《War Prisoner》


 CH 1

    The sand stretches over the horizon; the sun looks like blood. As a few eagles hover in the air back and forth over the dusk and within vicinity, there is no trace of smoke arising from kitchen, making the sunset from the city border look even more like a lonely and desolate place.


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    If standing over the top of a sand dune and watching in the distance, you could vaguely see a man dressed in white like snow. Su Yi sat over another dune. A black bamboo flute across his lips; the tone emitted was a very sad melody.


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    Suddenly, a burst of horse riding sound was heard, and then gradually appeared before his eyes, as the music also came to an end. Su Yi took the flute away from his lips, sighed and said: ¡°Is there still no envoy from the capital?¡±


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    From behind him, a man dressed in lieutenant costumes dismounted, and whispered: ¡°Yes, General! No one has arrived. The sky showed that it¡¯s rather late now. It is best to return the campsite, Sir.¡±


    .


    Su Yi stood up and looked toward the distance, then murmured: ¡°It has been dragging on for two months. How long are they intending for it to last?¡± His tone was grave. Its temperaments did not match his elegant and outstanding aura.


    .


    The Lieutenant looked up at his beautiful face, hesitantly wanting to speak. It was for some time when he could no longer refrain: ¡°Su General, according to your subordinate, you should not wait any longer. Ten days ago, a group of the trade travelers from the capital had passed through. I had made an inquiry with them, and I discovered that the salary expenditure for soldiers has long been used to build the Courtyard by His Majesty. I did not want to increase General¡¯s anxiety, so I had not informed¡­¡±


    .


    Before he finished his sentence, Su Yi General¡¯s powerful fist struck the wall indignantly and said: ¡°Benighted King harms the country. How could he use military expenditures for pleasure? Is it not logical that unless there is a home, there will be no nation? Once Kim Liao attacked, even with me, Su Yi here, and exhausted soldiers, how are we to defend? When the country is gone, the beautiful Courtyard that was built would fall into the other people¡¯s hands.  Ironically, generation of monarchs have yet to understand this principle. Perhaps my Qi¡¯s days are numbered?¡± Then he shook his head and gritted his teeth in distress.


    .


    The Lieutenant quickly advised: ¡°General,there is no need to worry. Someone might have gathered the fund supply and who knows,may be on their way here.It is still best to return to camp now.¡±


    .


    Su Yi waved his hand aside. His face resumed a passive appearance, then said: ¡°Go back Lieutenant. I will stay here a while for a moment of peace. Wan Yan Xu is recently uncharacteristic. From time to time, he had sent spies over. Surely, he will be making a move soon. I really need to contemplate a bit and be prepared for the enemy.¡±


    .


    The Lieutenant knew the General¡¯s personality. So, not able to made further proposition, he could only swung on the horse and take the same route back. Su Yi sat on the dune, overlooking the thousand miles of sand and falling deep into his memories.


    .


    Five years ago, he was just a level four rank official and had no association with the royal court. At that time, Kim Liao invaded the border. Every official in civil and military were panicking, but no one dared to agree for warfare,and rather, they yielded. Angrily, he volunteered and led an army force to rush to the border. That war was a great victory though. Since then, he had yet to return the capital. The reason was the frontier was an important place that needed to be secured, so the Emperor had ordered him to keep patrolling the border forever; and without imperial declaration, he and his troop could never set foot in the capital.


    In fact, a rich life was not what he wanted. Although windy desert sand, in his view, was better than burlesque, it was more relaxing and pleasurable. Since he was stationed at the border areas, Kim Liao refused to give up hope. There were countless large and small campaigns since then, but they ultimately failed. Three years ago, Kim Liao had mobilized the whole nation¡¯s troops to attack again. Fortunately, his foresaw initiative had skillfully won the battle.


    .


    Kim Liao King had grudgingly die, which directly resulted from the incident before returning to his capital.The King¡¯s eldest son, Wan Yan Xu ascended the throne and Kim Liao became static ever since. Qi¡¯s King was informed of the victory as he sent a eunuch to declare the decree of an encouragement awards, randomly designated Su Yi a title, and believed that it should be enough for his thanksgivings as an expression of allegiance. Since then, the King sat back and relaxed, happily spend thrifting and enjoying life.


    .


    Su Yi sighed again. His heart knew that Wan Yan Xu is superior compared to his father. This person was still young, but scheming deep, thoughtful deliberations. Just look at him forbearing for three years, and did not send out a single soldier to the frontier. He is a tough one; even the most cunning and brave desert wolf would not be a benchmark to him. In contrast to their side, their King was stupid, delayed military funds and resources, which made the soldiers¡¯ conditions unbearable and miserable. Once the war started again, even if he has great skills, he fears that it will be difficult to turn the tide.


    .


    His blurred vision of the dune eventually stopped at that site where countless bones were buried because of the war. His heart bursts with grieves. As a General, he can strategise to achieve the greatest victory, but he will not be able to protect all of his soldiers. There was a quote, ¡°A General¡¯s triumph is over millions of bones¡±. Probably soon,he will be one underneath these sand. Only he does not know what will happen to the people of his country and what fate they will face.


    .


    He took out the black bamboo flute and placed it across his lips. The heartfelt thousands of emotions, this time,he could only express in music as the heartrending melody drifted by the wind waft over a few miles away. A young man riding high on a stallion, covered in furs and jade, extraordinary momentum and handsome looking that made others not daring to glance at intently. After listening to the heartbroken distant song, his face changed into a hint of cold smile.


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 CH 2

    Inside a small tent, the aroma of meat had spread in every corner. Ashabu-shabu dish was presented exquisitely and delicately on the table; a pot with few charcoals burned brightly next to it. Although it was blustery outside, the tent felt like spring time, very warm.


    .


    Beside the table, two people were seated. One was the young man, who had heard the song in the desert, and the other was a stunning beauty; eyebrows shaped like mountain, eyes were like autumn water in spring, attitude seemed splendid and elegant temperament, gestures appeared to be thousands of untold, pleasant styles.


    .


    ¡°Master, the intelligence was just received. I¡¯m not sure if it is any use?¡± The beautiful woman smiled openly, like pearl sound, while pouring wine colour of amber nectar into his glass.


    .


    This young man was none other than Wan Yan Xu, the King of Kim Liao Kingdom. When he saw his favourite confidant maidservant asked, he gave an enigmatic smile. He took a piece of meat from the pot and placed it into his mouth, chewed slowly and long before opening his mouth, ¡°Zi Nong, what news did you gain?¡±


    .


