Volume 5, Chapter 38: Doubting the Loyal and Steadfast (End)

Beside the deserted

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official road, a clear stream meandered behind a verdant and lush grove. The grove here was quite sparse and a road wide enough for a carriage to pass through penetrated into the forest. Outside the forest hung a wine () sign. With one glance, a thatched cottage with four or five spacious rooms within the forest could be seen. On the door hung the banner of the inn. This was presumably an excellent location for a traveler to rest and have a meal. Although a time of war, the faint fragrance of wine in the forest could still be whiffed and it seemed like it had not closed up shop. However, this was not strange. This was not the prime direction the Yong army advanced. As a result, the lives of many people still continued as before. It was only that they gained much apprehensiveness. This was the life of a commoner. As long as the axe or saber was not at their necks, they would still have to earn a living, or else they would be unable to support themselves.

Duan Wudi had already changed into the casual dress of a traveler. On the outside, he wore a cloak, while he had a bamboo hat on his head to block the sun. This kind of bamboo hat was something commonly worn by travelers to keep the elements away and was quite convenient. On the edges were muslin covering that could be used to conceal ones face. In Northern Han, the wind during spring and autumn was fierce. Even men were fond of blocking their faces from the wind.

Speeding along the journey, he did not bother to spare his horse. Although the Yong army had not garrisoned troops in this area, it was still frequented by Yong scouts. He could only do his best to avoid them. At this moment, he felt distressed. He focused on the journey, doing his best to avoid lamenting about his unknown future.

Gazing up at the sky, he could tell that it was almost noon. Feeling a bit tired and seeing his mount soaked with perspiration, he forced himself to look ahead into the distance. With one glance, he saw the inn located at the side of the road and was drawn to it. Having left in a rush, he had not prepared any rations. He decided to go within to rest, to buy some provisions and take some alcohol for the road. If he missed this opportunity, he probably wouldnt find any place to stop for a snack. Thinking of this, he urged his horse towards the grove. It wasnt long before he arrived at the inn.

The door to the inn was wide open. The tables within were all extremely clean. There were already several guests sitting at the rightmost table. The shopkeeper, a forty-year-old middle-aged man, laughed as he served wine and plates of food. Seeing the relaxed mood, Duan Wudi felt at ease. After tying his horse to the tree in front of the inn, he walked into the dining area and shouted, Serve some good food and wine! In a moment, I still need to continue my journey! Finished speaking, he picked a table to the left and sat down. In passing, he threw a few silver pieces on the table.

The shopkeeper promptly came over to wipe down the table, while his left hand nimbly tucked the silver into his sleeve. Pouring a cup of hot tea, he enthusiastically replied, Honored customers journey has been exhausting. Although my humble inn is remote, there are plenty of game and top-notch aged wine. Honored customer, please wait a moment. Finished speaking to Duan Wudi, the shopkeeper shouted, Little Third, please serve good wine and food!

Following his shout, an honest and straightforward-looking young man walked out from inside with food and drink. This young man was over twenty years old, appearing to be well-built and stocky. However, the expression on his face was insipid and simple. It was clear that his intellect was lacking. He blankly served a plate of peanuts and a plate of pigs head on the table before filling a wine jar from a massive vat. Afterwards, the simple man returned inside and the sound of a stir-frying wok floated out. It wasnt long before several wild game dishes were served. With the table covered with meat and vegetables, fragrant aromas assailed the nostrils.

Duan Wudi felt his stomach rumble with hunger, but remained vigilant. Intentionally or otherwise, he looked to the other side of the dining room. He saw four people over there. In the seat of honor was a middle-aged man wearing the attire of a merchant and seemed to be the master. To his left and right were individuals wearing bodyguard clothing and possessed gallant appearances. There was also a man in azure who had his back to Duan Wudi. Although Duan Wudi could not see this mans appearance, the mans hair was specked with gray and presumably was not young. However, there was no sign of age from the rear. He probably was around fifty years old. His only adornment was a jade hairpin binding his hair together, nothing else. He wore a set of azure robes and presumably played the role of an accountant. No matter how it looked, he didnt seem to be someone from the military. After confirming that these werent pursuing troops, Duan Wudi breathed a sigh of relief, beginning to devour the food.

