Chapter 6

 HHYL Fanfic2 Chapter 6

In the middle of the night after the disrupted truce negotiation...

The late summer's night was cold albeit there was a trace of lingering heat from the day. The sounds of cicadas interrupted the silence from time to time, producing a kind of suspense that would fill the heart with uncertain anxiety.

This tranquility of night was broken by two pairs of heavy feet, which strode down the winding corridor with hastened steps. Their unrestrained steps were those of anxiety. Deep frowns were framing their troubled faces. As they approached the doorstep of an exquisitely crafted wooden door, they looked around for a while, making sure that no one was around to see them before pushing the heavy door open.

A maiden who saw them almost screamed in surprise, but she quickly covered her mouth before she could make a startled shriek that would have resonated all through the Palace.

Recovering from her initial shock, she softly addressed the two unannounced guests. "Master, Her Ladyship is already asleep."

One of the guests, with his lowered tone, urgently said to her, "Wake her up! Tell her, there is an emergency."

Seemingly hesitant, the maiden looked at them, clearly objecting to comply with their request.

"Apology, Master. Her Ladyship had ordered me not to wake her even if it was the King who is coming."

"Ru Ai, I order you to wake her, now!!" The authority in that voice was absolute. Ru Ai looked torn yet she had no other choice but to obediently bow and quickly glided to the inner room.

The waiting room was exquisitely decorated with a distinctive touch of the Lady of the Palace. However the two guests were too consumed by their own worries to even notice, let alone admire the beautiful decorations that adorned the room. They were getting impatient, frequently casting their eyes towards the inner room. It had taken much longer than expected before the beautiful lady, with her graceful steps, slowly made her way out from the inner room to meet them. Her face showed her clear annoyance to have her beauty sleep disturbed. She didn't even have enough time to dress herself in her luxurious garments, instead, she was still wearing her simple sleeping gown. Her carelessly unfastened long hair was flowing and framed her pretty face from both sides giving her an air of mystery.

Glaring at the two guests, she asked with her melodious yet stern voice. "General Yan Li, I hope you brought forth good news as you have disturbed me from my rest in the dead of the night."

Bowing his head in a respectful manner, General Yan Li's stressed face was a little hidden from the Lady's sight. The Imperial Guard, Yan Yi, stood by his side in a calm manner despite his frowning brows.

"I'm afraid that's not the case, Lady Yu." Looking at his distressed face this Lady whose beauty could cause the downfall of the country was immediately wide awake as she saw the meaning behind their sudden visitation in the middle of the night; General Yan Li had come to give her his confirmation about her worry. Their plan had failed.

"What will that be??" Even though she could already guess the unpleasant news that she was about to hear, she still wanted to hear it directly from them, stubbornly hoping to defy fate.

Inhaling deeply, he shook his head in remorse. "Lady Yu, my deepest apology. Just now, our man handed in his report. The captives have successfully escaped from our clutches."

"What?!!" Her round big eyes formed a perfect circular shape as she exclaimed in shock. Her heart immediately contracted, all color left her beautiful face but the initial shock was quickly replaced by constrained anger. This was even worse than she first anticipated.

After a period of time, she calmed herself and vehemently demanded answers. "Explain! How could that happen? Did you not act accordingly?"

"Xiang Yu. What are you trying to say?" The man who had spoken with a superior manner to Ru Ai just now, flaunted yet another kind of superiority in front of Lady Yu.

"Second Brother. It is not my intention to offend the both of you. But please do take note of the seriousness of our predicament. If something went wrong with our plan, it would not be a mere banishment or any light punishment that you can think of. We are dealing with Datong and with none other than that ruthless Emperor Jing Zong himself. Even Royal Father King Li Xiang, who was known as the best strategist our country had ever had in her history, had failed to predict his actions. We should never nor could we afford to commit the same mistake."

"And with this kind of blunder, can you tell me what had actually gone wrong? I don't see any flaw in my plans."

Lady Yu had full confidence in her ability to scheme which she inherited from her Royal Father. Her father was the one who single-handedly taught her about strategy and tactics. And so far, she hadn't encountered anyone except the Crown Prince, who had not fallen for her calculated tactics. Lady Yu had no other choice but to inwardly curse whoever had caused her perfect plan to fall apart.

Seeing that the two men in front of her were reluctant to further speak, as if unsure as to where to start their explanation, Lady Yu pressed down all of her resentment and coldly told them...

"I already knew that you captured the wrong person." There wasn't any reaction from either man. After all, with the useless King running away from the battlefield as soon as his Crown Prince, who usually acted on his behalf, was captured, the King would have no one to rely on. The King would most definitely run with his tail between his legs and hide in his harem after being intimidated by Emperor Jing Zong in such a dreadful way. There was no way that this cunning Lady Yu wouldn't hear about this matter from the King himself.

