Murong Xuan paced anxiously in his mansion, awaiting news of his subordinates' return. A suffocating atmosphere filled his study; the flickering candlelight illuminated his grim face. Time ticked by, each moment of silence like a heavy pluck at the strings of his heart, fueling his growing restlessness.
Finally, a series of hurried footsteps broke the silence. A trusted aide rushed into the study in a panic, "Your Highness, something terrible has happened! Our men... have all been wiped out!" Murong Xuan's eyes widened, and he roared in disbelief, "How is this possible?! What happened?" The aide trembled as he reported the events in detail, saying that they had just approached the Xiao family's granary when a trap was triggered, and everyone was caught in a large net. Then Xiao Yichen arrived with his guards.
Murong Xuan angrily swept the writing implements off his desk, the sound of shattering porcelain particularly jarring in the quiet study. "Xiao Yichen, you are so cunning!" he said through gritted teeth. But he quickly forced himself to calm down, knowing that anger was useless at this moment and that he had to devise a new plan to compete with Xiao Yichen.
He began to carefully review the entire plan in his mind, trying to find the reason for its failure. "I underestimated Xiao Yichen's vigilance. He set up traps around the granary, so he must have known in advance that someone would try to steal the grain," Murong Xuan muttered to himself. He realized that his previous plan was too hasty, relying solely on the momentary opportunity of throwing a lavish banquet for Xiao Yichen, without fully considering all possible variables.
Therefore, Murong Xuan decided to change his strategy. He knew that to completely defeat Xiao Yichen, he had to approach the situation from multiple angles. First, he needed to gain a deeper understanding of Xiao Yichen's weaknesses and the internal situation of the Xiao Kingdom. "Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will never be defeated." He recalled this famous military maxim.
Murong Xuan began sending out more spies, not only infiltrating the capital of Xiao Kingdom but also planting informants near the General's Mansion to closely monitor Xiao Yichen's every move. These spies disguised themselves in various ways, some as street vendors, some as traveling merchants, and some even infiltrated the Xiao Kingdom's army, all in order to obtain the most valuable intelligence.
At the same time, Murong Xuan realized that he might not be able to achieve his goals alone. He began seeking allies within the Mu Kingdom and in neighboring countries. He personally visited some noble families, enticing them with benefits and power, promising them generous rewards for future expansion. "As long as you cooperate with me and fight against the Xiao Kingdom together, you will share in wealth and glory when my great cause is accomplished," Murong Xuan solemnly declared to the nobles.
In his diplomacy with neighboring countries, Murong Xuan also employed his political maneuvering. He dispatched envoys to neighboring nations, bringing precious gifts and letters of intent for alliance. During secret talks with the envoys, he subtly sowed discord between the neighboring nation and the Xiao Kingdom, exaggerating the threat posed by Xiao and attempting to convince the neighboring nation that an alliance with Murong Xuan was their best option. "The Xiao Kingdom has been expanding its power in recent years, and if left unchecked, it will inevitably threaten your nation's security sooner or later. However, if Murong Xuan joins forces with your nation, we can ensure peace on our borders and gain a greater share of the benefits on this continent." Following Murong Xuan's instructions, the envoys conveyed this message to the rulers of the neighboring nations.
Besides diplomacy and intelligence gathering, Murong Xuan also made meticulous military preparations. He intensified the army's training and personally supervised the soldiers' drills. On the training ground, the soldiers sweated profusely under the scorching sun, conducting various tactical exercises. Murong Xuan stood on a high platform, coldly observing everything, occasionally criticizing and instructing the soldiers on their performance. "Your swordsmanship is not sharp enough, and your shield defensive posture is not stable enough. If you go to the battlefield, how can you defeat the Xiao Kingdom's army with such performance?" he shouted.
He also convened a meeting of the country's military commanders to discuss a strategy for attacking the Xiao Kingdom. At the military conference, the commanders expressed their opinions freely. Some advocated a frontal assault, utilizing the superior numbers of the Murong Kingdom's forces to quickly break through the Xiao Kingdom's defenses; others proposed a flanking maneuver, starting with the Xiao Kingdom's border regions and gradually eroding its territory. Murong Xuan listened attentively to the commanders' opinions, but in his heart, he was contemplating an even more insidious plan.
