Rong Kingdom, this vast and fertile land, should have presented a peaceful and prosperous scene under the morning sun. However, the capital of Rong Kingdom is now shrouded in the shadow of war, so oppressive that it is hard to breathe.
Inside the palace, in the magnificent, golden hall, the Emperor sat high on his dragon throne, his face solemn. Below him, ministers stood on either side, each with a solemn expression; the atmosphere was as tense as a bowstring about to snap.
"Your Majesty, the border war between Rong and Mu is intense and the two sides are locked in a fierce battle." A general in armor knelt down with his hands clasped, his voice low and hoarse. "Although our army is fighting hard, the Mu army is also fighting desperately, and the outcome is still undecided."
The Emperor frowned slightly, a hint of worry in his eyes: "What are the casualties of our army? Is the food supply still sufficient?"
The general hesitated for a moment before slowly saying, "Your Majesty, our casualties are still within a controllable range, but... the Mu Kingdom has suffered heavy casualties, yet judging from their fighting style, it seems that the soldiers are physically exhausted, as if they have not eaten enough."
These words immediately sparked a flurry of discussion in the court. A minister stepped forward, bowed, and said, "Your Majesty, I believe this is a golden opportunity for our army. The Mu Kingdom is already showing signs of exhaustion; if our army can seize this moment, we may be able to defeat them in one fell swoop. However…" He paused, a hint of helplessness on his face, "But our Rong Kingdom's food supplies are also running low. If the war continues to drag on, I fear we will be unable to sustain a prolonged conflict." He then let out a soft sigh.
Just as everyone was lost in thought, a clear voice suddenly came from outside the hall: "We have food!" The voice was full of energy and had a strong penetrating power, as if it could break through the oppressive atmosphere of the court.
Everyone turned to look in astonishment, only to see Xiao Yichen striding towards them. He was tall and straight, his white robes billowing in the wind, his sword-like eyebrows and bright eyes exuding confidence and untamed spirit. Beside him, Lin Wan'er followed closely behind. She had a beautiful face and bright, lively eyes, and although she was a woman, she possessed an extraordinary air about her.
Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er walked straight into the palace hall. Under the watchful eyes of everyone, Xiao Yichen said loudly, "Your Majesty, Wan'er and I have already purchased all the grain from 'Mu Ji Grain Shop'."
This news was like a pebble thrown into a calm lake, instantly creating ripples. The ministers looked at each other, their eyes filled with surprise and doubt.
The Prime Minister was the first to react, excitedly stepping forward and saying, "Excellent! This is a blessing from Heaven for Rong Kingdom. With this batch of grain, the morale of our army will surely be greatly boosted, and our chances of winning the war against Mu Kingdom will increase significantly!"
A glint flashed in the Emperor's eyes, but he remained calm and asked, "Minister Xiao, please tell me in detail what exactly happened?"
Xiao Yichen bowed slightly and began to recount the events leading up to this. It turned out that several months ago, Xiao Yichen had noticed subtle changes in the food supply within the Mu Kingdom. He keenly realized that this could be a key factor influencing the war between the two countries. Therefore, after discussing it with Lin Wan'er, he decided to investigate secretly.
After a thorough investigation, they discovered that the "Mu Ji Grain Store" in the Mu Kingdom was one of the important hubs for grain circulation within the country. At this time, the "Mu Ji Grain Store" was facing some operational difficulties, seemingly due to cash flow problems with the forces behind it. Xiao Yichen seized the opportunity and decisively took action, using his family's substantial wealth and connections to gradually acquire all the grain from the "Mu Ji Grain Store."
The acquisition process was not without its challenges. Some factions within the Mu Kingdom sensed Xiao Yichen's intentions and attempted to obstruct him. They dispatched numerous individuals to secretly monitor Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, and even plotted several assassination attempts. However, Xiao Yichen's martial arts skills were exceptional, and Lin Wan'er's intelligence was remarkable; they skillfully defused each crisis time and time again.
