The Blood Crown - Chapter 175

Yan Sikong spent several days studying the terrain and current situation in the Hetao region and engaged in detailed conversations with Yu Shenglang, a general from Da Tong, subtly gathering information about Da Tong’s condition, especially regarding the morale of the soldiers since the fall of the Feng family.

The findings were not far from what he had anticipated. During Feng Jianping’s time, the military funds were sufficient, salaries were never delayed, rewards were generous, and the troops were well-provided for. After every victory, Feng Jianping would distribute the court’s rewards to the soldiers, refusing any for himself. His leadership was fair and impartial, with a harmonious relationship between the military and the civilians. Despite the constant invasions by the Wala and the frequent wars, the unity and strength of the Da Tong forces were impressive.

Now that the Wala had been defeated, the Da Tong army, lacking Feng Jianping, seemed to have lost its spirit and vitality. Both the military and the civilians missed Feng Jianping and the Feng family army deeply.

Although Yu Shenglang did not directly express these sentiments, Yan Sikong could discern them from his tone of disappointment and indirect words. This reassured Yan Sikong considerably.

Most soldiers follow their commanders into battle, driven not by lofty ideals but by the prospect of monetary rewards. If even this cannot be ensured, avoiding desertion is difficult, let alone fighting bravely on the battlefield. It was truly regrettable to see the once formidable Da Tong army now in such a debilitated state.

With his understanding in place, Yan Sikong left Qianzhou and marched his troops towards Mao Ren, where the Wolf King’s rebel forces were camped thirty miles outside the city. He intended to settle in Mao Ren and first meet with Shen Hexuan.

They set out in the morning and arrived by dusk. The city’s defender, Wang Lie, came out to greet them, but Shen Hexuan was not among those who came to welcome them.

Noticing Yan Sikong’s searching gaze, Wang Lie awkwardly said, “Ah, Lord Shen is busy reinforcing the city’s defenses and couldn’t come to greet you, Lord Yan.”

Yan Sikong smiled, “He is still as he was before. It’s Alright. Please, General Wang, lead me to see Lord Shen.”

“Lord Yan, will you not rest for a while? I have prepared dinner.”

“Very well, my men are hungry too. I appreciate General Wang’s hospitality.”

Yan Sikong and his subordinates had a meal with Wang Lie and others. Mao Ren was a small and remote county, similar to Guangning. Despite now being a mere seventh-rank inspector, Yan Sikong was likely the most significant visitor Mao Ren had seen. As an ex-Third-Rank Ministry of War official and the imperial son-in-law, he was treated with utmost respect by Wang Lie and the others.

With the aid of alcohol, Yan Sikong further inquired about Mao Ren’s situation. Wang Lie was eager to share every detail about the recent defensive battle against Feng Ye. His words indicated that, while they admired Shen Hexuan, they had some criticisms of his character.

After the meal, Yan Sikong did not delay and was guided by Wang Lie to meet Shen Hexuan.

It was close to the hour of Hai(9pm-11pm), and most of the citizens had gone to bed, but Shen Hexuan was still overseeing the repair and reinforcement of the city walls.

As they climbed the city tower, illuminated by lantern light, Yan Sikong saw a tall and handsome figure. In the early autumn chill, Shen Hexuan was dressed in simple linen clothes with the sleeves and pant legs rolled up, directing soldiers and lifting heavy objects himself.

“Hey!” Wang Lie called out, “How can Lord Shen be doing this kind of heavy work? Are you all itching for trouble!”

The soldiers looked rather aggrieved.

The figure turned around. Despite his rough appearance, Shen Hexuan’s scholarly and noble demeanor could not be hidden. Though he was dressed like the soldiers around him, his extraordinary presence was evident.

This was Shen Hexuan, whom Yan Sikong had not seen for three years. He appeared more composed and imposing than before. His straight posture and calm eyes seemed to have embodied a steadfast and righteous character.

Upon seeing Yan Sikong, Shen Hexuan frowned.

Yan Sikong took a step forward and bowed deeply, “Brother Shen, it has been years since we last met. I hope you are well.”

Shen Hexuan hesitated for a moment, then returned the bow with a calm demeanor, “All is well.”

Yan Sikong straightened up and looked at Shen Hexuan, feeling a wave of emotions, “I thought I would never see you again in this lifetime. Who would have thought… the mysteries of fate are beyond our comprehension.”

Shen Hexuan nodded, “I did not expect that Lord Yan, who married a noble lady and enjoyed high office in the capital, would come to such a remote place.”

Wang Lie’s expression changed slightly, and he looked quite embarrassed.

Yan Sikong, however, took no offense and instead smiled wryly, “Brother Shen, do not mock me. In the past, we were both on the same examination list, served together in the Hanlin Academy, and shared aspirations. It seems like a dream that, after ten years of ups and downs, we both find ourselves demoted to seventh-rank officials. It feels as though we have returned to where we started.”

