Chen Sanshi's gaze landed on the note following the word Perfection.
Limit Break: First Stage.
It looked like his Archery could still improve further.
The next enhancement would most likely increase both accuracy and draw speed.
At present, no target within 300 paces could evade his arrow. That was roughly 400 meters, nearly one li—more than enough for real combat.
He put away his bow and arrows.
That afternoon, he went into the city for patrol duty. When he returned home at night, he received a courier packet from the post station—an imperial reply.
The memorial regarding Xu Wencai's promotion had been approved, but Yu Song's case wasn't even mentioned, as if it had been deliberately ignored.
From the writing style, it didn't seem to have been penned by the Emperor himself. It was probably drafted by the Grand Secretariat or Directorate of Ceremonial Affairs, then issued under imperial authority.
"One signboard, and it's this difficult?"
Did he really have to wait until he entered the capital to hear the Emperor's words directly?
Still, it seemed Xu Wencai's new post had been granted, though the reply was vague—no specific title or reward was written.
——
Military City — Soldiers' Quarters.
In Liangzhou, half of the northern district was filled with military households.
The soldiers' families lived there, their homes no different from ordinary residences, though each was assigned according to military rank.
Even the smallest homes were enough for a family of five, though space was tight.
Inside the Ding-numbered residence on North Alley, several of the old brothers from Poyang were gathered in the courtyard, drinking wine and rolling dice during their rest day.
"Finally made it! I'm officially a general now."
Feng Yong had one foot up on a stool, grinning. "Fifth-rank General of Martial Strategy!"
"Hah! I'm a General of Martial Valor, a whole rank higher than you!"
"Got plenty of silver as a reward too. I'm thinking of moving out soon. No more living in this broken alley—I'll get myself a proper courtyard!"
"My rewards were mostly medicinal tonics. I'm about to reach the Tempering Organ stage!"
"Good, good. Looks like all of us have bright futures ahead!"
"We really owe it all to our lord."
"Yeah. If it weren't for him leading us to victory, none of us would've made it this far. Back in Poyang County, even if we didn't die, we'd have stayed nobodies for life!"
"When the army expands again, we'll definitely rise even higher!"
"Hey, Old Xu!"
Zhu Tong looked at the old scholar munching peanuts. "How come I didn't hear about you getting promoted? You only got some silver, right?"
"What's the story there?"
Zhao Kang set down his chopsticks. "Just because you don't cultivate or hold rank, they really treated you like an ordinary formation grunt? That's not fair, is it?"
"Yeah," said Feng Yong, frowning. "I remember twice when we were covering the rear—you and General Bai nearly didn't make it back. You risked your life both times. You commanded those maneuvers yourself, so why no official post?"
"Heh."
Xu Wencai was already a bit drunk. He waved his hand with a faint smile. "To tell you the truth, I don't really care. As long as my talents can be put to use, that's enough for me. I don't live for titles."
"Quit pretending!"
Zhu Tong snorted. "Ever since we came back from Mingzhou, you've been drinking alone all the time. You think I didn't notice?"
Xu Wencai fell silent.
The others grew quiet too.
At first, when Chen Sanshi assigned Xu Wencai to manage their affairs, many had been dissatisfied. But as time passed, every one of them had grown to respect him.
Xu Wencai's contributions weren't flashy, but everyone knew how much he'd done.
From daily drills to duty rosters, from pre-battle strategy and logistics to stipends and pensions for the fallen—nearly every aspect of managing the two thousand men in their command had gone through his hands.
Chen Sanshi was always busy, so someone had to handle these affairs. Naturally, that burden had fallen to Xu Wencai alone.
Many nights, when they got up at the third watch to relieve themselves, they'd still see him bent over a desk, working by lamplight.
For someone who had done so much, to receive nothing but a few taels of silver was indeed unfair.
"Don't worry."
Wang Zhi finally broke the silence. "Do you really think Chen Sanshi forgot? The man's been juggling training, patrols, and cultivation, yet he still finds time to brew medicine for you all. Didn't he even give you fresh beast meat a few days ago? No way he'd overlook Xu Wencai."
"Yeah, yeah."
"Just keep working hard under his command."
"Your title of Crouching Dragon might sound grand, but that's the same rank as a camp commander of the Azure Dragon Battalion. It's a high post—might take some time, but a slightly lower rank is surely on the way."
"It's all just empty reputation!"
Xu Wencai stiffened his neck stubbornly. "Titles, posts, rewards—none of that matters. I've never cared for such worldly things. I serve with all my heart, expecting nothing in return…"
"Imperial Edict incoming—!"