Once, in a remote valley, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er were escorting a shipment of newly acquired grain when they were ambushed by assassins from the Mu Kingdom. Dozens of assassins in black emerged like ghosts from all sides, their blades flashing and shadows filling the valley. Xiao Yichen showed no fear; he drew his sword, its blade moving like a dragon, weaving freely through the enemy ranks. Lin Wan'er calmly directed the accompanying guards, utilizing the valley's terrain for defense. After a fierce battle, they successfully repelled the assassins, and the grain was safely delivered.
As grain was continuously purchased, the grain market in the Mu Kingdom began to fluctuate. Ordinary people gradually felt the pressure of food shortages, prices soared, and public morale wavered. Meanwhile, the Mu Kingdom's army was severely affected by insufficient food supplies, impacting training and combat operations. Soldiers often trained and fought on empty stomachs, and their physical strength and morale steadily declined.
Back in the court, after Xiao Yichen finished speaking, the Emperor nodded slightly, praising his foresight and decisive action: "Minister Xiao's actions are truly commendable. However, with the war pressing, the most urgent task is to figure out how to utilize this batch of grain to formulate the best battle strategy."
The ministers nodded in agreement, and then a heated discussion ensued. A military general stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, I believe that we should immediately organize an elite force, carrying ample provisions, to launch a surprise attack on the Mu Kingdom. We can catch them off guard, disrupt their defenses, and then launch a full-scale attack to conquer them in one fell swoop."
Another minister offered a different opinion: "While this plan has its merits, it is also very risky. Although the Mu Kingdom is short of food, its army is seasoned and its fortifications must be strong. If the surprise attack fails, our army may be in dire straits. I suggest that we first strengthen our defenses at the border, and at the same time send envoys to the Mu Kingdom to try to negotiate peace with them using food as a bargaining chip. If we can subdue the enemy without fighting, that would be the best strategy."
Everyone expressed their opinions, arguing endlessly. Xiao Yichen listened quietly to the side, pondering silently. He knew that both a surprise attack and negotiations had their advantages and disadvantages. The current situation was like a complex game of chess, requiring careful consideration of every move.
Meanwhile, within the Kingdom of Mu, in the imperial palace, the Emperor of Mu flew into a rage, roaring at his ministers, "Why has our army fallen into such a predicament? Who is responsible for the food supply?"
The ministers trembled with fear, none daring to answer. The Emperor of Mu paced back and forth in anger, knowing full well that without resolving the food shortage, defeat was inevitable. Meanwhile, discontent among the people was boiling over, with small-scale protests erupting across the country.
The generals of the Mu Kingdom's army were also anxiously discussing countermeasures in their camp. An old general sighed, "Our army is currently short of food, and our soldiers are unable to exert their full strength. If the Rong Kingdom launches a large-scale attack at this time, I fear our army will be unable to withstand it."
Another young general clenched his fist and said, "General, are we just going to sit here and wait to die? Why not fight to the death? Perhaps there is still a glimmer of hope."
The veteran shook his head: "We must not act rashly. We need to wait for the country to come up with a solution to the food problem, while strengthening our defenses and trying to buy as much time as possible."
Amidst the tense preparations and anxious anticipation of both nations, the storm of war was imminent. In the streets and alleys of Rong Kingdom's capital, the people felt the approaching threat. They hurriedly closed their doors, stockpiled supplies, and an atmosphere of unease permeated the air. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, however, showed no signs of slackening. They continued to assist the court in preparing for war, training soldiers, and inspecting grain reserves and transportation routes. Xiao Yichen knew that this war was not only a matter of Rong Kingdom's honor and survival, but also a tremendous test of his own beliefs and abilities. In this moment of dramatic change, he had to step forward and provide Rong Kingdom with a glimmer of hope, even if the road ahead was fraught with thorns, he would forge ahead bravely.
As night fell, darkness enveloped the capital of Rong Kingdom, yet the imperial palace remained brightly lit. The Emperor continued discussing battle details with his ministers, while Xiao Yichen stood alone in the palace courtyard, gazing at the starry sky. He silently prayed for the war to end soon, bringing peace and prosperity to the people of both nations. But he also knew that once war broke out, it was like a wild horse, impossible to control. And he could only do his utmost in this chaotic world to write his own legendary chapter.