    Zi Nong respectfully replied to the query, ¡°Your servant saw Su Yi General secretly. Alas, he was very handsome and fine-featured.It is unbelievable that he¡¯s the same Invincible General who has won many battles.¡± She immediately chuckled.


    .


    Wan Yan Xu expressionless, lightly laughed, ¡°Really? Then you¡¯re more fortunate than me. I have not seen him once, but just overheard a song he¡¯d played.¡±


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    Zi Nong¡¯s eyes widened then arisen,speechless and said, ¡°What? He¡¯d played a song? Your servant heard rumours that although he is a General, he was also proficient in poetry and painting. It was actually true? How could Kim Liao¡¯s men be beaten in battles by such a scholar¡¯s hands?¡±


    .


    Wan Yan Xu eyes¡¯ light coldly flashed, tone was chilly, ¡°This man is a great accomplisher in both civil and military field. Indeed, three years ago, the last battle between us, I¡¯d violated Father¡¯s order and disguised into the enemy¡¯s army. I¡¯d witnessed his strategic plan. Hence, a few days later, Kim Liao¡¯s army had fallen apart. Alas, unfortunately,I was inexperienced at the time that Father did not listen to my advice.If not, we would not have lost in that field. Consequently, Father died in the end with much regret.¡± When he just finished, a sound ¡° pop¡± echoes.The cup in his palm had been crushed.


    .


    Instantly, the wine¡¯s aroma was spreading. His eyes glazed with coldness, whispered and teeth grinded, ¡°If this avenge is not done, I vow not to be a man.¡±


    .


    Zi Nong quickly replaced his glass, smiled and said, ¡°Master, there is no need to be impatient. Kim Liao today is greater than three years ago.Until the army arrive, do you not believe you¡¯ll have your revenge?¡± Then she once again poured the wine into Wan Yan Xu¡¯s cup. When she saw him slowly calmed down, finally felt relieved.


    .


    The sand covered misty dew at the dawn of day. A few men rushed on horseback to arrive where Wan Yan Xu had camped last night. Su Yi, who led the party, saw tents neatly piled on the ground, but there was no one around, and a big flag was deeply ruffled, containing four characters, ¡°This is our ground again.¡±


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    Su Yi stared at those words for a long time, suddenly reined his horse around, coldly spoke, ¡°We have arrived too late. Wan Yan Xu is already gone.¡±


    .


    Lieutenant Qin approached the flag, raised his voice, ¡°General, it seems they had left in a hurry and forgot the banner.¡±


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    Su Yi sighed and said, ¡°They did not in such a hurry leave the flag behind.Do you not understand yet? This flag is actually a war declaration message. Alas, Wan Yan Xu, Wan YanXu.This man¡¯s courage, indeed, is incomparable to anyone. Even as the enemy, I could not help but admit that he is indeed a wise Emperor. Kim Liao has such sovereign, I¡¯m afraid ¡­¡­¡± the rest of the sentence was not spoken since he could not bear to say them, because he did not dare to think it was an outcome.


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    ¡°Heralded to our forces, stepping up their training, tight in security, if I do not guess wrongly, there will be imminent battle soon.¡± His sword shaped eyebrows knitted together, Su Yi commanded, then turned to Qin to ask, ¡°The wages and food from the capital has not arrived yet?¡±


    .


    The Lieutenant shook his head, gave a worried look. Su Yi sighed, looked up at the sky, thoughtful, ¡®The God has done me no harm, but let my fate be ended by the benighted King and those greedy ministers?¡¯


    .


    Inside the brightly lit General Camp, Wan Yan Xu was attentively studying a map.Zi Nong brought a trace of snack and tea as she pulled the curtain aside to enter, softly advised, ¡°Master, it is already late in the night. Pleading take a rest sire. The imminent war is soon, so keeping in a good spirit is the most important thing.¡±


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    Wan Yan Xu¡¯s vision was still on the map, in a deep voice said, ¡°You go to sleep. I really cannot sleep.For these three years, my thoughts have always been on this coming war.If it is a fight, I¡¯ll certainly not permit Su Yi to respite.¡±


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    Zi Nong said, ¡°Master¡¯s aspiration, how can your servant not know, but this war, Master had intimate knowledge and careful planning, why ¡­¡­¡± Her sentence was not finished but Wan Yan Xu sternly said ¡°As a general, there is no such thing as ¡°intimate knowledge and careful planning¡±. The battlefield is always changing. Even all the escape routes have to be considered. Precisely because of this advantage that Su Yi has always been victorious.Thoselessons are there. Are we going to continue repeating them?¡± When he finished, he then picked up his cup and took a sip. Suddenly, there came echoes of intermittent sound outside.


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    Wan Yan Xu stood up and stretched.Zi Nong followed, doubtful and asked, ¡°That Su Yi is still in the mood to play the flute at this time?¡±


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    Wan Yan Xu shook his head and said, ¡°It cannot be him. In this critical juncture, it is very imperative that the army spirit is not to be falling apart. He¡¯ll never play this nostalgic tone. In addition, this flute sounds like extreme sorrow and great despair.¡± He pondered for a moment, suddenly smiled and said, ¡°Qi King is stupid. It seems that Qi soldiers¡¯ spirits are low, ha ha ha. Su Yi, I very much would like to see how you¡¯ll fight tomorrow.¡±


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    After that, in a low voice, he commanded Zi Nong, ¡°Heralds to all Generals. Tomorrow on the battlefield, align the soldiers properly. If possible, capture the enemies but do not slaughter them. I have uses for the prisoners at some point later.¡±

 CH 3

    The afternoon sun hung over the brutal battlefield; the light arrays were pierced through the rolling sand like a shrouded crestfallen shield. From time to time, there were a few flowers of blood accompanied with sand flying into the air. The sand was stained with blood from the earlier battle, as a young man¡¯s body was partially uncovered beneath the sand with an arm that was terribly mutilated. This is cruelty of war and there can be no words to describe it.


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    Additionally, what was more devastating about this great battle¡¯s outcome: the country¡¯s reputation, the monarch¡¯s ambitions and the peace of a nation. Since the stakes are high, whether it is Qi or Kim Liao, they have to do their best because they cannot afford to lose.