A sharp, commanding voice rang through the alley. Everyone froze.
Zhao Kang muttered under his breath, "The highest-ranking officer around here is just a Thousand-Commander. Why would an imperial decree come to this place? Whose family is it for?"
"Bang, bang, bang!"
The old wooden door shook violently under a series of knocks.
A stern voice barked from outside.
"Impudent rabble! The imperial edict has arrived—what are you whispering about? Come out and receive it at once!"
"Our house?!"
Everyone exchanged wide-eyed looks before scrambling to their feet.
They rushed out the door.
In the alley stood a eunuch in a python-patterned robe, holding a golden-yellow imperial decree. Behind him were several blade-bearing guards.
"Kneel and receive the decree!"
"Clatter—"
Everyone dropped to their knees immediately, not knowing what was happening. Some even glanced around nervously, half-worried one of them had committed some grave offense and was about to be executed.
"Xu Wencai—receive the decree!"
The eunuch, Eunuch Hou, unfurled the golden scroll and read in a clear, ringing voice:
"By the Mandate of Heaven, the Emperor decrees—
Formation soldier Xu Wencai of the Reserve Camp, learned in the heavens and versed in the earth, master of celestial patterns and military arts alike.
During the suppression of the Mingzhou Rebellion, he repeatedly risked his life to hold off pursuing forces, paving the way for the four crossings of the Hongze River and the victory at Meishan Prefecture, establishing indelible military merit.
In recognition of his wisdom and loyalty, We hereby bestow upon him both civil and martial honors.
By imperial command, Xu Wencai is promoted to Assistant Commander (Third Rank) of the Youzhou Regional Command, and concurrently appointed Third-Rank Central Administrative Judge.
He is granted the honorary title 'Mister Crouching Dragon(Wolong).'
He is to depart within ten days for Youzhou to assist Commander Du Shiguang in suppressing the rebellion and exterminating bandits.
By Imperial Decree—thus ordered!"
When the eunuch's final words—"By Imperial Command"—fell, everyone remained frozen, their minds still reeling from the decree's contents. For a moment, they even forgot to bow.
What… what did they just hear?
The Emperor had granted Xu Wencai a third-rank title?
Third rank?!
They hadn't misheard.
Even General Chen himself currently held only a temporary third-rank title—General of Distant Loyalty.
Although everyone knew that once Chen Sanshi entered the capital, he'd surely be granted an even higher post, this was still shocking.
Because…
Third rank was far too high!
The Youzhou Regional Command oversaw every garrison and military station in the entire province—tens of thousands of troops!
And the position of Assistant Commander meant Xu Wencai would be directly involved in training, management, and tactical planning—essentially part of the highest decision-making body in Youzhou's army, with authority to command in battle.
That was nothing short of meteoric rise—one step into the heavens!
And then there was the bestowed title—Mister Crouching Dragon.
What was that supposed to mean?!
Wasn't that title equal in prestige to Fang Qingyun, the famed Phoenix Chick?
Even if the title carried no formal rank, it still implied recognition of near-saintly intellect.
Could Xu Wencai really live up to it?
Who had requested this favor for him?
General Chen?
That much influence—could he really have secured such a title?
"Your servant—"
"Xu Wencai!!"
Before anyone could react, Xu Wencai was already sobbing uncontrollably. Trembling all over, he prostrated himself and shouted, "Your servant receives the decree and offers thanks! Long live His Majesty—long live, long live!"
He was forty-eight years old.
Since the age of sixteen, he had been taking the imperial examinations, but in his entire life, he had never risen above the rank of a mere licentiate.
Today—he had finally made it.
Yet… something about it felt off.
'Why is Old Xu being transferred away…?'
Wang Zhi was the first to notice.
But none of them dared to speak now.
At a glance from the chief eunuch, everyone else wisely stepped aside, leaving Xu Wencai alone.
"Lord Xu," said Eunuch Hou, stepping forward to personally help him up. "No need to kneel any longer. Please, stand."
"Thank you, Eunuch Hou. You've worked hard."
Xu Wencai wiped his tears and rose shakily. Knowing the rules, he fumbled inside his robes and pulled out a banknote—his entire savings from the Mingzhou campaign, only one hundred taels of silver.
"This…"
Eunuch Hou didn't refuse. Without changing expression, he quietly accepted it, then linked arms with him as they walked deeper into the courtyard. He sighed softly. "Lord Xu, your life hasn't been easy. Thirty years of examinations without recognition, your family so poor your own mother starved to death. Yet now, you've finally broken free."