"It was alright if the person we captured was not Datong's Emperor, we could still use his subject as a means to get to him." Her icy cold voice coupled with her sharp eyes, penetrated and froze the heart of whoever heard her. "However...You erroneously got the Royal Crown Prince, Huan Shu Cheng. He is a very dangerous person indeed --- our natural enemy. And now that he has escaped..." Deliberately pausing to imply her anxiety, she heaved a heavy sigh.

"I am afraid that not only our plan has to be revised from scratch but also that there is no way he wouldn't suspect me of being the one who is pulling the strings in this scheme. He loathes me for bewitching his father and I know he has been waiting for a chance to avenge His Royal Mother, the Queen."

The beautiful face was now overcast. The brows that were shaped into neat lines were furrowed as she feverishly thought of other plausible plans.

Against her will, she had to admit that the Crown Prince, despite his calm and warm outwards appearance, truthfully was her natural enemy. Her beauty could deceive the King, her seduction could make the courtiers waver and her brilliance could charm the heart of the beholder, yet none of her weapons could work on Huan Shu Cheng. Beauty, his own beauty was already so extreme that it surpassed all other men in Mingdi. Seduction, he was not so easily tempted unlike his self-indulgent father --- his own harem contained less than ten concubines. Brilliance, The Crown Prince was renowned for his extraordinary skill in both civic and military matters.

"The Crown Prince has been watching me closely to find my weakness. And now, I believe he would use this opportunity to get rid of me...."

Looking at the Imperial Guard, Lady Yu failed to hide her bitter feelings.

"You are blaming me, Xiang Yu?" Cocking his head, this Imperial Guard shot Lady Yu a very dangerous look.

"Didn't I say from the very beginning, this kind of reckless act was very risky. If we should fail, we probably would have to pay dearly."

"So, you rather live comfortably in this Palace of yours instead of avenging our Royal Family who had been ruthlessly annihilated by that damn Emperor of Datong? We don't even know anything regarding Xiang Wen. How could you sleep peacefully?"

"Second Brother. Of course I am thinking about Xiang Wen. But what can I do? Have you forgotten that I am just a concubine? Do you think I have the freedom to step out of the Palace as I please? By the way, did the Emperor suspect you? You have a very strong resemblance to Xiang Wen."

Indeed, the one they introduced as General Yan Li's younger brother was actually Lady Yu's Royal Second Brother, Prince Li Yi Xiang. He and Xiang Wen were born from the same concubine, no wonder among the Royal Siblings, he and Xiang Wen shared the strongest resemblance. He escaped that dreadful event only because he was away on his own adventure. Being the second Prince, his burden was not as heavy as his Royal Big Brother. Also, Yi Xiang was not keen about the throne, he preferred his freedom and loved being adventurous and carefree. But the news about their country nevertheless was devastating even for him, though he had no aspirations for power, he had enjoyed all the privileges that his position as a Royal Prince had afforded him --- wealth, women and time to go on adventures as he pleased. Now, faced with the prospect of living as a commoner, he felt deep umbrage towards the man that had inflicted such a grievance upon him.

As soon as he heard the terrifying news about the Country of Xiang, he headed back to find his whole Kingdom in a pitiful condition. Consumed by grief and left with no other choice, he fled to his most powerful sister residing in the most powerful Kingdom within the Eastern Region, Lady Yu of Mingdi, to ask for aid despite knowing that Xiang Yu would definitely be unwilling to help him. Nonetheless, he knew he could force her into submission by making use of his status as her Second Brother.

Together, they hatched a plan for revenge. Step by step, they proceeded to make their could-go-no-wrong scheme come true...or so they thought.

The first step was to place Yi Xiang as close as he could be to the King. As the King's bodyguard. They were not faced with any difficulty as General Yan Li recommended him as his brother from the village. That foolish King wouldn't have any suspicions. And if the smart Crown Prince performed an investigation over this matter, he would find out that General Yan Li indeed had a brother named Yan Yi but the real Yan Yi had gone on his quest to dominate the Jianghu since long ago. So, there wasn't anything to worry about with regards to Yi Xiang's status.

Next, they were to connect with their other sisters who had also been given as brides to other rulers in the Eastern Region. Fortunately, the Xiang Kingdom's sisters were blessed with beauty amongst other qualities. Most of them had the same favorable position as Lady Yu. Under Prince Yi Xiang's command, they conspired to avenge their family as well as their homeland.

As a matter of fact, Lady Yu wasn't as keen to have this kind of reckless revenge. Albeit saddened by the news about her homeland, since she was sent as a tribute, she no longer had the right to go back to her country. On that account, she has only cared for her own life, unlike her brother who had lost everything once their country had fallen.

