invincible and unconquerable."
"Report—" Just then, Gao Hongliang's booming voice, true to his name, rang out from afar.
Ren Xiaoyao and Long Feiyun were startled and turned around in astonishment.
"Master...Master!" Gao Hongliang strode up the city wall, bowed deeply, and said, "The main force of the Liao army has been discovered north of Zhongnan Mountain, numbering between 250,000 and 300,000."
Ren Xiaoyao was moved and asked, "Who is the commander?"
Gao Hongliang stammered, "Ye...Yelü Xiezhen!"
Everyone stood there stunned, speechless for a long time.
Only Ren Xiaoyao laughed heartily, causing Long Feiyun, Zhang Feng, Liu Yijun, and Gao Hongliang to exchange bewildered glances.
Long Feiyun asked in surprise, "What...are you laughing at?"
Ren Xiaoyao replied nonchalantly, "No matter who commands the Liao army in this battle, they are destined to lose. Yelü Xiezhen's illustrious reputation is about to be ruined outside Xunfeng City. Isn't that something to laugh about?"
Long Feiyun was puzzled and asked, "Even if Father were to command this battle, there's no guarantee of victory. What makes you so sure we'll win?"
Ren Xiaoyao waved his hand, signaling Gao Hongliang to continue gathering information, and explained with a smile, "The Liao army has three major weaknesses. First, they've traveled a long distance, their troops exhausted from the long march; second, they're greedy for glory and reckless, leaving unresolved threats, as the troops of various regional garrisons along the way could attack at any time." Thirdly, he abandoned his strengths and focused on the weaknesses, neglecting his forte of open field battles and turning to siege warfare. Any one of these is a cardinal sin in military strategy, yet Yelü Xiezhen committed them all.
Ren Xiaoyao took a breath and continued, "On the contrary, our army has three major advantages. First, we hold our city and have a strong defense to rely on; second, we are well-rested and our entire army is in high spirits and full of fighting spirit; third, we know ourselves and our enemy, and we will win every battle. Fei Yun, you must know Yelü Xiezhen's tactics and strategies very well, while Yelü Xiezhen may not even have heard of my name, let alone guess how I will use troops."
"Well said!" Nangong Bubai's hearty laughter rang in his ears. Ren Xiaoyao turned around and saw that it was Dugu Yu, Nangong Bubai, Xiong Xiaotian, Xiao Xingchen, Ye Zhi Qiu, and others.
"Zhuge... Mr. Zhuge!" Upon catching sight of Zhuge Wenjie beside Nangong Bubai, Ren Xiaoyao was overjoyed. His last vestiges of doubt vanished instantly. With the combined might of the Heavenly Extreme Sect's 100,000 elite troops and the brilliant strategies of "the reincarnation of Zhuge Liang," what fear was there of the Liao Dynasty mobilizing its entire army? After
exchanging greetings, Zhuge Wenjie lightly waved his feather fan, stroked his beard, and smiled, "Master Ren... your analysis of the enemy's situation is very thorough, but there's one extremely important point I haven't mentioned." He was used to being called "Xiaoyao" in the Listening Rain Pavilion, and it was hard to change his way of addressing him.
Ren Xiaoyao, knowing his wisdom and resourcefulness, immediately cupped his hands and said, "Please enlighten me, Master Zhuge."
Zhuge Wenjie narrowed his eyes, confidently stating, "Four words: A desperate army will surely win!"
He paused for a moment, then explained, "The entire city's soldiers and civilians revere Master Long as a god. Once they learn of his assassination attempt by the Liao army, they will surely be united in their hatred and filled with fighting spirit."
Liu Yijun was taken aback and said, "This... if we announce this publicly, it might cause panic among the people." Long
Feiyun said solemnly, "Of course we would announce it before the Liao army attacked the city, but now that the Liao army has been defeated, the effect of announcing it again will be completely different... Xiaoyao, just as Mr. Zhuge said, we will..." Mentioning Long Yinxiao, her expression involuntarily darkened, and tears welled up in her eyes.
Ren Xiaoyao quickly comforted her softly, called over Liu Yijun and Zhang Feng, and whispered, "Go and do it immediately... um, order the Yeting Department to make white flags and white armor overnight, and the three armies will wear mourning clothes starting tomorrow!"
Liu Yijun and Zhang Feng accepted the order and left. Ren Xiaoyao suddenly caught sight of Xiao Xingchen standing in the corner with a bitter expression on his face and asked in surprise, "Third brother, what's wrong?"
Xiong Xiaotian led him to answer, "At first, we stopped the execution at the execution ground, but Alliance Leader Liu rushed to the main altar first because he was worried about your safety. Who knew that not only did you not meet him, but Alliance Leader Liu has not returned even now."
Ren Xiaoyao exclaimed, "The Alliance Leader, he couldn't possibly be..." He stopped abruptly mid-sentence. The feud between Liu Yuxu and Juesha was long-standing, and it was easy to guess that he had encountered Hentian on the way and had chased after him recklessly. Although his martial arts were high, the enemy numbered in the hundreds, and he might not be able to handle the overwhelming odds. Long
Feiyun stopped crying and said softly, "Hentian and the five assassins are all seriously injured, and the other assassins have lost their will to fight. They fled from the south of the city before the Liao army attacked, and the soldiers guarding the city reported that they did not find anyone following them."
Xiao Xingchen felt slightly relieved, but then he saw Qin Xiang running up the city wall in a panic, shouting from afar, "Master, a corpse has been found in Yongxing Canal in the south of the city. It's... it's an old Taoist priest, and he dropped a Heaven-Destroying Token!" "

Volume Twenty-One: The Empire's Wings Broken, the People Weep, Chapter Ten: Working Together"

Everyone was shocked, and Xiao Xingchen was so frightened that he almost collapsed to the ground.
Ren Xiaoyao asked urgently, "Where is the corpse?" "
Xiang hurriedly replied, "I had the soldiers carry it over, it's right below the city wall, should we..."
Before he could finish speaking, Xiao Xingchen rushed into the passageway with a sword-like step.
Seven or eight zhang away, he could vaguely see a corpse dressed as a Taoist priest lying not far away. It was already dark, so the face wasn't clear, but the Taoist priest lying on top of the corpse was none other than Liu Yuxu's personal belongings.
Xiao Xingchen's heart jumped to his throat. He practically scrambled to the corpse's side. When he realized it wasn't Liu Yuxu lying there, he was completely exhausted, leaning weakly against the city wall, barely managing to stand.
The others who arrived later breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing this. Long Feiyun examined him briefly and pondered, "Approximately fifty or sixty years old, with a scar on his forehead, calluses on all five fingers of his left hand... This person is Master Xuanxu of Qingfeng Temple. The fatal wound is under his ribs. Judging from the condition of the wound, it should be... the Three Forms of Heavenly Annihilation!" Ren
Xiaoyao, Xiong Xiaotian, and Ye Zhiqi, knowing Long Feiyun's exceptional insight, were unsurprised that he could identify the deceased so easily. Dugu Yu, Nangong Bubai, and Zhuge Wenjie, however, were seeing this for the first time and couldn't help but doubt the veracity of his words, all turning their gazes to Xiao Xingchen.
Xiao Xingchen nodded and said in a deep voice, "This person is indeed Daoist Xuanxu. I met him once in Jiangnan. As for the wound, it must have been from Master's Heaven and Earth Harmony attack… But although Daoist Xuanxu's behavior is eccentric, he is not a heretic. Why did Master kill him?"
Long Feiyun said calmly, "Three years ago, Daoist Xuanxu secretly joined Juesha. It seems the Hentian Sect was waiting for him at the South Gate, where Alliance Leader Liu saw him and conveniently eliminated this scoundrel of the martial world."
Upon hearing this, Xiao Xingchen sighed softly, his previously relieved heart suddenly tightening again.
Xiong Xiaotian reassured him, "Xuanxu's martial arts were not weak, yet he was killed by Alliance Leader Liu in one move. This shows that the old man was not injured and did not expend too much energy. I believe he can safely return to Xunfeng City."
Ren Xiaoyao asked seriously, "Big Brother, Third Brother, have the Beggar Clan and the Thirteen Provinces Green Forest Alliance suffered any losses?"
Xiong Xiaotian laughed, "We didn't fight at the execution ground; we were just in a stalemate. As for defending the city, it wasn't our turn. To be honest, all the brothers in the Beggar Clan and the Thirteen Provinces Green Forest Alliance want to fight the enemy, but if there's anything we can do, Fourth Brother, please give us your orders."
Long Feiyun said happily, "Alright, Chief Xiong and General Ye, you can rest assured. You will be indispensable in eliminating the Liao bandits.
" Ye Zhiqiu, filled with heroic spirit, said loudly, "Good! Let's work together to fight the enemy!" "
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
Since he had not yet officially assumed the position of leader, Ren Xiaoyao could not stay at the main altar for the time being. By the time he returned to the inn after arranging many matters, it was already past midnight. Unexpectedly, Nangong Fengyi, Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, Lin Yuxiu, and Meng Ruyan were all still awake and gathered in the lobby, seemingly waiting for him.
Meng Ruyan was the first to greet him, and said with a coquettish laugh, "You brat, you're something else! Taking over as leader of the Tianji Sect at the age of twenty is unprecedented in history."
Ren Xiaoyao said sadly, "If I can keep Leader Long safe, I would rather not be the leader."
Nangong Fengzi asked in surprise, "Twenty years old? Is today Brother Xiaoyao's birthday?"
Meng Ruyan covered her mouth and said, "Of course, I originally wanted to celebrate for you, but you went out early this morning and only came back now... Oh, didn't Second Sister tell you?"
Nangong Fengzi's bright, clear eyes darted around as she leaned closer to Nangong Fengyi, playfully scolding, "Oh, sister, you didn't tell us about something so important!" Nangong
Fengyi smiled and said, "We wanted to give Xiaoyao a surprise. If we told you, it might leak out."
Nangong Fengzi pouted, clearly displeased, and said, "Hmph, you're bullying me!" Luckily, being an optimist, she had no worries at all. If it were Lin Yuxiu, she would have been crying her eyes out.
Shui Furong chuckled, "Fifth sister, even if second sister is tight-lipped, you should be able to guess what happened after seeing me busy in the kitchen for hours, preparing such a large meal." As she spoke, she gazed at Ren Xiaoyao with affection and said softly, "You came back so late, and those dishes were reheated three or four times. They definitely didn't taste as good as before. Don't blame me for not being a good cook." A warm current surged in Ren
Xiaoyao's heart. No matter how many setbacks and confusions he encountered outside, when he returned "home," his beloved women would always give him selfless and boundless love. Wasn't this warm and sweet feeling of happiness exactly what a man longed for throughout his life?
Lin Yuxiu smiled sweetly, her dimples on her jade cheeks becoming even deeper and more charming. She said playfully, "Although it's late, there's still half an hour before the hour of Chou. Let's hurry up and celebrate Big Brother's birthday." Without a word ,
the four women pulled Ren Xiaoyao to sit down. Shui Furong hurriedly ran to the kitchen to prepare the food and wine, while Nangong Fengzi and Lin Yuxiu called Ren Xiaoyao over, bombarding him with questions. To protect the reputation of the Tianji Sect, Ren Xiaoyao had already discussed with Qin Huaiyu and Zhang Jinghong the plan: to publicly declare that Long Yinxiao had been ambushed and attacked, single-handedly severely injuring Hentian and repelling the five assassins before finally dying from exhaustion. The true story would be forever lost to the tides of time.
Upon hearing this, Meng Ruyan, Nangong Fengyi, Nangong Fengzi, and Shui Furong all sighed deeply. Meng Ruyan murmured, "Father always said that Master Long was the most respected hero in his life, and he hoped to have the opportunity to meet him after returning to the Central Plains. I never expected... Alas!" Ren
Xiaoyao's heart skipped a beat. He suddenly recalled Long Yinxiao's strange words after the Tiankui Stone was activated, and he couldn't help but frown. The Dragon and Phoenix Pendants were actually the spare keys to the third level of the Qiande Treasure Vault. This was something he had never guessed. Obviously, there must be some unknown secret hidden within them, perhaps even involving the mystery of his own origins. Unfortunately, Long Yinxiao was dead, and it was likely that no one else knew the secrets behind it.
Nangong Fengyi's beautiful eyes were deep as she cautiously asked, "Xiaoyao, are you worried that if you inherit the position of sect leader, Hall Master Long will..."
Ren Xiaoyao quickly composed himself and interrupted with a smile, "Brother Long and I are as close as brothers. How could I harbor any resentment because of a mere empty title? The reason I'm so engrossed in thinking is that I'm considering how to defeat the Liao army as soon as possible." "If he were to answer truthfully, he would inevitably have to bring up the various events that occurred in the Qiande Treasury, which would make it impossible to conceal the cause of Long Yinxiao's death. Therefore, he could only lie."
Nangong Fengyi believed his explanation without a doubt. Her beautiful and refined face showed a look of reminiscence as she leisurely said, "I remember when we first met, you said that your dream was to become a chivalrous saint who would make all barbarians submit and all nations pay homage, the supreme master of the martial arts world, so that no one in the world would dare to covet the Great Song or spy on the Central Plains. Now, the perfect opportunity is right in front of you. As long as you lead the heroes to defeat the Liao army, you can not only win the respect of the 100,000 soldiers of the Tianji Sect and consolidate your position as the sect leader, but also become famous throughout the world and enhance the prestige of our Great Song. It's truly killing two birds with one stone."
Ren Xiaoyao sighed softly, "To be honest, I have no relevant experience in commanding troops. Even if I have the invincible Tianji Army under my command, I may not be truly confident in facing the nearly 400,000 soldiers of the Great Liao." "When he was on the city wall, he talked at length about the three advantages and three disadvantages, mainly to boost morale, so he spoke very confidently. In fact, when he heard Long Feiyun talk about Yelü Xiezhen's glorious battle record, he secretly thought to himself that he should never run into him. When he learned that he was about to face this invincible Liao army war god, he couldn't help but feel a little flustered. Fortunately, Zhuge Wenjie's words of 'a desperate army will surely win' dispelled most of his doubts, so he continued to maintain his high morale.
Lin Yuxiu revealed a naive and innocent smile, her charming and coquettish demeanor inadvertently becoming more and more apparent. She wrinkled her nose and said, 'Just winning isn't enough. At least we have to cut off the Liao army commander's stinking head and hang it on the city wall for everyone to see—let them know that our Great Song is not easy to bully.'"
The women exchanged knowing smiles, and Ren Xiaoyao chuckled in response. Little did he know that the next three days would be a nightmare he would never forget. ( Volume

21: The Fall of the Empire, Chapter 11: Blood Fever)