"Yes, yes…"
Xu Wencai set out a chipped bowl, wiped it clean with his sleeve, and poured the eunuch some wine. "I am an unfilial son. I spent half my life buried in books. Once, I got my hands on a few rare manuscripts and became obsessed—copied them by hand, studied for months without looking up. By the time I realized, the grain was gone. My mother… she hadn't eaten for days. She gave me what little food remained. When I found her—she'd already…"
"Ah…"
Eunuch Hou clicked his tongue, visibly sympathetic. "So Lord Xu's fixation on the title Crouching Dragon—it must be tied to your family's memory, yes?"
"When I was young," Xu Wencai said hoarsely, "I boasted that one day the world would call me Crouching Dragon. I swore I'd bring my parents and elder sister wealth and peace. But…"
He stopped there, unable—or unwilling—to continue. After a long silence, he sighed deeply. "At least now, I finally hold an imperial title. When I burn offerings at my mother's grave next year, I can tell her I didn't waste this life."
"'A light boat has crossed a thousand mountains,'" Eunuch Hou said softly, patting his shoulder. "Lord Xu, your good days are just beginning."
Xu Wencai nodded repeatedly. "I thank His Majesty. I thank you, Eunuch Hou…"
"Me?" The eunuch smiled faintly. "Surely Lord Xu refers to General Chen?"
Xu Wencai froze.
Eunuch Hou's lips curled slightly higher. "But General Chen's memorial didn't mention the title Crouching Dragon at all. His Majesty bestowed that personally—out of admiration for your talents. I trust Lord Xu understands what I'm implying?"
Xu Wencai's tearful eyes suddenly cleared. His lids narrowed for a split second, then relaxed again. He bowed quickly, expression calm and grateful. "Your servant understands. I, Xu Wencai, thank His Majesty for his boundless grace."
"That's good."
Eunuch Hou took a sip from the bowl, sniffed the wine, grimaced slightly, then set it down. "As long as you remember your place, opportunities will continue to come your way."
"You may rest assured!"
Xu Wencai pounded his chest, then hesitated before asking carefully, "Might I ask, what exactly did General Chen say about me in his memorial?"
"Well…" Eunuch Hou drawled, voice soft and sharp. "He certainly didn't mention any honorary title. After all, who wouldn't want to keep such a fine talent under their command?"
"Outrageous," Xu Wencai muttered under his breath, teeth clenched. "How could he do this to me? If it weren't for me risking my life back then—how could that fool Bai Tingzhi have…"
The rest of the words trailed off, but the implication was clear—Chen Sanshi was holding him back.
"Oh?"
Eunuch Hou's eyes glinted. He hadn't expected the seed to sprout this quickly.
Then Xu Wencai sighed, changing tone. "Still… I owe him much. He saved me from Poyang, after all. I will repay that debt someday—but I will no longer serve under him blindly."
"Lord Xu truly knows gratitude. Admirable," said Eunuch Hou approvingly. "Once you reach Youzhou, it will be like a fish returning to the sea—boundless space for your talents."
"I already know the situation in Youzhou well."
Xu Wencai twirled his feather fan, his confidence returning. "I'll draw up a detailed campaign plan against the bandits tonight."
"Excellent. But one more word of advice," said the eunuch. "With General Fang Qingyun's brilliance before you, bearing the title Crouching Dragon will bring enormous expectations. You'll need real merit to match it. The rank of third-class Assistant Commander is just the beginning. When the army expands, you might even become a seated scholar-general yourself."
"I understand. This is my trial by fire."
Xu Wencai bowed low, his fan pressed to his chest. "I will give everything I have, so as not to disappoint His Majesty."
"Very good." Eunuch Hou rose, smoothing his robe. "Then prepare yourself well. Once the appointed day arrives, you'll depart immediately. And one more thing—Lord Xu, though you are a scholar, you'll be commanding soldiers. Without protection, that won't do. Even General Fang Qingyun has Profound Manifestation Realm deputies to aid him. So—these two bodyguards…"
Eunuch Hou pointed toward the door, where two armed guards stood at attention. "Both were selected from the Imperial Guard," he said. "They are Lieutenant Generals at the Meridian-Connecting Realm, and from now on, they'll serve as Lord Xu's personal protectors."
"The subordinates pay respects to Lord Xu!"
The two guards stepped forward and bowed deeply.
"I still have other duties to attend to," Eunuch Hou said with a faint smile. "I'll leave now. Lord Xu's safety will be in your hands."