And now, having to face such a predicament which would definitely harm her position, Lady Yu was half blaming her brother for her fated-to-be-doomed position. When her brother came to her and asked for her assistance to avenge their Royal Family, she was actually quite reluctant. Granted, she loved her father, but still she didn't care that much about the rest of the family. She was already very happy and content with her current position, living comfortably, and controlling the King for her own interest.

But ever since childhood, Yi Xiang was not one to be refused. His stubbornness was infamous within the Royal family. He would do whatever to get what he wanted. --- Her brother would even go as far as to ask the other sisters to help.

Xiang Yu couldn't help but be displeased with her brother's eagerness for revenge.

What's there to avenge? What can they gain after this revenge?? Nothing!! Their beloved father had already died and their homeland totally annihilated. Absolutely pointless!! But the cost should they fail, would no doubt be extremely dear!! Too dear!! Xiang Yu unconsciously shuddered at the thought.

Yi Xiang was just too consumed by his desire for revenge.

Carefully, left without much option, Xiang Yu helped him, while trying her best not to be exposed.

They knew that Datong would eventually come to Mingdi to continue their 'Conquer the East Expedition'. Even though they could not be sure about the mysterious Emperor of the Great Datong Empire's movements, given that Mingdi was the strongest in this Eastern Region, they anticipated that the Emperor would come personally and get all the glory. No... For their plan to be successful, the Emperor must come. ---Fortunately, the Emperor did come.

They had carefully planned for every single possibility. And knowing the weak King so well, he would eventually call for a truce. Although it was unexpected for Datong to offer the truce first, nevertheless, they had planned ahead for that situation.

Yi Xiang had prepared the strongest tranquilizer to take down Datong's Emperor. The so-called tranquilizer that he had gotten from his acquaintance in the Hunters Tribe was said to be able to put down a person for a week and should that person happened to have a weak body, that person could die. Preferably, this cursed Emperor Jing Zong was a typical Emperor who only possesses a great mind but a weak body. In that case, he would suffer a great deal from a mere scratch of this tranquilizer.

"No. I don't think that damned Emperor suspected anything. He was indifferent when Hu Tong told him our identities. Instead, it was his Second-in-Command that was suspicious. He was looking at me as if examining my every move. Damn!! If only that Second-in-Command didn't block the arrow that I shot, our plan would have been successful. Even if we erroneously captured the Crown Prince, he could be counted as a bonus since you are planning to get rid of him anyway." Obviously, Prince Yi Xiang had mingled among those crude and barbaric tribes for far too long. His speech was now far from being that of a noble.

"Prince Yi Xiang. Pardon my frankness, but to get rid of the Crown Prince was not a matter as easy as words." General Yan Li respectfully corrected Yi Xiang about his lack of knowledge regarding Mingdi's state of affairs.

"What do you mean, General Yan? Isn't he an obstacle for the both of you? Getting rid of him is in order, isn't it?"

"Indeed... But as you can see from these past months, to most of the courtiers, he is acknowledged as a more important figure than the King himself. Even so, he didn't recklessly take over the power from his Royal Father and risk being condemned as unfilial. Rather, he gains more and more supporters for his formidable achievements. Actually, power wise, he has more than his Father. But that powerful man deliberately chose to be a Military Adviser instead of forcefully ascending the throne."

Truth be told, General Yan Li used to be the most powerful man in the military. He controlled the entire Country's army as his own. But ever since Crown Prince Huan Shu Cheng became the Military Adviser, his talents, little by little, gradually charmed the troops. His perfect and flawless strategies always brought in the best results. Increasing the morale of the soldiers by minimalizing casualties. The Crown Prince had successfully set aside the great General's role. General Yan Li was nothing but a mere pawn now -- everything now went to the Crown Prince.

For a man as proud as General Yan Li, to be overshadowed by his junior, even though he was the Crown Prince, was considered as his life's biggest disgrace. He couldn't accept the fact that he had lost his great power within the military. ---Now the entire military was on Crown Prince's side. Meaning, the Crown Prince had the entire Country in his hand. --- Both lowly courtiers and high officials, as well as the troops were siding with him too. Not to mention that the people of Mingdi also loved him, as he was a much better leader than his father.

"I see..." Yi Xiang nodded his head. "An Emperor is nothing without his people to guide, a General is nothing without his army to lead." Though most of the time Yi Xiang's words were rude, but hearing him unexpectedly speak this kind of wisdom, one could still remember that he was an educated Prince.

It was exactly as Yi Xiang had said; a General would only be an empty title if he no longer had the power over his army. This was the very reason why he accepted Lady Yu's offer to work with her, as Lady Yu was the real puppet master who pulled the King's strings behind the curtains.

They both had the same goal, --- to gradually strip the Crown Prince of his power before getting rid of him for good. They couldn't move recklessly. For those who only judged Crown Prince Huan Shu Cheng by his outward appearance, his warm smile and gentle nature, they would easily be misguided and mistake him as a fool; believing that he was one who could be manipulated easily. However, those who had faced the real Huan Shu Cheng knew better than to take him lightly.