As dawn broke, the glazed tiles of the Rong Kingdom's palace shimmered dazzlingly in the sunlight, yet they could not dispel the gloom that hung over the court. The ministers had gathered there early, each with a solemn expression, their eyes revealing deep concern for the fate of the nation.
The Emperor sat on the dragon throne, the weariness of a sleepless night faintly visible in the corners of his eyes and brows, yet he still forced himself to maintain a dignified demeanor. At this moment, the entire court was so quiet that only the soft breathing of the crowd could be heard, as if even the air itself had frozen.
"My beloved ministers, I pondered the war with Mu Kingdom for a long time last night." The Emperor broke the silence first, his voice slightly hoarse, "Although Rong Kingdom has received Minister Xiao's help and has food reserves, the situation in war is ever-changing, and we still cannot be careless."
A senior minister stepped forward, bowed respectfully, and said, “Your Majesty is wise. In my opinion, although food is the key, the deployment of our troops and the state of our military equipment must also be carefully considered. Although the Mu Kingdom is exhausted, a lean camel is still bigger than a horse. It still has many capable generals. If our army is not careful, it may still be caught in a bitter battle.”
Everyone nodded in agreement. At this moment, the Minister of War stepped forward, holding a memorial, his expression serious: "Your Majesty, I recently inspected our army's equipment and found that although our weapons are considerable in quantity, some are old and worn, and urgently need repair and replacement. If we are to contend with the Mu Kingdom for a long time, excellent military equipment is indispensable."
"Has the Ministry of Revenue calculated the costs of repairing and updating the weapons?" The Emperor turned to look at the Minister of Revenue.
The Minister of Revenue looked troubled and frowned slightly, saying, "Your Majesty, the national treasury is currently mostly used for war preparations, and grain procurement has already consumed a lot of money. If we were to allocate special funds for the repair and upgrading of military equipment, it would probably strain the treasury and make it difficult to sustain."
A murmur of discussion arose in the court. At this moment, Xiao Yichen stepped forward and said with a firm gaze, "Your Majesty, I am willing to donate a portion of my family fortune to support military needs. I believe that the safety of the nation concerns every citizen, and this is my duty."
His words drew admiring glances from everyone. Lin Wan'er then added, "Your Majesty, I am also willing to do my part. I have some jewelry and ornaments at home that can be converted into silver to help the country."
The Emperor was slightly moved and nodded, saying, "Minister Xiao and Lin Wan'er are very righteous, which pleases me greatly. However, this is not a long-term solution. The Ministry of Revenue still needs to consider the matter carefully and allocate financial resources rationally."
Then, the Minister of Rites stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, I believe that in addition to military and financial matters, our Rong Kingdom also needs to pay attention to the morale of the people. Now that war is imminent, the people are fearful and uneasy. If we can appease the people and inspire their patriotism so that they can fully support the war, our army's chances of victory will increase."
"What good ideas does the Ministry of Rites have?" the Emperor asked.
"I suggest that we hold a ceremony to worship Heaven and pray for blessings in the capital and other places, asking Heaven to bless Rongguo with victory, while also promoting the righteousness of our army and encouraging people to join the army and make contributions to the country. Furthermore, we should provide generous compensation to the families of the soldiers on the front lines so that the soldiers have no worries about their families."
After a moment of contemplation, the Emperor said, "This plan is feasible. The Ministry of Rites shall immediately begin preparations for the sacrificial ceremony to Heaven and pray for blessings. It must be done in a grand and solemn manner to boost the morale of the people."
Just as everyone was discussing the matter, the official in charge of intelligence gathering rushed into the court and knelt down to report: "Your Majesty, according to the latest intelligence, the Mu Kingdom has amassed a large army on the border, showing signs of a large-scale attack. Moreover, although the Mu Kingdom is short of food, they are trying to buy food from other countries at high prices. If they succeed, it will be extremely disadvantageous to our army."