After giving his instructions, the eunuch departed the residence.
Xu Wencai sat down on the long wooden bench, gently fanning himself. His eyes lingered on the two guards standing respectfully by the door, and his mind began to drift.
Suddenly—
"Bang!"
The door flew open with a loud crash.
Zhu Tong swaggered in, grinning. "Hehehe, look at you, you've really made it big now!"
"Yeah!"
"Third rank!"
The rest soon piled in, crowding the room, faces full of excitement. "You've really struck gold!"
"They actually made you Crouching Dragon! What's going on with that?"
"Old Xu, come on, tell us what happened!"
Xu Wencai spoke leisurely, his tone distant. "From now on, call me Lord Xu—or Mister Crouching Dragon."
Everyone froze for a moment, then burst out laughing. They thought he was joking.
"You sly old dog, you've really gone up in the world!"
"Yeah, yeah, you've got to treat us to a proper feast for this."
"Generals," Xu Wencai said, turning to the two guards. Before he could even speak, one of them discreetly handed him some silver. Xu Wencai cupped his hands politely. "Thank you. Once I arrive in Youzhou and assume office, I'll repay you both. Hundred Commander Zhu, General Zhao—come, tonight's feast is on me at the Immortal Crane Pavilion."
"You're really putting on airs now. What's your title again in private?"
"Yeah, look at him—already acting all proud. Well, third rank is pretty high up."
"Let's go, let's go! We've got to make him bleed a little tonight!"
Inside Immortal Crane Pavilion, the table was filled with wine and dishes.
But somehow, the joy felt hollow.
Ever since the imperial decree had arrived, Xu Wencai seemed like a different person. There was something invisible between them now—some barrier that made conversation and laughter feel forced.
Their drinking enthusiasm faded fast.
By the time the night deepened, the atmosphere was awkwardly heavy, almost ready to break apart.
Finally, Xu Wencai lifted his wine cup and said loudly, "Brothers, these past two years we've served together in the army. I thank you all for your support and for watching my back in battle. But… no feast lasts forever. Once we finish this cup, I'll be heading to Youzhou to take up my post. From here on, we'll probably see less and less of each other."
His words were tactful, even polite.
But everyone with half a brain could hear the distance in them.
Put simply, he was drawing a line—the road ahead is wide, and each man walks his own way. They were brothers once, but from now on, they'd be little more than distant colleagues.
"Bang!"
Feng Yong slammed the table, standing up angrily. "Old Xu, you serious right now?"
"You really think you're some big official now?"
"You've barely had the decree in your hands half a day, and already you're putting on this act—who do you think you are?"
"You don't get it," someone snorted. "He's going to Youzhou now. Who knows how high he'll climb there? He doesn't need to serve under Lord Chen anymore."
"Oh, I see," Zhu Tong said bitterly. "So you're done following Shitou now, huh? Planning to make yourself the boss?"
"What else could he mean?" another man spat. "I've seen it for a while. Every night he'd sit there staring at the Great Sheng Dynasty's map, thinking no one noticed. He's been dreaming of command, just waiting to lead troops himself."
"Fine, you want to be a commander, go ahead. No one's stopping you. But why cut us off? You think we'll drag you down now?"
"Speaking in circles, acting all high and mighty—it's disgusting."
"Let's go."
"Who cares about his damn feast? Give him his money back."
One after another, they pulled silver from their belts and tossed it onto the table before walking out, their faces dark with anger.
"Lazy, sly, gluttonous, petty—small man, quick to arrogance!"
Zhu Tong finally found the words he wanted, cursed loudly, grabbed his hammer, and stormed out.
Soon, only two people remained—Wang Zhi and Xu Wencai.
Xu Wencai sat silently, staring at the leftover dishes and scattered silver coins on the table. He didn't speak for a long while.
Wang Zhi rose slowly, gripping the hilt of his blade. His voice was calm. "You're leaving soon. Is there anything you want me to tell Sanshi for you?"
"Please," Xu Wencai said, pulling a folded letter from his sleeve. "Give this to General Chen for me."
He had written it earlier that evening, while the others drank and laughed in the next room.
"Alright. Farewell."
Wang Zhi cupped his fists and left.
——
Military City — Small Drill Yard.
Chen Sanshi, as always, was practicing the spear with tireless focus.
Under the dual nourishment of spirit grain and treasure medicine, his proficiency rose steadily.
The Meridian-Connecting Realm had four stages, each with distinct functions.
The first, Beginner Stage, was also called Opening the Orifices.