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    Wan Yan Xu and Su Yi, the highest ranking Generals for each side, were against each other at the centre of the battlefield. Both parties were heavily sweating so the body armours appeared to be increasingly heavier. Wan Yan Xu suddenly quietly said, ¡°The outcome has been fixed, why are you still making unnecessary struggles? If you were to surrender, I¡¯ll reward you with wealth and titles. Qi ¡®s King and greedy Ministers, are they really worthy of your sacrifice?¡±


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    Su Yi did not reply. He knew Wan Yan Xu was correct that the outcome has already been determined, whether it was the army or himself. Currently, Wan Yan Xu has strengths to speak but for him, he could not utter a word. If he did so, whatever power he has, would undoubtedly be gone.


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    Wan Yan Xu¡¯s eyes were flashed with chilliness, coldly said: ¡°You¡¯re so arrogant, not even caring to reply.¡± In his resentment, with a third force of the strength, he¡¯d willed the long spear and it powered like the dragon diving into the sea or the tiger jumping down the mountain. Su Yi was already struggling to fight, how could he withstand the attack, and for an instance, he was inattentive. His shoulder was injured by an arrowshot and heavily bleeding, which have stained the body armour; his eyes were vertigo and mouth gave a hint of bleak smile. Su Yi was staggering on the horse before his body was completely and gently captive by Wan Yan Xu. The little strength he had, have gathered in his fist and ready to attack the opponent as the man face came closer. Unfortunately, the enemy realised his intention and took hold of his neck.At once, he completely fainted.


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    When he woke up again, the heaven was already filled with stars and speckled of very pale light from a crescent, cold moon. Although there was no wind, it was bitterly cold. Su Yi found that his body sweat had formed a layer of thin ice and seemed to erode the skin. The armour he had own for many years was nowhere in sight, presumably took as a trophy by the enemy for his captivity. The squeaky sound of the prisoner wagon travelled in the night was particularly harsh to the ears.


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    A woman¡¯s voice suddenly rang out: ¡°The camp site is built. The King ordered me to take Su General to his tent.¡± In the darkness of the night, a beautiful face slowly revealed. She saw that he has awakened and could not help smiling.The starry moonlight was at this moment deemed under her elegance.


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    Wan Yan Xu¡¯s tent was cosy and warm,but could not melt the iciness in his eyes. When Su Yi was in his sight, his frightening face twisted with a cruel smile, and coldly said: ¡°Su General, do you know how long I¡¯ve been waiting for this day? Three years, one month and five days.Thanks to God¡¯s mercy and with Qi¡¯s Ministers¡¯ helps, they have made my lifelong wish easily fulfilled.¡±


    .


    Su Yi pursed his thin lips and his eyes were steadfast on Wan Yan Xu. He was surprised to find the other man picked up the roasted lamb¡¯s leg from a dish on the table and placed it before him, taunted and laughed: ¡°Are you hungry? I was surprised at how odd the Invincible General was during our combats. It was until I interrogated your Lieutenant that I¡¯ve discovered the reason, tsk tsk, such a pity. Ah, a famous general, starving without food and had to fight on the battlefield. If this news is spread out, none will believe, ha ha ha.¡± His maniac laughter did not move Su Yi as he was only coldly staring back at the other man.


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    Wan Yan Xu¡¯s laughter was steeply broken for Su Yi¡¯s silence has irritated him, as if he was a clown on a stage and acting in a meaningless one-man show. He grabbed Su Yi¡¯s collar, coldly said:  ¡°I am??asking you once more, are you going to surrender or not?¡±


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    Su Yi finally replied and the sound was very crisp, but mellow: ¡°No surrender.¡±


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    Wan Yan Xu suddenly let go, sneered for a moment: ¡°Why? I¡¯ve already said, is such a monarchy worthy of your sacrifice?¡±


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    Su Yi said each word distinctly: ¡°My life is only sold for the Qi people.¡± His tone was resolute and ringing with mettle.


    .


    Wan Yan Xu¡¯s eyes seemed to be lit up like a ball of fire. Su Yi¡¯s stature was clearly smaller than his, but currently, it was as if he has become much taller than him. This impression made ??him even angrier, and what was more intolerable was the man¡¯s calm manners, as if he was not the prisoner but vice versa.


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    He gripped Su Yi¡¯s shoulder wound. Wan Yan Xu was satisfied when he saw the other man bit his lip. His frantically wicked eyes was staring and grunting slowly: ¡°Su Yi, you probably do not know this. I have always been ruthless with my enemy, especially you, I¡¯ll have no mercy, and do you know how much pleasure it is when I thought of torturing you to cry out for mercy? Since you won¡¯t surrender, prepare to welcome whatever means I¡¯ll cast upon you. Do not attempt to suicide as a martyr, for tens of thousands of soldiers¡¯ lives are depending on you, and all of them are in my hands. If you decided otherwise, I¡¯ll ensure the tortures that are supposed to be imposed on you be implemented double on them, then kill each one so no one will be spared.¡±

 CH 4

    Even a few days later, Su Yi still could not forget that fanatic laughter and his eyes were filled with metamorphosis of bloodlust for Wan Yan Xu. Even if he disregarded life and death and calmly facing all of the possible tortures, he was still scared of Wan Yan Xu¡¯s hatred.


    .


    The weather of the desert is fickle.During daytime, it was sunny and extremely hot, and at night, the sand and stone were shifting and very cold. Su Yi did not know how many days he had spent in this weather.Whenever he fainted, Wan Yan Xu would bring him into the warmth of the tent, and when he woke up, the tortures began.


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    The only thing that Su Yi was pleased with was that his soldiers did not undergo this inhuman treatment. Wan Yan Xu was always true to what he said.As long as he was willing to endure, then his soldiers will not be tortured. The most tragic he felt was, for the previous two months, his soldiers were starved; but nowadays, they were fully fed by the enemy behind a prison. His heart wept uncontrollably whenever he thought about it.


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    A pretty figure came within his sight; Zi Nong could not bear to look at the man, whose hands were tied, wrists were already bloodied and dripping on a thick layer of white sand, and the ground already stained with many large and small drops of blood. The shoulder wound has been swelling and festering.


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    Wan Yan Xu deliberately did not give him any medical treatment.He would pour salty water over them a few times daily. Though it was tortured, it was also affective in anti-inflammatory; otherwise the wound would have festered a long time ago to the bone.