Soon, Shui Furong returned to the hall with steaming dishes and wine. Ren Xiaoyao, accompanied by the four women, drank heartily. Meng Ruyan, seizing every opportunity, repeatedly hinted that he should arrange for her to get close to Long Feiyun. Ren Xiaoyao vaguely agreed, secretly overjoyed, imagining the astonished expression on his senior sister's face when she found out Long Feiyun was a woman.
When it was almost time, Meng Ruyan discreetly returned to the private room, creating space for them to express their feelings.
Nangong Fengyi raised her beautiful face and said softly, "I heard the battle at Qilin Hall was extremely fierce. Vice Leaders Qin and Zhang, Hall Master Liu, and others were all seriously injured. You wouldn't have...you wouldn't have...and kept it from us, would you?"
Ren Xiaoyao chuckled meaningfully, "Hehe, what part of my body do you think I need to deliberately conceal when I'm injured?" Nangong
Fengyi was slightly taken aback, then realized the implication in Ren Xiaoyao's words and lowered her head in embarrassment.
Ren Xiaoyao laughed heartily, "Whether it's Flying Immortal Transformation, the Carefree Limitless Palm, or the Soaring Sky Sword Technique, they can all unleash unexpected and tremendous power when outnumbered. I'm not bragging, but even if the five great assassins attacked together, it wouldn't be so easy to leave a scar on me."
Lin Yuxiu gently stroked her breasts and let out a long sigh, "Hearing Big Brother speak so confidently, Xiuxiu is finally relieved."
Ren Xiaoyao showed a moved expression and said solemnly, "Tomorrow, Miss Liu will take you to move to the main altar. For the time being... well, you'll all stay in the Taiji Hall. Remember, during the Liao army's siege, you must not go out casually." "
Nangong Fengzi pouted, "No...no, I want to go to the North Gate to watch the battle. I've never seen a war before, and it's such a rare opportunity to witness it firsthand. It would be a shame to miss it."
Shui Furong raised her eyebrows proudly and said, "With the Heaven-Defying Palm technique my master taught me, dealing with a hundred or so Liao dogs is a piece of cake...Don't worry, silly, I won't hold you back."
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes shone brightly as he slowly said, "If I hadn't yet become the leader, I would naturally let you have your way. But... the concubines of Emperor Taizong are another matter, and even the wife of the Dragon Sect Leader has never personally attended the battlefield. You are, after all, my future wives, so you should at least have the demeanor of a mother... like those in Xunfeng City. If you're always shouting for battle, that would be terrible."
Hearing Ren Xiaoyao mention "future wives," the four women were overjoyed and nodded hastily in agreement.
"Dong—dong—" At this moment, the sound of the night watchman's drum came from outside the window.
"Oh, time to sleep." Ren Xiaoyao casually mentioned this, and the four women blushed in unison, each knowing what was about to happen.
It wasn't that Ren Xiaoyao didn't want to share the four women with him, but he had to command the battle the next morning, and getting up late would truly be letting down Long Yinxiao's dying wish. He could only look out the window and mutter to himself, "One...one..."
The four women exchanged glances, quickly understanding Ren Xiaoyao's predicament. After a moment of discussion, they pushed Nangong Fengzi in front of him.
Ren Xiaoyao, confused, scratched his head and asked, "Why Fengzi?"
Nangong Fengyi's beautiful eyes darted around, giving Ren Xiaoyao a meaningful look, as if scolding him for being hypocritical after getting the better deal. Ren Xiaoyao feigned sincerity, casually pulling Nangong Fengzi into his arms and nibbling her earlobe, saying, "Baby, tell me the reason, okay?"
Nangong Fengzi, unable to resist, revealed her girlish shyness, lowering her head to avoid his burning gaze, and softly uttered, "Sisters...the sisters said they didn't know about your birthday, so tonight...tonight they're giving you to me as...a small compensation." Her alluring charm stirred Ren Xiaoyao's desire, and he teased, "Giving you away? Am I a commodity?"
Nangong Fengzi blushed with embarrassment, stammering, "I...I didn't...really...oh dear, I don't know how to explain this."
Shui Furong couldn't help but let out a melodious, bell-like laugh, covering her mouth and glaring at Ren Xiaoyao. "Hmph, if you're going to flirt, go back to your room. Don't make such a racket and disturb our chat." Ren
Xiaoyao chuckled, picked up Nangong Fengzi, and pushed open the door to leave.
Shui Furong lightly stamped her foot, pouting and complaining, "You...you really went? You idiot, you're such a complete idiot!" Back in the guest room, Nangong Fengzi's body was burning hot. In the darkness
,
Ren Xiaoyao closed the door. Turning back, Nangong Fengzi eagerly offered him a kiss, nestled softly in his arms. The two groped their way into the inner room. Through the thin silk robe, Ren Xiaoyao could clearly feel her exquisite curves. Nangong Fengzi's occasional movements in his arms only fueled his passion.
Ren Xiaoyao quietly unbuttoned her robe, his hands slipping inside Nangong Fengzi's firm breasts. Nangong Fengzi involuntarily flinched, but Ren Xiaoyao pressed her down onto the bed.
"Brother Xiaoyao, slowly...slowly." "Nangong Fengzi lightly spat, but her arms wrapped around Ren Xiaoyao's neck. Her firm, elastic buttocks pressed against the bottom of his abdomen, instantly igniting his already burgeoning desire.
Ren Xiaoyao gently removed Nangong Fengzi's clothes, then wrapped his arms around her slender, soft waist, holding her delicate, boneless, and naked body tightly. He rubbed and kneaded her body wildly, then kissed her delicate eyebrows and cherry lips, forcing open her shyly closed teeth. He then enveloped her fragrant, tender, and adorable tongue, sucking and licking it wildly. Nangong Fengzi's body swayed, trembling slightly, her breathing becoming increasingly rapid, clearly indicating that she had begun to arouse herself."
Ren Xiaoyao's lips slid down, kissing Nangong Fengzi's tender, delicate, and adorable rosy nipples. He gently licked and sucked, kissing the left side, then the right, continuing his caresses and teasing along her smooth, white skin. Nangong Fengzi involuntarily let out soft moans, her voice sweet and alluring, captivating to the bone.
Ren Xiaoyao's hands suddenly grasped Nangong Fengzi's tender, unripe breasts, simultaneously kissing her warm inner thighs. Nangong Fengzi felt both shy and itchy; her body went limp under Ren Xiaoyao's wanton caresses, wave after wave of carnal desire surging through her. Her delicate, adorable nose involuntarily rose and fell with breath, her warm, snow-white flesh writhing gently. Trembling, her beautiful, dazzling snow-white buttocks rose and fell subtly with the movements of Ren Xiaoyao's head. Her slender, jade-like legs, like vines, wrapped around Ren Xiaoyao's body, her lower body shyly parting further and further, as if hoping Ren Xiaoyao would kiss her deeper.
Ren Xiaoyao used all his charms to tease Nangong Fengzi, causing her body to tremble slightly, her delicate nose emitting soft moans. If her clitoris were aroused, one could see her eyelashes fluttering, her beautiful eyes glazed, her cheeks flushed red like fire, the last shred of reason completely overwhelmed by the intoxicating, carnal pleasure.
Nangong Fengzi's lower body gradually became wet, and Ren Xiaoyao suddenly raised his head, sealing her luscious lips with a wet kiss. Gong Fengzi's lips parted slightly, her tender, smooth tongue passionately entwining and swirling with his… responding fervently to each of her lover's advances.

Volume Twenty-One: The Fallen Empire, the Crying of the People, Chapter Twelve: The Liao Army's Night Raid

. Nangong Fengzi's delicate cries and wanton moans echoed endlessly in the spring-filled inner chamber. Under Ren Xiaoyao's relentless multi-pronged assault, she felt her heart float on clouds, gently rising…unaware of where it would drift.
Ren Xiaoyao, unconsciously aroused by Nangong Fengzi's soft, jade-like hands, couldn't help but lift her gracefully curved chin, whispering in her ear, "Baby, I'm coming."
Nangong Fengzi suddenly felt a hot, burning male organ pressing tightly against her scorching, soft lower abdomen. She murmured, half-heartedly resisting, "No...no...don't stop..." Just as Ren
Xiaoyao was about to exert his full strength, a sudden blast of drums and horns sounded outside the window, and faint shouts of battle could be heard in the distance.
Ren Xiaoyao was terrified and stamped his foot, exclaiming, "Oh no! The Liao army has launched a night attack!" Without hesitation, Nangong Fengzi, completely naked, grabbed her clothes and leaped out of the window, rushing towards the inn's entrance.
Nangong Fengzi cried out urgently, "Brother Xiaoyao, you..." Before she could finish speaking, Ren Xiaoyao had already disappeared into the night.
Along the way, followers were seen rushing to provide reinforcements. The Dingnan and Xiongwu armies successively dispatched thousands of troops to the North Gate. Soldiers belonging to the military equipment battalion were using carts to transport boulders, arrows, and other essential tools for nighttime city defense. The Heroines Army, responsible for logistical support, continuously sent wounded soldiers to the medical clinic for treatment. All work was carried out in an orderly manner. Despite the urgency, there was no sign of panic, demonstrating that the Tianji Sect was well-trained and had extremely rich combat experience, truly deserving of the title of an invincible army.
Gao Hongliang was originally only responsible for the night guard, but when Ren Xiaoyao arrived, he found Zhu Shunwu and Liu Qingping supervising the battle from the city wall. The two were leading from the front, personally directing their troops in a fierce battle with the Liao army, completely unaware that the new sect leader was rushing towards the city wall.
The attacking Liao army, like swarms of ants oblivious to their own fate, charged towards the city walls with loud shouts. The moat was over nine feet deep and six zhang wide. Under the dense rain of arrows, few Liao soldiers managed to reach the walls. The Tianji army launched a powerful counterattack with lime, chaff, boiling oil, and stones, annihilating the enemy attempting to scale the walls beside the moat and utterly shattering their hopes of breaching the city.
Ren Xiaoyao charged forward with a sword step, grabbed his bow and arrows, and unleashed a rapid-fire barrage of arrows, shooting several Liao officers directing the attack from afar. Zhu Shunwu, Liu Qingping, and Gao Hongliang then realized that their leader had arrived in person and stepped forward to pay their respects. Ren Xiaoyao quickly helped the three of them up and inquired about the situation of the city's defenses. Gao Hongliang solemnly replied, "About half an hour ago, the Liao army suddenly launched a night attack with a force of approximately eight to thirteen thousand men. According to my analysis, it was likely a probing attack. Once they found our defenses to be solid and there was no opening, they will quickly retreat."
Ren Xiaoyao turned to Zhu Shunwu and Liu Qingping and said casually, "Why aren't you two leaders resting at home? The Liao army's vanguard is more than enough to be handled by Brother Gao." He treated people with sincerity, always addressing any cult members who were not much older than him as "brother" or "older brother," without putting on any airs of a cult leader.
Zhu Shunwu said solemnly, "Yelü Xiezhen is extremely skilled in warfare and often launches attacks under unexpected circumstances. We cannot relax at any moment when fighting him. Since Second Brother and the others are injured, Sixth Brother and I will have to work harder." He and Liu Qingping had fallen into a deadly trap and almost executed a large number of elders in the sect. They felt extremely guilty and wished they could personally go into battle to kill the enemy and make up for their past mistakes.
Liu Qingping interjected, "We've got this place under our guard, it's absolutely secure. The east, south, and west gates are all ready. Leader, you should go back and rest early to prepare for tomorrow's battle."
Ren Xiaoyao shook his head, "No, I'm the leader, it's my duty to be hands-on and take the lead in everything. How can I watch my brothers fight through the night while I indulge in comfort?" To be honest, on the way to the north gate, he had cursed Yelü Xiezhen for choosing this moment to attack, ruining his and Nangong Fengzi's time together. He had planned to defeat the Liao army as soon as possible so he could go back and continue to enjoy her sweet words and flattery. But seeing his soldiers fighting bloody battles and bravely resisting the Liao army, his burning desires had long been forgotten.
Zhu Shunwu frankly admitted, "Although the leader is young and heroic, the events of a few hours ago have left him somewhat exhausted, so..."
Ren Xiaoyao interrupted with a smile, "Don't worry, Hall Master Zhu, I can still manage the slight depletion of my internal energy."
Liu Qingping's expression turned solemn, and he said in a deep voice, "Master, you are wise. My fifth brother and I urge you to rest early not for your health, but for the grand cause of protecting our country. Tomorrow, Yelü Xiezhen will personally lead a large army to the city. As the newly enthroned leader, you will naturally lead the elite of the five halls to confront him head-on. At that time, your every word and action will become a model for hundreds of thousands of soldiers and civilians in the city. As your subordinate, Zhu..." "Master of the Sparrow Hall, it is my responsibility and obligation to ensure that you, the leader, are in the best possible condition for the upcoming life-
or-death battle." Ren Xiaoyao was taken aback. Indeed, the 400,000 Liao troops were launching a fierce attack on Xunfeng City. The first battlefield meeting between the two commanders was of paramount importance. If he could display a demeanor and bearing no less impressive than Long Yinxiao's, the morale of the Tianji Army would be greatly boosted. The enemy's plan to take advantage of Long Yinxiao's recent death and the lack of leadership in the Tianji Sect to conquer Xunfeng City in one fell swoop would be thwarted, and their morale would be low. Conversely, if he appeared listless and sleepy, giving the impression of being tired and defeated, the consequences would be unimaginable.
Thinking of this, he couldn't help but break out in a cold sweat. Just as Long Yinxiao had said on his deathbed, from this day forward, he was the master of Xunfeng City and the supreme commander of the 100,000 Tianji Army. He could not act impulsively, do as he had in the past, or be self-righteous. He had to consider the interests of the entire Tianji Sect.
Seeing Ren Xiaoyao remain silent, Zhu Shunwu respectfully said, "Please consider the overall situation, Master, and retire for the time being."
The soldiers knelt on the ground and loudly proclaimed, "Please reconsider, Master."
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes gleamed brightly, his back straight and shoulders broad, and he cupped his hands, saying, "Very well, the city defense is entrusted to you all!"
The three armies responded in unison, "Rest assured, Master, we swear to protect the headquarters to the death!"
Ren Xiaoyao turned and left, thinking that Fengzi probably hadn't slept yet. He figured that if she stayed up for an hour or two before resting, it wouldn't affect her energy tomorrow.

(Volume 21: The Fall of the Empire, Chapter 13: A Heart Full of Love

and Pity) Back at the inn, the bedroom was indeed lit. Ren Xiaoyao smiled happily, pushed open the door, and saw Nangong Fengzi sitting with her back to him. In the dim candlelight, she appeared even more alluring and captivating, her melancholic and wistful expression making her breathtakingly beautiful.
Nangong Fengzi glared at him fiercely, her cherry lips parted slightly as she slowly said, "Where have you been? Making me sit here waiting... Humph, if you don't explain yourself clearly, don't expect me to... to keep you company..."
Ren Xiaoyao stroked her blushing, hot face, his fingertips gently brushing her rounded earlobe, and said softly, "What do you want me to do? Hmm... Tell me," he wouldn't be foolish enough to bring up the Liao army's night raid, needlessly making Nangong Fengzi worry.
Nangong Fengzi's cheeks flushed instantly, and she stammered, "It's... it's that... Oh... I won't say anymore, you... you come quickly..." Her heart was suddenly stirred, and she immediately forgot that she had said she wanted Ren Xiaoyao to explain.
Ren Xiaoyao pulled up a corner of the embroidered quilt, immediately revealing Nangong Fengzi's fair and delicate skin. Her figure was perfect; her alluring body, which should have been completely naked, was only covered by a light pink bodice. Her two long, slender, and crystal-clear legs were deliberately brought together, further arousing the most primal desires in Ren Xiaoyao's heart.
Ren Xiaoyao grasped Nangong Fengzi's soft hand and gently pulled her. Nangong Fengzi let out a soft cry, her soft and fragrant body enveloped in her lover's embrace. Their skin rubbed against each other, and they were about to become one.
"Boom! Boom! Boom!" Suddenly, the war drums roared in the distance, more intense than before. Clearly, the Liao army had launched another attack on the city, and the battle was becoming increasingly fierce.
Ren Xiaoyao was greatly surprised, and his movements involuntarily stopped. If the Liao army's first surprise attack was to try their luck and see if Xunfeng City was prepared, then what was the purpose of this second attack? To break through the city's defenses? Dream on! Using it to intimidate the people? Wishful thinking!
Nangong Fengzi whispered reproachfully, "Brother Xiaoyao, don't worry about it. All those warning sounds are just a hoax. Let's do our thing... Come on... Come on... I can't wait any longer."
Ren Xiaoyao was startled. Undoubtedly, the entire city's soldiers and civilians were complacent. The first time they heard the war drums, they might rush to the north gate to provide support, but upon discovering the Liao army was merely conducting a small-scale probe, they would immediately return to their lodgings. The second time the drums sounded, everyone would assume the Liao army was using the same old trick, and there was no need to worry. Instead, they would relax. Yelü Xiezhen was exploiting this complacency to launch a general attack!
Thinking of this, Ren Xiaoyao dared not linger, abruptly throwing off the covers and rushing out.
Nangong Fengzi lay blankly on the fragrant couch, her heart filled with anxiety and turmoil, yet she didn't know what to say.
As he had expected, the city's residents were not as tense as they had initially been. Most households even kept their doors and windows tightly shut, seemingly oblivious to the blaring alarms. Only two battalions of soldiers, about to change shifts, were sent to provide support. The shouts of battle grew increasingly fierce. Ren Xiaoyao wished he could sprout wings and rush to the city wall immediately.
Rounding a corner, a large contingent of soldiers suddenly appeared ahead—it was none other than Zhang Feng's Tiger Wing Army.
Seeing Ren Xiaoyao arrive so swiftly, Zhang Feng dismounted and reported, "Master! The Liao army has launched another night attack. I am worried that the garrison in the north city will not be able to handle it, so I have led my troops to assist."
Ren Xiaoyao felt slightly relieved. Before he could speak, Long Feiyun, Zhang Jinghong, and Qin Tianyu each led three to five thousand men, rushing in from the four intersections. It seemed that all the more intelligent leaders of the Fantianji Sect had already seen through Yelü Xiezhen's scheme.
The battle raged fiercely, with shouts of battle filling the air. The Liao army launched a full-scale assault on the city gates. The Tianji Army, outnumbered, struggled to defend every point and was easily overtaken by the Liao forces who crossed the moat and began scaling the city walls. Zhu Shunwu, Liu Qingping, and Gao Hongliang, seeing the dire situation, grabbed their weapons and joined the fray. Although the three were skilled warriors, the Liao army below the walls was growing ever larger, and they were on the verge of collapse.
At this critical moment, reinforcements arrived. Nearly 20,000 well-equipped fresh troops, under the command of Ren Xiaoyao, launched a full-scale counterattack. A large number of archers from the Qilin Hall and Baihu Hall firmly occupied the battlements, raining down arrows upon the Liao army. The remaining soldiers either carried defensive equipment or hurled rolling logs and stones, causing the Liao army to flee in disarray, their armor and weapons scattered, and within moments, they began a full-scale retreat.
At that time, Qin Huaiyu and his son had already led their troops to the scene. Ren Xiaoyao immediately ordered the Longxiang and Huyi armies to pursue them out of the city, repeatedly instructing them to only pursue for five li and not to be greedy for merit or advance rashly. He also left five thousand soldiers to garrison at the north gate before ordering the rest of the troops to disperse. Qin Huaiyu and Zhang Jinghong, whose injuries had not yet healed, returned to their residences to recuperate upon seeing the Liao army's defeat. Long Feiyun, being a woman and bearing the pain of losing her father, also returned to Qilin Hall after Ren Xiaoyao's earnest persuasion.
After arranging everything, Ren Xiaoyao dragged his weary body away from the north city. On the way, he kept thinking about how to explain things to Nangong Fengzi later. Telling the truth would go against his original intention, and lying might not be believed. Sigh... Women feel lonely when they don't have one, but find it troublesome when they do.
Hesitating, it was already past midnight. Ren Xiaoyao could only hope that Nangong Fengzi would succumb to sleepiness and fall asleep first, so that the battle would be over by tomorrow morning. Unexpectedly, upon entering the inn, he looked up and saw that the lamp was still burning in the room. He inwardly groaned, thinking that this night was likely to be troublesome.
Ren Xiaoyao quietly entered and found that Nangong Fengzi had already changed her clothes, sleepily slumped over the table. Feeling extremely embarrassed, he scratched his head and softly said, "Fengzi, you...you're still not asleep?"
Surprisingly, Nangong Fengzi didn't complain at all. She rested her elbow on the table, propped her cheek on her hand, and said softly, "Brother Xiaoyao, can't you stay with me for one more night?"
Seeing her plaintive words and sorrowful tone, Ren Xiaoyao felt a surge of tenderness and affection. He suddenly grasped Nangong Fengzi's soft, warm hand. With a solemn expression, she said, her soft, moist hand in a serious tone, "I promise, I won't leave again tonight."
Nangong Fengzi leaned in and lightly kissed his cheek, her soft, fragrant red lips captivating Ren Xiaoyao. He then pulled away slightly, their faces only inches apart, and whispered in a sweet, orchid-like voice, "Really? You can't lie to me, okay?"
Ren Xiaoyao laughed, "Hehe, when have I ever gone back on my word?" With that, he suddenly pulled Nangong Fengzi into his arms and walked towards the bed with a chuckle. "

Volume 21: The Fall of the Empire, the Lament of the People, Chapter 14: Burning Passion.

