Inside the Mu Kingdom's palace, the atmosphere was as oppressive as the calm before a storm. The Mu Kingdom's emperor sat on the dragon throne with a gloomy expression, listening to his ministers' reports on the war at the front. His brows were furrowed, and his eyes revealed anxiety and despair.

"Your Majesty, our Mu Kingdom is now in dire straits in the war against Rong Kingdom. Rong Kingdom's army is launching a fierce offensive. Although our army is fighting desperately, we have suffered heavy casualties. Our border defenses have been breached in many places, and the problem of food shortages at home is becoming increasingly serious. The people are full of complaints. If we do not find a solution soon, we may face the danger of national extinction." An old minister stepped forward and said with trembling voice.

The Emperor of Mu slammed his fist on the armrest of his dragon throne and roared, "Do you think I don't know all this? But what are we to do now? As ministers, isn't one of you able to come up with a way to save this crisis?"

The ministers exchanged glances, all bowing their heads in silence. At this moment, the Foreign Minister stepped forward and cautiously said, "Your Majesty, I believe that given the current situation of our Mu Kingdom, the only way out is to seek help from neighboring countries, which may offer a glimmer of hope."

A glimmer of hope flashed in the eyes of the Emperor of Mu, but then dimmed again: "Would the neighboring countries be willing to send troops to help? The relationship between Mu and them has always been delicate, and Rong must have already taken diplomatic action against them."

The Foreign Minister replied, “Your Majesty, although there are many difficulties, we cannot sit idly by and wait for our doom. I am willing to lead a delegation to visit the neighboring countries, explain the advantages and disadvantages to them, promise them great benefits, and win their support.”

After a moment of contemplation, the Emperor of Mu nodded helplessly: "That's the only way. My dear minister, quickly prepare for the visit and do everything in your power to secure reinforcements for Mu."

"Yes, Your Majesty." The Foreign Minister accepted the order and left.

Led by their foreign minister, the Mu delegation embarked on a journey to seek aid. Their first stop was the neighboring state of Zhao. Zhao was a powerful northern state with a strong military, and its ruler, Zhao Hong, was an ambitious and shrewd monarch.

After the Mu delegation arrived in the capital of Zhao, the Foreign Minister immediately requested an audience with Zhao Hong. Zhao Hong received them in the palace.

After bowing respectfully, the Foreign Minister said, “Your Majesty, our Mu Kingdom is currently suffering from the invasion of Rong Kingdom, with war raging and our people devastated. Mu Kingdom and Zhao Kingdom have always been friendly neighbors, and their fates are intertwined. If Mu Kingdom is annexed by Rong Kingdom, Zhao Kingdom’s borders will also be threatened. Your Majesty is wise and would not want to see such a situation occur. Therefore, I have come to earnestly request Your Majesty to send troops to help us. Mu Kingdom is willing to reward you with a large sum of money and, after the war, form a permanent alliance with Zhao Kingdom, providing Zhao Kingdom with the greatest preferential treatment and support in trade, military affairs, and other aspects.”

After listening, Zhao Hong frowned slightly and said slowly, "I have heard about the war between Mu and Rong. However, this matter is of great importance, and I need to discuss it with my ministers before making a decision. You may stay at the guesthouse for now and wait for news."

The Foreign Minister was overjoyed, thinking there was hope, and quickly said, "Thank you, Your Majesty. We await good news."

However, after the Mu Kingdom delegation left, Zhao Hong immediately summoned his ministers to discuss the matter. One minister advised, "Your Majesty, although Mu Kingdom is in a difficult situation, Rong Kingdom is currently gaining momentum and has already made diplomatic overtures to our country. If our country rashly sends troops to help Mu Kingdom, we may offend Rong Kingdom and trigger an unnecessary war. Furthermore, although the great benefits promised by Mu Kingdom are tempting, we must consider whether they can be fulfilled."

Another minister chimed in, "Your Majesty, in my opinion, we should observe for a while and wait until both Mu and Rong are weakened before sending troops. Then we can reap the benefits."