"Alright...we admit to our blunder. It would have been better if I was the one who had gotten caught instead. It would have been easier for me to keep an eye on our captive. Alas, the Crown Prince moved faster than me..." Regretting his slow movement, Yi Xiang shook his head.

Even though he could be considered as the most talented in martial arts amongst the Xiang's Princes, Li Yi Xiang must admit that he was still a far cry when compared to the Crown Prince of Mingdi, Huan Shu Cheng.

"And the Second-in-Command that was hit by the arrow, I could never fathom it, how could he move so freely after that? To the extent that he could escape from our hands." Yi Xiang was fully confident in the tranquilizer he possessed. He had proven the effectiveness many times.

Looking at the confused Yi Xiang as if he couldn't believe that his secret weapon could fail, General Yan heaved a sigh as well.

"That was an unpredictable factor we had never considered. We had never expected that the Crown Prince would let himself be captured. Though I had gone as far as to kill the reporting soldier when he was about to say something about Fu Country as the ambusher."

"Indeed, your movement back then was brilliant, General Yan. Otherwise, even that idiot King would have realized that Xiang Yu was behind the ambush scheme. I will reprimand Xiang Mi for being careless. How could she send her ambusher bearing the Fu Country's symbol?"

Lady Yu was clearly showing her displeased expression. How could they still leisurely talk about what had already happened. What they needed now was a measure to counter the Crown Prince. "Second Brother, let's not cry over spilled milk. We have to prepare for the worst. We know how ruthless Datong's Emperor can be. Besides...I need to be wary of this dangerous Crown Prince." Lady Yu stopped them from going on with their rants of the past events.

"Then we have no other choice but to utilize that poison." A light of excitement flashed through Yi Xiang's eyes like a meteor on a moonless night. He had always fancied the ideas of secret attacks since he had mingled with those crude tribes. The excitement to see the enemy die without even knowing what or who was killing him.

The poison that Yi Xiang was referring to was a deadly poison, which he acquired from one of his adventures. A concoction made from various poisonous plants and animal venom which had no existing antidote.

Lady Yu had been opposed to this idea before. She wanted to have Datong's Emperor alive and personally enjoy his slow death. Ending his life in an instant by using the poison would be too easy for the culprit who had mercilessly annihilated her Royal Family. --- Since she had complied with her brother's wish for revenge, she might as well enjoy the process. And who knows, she might be able to seduce the Emperor and control the Great Empire.

Although she didn't care about her siblings, she loved her Royal Father. ---King Li Xiang was a very good father, he taught Xiang Yu everything she wanted to know despite her being a girl. Xiang Yu was his first daughter, furthermore, her mother had been one of his favorite concubines, thus King Li Xiang doted on her the most.

But now she had to push all those thoughts aside and focus on the urgent matter at hand caused by the stupid blunder from these two men. Indeed, all men were only foolish creatures. Even with the crystal clear and detailed plans, they still could make such a fatal error.

"In my humble opinion, it is the best way indeed. I have witnessed with my own eyes, Datong's Emperor is not unskilled in martial arts. Judging by the Qi he emitted, his kung-fu is on a higher level than both of us. I am afraid, to subdue him, relying merely on our man power is nearly impossible. Then again, his subjects alone are more than enough to prevent us from getting near to him. General Mu Yue's fame is not an empty name."

As a fellow General, albeit standing on the opposite side, naturally General Yan Li would know about General Mu Yue's reputation. All successful achievements untainted by even a single failure. Although the so called General did not possess the same tall, big and bulky figures like most of the Generals that Yan Li had ever known, still, his snobbish and intimidating aura was not something one without ability could successfully imitate.

Lady Yu shifted her glittering eyes to the veil of darkness outside. Pondering over the things they had reported to her.

"Then, have you contacted the pursuing troops?" She didn't look at them as she was still in deep thought. Trying to squeeze out something to counter this utterly outrageous blunder of her flawless plan.

"They are pursuing them at this very moment as we speak. They will not stop before they find our captives."

Lady Yu let out a heavy sigh to lessen the burden on her chest.

"Should they truly escape from our hands, with the utmost probability, he would find out that the troops that captured them were from Fu Country. Xiang Mi's blunder was indeed unpardonable. Knowing that Fu Country was involved, Huan Shu Cheng would definitely figure that I am related in that ambush as well. Xiang Mi...despite being a Queen, she is still lacking." As if talking to herself, Lady Yu spoke softly while still gazing into the darkness.

Fixing her penetrating big eyes at the men, resolutely she told them:

"I guess, we really have no choice but to eliminate them. Brother Yi Xiang, prepare not only one poison this time. We have to make sure that the arrows won't hit the wrong person anymore. And make sure they have no room to escape their fate."

