Chapter 19

Over a hundred li to the northwest of Jianjia, at a river beach on the edge of the Qian River. The river breeze caresses the bank while the reeds sway with a gentle rustle. A man, about twenty-four or twenty-five years old, paused to gaze into the distance, his brows drawn together as he said, “Today is already the tenth day, and Your Highness has still not contacted us.”

This is Captain Han Xi, the leader of the Qingzhai Guards. In truth, that isn’t entirely accurate—by now, the Qingzhai Guards are no longer what they once were, and Han Xi is no longer a commander under the Great Chu. Unlike ordinary soldiers, the men of the Qingzhai Guards are unwaveringly loyal to Wei Jing and are largely unburdened by family ties. Once the so-called news of treason was announced by imperial edict, the entire battalion was thrown into an uproar. Seizing the opportunity while those whom the late emperor had arranged were busy taking over the northern army, they did not hesitate to leave the main camp. They immediately disguised themselves and stealthily set off toward the capital to rescue their lord. Before reaching the capital, however, news of his exile spread, and so they hastily changed their route. Unfortunately, due to the lack of precise intelligence, they were ultimately one step too late. By the time they caught up, Wei Jing and Shao Qing had already been forced to plunge into the Qian River.

Thus, this troop has been relentlessly moving along the upper reaches—while also dispersing some men to leave secret signals—until now.

Han Xi was so anxious that several large blisters appeared on his mouth. His black cloth attire was streaked with dust, and his face showed an expression of intense worry and exhaustion.

“All I hope is that Your Highness is now hidden away in a secluded place, recuperating, so that he hasn’t noticed the secret marks.”

Standing with Han Xi were three other men: two tall fellows in fitted, martial attire—one being the former Protector General Zhang Yong and the other Tiger Tooth General Chen Qi—and a scholarly man in a gray cloth robe with a long beard, the former military commander Ji Huan.

Among Wei Jing’s old ten “Tiger Generals,” Zhang Yong and Chen Qi were two of them. Like Han Xi, these two were ordinary military household youths who Wei Jing personally promoted. Their fathers had all perished at the hands of the Tatars, leaving them with few attachments. In recent years, however, they have both started families, though their wives and children remain quietly stationed at the frontier.

As for Ji Huan, he was one of Wei Jing’s strategic advisors. He had come originally, motivated by his admiration for Prince Qi—and his initial allegiance was not to Great Chu. His loyalty has always been with the former. When the sudden upheaval occurred, he immediately contacted Zhang Yong and the others to depart.

Near the river beach, quite a few commoners were stationed as guards. Although their attire varied, from the way they stood to their overall demeanor, each subtly bore the marks of a military background.

Zhang Yong, known for his fiery temper, burst out angrily, “Damn that emperor! This isn’t right at all!”

Who could disagree? They knew all too well the immense effort and sacrifice their lord had made to quell the Tatars—no one understood that better than they did.

However, Ji Huan replied in a low voice, “Sir, please watch your words. Our priority now must be to find Your Highness; we cannot afford to let any unnecessary complications arise!”

Even though our own men have the area tightly secured, we must not become complacent—and besides, habitual cursing can so easily slip out.

Grumbling, Zhang Yong fell silent and asked, “Sir, what do we do next?”

The three men stared intently at Ji Huan. After a pause, he said, “Your Highness might indeed be hidden in a secluded place recuperating from his injuries, but it’s also possible that after reading the secret mark, he has simply not yet contacted us.”

As for falling into the river and dying, no one mentioned it—not because it was taboo, but because they had an inexplicable confidence that Wei Jing would not die so easily.

This time, they had brought over more than three thousand people. If even one or two spies planted by the new emperor had infiltrated the group, the consequences would have been unthinkable.

“Let us not be impatient.” After Ji Huan finished speaking in an understated tone, he turned to Han Xi and asked, “Chengping, after examining the men below as I instructed, have you reached any conclusions?”