Nangong Fengzi's heart trembled, her eyes filled with allure. Ren Xiaoyao's passion surged, and he kissed her slightly parted cherry lips passionately, his tongue intertwining tightly with her delicate tongue. He felt the soft, smooth touch, and the fragrant scent, like orchids and musk, ignited his burning desire. After removing Nangong Fengzi's outer garment, he mischievously used his teeth to bite open the sash of her undergarment. His left hand grasped her round, firm breasts, kneading and caressing them, while his right hand gradually slid down her burning lower abdomen, moving towards..." His fingers first gently caressed the bottom of her thighs, then his thumb lightly and forcefully pinched and rubbed her sensitive areas.
Under Ren Xiaoyao's vigorous teasing, Nangong Fengzi panted heavily, occasionally sticking out her small, fragrant tongue to lick her slightly parted cherry lips, as if she were extremely thirsty. Her flushed skin was covered with fine beads of sweat, making it appear even more translucent like jade. Her slender waist swayed like a snake, responding to his caresses. Her shapely, straight, long legs slowly opened and closed, seemingly still enjoying the pleasure of sexual release, expressing endless satisfaction.
"Ah... I can't take it anymore..." Nangong Fengzi couldn't help but let out a soft, sweet moan. A wonderful sensation of tingling, itching, sourness, and numbness instantly coursed through her body. All restraint and reason vanished, leaving only the body's pursuit and desire for passion.
Ren Xiaoyao pressed his lips to her delicate ear, gently blowing on it, then licked the earlobe with his tongue. His other hand moved from Nangong Fengzi's lower body, glistening with moisture, and quietly climbed up her breasts. Nangong Fengzi felt the intense stimulation from before subside slightly, and her tender nipples immediately began to stir, like two strings playing a passionate, unrestrained, generous, and stirring melody, shaking every nerve in her body.
Ren Xiaoyao lifted Nangong Fengzi's jade-like buttocks and entered her body in the most intense way.
"Ah..." Nangong Fengzi instantly lost control, almost screaming. The intimate caressing of her breasts had already caught her off guard, let alone such a direct action. She involuntarily tensed her body, clenching her teeth. Her already turbulent internal organs quickly erupted into a storm.
Ren Xiaoyao's blood boiled, reveling in Nangong Fengzi's curvaceous, boneless, snow-white body. Nangong Fengzi swayed her hips up and down, actively cooperating with her lover's full-force thrusts.
Perhaps due to the two previous disturbances, or perhaps because of the midday fight... Exhausted, Ren Xiaoyao was completely overwhelmed after only half an hour, surrendering himself to Nangong Fengzi—releasing his scalding life essence into her body. Nangong Fengzi, already exhausted and with the afterglow of her orgasm lingering, didn't blame Ren Xiaoyao for his lack of stamina. Her beautiful eyes were closed, her delicate nose flaring with breath, her snow-white hands tightly embracing her lover's broad, strong back, refusing to loosen their grip even slightly. Even
after their lovemaking, the languid and powerless beauty remained as alluring as ever. The thin sheets couldn't conceal her exquisitely curvaceous body, and Ren Xiaoyao's appetite surged, ready to regroup... As they launched another attack, faint shouts of battle echoed from outside the window.
Ren Xiaoyao was puzzled. Yelü Xiezhen, a powerful figure in the Liao Dynasty, was not a reckless and impetuous man. Why was he launching repeated night raids tonight, determined to capture Xunfeng City before dawn? Judging by the time, Qin Xiang and Zhang Feng should have just returned from pursuing the Liao troops. Combined with the garrison in the north and the five thousand soldiers specially reserved, the city's defenses were impregnable, but unless there were any obvious errors in command, even Yelü Xiezhen, with his extraordinary cunning, would have no chance of success.
Since there was no need to worry about the city's defenses, Ren Xiaoyao's thoughts naturally turned to Nangong Fengzi . He secretly imagined what a moving scene it would be to fully enjoy his lover's complete devotion amidst the impending storm, savoring her soft moans and gasps while the sounds of passion raged around him.
Completely intoxicated, Ren Xiaoyao kissed Nangong Fengzi's fragrant lips again, pressing her half-heartedly against him beneath him. Just as a passionate storm was about to begin, a sudden sense of foreboding washed over him, and the burning desire that had filled his body vanished instantly.
Seeing him stop abruptly, Nangong Fengzi parted her cherry lips and murmured, "Brother Xiaoyao, come on... hurry." "
With the beautiful woman in his arms pleading softly, Ren Xiaoyao immediately forgot everything else and focused all his attention on preparing for the impending storm. Unexpectedly, as soon as he gathered his inner energy, his senses instantly sharpened. Before even sinking into Nangong Fengzi's fiery body, he keenly sensed that the sound of war drums wasn't coming from the north gate. It seemed that fighting was taking place near the southeast, west, and south gates, with the south gate being the most intense.
Ren Xiaoyao was quite surprised. The Liao army's vanguard numbered only 50,000. Dispersing their forces to attack all four gates simultaneously offered no chance of victory. Had Yelü Xiezhen made a foolish mistake, devising such a despicable tactic that would send his soldiers to their deaths? Had his judgment been flawed? Impossible. He had honed his ability to discern the sounds of war since childhood..." Such a chaotic battle couldn't possibly be escalating to the point of confusion. So what was Yelü Xiezhen's strange behavior really about? The four gates of Xunfeng City were guarded by the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise Halls, each independent of the others. Attacking the southeast, west, and north gates to weaken the forces defending the north gate would be a recipe for disaster.
If the Liao army's commander wasn't the invincible Yelü Xiezhen, Ren Xiaoyao would have readily ignored the situation outside the window and continued his "unfinished business" with Nangong Fengzi. But… Ren Xiaoyao was almost certain Yelü Xiezhen had a trick up his sleeve. He had no choice; as the leader of the Tianji Sect, both for personal and professional reasons, he had to personally command the battle at the front lines to prevent the entire city's soldiers and civilians from falling into the Liao army's trap.
"Feng… Fengzi, you go to sleep first. I… I'll go rescue her." Ren Xiaoyao gritted his teeth, reluctantly breaking his promise. He hurriedly dressed, grabbed his Ice Soul Frost Sword, and rushed out.
Reaching the South Gate, where the shouts of battle were loudest, Ren Xiaoyao sensed something amiss. Almost all the White Tiger Hall members stationed there were fighting on the city walls. Even the city patrol envoys, Liu Jinzhong and Qu Chuming, had abandoned their command posts, rolling up their sleeves and hurling boulders down like ordinary soldiers.
Ren Xiaoyao swiftly used his Flying Immortal Transformation technique, leaping onto the city wall in a single bound.
The scene before him stunned him!

(Volume 21: The Fall of the Empire, Chapter 15: A Playboy 's Mischief

) Torches flickered outside the city, illuminating the mountains... The fields were filled with Liao soldiers. As far as the eye could see, the enemy's military might was overwhelming, their banners like a sea of stars, eclipsing even the stars and moon in the sky.
Who could have imagined that the two attacks the Liao army discovered at the north city were merely a ruse, designed to draw the main force of the Tianji Army away from the south gate, making them lower their guard. Even if the battle broke out again, they wouldn't think to come to the south gate to provide support, while simultaneously concealing the true movements of the main army. They would then launch a surprise general offensive at the south gate, capturing Xunfeng City in one fell swoop!
What a brilliant strategist Yelü Xiezhen! Truly a master strategist!
The bugles sounded, the war drums beat, and the weapons gleamed under the moonlight, adding to the atmosphere of fierce battle.
The vanguard consisted of shield bearers, archers, swordsmen, and fortification soldiers, equipped with essential siege tools such as siege towers, ladders, and siege wagons. The left and right flanks were manned by uniformly heavily armored soldiers, while two pairs of cavalrymen formed the rear of the central army, serving both to defend the rear and as reinforcements for a sweeping attack after the city fell. The total number was approximately 30,000.
The south gate garrison, numbering only 3,000, could hardly withstand an enemy force ten times their size. From the moment Ren Xiaoyao heard the battle cries until they reached the city walls, within the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, the enemy had broken through the first line of defense and launched a fierce attack on the city walls.
The siege wagons began to advance, moving towards them like towering structures. Fortunately, the moat prevented the wagons from getting close. The Liao soldiers atop the wagons, though roughly the same height as those on the walls, could only fire their bows from a distance of seven or eight zhang (approximately 33-40 meters). Furthermore, due to the limited platform area, their numbers were restricted to around fifty, posing little threat to the defenders.
More and more Liao soldiers began scaling the city walls, their shouts echoing throughout the city, causing the atmosphere outside Xunfeng City to change color.
Ren Xiaoyao gathered all his strength, raised his Ice Soul Frost Sword, and roared, "Soldiers, reinforcements are coming soon! Kill!" His powerful voice carried far and wide, clearly audible even amidst the carnage.
The White Tiger Hall followers, terrified by the enemy's systematic and organized large-scale attack, were greatly encouraged by the shout. They gritted their teeth, held their positions, and desperately resisted the enemy's onslaught.
Arrows rained down like locusts, clashing inside and outside the city, darkening the sky and obscuring the moon and stars, adding to the number of souls lost in this merciless war. Ignoring the rain of arrows, Ren Xiaoyao led from the front, directing his troops to hurle giant logs and pour oil on their crossbows. Liao soldiers climbing the ladders tumbled down, screaming and crying out in agony, countless dead and wounded.
The disadvantage gradually turned around. Suddenly, the Liao army launched more than ten catapults, hurling massive boulders coated in oil high into the air, flying towards the city wall like meteors. The boulders either struck the wall or flew onto the battlements. Where the boulders landed, more than a hundred archers who couldn't dodge were instantly crushed into mincemeat. Soldiers who were slower to react had their clothes set on fire, rolling on the ground and screaming in agony—a truly gruesome sight.
Ren Xiaoyao urgently ordered Liu Jinzhong to lead his men to push the "thousand-pound crossbows" to the parapet and aim at the Liao army's catapults to begin firing. The "thousand-pound crossbows," mounted on large wooden carts, were over seven feet long and required three soldiers to operate them properly. One was responsible for holding the crossbow steady, another for assembling the special three-pronged bolt, and the third had to use both feet to hold down the trigger mechanism, using all his strength to cock the bowstring. Finally, the sinew-woven string was pushed out of the hook, completing the entire attack sequence.
With a deafening "whoosh," the three-edged crossbow bolt struck the enemy catapult with lightning speed, hitting it squarely. Seven or eight soldiers emerged from behind the catapult and crashed to the ground, clearly dead.
Almost simultaneously, the remaining catapults were also struck by three-edged crossbow bolts, each about five inches thick and ten feet long, crafted entirely of high-quality steel. Each bolt shattered the catapult, demonstrating the immense power and penetrating force of the "Thousand-Jin Crossbow."
Liu Jinzhong shouted, and the soldiers nocked their giant arrows and fired again. The catapults were too large and extremely heavy targets to move or dodge quickly, and in the blink of an eye, they were all destroyed. The Liao army's offensive slowed slightly, and the army medics hurriedly carried the wounded soldiers to the city walls to treat their injuries.
Unexpectedly, dozens of catapults appeared ahead in a short time, raining down massive stones on the city walls. The Tianji Army couldn't react in time; most of their "Thousand-Jun Crossbows" were destroyed instantly, and the power of their triangular crossbow attacks gradually weakened.
The Liao army sounded their horns, and twelve thousand archers simultaneously advanced, divided into three groups taking turns firing arrows, drawing their crossbows, and firing. One platoon finished firing, another platoon moved in, and so on, without end. The thick city walls completely lost their defensive function, and the Tianji Army's defensive forces on the walls instantly became sitting ducks, falling dead from arrows. As for the powerful "Thousand-Jun Crossbows," some were shattered by stones, others were destroyed by fire arrows, leaving only five still holding out. In haste,
two battalions of the White Tiger Hall arrived to provide support, but it was too late to stop the large number of Liao soldiers from scaling the walls. The previous long-range tug-of-war quickly turned into fierce hand-to-hand combat.
Ren Xiaoyao charged ahead, unstoppable in his bravery. His Ice Soul Frost Sword slashed left and right, his Free and Unfettered Palm strikes erupting repeatedly. Those who tried to block were sent flying, weapons and all, blood splattering everywhere.
Battlefield combat was far different from江湖 (jianghu, a martial arts world) brawls; even the greatest individual strength had limited effect. Ren Xiaoyao unleashed the Soaring Cloud Sword Technique, exerting all his strength in his rampage, yet he could barely hold onto a corner of the city wall, unable to stop the overwhelming Liao army's offensive.
Seeing his brothers falling one after another, and the city wall about to fall, Ren Xiaoyao grew increasingly anxious. Just as he was about to charge towards the corner tower where the Liao soldiers were most concentrated, a large sword suddenly slashed down from his left, its momentum fierce and unstoppable. Ren Xiaoyao deliberately feigned a blocking stance, his Ice Soul Frost Sword feinting an attack, then felling several men in the process. Just as the enemy's blade was about to strike, he swiftly shifted half a step, dodging the attack in a split second.
The commander of the attacking troops saw his broadsword graz Ren Xiaoyao's nose, narrowly missing him, and cried out in regret. But Ren Xiaoyao nimbly turned, swiftly circled behind him, and with a swift slash of his Ice Soul Frost Sword, sliced both men into four pieces.
Liu Jinzhong and Qu Chuming were deeply surrounded, held captive by more than ten Liao soldiers. Among them were three burly men wielding spears, whose martial arts were exceptionally high. Even before the spears arrived, their force pressed down on their bodies with overwhelming power. In a short time, Liu and Qu were wounded in several places, but fortunately, the enemy's blades had not penetrated deeply. Their tenacious fighting spirit allowed them to barely hold on, but they themselves didn't know how much longer they could endure.
Suddenly, Ren Xiaoyao roared to the sky and charged forward like a raging torrent. Wherever his sword energy struck, Liao soldiers fell dead.
The three experts were also shaken, spitting blood and staggering backward, temporarily unable to attack.
Liu Jinzhong and Qu Chuming felt their pressure lessen and immediately charged forward, cutting down several men in quick succession.
Ren Xiaoyao whispered, "When will the reinforcements arrive?"
Liu Jinzhong, panting, replied, "About... about half an hour, but the Liao army is too strong; they might not last that long." With that, he wielded his sword like the wind and turned to charge into the enemy ranks.
Qu Chuming cried out urgently, "Old Liu... wait! If you and the leader work together to dismantle the siege ladders, we can ease the Liao army's offensive... Oh dear, come back quickly!"
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes lit up, and he said in a deep voice, "Leave the siege ladders to me; you and Brother Liu are in charge of commanding the soldiers."
As soon as he finished speaking, Ren Xiaoyao transformed into an arrow, soaring into the sky and instantly covering a distance of about three zhang (approximately 10 meters), heading straight for the city wall. Upon hearing Qu Chuming call him "leader," the Liao soldiers immediately brandished their swords and spears, attacking him simultaneously. Ren Xiaoyao gave a nonchalant sneer, his feet stomping together, instantly rising five feet into the air. The Liao soldiers, still unwilling to give up, surged towards his next foothold, unaware that Ren Xiaoyao's Flying Immortal Technique had reached the seventh level of the "Soaring to the Clouds" realm. He could leap and bound through the air, constantly shifting his form—something these ignorant rats could not possibly overcome.
Seeing Ren Xiaoyao's eagle-like agility and repeated leaps, the terrified Liao army panicked and their formation crumbled. In the blink of an eye, Ren Xiaoyao somersaulted over the city wall, his Ice Soul Frost Sword flashing through the air, instantly cleaving two ladders in two.
The Liao soldiers who had climbed halfway up suddenly lost their footing and plummeted uncontrollably, their bodies mangled beyond recognition.
The ladders, painstakingly built by the Liao army at the cost of countless lives, were almost entirely destroyed by the exquisite combination of the Soaring Immortal Sword Technique and the "Soaring to the Clouds" skill.
Ren Xiaoyao unleashed his "Drawing the Sword to Cut the Flowing Water" technique, charging towards the last siege ladder. If he could cleave it, the Liao soldiers who had reached the city walls would be isolated. The archers on the siege towers, seeing the dire situation, fired arrows in unison to block his advance, but they couldn't even touch a scrap of his clothing.
Five zhang… four zhang… three zhang… the distance drew ever closer. Just as Ren Xiaoyao was rejoicing, he suddenly felt a sharp pain in his abdomen. He could no longer maintain his balance, and like a bird without wings, he plummeted towards the city walls.
He had felt exhausted during his lovemaking with Nangong Fengzi, and without resting afterward, he had immediately plunged into fierce combat. Naturally, his strength had waned over time.
Alas, it was all due to his philandering!