Having hurriedly departed Yangyi, he had not eaten anything for a greater part of the day. With hunger, his table manners were naturally unsightly. After filling his stomach three-quarters of the way full, he began to relax. Although the wine of this shop was a rustic brew, it was dry and spicy. Wanting to drink more, just as he went to pour himself another cup, unexpectedly there was no more than a trickle left in the jar. Frowning, his only recourse was to ask for another jar. He usually did not drink much wine, not because of his poor capacity for alcohol, but his unwillingness to adversely affect military matters. Now that he had fallen into such straits, he had naturally lost some of his restraints. After drinking several cups, he felt his entire body lighten greatly and his exhaustion gradually reduce.

Wine was something capable of causing delusions. Once a person relaxed, they would unavoidably indulge in flights of fancy. Thinking of his loyalty and devotion, and yet accused of being a traitor and forced to flee, Duan Wudi could not help feeling sorrowful. The wine fueled his anxieties and his expression gained desolate grief and indignation. He did not realize that his mood was seen by the other customers on the other side of the dining room. Although the man in azure robes had his back to Duan Wudi, a specially manufactured copper pot before him reflected with Duan Wudis entire person. Watching everything, sadness and pity showed on the mans face.

Having drunk too much, Duan Wudi felt top-heavy. Growing tipsy, he could not help loudly reciting, A prince am I of ancestry renowned, / Illustrious name my Royal Sire hath found. / When Sirius did in spring its light display, / A childIwas born, and Tiger marked the day Duan Wudi was fondest of this famous poem by Qu Yuan. Although he was not extremely familiar with the histories, he deeply loved this poem,

Encountering Sorrow

, and knew it by heart.

Having suffered mentally for several days, Duan Wudis voice could not but be a bit hoarse and downcast. However, his recitation was sincere, filling with endless lamentation those who listened. When Duan Wudi reached the lines, It is this that my heart takes most delight in, / And though I died nine times, I shant regret it, he recited it repeatedly, unable to continue. Wiping away the tears, he once again drained a cup of wine.

At this very moment, Duan Wudi heard someone continue the recitation. That mans voice was mellifluous, his beautiful voice lingering. Duan Wudi was entranced, stopping his drinking. When the mans recitation reached the lines, Yet humbling the spirit and curbing the pride, / Bearing the shame and enduring the snides. / But remaining pure til the dying days: / Such conduct the wise men of yore greatly praised, Duan Wudi was increasingly pained. Duan Wudi suddenly sobered up with the end of the recitation: Enough! / Since in that kingdom all my virtue spurn, Why should I for the royal city yearn? / Wide though the world, no wisdom can be found. I'll seek the stream where once the sage was drowned.

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In such a rustic shop, how could a merchant be able to recite the poetry of Qu Yuan?

Duan Wudi raised his head and looked. The customers across the way were still the ones he had seen earlier. The three Duan Wudi could see were silently drinking. Probably sensing Duan Wudis gaze, the one with his back to Duan Wudithe gray-haired manturned around. Smiling, the man stated, This one has seen that General was unable to finish the recitation out of grief and lamentation. At the time, I was enthused and helped Sire finish. Presumably, I have disturbed Generals drinking. Please forgive me.

Duan Wudis heart pounded. How could this man know his identity? Looking carefully, Duan Wudi saw that although the gray-haired mans temples were sprinkled with frost his appearance was scholarly and elegant. He appeared handsome and seemed to still be quite young. In addition, the mans bearing was relaxed and leisurely, making all those who saw him feel respect and admiration. This mans figure caused Duan Wudi to feel a hint of familiarity. Suddenly realizing his identity, Duan Wudi tasted extraordinary bitterness in his mouth. Downing the strong liquor in the cup, he serenely inquired, How am I so fortunate to have the pleasure of meeting the Marquis of Chu here?