“Xiao Yichen enjoys great popularity in the Xiao Kingdom. If we launch a direct war against Xiao, we might end up in a bitter struggle. We might as well create chaos within Xiao first, so that Xiao Yichen is preoccupied with his own problems,” Murong Xuan suggested. The generals nodded in agreement.
Therefore, Murong Xuan decided to exploit some of the internal conflicts and discontent within the Xiao Kingdom to incite a popular uprising. He ordered his advisors to fabricate various rumors to slander the Xiao court and Xiao Yichen. These rumors spread rapidly throughout the Xiao Kingdom, with tales such as "Xiao Yichen is hoarding troops and plotting a rebellion" and "The court imposes heavy taxes and disregards the lives of the people," causing widespread panic among the Xiao people.
Meanwhile, Murong Xuan secretly funded some opposition forces in the Xiao Kingdom, providing them with weapons and funds, and encouraging them to rise up against Xiao's rule. He hoped to plunge the Xiao Kingdom into internal strife in this way, thereby creating favorable conditions for Murong's attack.
In preparing for all of this, Murong Xuan did not forget his personal revenge against Xiao Yichen. He knew that Xiao Yichen was the biggest obstacle to his ambitions and had to be eliminated as soon as possible. He secretly trained a group of assassins, all of whom were highly skilled in martial arts and extremely loyal to him. Murong Xuan gave them special training, having them practice simulated Xiao Yichen's martial arts moves and fighting habits.
"Your mission is to assassinate Xiao Yichen, no matter the cost," Murong Xuan coldly told his assassins. He had devised a detailed assassination plan for them, waiting for the opportune moment to deliver the fatal blow.
Meanwhile, in Xiao Kingdom, Xiao Yichen also sensed something amiss. He discovered that the domestic situation was gradually becoming unstable, with various rumors circulating and small-scale rebellions breaking out in some areas. He knew that someone was deliberately manipulating things behind the scenes, but he couldn't find the mastermind for the time being.
On the one hand, Xiao Yichen strengthened domestic pacification and governance. He personally traveled to various regions to explain the court's policies to the people, clarify rumors, and stabilize public sentiment. He also intensified the crackdown on rebellious forces, dispatching troops to quickly quell the rebellion and restore local order.
On the other hand, Xiao Yichen was also strengthening diplomatic relations with neighboring countries, attempting to seek the support of allies. He knew that in this complex situation, Xiao Kingdom alone could not cope. He sent envoys to friendly neighbors to express Xiao Kingdom's desire to strengthen cooperation and jointly address the crisis.
Inside the general's mansion, Lin Wan'er stayed by Xiao Yichen's side at all times, offering him advice and providing him with emotional support. "Brother Yichen, no matter what difficulties we encounter, I will face them with you," Lin Wan'er said firmly. She assisted Xiao Yichen in handling the affairs of the mansion and took care of the soldiers' lives, allowing him to devote himself wholeheartedly to dealing with the crisis.
Murong Xuan's scheme was unfolding quietly; his ambition, like a vast net, was gradually enveloping Xiao Guo and Xiao Yichen. Xiao Yichen, meanwhile, struggled desperately, trying to find a way out of this turbulent undercurrent. The situation between the two nations grew increasingly tense; a larger storm was brewing, and all of this would determine the future fate of this continent.
Murong Xuan stood before a huge military map, which detailed the mountains, rivers, cities, passes, and troop deployments of both the Xiao and Mu kingdoms. His gaze was fixed on the location of the Xiao general's mansion, his fingers unconsciously tapping the table as he pondered various infiltration plans.
Behind him stood several key subordinates of this operation. They all had serious expressions and awaited Murong Xuan's orders. Among them, a general named Zhao Lin spoke first: "Your Highness, the defeat at the granary last time was due to our underestimation of Xiao Yichen's defenses. This time, our infiltration must be even more cautious and thorough."
Murong Xuan nodded slightly and said, "Zhao Lin is absolutely right. We must not only avoid the sentries and lookouts that Xiao Yichen has set up outside the General's Mansion, but also find a way to break through any traps or mechanisms that may exist inside. We must not repeat the failure we suffered last time."
He turned to face the crowd and began to detail the plan for the infiltration operation. "For this operation, we will divide into three teams. The first team will be led by Zhao Lin. You will be responsible for creating some small-scale disturbances outside the General's Mansion to attract Xiao Yichen's attention and make him mistakenly believe that we are going to launch a frontal assault."