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    ¡°No, this wound can no longer be left untreated.¡± Zi Nong whispered and turned to Su Yi¡¯s indifferent face: ¡°Su General, is it impossible for you to surrender? Truthfully, there is no escape route; the King has sent Generals to attack Qi. The land is great, but without you defending, how many days will it take before its fall? In fact, the King is vicious to you but he is very caring for his officials; as long as you surrender, he will treat you with the same courtesy. He often praised you of your talent. You do not have to be worried about trust and be of use to him. My King is very good at acknowledging other¡¯s ability; if he did not want you, then on that battlefield, you would have been killed. Why would he use your soldiers¡¯ lives to blackmail, and tortures to force you into submission?¡±


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    Su Yi looked at the beauty before him and suddenly gave a slight chuckle: ¡°No wonder Wan Yan Xu favoured you. It was probably because of your innocence. Your King tortured me to vent on how Kim Liao was defeated countless times by my hands. He forced me to surrender just to disgrace me. The thought of watching an enemy fell down at his feet and professed as his servant will give him pleasure. Kim Liao¡¯s soldiers have always been aggressive. Your King is a rare talented man. Even if I have enough military resources, I could not guarantee of my winning in this war. Why should he deliberately need to recruit me?¡± When Su Yi was facing this simple and beautiful girl, he found it¡¯s easier to be opened about his thoughts than with the vicious Wan Yan Xu.


    .


    Zi Nong was speechless. She looked at his worried eyes and could not resist and said: ¡°Su General, what are you worried about? Are you worried for the Qi people?¡± Those words indeed stabbed into Su Yi¡¯s heart, the images of people died under the iron heel of Kim Liao, his tears almost shed and his mind was filled with deep remorse.


    .


    Zi Nong patted his shoulder and comforted him: ¡°Do not worry, Su General, the King had ordered; no soldier is to take advantage of the occasion when breaking into a city, to burn and loot the people. He said that sooner or later these are all going to belong to Kim Liao. Although your people will taste the pain of conquest, but their lives and properties would not suffer too much damage. Currently, the one suffering the most is, in fact, you. How long has it been since you last drink water? Your lips are cracked dry with several lines.¡±


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    Su Yi may have hatred for Wan Yan Xu, but also respected the man. If Qi can have such a monarch, he would never worry about the country¡¯s bustling prosperity and lasting of the kingdom. Suddenly the carriage stopped. Then Su Yi realised that his naked legs were souring pains and has already gone numb.


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    Zi Nong looked back and suddenly gave a cry of joy. She got up and shouted: ¡°Zi Liu sister.¡± She quickly ran over and hugged the incoming woman.


    .


    The distance between them was too far and the sunlight was strong so Su Yi could not see the woman¡¯s face, as she and Zi Nong have already entered Wan Yan Xu¡¯s carriage; but a moment later, a guard came to him and grumpily said: ¡°The King ordered to see you.¡± When he finished, his hand grabbed on the rope that tied Su Yi¡¯s wrists. Su Yi staggered but the guard did not care and continued to stride forward.


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    When he came inside the car, Wan Yan Xu was comfortably sipping wine; Wan Yan Xu slowly sat up when he saw Su Yi entered. His face giving a polished smile and shook his head, then chuckled: ¡°What a pity, ah, a dignified Invincible General to become this emaciated.¡± When he finished, he grabbed hold on his long, sandy hairs and sighed: ¡°Unfortunately for such a beautiful hair.¡±


    .


    Su Yi nonchalantly stared at him and unmoved. It was indeed accurate and said whenever seeing him, he¡¯ll get chills. Wan Yan Xu was lying down again and lazily said: ¡°Zi Liu, I¡¯d deliberately call you here not in order to fool around. You are to look at his injury and see what you can do about them.¡±


    .

 CH 5

    The woman called Zi Liu was not as beautiful as Zi Nong, but had a heroic vitality posture. She turned to have a quick look after she heard the order. Her face showed surprises and said: ¡°Master, the wound has been festering a little. We must remove the dead flesh before properly bandaging the wound. Otherwise, once it festered to the bone and with the desert, hot weather, even the god Da Luo Jin Xian cannot save him.¡±


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    Wan Yan Xu pretended to be amazed and eyes widen, speechless and said:  ¡°This serious, ah, then what are you waiting for? Quickly heal Su General for such talented man is to be neglected, would I not be distressed.¡±


    .


    Zi Liu hastily ordered her assistant to get the medicine cabinet and opened the box, then took a bottle of anaesthetic. She was about to give the medicine, but Wan Yan Xu stopped her and laughed: ¡°You¡¯re underestimating Su General. Who do you thinks he is? Long ago, when HuaTuo helped Guan Yu cure his poison, the man could talk and laugh freely. Su General¡¯s body is like a steel frame, thus, it must be better than Guan Yu. It is a good time that I can witness this.¡±


    .


    Zi Liu immediately understood Wan Yan Xu¡¯s intention after her master¡¯s outburst. She hesitated then placed the anaesthetic back into the box. She took a sharp knife out as it flashed coldly and lit a candle. She was heating the blade over the candle, moved it back and forth a few times and whispered: ¡°Su General, although this is a small surgery, it will be really painful. You must endure a bit.¡± She looked back at Wan Yan Xu and a few guards and saw that their faces were excited. She sighed, knew that these people have defeated Su Yi and truly hated him.How could there be compassion?Zi Nong was fearful so she had already slipped out of the carriage.


    .


    When the tip of the knife cut into the flesh, blood immediately poured out. When it cut deeper, only a slight sound of the blade and flesh are grinding as more blood surged out without stopping. Su Yi still looked calm as if he hadnot budged, and only droplet of sweats were rolling down his face; and his clenched fists showed a glimpse of his agony in this moment.


    .


    Wan Yan Xu¡¯s excited expression gradually disappeared and the guards¡¯ joyful expressions also gradually converted into admiration. Zi Liu¡¯s hand began to tremble, then she took a deep breath and looked at Su Yi. She finally ended the cruelty. The knife quickly slashed and instantly cut out a chunk of rotten flesh; vaguely beneath the blood, the bone was revealed, which held more attention to the people¡¯s eyes.


    .


    Su Yi finally was unable to withstand the pain as his body swayed and passed out on the soft wolf fur mattress. Zi Liu quickly took a clean soft cotton cloth and carefully bandaged him. The guards were already whispering and talking about Su Yi with full admiration. Zi Liu knew Kim Liao folks¡¯ feelings are swift and fierce, but they mostly admired hero Su Yi¡¯s endurance which clearly impressed them. When she looked back at her master and saw his ashen face, his eyes were staring at Su Yi¡¯s pale face, suddenly turned his head away and heavily grunted.


    .