After listening to his ministers' opinions, Zhao Hong had already made up his mind. He said to his ministers, "What you all say is very true. We cannot easily agree to the request for help from the Mu Kingdom. Let's appease them first and see how the situation develops."

Therefore, the Zhao state adopted a delaying tactic towards the Mu state delegation, treating them warmly on the surface while actually delaying their response.

The Mu delegation waited in Zhao for many days, but seeing no sign of Zhao's ruler sending troops, they grew extremely anxious. The Foreign Minister decided to request an audience with Zhao Hong again.

"Your Majesty, the situation in Mu is extremely dire. Rong's army is advancing daily. If we do not receive aid from Zhao, Mu will perish. Your Majesty is merciful; how can you stand by and watch the people of Mu suffer such a calamity? Please make a decision as soon as possible," the Foreign Minister pleaded earnestly.

Zhao Hong said with a troubled expression, "My dear minister, please don't be impatient. It's not that I don't want to send troops to help, but there are many domestic affairs that need to be handled. Moreover, sending troops requires preparing provisions and mobilizing troops, which is not something that can be done overnight. I will make arrangements as soon as possible. Please wait patiently for a while longer."

The Foreign Minister knew that Zhao Hong was just giving him the runaround, but he had no choice but to leave the palace in disappointment.

Seeing no hope in Zhao, the Mu delegation had no choice but to head to the next country—Wei. Wei was a prosperous commercial state, and its ruler, Wei Qi, focused on economic development while being relatively cautious in military affairs.

After arriving in Wei, the delegation from Mu also explained their request for assistance to Wei Qi and made generous promises of benefits.

After listening, Wei Qi pondered for a moment and said, "The war between Mu and Rong is a conflict between two countries. Wei has always adhered to the principle of neutrality and does not want to get involved in the war. However, I also deeply sympathize with Mu's plight. If Wei is to send troops, Mu must first pay a huge sum of money to compensate Wei for the economic losses it suffers from sending troops."

Upon hearing this, the Foreign Minister looked troubled: "Your Majesty, Mu is currently facing financial difficulties and cannot afford such a huge military expenditure. However, if Your Majesty can send troops to help, Mu will definitely do its best to compensate Wei after the war and provide Wei with the greatest convenience in trade, so that Wei's commercial interests in Mu will far exceed this military expenditure."

Wei Qi remained unmoved: "Words are meaningless. How can I believe Mu Guo's promise? Without military funds, Wei Guo will find it difficult to send troops."

The Mu delegation's plea for help from Wei has also reached a stalemate. The Foreign Minister is extremely anxious, knowing that Mu has little time left to waste.

Just as the Mu Kingdom's delegation was encountering setbacks in various countries, the Rong Kingdom also learned of Mu Kingdom's request for assistance. The Rong Kingdom's emperor immediately summoned his ministers to discuss countermeasures.

Xiao Yichen advised, “Your Majesty, although the neighboring countries may not readily send troops to aid Mu, we should not be complacent. I believe we should send envoys to these countries to explain Rong’s position: this war was provoked by Mu, and Rong is fighting to protect its country and people; it is a righteous army. On the other hand, we can offer these countries some benefits to encourage them to remain neutral and not get involved in the war.”

The Emperor of Rong nodded approvingly: "Minister Xiao's words are quite right. I will immediately send you as an envoy to persuade the various countries. You must prevent Mu from obtaining reinforcements and ensure Rong's advantage in the war."

"As you command, Your Majesty. I will do my utmost." Xiao Yichen accepted the order and left.

Xiao Yichen led the Rong Kingdom delegation to Zhao Kingdom first. He met with Zhao Hong and said neither humbly nor arrogantly, “Your Majesty, the Mu Kingdom has provoked a war without cause, invading our Rong Kingdom's borders, burning, killing, looting, and committing all sorts of atrocities. Our Rong Kingdom had no choice but to fight back in self-defense. Now that the Mu Kingdom has been defeated, it is seeking aid everywhere, attempting to drag more countries into the war and disrupt peace. Your Majesty is wise and will surely see through the Mu Kingdom's wolfish ambitions. Rong Kingdom is willing to maintain friendly relations with Zhao Kingdom, cooperate in trade, and jointly promote the prosperity of both countries. Furthermore, Rong Kingdom will strengthen its defenses in the border areas to ensure the security of Zhao Kingdom's borders and prevent the flames of war from spreading to Zhao Kingdom.”

