Inside the General's Mansion, a flurry of activity unfolded. Lin Wan'er, like a composed general, methodically managed all the affairs. She knew that the General's Mansion was like a fortress about to face a storm, and that thorough preparations were essential to withstand any new attack that Murong Xuan might launch.
Lin Wan'er first summoned all the maids and servants in the mansion. Standing in the center of the courtyard, she said in a clear and firm voice, "As you all know, Murong Xuan has sent people to attack us many times recently. The safety of the General's Mansion is closely related to each and every one of us. From now on, we must be more careful and do our job well without the slightest slackness."
The maids and servants nodded, their eyes revealing a hint of tension and determination. Lin Wan'er continued, "Those in charge of cleaning should keep an eye out for any suspicious items or signs in every corner of the mansion; everyone in the kitchen must ensure the safety of the ingredients and must not use food of unknown origin; and the guards at the mansion gate and on patrol must be on high alert and ensure that no strangers are allowed to enter or leave at will."
She personally supervised everyone's movements, moving between the rooms and courtyards. While inspecting the warehouse, she carefully examined every bag of grain and every item of supplies to ensure no one had tampered with them. "This grain is the foundation of the General's Mansion, concerning the livelihood of everyone within. There can be no mishaps," Lin Wan'er said to the warehouse manager.
Meanwhile, Lin Wan'er also focused on strengthening the defenses within the manor. She hired craftsmen to add more sentries and watchtowers around the manor walls to detect enemy movements in a timely manner. More traps and mechanisms were set up at key passages and intersections within the manor; these traps included hidden spikes or concealed holes for firing crossbow bolts, which, once triggered, could deliver a fatal blow to the enemy.
"These traps and mechanisms need to be cleverly designed so that the enemy can't easily detect them, but once they are triggered, we must ensure that they are foolproof," Lin Wan'er instructed the craftsmen.
Lin Wan'er was equally dedicated to training the soldiers. Although she was a woman, she had considerable insight into military training. Every day, she would come to the training ground to observe the soldiers' training and provide guidance.
"Your swordsmanship must become even more formidable. Your strikes must be not only fast but also accurate. On the battlefield, every sword strike can be a matter of life and death," Lin Wan'er said to the soldiers who were practicing swordsmanship. She also personally demonstrated some sword techniques; her movements were light and graceful, yet her swordsmanship was powerful and vigorous, greatly impressing the soldiers.
Besides swordsmanship, Lin Wan'er also emphasized the soldiers' physical training and teamwork skills. She arranged for them to participate in long-distance running and weight training to improve their physical fitness. In teamwork training, she set up various simulated combat scenarios, allowing the soldiers to compete in groups to cultivate their tacit understanding and cooperation.
"You must remember, on the battlefield, you are not fighting alone, but as a team. Only by cooperating with each other can you unleash your maximum combat power," Lin Wan'er emphasized to the soldiers.
Lin Wan'er also had her own methods for intelligence gathering. She dispatched some clever maids and servants, disguised, to infiltrate various corners of the city, keeping an eye out for any news related to Murong Xuan or the whereabouts of suspicious individuals. These informants would regularly return to the General's Mansion to report back to her.
"You must be careful and not reveal your identities. If you find any clues, come back and tell me immediately," Lin Wan'er said to her spies.
While busy investigating Murong Xuan's influence within Xiao State and strengthening diplomatic ties, Xiao Yichen also kept a close eye on the situation at the General's Mansion. He had unwavering faith in Lin Wan'er's abilities, but would also return to the General's Mansion in his spare time to discuss countermeasures with her.
"Wan'er, you've done a great job. Under your management, the General's Mansion is as solid as an impregnable fortress. But we still can't let our guard down. Murong Xuan is cunning and treacherous; he might come up with some new tricks." Xiao Yichen looked at the busy Lin Wan'er, his heart filled with satisfaction and admiration.
Lin Wan'er smiled slightly, "Brother Yichen, you can go and handle things outside with peace of mind. I'll do my best to protect the General's Mansion here."