    Zi Liu said: ¡°Master, the wound had been carefully bandaged, but it would not be suitable to be under the sun. Please give him rest for two days. We¡¯re approaching Kim Liao so revenge could wait for another day.¡±


    .


    Wan Yan Xu was indifferent and said: ¡°Just as you has recommended, lock him up in a prison in the carriage behind.¡±


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    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª-


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    ¡®In the end, still fainted,¡¯ Su Yi was helplessly thinking. ¡®If possible, I would not want to use this method to make Wan Yan Xu look weak,¡¯ he felt since he has been captured, he had been collapsing again and again, ¡®instead of dignified manner, he was acting like a pathetic woman. How hateful. Nevertheless, I ultimately am a human. There are always limitations on a physical body. Even if I mentally want to,I cannot control it.¡¯


    .


    Inside the carriage, there were about a dozen women who watched over Su Yi withcuriosity.They are labourers for the army such as cooking and washing. Su Yi¡¯s superior appearance and bearing seemed to brighten the place and could not stop others from paying attention to him. He was even more embarrassed of these northern women¡¯s behaviour as they do not have the same etiquette education, even forthrightly spoken about him like he was not there. If it is possible, he would rather not be here even if he had to be exposed under the sun. If Wan Yan Xu knew of such reaction, presumably, he would be very astonished. The enemy could not conquer him with brutal tortures, but the words of these women have made him very restless.


    .


    Finally it was two days later, Su Yi suddenly found that the women were no longer talking about him, and their faces were joyfully smiling, often looking outside. Then his heart sank; a faint hint of despair ached in his heart and he knew that they have arrived in Kim Liao. His own life, whether it is long or short, would be the end here (in a foreign land).


    .


    Zi Liu and Zi Nong suddenly went inside and the women quickly scattered away to avoidthem.Zi Liu looked at Su Yi¡¯s wounds and chuckled: ¡°It¡¯s probably alright; it seems to have produced new muscles.¡± She looked solemnly at Su Yi¡¯s face, lowered her voice and said: ¡°General, we have arrived in Liao Kim capital.Do you know what path waits for you? Are you as determined as before and outright, refused to bow?¡±


    .


    Su Yi suddenly gave a faint laugh: ¡°Thank you lady, I¡¯d intended never to change my mind.¡±


    .


    Zi Liu sighed, shook her head and said: ¡°General¡¯s integrity, Zi Liu truly admired. Then as old phrase goes,¡®have different directions thus, will be in disagreement¡¯, Zi Liu have nothing more to say. For the road ahead, hopefully General will take care.¡± When she finished, she took Zi Nong, who did not bear to accept this, and without looking back, they went out

 CH 6

    Kim Liao¡¯s death row prison has always been located in the capital. Not only was it heavily guarded, but there were also masters of martial arts secretly patrolling. Su Yi did not understand at first why such forces were necessary at a death row prison. In Qi, when a prisoner was sentenced to death, the person seemed to become more docile because they have lost all hope. Thus, it was much easier to oversee them than other inmates. Whilst Liao Kim is different, he discovered that death row inmates tried their best to escape; even when the guillotine is happening the next day, they would contemplate on how to jailbreak the night before. What was more surprising was that Wan Yan Xu did not try to stop the attempt or squash the inmates of this idea, but just happily strengthen the defence of the prison.


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu¡¯s name has been lingering on Su Yi¡¯s mind for the last few days. As a General, he is a good one and as a King, he is more daunting. Su Yi had little doubt on why Kim Liao only took three years to recover. A nation that never gave up hope hence, there was nothing that can prevent its growing power. Perhaps the mark of his defeat was when Wan Yan Xu ascended the throne three years ago.


    .


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    He could hear the heavy door opening and two jailers bravely went into his cell. One of them stepped forward and violently torn apart Su Yi¡¯s shoulder garment off, looked at the wound, then sneered: ¡°Su General, your wound is better. His Majesty is asking again: will you surrender or not?¡±


    .


    .


    Su Yi smoothes his clothes and coldly said: ¡°My decision has been made. Wan Yan Xu already knows so there¡¯s no need to ask diligently.¡±


    .


    .


    Another jailer snorted and said: ¡°If so, then it is such a pity.¡± His eyes fiercely stared and took Su Yi¡¯s heavy flailing chain, then said loudly: ¡°Do you know what is waiting for you now?¡±


    .


    .


    Su Yi said nonchalantly: ¡°Execute or guillotine, do as you wish.¡± When he finished and calmly stepped out, he heard the jailer spat with disdain and said: ¡°Yeah right. Just wait for grave torture then surrender. Like the previous La Guguo De¡¯s General years ago, who was just like you, but after that¡­¡­¡±Before his sentence was completed, the other jailer interrupted: ¡°Shut up, do you want to die? He is now a General who led the army to fight Qi. The King is extremely confident in him. Be careful. That man¡¯s servants can hear you.¡±


    .


    .


    Su Yi sighed. He heard of Yu Cang¡¯s famous surrender. What else is there to say? Those who know the time was right are astute people. Wan Yan Xu was really a good master. Each person¡¯s ideal is different. For him, it was impossible.


    .


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    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¨C


    .


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    The study room was quiet and filled with light lily aroma. Wan Yan Xu was holding a history book, leisurely turning over the pages. Zi Nong came in but he did not look up. His mouth form a provocative smile, then casually asked: ¡°So? Has Su Yi surrendered?¡±


    .


    .


    Zi Nong did not dare to breathe aloud, sneakily peeked at his face, whispered and said: ¡°No, not yet.¡±


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu sat upright, his eyes shot at Zi Nong and before long, he slightly relaxed. He leaned back at his royal seat and regained his usual laid-back composure, then said: ¡°Really? He has not surrendered yet? I remembered it only took three days for Yu Cang. I never expected Su Yi to have such endurance. I¡¯d like to see whether his bones are made ??of iron.¡±


    .


    .


    Zi Nong heart¡¯s leapt and quickly said: ¡°Master, those words are inaccurate. Yu General was truly subservient to master. If it¡¯s only torture, I fear that he may not be willing to surrender so fast.¡±


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu revealed a hint of smile at his servant, then suddenly said: ¡°Isn¡¯t that right? My thought was clearly expressed, but what Zi Nong said, why not go enlighten him about it? Heralds my command, I¡¯ll go to death row prison.¡±


    .


    .


    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¨C


    .


    .