Volume Twenty-One: The Fallen Kingdom, the Lament of the People, Chapter Sixteen: The Army Fights with All Its Might

Ren Xiaoyao was filled with remorse, yet utterly helpless. He watched helplessly as the moat drew ever closer, silently lamenting his impending doom. Falling into the water wouldn't injure him, but with thousands of soldiers surrounding him, and his strength dwindling, how could he possibly fight his way out? How could he return to the city?
Just then, a rope slid down from the city wall, and Ren Xiaoyao grabbed it without hesitation. Looking up, he vaguely saw someone struggling to pull him back into the city,
their hands moving swiftly and alternately, attempting to drag him back. In the blink of an eye, Ren Xiaoyao had risen several feet, secretly pleased with himself. Suddenly, he heard the twang of a bowstring behind him, and three feathered arrows, whistling through the air, hurtled towards him. Ren Xiaoyao effortlessly used his Hunyuan Wuji technique, deftly deflecting the arrows. Seeing they couldn't harm him, the attackers turned their attention to the person pulling the rope on the city wall, unleashing a rapid-fire barrage of arrows, intending to kill him.
Ren Xiaoyao cried out in alarm. The arrows he had just deflected were incredibly powerful, clearly indicating the shooter possessed profound internal strength. Neither Liu Jinzhong nor Qu Chuming could dodge them; they might even lose their lives instead of saving him. Unexpectedly, the man remained calm. Predicting the arrows' trajectory, he firmly gripped the rope with his left hand and gently pulled with his right. The arrows not only missed him but were instead drawn into the rope, killing several Liao soldiers.
Ren Xiaoyao shouted in approval. The man nodded, first drawing a circle in the air with the rope, then slightly lowering it. He then channeled his internal energy, forcefully swinging the rope over his arms, and Ren Xiaoyao, following the rope's trajectory, circled in the air like a bird, landing steadily on the city wall.
“Nan… Sect Leader Nangong!” Ren Xiaoyao recognized the man and immediately understood. Yelü Xiezhen’s brilliant plan had fooled him, Long Feiyun, and the battle-hardened Qin Huaiyu and Zhang Jinghong, but it couldn’t fool the resourceful and cunning Zhuge Wenjie.
“The fate of the Liao Dynasty is sealed! The Tianji Army will surely win!” Nangong Bubai nodded to Ren Xiaoyao, then raised his arms and shouted. The enemy soldiers were terrified, and the morale of the defenders soared.
Nangong Tiankuo and Liu Xianzong worked together to destroy the last siege ladder. Nearly a thousand Liao soldiers on the city wall lost contact with the central army and were surrounded. Liu Jinzhong and Qu Chuming, disregarding their own injuries, led their followers in a fierce battle. Although the Tingyuxuan disciples who arrived later numbered only a little over a hundred, each one was worth ten and possessed superb martial arts skills. With Nangong Bubai’s proper command and skillful deployment, the tide was turned in no time, and they regained control of the city wall.
Soon, Zou Bin, the deputy leader of the White Tiger Hall, arrived with 10,000 elite troops to reinforce the city. Seeing no hope of breaching the city, the Liao generals had no choice but to order a retreat. Ren Xiaoyao and Zhuge Wenjie briefly discussed the situation and decided to personally lead 5,000 elite cavalry in pursuit.
The Liao army, exhausted from a long battle, was outnumbered by the fresh cavalry. The Liao army offered almost no effective resistance and quickly crumbled, their formation falling into disarray. Ren Xiaoyao leisurely rode his warhorse, circulating his inner energy while watching Zou Bin, Liu Jinzhong, and Qu Chuming wield their spears and halberds, charging from both sides and routing the Liao soldiers.
Half an hour later, the group returned to Xunfeng City laden with spoils. Long Feiyun, Zhu Shunwu, Liu Qingping, Qin Xiang, Zhang Feng, and others, having learned of the news, had already arrived at the south gate to welcome them, praising their leader for leading from the front, remaining calm in the face of danger, and single-handedly repelling the Liao army.
Ren Xiaoyao, having indulged in lust, nearly made a grave mistake. Protecting Xunfeng City was his duty, so he dared not claim credit. He repeatedly expressed his gratitude to Nangong Bubai, who, being kind and righteous, naturally declined again and again. Finally, the straightforward Qin Xiang suddenly blurted out, "Oh dear, what's the point of thanking each other between a prospective father-in-law and son-in-law? We'll all be family in the future anyway," which made everyone burst into laughter, and the solemn atmosphere immediately eased considerably.
Ren Xiaoyao frowned, still shaken, and said, "At first, Fei Yun said Yelü Xiezhen was invincible and a brilliant strategist, but I didn't entirely believe it. Just now, if it weren't for the soldiers fighting desperately and the entire army giving their all, we would have almost been ambushed by him."
Zhuge Wenjie said solemnly, "If it were any other Liao general, let alone a mere 50,000 men, even if he had 300,000, they wouldn't have been able to set foot on the city walls. No wonder even the mighty Yang family army couldn't defeat him."
Zhu Shunwu smiled slightly and said casually, "Since there's already a precedent, similar incidents like tonight..." "The strategy of attacking from the east while striking from the west will not succeed a second time."
Long Feiyun said solemnly, "That's true, but it's hard to guarantee that Yelü Xiezhen doesn't have other schemes and tricks. If that happens, we might not be able to defend against them. We need to formulate a detailed strategy as soon as possible to ensure that Xunfeng City is impregnable."
Ren Xiaoyao focused his eyes and nodded in deep agreement, slowly saying, "There's no time to lose. Let's go to Hall Master Liu's residence immediately for a meeting... Hmm, I'd like to invite Sect Master Nangong and Mr. Zhuge to attend as well. What do you all think?"
Everyone nodded in agreement.
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
Upon learning that the sect leader had arrived in person, Liu Ningtao, despite his illness, went out of the residence to greet him. He had been severely injured by the Heavenly Demon Art, and his injuries were quite serious. Fortunately, he had a strong foundation in internal energy, and there were many spiritual medicines in the residence. After half a day of recuperation, he had shown significant improvement.
Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and Qin Tianyu arrived later. The leaders of the Tianji Sect gathered in a secret room in the residence to discuss how to resist the Liao army's offensive and defend Xunfeng City.
The first thing to determine was the defense strategy. Everyone agreed to raise the alert level to the highest level. The specific measures were as follows: the members of the Azure Dragon, White Tiger, Vermilion Bird, and Black Tortoise halls were divided into three groups, taking turns on duty day and night to ensure that at least 6,000 troops were stationed near each city gate. The members of the Qilin Hall were stationed in key positions, ready to provide support from the center at any time. Night alarms were divided into three categories: if it was just a small-scale disturbance, beacon fires would be used to communicate among each other to avoid disturbing the civilians, and the reserve troops of each hall would rush to the city gates in batches of 3,000 at half-hour intervals; if it was a large-scale attack, gongs would be sounded to warn, and the reserve troops of each hall would rush to the battlefield in batches of 6,000 at quarter-hour intervals; if it was a full-scale attack like the Liao army's attack on the south gate, all troops would be mobilized.
As for how to defeat the enemy, everyone put forward various opinions.
Qin Huaiyu said in a deep voice, "To defend the city without raiding its strongholds is to be doomed to defeat. Our army must constantly organize forces to launch surprise attacks on the besieging enemy, conducting sudden and rapid raids. While defending, we must also launch localized offensives, using defense to prepare for war and war to replace defense. As the saying goes, 'When the city is well-equipped and the defense is secured, we should use surprise tactics and deception to replace defense with war and break the siege.' We should find ways to disrupt their formation and take advantage of their exhaustion and confusion to quickly raid their camps and strongholds. During the Three Kingdoms period, Wei general Zhang Liao defended Hefei with 7,000 men, but was besieged by Sun Quan with 100,000 men. Following Cao Cao's instruction to 'break their momentum and reassure the people before we can defend,' Zhang Liao led a suicide squad of over 800 men to suddenly open the city gates and charge at Sun Quan, breaking the morale of the Wu people and greatly boosting the morale of the Wei soldiers. After besieging the city for more than ten days, Sun Quan realized that the city could not be taken and finally retreated." "I think we can adopt a similar strategy against the Liao army this time,"
Zhang Jinghong objected. "Yelü Xiezhen is most skilled at ambush and sniping. I'm afraid we'll end up besieging them instead of raiding their camp. Besides, raids on enemy camps are mainly carried out by cavalry. Our sect only has the Longxiang and Huyi armies that can rival the Tiger and Leopard Cavalry, but their numbers are less than half of the enemy's. Even if we catch them off guard, once the Liao soldiers recover, we are likely to be annihilated... Zhang Liao was so famous at Xiaoyao Ford because the Wu army was only good at naval warfare, and their cavalry was weak and ineffective. That's why he was able to defeat them in one battle. Now our army only has an advantage in infantry and crossbowmen. If we rashly launch a raid, we may not achieve any significant results." Liu Ningtao frowned and said, "Defending the city is certainly the safest approach, but if word gets out, it will damage our sect's reputation. As everyone knows, the Tianji Army has never retreated easily when facing the enemy since its formation. Adopting a conservative tactic is not the best choice."
Seeing everyone arguing amongst themselves, unable to reach a consensus on whether to defend or wage war, Ren Xiaoyao had no choice but to turn to Zhuge Wenjie and humbly seek his advice: "What do you think of the strategy for defeating the enemy, Mr. Zhuge?" (

Volume 22, Chapter 1: Confrontation of Armies)

Zhuge Wenjie smiled but did not answer, instead asking: "If we choose to defend Xunfeng City to the death, what is your strategy…?"
Liu Ningtao blurted out: "The Liao army has come from afar and is short of supplies. It is not the wheat harvest season. Our army only needs to fortify our defenses and scorched earth, resting and preparing for battle. Even if the general cannot capture Xunfeng City, nor can he plunder any supplies, the entire army will collapse without a fight in less than ten days."
Zhang Jinghong's expression was solemn as he said in a deep voice, "With the Taiqing Tiger Tally in hand, the Liao army's border soldiers will either be transferred from their posts or die for their country. Their supply lines will be unobstructed, and logistical support will be no problem. Waiting for them to run out of food is a long way off."
Liu Qingping said bitterly, "The Liao army numbers 400,000. Even if we hold out for a year or two, we won't be able to kill them all."
Zhu Shunwu angrily said, "We can't fight, we can't defend, are we supposed to just sit and wait to die?"
Long Feiyun's eyes brightened, and she said in a deep voice, "Uncles, don't you think the situation in Xunfeng City is familiar? Only the attack..." "The defense has changed hands, and we are now on the defensive."
Zhang Jinghong murmured, "It seems familiar... the offense and defense have changed hands... Ah! The Battle of Youzhou."
Long Feiyun said solemnly, "Twenty years ago, His Majesty personally led the army on a northern expedition. Yizhou, Zhuozhou, Shunzhou, and Jizhou successively submitted to the emperor. But if Youzhou were to fall, the Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun would be within reach. At that time, 200,000 imperial troops and 100,000 Tianji troops took turns besieging the city. Han Derang and Yelü Xuegu led their troops in a desperate defense, and our forces could not break through for a long time..."
Qin Huaiyu exclaimed, "You... you mean to imitate the Liao army's actions back then and temporarily hold out?" "Once reinforcements arrive,
we can launch a coordinated attack from within and without, and crush the enemy in one fell swoop!" Long Feiyun said confidently. "That's right. As long as we manage to inform the surrounding vassal states and ask their military governors to lead their troops to attack the Liao army's rear, the siege of Xunfeng City can be lifted in an instant."
Zhuge Wenjie lightly waved his feather fan and said calmly, "Master Long, don't forget that it was Yelü Xiezhen who commanded the great battle of Youzhou and crushed the imperial army in one fell swoop."
Long Feiyun showed a confident smile and said with certainty, "Warfare is based on deception. Although our army is using the same old tricks as Yelü Xiezhen against himself, as long as we slightly..." "Adding changes doesn't necessarily preclude success."
Zhang Jinghong echoed, "Indeed, times have changed. When Youzhou was besieged, our army controlled hundreds of miles around it, making it a truly isolated city. The Liao army was able to penetrate deep into Guanzhong, entirely thanks to the Taiqing Tiger Tally deceiving the various regional garrisons. We urge the leader to send messengers to Jinzhou, Qingzhou, Weizhou, Qinzhou, Hezhong, and other places to summon the imperial army to encircle them from all sides. Even with Yelü Xiezhen's extraordinary wisdom, he will have no chance of escape."
Everyone agreed, and amidst the cheers, Ren Xiaoyao completely overlooked Zhuge Wenjie, who seemed about to speak but hesitated.
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
The next day, Yelü Xiezhen personally led 400,000 Liao troops to the city walls.
Yelü Xiezhen was fifty-three years old this year. His physique was as imposing as a mountain, possessing the robust build typical of Khitans, capable of withstanding the harsh winds of the frontier. He had a purplish-red face, a short, wiry beard that reached his lips, and long hair cascading over his shoulders. His eyes were deep and penetrating, radiating an indescribable, intimidating aura. At this moment, he was staring intently at Xunfeng City with murderous eyes, his gaze gleaming and radiant, as if he already foresaw the Tianji Army crumbling and collapsing under his invincible might.
Beside him, his deputy commander, Yelü Xidi, was ten years younger. His face was like cast iron, with a steel band around his forehead, a high, prominent aquiline nose, and prominent, bony brows. His eyes were deeply sunken, giving him an appearance that commanded respect. However, beneath his thick eyebrows, his hawk-like, sharp eyes, seemingly all-seeing, evoked a sense of awe and fear.
Behind Yelü Xiezhen stood his trusted confidant, Xiao Tianzuo, the vanguard general who had led 50,000 troops and nearly breached the north gate the previous night. Short and stocky, he was a head shorter than everyone else, with flowing hair, a straight back, and large, bright eyes that shone like copper bells. His unique appearance was striking; a strong wind whipped his clothes and long, black hair, making him appear even more imposing.
The Tianji Army, dressed in mourning attire, were filled with fighting spirit, their banners proclaiming "Revenge" and "Defend the Country" adorning the city walls.
Ren Xiaoyao, helmeted and white robes draped over his shoulders, trousers flowing, stood upright with his hand on his sword, exuding an aura of supreme heroism. Beneath his imposing exterior lay boundless inner strength. Those beside him, such as Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and Zhu Shunwu, though physically imposing and tall, paled in comparison, merely green leaves setting off a magnificent flower.
This was not only due to Ren Xiaoyao's unique appearance and temperament, but also because of his unwavering, majestic posture, his sharp eyes brimming with fighting spirit, and the powerful confidence emanating from every part of his body, creating a powerful infectiousness that seemed to expose even his heart and lungs.
At this moment, he was not only the dashing thief who had once been famous throughout the nine cities, but also the supreme commander of the 100,000-strong Heavenly Army, respected and worshipped by the entire city's soldiers and civilians like a god.
After the three drumbeats, Ren Xiaoyao suddenly pointed his halberd and shouted: "Yelü Xiezhen, the Song and Liao countries have not been at war for more than ten years. You colluded with Juesha to kill the Dragon Cult Leader by despicable means first, then launched an invasion and attacked Xunfeng City without authorization. What exactly are you trying to do!" He did not deliberately raise his voice; each word was clear and resonant, and the 400,000 Liao soldiers heard it clearly, all secretly trembling with fear.
Yelü Xiezhen laughed loudly, "What do you intend to do? Hahaha, the Song emperor is preparing his military for a northern expedition. The news has already reached the capital. If I don't strike first, is it really worth the sect leader's fuss? As for Long Yinxiao, humph! Who told him to be the Song emperor's right-hand man, and who told him to be our Liao's greatest threat? If I don't find someone to get rid of him, do you think I'll let him lead the Tianji Army to attack our dynasty?"
Hearing Yelü Xiezhen's admission, the Tianji Sect members were all filled with righteous indignation.
Qin Huaiyu cursed, "Yelü Xiezhen, you cowardly and shameless scoundrel! You claim to be invincible, yet you dare not confront the Tianji Army led by the sect leader head-on! You...you...cough cough cough!" He gritted his teeth, his anger uncontrollable, which aggravated his internal injuries, and he almost couldn't catch his breath.
Ren Xiaoyao gestured for Qin Xiang to help his father back to rest, but Qin Huaiyu waved his hand and angrily rebuked, "Although our leader has passed away, the foundation of our sect remains. Brothers, don't let a single Liao soldier escape! Avenge our leader!"
The three armies shouted in unison, their cries pounding the enemy lines like a tidal wave, their morale soaring to its peak.
Yelü Xiezhen laughed loudly several times, then said coldly, "Without Long Yinxiao's command, your Tianji Sect is nothing but a complete rabble. If it weren't for the quick arrival of the Tingyuxuan disciples last night, the most fortified city in the world, which the Song emperor was so proud of, would have belonged to our Great Liao."
Qin Huaiyu was struck where it hurt, his face turning pale and then red, unable to speak for a long time.
Ren Xiaoyao coldly said, "Speaking of last night, I really have to thank King Yelü. Knowing that our army has lacked practical combat training in recent years, he sent us a large number of soldiers to slaughter. Hahaha... I'm ashamed, I'm ashamed. This morning, when I counted the corpses, there were only about five thousand. I really failed to live up to King Yelü's kindness." The two sides hadn't even officially clashed yet, but they were already engaged in a war of words, demonstrating the tense situation.
The Liao soldiers were all trembling with fear and their morale was shattered. They had joined forces with Juesha, intending to take Xunfeng City quickly through a coordinated attack, then march east and reach Bianjing within half a month. However, Juesha's plot had failed, and Hentian had led his men to escape without a trace, leaving them with no choice but to launch a forced siege. Last night's meticulously planned night raid was supposed to be foolproof, but Ren Xiaoyao, the trusted leader of the Tianji Sect, appeared halfway through, causing their success to fail. It seems the plan to ambush Bianjing and annihilate the Song Dynasty in one fell swoop is now doomed, and even the current Xunfeng City may not be able to be captured.
Yelü Xiezhen seemed unfazed by Ren Xiaoyao's sarcasm, calmly smiling and saying, "Leader Ren, there's no need for such formality. I have a great gift to share, please accept it." With that, he slightly raised his hand, and his guards immediately pushed four bound men to the front.
This time, it was Ren Xiaoyao and the other leaders of the Tianji Sect who were greatly surprised. These men were none other than the messengers sent last night to Qingzhou, Weizhou, Qinzhou, Hezhong, and other places to request reinforcements!

Volume 22: Conferring Titles and Generalships, Chapter 2: The Great Battle of Attack and Defense.