After listening to Xiao Yichen's words, Zhao Hong weighed the pros and cons and felt that it would not be wise to send troops to help the Mu Kingdom at this time. He said to Xiao Yichen, "The Rong Kingdom envoy is right. The Zhao Kingdom has always advocated peace and is unwilling to be easily involved in war. The Zhao Kingdom will remain neutral and will not take sides."

After receiving Zhao Hong's reply, Xiao Yichen breathed a sigh of relief and immediately set off for the State of Wei.

In Wei, Xiao Yichen also explained Rong's position and attitude to Wei Qi, and expressed Rong's willingness to further cooperate with Wei in commerce, open more trade ports, reduce tariffs, and promote economic exchanges between the two countries.

Taking into account the commercial interests with Rong State and the risks of sending troops, Wei Qi ultimately decided to remain neutral.

Despite Rong's diplomatic efforts, Mu's requests for assistance from neighboring countries were repeatedly thwarted. The Mu delegation, met with cold shoulders and rejections in various countries, returned to Mu in disgrace.

Upon learning that his plea for help had been in vain, the Emperor of Mu was struck dumb and collapsed onto his dragon throne. He knew that the fate of Mu was hanging by a thread, and now Mu was left to face the attack of Rong alone. Defeat in this war seemed inevitable, and endless darkness and an unknown destiny awaited Mu.

While the Mu Kingdom's delegation traveled among various countries seeking aid but repeatedly encountered setbacks, the Rong Kingdom's diplomatic delegation, led by Xiao Yichen, busily shuttled between neighboring countries, actively engaging in diplomatic mediation in an effort to consolidate its own diplomatic advantages and completely cut off Mu Kingdom's hopes for foreign aid.

Xiao Yichen and his entourage were the first to arrive in the southern state of Chu. Chu was a vast and resource-rich land with a flourishing culture, and its ruler, Chu Feng, was renowned for his wisdom and ability to weigh pros and cons. When the Rong Kingdom delegation arrived in Yingdu, the capital of Chu, they received a warm welcome from the Chu side. However, Xiao Yichen knew that this was merely a diplomatic formality; the real contest was yet to come.

In the Chu court, Xiao Yichen respectfully bowed to Chu Feng and began his diplomatic address: "Your Majesty, the war between Rong and Mu was not without cause. Mu has long coveted Rong's borders, and recently launched a brazen invasion, plunging the people of Rong into the flames of war and causing immense loss of life and property. Rong's dispatch of troops this time is a last resort, solely to protect its homeland and safeguard peace."

Chu Feng nodded slightly and said with a smile, "I have also heard what the Rong Kingdom envoy said. However, war is a complex matter, and Chu Kingdom has always valued peace and does not wish to be easily involved in the conflicts of other countries. I wonder what Rong Kingdom has come to advise us on this occasion?"

Xiao Yichen remained calm and spoke eloquently: "Your Majesty is wise, and Rong Kingdom is well aware of Chu Kingdom's commitment to peace. Therefore, Rong Kingdom hopes that Chu Kingdom will continue to maintain neutrality and not be misled by Mu Kingdom's plea for assistance. If Chu Kingdom can clarify its position at this time, Rong Kingdom will be extremely grateful. To demonstrate our sincerity, Rong Kingdom is willing to strengthen cultural exchanges with Chu Kingdom, exchanging scholars to promote the prosperity of both cultures. Rong Kingdom's silk, tea, and other specialties will also be traded with Chu Kingdom at preferential prices to enhance economic ties between the two countries."

Chu Feng pondered for a moment and said, "Rong's proposal is quite attractive. However, Chu has always valued balance in diplomacy. If we only favor Rong, it may draw criticism from other countries."

Xiao Yichen was prepared and immediately responded, "Your Majesty's considerations are comprehensive, and Rong Kingdom understands Chu Kingdom's position. Rong Kingdom is not asking Chu Kingdom to take sides, but only hopes that Chu Kingdom can view this war fairly based on the facts. After the war, Rong Kingdom will actively assist Chu Kingdom in expanding its influence in the surrounding areas and jointly maintain regional peace and stability."