    Inside the torture chamber was eerie. The brutal burly torturers were severely torturing Su Yi; they were trying to force him to yield. When they heard the King arrived, their usual aggressiveness suddenly was quivering in fear. Wan Yan Xu was known for his equally rewarding and severe punishment. It seemed that five days had passed and his frail looking enemy had yet to be weakened. They were ashamed of themselves, but have no idea what to do to make their ruthless King satisfied? If he is displeased, then their lives will be forfeited. This thought made their admiration for Su Yi turned into resentment.


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu was surrounded by the crowd at the torture chamber¡¯s door. He was cloaked with a white fur coat, and his regal was radiant through the beautiful royal robe, allowing others to see his ethereal appearance like sacred jade which looked outstanding.


    .


    .


    Su Yi managed to raise his head and looked at him. He saw his familiar mouth with a pleasant, curvy smile, though his chilly eyes were gazing over the crowd. His heart trembled in shock. This man was duplicity. Although ingenious, he was not a magnanimous gentleman. The man would never easily let him go, even if he was calmly accepting martyrdom. When he thought of this, Wan Yan Xu appeared before him, suddenly reached out and lifted his chin. His tone was gentle and said: ¡°Su General, I never thought you would be this stubborn.¡± Although his tone was soft, yet, his whole movement revealed that of contempt. Su Yi quietly looked at him, not saying a word. The cell was suddenly very quiet that if a pin drops, it could be heard.

 CH 7

    Wan Yan Xu had already seen his nonchalant face so he did not feel irritated this time. His gaze swept over the blood that has spilled from countless wounds at the top of the head down to the toes. Su Yi¡¯s body were bruised all over and not an inch of the skin was unharmed. He nodded with satisfaction, turned around to the jailer and said: ¡°I¡¯d thought you were being lazy. It seems I¡¯ve been unjust by thinking so. However, this simply is not the way. What will happen if he dies before surrendering?¡±


    .


    .


    The Head Jailer stepped forward and respectfully said: ¡°Master, we did not dare to break bones. These are only skin wounds, and they do look terrifying and also really painful. However, this prisoner is a man and in good health. Master doesn¡¯t have to worry that he¡¯ll die from these wounds.¡±


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu nodded, smiled and said: ¡°This is good.¡±


    .


    .


    He turned back to face Su Yi. He saw that the arrowshot shoulder wound was already healed from the torn garment, but a scar was visible as the size of a coin. He looked at Su Yi¡¯s pale complexion, suddenly held out his hand and slowly caressed the scar and said softly: ¡°You¡¯re still being stubborn, why even bother? Does it still hurt here?¡±


    .


    .


    Su Yi¡¯s body could not help but shivered, though it was clear that Wan Yan Xu was playing game by being persuasive in return for his gratitude. There was no hidden, wicked motive behind the gesture, but he still could not accept this close, intimate action. He instantly reacted by turning his head back and sideways. His thin lips growled with anger and disgust to remind that the enemy was standing before him.


    .


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    Wan Yan Xu was stunned and puzzled over the reaction. Then he saw a slender, white neck under untidy hair, which was the only place without injury. Under the pearly earlobe, he saw it quickly flushed. Although the sight was briefly seen, it has radiated an allure. He came to his senses and noted that Su Yi is Qi¡¯s people, who were living in the south, and highly valued Confucianism. His action would be considered as a great honour if it was placed upon his soldiers (people), who would¡¯ve felt grateful for such merciful act; but in the eyes of this man, it may have became something of a different sort.


    .


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    On this very thought, he quickly took his hand off, smiled and said: ¡°Su General is truly stubborn. If it is time that you want, I¡¯ll wait for you.¡± He turned to leave when Su Yi suddenly said: ¡°I¡¯ve ??told you. Su Yi¡¯s lives belong to Qi¡¯s people. You don¡¯t have to wait in vain.¡±


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu went outside without turning his head, gently smiled and said: ¡°If it¡¯s so, then I¡¯ve given a target for the jailers to have a good practice. You¡¯re in good health, then might as well see how you¡¯ll tolerate under a hundred and eighty types of torture.¡± After he had spoken, he strolled off. The jailers who were kneeling down finally dared to breathe again.


    .


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    ¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª¡ª


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    In the blink of an eye, ten days have passed. Wan Yan Xu still heard no report of Su Yi¡¯s surrender. His heart became more and more impatient. He is a very ruthless man and extremely intelligent. He treated those he valued with enticements and penalties. Yu Cang¡¯s surrender was by this extraordinary means. Although with Su Yi, there was hatred and several times, he tried to entice Su Yi to surrender, but the man seemed blind to them. So then his thoughts turned toward tortures.


    .


    .


    In truth, his wish for Su Yi to surrender for the keen use of a talented man was actually very little; mostly it was out of being to be able to dominate over a man who had repeatedly defeated Kim Liao. The man¡¯s surrender would be his proudest achievement. Nevertheless, when he saw Su Yi enduring over tortures, it only made ??him troubled and his heart gradually felt respect for the man.


    .


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    His bright eyes slightly looked up; the pot of orchids in bloom on the window was spotted by his eyes. This flowerpot was given by Yu Cang, but he did not like orchids. He felt the flower was too fragile and took too much time to nurture. Since it was given by a good subject, he chose not to discard it, but left it on the window in the Royal Office. It was surprising that the flower plant has survived over a winter. Instead of dying, it has bloomed. He took a closer look and saw that the flower was about the size of a small tea cup. The white petals have a touch of pink, giving it a feeling of an unobtrusive elegance.


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    Wan Yan Xu stood up and went over to the flowerpot, carefully stroked the silky petals. He felt the smoothness and delicacy of it. Somehow, the feeling suddenly reminded him of the sight on the top of Su Yi¡¯s shoulder. His heart suddenly stirred, though the scar on the shoulder cannot be compared to these petals, but that neck was delicate like these white petals. Thereby, his thought shifted on to the fact that Su Yi has yet to surrender. Avery self-righteous man, indeed, is not inferior to the rare orchids. His wandering thoughts were always coming back to Su Yi. Since he could not changed them and was too lazy to care, he commanded Zi Nong to come serve him in changing clothes, and then the two of them, master and servant, went straight to the death row prison.


    .


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    In this moment, the jailers had done the tortures for the day; they led them carefully into their prison cells, and saw Su Yi curled up on the floor. The long, messy black hair covered his face, though they can see from the figure that he had lost a lot of weight. The clothes have been torn apart by dozens of weapons that were used for torturing. The ragged pieces revealed deep bruises or red, swollen of scars and some visible parts of white skin looks undamaged, but with a closer look there, it was covered with a few small marks that simply cannot be seen by the naked eyes.