I didnt find it strange that Duan Wudi recognized me. After all, it was quite easy to identify me from my youthful appearance and white hair. The individual playing the role of the merchant and the two bodyguards were all experts from orthodox factions of

jianghu

. Duan Wudi had been deceived because they did not carry themselves like soldiers. Now that my identity had been discovered, they immediately rose to their feet and protected me. The curtain leading to the back rooms of the inn was pulled aside and Li Shun walked out slowly. Behind him, the two Secret Camp members who played the roles of the shopkeeper and the simple shop assistant had regained their valiant appearances. At the entrance to the inn, two additional figures appearedSu Qing and Huyan Shou. From outside, the sounds of suppressed breathing and weapons being drawn could be heard. It was obvious that this inn was already an inescapable trap that Duan Wudi had fallen into and had no hopes of escaping.

Duan Wudi understood the situation he faced. With things coming to a head, he was actually as steady as a mountain. Calmly, he poured another cup of wine for himself. Raising his cup in toast, he stated, Ever since Your Lordship came back from retirement in the Eastern Sea, my army has suffered repeated setbacks. In succession, Generals Tan and Long died for the country, while General Shi was forced to commit suicide. I have been accused of treason and have now fallen into Your Lordships trap. Your Lordships resourcefulness is truly world-shaking!

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It is only that Your Lordship is greatly honored. Why have you gone to such risks? If you wish to take my life, a single squad of cavalry or a few bodyguards will be enough. What need is there for you to come personally? Although the last sentence implied ridicule, Duan Wudis expression remained extremely calm, almost as if he had not fallen into the trap.

I did not have a hint of smugness, but rather felt a faint feeling of being thwarted. All of my arrangements were for the purpose of forcing this man to depart. From the moment he had departed Yangyi, there were a minimum of several hundred individuals monitoring his movements. After reckoning that he would definitely stop here for a meal, I had seized control of the area to set up this trap. Originally, I had hoped to deal him a mental blow at the first encounter and blunt his will. However, even though this man had fallen into my hands, he remained quite tranquil and indifferent, almost as if he had expected that this would happen. I could destroy the life and honor of this kind of resolute and steady individual, but could not wreck his determination. Feeling a hint of failure, I could only sigh inwardly and continue to forge ahead without fear of success or failure.

After flashing a wry smile, I replied, I set a trap to frame General only because I knew that the Princess of Jiaping would not execute a loyal individual like you. However, it was also impossible for the Princess to oppose the entirety of Northern Han and she could only allow the general to go far away. If the general wishes to flee, you can only head towards the Eastern Sea. Although the Eastern Sea will become a part of Great Yong sooner rather than later, it is your only way of surviving. Based upon Marquis Jiangs character, even if he were to learn of Generals whereabouts, he would feign ignorance. As a result, I have come with the intent of waiting respectfully for the general. Even if the general cannot appreciate this kind of sincere motivation, you should not be so cold as to disappoint this ones sincerity.

Duan Wudis mind turned rapidly, as he understood several matters. He asked, Originally, fourth young master Qiu was stuck in the Eastern Sea, but somehow returned safely this time. Could it be that Your Lordship had foreseen that the fourth young master would go to protect my life?

I praised this man inwardly for hitting the nail on the head and revealing my intentions. I answered, Thats correct. I previously had Yufei placed under house arrest in the Eastern Sea, because he was an expert in the

Xiantian

realm and I did not want him to participate in this war. However, now that the war is decided, I have some use for him. As a result, I deliberately had him invited back. However, General is one of the reasons, otherwise he would have remained in the Eastern Sea for another fortnight. Yufei is a sentimental individual and was also involved with the Shi Ying affair. Because I framed General, while others may doubt Generals loyalty, Yufei will never suspect that the general would commit treason. Combined with his high status and autonomy, even if the Princess of Jiaping had no choice but to harm the general, he would intervene to rescue. Although Yufeis whereabouts are like the mistdifficult to trackQinzhou is already completely within the Yongs army grasp. I was fully aware of what he would do: pay his respects at General Longs grave in Jishi, spy upon the Prince of Qis encampment at Pingyao before rushing to Yangyi to rescue the general. General Duan probably doesnt know, but Xiao Tong was sent to intervene in the event that the Princess of Jiaping allowed you to escape. Originally, he intended to pursue and kill you but was stopped by Yufei.

Gratitude appeared on Duan Wudis face, as he said, I cannot be grateful enough for fourth young master Qius kindness in rescuing my life. It is only that it is unlikely for me to have the ability to thank him in person. If Your Lordship meets him again, please thank him on my behalf.