This news further heightened the tension in the court. A general stepped forward and declared loudly, "Your Majesty, I am willing to lead an elite force to the border to block the Mu Kingdom's grain procurement route. We must not allow them to obtain their grain supplies!"
However, the Prime Minister offered a different perspective: "I am well aware of the general's bravery. But this move may provoke discontent from other countries and even draw more nations into the war. The most urgent task for Rong is to first solidify our own defenses, utilize our existing food advantage, find weaknesses in Mu's forces, and then devise a strategy to defeat the enemy."
The general, though unwilling, could only clasp his hands and retreat. The emperor nodded slightly, acknowledging the prime minister's analysis: "The prime minister's words are quite correct. Our Rong Kingdom should prioritize the overall situation and not act rashly."
At this moment, the Hanlin Academy scholar, who had remained silent until now, stepped forward. He cleared his throat and said, “Your Majesty, I believe we can suppress the Mu Kingdom through cultural and public opinion means. Since the Mu Kingdom is short of food, its people will surely harbor resentment. We can secretly send people to spread rumors in the Mu Kingdom, proclaiming the tyranny of its ruler and the injustice of its war, thus inciting unrest within its borders. At the same time, within our Rong Kingdom, we can vigorously publicize the heroic deeds of our army, inspiring the people's fighting spirit and patriotism.”
A hint of appreciation flashed in the Emperor's eyes: "This plan is excellent. The Hanlin Academy can work with the Ministry of Rites to handle this matter. They must be careful to maintain a proper balance and not give others any leverage against them."
As the discussions deepened, various questions and countermeasures were raised. However, every decision faced numerous difficulties and risks, and the anxiety in the court grew increasingly intense. The ministers knew that this war was not merely a military contest, but a comprehensive game involving politics, economics, culture, and many other aspects.
Meanwhile, in the streets and alleys of Rong Kingdom's capital, the people also felt the tense atmosphere of the imperial court. In the markets, people no longer haggled busily as usual, but instead whispered about the news of the war. Many shops reduced their stock and began to hoard daily necessities in case of the uncertainty brought by the war.
A group of young people gathered together, discussing whether they should join the army to serve their country. One of them said excitedly, "When the country is in trouble, how can we sit idly by? I want to join the army and fight to defend our country!"
An old man beside him sighed: "Child, war is cruel. Do you know how dangerous it is? Once you step onto the battlefield, your life or death is uncertain."
The young man answered firmly, "I am not afraid! If Rong Kingdom falls, we will have no peace either. Rather than live a life of ignominy, we would rather die on the battlefield and leave our names in history!"
His words resonated with the young people around him, who all expressed their willingness to serve the country. Some families, however, faced a dilemma: if the breadwinner joined the army, the family's livelihood would be difficult to maintain, but they also understood that if the country were not saved, their families would have nowhere to live.
Inside the palace, the Emperor and his ministers continued their discussions. Time ticked by in the tense atmosphere, each second seemingly carrying the weight of the Rong Kingdom's fate.
"My beloved ministers," the Emperor declared, "I have decided that while strengthening border defenses, we must immediately begin repairing and upgrading our military equipment." He then made his final decision: "The Ministry of Revenue will do its utmost to raise funds, and the Ministry of War will oversee military preparations to ensure their swift completion. The Ministry of Rites and the Hanlin Academy will proceed according to plan, pacifying the people and disrupting the peace of the Mu Kingdom. Minister Xiao and Lin Wan'er will assist me in coordinating the overall situation; I must ensure the absolute safety of my Rong Kingdom in this war."
The ministers answered in unison, "As you command! Your Majesty is wise. We will do our utmost to contribute to the victory of Rong Kingdom!"
With the issuance of imperial edicts, the Rong Kingdom entered a full-scale state of war preparation. Inside and outside the capital, busy figures could be seen everywhere. Soldiers intensified their training, craftsmen repaired weapons day and night, officials of the Ministry of Rites prepared sacrificial rites to pray for blessings, and scholars of the Hanlin Academy wrote propaganda documents. The entire Rong Kingdom resembled a massive war machine, slowly starting up in preparation for the impending brutal war. Behind this lay the worries, expectations, and sacrifices of countless people, all striving for the future of the Rong Kingdom, regardless of whether the dawn of victory or the darkness of defeat awaited them.