"I have told you to use this method from beginning. I don't understand why you have to hesitate!" Impatience was probably one of Yi Xiang's most annoying traits. Lady Yu found his tone to be extremely annoying.

"As I had stated before, we couldn't have the King or the Crown Prince fall victim as well. We still need them." Lady Yu hated to repeat herself so many times. But the straightforward Yi Xiang could never understand that twisted mind of hers.

"But why? Isn't it good for you? You can have this Kingdom all for yourself. I know you are aiming for this." Prince Yi Xiang was clearly mocking her for her ambitious plan.

Lady Yu's face grew taut at once. The distorted beautiful face was now displaying a kind of unsightly scene.

"Indeed... what you have said might sound so favorable. But don't forget. Even though the Queen was banished to the Cold Palace, her title is still that of Queen. And her son is the Crown Prince. This fact alone, makes it so that I can't recklessly make my move."

If something went wrong with the King, without a doubt, the Queen and the Crown Prince would rise to the supreme position. And without the King, Lady Yu would lose everything too. Her position was unshakable only because the King supported her. As a woman, she could not rule in her own name. The people would never accept it, not to mention her title was only a Lady and she didn't even have a son to place on the throne to rule in his stead as Regent.

"Then why don't you take care of the Crown Prince using the ambush as an excuse. This way, nobody could complain if you take the Queen's position."

Completely annoyed by his brother careless remark, Lady Yu inwardly rolled her eyes while maintaining her composed appearance. "Brother Yi Xiang. Haven't you seen and learnt enough during your stay? It was as General Yan Li had said. We couldn't simply have him assassinated. His hidden influence couldn't be taken lightly. This country is running this smoothly only because of him. The King is not someone worthy of respect. If the Crown Prince is not here, the country would be in a great turmoil. Both internally and externally. Although we can control the Kingdom from inside, we couldn't withstand the assaults from other countries if it was not for his brilliance. Although it is annoying, we need his figure until we can find another reliable figure to replace him."

Yi Xiang opened his mouth as if to say something, but Lady Yu stopped him from speaking by continuing her speech.

"But since things have come to this point I have no choice but to eliminate him now. Two tigers couldn't co-exist on the same mountain. And I will deal with the consequences that may arise, come what may. His existence is nothing but a menace for not only my position but for our lives as well. We are facing the situation where only one of us could survive. If he lives, we all die or worse." Narrowing her eyes, she said firmly. "General Yan Li, order the troops to eliminate him. Do not let him reach the Palace no matter what. If, by any chance, he manages to reach the Palace, then I can guarantee you all... our heads will surely be rolling down to the ground a short time after." In her eyes, General Yan Li could see the weight of the matter.

"Brother Yi Xiang. You should make haste to Xiang Mi and inform her that she should prepare as well. I believe, if somehow Datong found out about us, the remaining Royal members of Xiang ...that ruthless Emperor would come to us to seek vengeance for his hatred towards us although we still do not know what we have done to earn his enmity."

Without wasting another moment, they left the Palace in haste. They knew the peril of their error would cost them their lives.

After they left, the calm façade she had maintained fell off her face. Even the fresh seductive color of the plum flowers drained from her cheek. Her body was shaking uncontrollably. She had a really bad premonition about how this whole quest of seeking revenge would turn out. But there was nothing else she could do but to rely on the General's power to prevent Shu Cheng from returning to the Palace. The courtiers who supported her were only a bunch of lustful old men who valued their own life. Lady Yu wanted to use them to establish her position as the Queen but they were useless for these kinds of circumstances.

Huan Shu Cheng, that dangerous man, knowing about her involvement in the ambush was not her main concern. Since she believed she could convince and manipulate the stupid King to do her biddings. Because Shu Cheng was still ultimately a filial son, he would not force his own father into a difficult position. That the Crown Prince only intended to make her lose the King's favor. What weighted on her mind the most, what she feared the most, was that the Crown Prince would decide to use Datong's hand to get rid of her.

Judging by how Huan Hu Tong reacted over the mere mention of Datong's Emperor, --- that old King was shaking like a leaf --- Lady Yu knew she would ultimately meet her doom if Huan Shu Cheng used Datong to press that useless King.

Nervously, she retreated to her chamber with full awareness that she could never sleep peacefully before the Crown Prince and the other captive were reported as dead. No matter what, she couldn't shake away the very ominous feeling that descended upon her.

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A gust of raising dust caused by the dashing horse was following behind two horse riders who were seemingly in a great rush. The spell of dust behind them was like a premonition of a deadly storm. But the two riders were not slowing down their horses even as the wary look was reflected in their eyes. Their minds were focused in the front, hoping to see the point of their destination as soon as possible.

Leaving the Great Datong's military camp, Huan Shu Cheng was slightly dissatisfied. Not only could he not have a nice talk with Lu Cang as he had expected, he couldn't even see Lu Cang before he left.