I frowned. Deliberately ignoring the faint death resolution he revealed, I replied, Of Northern Hans many generals, I most admire Generals character. General has been faithful and true, willing to ruin your own reputation, disregarding honor and disgrace. Generals talents are greater than those of General Longs and the Princess of Jiapings. It is only a pity that you come from humble origins and had no patron to rely upon, thus never having the opportunity to serve as the commander-in-chief. If General is willing to serve Great Yong, both His Imperial Majesty and His Imperial Highness, the Prince of Qi, will be wild with joy. Although General Xuan was humiliated at your hands, he is also full of praise for the general. If General is willing to surrender and pledge allegiance, you can definitely become a marquis. If you have no interest in becoming renowned and celebrated, as General has long cherished the common people, your service to Great Yong will definitely help the soldiers and commoners of Northern Han. I wonder if General is willing to continue to sacrifice your reputation for the sake of Northern Hans masses?

Duan Wudi smiled slightly. Picking up the wine cup, he downed its contents in one gulp. Feeling like he had drunk a cup of raging flames, he dropped his hand to the hilt of his sword at his waist and responded, Regardless of Sires elegant, but insincere words, it is impossible to sway my resolve. Betrayal is still betrayal. I am still a subject of Northern Han and do not care about the riches and honor bestowed by the monarch of Great Yong. As for helping the commoners of Northern Han, that is only a pretext. It doesnt matter if this world is short a Duan Wudi. If Northern Han is truly subjugated, it would naturally be for the best if Great Yongs Son of Heaven is willing to treat the commoners of Northern Han well. If not, there will simply be patriots who arise. Although I do not cherish my reputation, it is impossible for me to defect to the enemy. Your Lordship has stated that the stigmas attached to my name were a result of Your Lordships machinations. Since they are not real, could it be that I will act recklessly out of hopelessness

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to bend my knee and truly surrender? Today, Your Lordship is out of touch with reality. How does it feel to wake in the middle of the night and think of Southern Chu?

A slight, wry smile appeared on my face at Duan Wudis determination. Originally, I had believed that in the face of the difficulties of his country and home, and his own difficult situation, he would waver. I had not expected that he would be so stubborn. Perhaps because he had seen me unable to refute Duan Wudis rebuke, Li Shun coldly interjected, For you to be so rude in the face of my young masters persuasiondo you not recognize that you presently face death? One order from the young master and you will die tragically. Afterwards, my young master need only make it public, revealing that you already surrendered to Great Yong. When that happens, even if you die, your reputation will be completely lost. Even if you were willing to serve with body and soul, who would know? Im afraid that even the Princess of Jiaping and fourth young master Qiu will believe that you are a true traitor.

Duan Wudi smiled uncaringly. Keeping his grip on the hilt of the sword at his waist, he replied, There is no need for the Marquis to give the order; I can act myself. As for honor and disgrace, I have never taken my reputation seriously. Even if the world denounces me, what does it matter as long as I possess a clear conscience? Besides, the truth cannot be hidden forever.

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There will be the day when the truth comes to light.

A fierce killing intent flashing across Li Shuns eyes, he stonily said, In my presence, you might not be able to attempt suicide. So speaking, he took a step forward, while his eyes stared fixedly at Duan Wudi.

Duan Wudis complexion chilled and his right hand seemed to prepare to draw his sword. While everyone focused on his right hand, his left hand suddenly pulled out a dagger as swift as lightning from his hip and pierced it towards his abdomen. In the moment he pulled out the dagger, Su Qing was about to shoot out a pair needles. However, a thought popped into her mind. Rather than having Duan Wudi experience all kinds of humiliation, wouldnt it be better to allow him to die? Lowering her eyes, she did not flick out the needles to injure Duan Wudis wrist.

However, once she heard a groan of pain and looked up with astonishment, she saw that Li Shuns left hand had clenched down on Duan Wudis throat, while the dagger was already in Li Shuns right hand. Su Qings heart clenched. As her eyes wandered, she suddenly noticed a pair of gentle eyes staring steadily at her. Shaking inwardly, the two needles in her hand dropped to the ground.