Zhao Lin clasped his hands in acceptance of the order: "This humble general will certainly not fail in his mission!"
Murong Xuan continued, "Second squad, your mission is to find weak points in the General's Mansion, such as a relatively loosely guarded side gate or a secluded corner, and then sneak in. This squad needs agile people who are good at stealth. Who is willing to take on this role?"
A man dressed in black named Yingfeng stepped forward. His face was covered, revealing only a pair of cold eyes. "Your Highness, Yingfeng is willing to go. Yingfeng grew up in the mountains and forests since childhood and is skilled in climbing and concealment. He will surely find a way to infiltrate."
Murong Xuan nodded in satisfaction: "Good, Yingfeng, you lead the second team. Once you successfully infiltrate, you must quickly figure out the layout of the General's Mansion, especially the location of Xiao Yichen's residence and study. If you can find any confidential documents or intelligence, that would be even better."
“Third squad,” Murong Xuan’s gaze fell on a burly man named Tie Shou, “led by Tie Shou. You are the main force of this operation, and your primary target is Xiao Yichen’s camp. I have received information that Xiao Yichen has recently been discussing strategies to deal with our Mu Kingdom with some generals in his camp, and there may be important military deployment maps hidden there. You must do everything you can to get into the camp and steal the deployment maps. If you encounter Xiao Yichen, do not engage in prolonged combat; try to delay him and wait for reinforcements from other squads.”
Iron Hand pounded his chest forcefully: "Your Highness, rest assured, I entrust my life to this mission. Even if it costs me my life, I will bring back the deployment map!"
Murong Xuan frowned: "What I want is success, not your lives. Before we begin, make sure we are fully prepared. Yingfeng, tell me your thoughts on the infiltration route."
Yingfeng pondered for a moment and said, "Your Highness, from my observation, the backyard of the General's Mansion is near a grove of trees. The wall there is relatively low, and the branches of several large trees extend into the mansion. I can climb the trees first and then use the branches to swing into the mansion. However, there may also be traps set by Xiao Yichen there, and I need some brothers who are good at breaking traps to assist me."
Murong Xuan looked at a thin man: "Amu, you go with Yingfeng. You are skilled in mechanisms, so make sure Yingfeng infiltrates safely."
Amu bowed respectfully: "Yes, Your Highness."
Then, Murong Xuan said to Tie Shou, "Tie Shou, your team needs to be equipped with the best weapons and protective gear. I will provide you with some specially made hidden weapons, which can be used for self-defense in critical moments and to attack the enemy unexpectedly. Also, you need to familiarize yourselves with the appearance of Xiao Yichen's camp and the surrounding environment in advance so that you can quickly find the target when infiltrating."
Iron Hand asked, "Your Highness, if we are discovered during the infiltration, can we kill them on the spot?"
Murong Xuan's eyes turned cold: "Try not to cause too much of a commotion, but if absolutely necessary, you can use any means necessary to complete the mission. However, remember, your primary task is to steal the deployment map, not to kill people."
After assigning tasks to each squad, Murong Xuan emphasized the timing and signal for the operation. "Tomorrow night, at 3:45 AM, Zhao Lin will lead the first squad to launch a feint attack at the main gate of the General's Mansion. Upon hearing the signal, Ying Feng will lead the second squad to infiltrate from the backyard, while Tie Shou will lead the third squad to find an opportunity to approach the camp. Once successful, we will meet at the designated location outside the General's Mansion and quickly withdraw. In case of emergency, use the hooting of an eagle as a distress signal, and nearby squads must immediately provide support."
Afterwards, each squad began to prepare separately. Zhao Lin led the soldiers of the first squad in a simulated drill at the training ground. They practiced how to create a disturbance and how to deal with Xiao Yichen's guards in order to attract attention.
Yingfeng led the second team to a simulated wall and forest, where he and Amu repeatedly tested infiltration methods and studied how to deal with various possible traps and mechanisms. Amu drew patterns of various mechanisms on the ground and explained the solutions to the team members: "These tripwire mechanisms are usually connected to bells, which will make a sound when triggered. We can use a long stick to probe the location of the rope first, and then carefully untie or cut it."