Ren Xiaoyao was filled with regret. Yelü Xiezhen was a man of great stature; how could he not have anticipated the Tianji Sect's plea for help?
Those in the know, including Long Feiyun, Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, Liu Ningtao, Zhu Shunwu, Liu Qingping, and Qin Tianyu, stood frozen on the city wall, their faces ashen. The surrounding soldiers, infected by their fear, felt a pervasive sense of dread and despair.
Qin Huaiyu pulled Ren Xiaoyao aside and whispered, "Master, what do we do now?"
Ren Xiaoyao's scalp tingled, and his face drained of color. He glanced at Zhang Feng beside him, then turned his gaze back to the city walls, muttering, "Alas, I regret not heeding Mr. Zhuge's advice... Quickly, send Zhang Feng to invite them."
Before he finished speaking, Nangong Bubai's hearty laughter suddenly rang out behind him.
Everyone turned around in astonishment, only to see Nangong Bubai and Zhuge Wenjie striding up the city wall, followed by a dozen retainers supporting five ragged commoners, lined up in front of the Liao army. As
Ren Xiaoyao was still wondering what was going on, Zhuge Wenjie quietly slipped three brocade pouches to Long Feiyun, while giving him a wink, signaling him not to say anything and to pretend he hadn't seen anything.
Ren Xiaoyao obeyed, turning around calmly and bowing respectfully to Nangong Bubai. The latter smiled slightly and said loudly, "The intelligence provided by your sect is indeed accurate. The Liao army spies entrenched in the city have been wiped out by us. These five are the ringleaders; please, Sect Leader Ren, decide their fate." His deep, resonant voice, amplified by superior internal energy, could be heard for miles around.
Ren Xiaoyao immediately cooperated, shouting, "Tingyuxuan's actions are indeed swift as lightning and as fast as the wind! In less than an hour, they've cleaned up these 'spies' completely! I admire you! I admire you!" Although his tone and words were affected, his joy was genuine. Zhuge Wenjie's strategy of an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, was brilliant. A killed messenger could be replaced, but the capture of spies was an irreparable loss for the enemy.
Yelü Xiezhen sneered, "Ren Xiaoyao, you think you can scare me by having your men grab a few civilians at random? Humph! Daydreaming." He knew very little about the martial arts world of the Central Plains, and he never imagined that Nangong Bubai had Zhuge Wenjie under his command, whose wisdom and strategy were no less than his own. The spies sent to Xunfeng City were indeed elite Liao soldiers he had carefully selected, but with a little trickery from Zhuge Wenjie, they could be captured easily.
Nangong Bubai made a gesture, and Nangong Tiankuo immediately strode forward, grabbed one of the "citizens" by the collar, lifted him high above his head, and shouted, "Come, greet your master, and maybe I'll release you in a moment of pleasure."
The civilian immediately cried out, "Your Majesty, I am Pu Nuning, please..."
A look of shock flashed across Yelü Xiezhen's face, and he suddenly grabbed his bow and arrow, nocked a wolf-tooth plume, and shot it at Pu Nuning with a "whoosh."
Knowing that Ren Xiaoyao intended to silence him, Nangong Tiankuo cried out, "Not good!" The arrow was already in front of him, the wind was strong and the speed was incredible. He knew that if he ducked, he could protect Pu Nuning, but the person behind him would surely perish. So he extended two fingers with his left hand, aimed at the arrow, and deflected it off his body, sending it flying diagonally off the city wall.
Ren Xiaoyao was furious. He thought to himself, "A sneak attack during a battle between two armies? Do you really think my Tianji Sect is afraid of you?" He immediately stretched out his arm and fired three arrows in quick succession, aiming at Yelü Xiezhen's banner.
The banner fluttered in the wind, the royal flag of the Southern Court King hanging on it, looking very majestic among the thousands of troops. If Ren Xiaoyao shot it down, the consequences would be unimaginable.
Yelü Xiezhen, having received instruction from renowned masters since childhood and seasoned in war, prided himself on unparalleled archery skills. He had no fear of a mere child, and fired three arrows.
With a piercing whoosh, the six arrows clashed, unexpectedly breaking into twelve pieces that landed almost simultaneously, leaving both armies speechless.
After a brief silence, a deafening roar of cheers erupted. While Ren Xiaoyao had demonstrated his exceptional archery skills, warning his opponent against rash actions, Yelü Xiezhen was utterly humiliated and disgraced. He had dominated the battlefield for decades, invincible and unrivaled, always considering Long Yinxiao his only true rival. With Long Yinxiao dead, he thought he could finally rest easy, but unexpectedly, Ren Xiaoyao appeared out of nowhere! Last night's night raid demonstrated his remarkable composure and strategic brilliance, showcasing his exceptional command. Today's battle, whether in the initial verbal sparring or the recent swordsmanship contest, showed Ren Xiaoyao to be no less capable than himself. It seems that if this man isn't eliminated soon, he will undoubtedly become a major threat in the future!
Yelü Xiezhen said calmly, "Leader Ren, how about we exchange prisoners?"
Ren Xiaoyao's mind stirred slightly, and he readily agreed, "Good, more for less, worth it!" His implication was that the lives of his Heavenly Pole brothers were far more valuable than those of the Liao army.
Yelü Xiezhen smiled faintly, unperturbed, secretly pondering how to boost morale.
Ren Xiaoyao ordered his men, "Untie them, let them down." The officers obeyed, taking several long ropes, binding them around the waists of the spies, and lowering them down the city walls one by one. They also pulled the four messengers released by the Liao army back up the city walls.
Xiao Tianzuo led the spies to Yelü Xiezhen and reported the situation in the city. Yelü Xiezhen didn't ask any questions, his face darkened, and he shouted, "Take them away and behead them!"
Xiao Tianzuo was stunned and asked in astonishment, "Behead...behead them?"
Yelü Xiezhen waved his hand impatiently, and the guards beside him had already pulled the spies away and beheaded them on the spot. The heads were presented to the generals, and even the Tianji Army was puzzled.
Yelü Xiezhen said loudly, "I brought back Pununing, yet I beheaded him on the spot. You don't understand the reason, do you?"
The generals bowed in unison and said, "Please enlighten us, Your Majesty."
Yelü Xiezhen said solemnly, "As the commander of the three armies, I should cherish the lives of every soldier. How can I turn a blind eye and not rescue my soldiers who have fallen into enemy hands? Pununing and the others were captured, failing to complete their reconnaissance mission and bringing shame upon our Great Liao. Should they be executed?"
All the generals prostrated themselves and said in unison, "Your Majesty is wise! We swear to serve you to the death!" Instantly, their morale soared, their fighting spirit soared, and they couldn't wait to storm the city walls and fight.
Ren Xiaoyao suddenly realized he had fallen into a trap, and as if waking from a dream, he exclaimed, "Oh no! Yelü Xiezhen is going to..."
Before he could finish speaking, the Liao army sounded the attack horn!
"Boom! Boom! Boom!" The rhythmic drumbeats, combined with the soldiers' synchronized footsteps, reverberated throughout the surrounding area, putting immense pressure on the Tianji Army guarding the city. The 400,000 Liao soldiers, divided into three armies, advanced in full force. The vanguard consisted of spearmen, followed by archers and cavalry, their imposing presence and high morale driving them aggressively towards Xunfeng City. Outside the city, shouts of battle filled the air, banners fluttered in the wind, and their sheer power instilled a fear that would cause them to crumble without a fight, unable to withstand the onslaught.
Just as they were about to enter the Tianji Army's attack range, the Liao soldiers suddenly halted. The vanguard abruptly stopped 800 paces from the city, forming a five-rank rectangular formation. The front rank consisted of over 200 iron-plated siege towers specifically designed to block arrows, each concealing more than ten archers. With just a slight advance, they could unleash arrows from behind these towering iron plates, reaching heights of two zhang (approximately 6.6 meters), to cover the rest of the attack. Behind them were the spearmen and musketeers carrying ladders, responsible for scaling the city walls. Two heavily armored cavalry units, each numbering 30,000, formed the flanks of the battle formation, creating another layer of threat that demonstrated the Liao army's discipline and unity.
The Tianji Army on the city walls was indeed well-trained; not only were they orderly, but each soldier was also eager to fight, armed with logs, stones, chaff, and flammable oil, ready to unleash a devastating barrage as soon as the Liao soldiers entered their range.
The war drums sounded again, their roar shaking the heavens, the thunderous thud of horses' hooves echoing across the earth. The Liao army's central force began to rapidly move to the flanks; clearly, Yelü Xiezhen, relying on his superior numbers, intended to stretch the battle line and weaken the defenders' localized defenses.
A major battle was imminent. The Tianji Army soldiers mustered their strength, ready to meet the enemy, but the Liao army's movements suddenly ceased, leaving them red-faced and powerless to unleash their full potential.
Ren Xiaoyao was utterly bewildered. What did Yelü Xiezhen mean by this stop-and-go fighting? Was he up to some kind of cunning scheme?
Zhuge Wenjie was the first to realize, exclaiming, "This is bad! A first attack is powerful, a second weakens, and a third exhausts. He's trying to wear down our morale!"
The enemy's battle horns sounded for the third time, instantly drowning out his words. Two shield bearers strode forward, the front row lowering their long shields to the ground while the rear row raised their shields diagonally upwards, forming a double shield formation to protect the Liao soldiers about to charge.
As Zhuge Wenjie had predicted, after the three drumbeats, the high morale of the Tianji Army had vanished completely under Yelü Xiezhen's meticulous planning. By the time the Liao army launched its final assault, most of the tens of thousands of defending soldiers were ashen-faced and filled with fear. Yelü Xiezhen, raising his spear

with a "whoosh," roared, "Warriors of the

Great Liao, charge!"
Four hundred thousand Liao soldiers shouted in unison, beginning their assault on the legendary, impregnable Xunfeng City.
The first step in the siege was "crossing the moat." Only by successfully crossing the moat could a large number of siege weapons and the vanguard approach the city walls. Otherwise, relying solely on horizontal ladders to cross the moat, as had happened the previous night, was both slow and easily countered by the defenders.
The Liao army excelled at plains warfare, and siege warfare was not their forte. However, Yelü Xiezhen was a war god of the Liao Dynasty, well-versed in military strategy from childhood and experienced in numerous battles. At the start of the battle, he immediately cut off the water source of the moat, employing the method of "blocking the water source and shallowing the sluice gate." Once the water was low, he used carts filled with earth and stones to push directly into the moat. After "filling the moat," the next step was the "siege assault." The "wooden donkey" was essential in this situation. The wooden donkey was a large four-wheeled cart with a top made of a huge, pointed, sloping piece of wood resembling a roof ridge. It was impervious to arrows and stones, and covered with medicinal cowhide, making it difficult to burn. It could hide nearly a hundred soldiers underneath, proving remarkably effective in covering the siege.
As they approached the city walls, it was time for all sorts of siege equipment to come into play. Flying towers, battering rams, ramparts, crenellations, fire wagons, high-rises, siege ladders, and giant battering rams were all used with overwhelming force to scale the walls, ram the ramparts, and strike the gates, determined to reach the top and establish a foothold before gradually widening the breach and wearing down the enemy's morale.
Yelü Xiezhen cleverly devised a plan, effectively neutralizing the high morale of the Tianji Army. Five thousand daredevils seized the opportunity to use siege ladders to scale the walls from all directions, aiming to delay the defenders and buy time for the fortification troops to fill the moat.
The Tianji Army, as expected of an elite force, quickly recovered after the brief opportunity and unleashed a barrage of arrows and stones at the Liao army outside the city. Zhu Shunwu and Liu Qingping each commanded their soldiers, eight men at a time, to push the siege ladders through the city wall. Liu Ningtao and Qin Tianyu deployed crossbows and catapults, firing continuously at the enemy's siege equipment.
The Liao soldiers were powerful and swift, and taking advantage of the Tianji army's initial slackness, several hundred warriors managed to scale the city walls first. Yelü Xidi gave the order, and his three thousand elite infantrymen immediately surged forward, swarming up the ramparts, hoping to expand their gains. Suddenly, they heard urgent gongs from within the city, and a squad of archers—no, to be precise, the Divine Crossbow Battalion—emerged from behind the parapet. The Divine Crossbow Battalion was an elite force carefully selected by Long Yinxiao from the 100,000-strong Tianji army, composed of skilled archers. It numbered only eight hundred, but each one was an unerring marksman, immediately preventing the Liao reinforcements from advancing. Then, a squad of soldiers carrying torches rushed out and began to burn the siege ladders.
Amidst shouts from both above and below the city walls, a group of valiant men emerged from the ramparts, each wielding a long sword and sharp blade, and charged towards the Mongol soldiers who had scaled the walls. These men did not wear the uniforms of the Tianji army; some were ragged, others had ferocious expressions, and they attacked without any formation, yet each was agile and highly skilled in martial arts. The Liao soldiers who had reached the top were all brave warriors, capable of fighting three against one in close combat, but against this group of men, even three against one was no match. In the blink of an eye, they were all defeated, some lying dead on the walls, others their bones shattered beneath.
Xiao Tianzuo felt increasingly uneasy and exclaimed, "Your Majesty, the enemy... the enemy is deliberately sending a suicide squad up the city wall to annihilate them!"
Yelü Xiezhen's expression was grave as he murmured, "Hmm, it seems I underestimated Tianji... wait, who is this person?"
Looking around in the direction he pointed, they saw a particularly imposing white-haired old man on the city wall. In his hand was a seemingly unremarkable black longsword, yet he could cut down enemy soldiers more easily than chopping melons and vegetables. Whenever a Tianji soldier was in trouble, he would immediately leap over to relieve the siege. Wherever his figure went, the Liao soldiers were all routed, like a tiger among sheep.
Seeing the old man's bravery, Xiao Tianzuo was stunned for a long time, then sighed, "This humble general has fought for many years and has never seen such a master. He must be a renowned senior figure in the Central Plains martial arts world."
The military advisor, Tu Jinxiu, interjected, "General Xiao is right. This man is Dugu Yu, the former leader of the Central Plains Martial Arts Alliance and the number one master in the world."
Yelü Xiezhen exclaimed in surprise, "So it's him! No wonder...no wonder..."
At this time, the hundreds of Liao soldiers on the city wall had been almost wiped out, with only the three bravest captains still fighting desperately beside the battlements, wielding spears. Yelü Xidi was furious and ordered his deputy to sound the horn, personally leading a large force to attack the city, intending to rescue the three captains.
Dugu Yu strode forward. The first captain thrust his spear, but Dugu Yu neither dodged nor evaded, instead thrusting his giant sword forward and then kicking the shield of another captain with his left foot. Dugu Yu's internal strength was unparalleled; if he claimed to be second in the world, who would dare claim to be first? With a single strike, two captains screamed and plummeted from the city wall, their bones broken and their bodies mangled. The momentum of the giant sword, still undiminished, cleaved the third captain who followed in two.
Dugu Yu roared, "You barbarians, listen! The entire city of Xunfeng is united in our resistance against the enemy. If you do not retreat immediately, I guarantee that your hundreds of thousands of Liao soldiers will die without a burial place!" These words, spoken in Khitan, were delivered with powerful force, each syllable resounding down upon the city walls. The walls were high, and the distance between the city and Yelü Xiezhen's central army was considerable, yet the surrounding officers heard these words clearly, and they exchanged pale glances.
Yelü Xiezhen was both shocked and furious. He hastily ordered his vanguard to expedite the filling of the moats. However, Xunfeng City was originally built to defend against foreign invaders and protect Guanzhong. Multiple water sources were dug during the construction of the moat, their locations extremely well-hidden. The Liao army, despite their attempts to block and dam the moats, could not find a suitable method and could only rely on sand and mud to forcibly fill them, naturally slowing down the process. Fortunately,
Yelü Xidi was incredibly brave, braving a hail of arrows to direct the filling of the moats. After suffering a heavy loss of nearly 30,000 men, the Liao army finally filled in the moat, which was about ten zhang wide on both sides of the city gate. Yelü
Xiezhen then ordered his generals Han Kuangsi and Liu Heida to each lead 50,000 troops to attack the east and west gates, thereby containing the main forces of the Qinglong Hall and Zhuque Hall. Xiao Tianzuo, on the other hand, led a large number of swordsmen and shieldmen, along with large siege weapons such as wooden donkeys, iron chariots, flying towers, and fishing ramparts, to launch an assault.

Volume Twenty-Two: Conferring Titles and Generalships, Chapter Four: The Higher the Moral Line.