Lu Cang and the Emperor were having a serious conversation in the Emperor's tent and nobody dared to get closer than a radius of twenty steps of the tent.

"General Mu, is it alright for you not to be involved in the details of their strategy?" Shu Cheng was half expecting and half hoping Mu Yue would bring him to the Emperor's tent so that he could spend more time with Lu Cang. Carefully, he chose the most tactful words.

Mu Yue rolled his eyes. When hell freezes over!!! Why would Mu Yue want to be involved in those "details" since he already knew so well what kind of "conversation" they were having? Mu Yue kept his sneering remarks to himself but answered in his most indifferent tone.

"Your Highness... His Majesty has given me a clear order. That's to escort you." And to get you as far away as possible from them. Added Mu Yue inwardly. He was already quite irritated. "We should be on our way to Your Highness's Royal Father and let him know that the truce had proceeded smoothly. I still need to go back and lead my soldiers to Fu Kingdom. I can't leave my responsibility to my Second-in-Command."

Of course Mu Yue couldn't say that Lu Cang had no military experience. He might be a Bandit King and used to be a leader. But still, leading a band of foolish bandits to rob and kidnap people was undoubtedly different from leading an army of trained soldiers to the glory of a nation.

"Why? In my opinion, he is a very capable man. You shouldn't worry too much. He would lead your army to another victory!" From Lu Cang's shining brightly eyes, Shu Cheng could clearly see his brilliant quality. He honestly regarded Lu Cang as a very capable man.

As if! The Crown Prince had no idea at all! The one that had Mu Yue worried the most was the Emperor himself. Mu Yue knew exactly how the Emperor would react if something should happen to Lu Cang. For goodness sake, he had personally seen what happened to those unfortunate souls when Lu Cang was merely scratched by one of them, all were swiftly and thoroughly eliminated like insects. But seeing that there was no point in telling Huan Shu Cheng this matter, Mu Yue kept his mouth shut.

As expected, when Huan Shu Cheng and Mu Yue arrived at the Mingdi camp, the King and his trusted subjects were nowhere to be seen. According to a soldier, soon after the ambush, the King had hurriedly returned to the Palace.

Sighing for his Royal Father's predictable cowardice, Shu Cheng turned to Mu Yue. "General Mu. Looks like I have to go back to the Palace. Then, what about you?"

The snobbish face of General Mu Yue was distorted in annoyance. His frowns had never left his brows ever since they set out from Datong's camp. His patience and self-control had been fully put to the test as he had been diligently holding in his urge to kill this damn Crown Prince on the spot.

How could Mu Yue not be annoyed with this obviously-in-love with Lu Cang Crown Prince of Mingdi, Huan Shu Cheng, especially now that he had had to tolerate his presence for an extended time because of his escort duties?

As soon as Jing and Lu Cang left the Military tent, this Crown Prince gave him a suspicious smile while saying he had a lot of questions to consult Mu Yue on. At first, Mu Yue thought it would be questions regarding their next plan. But who would have thought, the questions were: "General Mu, Your Second-in-Command is a really capable man, isn't he? What does he usually do when he is in the military camp?? I can see that the soldiers all like him, they cheered so loudly when they saw him. He must be a really good leader, right? Do you know what he usually does during his free time? Do you attend the court with him? Or does he attend different courts since he is part of nobility as well? " and so on...... All his questions were about Lu Cang and Lu Cang only. Not once did he question or discuss about their plan.

The worst was his persistence in getting the answers to all of his questions! He would wait patiently with his trademark warm and friendly smile, scratch that line, ---it was the most irritating smile in Mu Yue's eyes, for Mu Yue to answer. How in the world would Mu Yue know so many personal things about his only by name Second-in-Command! Mu Yue had no choice but to resort to making up most of the answers just to shut the Crown Prince up. While inwardly cursing both the Crown Prince and Lu Cang for creating such an unnecessary headache for him. Mu Yue would like to see how Jing would react if he found out about this. Wait wait wait...... On second thought, it was better if the possessive Emperor didn't know at all.

What irked Mu Yue the most was that this Crown Prince didn't take the matter in hand seriously. Instead, he was more interested in inquiring about Lu Cang. Mu Yue, who always took Jing's order with the utmost respect couldn't stand this kind of carefree and seemingly looking-down-on-the-Emperor's-decree attitude.

As if all these were not enough, the obviously amused-by-his-predicament face of Ding Peng as he quickly excused himself while throwing Mu Yue a 'good-luck' look, added more to Mu Yue's irritation. Didn't they share the same troubles from the Imperial couple? Mu Yue would make sure that Ding Peng also had an earful after his 'adventure' with this Crown Prince.