Upon hearing this, Chu Feng's eyes flashed with admiration: "The Rong Kingdom envoy is indeed eloquent. I need to discuss this with my ministers before making a decision."

Xiao Yichen understood that this was a common tactic in diplomatic negotiations, but he remained calm and respectfully said, "Your Majesty is wise. The Rong Kingdom delegation awaits good news."

While awaiting Chu's reply, Xiao Yichen was not idle. He actively engaged in private exchanges with Chu's ministers, explaining Rong's position and sincerity, and understanding Chu's internal thoughts and interests. Through a series of diplomatic activities, Xiao Yichen gradually gained some support and understanding in the Chu court.

Meanwhile, other members of the Rong delegation also launched active propaganda activities among the people of Chu. They told the Chu people the truth about the war between Rong and Mu, showcased Rong's culture and specialties, and increased the Chu people's goodwill towards Rong.

After several days of discussion, Chu Feng summoned Xiao Yichen again. Chu Feng said with a smile, "Envoy of Rong, after careful consideration by myself and my ministers, Chu has decided to remain neutral in the war between Rong and Mu. Chu appreciates Rong's sincerity and attitude and hopes that the two countries can continue to have friendly exchanges after the war."

Xiao Yichen was overjoyed, but still maintained a humble attitude: "Thank you for Your Majesty's wise decision. Rong Kingdom will certainly keep its promise and work hand in hand with Chu Kingdom."

After successfully securing the Chu state, Xiao Yichen led his delegation to the Qin state in the west without delay. Qin was a military power with a fierce and warlike populace, and its ruler, Qin Ba, was a man of great talent and ambition who closely monitored the situation of neighboring countries.

The Rong Kingdom delegation arrived in Xianyang, the capital of Qin, and sensed a strong military atmosphere. In the Qin palace, Xiao Yichen addressed Qin Ba with neither servility nor arrogance: "Your Majesty, the war between Rong and Mu is crucial to the peace and stability of the region. Mu's aggression has disrupted the existing peaceful order, and if allowed to continue, it may trigger even greater turmoil. Although Rong is fighting valiantly, it still needs the understanding and support of other nations."

Qin Ba looked intently at Xiao Yichen and said, "I have been paying attention to the war in Rong Kingdom. Qin Kingdom has always revered military strength, and I value strength more in determining the outcome of wars. If Rong Kingdom wants to gain Qin Kingdom's recognition, it needs to prove that it has sufficient ability to deal with Mu Kingdom."

Xiao Yichen, well aware of Qin Ba's character, confidently stated, "Your Majesty, Rong has gradually gained the upper hand in the war. Rong's army is well-trained, well-supplied, and possesses brilliant strategic command. Rong also hopes to exchange military technology with Qin, learning from Qin's advanced military experience to enhance its own strength. Furthermore, Rong can share some of its western trade resources, such as minerals, with Qin to promote the economic development of both countries."

After listening, Qin Ba nodded slightly: "Rong's idea is good. But if Qin wants to support Rong, Rong needs to provide Qin with certain military conveniences after the war, such as jointly establishing a military defense system in the border area to prevent other potential threats."

After a moment's thought, Xiao Yichen said, "The Rong Kingdom can consider His Majesty's request. However, military cooperation must be based on equality and mutual benefit. The Rong Kingdom hopes to discuss the specific details of cooperation with the Qin Kingdom to ensure that the interests of both sides are protected."

Qin Ba laughed loudly: "The envoy from Rong is indeed courageous. Very well, I agree that Qin will remain neutral in the war between Rong and Mu, and I look forward to military cooperation with Rong after the war."

Xiao Yichen successfully completed his diplomatic mission in the Qin state, and he led his delegation to other countries. In diplomatic negotiations with various nations, Xiao Yichen fully utilized his wisdom and diplomatic skills, formulating corresponding diplomatic strategies based on the different characteristics and interests of each country.