During a discussion, Xiao Yichen proposed an idea: "Wan'er, I think we can organize a special team within the General's Mansion, composed of highly skilled, quick-witted soldiers and maids. This team is specifically responsible for dealing with emergencies, such as being able to quickly launch an attack and encircle and annihilate enemies if they infiltrate the mansion."
Lin Wan'er's eyes lit up. "Brother Yichen, that's a great idea. I'll go and select suitable candidates and then give them special training."
So, Lin Wan'er began selecting personnel from within the General's Mansion. She chose some soldiers who had performed well in previous battles, as well as some clever and agile maids. These people were brought together to form a special team called the "Shadow Guards."
Lin Wan'er personally served as the instructor of the "Shadow Guards," and she devised a rigorous training program for them. The training included stealth, assassination techniques, and intelligence transmission. Members of the "Shadow Guards" needed to train in various complex environments to improve their combat capabilities.
"You must learn to be like shadows, moving freely in the dark and attacking the enemy unexpectedly," Lin Wan'er said to the members of the "Shadow Guard."
During training, the members of "Shadow Guard" gradually grew into an elite force. They were able to approach their targets silently in the dark and then launch a swift and deadly attack.
As the General's Mansion's defenses were continuously improved, Lin Wan'er felt a little more confident. However, she knew that Murong Xuan's threat still existed, and the war was far from over.
In the Mu Kingdom, Murong Xuan was furious to learn that his mole in the Xiao Kingdom's general's mansion had been exposed and captured by Xiao Yichen. He knew this would have a significant negative impact on his future plans.
"Xiao Yichen, you're incredibly capable, even managing to uncover my spy within your household. But don't be so smug for too long; I'll make you pay the price," Murong Xuan said through gritted teeth.
He decided to accelerate his efforts to find allies within the Kingdom of Mu and in neighboring countries. He personally visited several noble families, engaging in in-depth conversations with them and promising them greater benefits and power in exchange for their support. He also increased his involvement in diplomatic activities with neighboring countries, sending more envoys with more lavish gifts to persuade the rulers of various nations to form alliances with Mu.
"As long as you ally with my Mu Kingdom, we will jointly divide up the territory and wealth of the Xiao Kingdom. You will also have a share in the riches of the Xiao Kingdom." Murong Xuan's envoys conveyed this tempting message to the rulers of various countries.
Thanks to Murong Xuan's efforts, some countries began to waver, seeing the enormous benefits that an alliance with the Murong Kingdom could bring. However, others remained wary of Murong Xuan's ambitions and were unwilling to be easily drawn into the war.
Meanwhile, at the General's Mansion in Xiao Kingdom, Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen continued their preparations. They knew that the General's Mansion would face even more challenges in the future, but they were fearless because they had unwavering faith and mutual support.
Beneath the magnificent palaces of the Mu Kingdom, unfathomable undercurrents surged. The news of Murong Xuan's failed operation was like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, creating ripples that triggered a series of subtle and complex reactions both inside and outside the palace.
In a secluded garden within the royal palace, several high-ranking officials were gathered, conversing in hushed tones. Their expressions were grave, their eyes revealing their concern for the nation's situation and their consideration for their own interests.
"Murong Xuan has really messed up this time. Not only have he suffered heavy losses, but he has also caused our country to lose face in front of the Xiao Kingdom. How His Majesty will deal with him is truly worrying," an elderly minister with white hair said, shaking his head.
"Hmph! He's always been arrogant and domineering, relying on his status as a prince to act recklessly. This defeat is entirely his own fault. However, His Majesty has always favored him, so I'm afraid he won't punish him severely easily," a middle-aged minister said with a frown, expressing his dissatisfaction.
“That may be true, but this incident has had a significant impact. If it is not punished, how can we explain it to the court officials and the people? Your Majesty also needs to consider the stability of the country and the will of the people,” another minister echoed.