This battle was so fierce that the sun and moon were obscured, and the sky was darkened. Arrows and stones rained down on both sides of the city, adding to the number of souls lost in this merciless war. Both sides knew very well that mercy and pity had no place in the battlefield where these two armies clashed. Only the ruthless, the vicious, and the cruel would survive!
Faced with the Liao army's all-out attack, the Tianji Army, trained by Yelü Xiezhen, gradually began to falter. Ren Xiaoyao urgently summoned 10,000 White Tiger Hall followers from the south gate, and even the Imperial Guards protecting the main altar were called in as reinforcements, barely managing to reverse the disadvantage and achieve a stalemate with the enemy.
More than thirty wooden donkeys used by the Liao army close to the city wall were either smashed by rolling logs and stones or burned by fire arrows. Only five remained, still holding their own against the arrows. Similarly, many of the crossbows and catapults on the city walls had been damaged. The initial exchange of fire gradually turned into fierce hand-to-hand combat. The Tianji army, occupying the high ground, found it easy to defend and difficult to attack. The Liao soldiers were numerous and highly motivated, and for a time, the battle was evenly matched. Taking advantage of the situation,
Yelü Xidi sent out a second batch of wooden battering rams, which quickly crossed the filled-in ditches and pounded the city gate with a series of booms, seemingly representing the gradual weakening of the Tianji army's strength. The attackers were paying a heavy price for each bit of the enemy's weakening. Outside the city, some of the wooden donkeys, battlements, and siege towers that had been burned by arrows and fire had been reduced to ashes, while others were still burning fiercely, sending out thick plumes of smoke that blotted out the sun. Fires broke out in many places within the city, with smoke billowing into the sky, all thanks to fireballs fired by the Liao army's catapults. Fortunately, Ren Xiaoyao had already arranged for female soldiers of the Heroic Army to evacuate civilians whose homes were near the city walls to safety, preventing innocent bystanders from being harmed. Seeing the Liao army's brutality, the hundreds of thousands of soldiers and civilians in Xunfeng City were filled with a shared hatred for the enemy. The
able-bodied men rose up to defend the city, and even women, children, and the elderly carried soil and stones to fight against the powerful foe.
As the sun set, the great battle raged for five hours. The yellow sand was soaked with blood, and corpses littered the fields. Broken spears, shattered halberds, dead horses, and tattered flags stretched for over ten miles. Yelü Xiezhen had served in the army since childhood, thirty-eight years in total. He had always fought against overwhelming odds and won battles against superior forces, but never had a battle been as difficult as today's. Even with his army four times the size of the Tianji Army, he still couldn't capture Xunfeng City. He was secretly alarmed: Fortunately, Long Yinxiao was dead, which had somewhat affected the morale of the Tianji Army. Although Ren Xiaoyao was a man of great wisdom and strategy, he lacked experience in applying them, and his troop deployment was still immature. Otherwise, his glorious achievements of winning every battle might have been ruined at Xunfeng City.
Seeing that the siege had dragged on for a long time without success and that the morale of the army was already low, Yelü Xiezhen knew that even if he continued to forcefully persist, he would only suffer losses and would definitely not come out on top. Seeing thousands of corpses piled up outside Xunfeng City, all of them elite soldiers who had been through countless battles, he was very indignant. However, seeing that Xunfeng City was sturdy and well-defended, there was really no way to take advantage of the situation. He couldn't help but sigh and immediately ordered the army to retreat forty miles.
Taking advantage of the moment, Ren Xiaoyao roared, "Brothers, Yelü Xiezhen has been defeated!"
The Tianji Army on the city wall cheered thunderously, beating their war drums and shouting encouragement. Qin Xiang and Zhang Feng suggested pursuing the enemy, but Ren Xiaoyao solemnly said, "The Liao army has only retreated, not been defeated. Besides, Yelü Xiezhen is a veteran of many battles and wouldn't be unaware of our actions. Rashly going out of the city to pursue them might just play into his hands."
Qin Huaiyu pondered for a moment and said, "The Longxiang and Huyi armies have been staying in the inner city to conserve their strength, and their fighting spirit is currently high. In my opinion, it wouldn't hurt to try going out of the city."
Zhuge Wenjie stroked his beard and smiled, "Vice Leader Qin, please don't forget that in today's great battle, not only did your sect hold back, but Yelü Xiezhen also didn't use his Tiger and Leopard Cavalry."
The crowd suddenly realized the truth and stopped discussing pursuing the enemy.
Sure enough, after the Liao soldiers retreated more than ten miles, a large number of armored cavalry emerged from the dense forest in the distance. Their military might and equipment surpassed even the 400,000-strong army that had besieged the city.
The entire Tianji Army was filled with admiration. Zhang Jinghong's eyes shone brightly as he said, "Mr. Zhuge's strategies are truly brilliant. I wonder if you could find a way to have the messenger break through the Liao army's encirclement and deliver the message for reinforcements..."
Nangong Bubai interrupted with a smile, "Hasn't Vice Sect Leader Zhang noticed that someone is missing from his side?"
Zhang Jinghong was stunned, then exclaimed, "Feiyun... Feiyun, he..."
Zhuge Wenjie laughed loudly, "When the Sect Leader and I escorted the Liao army spies up the city wall, we secretly notified Hall Master Long to immediately break out from the south gate. At this moment... hahaha, Hall Master Long must be more than a hundred miles away.
" Ren Xiaoyao suddenly realized, "So that's how it is. No wonder Mr. Zhuge secretly gave the brocade pouch to Brother Long." Half
an hour later, at the Liao
army camp,
Yelü Xiezhen returned to his tent in a rage. He summoned his generals to discuss countermeasures, but before he could speak, a junior officer reported that before the general offensive, Long Feiyun, the leader of the Qilin Hall of the Tianji Sect, had single-handedly broken through the defenses from Xunfeng City and headed straight for Jinzhou.
The generals paled at the news, but Yelü Xiezhen laughed heartily.
Yelü Xidi exclaimed in astonishment, "Your Majesty, with Long Feiyun gone, reinforcements will arrive soon, and at that time..."
Yelü Xiezhen waved his hand, interrupting, "then, with the Tianji army joining forces from within, our army might not be able to handle it, right?" "
Yelü Xidi asked cautiously, "Since Your Majesty has already seen through the mystery, then..."
Yelü Xiezhen patted his beloved general's shoulder and smiled leisurely, "Xidi, Xidi, you've followed me for twenty years, surely you understand my ways? I won't do anything without certainty."
Xiao Tianzuo asked happily, "Your Majesty secretly sent someone to intercept Long Feiyun?"
Yelü Xiezhen said calmly, "Long Feiyun is the eldest son of Long Yinxiao, and his martial arts have all been passed down from his father. Since you've let him go out of the city to seek help, I presume you have the Mangcang Taxue Armor, the Nine Heavens Xuanqiong Sword, and Long Yinxiao's Jade Snow Kirin Steed that can travel a thousand miles a day. Even if you send out the Tiger and Leopard Cavalry, they might not be able to stop him."
Yelü Xidi said anxiously, "You...you're just letting him go to Jinzhou to seek help?"
Yelü Xiezhen smiled mysteriously, "Let alone the mere Jinzhou, the five prefectures of Qingzhou, Weizhou, Qinzhou, and Hezhong, he can go wherever he wants, and I, Yelü Xiezhen, will not stop him." Yelü
Xidi respectfully said, "Your Majesty is invincible and doesn't take the troops stationed in those five prefectures seriously, but that's still over ten thousand men."
Yelü Xiezhen smiled calmly and lowered his voice, "If I said that Long Feiyun won't be able to bring a single reinforcement on this trip, would you believe me?"
Yelü Xidi shook his head and said, "Xunfeng City is the gateway to Guanzhong; how could the imperial army not come to its aid?"
Yelü Xiezhen's eyes shone brightly, and a confident smile appeared on his lips. He said calmly
, "The imperial army is barely able to protect itself, how can it have the spare time to save Xunfeng City?" Xiao Tianzuo interjected, "It's... barely able to protect itself, what makes you say that?" Yelü
Xiezhen stroked his beard and smiled, "King Li Deming of Western Xia led his army to attack Jinzhou and Qingzhou; General Yelü Xiuge sent troops to Weizhou, Qinzhou, and Hezhong; Marshal Han Derang advanced on the Three Passes, restraining the Yang family army. The Song court is too busy to help itself, how can it support Xunfeng City?"
Xiao Tianzuo suddenly realized and laughed, "Hahaha, I think they are waiting for reinforcements from the Tianji Sect."

Volume 22: Conferring Titles and Generalships, Chapter 5: The Devil is One Step Taller.

It was late at night, and Ren Xiaoyao was still patrolling the city wall. Since the Liao army retreated, he had persuaded Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, Liu Ningtao, and other leaders of the Tianji Sect to return to their residences, but he himself had not left the North Gate even half a step. First, he led the clearing of silt from the moat, then he led the fortification troops to repair the city walls. Even at dinner, he shared simple meals with ordinary soldiers. The entire city's military and civilians were already deeply impressed by his command abilities. Seeing him lead by example, approachable, and willing to set aside his status as the leader of a sect to share hardships with lower-ranking followers,
they were all deeply moved. They transferred all their former respect and reverence for Long Yinxiao to him. When the news reached the main altar, Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, Liu Ningtao, and others were all deeply moved, fearing that their leader, accustomed to a life of luxury, wouldn't be able to endure such hardship. Little did they know that while Ren Xiaoyao appeared to be surrounded by beautiful women, had more money than he could spend, lived in luxurious mansions, and ate delicacies, he had actually experienced far more hardships from childhood than these seasoned veterans.
Ren Xiaoyao was patrolling the corner tower when he suddenly saw Zhuge Wenjie coming up from the city wall. His mind raced, and he hurried over to greet him, bowing and saying, "Mr. Zhuge, what brings you here? Has the Sect Master retired for the night?"
Zhuge Wenjie lightly waved his feather fan, smiling enigmatically, and said, "The Sect Master is speaking with the Eldest Miss in the Taiji Hall. I thought you, Master Ren, might have something to ask me, so I came to check on you."
Ren Xiaoyao smiled and asked, "Mr. Zhuge, what do you think I should ask you?"
Zhuge Wenjie lowered his voice and said, "Hall Master Long's trip to seek reinforcements should have been kept secret to avoid arousing Yelü Xiezhen's suspicion. However, I deliberately revealed it in public. Although it boosted morale, it plunged the imperial army that came to reinforce us into utter ruin."
Ren Xiaoyao was moved. "I am truly baffled by this," Ren Xiaoyao said. "Please enlighten me, Mr. Zhuge."
Zhuge Wenjie said in a deep voice, "You think that just because the Liao soldiers captured our messenger, they would remove the checkpoints guarding the crossroads? You're wrong! Yelü Xiezhen is most skilled at besieging a point and attacking reinforcements. While launching a full-scale attack on the city, he will never relax his vigilance around Xunfeng City. So even if I didn't say anything, Yelü Xiezhen already knew."
Ren Xiaoyao said with some worry, "So, even if Fei Yun brings reinforcements..."
Zhuge Wenjie interrupted him, enunciating each word clearly, "Jinzhou, Qingzhou, Weizhou, Qinzhou, and Hezhong—the five prefectures—won't send a single soldier to aid Xunfeng City. On the contrary, the military governors are waiting for the Tianji Army to help them relieve the siege."
Ren Xiaoyao said in astonishment, "Zhuge... Mr. Zhuge, you're not joking, are you?"
Zhuge Wenjie's expression turned solemn as he slowly said, "If I'm not mistaken, the Western Xia army and the other two Liao forces were already on their way, perhaps before Fei Yun even reached her destination, when the five prefectures were completely surrounded by enemy troops."
Ren Xiaoyao asked incredulously, "Mr. Zhuge, you are thousands of miles away, how did you know that both Western Xia and Liao had dispatched large armies, and that their forces were aimed directly at the five prefectures?"
Zhuge Wenjie smiled and said, "Because Yelü Xiezhen's goal was not to capture Xunfeng City, but to march east and take Bianjing in one fell swoop. The three armies of Western Xia and Liao were already arranged when this army of 400,000 set off, with the aim of holding back the main force of the court in the northwest and preventing them from returning to Bianjing."
Ren Xiaoyao trembled and said, "This... so it's all thanks to my sect for protecting Guanzhong, otherwise... otherwise..." Thinking of Yelü Xiezhen's unstoppable advance, reaching Bianjing, and the court's precarious situation, he immediately felt a chill run down his spine.
Zhuge Wenjie solemnly replied, "Of course. With Juesha as an inside agent, Yelü Xiezhen would have an easy time capturing Xunfeng City. There's no need to mobilize 400,000 troops."
Ren Xiaoyao suddenly realized and exclaimed, "If that's the case, then why did you send Feiyun out of the city to seek reinforcements?"
Zhuge Wenjie leaned closer and lowered his voice, "To tell you the truth, Master Long's destination is not Jinzhou, nor Qingzhou, Weizhou, Qinzhou, or Hezhong, but... Bianjing!"
Ren Xiaoyao exclaimed, "Bian... Bianjing!"
Zhuge Wenjie confidently said, "Of the three most elite forces in the Song Dynasty, one is your sect's Heavenly..." "The army consists of two parts: the Yang family army and the Imperial Guard stationed in the capital region. Once His Majesty receives news of the siege of Xunfeng City, he will surely dispatch General Huyan Zan with the Imperial Guard to its rescue. Huyan Zan is experienced, prudent, and cautious. He cannot win against Yelü Xiezhen, but he will certainly not fall into a trap and suffer total annihilation. Therefore, as long as we hold out until he arrives with his army, the siege of Xunfeng City will be lifted."
Ren Xiaoyao's eyes brightened, and he said happily, "Mr. Zhuge's words have enlightened me... I have a plan that is still being devised, and I humbly request Mr. Zhuge's guidance."
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
The next day, Yelü Xiezhen arrived with his troops again. His generals, seeing that the moat they had painstakingly filled the day before had been restored overnight, couldn't help but gasp in astonishment.
Yelü Xiezhen coldly said, "Hmph! The Heavenly Army is the best in the world, indeed... Fine, if that's how it is, then I have no choice." With that, he waved his hand.
Several lieutenant generals immediately rode out, leading axemen to escort thousands of civilians from the rear of the army, pushing them to the front of the battle line.
Since Yelü Deguang founded the Liao Dynasty, when conquering cities and seizing territories, the Liao army always drove the enemy's civilians first. If the defending soldiers hesitated to fire, the Liao soldiers would immediately follow. This method could both slaughter the enemy's civilians and shake the morale of the enemy army, achieving two goals at once. Although it was cruel and vicious, it often yielded remarkable results.
Yelü Xiezhen, confident in his bravery and having fought on the battlefield for over forty years, had never resorted to such a tactic. Seeing that Xunfeng City was strong and impregnable, he had
no choice but to revive the "glorious tradition" of his ancestors. Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and others had fought against the Liao army for a long time and knew about this treacherous plan, but they had no good way to break it. The Liao soldiers shouted and threatened the Song civilians with knives and spears, forcibly driving them onto the city walls. As the civilians drew closer, tens of thousands of Liao soldiers followed closely behind. The generals on the city walls panicked, at a loss for what to do, repeatedly asking, "Master... what... what should we do?"
Ren Xiaoyao was caught in a dilemma. If he didn't let them pass, the civilians would suffer; if he did, Xunfeng City would be lost. He stood there speechless for a long time.
Soon, the civilians reached the moat. They were all ragged and pale, shouting in unison, "Open the gate! We are all citizens of the Great Song!"
The soldiers guarding the gate, without Ren Xiaoyao's permission, dared not act rashly. Xiao Tianzuo smiled sinisterly, "Fine, you won't open it, huh? Attack!" The Liao soldiers swiftly cut down seven or eight civilians. The rest cried and screamed, their cries for their parents creating chaos.
The soldiers on the city walls gritted their teeth, cursing the Liao army for their despicable and vile behavior. Ren Xiaoyao, recalling his lonely and miserable childhood, felt a surge of righteous anger and roared, "The brave are fearless, the wise are invincible, but the benevolent are the true heroes, fearless and invincible! Since the founding of our sect by the Great Ancestor Emperor, we have upheld the sacred precept of acting on behalf of Heaven and serving the country and its people. Now that I, Xiaoyao, have assumed the position of sect leader, how can I disregard the lives of the common people? Generals, listen to my command! Open the city gates and let the people into the city!"
Qin Huaiyu urgently stopped him, saying, "Sect Leader..." "Absolutely not! The Liao army..."
Ren Xiaoyao waved his hand to interrupt, his expression solemn. "My mind is made up. No need for further words. Open the city gates!"

(Chapter 6: Deeply Encircled)