Shen Hexuan’s words evoked deep memories. He recalled the days they spent together, both being top scholars and friends. His attitude softened as he murmured, “Yes, it’s like a dream.”

“Brother Shen, I have much to discuss with you. We should plan strategies to repel the enemy.”

Wang Lie quickly interjected, “Lord Shen, I will handle things here.”

Shen Hexuan nodded, “Lord Yan, please.”

Shen Hexuan followed Yan Sikong back to the inn, where attendants had already prepared food and drink. Yan Sikong invited him to sit down, “Brother Shen, you haven’t eaten yet, have you?”

Shen Hexuan did not hesitate and sat down to eat heartily, quickly finishing a steamed bun and alleviating his hunger before slowing down.

Yan Sikong poured wine and raised his cup, “Brother Shen, let’s celebrate our reunion after such a long journey.”

Shen Hexuan hesitated slightly but eventually clinked glasses and drank.

Yan Sikong refilled his cup, but Shen Hexuan stopped him, “No more. There are many things to attend to tomorrow, so it’s not suitable to drink.”

Yan Sikong smiled, “Alright then. Tea will do in place of wine.”

Shen Hexuan, known for his straightforwardness, finally asked, “Did you receive the letter I wrote to you back then?”

“I did,” Yan Sikong replied with a smile, “It was eloquent and powerful, and I can still recite a few lines from it.”

“In that case, you can still…” Shen Hexuan hesitated, “Are you thick-skinned, or open-hearted?”

Yan Sikong laughed heartily, “Both, both. Brother Shen, you were right and did well in scolding me. How could I blame you?”

Shen Hexuan furrowed his brow, “Although you helped to destroy the eunuchs and were the one who brought them down, you betrayed your mentors and engaged in corruption. How do you justify yourself?”

“I do not justify myself. His Majesty has already punished me, and I deserve it,” Yan Sikong said, his smile fading, “You have judged me correctly, Brother Shen.”

Shen Hexuan pointed at Yan Sikong, seemingly at a loss for words.

Yan Sikong understood that someone as upright as Shen Hexuan would never understand him. If he were in Shen Hexuan’s place, he would rather die than align with corrupt forces, preserving his reputation and honor. Yet, for Yan Sikong, achieving his goals through any means, regardless of reputation, honor, or dignity, was a necessity.

“Brother Shen, my defection from the eunuchs was driven by revenge—revenge for my teacher, for King Jingyuan, and for many loyal and wronged officials and generals. I do not deny that I was reluctant to fall with the decaying aristocracy, or even to lose my life. I couldn’t bear to part with my fame, wealth, and glory. I am a shallow and opportunistic person, and I do not expect you to understand,” Yan Sikong spoke candidly.

Shen Hexuan was left speechless by Yan Sikong’s honesty. After a long pause, he finally managed to say, “How can someone like you exist? Do you know what people say about you? Do you truly not care? Have you not considered how future historians will write about you?”

Yan Sikong’s expression darkened slightly, but he restrained himself from letting Shen Hexuan see his inner turmoil. He replied calmly, “I have long since discarded concerns about my reputation. Besides, discussing this now is rather too late. I always hold the world and its people in my heart. If I can use my efforts to benefit the people, perhaps one day my deeds might counterbalance my misdeeds. The historical record might not only contain criticisms.”

Shen Hexuan sighed deeply, “Perhaps. If you truly manage to bring down Feng Ye, it would indeed be a great achievement.”

At the mention of this name, Yan Sikong felt a tightness in his chest. “I plan to visit the enemy camp tomorrow. Brother Shen, you need to thoroughly tell me about the rebel forces you know about.”

When discussing serious matters, Shen Hexuan stopped dwelling on the past and shared with Yan Sikong details about his battles with Feng Ye, the rebel forces, and the defensive and offensive strengths in Mao Ren and the entire Qianzhou region.

Although Shen Hexuan was a civil official and merely a county magistrate, his understanding of the situation was more profound than Wang Lie’s. He had never led troops before, yet he managed to defend the small, precarious city against overwhelming odds.

Feng Ye, before moving his forces to the Hetao region, had anticipated that Qianzhou would be his greatest opponent. He would never have imagined that he would be temporarily stalled by the small county of Mao Ren. However, neither Yan Sikong nor Shen Hexuan believed that Mao Ren could truly withstand Feng Ye. After a battle, the city’s soldiers would suffer heavy casualties. Even though Qianzhou had reinforced its troops, the city walls were severely damaged and could not withstand further assault. Moreover, with limited supplies, the city could be starved into submission. Feng Ye’s inaction was partly due to underestimating Mao Ren and partly due to waiting for Yan Sikong.