Their conversation was overheard by a palace maid hiding behind the flowers. This maid was a spy planted in the palace by a minister, and she knew the importance of this information. So, after everyone had left, she quickly passed on what she had heard.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the palace, Consort Ning, Murong Xuan's mother, paced anxiously within her palace. She knew her son had committed a grave offense; if the emperor were to punish him, Murong Xuan's status and even his life would be severely threatened. Consort Ning was not of noble birth, but through her beauty and intelligence, she had secured a place in the palace and given birth to Murong Xuan. She had always regarded Murong Xuan as her pride and hope, expecting him to one day ascend the throne, thus elevating her status through her son.
"Xuan'er, Xuan'er, how could you be so reckless? What should we do?" Consort Ning murmured to herself, tears welling in her eyes. She decided to personally go to see the King and plead for her son.
After carefully dressing up, Consort Ning went to the king's study. She knelt on the ground and said, sobbing uncontrollably, "Your Majesty, I have failed in my duty to raise my son, which has led Xuan'er to commit a grave mistake. However, Xuan'er is young and impetuous, and he is only thinking about the hegemony of the Mu Kingdom. It's just that his plan was slightly careless this time. I beg Your Majesty to consider his past merits and loyalty and to punish him leniently."
King Murong Hong sat behind his desk, his face grim as he looked at Consort Ning. He was indeed furious at Murong Xuan's actions, but Consort Ning's pleas for leniency had put him in a dilemma. Murong Xuan was, after all, his son, and he held considerable power and support in the court. A harsh punishment might cause unrest within the court; but letting him off easily would fail to appease the public.
"Consort Ning, please rise. I will consider this matter carefully; you need not say anything more," Murong Hong said helplessly.
After expressing her gratitude, Consort Ning slowly rose and left the study. She knew that the King had not immediately agreed to a lenient sentence, and Murong Xuan's fate remained uncertain. She decided to use her connections behind the scenes to garner more support for her son.
In the power struggles of the court, there was another force that could not be ignored: the eldest prince, Murong Han. Murong Han had always coveted the throne, believing that Murong Xuan's existence was the biggest obstacle to his ascension. He was secretly pleased with Murong Xuan's defeat, seeing it as a perfect opportunity to weaken Murong Xuan's power.
In his residence, Murong Han summoned his trusted advisors to discuss their next move. "Gentlemen," Murong Han said smugly, his eyes gleaming with ambition, "Murong Xuan's defeat presents an opportune moment for us. We must spread rumors in the court, inciting more discontent and skepticism towards him. At the same time, we must also win over some wavering ministers to strengthen our ranks."
The advisors nodded in agreement. "Your Highness is wise. We can start by examining the reasons for the failure of this operation, criticizing his poor command and waste of national resources, making the people pay for his mistakes. This will surely resonate with the court officials and the people," one advisor suggested.
"Yes, this is an excellent plan. In addition, we must closely monitor His Majesty's movements and see what his attitude is towards Murong Xuan. If His Majesty intends to severely punish Murong Xuan, we might as well give him a push behind the scenes; if His Majesty intends to protect him, we must find a way to change His Majesty's mind." Murong Han pondered for a moment and said.
Thus, Murong Han's influence began to operate covertly within the court. They spread rumors and slandered Murong Xuan's reputation. Some ministers and common people, unaware of the truth, began to feel resentment and disgust towards Murong Xuan, and his prestige and support in the court gradually declined.
Murong Xuan himself also sensed the unusual atmosphere in the palace. He knew he was now in a precarious position and had to take action as soon as possible to turn the tide. On the one hand, he actively pledged his loyalty to the king, presenting his newly revised detailed plan against the Xiao Kingdom, attempting to prove that he still had value. On the other hand, he also began to counter Murong Han's conspiracies, exposing some of Murong Han's illegal activities and ambitions, trying to make the king and ministers see Murong Han's true colors.
"Father, although I suffered a defeat this time, I have deeply reflected on my experience and learned from it. I have devised a new plan, which, if implemented, will surely defeat Xiao Yichen and expand the territory of the Mu Kingdom. Please review it, Father." Murong Xuan respectfully presented the plan to the king.