Once the orifices were opened, the internal force refined from qi and blood could circulate freely within the body. This greatly increased both meridian toughness and bodily strength, and the user's explosive power multiplied. From that point on, martial artists no longer relied solely on their flesh—the hidden meridians within their bodies began to truly awaken.
The next stage, Mastery, was known as Opening the Meridians.
The human body possessed twelve primary meridians, along with eight extraordinary ones, totaling twenty main channels, plus countless minor ones. Unlocking all twelve primary meridians marked the completion of this stage.
After that, the internal force could be stored within the meridians themselves. The amount stored depended on how wide the meridians were opened and how many smaller channels had been cleared.
For Transforming Strength martial artists, internal force was fueled entirely by qi and blood. While its offensive might far exceeded ordinary physical attacks, its consumption of qi and blood was enormous—at least three times greater than that of the Tempering Organ stage.
Once the qi and blood were depleted, no internal force could be produced.
That was why most Transforming Strength cultivators rarely used internal force in battle unless absolutely necessary. They would fight using only qi and blood until facing an opponent of equal strength—only then would they unleash their inner power.
Chen Sanshi, however, had never suffered from endurance issues. His internal force had always lasted longer than most, and depletion was something he rarely worried about.
But once a martial artist reached the Meridian-Connecting Realm, things changed drastically. When their twelve primary meridians were fully opened, they could store tremendous amounts of internal force—enough to sustain long, continuous combat. On the battlefield, it would take many lives to drain their strength completely.
At Minor Achievement, a cultivator could circulate internal force through the meridians in a full cycle, opening an additional twenty-four minor meridians, thus refining both the intensity and purity of their power.
The final Major Achievement meant breaking through the Eight Extraordinary Meridians.
After reaching that level, one no longer needed to convert qi and blood into internal force. The Eight Extraordinary Meridians themselves would continuously generate energy, the endurance and power determined by the strength of one's foundational body—essentially, one's physique.
Starting from the Meridian-Connecting Realm, a martial artist finally stepped beyond the limits of flesh alone and began walking the true path toward the mysterious and profound.
"Buzz—"
Chen Sanshi swung his spear, and instantly felt something within his body stir from the soles of his feet.
It was as if invisible locks were being opened one by one—the body's internal apertures.
There were 720 of them.
They did not open individually, but all at once during the moment of breakthrough, the culmination of countless hours of tempering.
Each aperture's opening came with searing, bone-deep pain—720 times over, a torture beyond description.
Finally, every aperture in his body burst open, and surging internal force poured into his twelve major meridians.
If before this, a martial artist's internal force was merely a weapon they wielded—
Then from this moment on, the martial artist himself became the weapon.
His body, his qi, and his strength were one and the same.
"The breakthrough is complete."
[Skill: Dragon Spear of Nation-Suppression — Meridian-Connecting (Beginner)]
[Progress: 0/500]
[Effect: Force and body become one; body and weapon merge—threefold unity, flawless and unbreakable.]
Flawless and unbreakable!
Unless someone utterly overpowered him in sheer strength, his technique itself would reveal no weakness.
Chen Sanshi drove the spear into the ground and muttered, "With this breakthrough, I finally deserve the rank of Lieutenant General."
In the elite battalions, that rank corresponded exactly to the Meridian-Connecting Realm—at last, his cultivation matched his position.
He closed his eyes, quietly sensing the transformation.
Colorless and formless internal force now flowed freely within him, mingling yet not clashing with the faint purple incense aura that lingered in his meridians.
The body's meridians had always existed naturally.
Anyone with a spiritual root could draw in the world's spiritual qi through them. But to cultivate internal force that could flow through those same channels required tireless, day-after-day martial training—a mortal's defiance of heaven itself.
One path relied on heaven's gift of spiritual energy.
The other relied on human will, pushing the limits of mortal flesh.
That, perhaps, was what it truly meant to seek the Dao through martial arts.
After putting away his spear, Chen Sanshi entered the alchemy room.
By now, he had mastered the art of tempering medicine with internal force—his control was exquisite, instinctive. Every refinement pushed the herbs to their maximum potential, his movements so practiced that he no longer needed conscious thought.
"Buzz—"
Soon, a furnace of Great Replenishing Medicine, used to enhance the cultivation of Tempering Organ martial artists, was complete. The fragrant medicinal scent spread throughout the room.
[Skill: Medicine (Mortal) — Minor Achievement]
[Progress: 0/2000]
[Effect: Grandmaster of Alchemy — Residual Toxin reduced to only 10%!]