Iron Hand's team selected weapons from the armory, carefully examining the performance of various sharp swords, powerful bows, and crossbows. Meanwhile, the craftsmen sent by Murong Xuan demonstrated the use of specially made hidden weapons. These weapons resembled throwing darts, but had barbs along the edges and a small poison sac hidden in the center. Once they hit a target, the poison would spread rapidly, rendering the enemy incapacitated within a short time.
Murong Xuan personally oversaw the preparations of each team, knowing full well that this operation could not afford to fail. He felt both a burning desire for success and a deep fear of failure. He constantly reminded himself, "This time, I must succeed. I must make Xiao Yichen suffer."
Meanwhile, inside General Xiao's mansion, Xiao Yichen showed no sign of letting up. He strengthened patrols and defenses, adding more visible and hidden sentries. He also personally inspected the traps and mechanisms within the mansion, rearranging and reinforcing some key locations.
Xiao Yichen said to Lin Wan'er, "Wan'er, after Murong Xuan's defeat last time, he will definitely not let it go. There may be danger in the manor in the near future, so you must stay by my side at all times and do not wander off."
Lin Wan'er nodded obediently: "Brother Yichen, I understand. I won't cause you any trouble. I also want to do my part to protect the General's Mansion."
Xiao Yichen gently stroked her hair: "Wan'er, having you by my side is the greatest support for me."
He then summoned the guards and generals in the general's mansion and said, "Everyone, be alert! Murong Xuan's men could attack again at any time. We must let them know that the general's mansion is not so easily breached."
The generals shouted in unison, "We are willing to serve the general!"
Xiao Yichen began assigning defensive tasks to everyone: "General Li, you lead a team to hold the main gate. If the enemy attacks, you must hold them off for a while and wait for reinforcements. General Zhang, you are in charge of defending the side gate. Be careful to guard against enemy sneak attacks. Also, send several patrol teams to patrol the mansion continuously. If you find anything suspicious, immediately sound the alarm."
After setting up the defensive arrangements, Xiao Yichen was still pondering Murong Xuan's possible actions. He knew Murong Xuan was meticulous, and this infiltration plan would undoubtedly be even more cunning. He simulated various possible scenarios in his mind, considering countermeasures.
"Will Murong Xuan try again near the granary where he failed last time? Or will he take a different approach? Is his target the grain supplies, or other important items in the manor?" Xiao Yichen muttered to himself.
He decided to set up some bait within the mansion, deliberately revealing some weaknesses to lure Murong Xuan's men into a trap. "If they think they've found a loophole in the General's Mansion's defenses, they'll inevitably lower their guard, and then we can catch them off guard and wipe them out in one fell swoop." Xiao Yichen had a plan in mind and began to set up the bait and traps.
As night fell, Murong Xuan's men were making tense preparations, while Xiao Yichen stood ready in the General's Mansion. The entire continent seemed to be awaiting the outbreak of a fierce battle, the outcome of which would have a profound impact on the fate of both the Xiao and Mu kingdoms.
Inside the general's mansion, the lights shone brightly, and waves of laughter and joy filled the air. The Thanksgiving banquet had reached its climax, and everyone was immersed in this rare joy and peace.
On a makeshift stage in the courtyard, performers were putting on a dazzling display of their talents. One performer, dressed in magnificent costume, with her graceful figure and melodious voice, was enacting an ancient love legend. The audience below was captivated, their eyes following the performer's every gesture, frequently uttering gasps of admiration.
In another corner, the jugglers' performance drew gasps of amazement from the crowd. One performer tossed several colorful embroidered balls high into the air, then skillfully caught them with different parts of his body, tossing them back up again, repeating this cycle endlessly. It was as if the balls were being guided by invisible threads, tracing dazzling arcs through the air. Beside him, his companion performed a breathtaking knife-throwing feat; the gleaming knives in his hands moved like obedient sprites, precisely arranging themselves into wondrous patterns on the target without causing any harm to those around them.
Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er moved among the guests, their faces beaming with genuine smiles. They exchanged pleasantries with everyone from time to time, inquiring about their impressions of the banquet. Xiao Yichen approached an elderly general, bowed respectfully, and said, "General Li, your presence at this banquet today truly honors my humble abode. With your many years of experience in battle, I, a junior, still have much to learn from you."
The old general laughed heartily and helped Xiao Yichen up. "General Xiao, you are too kind. Your achievements are evident to all. You are a pillar of our Xiao Kingdom. This banquet was very well organized, allowing us old folks to feel the warmth and vitality of this mansion."