The soldiers lowered the drawbridge, and the people, young and old, poured into the city. The Liao army was just approaching when Ren Xiaoyao raised his sword to signal. Liu Yijun immediately led eight hundred inner guards down from the city wall, standing with the Liao army at the rear. The rest of the Tianji army also dispersed, hiding behind the battlements, drawing their bows and preparing to defend.
Although the Liao vanguard was a battle-hardened and fierce force, the inner guards, responsible for guarding the three halls and five pavilions, were all highly skilled in martial arts, truly the elite of the Tianji army. Liu Yijun led the charge, bravely taking the lead, and the troops shouted in unison, fighting with all their might. In the blink of an eye, dozens of Liao soldiers were cut down on the spot.
Seeing the two armies locked in battle, the people cried out and seized the opportunity to escape back into the city.
In the blink of an eye, the second Liao army contingent arrived, outnumbering the Imperial Guards by about four times, instantly trapping Liu Yijun and his men in the center. As the saying goes, even the bravest warrior cannot overcome sheer numbers. The battle cries outside the city were deafening. Liu Yijun and his men charged left and right, but could not break through the encirclement.
Zhu Shunwu and Liu Qingping, seeing the critical situation, were about to go out to provide support when suddenly they heard horns sounding from the east, followed by the neighing of warhorses. Xiao Tianzuo led two cavalry units charging in, and then two more squads of swordsmen and shieldmen arrived from the west. They were waiting for the city gates to open so they could rush in—Yelü Xiezhen's troop deployment was indeed flawless.
The generals on the city walls knew they couldn't save Liu Yijun and his men, yet they couldn't bear to watch their eight hundred brothers perish. They were all frantic with worry. Some suggested sending the Dragon and Tiger Wing armies out of the side gates to outflank the Liao army and launch a counter-encirclement; others suggested calling in the crossbowmen to forcefully fire upon both armies, saving as many as possible; still others suggested opening the city gates and fighting the Liao army to the death. Ren Xiaoyao pondered these suggestions but found none feasible. He turned to Zhuge Wenjie, who slowly shook his head, clearly at a loss for what to do.
Liu Yijun, having already resolved to die, roared, "Brothers, let's fight the Liao army! Killing one is enough, killing two is a bonus!" With that, he swiftly drew his sword, cutting down a cavalryman who charged at him.
Encouraged, the imperial guards charged forward fearlessly. However, the Liao soldiers were too numerous, and their swords, spears, and halberds attacked relentlessly from all sides. The guards could only hold off the attackers, and in the blink of an eye, dozens had sacrificed their lives.
Liu Yijun, though severely wounded, fought on relentlessly, and not a single one of the eight hundred guards retreated. Ren Xiaoyao, heartbroken, suddenly roared to the sky, "Brother Liu, I've come to your aid!" He leaped from the city wall, his Ice Soul Frost Sword transforming into a dazzling rainbow, slashing down on the Liao army like a tidal wave.
The city wall was over ten zhang high; even with unparalleled martial arts skills, leaping from it would result in a fatal fall. The soldiers of both armies watched in stunned silence, gasping in horror. Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and others were horrified by their leader's audacity, while Yelü Xiezhen secretly laughed, thinking that Ren Xiaoyao had probably gone mad, disregarding even his own life.
Unexpectedly, Ren Xiaoyao, while still in mid-air, suddenly used his Flying Immortal Transformation technique, instantly covering a distance of several dozen feet to pounce on Xiao Tianzuo. Xiao Tianzuo, a general of the Liao Kingdom, had spent his entire life on horseback and amidst swords and spears. Seeing Ren Xiaoyao's attack, he remained calm, drawing his bow, nocking an arrow, and gripping his horse's flanks tightly,
firing a shot directly at Xiao Tianzuo's head. Ren Xiaoyao, anticipating the arrow's trajectory, easily dodged it, but his attack did not falter in the slightest. In the blink of an eye, he had already flashed above Xiao Tianzuo. His movements were so light and agile, his footwork so graceful, that the soldiers on the city wall were dazzled, and they cheered in unison.
Xiao Tianzuo roared and swung his massive axe down at Ren Xiaoyao's head. He was exceptionally gifted and possessed immense strength, and the axe, forged from fine steel and weighing 64 jin (approximately 32 kg), would have been incredibly difficult for Ren Xiaoyao to defeat in one blow, given his current abilities. However, he was adept at using the opponent's force against them. With a surge of internal energy, he channeled all the momentum from his high position into his sword tip. The Ice Soul Frost Sword drew a magnificent blue light in the air, cleaving the axe in two. Xiao Tianzuo, struck by the internal force, coughed up blood and swayed precariously.
Seeing their commander in danger, the Liao soldiers rushed to his aid, greatly relieving the pressure on Liu Yijun and his guards.
Seeing the strategy of "besieging Wei to rescue Zhao" succeed, Ren Xiaoyao somersaulted several dozen feet, killing several Liao soldiers in succession, and personally led the rearguard with his sword. The guards, under Liu Yijun's command, formed a square formation and retreated in an organized manner into the city.
Xiao Tianzuo, a general of the Liao army, renowned throughout the barbarian lands, was utterly terrified. He couldn't even withstand two blows from Ren Xiaoyao's sword. The Liao army, thrown into chaos, retreated in disarray.
Qin Huaiyu was overjoyed and shouted, "Open the city gates! Only slightly, never open them wide!" The city gates opened three or four feet, barely allowing one horseman, and the imperial guards rushed in.
Yelü Xiezhen, filled with shock and rage, ordered a full-scale attack. To ensure the safe retreat of his guards, Ren Xiaoyao gritted his teeth, turned back, and charged, slashing at a Liao general who was commanding the battle from horseback.
The Liao general, caught off guard by Ren Xiaoyao's swiftness, hastily raised his spear to parry, but the Ice Soul Frost Sword cut through iron like mud, instantly slicing his weapon in two. The blade grazed his shoulder, tearing his skin and splattering blood. The Liao general cried out in agony and fell from his horse.
The Liao army, fearing his bravery, dared not approach for a time. Seeing Liu Yijun lead his inner guards into the city, the generals on the city walls shouted, "Master, hurry into the city!"
However, once the army moved, it was like a surging tide. Although Ren Xiaoyao was highly skilled in martial arts, how could he possibly resist alone? In the blink of an eye, the Liao army swarmed in, not only trapping him but also cutting the ropes connecting the drawbridge.
Ren Xiaoyao wielded the Ice Soul Frost Sword, sweeping it down on the Liao army as easily as cutting melons and vegetables. The surrounding Liao soldiers cried out in agony, and in the blink of an eye, more than ten men had fallen dead. However, the enemy was extremely powerful, and the blood of their comrades only fueled their latent ferocity. One after another, they charged forward, surrounding the enemy.
Qin Huaiyu was as anxious as an ant on a hot pan, shouting, "Son, lead the Dragon Cavalry out and fight our way out, at all costs... No, I'll save them myself!" He turned to go downstairs.
Zhang Jinghong stopped him, saying, "Second Brother, if we send troops out of the city again, the leader's efforts will be in vain."
Qin Huaiyu stamped his foot and said, "Are we just going to let the leader... he..."
Zhang Jinghong resolutely said, "Believe me, the leader will be fine!"
Qin Huaiyu nodded and shouted, "All troops, listen to my command! Defend the city to the death and be ready to support the leader at any time!" The Tianji Army responded in unison and once again engaged in a fierce battle of attack and defense with the Liao army.
Ren Xiaoyao was surrounded and suffering terribly. Although the Liao army besieging him was far less skilled than the eight hundred elite soldiers of Juesha, they were all extremely fierce. Knowing that his Ice Soul Frost Sword could cut through iron like mud, they still charged forward one after another, using their flesh and blood to block him by the moat. He wanted to jump but couldn't, because his head was full of swords and spears; he wanted to move but couldn't, because he was surrounded by a wall of corpses.
With each strike, Ren Xiaoyao claimed the life of a Liao soldier, yet the enemy continued to surge forward. Suddenly, the sound of clashing swords echoed behind him. Ren Xiaoyao had no time to even look; his left foot braced against the ground, his body spinning with lightning speed. His Ice Soul Frost Sword slashed diagonally, severing a spear that had launched a sneak attack from the head. Then, the blade sliced horizontally, embedding itself deeply into the enemy's throat. After the continuous fighting, his strength had diminished considerably; this strike hadn't severed the enemy's head at the root, but instead embedded itself in his cervical vertebrae.
Ren Xiaoyao kicked the corpse away before pulling out his sword, the enemy's gushing blood splattering all over his face and body.

Volume Twenty-Two: Conferring Titles and Generalships, Chapter Seven: Heaven's Will Prevail.

Yelü Xiezhen smiled coldly and proclaimed, "All troops, heed my command! Whoever takes Ren Xiaoyao's head will be rewarded with ten thousand taels of gold and promoted five ranks!"
Hearing their king's words, the Liao army fought even more fiercely, with hundreds of Hu soldiers attacking him relentlessly like wolves and tigers. Ren Xiaoyao was completely unable to use his Flying Immortal Transformation technique and could only rely on the Free and Unfettered Palm combined with the Soaring Sky Sword Technique to barely hold on. In just a moment, he had seven or eight more wounds on his body, blood staining his clothes. However, his spirit was already numb, and he could not feel any pain.
Ren Xiaoyao gradually felt his strength waning. He heard the shouts around him shaking the heavens and earth, and the Liao soldiers surged like a tide. He thought to himself, "Is it my destiny, Ren Xiaoyao, to die today among these hundreds of thousands of Liao soldiers?" In a moment of distraction, he was stabbed twice in the back and stumbled, almost falling over.
By this time, the Liao army's initial contingents had been decimated by casualties, and three thousand heavily armored halberdiers charged forward with shouts. Though cumbersome, the iron halberds were extremely lethal, especially those specially forged by Yelü Xiezhen for his soldiers, featuring triangular blood grooves at the tips. A single piercing of these halberds would result in a bloodbath that would leave the soldier dead on the spot.
The Ice Soul Frost Sword slashed back and forth, leaving two Liao soldiers lying dead on the ground. Ren Xiaoyao immediately countered with a slash, sending another Liao soldier stumbling backward, followed by several others.
Several Hu soldiers simultaneously thrust their halberds at him. Ren Xiaoyao, already exhausted, met the attack with his sword, but the recoil from the force of the blows caused him to lose control and be thrown aside. Suddenly, a Liao general thrust his spear into his left shoulder blade, a piercing pain shooting through his body. Ren Xiaoyao fell backward, narrowly escaping a piercing wound to his chest and abdomen.
Ren Xiaoyao rolled several times, but still couldn't escape the enemy's encirclement. More than ten iron halberds simultaneously thrust towards him. Ren Xiaoyao closed his eyes, his heart filled with utter despair, knowing that he could not escape death this time.
"Heaven has forsaken me—" Ren Xiaoyao sighed to the sky, about to draw his sword to commit suicide, when suddenly a ray of light flashed in his mind.
Ren Xiaoyao mustered his remaining courage, parried with his sword, and used not the Lingxiao Sword Technique, but—the Hunyuan Wuji! Yes, it was Hunyuan Wuji. He channeled the palm power of Hunyuan Wuji into the Ice Soul Frost Sword, and more than a dozen iron halberds were immediately deflected to the side. The Liao soldiers attacking from both sides immediately suffered, and the shrill screams of "Ah! Ah! Ah!" filled the air. Ren Xiaoyao's left arm was pierced by a spear, and blood gushed out.
The Liao army had never seen such wondrous martial arts before, and were terrified. Taking advantage of the situation, Ren Xiaoyao rushed onto the drawbridge, unleashing a flurry of sword and palm strikes, slaughtering the Liao soldiers approaching the city gate.
"Master—oh dear!" Qin Huaiyu cried out in despair. The Tianji Army had already lowered countless ropes from the city walls to support their leader; if
Ren Xiaoyao had simply leaped up, he could have easily scaled the walls. But he insisted on continuing to intercept the Liao soldiers, thus missing his best chance to escape. Sure enough, after a moment's hesitation, a large number of Liao soldiers once again trapped him in the center of the wall. Amidst shouts, nearly thirty iron halberds whistled and attacked from all directions, seemingly intent on killing Ren Xiaoyao instantly.
Ren Xiaoyao nimbly spun around, swinging his sword with all his might, and somehow managed to deflect all thirty-odd halberds at once.
Not only the generals of the Heavenly Pole Sect cheered, but even Dugu Yu and Nangong Bubai applauded. Ren Xiaoyao, having successfully borrowed the strength of thirty Liao warriors and combined it with his own internal energy, should have easily leaped onto the city wall.
Unexpectedly, Ren Xiaoyao didn't do that. Instead, he channeled all that force into the drawbridge!
"Bang—" The force surged, a whirlwind of energy erupted, and the thick wooden drawbridge snapped in two.
Everyone then realized that Ren Xiaoyao wasn't just trying to save his own life, but also to protect the entire Xunfeng City!
The soldiers of both armies were utterly stunned by his selfless act. They forgot their fighting, their eyes fixed on the splintered bridge. No one had imagined that this new leader of the Heavenly Pole Sect would fight to the death, risking further injury and even being unable to escape, to forcibly destroy the Liao army's only route to the city wall.
Yelü Xiezhen had no choice but to order a retreat and devise a new strategy.
The Tianji Army rushed out of the city gates, shouting and yelling, and rescued the blood-soaked Ren Xiaoyao back into the city. They found him with his eyes closed, barely breathing, his arms, chest, abdomen, ribs, and even his undershirt torn to shreds, bearing dozens of wounds of varying sizes. They couldn't help but shed tears.
Qin Huaiyu cried out urgently, "Quick! Get the leader back to the main altar and summon a renowned physician immediately!"
Liu Ningtao, Zhu Shunwu, Liu Qingping, Qin Tianyu, and others hurriedly lifted Ren Xiaoyao onto a stretcher. Before they could even move, Ren Xiaoyao slowly opened his eyes and weakly said, "Uncle Liu, Uncle Zhu… the four hall masters must guard the four gates well. I… my injuries… you don't need to… don't worry about me." Before he could finish speaking, he coughed up blood and immediately lost consciousness.
Dugu Yu took the stretcher from Liu Ningtao with his left hand, placed his right hand on Ren Xiaoyao's shoulder, and used his Xuanmen internal energy to protect his heart meridian. His gaze swept intently across the faces of Qin Huaiyu, Zhang Jinghong, and other leaders of the Tianji Sect, and he said in a deep voice, "Leave Xiaoyao's affairs to me. It is your duty to lead the entire city's army and civilians to fight against the Liao soldiers and protect Xunfeng City from falling."
※ ※ ※ ※ ※
After an unknown amount of time, Ren Xiaoyao finally awoke. The first thing that caught his eye was the luxuriously decorated dome of the Taiji Hall. Then, the four beautiful women, Nangong Fengyi, Nangong Fengzi, Shui Furong, and Lin Yuxiu, also came closer, their beautiful faces filled with concern, gazing at him tenderly.
Lin Yuxiu's pretty face flushed with excitement as she exclaimed joyfully, "Big brother's awake! Big brother's finally awake!"
Shui Furong's beautiful eyes drifted towards him, and she said with a slight reproach, "Hmph, you silly fool, you stinky fool, you finally opened your eyes! I thought you were planning to lie in bed for the rest of your life."
Ren Xiaoyao, without changing his dashing and debonair nature, teased, "If I lie in bed for the rest of my life, then you'll have to live a life of widowhood... Ouch!" He tried to get up, but suddenly felt a sharp pain in his ribs and involuntarily fell back down.
Nangong Fengyi hurriedly helped her lover up, her voice soft and sweet, "You, don't push yourself when your injuries haven't healed yet."
Ren Xiaoyao nodded, feeling weak all over, and leaned listlessly against his beauty's shoulder, saying with a wry smile, "Where exactly am I injured? Why does every part of my body feel so bad?"
Nangong Fengyi sighed softly, "Five gunshot wounds, nine sword wounds, thirteen knife wounds, and seventeen more that are unidentifiable. Brother Xiaoyao, all the injuries you've sustained in your adventures so far don't even compare to what you had four days ago."
Ren Xiaoyao laughed heartily, "That's right! Looking at the world today, the most capable person to injure me is... What? I was unconscious for four days!?"
Lin Yuxiu shrugged. She shrugged, a mischievous smile playing on her lips. "Indeed, your sisters were terribly worried, staying by your side day and night."
Ren Xiaoyao paused, a look of surprise and gratitude on his face. He said softly, "Fengyi, Fengzi, Furong, Xiuxiu, thank you for your hard work."
Nangong Fengzi smiled sweetly, quickly adding, "As long as Brother Xiaoyao is alright, any hardship we endure is worth it."
Ren Xiaoyao asked urgently, "Fengyi, how's the situation with the city defenses? The Liao soldiers..."
Nangong Fengyi's delicate body trembled slightly as she interrupted, "Xiaoyao, you must be hungry. I'll go get you something to eat."
Seeing her intentionally changing the subject, a sense of foreboding crept into Ren Xiaoyao's heart.

(Chapter 8: The Forbidden Palace Incident)