The medicine Chen Sanshi brewed carried merely one-tenth of the usual residual poison—surpassing expert level and stepping straight into the grandmaster tier!
That meant a cultivator could now drink two to three bowls every three days instead of just one. The acceleration this offered to training was beyond imagination.
"Lord Chen!"
Zhao Kang entered, following orders to take his dose. But after one sip, he immediately sensed something different. "My lord, this medicine feels way stronger than the ones brewed by Physician Jiang's team! And the toxins… almost gone!"
"Don't make noise," Chen Sanshi said calmly. "Call everyone from the Tempering Bone stage and above. I've made enough for all of them."
"Yes, sir!"
Soon, more than ten soldiers filled the room.
Each took their portion, and after swallowing, their eyes widened in disbelief.
Though the formula was merely a standard tonic, the effects were beyond words.
"From today onward," Chen Sanshi said, "focus all your time on cultivation. I'll tailor the medicine to your highest absorption capacity. If your personal rations run out, I'll cover the cost myself. Within one month, I want five of you to reach Tempering Organ. Within six months, at least one must break through to Transforming Strength. Can you do it?"
"Rest assured, my lord!"
Liu Jinkui thumped his chest. "With this medicine, I'll reach Tempering Organ in half a month at most!"
"Same here!"
"Me too!"
Many of them were already at the peak of Tempering Bone.
"Thank you, my lord!"
One by one, they dropped to one knee, speaking from the heart.
They were, after all, men who'd once been deemed hopeless—raised up entirely by Chen Sanshi's hand.
What superior officer personally brewed medicine for his men—and even paid for their herbs out of pocket?
"By the way," Chen Sanshi asked suddenly, "I haven't seen Xu Wencai these last two days. Where is he?"
"My lord doesn't know?"
Zhao Kang frowned. "That Xu fellow got transferred. Two days ago…"
They explained everything that had happened.
"My lord," Feng Yong added bitterly, "he even acted superior with us before leaving. But he didn't come see you once!"
"Bah!" Wu Da spat. "If it weren't for you, my lord, that old bastard would've been digging ditches or buried under a wall by now!"
Chen Sanshi didn't speak.
He simply stood there, analyzing everything quietly.
A third-rank Assistant Commander, with the honorary title of Crouching Dragon…
That was quite the heavy-handed promotion.
It seemed the Emperor truly intended to shape Xu Wencai into the next Fang Qingyun—but a more controllable version. The title of Third-Rank Assistant Commander was probably just the start. If Xu performed well in Youzhou, his rank would only rise higher.
'I really underestimated the court's intelligence network.'
Chen Sanshi had written in his memorial all the detailed merits Xu Wencai had earned since joining the army. But since those accomplishments were all joint contributions, not individual feats, Chen hadn't dared to recommend any honorary title like Crouching Dragon. He'd planned to first secure him an official position and then gradually elevate him.
After all, sometimes raising someone too quickly could do more harm than good—especially within the Eight Great Battalions. If the others heard that one of Chen's subordinates had been given the Crouching Dragon title, it would definitely stir resentment. It might even seem like a slight toward Fang Qingyun himself.
But clearly, the Emperor already knew everything—not only Xu Wencai's history but even his lifelong obsession with the title Crouching Dragon. His Majesty didn't hesitate; he directly transferred Xu to Youzhou to take part in the coming wars.
If Xu failed there, his head would likely roll.
Still, Chen Sanshi had faith in the old scholar's abilities.
As for why Xu hadn't come to say farewell—
It was simple.
He was cutting ties.
The Emperor had chosen him precisely because he lacked cultivation and had no factional ties.
If he remained closely associated with Chen, he'd never rise higher.
"This old fox really is infuriating," Feng Yong grumbled. "He hasn't even achieved any merits yet and already acts like he's above the lord. When he does make a name for himself, he'll be looking down on everyone."
"Enough," Chen Sanshi said, raising his hand to stop them. "Old Xu has his own path to walk. Don't bring this up again."
He understood the old scholar well. Xu Wencai might be slick, but he wasn't a petty man.
Arrogant fools—yes. But villains? No.
Then Chen noticed Wang Zhi standing quietly at the back, giving him a subtle look. He dismissed everyone else and waited until the room was empty before speaking.
"Sixth Senior Brother, what is it?"
"Yes," Wang Zhi said, pulling out a sealed letter from his robe. "Old Xu gave me this to pass to you. There's something off about him. He's not the kind of person to just walk away without a word—so I suspect there's more going on here. These past few days you've been locked up training nonstop. I didn't want to disturb you. You broke through to Meridian-Connecting, right?"