The king took the plan and read it carefully. He found that Murong Xuan's new plan did indeed have some merit, and his attitude towards him softened. "Xuan'er, it is commendable that you can adjust your mindset and rethink your plans so quickly. I will consider your plan," Murong Hong said.
Meanwhile, Murong Xuan was also secretly investigating Murong Han's weaknesses. He dispatched his trusted subordinates to delve into Murong Han's past deeds, finally discovering that Murong Han had secretly colluded with some foreign forces, intending to seek personal gain. After obtaining the evidence, Murong Xuan did not rush to make it public, but waited for the best opportunity.
Caught in the vortex of power struggles within the Mu Kingdom's court, various factions vied for control, each refusing to yield. The fate of the nation teetered on the brink of collapse amidst their infighting. At this time, the Mu Kingdom faced an unprecedented crisis, beset by internal court intrigues and external tensions with the Xiao Kingdom.
In the general's mansion, Xiao Yichen had been deep in thought, staring at the map depicting the border between the Mu and Xiao kingdoms. He knew that to completely thwart Murong Xuan's conspiracy, relying solely on defense and diplomatic alliances was insufficient; he had to take the initiative and find the key flaw in Murong Xuan's plan. And this key might be hidden in those overlooked details.
That day, Xiao Yichen interrogated Murong Xuan's captured subordinates again. His gaze was piercing as he stared intently at Ying Feng, trying to glean any useful information from his expression. "Ying Feng, you and I both know that Murong Xuan's ambitions won't end here. If you can reveal some crucial clues now, I can guarantee the safety of your family. Otherwise, once Murong Xuan's power is gone, do you think he'll still care about the lives of his subordinates?"
Yingfeng snorted coldly and turned his head away. "Xiao Yichen, you don't need to waste your time. I will not betray His Highness."
Xiao Yichen frowned slightly. He knew Yingfeng was a tough nut to crack, but he wasn't going to give up easily. He stood up and paced slowly. "Do you think you can protect Murong Xuan by sticking to your principles? Do you know that he hasn't had a smooth ride in the Mu Kingdom's court? Now, due to his repeated defeats, he's caught in a power struggle. Your loyalty to him might just make you a sacrifice in his attempt to save the king."
Yingfeng's body trembled slightly; clearly, Xiao Yichen's words had touched upon his deepest anxieties. But he remained silent, gritting his teeth.
Seeing this, Xiao Yichen continued, "I have received news that some of Murong Xuan's allies in the country are beginning to waver. In order to regain support, he will definitely take a desperate gamble. And you people imprisoned here are just a burden to him. He is in dire straits himself, so why would he risk coming to rescue you?"
Cold sweat gradually appeared on Yingfeng's forehead, and he began to struggle internally. Xiao Yichen pressed his advantage, "As long as you reveal the key to Murong Xuan's next plan, or his secret stronghold within the Mu Kingdom, I will not only ensure the safety of your family, but also give you a chance to reform."
Yingfeng remained silent for a long time before finally speaking slowly, "I only know that Your Highness once had a secret meeting with a mysterious person in the secluded forest on the border of Mu Kingdom. That mysterious person seemed to have some important intelligence about Xiao Kingdom, but I don't know the specifics. I also don't know the identity of that mysterious person."
Xiao Yichen's heart skipped a beat; this might be an important clue. He immediately ordered his men, "Investigate whether there are any unusual occurrences near the secluded forest on the border of Mu Kingdom, and whether any suspicious individuals have been seen recently."
Just as Xiao Yichen's men were heading to the border of Mu Kingdom to investigate, Lin Wan'er brought news. She hurriedly entered the study and said, "Brother Yichen, I've found some clues in the city. There are some suspicious merchants who frequently visit a secluded inn, and they seem to have some connection with Mu Kingdom."
Xiao Yichen raised his head, his eyes filled with anticipation. "Wan'er, you did a great job. How did you discover all this?"