The two discussed strategies for the upcoming negotiation all night.

Although Yan Sikong had hardly slept, he was up early the next day, ready to visit the enemy camp. He could not afford to sleep, given the importance of meeting Feng Ye.

At dawn, he called his subordinates and Wang Lie, giving instructions for what should be done in his absence. He explained what should happen if he returned on time or not, if Feng Ye treated him well, imprisoned him, or killed him. He and Shen Hexuan had already discussed these scenarios. He finally instructed them to follow Shen Hexuan’s orders in any situation.

Yan Sikong took with him eight hundred cavalrymen from the garrison army, led by Feng Xiang. Feng Xiang had twice suggested escorting Yan Sikong, but Yan Sikong had declined, saying, “I must go alone. How can an envoy travel with an escort?”

“But Lord Yan has had conflicts with Feng Ye. I worry for your safety,” Feng Xiang said, bowing, “I am under orders to protect you, and I cannot be at ease.”

“I am also on an imperial mission. In comparison, my personal safety is of little concern. Besides, if I dare to venture into the enemy camp, I have my own means of self-preservation. General Feng need not worry.”

Feng Xiang hesitated but eventually gave in.

After making his final arrangements, Yan Sikong went to the stables. Ignoring the groom’s objections, he personally washed his horse, Zui Hong. After the cleaning, Zui Hong, basking in the sun, looked even more striking with its bright red coat and flowing mane, exuding an aura of regal power.

There were few horses in the world that could match this one, and only Feng Ye was worthy of it.

After having lunch, Yan Sikong changed into clean, neat white clothes and, mounted on Zui Hong, left Mao Ren resolutely, heading towards the Wolf King’s camp without looking back.

With Zui Hong’s speed, the thirty miles were quickly covered. From a distance, seeing the black and red wolf flag of the Feng family, Yan Sikong was deeply moved.

The first time he saw this imposing wolf flag was in Guangning, when Feng Jianping led the greatest army in the land. The sight of that fluttering flag had stirred youthful excitement and admiration in him.

With King Jingyuan gone and the Feng family army now rebels, seeing the wolf flag again in his lifetime almost brought Yan Sikong to tears.

Approaching the heavily guarded camp, Yan Sikong felt a hint of trepidation. He tightened his grip on the reins, and Zui Hong slowed down, though it did not stop. Yan Sikong closed his eyes, knowing he could not retreat, would not retreat, and continued toward the camp.

Two miles away, Yan Sikong could already see the arrows protruding from the lookout towers. As he arrived at the camp gate, the guard shouted, “Who goes there? Dismount immediately!”

Yan Sikong dismounted and called out, “I am Yan Sikong, the inspector from Qianzhou, here with the Wolf King’s prized horse, Zui Hong, seeking an audience with the Wolf King.”

The guard, clearly aware of his arrival, showed no surprise and shouted, “Open the gate!”

Yan Sikong took a deep breath, stood tall, and, with a solemn expression, led Zui Hong into the camp.

The soldiers around were captivated by Zui Hong’s graceful form, blood-red coat, and regal aura, murmuring their admiration.

The guard led Yan Sikong through the camp towards the central tent. Along the way, Yan Sikong observed their camp setup, layout, formations, patrols, and defenses, noting that everything was flawless. In military matters, the intricacies of camp layout are deep, and an experienced observer can quickly discern whether a commander is capable or negligent.

Despite being a camp of fifty to sixty thousand troops, it took Yan Sikong a long time to reach the central tent. Zui Hong seemed to become agitated, sensing something. Yan Sikong initially managed to hold onto it, but it became increasingly restless, eventually starting to struggle.

Yan Sikong tightened the reins and admonished, “Zui Hong, stop it. Zui Hong!”

The camp was strictly disciplined, and a runaway horse was a serious matter. Yan Sikong guessed that Zui Hong was reacting to the soldiers around.

The soldiers surrounding the horse were on high alert but, given that this was Feng Ye’s horse, they dared not confront it with weapons. They could only use shields to encircle Zui Hong.

Zui Hong ignored them and continued to struggle. It probably remembered only not to harm Yan Sikong, otherwise, it would have kicked someone away by now. Yan Sikong had never truly experienced Zui Hong’s strength, and although he had seen Feng Ye risk his life to tame it, he was now struggling to keep hold. His hands, burned by the reins, were numb, and he could no longer hold on. He watched helplessly as Zui Hong broke free.

Once the reins slipped from his grasp, Zui Hong leaped and soared over ten feet high, becoming a dazzling red streak that darted past the soldiers holding shields and raced towards the central tent.

Yan Sikong was thrown off balance but landed firmly. He was relieved he didn’t embarrass himself. However, if Zui Hong were to storm into the central tent, it would not be just an embarrassment; it would be a disaster.