"Yes."
Chen Sanshi didn't hide it. He took the envelope, broke the seal, and began to read.
The first line left him stunned.
"Your servant was but a commoner, idly living in Poyang, until Your Lordship took me under your wing…"
The first half was all humble gratitude—praising Chen for his kindness and support.
But the second half shifted, speaking of grand ambitions and future plans.
The core message was clear.
His public "cutting ties" had only been an act—a performance. He asked Chen not to take it personally. By pretending to sever ties, he could gain the Emperor's full trust and eventually seize real military power. His new post as Assistant Commander was just a stepping stone.
Give him one year, the letter said, and he would return to Chen's command with 20,000 elite soldiers at his back.
"What the hell am I supposed to do with that many troops?"
Chen Sanshi frowned. His own long-term goal was just to become the commander of a single battalion—barely 10,000 men. The old scholar was already talking about doubling that number.
And that word "臣"—your servant.
Used in a letter to him? That didn't sit right at all.
What on earth was Xu thinking?
The final line read:
"Now I must part ways. Tears fall upon this farewell note; words fail me."
Chen Sanshi finished the letter and just stood there, speechless, unsure whether to laugh or sigh.
"Well?" Wang Zhi asked curiously. "What did the old fox say?"
"Sorry, Senior Brother," Chen said. "He asked me not to share it."
Wang Zhi squinted. "Heh, that confirms my suspicions. Something's definitely off about him."
He lowered his voice. "My guess? The Emperor had the Embroidered Uniform Guard investigate Xu Wencai. Once they confirmed he was clean and useful, they drew him in. You can't even talk about it. If you're upset, you'll be accused of being narrow-minded or obstructing your subordinates' futures. And if the court gets serious, they'll call it factionalism.
Our Emperor might lack other virtues, but he's a master at power balance—just like his predecessors.
Mark my words, once the army expansion is done, at least half of the generals will belong to the imperial faction, not to the Eight Great Battalions anymore."
"I know."
Chen Sanshi sighed. He understood it perfectly well.
But it wasn't something he could do anything about. Even if he wanted to worry, he had no say in such matters.
He couldn't risk letting anyone else see Xu's letter either—too many of its phrases bordered on treasonous. One leak, and it could bring disaster.
So he tossed it straight into the furnace and watched as the flames consumed the paper, turning it to ashes.
Wang Zhi turned to leave.
"Senior Brother," Chen called out, stopping him. "Wait a moment. I'll find a way to heal your meridians."
"I…"
Wang Zhi smiled awkwardly. "You don't have to trouble yourself for me. I'm fine like this. Fewer men under me means less responsibility—and I sleep just fine."
"Come on," Chen said, shaking his head. "Apart from you, the others' physiques are too weak. I'm counting on you, Senior Brother."
Wang Zhi gripped his blade, hesitating.
He wanted to bring up the eight taels of silver from back then.
Not because he intended to take it without repayment—but because, back when they were at the Tianyuan Martial Hall, someone had set him up. The things they said that day… had almost gotten Chen Sanshi killed.
Wang Zhi had taken the eight taels of silver, and though he hadn't intended to teach Chen Sanshi the breathing method, he'd planned to save the young man's life when the time came. In his mind, eight taels for one life was a fair trade.
He was greedy for money, yes—but never for blood. The silver he'd taken was almost always from the martial hall, not from the weak or desperate.
Still, some things lost their meaning once too much time passed.
And it seemed Chen Sanshi truly held no grudge.
After a long moment of silence, Wang Zhi sighed, turned, and left the room.
Chen Sanshi rose soon after, returning to the training yard to resume his drills.
By dusk, he was packing up his things and calling for Qianxun to head home when the thunder of hooves echoed from the distance.
He turned—and saw his senior brother Lü Ji galloping closer on a massive stallion. The beast's coat was a deep crimson, its body steaming with heat like it had just stepped out of a blaze.
"Whoa—!" Lü Ji reined it in, stopping just before him. "Junior Brother!"
He was still catching his breath as he spoke. "I just received your transfer order!"
Chen Sanshi blinked. "Transfer?"
"The Ministry of War has ordered you to select twenty men to accompany you," Lü Ji explained. "Then you're to set out for Laizhou, to join the Eastern Campaign against Qing!"
"Eastern Campaign?" Chen Sanshi frowned. "Only twenty people?"
"The journey's long," Lü Ji said. "Too many men will only slow you down. Once you head south, you'll travel by water—fastest route to the eastern front."