    .


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    Zi Nong¡¯s heart was full of pain and could not bear to look as she quickly turned her head away. She was shocked to see her master¡¯s eyes firmly fixed on that emaciated body. The eyes were like a fire that¡¯s about to erupt.

 CH 8

    Zi Nong, at a young age, has been living in the palace and also on several occasions, with Wan Yan Xu, she has camped with the soldiers hence, accustomed to seeing those stares. She was, for a moment, surprised, looked back at Su Yi whose body was like a broken rag doll, ¡®how could it possibly evoke a desire inside of Wan Yan Xu. Master was not in favour of a male partner, so why were his eyes like that? Maybe I¡¯d guessed wrong.¡¯ She did not understand why would Wan Yan Xu lusted for a man, and a hot-blooded man like Su Yi, a body covered with blood to seduce his carnal needs.


    .


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    Wan Yan Xu tried to control himself, but suddenly Su Yi looked up. As the four eyes locked, the man¡¯s unyielding has remained in domitable. The hatred in his heart was urging to burst out to take control, and he almost instantly wants to enter the cell, to place the other man¡¯s body beneath him, to see how stubborn the man will last till the end. His fists clenched and with great difficulty repressed his desires. He turned angrily away and ordered Zi Nong: ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Then he left without looking back. Su Yi was surprised and wondered what bee is in his bonnet.


    .


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    Wan Yan Xu did not like a male partner. Although homosexuality was popular in Qi and Kim Liao in this era, which he did not persecute but did not care for it either. Nevertheless, the sudden situation was fated coincidence; the thought of Su Yi¡¯s tortured body was desirable made him shocked and angrier for such reaction. He thought that maybe the situation had arisen because he was too busy with country affairs and had not been spending times with his concubines. Therefore, when he returned to the palace, he went to his most favourite De Yinji¡¯s chamber.


    .


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    De Yinji and her maidservant were playing chess for fun so upon heard the King¡¯s arrival, she hastened to go freshen up, but Wan Yan Xu pulled her back. Since she was the King¡¯s favourite concubine and a clever woman, she quickly saw the desire in Wan Yan Xu¡¯s eyes and was quite clear of his needs. She hastily withdrew her servants and seduced by using endless gentle words with him, and embraced Wan Yan Xu as she led him inside her chamber.


    .


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    Normally, De Yinji¡¯s behaviour would be enough to make Wan Yan Xu pleased. However, today for some unknown reason, when he looked at the beautiful face and the grin smiled, he felt even more depressed. Su Yi¡¯s delicate face suddenly appeared in his mind. The man¡¯s face may not be vividly beautiful like the face before him and always surrounded with a gush of cold, haughty air. His face was arrogant like Ochna Integerrima and yet, elegant like an orchid. He has very thin lips, and those lips have been refusing to emit any sounds so easily, but tightly pursed; the pain and its groaning was held by his stubbornness behind the lips, reminisced others to feel hate and empathize with him.


    .


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    He was deep in thought that he did not know when De Yinji had removed his coat, and she left only a red undergarment, exposed half of pale as snow body, which arouses other¡¯s reveries. She was breathing breathlessly and smiling charmingly, said: ¡°Your Majesty was busy these days and did not bother that your servant is missing you.¡± When she finished, she was laying on Wan Yan Xu¡¯s arms, really seductive and indescribably attractive.


    .


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    Wan Yan Xu at this time did not feel the slightest desire for her, especially upon hearing that sentence. What he most currently needed is to conquer, and to conquer a wilful man will ensure his satisfaction. How could De Yinji¡¯s yielding body possibly meet his needs? He pushed the body coldly away, draped his coat on again then he saw the stunned eyes thus, only casually coaxed and said: ¡°I?? suddenly remembered some important businesses to take care of. You can continue playing. I saw that the last time you were interested in jade bracelets. Tonight, I¡¯ll order Xiao Shunzi to give it to you.¡±He finished off quickly, and left a rejoicing De Yinji, who kept thanking him.


    .


    .


    Zi Nong thought that when her Master entered the concubine¡¯s chamber, he would not leave there until half a day later, so she looked for Zi Nan to have a chat with. When Wan Yan Xu could not find her, he simply called Zi Liu over and said: ¡°You¡¯ll go to death row prison and bring Su Yi here; I want to personally question him.¡±


    .


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    Zi Liu wondered why the man should be interrogating though he is an enemy, but kept her lips tight. Nevertheless, with the look of her Master¡¯s face with stiff tendency, she did not dare ask. She quickly went to death row prison and had a few jailers brought Su Yi over and hastily went back to the palace. Wan Yan Xu then ordered everyone out. She was puzzled and quickly queried: ¡°Your Majesty, this is not good. Su Yi is good at martial arts, if you get hurt¡­¡­¡±before she finished, Wan Yan Xu sneered: ¡°If he is this skilful, I would know. Now get out. My rules, you still have not yet understood?¡±


    .


    ,


    Zi Liu knew he has always been uncompromising, too afraid to counsel and dejectedly went out. She quickly searched for ZiNong and Zi Nan to lash out: ¡°You came here to enjoy yourself, instead of waiting on Master.¡±


    .


    .


    Zi Nong giggled and laughed: ¡°Master is doing that thing which does not require my attendant, so why should I not steal a moment of laziness? At this moment, he must be going crazy with De Yinji?¡±


    .


    .


    Zi Liu was surprised and said: ¡°What folly are you on about? The King is simply not with her Ladyship. I was working on medication when he ordered me to go and take Su General to the palace, and said that he will interrogate the man. Even I was not allowed to remain there.¡±Before she finished, she saw Zi Nong¡¯s eyes widen as big as a bell. Zi Nan, who has always been composed, even panicked and hastily asked: ¡°Zi Nong, do you know what the King¡¯s intention is? Quickly tell me.¡±


    .


    .


    Zi Nong was impatient and said: ¡°What else to say? If we¡¯re not leaving now, it will be too late.¡±She stood up to leave. Zi Nan and Zi Liu glanced at each other, was about to follow her outside as well, but was surprised to find her slumped down, depressed and said: ¡°Well, what can I do even if I¡¯m going? Oh, the poor Su General¡­¡­Well ¡­¡­ what happened to the King? He had not cared for those things before.¡±


    .