Some countries prioritized economic interests, so Xiao Yichen appealed to them with trade preferences and resource sharing; some countries worried about the spread of war, so Xiao Yichen emphasized Rong's defensive capabilities and willingness to peace; some countries were interested in cultural exchange, so Xiao Yichen vigorously promoted Rong's culture and facilitated cultural integration.

Thanks to the diplomatic efforts of the Rong Kingdom's delegation, more and more countries chose to remain neutral in the war between Rong and Mu. Mu had originally hoped to change the course of the war by seeking help, but it did not expect Rong's diplomatic counterattack to be so swift and effective.

Within Rong Kingdom, the emperor, his officials, and the people were overjoyed upon learning of the diplomatic mission's success. The emperor highly praised Xiao Yichen and his team's achievements in court: "Minister Xiao and his diplomatic mission have worked tirelessly, traveling to various countries, and successfully secured a diplomatic victory for Rong Kingdom. This is a blessing for Rong Kingdom and a powerful guarantee for our army's operations on the front lines."

The ministers echoed his sentiments, expressing their admiration for Xiao Yichen's diplomatic skills. The people of Rong Kingdom were also strengthened in their faith in their nation, believing that under the wise leadership of the court and the valiant fighting of the soldiers on the front lines, Rong Kingdom would surely achieve final victory in this war.

At this time, the State of Mu was plunged into even deeper despair. With no hope of external aid and facing severe food shortages and low morale within its ranks, the fate of Mu seemed shrouded in a heavy gloom, with no glimmer of hope in sight. Meanwhile, the war between the States of Rong and Mu was gradually entering a new phase under these diplomatic circumstances, with the balance of power seemingly tilting irreversibly in Rong's favor.

With Rong's successful diplomatic maneuvering, Mu found itself unable to seek aid, and the war situation between the two countries increasingly tilted in Rong's favor. Now, a crucial battle is about to unfold, and the entire continent seems to hold its breath, awaiting the coming storm.

At Rong Kingdom's border camp, tents stood in rows, stretching as far as the eye could see, like a forest forged of steel. Soldiers bustled about among the tents, carrying out final pre-battle preparations. Weapons were polished to a gleaming shine, shimmering coldly in the sunlight; sacks of provisions were neatly stacked, exuding the fresh scent of grain, the ample reserves demonstrating Rong Kingdom's logistical superiority.

General Li strode confidently through the camp, his gaze sharp as he meticulously inspected every detail, offering encouragement and guidance to his soldiers. "Soldiers," he declared, "tomorrow's battle concerns the glory and future of Rong. We have diplomatically cut off Mu's external aid; now is the time for us to deliver the fatal blow!" General Li's deep, powerful voice resonated throughout the camp like a booming bell. The soldiers stopped what they were doing and shouted in unison, "Fight for Rong! We will be invincible!"

Meanwhile, within the Mu Kingdom's camp, the atmosphere was exceptionally oppressive. The soldiers looked haggard, their eyes revealing exhaustion and confusion. Prolonged food shortages had weakened their bodies, yet they persisted in their final preparations for battle. The Mu Kingdom's generals sat together, discussing countermeasures, but worry was etched on every face.

“General, our army’s morale is low and our supplies are insufficient, while Rong Kingdom has a strong and well-equipped army. How should we fight this battle?” A young general couldn’t help but break the silence, his voice filled with despair.

Veteran General Su Ran frowned and said heavily, "Things have come to this point, and we have no other choice. Only by fighting to the death can we perhaps have a glimmer of hope. In tomorrow's battle, we must concentrate our forces and focus on defending the main direction of Rong's attack, trying to buy as much time as possible and find their weaknesses."

The other generals nodded in agreement. Although they knew the odds of victory were slim, as generals of the Mu Kingdom, they bore the heavy responsibility of defending the country and could not back down under any circumstances.

At this critical moment, Xiao Yichen stood alone on a hill outside the Rong Kingdom's camp, overlooking the entire battlefield. His eyes were deep and calm as he pondered every detail of tomorrow's battle. He knew that although the Rong Kingdom held the advantage in all aspects, the Mu Kingdom was by no means an easy opponent to defeat. They would inevitably struggle desperately in their predicament, making it destined to be an extremely fierce battle.