If not taking into account that Huan Shu Cheng was now their ally, --- whether he was the Crown Prince or whatnot, Mu Yue most definitely would have strangled this chatty Crown Prince and gagged his mouth to make him shut up.

"His Majesty's order was clear. I am to accompany you on 'His' behalf." Sourly, Mu Yue had to go with Huan Shu Cheng to the Palace. And judging by how this Prince's eyes were shining with excitement, Mu Yue knew, he would have another bad day. However nothing could be as bad as another endless talk and further questions about Lu Cang.

While smiling at Mu Yue, Shu Cheng voice abruptly became heavier. For a moment, the air around him had shifted. "That's good. But I should warn you first. Our Palace is not as peaceful as your Datong's Palace. One should walk with full caution, as we can never tell who our ally is and who our enemy is. The court is filled with double-faced courtiers. They might utter the most flowery praises in your presence while sharpening their knives at their back, ready to stab you when you are the least aware."

The sudden change in atmosphere around this Prince who usually gave people an impression of being a happy-go-lucky friendly fellow made Mu Yue's initially annoyed face change to his usual serious face.

Indeed, Mu Yue had heard about many countries that had the same troublesome struggle for power. Whether it was from the outside, or from inside, such as the raising of the unrests, people who claimed they were doing what the Heaven had decided, to eliminate a bad Ruler. Or even the internal affairs, such as the fight for the crown within the Royal Family. Unlike Datong, where even though the Emperor had a twin with the same leadership caliber, they both were working in harmony without any intention of treason. And the unrest had been drastically decreased ever since the ruling of Emperor Jing Zong. Most of them gave up the idea of uprising since the country had flourished more than ever and the people were living in peace and harmony. The small stubborn rebellion groups were easily suppressed without any meaningful fight.

"Your Highness, my gratitude for the warning. I will definitely watch my step." Unlike Mu Yue who had threatened Shu Cheng with this line before, Shu Cheng's tone of speaking was displaying the weight of the matter.

Huan Shu Cheng gave some instructions to the Captains to prepare for another battle, but not against Datong, instead, they were to assist Datong. Considering that Fu's Country was involved, they might need to be on their highest alert. Fu Country was well-known for their active military campaign. Their soldiers were very well-trained and strong. And above all, Fu was infamous as they would strive to win no matter what, even using 'by the hook or the crook' methods.

Briefing them about their next battle and ordering them to join Datong's army, the soldiers were justly in a state of confusion. They were just engaged in battles against Datong and now they suddenly were to aid Datong, no wonder they were puzzled. Not to mention the absence of their Great General. Who would lead the army?

Huan Shu Cheng convinced them that Datong would lead them as they were now Datong's ally. And Datong's Military Commander should be able to fill the General's position in leading them --- of course he meant Lu Cang.

Albeit a bit confused, they went along with the Military Adviser's command and prepared themselves to join forces with Datong's Military.

Leaving his Army in Datong's hand, Huan Shu Cheng proceeded with his initial plan to take care of their internal problems.

To take care of the root of all evil in the Palace, Lady Yu.

Shu Cheng had loathed this foxy Lady Yu for a very long time. But she was too sly. Hiding behind his Royal Father's shadows, making it harder for Shu Cheng to overthrow her. Shu Cheng also knew that Lady Yu had been trying to replace his Royal Mother's position as the Queen --- she had gathered some officials within the court to back her up.

There was no way Shu Cheng would let her have her way in the Royal Palace. It was actually a good thing that his Royal Mother was banished to the narrow Cold Palace. That cunning Concubine would not have any chance to assassinate her as Shu Cheng put the utmost security around that Palace. The risk was higher when his Royal Mother stayed in her Royal Queen's residence. Too many people to be watched.

Now that Shu Cheng had the reason as well as the backing from Datong, that vixen would be history in no time.

Huan Shu Cheng was sure that the vixen would try whatever within her power to eliminate him.

And it all happened as what Shu Cheng had predicted. Even before they reached the Palace, they were ambushed several times. As if not to let them reach the Palace. But the ambushers had the worst of luck. If it was Shu Cheng alone, they might have succeeded in their attempts. It was not just one group of fighters but several different groups ambushed them. One group after another waited for them. Those groups were emitting their fierce murderous aura. Definitely determined to kill Shu Cheng.

"Your Highness, do you have any idea why we were attacked again and again?"

Smiling, no... sneering, Huan Shu Cheng looked at the attackers' direction. "Why else? To prevent me from going back to the Palace and revealing the culprit's identity."

Although facing such obstacles, Shu Cheng and Mu Yue finally could get rid of all of them. Shu Cheng could also guess that General Yan Li was the villain who prepared those lively parties to obstruct his way.

---------

Mingdi's claim of being the greatest country in the Eastern Region was only a bluff used to discourage other countries from invading. Their Palace, though still not on par with Datong, was considerably majestic. Unfortunately all these magnificent features were tainted by a weak and useless King.