Lin Wan'er smiled slightly, "My informants in the city noticed that these merchants were acting suspiciously, and the goods they were carrying did not seem to be ordinary products. So they secretly followed them and notified me as soon as they entered that inn."
After a moment's thought, Xiao Yichen said, "It seems we need to conduct a thorough investigation of that inn. Perhaps Murong Xuan's conspiracy is hidden behind these merchants."
He personally led a squad of soldiers, disguised, and quietly approached the inn. The inn was located in a secluded corner of the city, with a somewhat eerie surrounding. Xiao Yichen ordered his soldiers to disperse and surround the inn, while he, along with two trusted confidants, disguised themselves as guests and entered the inn.
The lobby of the inn was dimly lit and filled with a pungent smell of alcohol. Several burly men sat in a corner, their eyes warily scanning everyone who came in and out. Xiao Yichen casually walked to the counter and said to the innkeeper, "Innkeeper, give us three superior rooms."
The innkeeper looked up at Xiao Yichen and the others, a strange glint in his eyes, but he quickly returned to normal. "Sir, I'm sorry, we only have two rooms left."
Xiao Yichen became suspicious, sensing that the innkeeper seemed to be deliberately making excuses. But he remained calm and said, "Two rooms it is then."
As the waiter led them upstairs, Xiao Yichen deliberately feigned curiosity and asked, "Waiter, I see that your inn is located in a remote area, but business seems to be quite good."
The waiter smiled and said, "Sir, you may not know this, but although our inn is in a bit of a remote location, the prices are reasonable, and we often have merchants traveling from all over staying here, so business is not bad."
Xiao Yichen nodded. "Oh, I see. What kind of businesses do those merchants do?"
The waiter's expression changed slightly, and he stammered, "I don't know much about it either. It's not appropriate for us servants to ask too many questions about their affairs."
Xiao Yichen knew he wouldn't be able to get any more information from the waiter, so he decided to explore the inn again that night.
As night fell, Xiao Yichen had two trusted men guard his room while he used his lightness skill to quietly move through the inn. He discovered an entrance to a basement in the inn's backyard, but the entrance was locked with a large padlock. Just as Xiao Yichen was about to try and unlock it, he suddenly heard footsteps. He quickly hid in the shadows nearby.
Several men in black carried a heavy box out of another room in the inn and headed towards the basement. One of the men in black said, "This cargo must be hidden well; it's an important item concerning His Highness's important affairs."
Another man in black said, "Don't worry, this basement is well hidden; no one will find it."
Xiao Yichen's heart stirred. He decided not to alert the men and wait until they left before trying to get into the basement to investigate.
After the men in black carried the box into the basement, they locked the door and left. Xiao Yichen waited until they were out of sight before emerging from the shadows. He carefully examined the lock and discovered it was a specially made lock, difficult to open using ordinary methods.
He returned to his room and consulted with his confidants. "There's definitely something important hidden in this basement, but the lock is very difficult to open. We need to find someone skilled in lock picking."
His confidants all nodded in agreement. Xiao Yichen thought of a famous locksmith in the city and decided to seek his help the next day.
The next day, Xiao Yichen found the locksmith and briefly explained the situation. The locksmith hesitated for a moment, but under the lure of Xiao Yichen's generous reward, he agreed.
The locksmith followed Xiao Yichen to the inn. He carefully examined the lock, then took out his tools and began to pick it. After some effort, the lock was finally opened.
Xiao Yichen cautiously entered the basement, where he found it filled with various weapons and supplies, as well as some letters. He picked up the letters and examined them, discovering that they were communications between Murong Xuan and some nobles from the Mu Kingdom, as well as other national powers. The letters contained their plans to unite against the Xiao Kingdom, and some intelligence regarding the Xiao Kingdom's border defenses.
Xiao Yichen was overjoyed; he had finally found an important clue. But he also knew that things were far from simple. He had to bring this intelligence back to the General's Mansion as soon as possible to discuss countermeasures with Lin Wan'er, and at the same time, he had to report the situation to the King so that Xiao Kingdom could make full preparations to meet the greater challenges to come.
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