Withdrawing my gaze, I hid what I had just witnessed in the back of my mind. Waving my hand, I had Li Shun withdraw as I mildly stated, General Duan, please do not mind my subordinates rudeness.

Duan Wudi sank weakly. The tipsiness and the cutting off of his breath made his vision and head swim. He could do nothing as Li Shun removed the sword at his waist and forced another cup of wine down his throat. When Duan Wudi returned to his senses once again, there was a bitter smile on his face. Lifting his head, he saw that elegant young man standing before him and holding a handkerchief. Behind the young man was a pair of icy eyes watching him intently. Duan Wudi felt himself grow cold, almost as if he were a frog being gazed at by a viper, and did not dare move. He was well aware that if he made any ill-advised movements, he would definitely fall into a predicament where he could neither live nor die. Accepting the handkerchief and wiping the sweat from his face, Duan Wudi understood clearly that there was only one way for him to escape this kind of situation.

Gazing at Jiang Zhe, Duan Wudi heavily said, I once had a heart-to-heart with fourth young master Qiu and knows a little about Your Lordship. Although the world knows of Your Lordships viciousness, I believe that Your Lordship is a sentimental individual. Southern Chus Prince of De treated Your Lordship poorly and yet Your Lordship never spoke ill of him. For the sake of Great Yongs Empire, Your Lordship has spared no effort. The entire world knows about these matters. Presumably, when Your Lordship faced the Fengyi Sect Master, you were also willing to sacrifice your reputation and your life. I am untalented. Even if I cannot live or die, I still have the courage to refuse to surrender. Since Your Lordship esteems me, why are you willing to watch me fall into such a state? If you can help me remain loyal, I cannot be grateful enough even in the underworld.

I sighed lightly. Gazing into Duan Wudis eyes, I could only see his perseverance and fearlessness. I felt increasingly agonized, recognizing that everything had been for naught. At this moment, Su Qing took a step forward. In a rather miserable tone, she suggested, My Lord, this general asks that you allow him to follow his aspirations.

When these words were spoken, Duan Wudi could not prevent his gaze from turning to Su Qing. His eyes showed his immense gratitude. Feeling ever more sorrowful, Su Qing looked away, unwilling to look at what was unfolding.

I gently shook my head before retreating several steps and turning around. Understanding, Li Shun handed back Duan Wudis sword before retreating several steps himself. Her heart aching, Su Qing knew that the two were tacitly allowing Duan Wudi to commit suicide. Unwilling to be a spectator, Su Qing lightly took a step back and looked away.

Seeing this, Huyan Shou shifted half a step and blocked the majority of Su Qings figure from the view. He was apprehensive. Just now, from Su Qings inappropriate behavior, he was worried that Su Qing would have an intense reaction when Duan Wudi committed suicide and make Jiang Zhes suspicious. That was why he had moved to block her from the sight.

Both delighted and sorrowful, Duan Wudi rose. Saluting, he acknowledged, Many thanks for Your Lordships grace. Then his gaze flitted past Huyan Shou and Su Qing. Having always been a meticulous individual, he had immediately noticed that something was odd. Cracking a grin, he kneeled down facing the city of Jinyang. In distress, he declared, In life, Wudi was unable to protect the country. In death, I hope that my spirit can return and protect my homeland!

Finished speaking, he raised his sword to his throat. Not knowing why, my chest heated up and I interjected, Hold up!

Li Shun had long been prepared for this and sent out his internal energy with a flick of his finger. Duan Wudi felt his hand go numb and the sword fell to the ground. Startled, Duan Wudi angrily asked, Could it be that Your Lordship wishes to go back on your word and toy with me?

At this moment, Duan Wudi was angry to the extreme as he shot to his feet. Although his path was barred and he was prevented from violently causing problems, he was in a towering fury and his eyes had become bloodshot.

Smiling slightly, I answered, General, do not worry. I will absolutely not change my mind. I only wish to give the general another choice. If General is unwilling, then you can do as you please and I will not try to stop you.

Duan Wudi glanced at Li Shun and company, understanding that he had no choice but to listen. He could do nothing but angrily reply, Your Lordship, if you have words, please speak.

Slowly enunciating each word, I spoke, I