He was not trying to comport himself in a more dignified manner, rather, he showed his extremely distressed face after Shu Cheng told him that the truce had been concluded. Initially, he was brimming with happiness once he heard that his prided son, Shu Cheng had successfully sealed the truce. ---Mu Yue had a doubt, that the idiotic grin was actually an inheritance? But soon after the King learnt what the condition was behind the truce, his face had turned pale.

"Can't it be negotiated further, Shu Cheng?"

"I'm afraid not, Royal Father. Emperor Jing Zong was set on their offer."

"But..."

"Father, pardon Shu Cheng's brazenness, but you have to choose. Between this country's future and her, which one is more important? Datong has offered us their full assistance and will let us govern this Eastern Region under Datong's name. The countries that Datong had conquered before will become part of Mingdi. Anyway, we are not to lose anything. Instead, we might become bigger. Datong's only request for our pledge of loyalty was giving them the head of Lady Yu. ---One of the Xiang Country's Princesses." The one who breathed word about Lady Yu to Emperor Jing Zong was actually Shu Cheng himself.

Ever since he knew that Emperor Jing Zong personally went to flatten the Country of Xiang, Shu Cheng had carefully planned to use Datong as a means to get rid of the foxy Lady Yu for good. He also knew that his Royal Father would be pressured by the mere mention of Datong.

Shu Cheng was not the least bit surprised to see his Royal Father's indecisiveness. Sighing, he pressed his Father to the corner. "General Mu Yue here will act as Emperor Jing Zong's proxy and be the witness of the execution. He would report back to Emperor Jing Zong within two days. If he doesn't report back within two days, then Datong would consider the truce as void and resume their assault on Mingdi. By then, I believe, the loss would not only be a mere concubine."

Realizing the sacrifice he made would save his country, or to be more accurate, to save his head and his position, albeit in his greatest remorse, King Huan Hu Tong decreed that Lady Yu had to commit suicide.

"Your Majesty.... What had Xiang Yu done to deserve this kind of punishment??" Lady Yu cried bitterly as if being treated so unjustly as she was dragged from her comfortable Palace.

King Huan Hu Tong had to harden his heart when he saw Lady Yu's pleading face with tears all over her beautiful face.

For her last attempt to save her life, Xiang Yu was utilizing her tears to get her way out of this awful predicament.

"Xiang Yu had served Your Majesty with the highest sincerity, with the utmost care for Your Majesty's wellbeing.... Wuuu.... Why?? Why Your Majesty??"

Softened a bit, King Huan Hu Tong helplessly looking at Shu Cheng, the same pleading eyes with his most favorite concubine.

"Shu Cheng.... Please reconsider it again..."

"Royal Father, it is not my position to make that decision. General Mu Yue is here as the Emperor's eyes and ears. If we didn't proceed as His Majesty's wish... I'm afraid that......." Intentionally left the words unfinished, Shu Cheng looked at Lady Yu with his full of compassion's eyes.

Mu Yue silently watched the whole drama without any intention to interfere. Not even when the king looked at him with his pitiful pleading expression. Mu Yue remained stoic.

"Lady Yu, to willingly undergo hardship for the sake of others is compassion. Your sacred sacrifice in order to save the country will be eternally remembered even after generations."

Fully understanding the taunting behind that seemingly concerned face, Lady Yu glared at Shu Cheng with her silent curse. She knew this day would come as soon as she heard the Crown Prince had returned to the Palace together with Datong's great General Mu Yue. She surely would not escape this dreadful fate. Emperor Jing Zong had taken everything into account by sending General Mu Yue to be the witness of her death and by stipulating that the deed had to be done within such a short time. They didn't even have the chance to deceive the Emperor by preparing a scapegoat in her place.

"Your Majesty..... Ever since Xiang Yu came to this country, Xiang Yu had totally dedicated Xiang Yu's life for Your Majesty. All Xiang Yu wishes is for Your Majesty's happiness only. Please help bring justice for Xiang Yu.... Xiang Yu wants to serve by Your Majesty's side forever......Wuuu...."

He would never have the chance to touch and enjoy that delicious body anymore. How he wished he could taste that alluring body once more, but he knew that was not possible.

"Xiang Yu my love.... Please understand that this is also hard for me.... Forgive me......"

Shu Cheng watched the whole process with well-hidden satisfaction. Finally..... The day when he saw with his own eyes, the death of this loathsome Lady Yu had come. While witnessing the entire affair from the side, Mu Yue couldn't help but be reminded of the uncanny resemblance between the Crown Prince and Jing. There was more to the Crown Prince than met the eye. Mu Yue would place him under his close surveillance.

The greatest danger that was shadowing his country had departed to the other world. The only threats left were the General and the Imperial Guard.

End of HHYL Fanfic2 Chapter 6.