“I have selected over a hundred individuals and have ordered them to be closely observed. If there really are any moles among us, we should receive word in the coming days.”

The Qingzhai Guards originally numbered nearly five thousand. These more than three thousand people had already been sifted through several times; upon receiving Ji Huan’s instructions, Han Xi, ever meticulous, picked out another hundred-plus of them.

While they were talking, sudden shouts erupted from downstream along the riverbank. The four frowned and hurried over, only to see several comrades pinning a man in blue against one side of the embankment. On closer inspection, it was Zhang Kuo—the squad leader of the sixth team.

“Zhang Kuo secretly hid this item by the riverbank and even left a covert mark.”

One of the comrades handed over an irregular piece of cloth cut from an inner garment. Han Xi and the other three took it and discovered that several words had been scrawled on it in messy blood.

As usual, there has been no contact.

“You damned thief! How dare you secretly send messages out!” Zhang Yong flew into a rage. Taking several brisk steps forward, he kicked Zhang Kuo squarely in the chest. Boasting natural, immense strength, Zhang Kuo howled pitifully, spitting blood and immediately falling unconscious.

However, Ji Huan seized Zhang Kuo’s hands to examine him and noticed seven or eight tiny bite marks on two of his fingers—the earliest of which had long since healed.

A chill ran through his heart. “Our movements are probably still under their control. Let’s leave quickly—we must not stay any longer!”

Fortunately, His Highness did not contact them!

…

Wei Jing and Shao Qing naturally had no idea about Han Xi’s and the others’ current situation. They encountered the plum blossom marks several times along the road but decided not to act on them for now.

After traveling for several days, they left Jianjia far behind. That evening, Kou Xuan asked, “There’s a small town ahead. Shall we stop at an inn?”

Shao Qing lifted the carriage curtain and confirmed that there indeed was a small town ahead—smoke gently curling from the chimneys. It was modest in size but, thanks to its location along the main road, surprisingly prosperous.

Wei Jing replied, “Yes.”

Kou Xuan responded and immediately called out loudly to Yan Ming at the front. The two donkey carts proceeded toward the town in single file.

Shao Qing glanced again toward the carriage draft before lowering the curtain.

Speaking of Kou Xuan, he was indeed an interesting character. Ever since leaving Hexiang, with the manhunt growing increasingly intense outside, he hadn’t shown any signs of abnormality. On the contrary, he had become even more courteous toward Wei Jing and Shao Qing. His politeness peaked after they passed the first checkpoint that day—in fact, from then on, he looked to Wei Jing for leadership.

Kou Xuan chose an inn and hurriedly pulled the two donkey carts inside. He ordered the attendants to unload the carts and feed the animals, and the whole group then moved into the upper room of the inner courtyard.

Gradually moving away from the lower reaches of Qian River, the patrols became noticeably less rigorous. An attendant informed them that the soldiers had already conducted their daytime inspections and certainly wouldn’t come tonight—so they could expect a sound sleep. This was quite good. Although Wei Jing had the means to ensure no information leaked, it was best to avoid any troublesome matters if possible.

“Go wash up; I’ll change your dressing in a little while.”

Due to security restrictions, Shao Qing had been sharing a room with Wei Jing. After a considerable amount of time, she eventually got used to it—in the end, it wasn’t awkward since they simply slept on opposite sides without disturbing one another.

The upstairs room was decent. It was divided into an inner and an outer space, with a large bathing tub moved into the inner space. She quickly washed and got herself ready, then came out to attend to Wei Jing. After he finished washing, she went back inside carrying the wound medicine.

Wei Jing’s injuries had almost healed—only the worst one along his collarbone remained. However, even that scab was already loosening; by the looks of it, in a few days, it should fall off. He could move freely now, and his abilities had nearly recovered to their peak.