"Yichen, what are you thinking about?" Lin Wan'er's voice came from behind. She walked gently to Xiao Yichen's side, her eyes filled with concern.

Xiao Yichen turned his head slightly, looked at Lin Wan'er, and smiled: "I'm thinking about the tactical arrangements for tomorrow's battle. Although the Mu Kingdom is at a disadvantage, their generals are quite shrewd, so we must not be careless."

Lin Wan'er nodded slightly: "I believe in you, Yichen. You will definitely lead Rong Kingdom to victory. However, war is too cruel, and I really don't want to see too many casualties."

Xiao Yichen gently held Lin Wan'er's hand and comforted her, "Wan'er, I understand. But for the peace and tranquility of Rong Kingdom, we must win this war. I will do my best to minimize casualties and end this war as soon as possible."

The two stood quietly on the hill, watching the sunset gradually disappear into the distance, as night enveloped the entire land. The lights in the camp slowly lit up, like twinkling stars. However, this seemingly peaceful night could not conceal the tension and cruelty of the impending war.

Back in his tent, Xiao Yichen convened a final pre-battle meeting with his generals. Inside, the atmosphere was solemn and serious. The generals sat around the sand table, their eyes fixed intently on Xiao Yichen.

"Gentlemen, tomorrow's battle will be the decisive one, determining the fate of both Rong and Mu." Xiao Yichen's voice was deep and resolute as he gestured across the sand table, explaining the battle plan in detail. "Our army will attack in three columns. General Li, you will lead the main force in a frontal assault on Mu's defenses, using overwhelming numbers and firepower to suppress them and draw their main force into the fray. General Zhao Hu, you will lead the light cavalry to flank Mu's defenses, searching for weaknesses and launching surprise attacks to disrupt their plans. General Qian Feng, you will lead the infantry as a reserve force, ready to support the front lines at any time, while also guarding against possible counterattacks from Mu."

The generals nodded in agreement.

"During the attack, all units must cooperate closely and maintain smooth communication. Once a weakness is discovered in the Mu Kingdom, we must strike decisively and not give them a chance to breathe," Xiao Yichen continued. "In addition, our archers must provide fire support from the rear, paying attention to controlling the rhythm and angle of their arrows to inflict maximum casualties on the Mu Kingdom's manpower."

"Young Master, could the Mu Kingdom be plotting something?" a general asked worriedly.

Xiao Yichen frowned slightly: "The Mu Kingdom is now in dire straits, and they are likely to resort to desperate tactics. Therefore, we must be careful when attacking and not venture too deep rashly. If we encounter any unusual situations, we must adjust our tactics in time."

After the meeting, the generals returned to their camps and urged their soldiers to rest and conserve their energy for the next day's battle. Xiao Yichen, however, remained awake for a long time, repeatedly pondering the battle plan in his tent, silently praying for a successful battle the following day.

At the Mu Kingdom camp, Su Ran was also giving his soldiers a final pep talk. He stood on the high platform, looking at the exhausted soldiers below, his heart filled with mixed emotions.

"Soldiers, tomorrow we will face the powerful Rong Kingdom. Our nation is at a critical juncture of life and death; our homes and our loved ones await our defense." Su Ran's voice was somewhat hoarse, but full of strength. "I know you are tired and hungry, but we are soldiers of the Mu Kingdom, and our duty is to defend our country. Even if we fight to the last man, we will never retreat!"

The soldiers listened silently, a fighting spirit gradually igniting in their eyes. Although they knew tomorrow's battle would be extremely difficult, at this moment, they held only one belief: to fight to the very end for their country!

Night fell, and the entire battlefield was silent, broken only by the occasional chirping of insects. Yet, beneath this silence lay an undercurrent of deadly intent and tension. Soldiers from both Rong and Mu awaited dawn in the darkness, awaiting the start of the crucial battle that would determine the fate of their nations. Whether it was Rong's unwavering confidence or Mu's desperate gamble, the impending battle was shrouded in uncertainty and suspense, and the wheels of history were about to turn ever onward in this clash of blood and fire.