In the solemn and imposing court of the Rong Kingdom's palace, a tense atmosphere permeated every inch of the air. The ministers had just received their orders and were each calculating in their hearts how to carry out the emperor's decree, which concerned the fate of the nation. Just then, that clear and slightly unruly voice rang out again: "Your Majesty, I have another plan, which may help Rong Kingdom gain a greater advantage in this war."
Everyone turned to look at the sound and saw Xiao Yichen standing tall and imposing in the center of the hall. He was dressed in white, his black hair flowing freely down his back like a waterfall, tied back only with a ribbon. His sword-like eyebrows slanted upwards, his starry eyes were deep and bright, and beneath his high nose bridge, his thin lips were slightly upturned, a half-smile on his face, exuding an innate confidence and composure, as if the tension and solemnity of the court could not affect him in the slightest.
The Emperor sat up slightly, a hint of anticipation flashing in his eyes: "Minister Xiao, please tell me quickly."
Xiao Yichen bowed slightly and then spoke eloquently: "Your Majesty, although the Mu Kingdom has amassed a large army on the border, its domestic food shortage has already shaken its foundation. I believe that we should strengthen border defenses on the one hand, and send elite squads deep into the Mu Kingdom's territory on the other."
"Go deep into Mu Kingdom's territory? Minister Xiao, this plan is far too dangerous. Mu Kingdom must be heavily guarded. Our small team may not return alive." An old minister said with a frown and a worried expression.
Xiao Yichen smiled calmly: "My lord, you may not know this, but Mu Kingdom is currently focusing most of its energy on border wars and food preparation. Although its domestic defenses seem tight, there must be loopholes. Our elite squads can disguise themselves and blend into the Mu Kingdom's population to secretly investigate the true situation of Mu Kingdom's domestic food reserves and its subsequent military deployments."
“If we can pinpoint the exact location of Mu’s grain reserves, our army can send out small units to launch a surprise attack, burn down their granaries, and plunge them into utter despair.” A ruthless glint flashed in Xiao Yichen’s eyes. “Furthermore, we can spread rumors within Mu’s borders, claiming that our Rong army is about to march straight in, causing panic among the Mu people and disrupting their rear.”
After listening, the Emperor nodded slightly and fell into deep thought. After a moment, he said, "This plan, though risky, does have its merits. Minister Xiao, do you have a suitable candidate to carry out this task?"
Xiao Yichen stepped forward and said respectfully, “Your Majesty, I am willing to personally lead this elite squad. I have studied martial arts since childhood and have a certain understanding of the terrain of Mu Kingdom. Moreover, I have several capable assistants by my side, all of whom are highly skilled in martial arts and extremely intelligent. They will surely be able to help me complete this mission.”
The Emperor gazed at Xiao Yichen, his eyes filled with trust and admiration: "Minister Xiao, your courage is commendable, but I am truly worried about your journey into the lion's den."
"Your Majesty, rest assured, I will be careful and prudent and live up to Your Majesty's trust," Xiao Yichen said firmly.
Lin Wan'er stood by, her eyes filled with worry, but knowing Xiao Yichen's determination, she did not try to dissuade him. She simply said softly, "Yichen, you must return safely."
Xiao Yichen turned to look at Lin Wan'er and smiled gently: "Wan'er, don't worry. I will definitely come back."
Afterward, Xiao Yichen began selecting members for his elite squad. He carefully chose ten soldiers from the Rong Kingdom's army, all highly skilled in martial arts, adept at stealth and close combat. These soldiers all had resolute eyes and were filled with trust and respect for Xiao Yichen.
As they prepared to depart, Xiao Yichen addressed his team members: "Brothers, the journey to Mu Kingdom is fraught with danger. But we bear the hopes and mission of Rong Kingdom, so we must unite as one and adapt to any situation. Our objective is to investigate Mu Kingdom's grain reserves and military secrets, and if the opportunity arises, we will deliver a fatal blow."