Shao Qing’s sense of security greatly increased. With a delighted smile, she sprinkled the medicinal powder onto his scab and said, “Yan Ming’s medical skills are really not bad.”

Wei Jing was shirtless, revealing his broad shoulders and narrow waist; his well-defined muscles flowed smoothly with tremendous explosive power. Yet his body bore plenty of scars—some fresh, but most were old ones. With swords and arrows, it’s hard to imagine that a prince could accumulate so many wounds. It clearly shows that in his over five years of military service, he had always led from the front.

For a moment, Shao Qing felt a twinge of pain as she suddenly understood his deep-seated resentment even more.

“Mm.”

Looking down at the wound Shao Qing had neatly bandaged, Wei Jing put his clothes back on and pulled her over to inspect her temples. Seeing that the bruising had completely cleared away—with no trace remaining—he relaxed and asked, “Does it still hurt?”

“Once the bruising is gone, it naturally won’t hurt.” Shao Qing smiled in reply. Wiping her hands, she rolled onto the bed, stretched her waist and legs, which had grown numb from all the bouncing, and said, “That Kou Wenchang seems remarkably astute and in tune with the times. If he and Yan Ming can continue like this, once we get to Pingtao, we’ll have an extra ally—and that would be perfect.”

She sincerely hoped that the two would join them—one skilled in medicine and the other nimble—since the locals in Pingtao were unfamiliar with the area and could really use such assistance. On the other hand, the Kou family had also calmed down, not failing to live up to the original bond between the two sides.

Knowing what she was thinking, Wei Jing spoke frankly, “Kou Xuan is a clever man—it all comes down to his decision.”

That’s right—Kou Xuan sensed something and knew that Wei Jing’s destination was Pingtao. At this critical moment, it would be best if he pledges allegiance, as their interests would align, and Wei Jing could keep an eye on him. If he chooses not to pledge allegiance, he likely has other plans in mind. There are only two possible paths—one to the left and one to the right, with no other alternatives. It all depends on Kou Xuan’s decision.

“Don’t worry, I’ve got this.” In truth, Wei Jing didn’t attach excessive importance to the matter; after all, regardless of the other party’s decision, he could handle it with ease.

“Mm.”

Shao Qing shrugged. Alright, she’ll leave everything to him—She’s not one to overthink these details. Besides, he promised that if there was no defection, he would never kill the Kou family, so she trusted he wouldn’t deceive her. She had merely asked, never imagining that Kou Xuan’s decision would come even faster and more decisively.

Weary from the journey, Shao Qing was extremely drowsy. She had just pulled the quilt over herself and was about to sleep when, barely after closing her eyes, she heard two gentle knocks at the door.

Wei Jing, his expression as calm as ever, said, “It’s Kou Xuan. I’ll step out for a while; you go to sleep.”

After speaking in a measured tone, he rose and left for the outer room.

Shao Qing no longer felt any desire for sleep. This was the first time she had heard Kou Xuan knock at the door at night, and a sudden premonition seized her. She immediately perked up her ears to listen.

……

Wei Jing opened the door. As soon as Kou Xuan entered the room, he immediately bowed.

“Given this opportunity, I have had the honor of following Brother Yang for some time and am wholeheartedly convinced. If Brother Yang does not forsake me, I am prepared to serve you like a loyal hound or a faithful steed!”

After bathing and changing, Kou Xuan dressed neatly and wore an earnest expression. Once he finished speaking, he knelt and bowed deeply with utmost reverence. He truly felt moved at heart, and watching how effortlessly Wei Jing passed through the secure checkpoint—with the searches becoming ever more stringent along the way—only steeled his resolve further. Recalling certain clear facts about his own situation, he couldn’t help but break into a cold sweat.

Immediately, he decided to side with Wei Jing. Just a few days ago, when the searches were so strict that he feared eavesdroppers could be lurking behind walls, he had dared not make any move. Now that the situation had eased, he came without a moment’s hesitation.