As Zui Hong approached the central tent, a figure emerged from within. Clad in battle armor, the figure was tall and imposing.

Yan Sikong’s heart skipped a beat. Though he was still far off and could not see clearly, he knew without a doubt who it was.

The figure suddenly dashed out, rushing like the wind straight at Zui Hong!

The surrounding soldiers shouted in panic, “Wolf King!”

If Zui Hong had charged directly at him, it wouldn’t just be a single person in danger—even an elephant might have been crushed instantly. Yet, without hesitation, the figure stepped forward. As Zui Hong was only a yard away, the figure suddenly sank into his stance, tapped his toes, and leaped into the air, executing a clean somersault. 

The blood-red cloak flapped wildly, resembling a streak of lightning falling from the sky, like a divine being descending to earth. The sight was awe-inspiring, leaving the onlookers in stunned silence. The figure landed firmly on the galloping horse, holding the reins with one hand and gripping the horse’s belly with his legs. Zui Hong’s front hooves lifted off the ground, and the horse reared almost upright, emitting a thunderous roar. The rider remained unmoved and composed.

The surrounding soldiers knelt, their faces full of worship and reverence.

Yan Sikong stood frozen, watching the Tianshan Warhorse, which had now calmed down. Its swishing tail indicated its contentment and submission, a stark contrast to its earlier agitation. The rider, with his back to Yan Sikong, slowly began to turn the horse around.

Yan Sikong felt his breath catch and his body weaken.

Feng Ye…

After three years apart, and from such different paths, Feng Ye was right before his eyes.

In those three years, Feng Ye had completely shed the youthful naivety he once had, transforming into a true, towering man. He was even more imposing and heroic than before. His sword-like eyebrows and starry eyes, broad forehead and thin lips, made him look as handsome as a deity. His eyes were sharp as swords, cold as ice, and his expression was void of any emotion, exuding a chilling aura of hostility.

He was like a wolf lurking in the shadows, with green, glowing eyes fixed on his prey, ready to strike with a deadly blow. He was no longer the young lord of the past; he was now the commanding general with the same domineering aura as his father. He was—the Wolf King.

Yan Sikong felt both unfamiliarity and fear from this version of Feng Ye. None of the countless reunion scenarios he had imagined matched this reality. Feng Ye’s gaze was devoid of warmth or emotion, as if looking at a stranger who had intruded into an enemy camp, ready to tear him apart at any moment.

Feng Ye lightly squeezed Zui Hong’s belly, and the horse, guided by its true master, walked slowly and steadily towards Yan Sikong.

In the cool autumn, Yan Sikong’s back was soaked with sweat. His eyes darkened as Zui Hong drew closer.

Feng Ye looked down at Yan Sikong with meticulous scrutiny, as if he intended to see through to his very bones. Yan Sikong felt a shiver run down his spine.

The surrounding soldiers held their breath, not daring to make a sound.

Yan Sikong’s Adam’s apple bobbed. Trying to steady his nerves, he called out, “Feng Ye…”

Feng Ye narrowed his eyes slightly, “You have quite the audacity to call me by name?” His voice was low, with an intimidating pressure that made one’s heart shudder even without anger.

Yan Sikong felt his breath become shallow, his heart filled with mixed emotions. Trembling, he corrected himself, “Your Highness the Wolf King.”

Feng Ye picked up the whip from the saddle, weighing it lightly in his hand. Without warning, he swung it towards Yan Sikong with a speed faster than the eye could follow.

Yan Sikong was startled. Although he could barely track the whip’s movement, his body could not react quickly enough. The whip struck his face like a slithering shadow. Instinctively, he closed his eyes, and the next moment, he felt a sharp pain around his neck as the whip coiled around it, tightening painfully.

Yan Sikong grabbed the whip with both hands, opening his mouth to gasp for air.

Feng Ye yanked the whip, pulling Yan Sikong closer. His feet nearly left the ground as he tilted his head back, eyes wide open, face turning red. He stared at Feng Ye, trembling with the suffocating pain.

Was this really Feng Ye? The Feng Ye who had been gentle and doting, who cared for him so much? The Feng Ye who, indifferent to others, always smiled and was kind to him? 

No, this was not the Feng Ye he knew…

Feng Ye leaned slightly forward and said coldly, “You’ve come right to my doorstep. Good, it saves me the trouble of finding you.”

Feng Ye loosened the whip, and Yan Sikong fell to the ground. Feng Ye commanded, “Take this man and lock him up. Await my further orders!”

“Yes!”

AN – I finally wrote the scene I’ve been eagerly anticipating, so happy!!

If everyone leaves more comments, I’ll be even more motivated to write! ~ (End of this chapter)