Lin Wan'er, accompanied by several maids, carefully distributed exquisite candies and snacks to the young children. The children's faces lit up with innocent smiles as they received the treats, laughing and running among the crowd, adding a touch of liveliness and dynamism to the lively banquet.
The dining table was laden with a dazzling array of dishes, exuding an enticing aroma. The roasted suckling pig, golden and crispy, had a glistening skin; a single slice revealed tender, juicy meat that released a mouthwatering fragrance. The steamed sea bass, its body intact, was garnished with vibrant green scallions and bright red chili threads; the flesh was tender, smooth, and melt-in-your-mouth. Then there was the braised bear's paw, its rich broth coating every fiber of the meat, offering a mellow and nourishing flavor. All sorts of delicacies from land and sea were on display, showcasing the General's mansion's wealth and generosity.
After several rounds of drinks, the crowd's spirits rose even higher. Some soldiers began to toast each other, reminiscing about the glorious days of fighting side by side. A young soldier stood up, somewhat shy yet full of pride, and said, "Generals, brothers, when I first entered the army, I knew nothing. It was General Xiao who personally taught me how to practice martial arts and how to survive on the battlefield. If it weren't for your guidance, I would probably have died on the battlefield long ago. Today, I toast you, General, wishing you eternal peace and leading us to continue protecting the Xiao Kingdom!" With that, he tilted his head back and drank the wine in his cup in one gulp.
The crowd responded enthusiastically, chanting Xiao Yichen's name and raising their glasses in a toast. Xiao Yichen was deeply moved. He stood up, his gaze sweeping firmly over the crowd. "Gentlemen," he said, "I, Xiao Yichen, owe everything I have achieved today to your support and trust. In these chaotic times, only by uniting can we protect our homes and our country. This toast is for you all!"
Amidst the hustle and bustle, Lin Wan'er quietly tugged at Xiao Yichen's sleeve, signaling him to come with her. Xiao Yichen nodded slightly and followed Lin Wan'er to a quiet corner of the courtyard.
"Brother Yichen, look how successful this banquet is, everyone is so happy, I'm so glad." Lin Wan'er's eyes sparkled with joy.
Xiao Yichen gently held her hand, "Wan'er, it's all thanks to you. Your thoughtfulness filled this banquet with warmth and made everyone in the manor more united."
Lin Wan'er lowered her head slightly, a blush rising on her face. "I'm willing to do anything to help you. However, Brother Yichen, you should still be careful. I always feel that something is hidden beneath this calm."
Xiao Yichen's expression turned serious. "Wan'er, don't worry. I have already given orders to strengthen the security of the manor. No matter what tricks Murong Xuan tries, I will not let him succeed."
Meanwhile, in the shadows outside the General's Mansion, Murong Xuan's first squad, led by Zhao Lin, was quietly approaching the gate. They were all dressed in black night clothes, their faces cold and their eyes filled with a chilling aura. Zhao Lin gestured for them to stop, carefully observing the area around the gate. The guards at the gate stood tall and straight, holding long spears, vigilantly watching their surroundings.
"Listen to my orders and make the biggest commotion, but don't linger. Our goal is to draw Xiao Yichen's attention and create an opportunity for Yingfeng and the others," Zhao Lin whispered to his team.
The team members nodded in agreement. Zhao Lin took a deep breath and shouted, "Attack!" Instantly, the members of the first squad rushed out from their hiding place, brandishing their weapons and charging towards the guards at the gate.
The guards immediately became alert and raised their spears to meet the enemy. "Who goes there? How dare you break into the General's mansion at night!" one of the guards shouted.
Zhao Lin sneered, "Hmph, today is Xiao Yichen's death day!" With that, he brandished his long sword and charged at one of the guards. The guard, fearless, raised his spear to parry, and the two instantly clashed. The other guards quickly surrounded them, engaging in fierce combat with Murong Xuan's men. Shouts of battle shattered the night's tranquility, echoing outside the General's Mansion.
Inside the General's Mansion, Xiao Yichen heard the commotion outside the gate and his expression changed. "Wan'er, stay here and don't move. I'll go check it out." With that, he quickly drew his sword and rushed towards the gate.
Lin Wan'er watched his retreating figure with worry, silently praying for his safety. She knew that the battle against Murong Xuan had finally begun.
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