Reflecting on past events, he had always worried that mere words could not fully express his determination. After his respectful bow, he solemnly swore, “Heaven above, I hereby pledge: from now on, I shall be utterly loyal to Brother Yang. Should I betray you, may five thunders strike me, and may even our ancestral spirits find no peace in the underworld!”

In those times, people revered heaven and earth—such oaths were entirely different from those of later generations. Moreover, Kou Xuan even invoked his deceased ancestors, clearly expressing the resoluteness of his heart.

Wei Jing kept his steady gaze on the top of Kou Xuan’s head. When the other had finished speaking, he silently raised an eyebrow. Then, with a change in expression, he stepped forward and helped Kou Xuan to his feet.

With a beaming smile of delight, he said, “Excellent!”

“With Wenchang’s assistance, our future endeavors will surely be twice as effective with half the effort.”

“Kou Xuan truly honored!”

The two newly acquainted host and guest exchanged pleasantries for a while. Finally, Kou Xuan said, “It’s late; I dare not disturb my lord’s rest.”

Wei Jing nodded.

This turned out to be a mutually gratifying alliance—Kou Xuan’s wish had been fulfilled, his face beaming with delight. Yet just before he departed, he couldn’t help but add, “My lord, Cunshan has a peculiar temperament, but his character is outstanding. For now, he dislikes being constrained; given time, he will undoubtedly come over to your side.”

Before arriving, he had even attempted to persuade Yan Ming—but Yan Ming merely scoffed, remarking that he was just a doctor, incapable of offering strategies, so there was nothing worth recruiting.

Wei Jing replied, “No problem.”

Seeing that Wei Jing was not displeased, Kou Xuan quietly exhaled in relief, quickly cupped his hands in salutation, and withdrew.

……

Wei Jing then returned to the inner room, disrobed, and settled down to rest. He noticed Shao Qing propped up by the bedside, watching him with wide-open eyes and a gentle smile. Arching an eyebrow, he asked, “Are you really that happy?”

Though his earlier words and conduct had been impeccable—seemingly delighted by Kou Xuan’s alignment—in truth, even after the other’s solemn oath, he had not taken it at face value. He resolved to keep a careful watch.

But for now, having Kou Xuan join them has its benefits. They would soon reach Pingtao, and many trivial matters still needed handling. Now that their interests were aligned, Kou Xuan was far more reliable than any stranger in Pingtao.

Thus, with tonight’s outcome, Wei Jing felt quite satisfied.

Shao Qing rolled over and shifted to clear the space, laughing, “Yes, that’s quite good.”

Her long, flowing black hair, cascading past her waist, lay partly strewn on the pillow as she rolled. When Wei Jing lay down, his body pressed against it, causing her to exclaim, “Ouch!”

He quickly got up and smoothed it back, asking, “Does it hurt?”

“Not hurt anymore.” Shao Qing brushed her hair back and lay down. She couldn’t help but run her hands over the back of her head, where she noticed a small patch of short hair. Muttering to herself, she said, “Fortunately, my hair is long.” When her hair is tied up, it isn’t noticeable—otherwise, that bald spot would look quite unsightly.

Over time, as they grew more accustomed to each other, such idle complaints became second nature to her. She was merely remarking, but Wei Jing couldn’t help but recall that nerve‐racking moment when a poisoned dart had grazed her scalp—an experience that still left him a bit shaken. After a brief pause, he comforted her, “It’ll grow back eventually.”

“Mm.” Feeling drowsy, Shao Qing covered her mouth and yawned, “I’m going to sleep.”

“Mm, sleep well. We still have to be on the road tomorrow,” Wei Jing replied.

Having recovered well from his injuries, Wei Jing was energetic and felt no fatigue. After blowing out the oil lamp, he listened quietly as the gentle, steady rhythm of breathing around him lulled him. He then focused on the sounds in his surroundings; finding everything in order, he finally closed his eyes.