"What happened? Tell me... tell me quickly!" Ren Xiaoyao forced himself to sit up straight, asking impatiently.
"Actually...it's nothing much." Nangong Fengyi lowered her pretty face and said in a barely audible voice, "The Liao army hasn't been able to set foot in Xunfeng City yet. It's just that the soldiers are exhausted from fighting for so long, and the number of casualties is...getting higher and higher."
"Exhausted from prolonged fighting? This... how is that possible?" Ren Xiaoyao exclaimed in astonishment. "All the followers are divided into three shifts, with a four-hour rotation for rest. Their physical strength shouldn't be a problem."
Nangong Fengyi's beautiful eyes flashed with a complex expression as she softly said, "Since you were seriously injured and fainted, the Liao army has adopted a strategy of encircling from all sides and launching relentless attacks day and night, attempting to break the will of the entire city's soldiers and civilians. Initially, they held the city flawlessly with only half their forces, but... but later... later the Liao army's offensive became increasingly fierce, requiring all troops to be mobilized to fight on the city walls in order to barely hold them off."
Ren Xiaoyao pondered for a moment, then muttered to himself, "It doesn't make sense. Xunfeng City is well-fortified with wide moats and ample defensive equipment. Unless the Liao army launches a full-scale attack, 50,000... at most 60,000 or 70,000 would be enough to handle it. Even if Yelü Xiezhen is incompetent, he wouldn't launch a relentless attack day and night."
Lin Yuxiu interjected, "Not at all. The Liao army is using rested troops as a substitute for fatigue, only deploying a few hundred thousand troops each time, with the rest..." "Everyone else is resting in the main camp, but our army isn't so lucky. We're fighting fiercely most of the time. When the enemy finally withdraws, we have to dig trenches, repair walls, or move logs and stones. In short, we're never idle for a moment."
Ren Xiaoyao asked urgently, "Why? Why is our army's fighting strength declining so quickly?"
Nangong Fengyi's beautiful eyes dimmed, and she sighed softly, "Alas, you don't know, three days ago, the five prefectures of Jinzhou, Qingzhou, Weizhou, Qinzhou, and Hezhong sent..." The messengers arrived simultaneously. It turned out that Li Deming, the King of Western Xia, and Yelü Xiuge, the Grand General of Liao
, had each led their armies to attack. The military governors of the five prefectures anticipated defeat and wanted to request our sect to send troops to assist them. However… however, we were also preoccupied with our own troubles.” Shui Furong continued, “Seeing no hope of reinforcements, and with Xunfeng City surrounded on all sides, the morale of the soldiers naturally plummeted… to make matters worse, rumors spread that the position of sect leader should rightfully belong to Hall Master Long, and that you usurped it through treacherous schemes, so you sent Hall Master Long…” "The master went out of the city to ask for help, intending to use the Liao army to kill him and eliminate future troubles."
Ren Xiaoyao gasped, exclaiming, "This...this actually makes people believe it?"
Lin Yuxiu showed a bitter expression and slowly said, "Who told the messenger from Jinzhou to say that he didn't encounter Master Long on the road at all, and to embellish the story by describing the Liao army's sentries and checkpoints at various intersections outside the city as incredibly dangerous, saying that Liao soldiers guarded every three or four zhang, and that the woods and bushes were full of traps, so that not even a sparrow could fly through them, let alone a person. He himself spent several days searching and trying countless methods before finally finding a secluded path that he barely managed to pass through."
Nangong Fengzi frowned and added, "It wouldn't be so bad if he just said that, but the other four messengers all said the same thing, so many followers believed that Master Long had died in the chaos of battle, which deepened their suspicion of you, and naturally the battle got worse and worse."
Ren Xiaoyao pondered: "Did the messengers from the five prefectures enter the city one after another, or..."
Nangong Fengyi's beautiful eyes flashed with unfathomable light as she said casually, "Almost at the same time. What, do you suspect they are spies sent by the Liao army?"
Ren Xiaoyao shook his head and said, "No, when messengers make contact, they need to show letters personally signed by the military governors of each prefecture, and verify the tokens and codes. Disguise is impossible. The Liao army must have calculated the time to open a gap in the encirclement, letting them enter the city at the same time, using the messengers to break our army's morale... The problem is, how could such a simple divisive tactic be fooled by Mr. Zhuge? Could it be..."
Nangong Fengyi said in a slightly tearful tone, "On the night you were injured, Mr. Zhuge was shot in a vital spot by a stray arrow while supervising the battle on the city wall... Waaah..."
Ren Xiaoyao's face drained of color as if he had been punched in the chest, and he exclaimed, "What did you say! Mr. Zhuge... Mr. Zhuge he... he... cough cough..." He was so agitated that he almost couldn't catch his breath.
Nangong Fengyi quickly helped her lover up again, gently massaging his back, and whispered, "Don't worry, Mr. Zhuge is just seriously injured and unconscious... Look, just like you, he'll wake up naturally in a few days."
Ren Xiaoyao felt relieved, but sighed inwardly, "The situation is not optimistic. It seems the only option is to hold the city and wait for Fei Yun to bring reinforcements from Bianjing."
Bianjing Imperial Palace, Zichen Hall.
Today was the bi-weekly court assembly. All officials of the fourth rank and above in the capital were present to pay their respects and listen to the Emperor's inquiries.
Zhao Guangyi, dressed in a dragon robe and wearing a crown with twelve pearl curtains, sat high on the dragon throne.
"Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!" The courtiers in the Golden Palace knelt and shouted "Long live the Emperor!" their voices echoing throughout the hall.
"Rise." Zhao Guangyi's gaze swept over the courtiers, sharp and cold as a sword, truly displaying the regal bearing of a monarch.
"Thank you, Your Majesty!" The courtiers stood in two rows. On the left were military officials, led by the Privy Councilor (equivalent to the current Chairman of the Central Military Commission) and General of the Garrison, Huyan Zan, followed by the Deputy Privy Councilor and General of the Cloud Banner, Cao Bin. On the right were civil officials, led by the Vice Chancellor, Lü Duan, followed by the Vice Chancellor, Wang Ruoqin. The Eighth Prince and Chancellor Kou Zhun were absent because they were in Jiangnan supervising military supplies.
Zhao Guangyi solemnly said, "I intend to lead an army north to recover the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun. What do you, my esteemed ministers, think?"
Lü Duan stepped forward and replied, "The Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun have been part of the Central Plains since ancient times. Nearly sixty years have passed since Emperor Shi Jingtang of the Later Jin Dynasty ceded them to Yelü Deguang
, the ruler of the Khitan. The people have been eagerly awaiting their return to the Song Dynasty. Your Majesty's northern expedition is in accordance with Heaven's will and the people's wishes; this old minister believes it is feasible." Wang Ruoqin echoed, "Since its founding, the Liao Dynasty has always coveted our dynasty." " Recently, we have been preparing our troops for a southward advance. The saying goes, 'Strike first to gain the upper hand, strike later to be controlled.' Our campaign against Liaodong is urgent."
Zhao Guangyi nodded with pleasure, then smiled and looked to his left, saying solemnly, "Do any of you generals have any objections?"
Cao Bin replied, "To be honest, Your Majesty, since the pacification of Later Shu, this old minister has rarely had the opportunity to lead troops in battle. This northern expedition is exactly what I've been seeking."
The generals all agreed, except for Huyan Zan, who remained silent. As a veteran of two reigns, his words carried considerable weight, and his influence in the army was not to be underestimated.
Zhao Guangyi asked with a smile, "General, do you perhaps oppose my campaign against Liao?"
Huyan Zan strode forward and shook his head, saying, "My parents were both killed by Yelü Deguang, and I am irreconcilably opposed to Liao. If Your Majesty launches a northern expedition, I am willing to serve as your vanguard. However, the terrain of the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun is high and easy to defend, and Yelü Xiezhen and Yelü Xiuge have been stationed there with large armies for many years. A hasty attack may not be successful."
Cao Bin laughed and said, "General, rest assured, our dynasty has not been able to survive for twenty years. Our national strength is far greater than before. This time, we can mobilize fifty troops..." " What do we have to fear from a mere Liao army of ten thousand?"
Lü Duan added, "Jiangnan and Jiangbei have enjoyed bumper harvests for three consecutive years, and with the strong support of Tingyuxuan, there are absolutely no problems with logistical support such as provisions, weapons, and warhorses."
Huyan Zan solemnly said, "You two have misunderstood. I was referring to tactical and strategic aspects, not..."
Before Huyan Zan could finish speaking, Zhao Guangyi laughed heartily and said loudly, "Does the General think I would repeat the mistake of relying on my bravery and advancing deep into enemy territory alone?"
Huyan Zan knelt on the ground and respectfully said, "Your subject dares not."
Zhao Guangyi... His eyes flashed with a sharp light, and he solemnly declared, "I will launch a four-pronged attack. The first will be led by Yang Yanzhao, with the Yang family army, from Mozhou directly towards Fangshan; the second will be led by myself, with the Imperial Guards under my command, to attack Shuozhou and Yingzhou; the third will be led by the Grand General, with the troops of various vassal states, to advance on Weizhou and Xinzhou; the fourth… will be led by the Loyal and Brave Prince Long Yinxiao, with 100,000 Heavenly Army troops, to attack Yunzhou and Wuzhou. Finally, all four forces will return to Youzhou to reclaim the Yan and Yun prefectures in one fell swoop!" Huyan Zan was deeply moved and exclaimed, "Your Majesty's troop deployment is flawless. This battle will surely be a great victory! This old minister is convinced..." "I am truly convinced and willing to serve the Northern Expedition with utmost loyalty."
Zhao Guangyi turned to Jing Si and said casually, "'Golden Armor Heavenly King,' please briefly describe the preparations of the Heavenly Pole Sect to the assembled court officials."
Jing Si strode forward and said loudly, "Our sect, following His Majesty's decree, has vigorously reorganized its military preparations. Now, 100,000 troops are ready to be dispatched at any time."
The officials all stepped forward and respectfully said, "Please issue the decree, Your Majesty, to launch the Northern Expedition!"
Zhao Guangyi's gaze suddenly sharpened, and he said in a long voice, "Very well, convey my decree, immediately..."
"Halt! Who are you?" "Get out of the way, I want to go in." A noisy commotion suddenly arose outside the hall.
Zhao Guangyi abruptly stopped speaking, and rebuked in a low voice, "Who dares to make a racket outside the Zichen Hall during the court assembly!" The five guards on duty reported, "It is...it is the Crown Prince Zhongyong."
Before they could finish speaking, Long Feiyun rushed into the hall. The court officials were all taken aback to see her dressed in mourning, and they scattered to both sides. Jing Si's face changed drastically, and his body trembled violently, almost causing him to lose his balance.
Long Feiyun knelt on the ground and cried out, "Your Majesty, Father...Father was assassinated. He died five days ago. Yelü Xiezhen led 400,000 Liao troops to besiege Xunfeng City..." She could no longer hold on and fainted.
Zhao Guangyi was stunned, his face shifting between light and shadow. He stammered, "Yinxiao... Yinxiao... he..."
"Report—General Yelü Xiuge of Liao is launching a major attack on Weizhou, Qinzhou, and Hezhong. Request the court to send reinforcements."
"Report—King Li Deming of Western Xia is leading his army directly towards Jinzhou and Qingzhou. Request the court to urgently allocate provisions."
"Report—Marshal Han Derang of Liao's Southern Expedition is besieging the Three Passes. Request the court to increase military pay to boost morale."
In the blink of an eye, three military reports arrived in succession. Zhao Guangyi's expression changed drastically; his face drained of all color. Suddenly, a sweet taste rose in his throat, and he coughed up blood, collapsing onto the dragon throne.
"Your Majesty, wake up!" "Quickly, His Majesty is suffering from a stroke! Summon the imperial physician!" "Guards, carry the Prince of Zhongyong back to his palace for treatment." The Zichen Palace instantly descended into chaos.

Volume Twenty-Two: Conferring Titles and Generalships, Chapter Nine: Adding Fuel to the Fire.

Late at night, Ren Xiaoyao, enduring his injuries, came to the north city to inspect the defenses. This was the time when the soldiers were most prone to complacency and most vulnerable to a complete collapse under Liao army attacks. Therefore, he preferred to forgo resting in the Taiji Hall to come and encourage the soldiers, boosting morale.
Half an hour earlier, due to the rampant spread of various rumors, the soldiers did not cheer for the arrival of their leader; they merely mechanically saluted him.
Ren Xiaoyao quickly helped up the nearest member of the sect and said solemnly, "My lords, you have worked hard. Now that we are facing a formidable enemy, all brothers in the sect should be treated equally. All formalities can be omitted if possible."
Although the Tianji Sect is a Jianghu organization, it has a clear system and strict hierarchy. The various etiquettes are very complicated. In particular, the way members of different levels of the sect greet the sect leader is completely different. If you count them, there are more than a dozen kinds. The founder of the Tianji Sect, Zhao Kuangyin, was the emperor of the Song Dynasty, and the second sect leader, Long Yinxiao, was a king who was on par with the emperor. There was no way to skip these etiquettes.
Ren Xiaoyao's order to waive the formalities was simply an attempt to build rapport with his soldiers and boost morale. However, the thousands of soldiers on the city wall didn't react strongly, mechanically replying, "Thank you, Master."
Liu Yijun, the only one present who knew the truth, quickly leaned close to Ren Xiaoyao and said apologetically, "Master, the soldiers have been misled by treacherous people. Please... please don't take offense."
Ren Xiaoyao patted his shoulder and sighed, "Alas, I am still inexperienced. I never imagined Yelü Xiezhen would make such a fuss over these matters. If I had taken precautions beforehand, things wouldn't have turned out this way."
"In the art of war, winning hearts and minds is paramount, conquering cities is secondary; psychological warfare is superior to physical warfare." Nangong Bubai strode up to the city wall and proclaimed loudly, "Brothers, you are all seasoned warriors of Tianji, how can you not understand such a simple principle? The Liao people deliberately spread various rumors to undermine our fighting spirit, demoralize our troops, and force us to surrender without a fight!" The
surrounding soldiers lowered their heads, clearly having grasped the profound meaning under Nangong Bubai's guidance.
Nangong Bubai walked to Ren Xiaoyao's side and said in a long voice, "When the Dragon Sect Leader passed the throne to Xiaoyao, I was right there. I witnessed the entire process and heard every conversation. I dare to guarantee with my life that there was absolutely no conspiracy or trickery involved, and the Dragon Sect Leader willingly gave up the position of sect leader."
Nangong Bubai, being a powerful sect leader, carried considerable weight in his words. Upon hearing this, the soldiers near the city walls knelt before Ren Xiaoyao, crying out, "Master, we know we were wrong! Please punish us according to the sect's rules!" Just as
Ren Xiaoyao was about to offer some words of encouragement, Zhang Jinghong rushed up, panting, and said in a trembling voice, "Master, Xu Shangheng, the deputy leader of the White Tiger Hall, opened the south gate to defect to the Liao army. Fortunately, Liu Jinzhong and Qu Chuming stopped him in time, ensuring the south gate remained intact. But… Xu Shangheng led a dozen or so of his confidants and escaped in the chaos, heading straight for the Liao army camp."
Ren Xiaoyao was shocked and asked urgently, "Xu Shangheng has always been loyal, how… how could he betray the sect and flee?"
Zhang Jinghong whispered in his ear, "Xu Shangheng was framed and sentenced to the extermination of his entire family. Although you immediately pardoned him after you ascended the throne, the Liao army spread rumors that we were…" "Under the critical situation of being pressed on the border, we had no choice but to reinstate Xu Shangheng. Even if the siege of Xunfeng City is lifted, we will still kill his entire family."
Ren Xiaoyao asked in astonishment, "When did this rumor start spreading? How come I didn't know?"
Zhang Jinghong said solemnly, "This morning, the Liao army used catapults to throw countless wooden boxes into the city. The wooden boxes shattered on the ground, and countless leaflets were scattered from them. It said... it said..."
Ren Xiaoyao interrupted impatiently, "If that's the case, why not immediately gather all the relevant personnel to explain the matter clearly... Xu Shangheng's open betrayal of the religion has dealt an immeasurable blow to the morale of our army. This... alas!" As he spoke, he gritted his teeth, beat his chest and stamped his feet. He was both angry at Yelü Xiezhen for his despicable and underhanded tricks of sowing discord and hated himself for not taking precautions. The morale of the army, which had been so hard-won, was about to slip back down.
Zhang Jinghong said in a deep voice, "This matter concerns the reputation of the Dragon Sect Leader. How could we dare to make a decision on our own? In addition, you were not yet awake at the time, so we had to delay it for the time being. Who would have thought... I will summon all the elders involved in the case and tell them the whole story of the treacherous plot to kill him." Ren
Xiao shook his head and said, "It's too late. Going to tell them now will only add fuel to the fire. Here's what we'll do... you take back their military power first, and Sect Leader Nangong and I will go and appease the soldiers. By the way, are Xu Shangheng's family members still in the city?"
Zhang Jinghong replied, "Xu Shangheng's mother died early, and his beloved wife recently passed away. His father and son left the city with him... well, the other relatives didn't run away. Should we take them to the city wall and execute them as a warning to others?"
Ren Xiao shook his head and sighed, "If we kill them, wouldn't that be exactly what Yelü Xiezhen wanted? At that time, the people of Xunfeng City will be in a panic, and more and more people will defect and flee." Zhang
Jinghong suddenly realized, "Then I'll send someone to keep an eye on them secretly, so as not to..." Ren Xiaoyao
resolutely said, "No, not only can they not keep watch, but they should also be rewarded handsomely."
Zhang Jinghong asked in surprise, "This... why is that?"
Ren Xiaoyao said in a deep voice, "It's so that the soldiers and civilians of the whole city know that Xu Shangheng's surrender was his personal act and did not harm his relatives. On the contrary, his family did not flee with him, and they should be commended." Zhang
Jinghong, being a clever man, immediately understood the implication. He knew that Ren Xiaoyao was using this opportunity to demonstrate his magnanimity to his brothers and dispel their thoughts of following in Xu Shangheng's footsteps. He quickly ran down the city wall towards Xu Shangheng's house.
Ren Xiaoyao looked around and saw fear in the eyes of all his soldiers. He was secretly alarmed: so far, every move Yelü Xiezhen had made had precisely targeted his weaknesses. Whether it was the troop deployment in the first two days of the battle, or the psychological warfare strategies he had employed after falling into a coma, they were almost flawless. Now, the Tianji Army had gone from being evenly matched with the enemy to being completely passive. If Zhuge Wenjie did not wake up and help the soldiers and civilians of the city devise a plan, could Xunfeng City hold out until reinforcements arrived?
Nangong Bubai saw what he was thinking and raised his voice solemnly: "Soldiers, given the current situation, do you think Xunfeng City can be defended?" A chorus of echoes
rang out; Xu Shangheng's defection and escape had indeed dealt a heavy blow to the confidence of the Tianji Army. Nangong Bubai, his tiger-like eyes blazing, surveyed the crowd and said nonchalantly, "
I believe Xunfeng City is impregnable; holding it for ten days or half a month is no problem at all."
The soldiers all watched coldly, unconvinced.
Nangong Bubai seemed to have anticipated their reaction, smiled slightly, and said loudly, "Consider this, gentlemen: if Xunfeng City cannot be held, is it necessary for me, Nangong Bubai, to stay here assisting Master Ren? It's not that I'm arrogant, but given Tingyuxuan's status in the business world, if I asked the Liao army to open a passage for me, would Yelü Xiezhen dare refuse?" "
Tingyuxuan not only controls the economic lifeline of the Song Dynasty, but also has a large number of businesses in Liao, Western Xia, and Tubo. If Nangong Bubai wanted to, he could launch a war of commerce without bloodshed and guarantee to cripple Liao's domestic commerce within six months. At most, he would only lose 70% of his assets, and wouldn't become the richest man in the world.
The soldiers all agreed that this made sense. If Nangong Bubai were to suffer a disaster, he would lose his immense wealth, which was worth millions. If they were to die, they would only lose their lives. Nangong Bubai was still fearless, so what did they have to worry about?
Nangong Bubai continued, "The reason I stayed is because I firmly believe in Master Ren's command ability, I firmly believe in the unity of the city's soldiers and civilians, and I firmly believe that everyone here can rely on their tenacious fighting spirit to defend Xunfeng City. The Tianji soldiers are the best in the world. This is not a legend or a fantasy, but an ironclad fact." "
Encouraged and spurred on by him, the soldiers regained their spirits, their eyes gleaming with hope.
Ren Xiaoyao strode forward and, in his magnetic and solemn tone, proclaimed, 'Soldiers, I know you are exhausted and some are even seriously wounded, but we must persevere against the Liao army's fierce attack. Why?'
All eyes turned to him.
Ren Xiaoyao roared, 'Because we are protecting not only Xunfeng City, but also the entire Guanzhong Plain, and even the vast land of the Song Dynasty. Every moment we hold out, the people in the rear will have a moment of peace. We must use our lives and blood to defend the honor of the Tianji Sect and the peace of our motherland!'
Tears of excitement shone in the eyes of all the soldiers. Under Nangong Bubai's vigorous encouragement and Ren Xiaoyao's passionate speech, they finally overcame their inner fears and regained their high morale."

URL 1:http://localhost:909/htmlBlog/11703.html

URL 2:/Blog.aspx?id=11703&aspx=1

Previous Page : A Thousand Years of Elegance Discussed in Laughter (Complete) - 15

Next Page : A Thousand Years of Elegance Discussed in Laughter (Complete) - 13

增加

comment Open a new window to view comments

Contact Information

A Thousand Years of Elegance Discussed in Laughter (Complete) - 14

comment Open a new window to view comments