"Young Master Xiao, we are willing to follow you, even through fire and water!" the soldiers shouted in unison.
As night fell, Xiao Yichen led his elite squad quietly away from the capital of Rong Kingdom, speeding towards the border of Mu Kingdom. Dressed in black night-clothes, they moved through the darkness like ghosts.
As they approached the border of the Mu Kingdom, they indeed found that the Mu Kingdom had strengthened its border patrols and defenses. Xiao Yichen signaled the team to stop, and they concealed themselves in a grove of trees, carefully observing the movements along the Mu Kingdom's border.
The soldiers of the Mu Kingdom, carrying torches, patrolled back and forth, their defenses tight. Xiao Yichen frowned slightly, and after a moment's thought, he whispered to his team members, "We can't force our way in; we need to wait for the right opportunity."
Time passed slowly, the dark clouds in the night sky gradually dispersed, and moonlight shone down, illuminating the earth. Just then, Xiao Yichen noticed a brief commotion during the changing of the guard by the Mu Kingdom's border patrol team.
"Now!" Xiao Yichen shouted, and charged towards the border of the Mu Kingdom like an arrow. The team members followed closely behind, their figures agile and their movements swift, taking advantage of the shift change to quickly cross the border defense line of the Mu Kingdom.
After entering the territory of the Mu Kingdom, Xiao Yichen led his team cautiously forward. They avoided the main roads of the Mu Kingdom, choosing instead to travel along side paths and secluded valleys to avoid being discovered.
On their journey, they encountered a patrol of soldiers from the Mu Kingdom. Xiao Yichen's eyes sharpened, and he signaled his team members to spread out and take cover. Like cheetahs lurking in the darkness, they silently waited for their prey to approach.
As the patrolmen approached, Xiao Yichen and his team launched a sudden attack. They moved swiftly and precisely, subduing the patrolmen in an instant without making a sound.
Xiao Yichen learned from a patrolman that the Mu Kingdom was indeed making every effort to prepare food, and most of the food was concentrated in a few main granaries, but the patrolman did not know the exact location.
"It seems we need to investigate further," Xiao Yichen said in a low voice.
Continuing their journey, they arrived at a small town in the Mu Kingdom. A somber atmosphere permeated the town; the people looked haggard, their eyes filled with worry. Xiao Yichen and his companions mingled among the townspeople, secretly inquiring about food supplies.
At the town's market, they heard people complaining about soaring food prices and dwindling food supplies. Xiao Yichen's heart skipped a beat; he realized that the food crisis in Mu Kingdom was more severe than they had imagined.
Just then, a commotion arose. Xiao Yichen turned his head and saw a group of Mu soldiers walking towards them. The officer in charge shouted, "Who are you? Why are you lurking here so suspiciously?"
Xiao Yichen was startled, but he quickly calmed down. He stepped forward and said respectfully, "Sir, we are just local people, we just came to the market to buy some things."
The officer sized Xiao Yichen up and down, his eyes full of suspicion: "Hmph, you don't look like locals. Search you!"
Xiao Yichen clenched his fists, ready to act at any moment. Just as the Mu soldiers were about to search them, suddenly, the sound of hooves came from outside the town. A fast horse galloped in, and the soldier on horseback shouted, "The general has ordered an immediate assembly! Enemy troops have infiltrated our territory!"
Upon hearing this, the officer's expression changed. He disregarded Xiao Yichen and the others, and led his soldiers away hastily. Xiao Yichen breathed a sigh of relief; he knew their time was running out. They had to find the Mu Kingdom's granary as soon as possible and complete their mission.
So, Xiao Yichen's team quickened their pace, continuing deeper into the heart of the Mu Kingdom. They proceeded cautiously, avoiding numerous searches by the Mu army, gradually approaching the core area of Mu's grain reserves. Meanwhile, the entire Mu Kingdom was gripped by tension and chaos due to the Rong Kingdom team's infiltration; the shadow of war loomed ever heavier between the two nations, as if a massive storm was about to break.
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