He leaned closer, lowering his voice. "The Emperor's already prepared three thousand Black Armored cavalry for you. Once you arrive, they'll be under your full command."
"Black Armored Cavalry?"
Chen Sanshi's expression stiffened. He'd heard of them.
The Black Armored Army—the Emperor's personal elite force.
Every soldier clad in dark armor, every warhorse of the finest breed.
"And one more thing," Lü Ji added. "Fourth Brother's already there, waiting for you. Pack up quickly—you'll depart soon. From what I hear, this is His Majesty giving you a chance to earn even greater merit. Don't waste it."
Chen Sanshi asked, "Does Senior Brother know how the war on the eastern front is going?"
"All's going smoothly," Lü Ji said firmly. "If nothing unexpected happens, the army will reclaim three provinces within a year. When it's done, His Majesty will hold a grand ceremony at Ziwei Mountain, honoring the meritorious at the ancestral shrine's old site—"
He was suddenly cut off.
"Beast, what are you doing?!"
While they were talking, Lü Ji's fiery steed had stepped closer to White Swan, Chen Sanshi's white mare.
Before anyone could react, White Swan lifted a front hoof and kicked the flame-colored stallion square in the chest, then turned her head aside with royal disdain.
The fiery horse let out a wounded snort, both pained and humiliated, but still tried to inch closer.
"Smack!"
Lü Ji's palm came down hard on the beast's head. "Beast! Have you lost your mind?!"
Chen Sanshi was silent.
Lü Ji cleared his throat awkwardly. "Ahem… this horse usually isn't like that. Must be the heat. Anyway, Junior Brother, make your preparations. Three days from now, you'll depart from Liangzhou."
Chen Sanshi clasped his hands in salute. "Thank you for the notice, Senior Brother."
Lü Ji nodded once, then turned his horse and rode off, red steam trailing behind him.
Chen Sanshi stood there for a moment, exhaling. "Just got back for two months…"
Even for him, the exhaustion was setting in.
But in a chaotic world—who wasn't tired?
And honestly, he had it better than most.
"Come on, Qianxun. Let's go home." He patted the mare's neck. "You'll get to command three thousand cavalry this time."
He chuckled softly. "They say I'm the one earning all the glory, but between us—you're the real hero. Couldn't do any of it without you. And no, I'm not stingy—just short on medicine. You keep performing like this, I'll make sure you're rewarded properly."
Man and horse exchanged the same familiar rhythm of trust as they trotted toward the Grand Commander's residence.
"Papa!"
At the gate stood Chen Yunxi, waiting with her maid.
"Come here, Xixi."
Chen Sanshi lifted the little girl into the saddle, handing her a stick of candied hawthorn he'd bought along the way.
He'd recently gone to the Grand Commander's residence himself, searching for the young gentleman his daughter often mentioned.
But even Yunxi couldn't find him anymore. It was as if he had vanished into thin air.
"Again…"
Chen Sanshi noticed the same thing as before.
The moment he left the Grand Commander's mansion, two Daoist priests from Ciyun Temple started following him from a distance.
He stopped casually in front of his residence and said softly, "Xixi, go home first. It's getting cold. I'll head to the mountain and hunt a tiger—make two pelts for you and your little brother."
"Good day, young miss," Siqin greeted as she came forward to take the child.
Chen Sanshi gave White Swan a gentle pat and rode off.
The two priests trailed behind.
Both were at the Meridian-Connecting (Mastery) stage.
He hadn't tested his new strength since breaking through.
This was the perfect opportunity to try out his arrows—and maybe keep one alive for questioning.
If they were from the Wushen Cult, perhaps he could finally find out what those people were planning.
The steady beat of hooves echoed.
Then—
"Buzz—"
A sharp twang like thunder split the air.
Two hundred paces away, one of the trailing Daoists suddenly froze.
He hadn't even seen Chen raise his bow before the arrow was already screaming toward him—only a few steps from piercing his heart.
Startled, he raised a hand, scoffing as he gathered his internal force.
'Ridiculous!' he thought. 'What use is an arrow against a high-realm cultivator?'
But the moment his palm—charged with twenty percent of his internal strength—met the arrowhead, his eyes went wide.
That wasn't ordinary energy.
It was True Dragon Force—the True Dragon Strength!
An arrow… carrying internal force?!
He had no time to react further.
The arrow punched clean through his palm, shredded his chest, and obliterated his heart before flying another ten zhang forward, embedding itself deep in the ground with a heavy thud that shook the dirt.
One arrow—one kill.