 CH 9

    Zi Nan and Zi Liu were anxious to the point that they pinched and urged her: ¡°What¡¯s going on, you should tell us something at least?¡± Zi Nong then retold them the scene in the death row prison, and finally made a given up gesture said: ¡°What do you think, how we should approach this?¡±


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    The trio and Zi Yan, who is currently fighting in Qi with Yu Cang, are Wan Yan Xu¡¯s most beloved servants. They were smart and masters in martial arts; hence, their ranks were much more than simple maidservants.  After hearing the situation, they have no idea what to do. Disorderly discussed for a while, but still nothing had changed. Zi Liu hastily exclaimed: ¡°Why are we still discussing about this? If we are continuing, there would be nothing left of Su General¡¯s bones.¡±


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    .


    Zi Nong pouted and said: ¡°Will there be any bones left even we were not discussing about it? No matter how we are going to analyse, we still are only our King¡¯s servants. We¡¯re not Su General. Though he was pitiful, our loyal is with His Majesty. Since when the King decided this course of action, we ¡­¡­ we do not have the position and the power to stop it. Moreover ¡­¡­ what¡¯s the point of forestalling it? It¡¯s quite useless given the King¡¯s temperament; you should already know this.¡±


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    The trio looked at each other although they knew Zi Nong¡¯s speech may sound foolish, but it was the reality and could not help feeling slumped down. Zi Nan said: ¡°What does he look like? I heard he¡¯s only frail, not like the usual rough and forthright type General. How could three thousand beauties in the palace not pleased His Majesty, but him? I must see the man for myself one day.¡±


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    There, the trio discussed the incredible possibility in account of their King¡¯s preference. Wan Yan Xu, who saw injured Su Yi¡¯s body, did not rush to force the other man. He was not a hot headed man, but took things slowly even with intimacy, in order to experience the most pleasure out of it. Otherwise, like a pig (Zhu Bajie in Monkey Magic) that gulped a fruit in general, with only momentary gratification, but was dull without flavour. This thought was very consistent with his disposition. At this point, the other man in his eyes has become very thin, and seems to be easily slaughtered as his mind started to contemplate several ways in order to have fun with him.


    .


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    Su Yi has remained alone in the Royal Study Room. He found that the place was quiet and serene, not a torture room since there was not even a single rope insight, ¡®how will he interrogate a prisoner. Does he still want to use that persuasion strategy,¡¯ he looked at the other man¡¯s expressionless face, without slightest smile but maybe there is a hint of it.


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    He was puzzled over Wan Yan Xu¡¯s intention and was surprised to find that he has come over; the determined eyes were focused on his, suddenly, he deeply chuckled: ¡°Su general, these last few days, you had been mistreated. I feared you had not even showered. Look at this body, blood stains are everywhere. This truly is not consistent with your noble character. Alas, it is my negligence, but does not matter. I can compensate this overlooked matter, do follow me.¡± Then with one punch, the force had broken the chain in half as he pulled Su Yi along at the back of Royal Study Room.


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    Su Yi felt even more clueless about what the other man¡¯s intentions were, though they are adversarial stance, so he stood motionless and not moving an inch. In reality, he suffered a lot of tortures with little rest. Thus, his strength has long gone, but with the sheered will of unyielding has stopped him to find support. Wan Yan Xu was a little surprised but chuckled: ¡°You actually still have some strength left; truly amazing, even better.¡±Wan Yan Xu finished as he tucked the hair away from his forehead. Suddenly, with one arm wrapped around his waist and picked him up, hastily walked to the backroom. While he walked, he said: ¡°Su General, I have never carried anyone else before, even my favourite concubines. You should feel honoured.¡±


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    Su Yi was surprised, for this is no trivial matter. Although he was not knowledgeable in regards of sexuality, but knew that this carrying was somewhat wrong. Moreover, Wan Yan Xu was parring him with his concubines. Subsequently, with this line of thought, the intention seems to be very obvious. Nevertheless, he does not understand even with his former appearance that was a hundred times more attractive than now, had unmoved Wan Yan Xu. ¡®Why does he desire the present body that is covered in filth?¡¯ Besides, he had never heard this young Emperor ever caring for a male partner before. ¡®Am I being too suspicious? But ¡­¡­ but¡­¡­¡¯


    .


    .


    Su Yi¡¯s silent had killed Wan Yan Xu¡¯s amusement. Of course, in case of his courtiers, some would not be panicking in such situation but to be nonchalant like Su Yi, then there is none. Even Yu Cang, who¡¯s also a great warrior, though compared to Su Yi, would be a little off the mark in reaction. However, he did not know. In fact, Su Yi had no idea of what his intentions are. The other man did not want to overly interpret those words; seems to be vulgar by doing so.


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    When they entered the backroom, there really was a large pool, surrounded by heavy crimson curtains. At a distance, vapours curled upward due to transpiration of heat. Wan Yan Xu was not into pleasures in life, so this pool was not as grand as the one in Qi¡¯s palace, magnificently built but with rather striking formal layout. Several handmaids have knelt down and were waiting for them. Wan Yan Xu gestured for them to leave, ¡°If I am not calling for you, then do not come disturb me.¡±


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    Su Yi felt slightly shaken over the whole thing. Wan Yan Xu¡¯s statement was very ambiguous, even those handmaids looked at him in amazement, ¡®could it be¡­I have unfortunately guessed it right?¡¯ He could not convince himself that is was a possibility because of what he knew about Wan Yan Xu¡¯s personality, ¡®the other man had never done that kind of thing.¡¯

 CH 10

    Although it was unbelievable, but in such circumstances, Su Yi started struggling, though his body was held in Wan Yan Xu¡¯s arms so there was no leverage around for him to make use. Before he tried to give the other man a few kicks, Wan Yan Xu bantered a smirk, a ¡°boom¡± sounded. Fully clothed, he was thrown into a deep and large pool.


    .


    Su Yi suddenly choked on the water and he heard Wan Yan Xu laughed on the surface: ¡°Su General should be at ease, for this water is from the back garden spring water, and is absolutely clean. It¡¯s actually quite good for your health; drinking more would only benefit you. Perhaps it would add a little to your effort, and may even help you struggle in my arms a few times.¡± After he removed his garments, shows a bronze body then another ¡°boom¡± sound as he jumped into the water. The splashes have busted the water to cover Su Yi¡¯s sweating face. The messy black hair has become wet, sticking to the shoulder and looked a lot softer.


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    Su Yi subconsciously took a few steps back, his clear eyes for the first time has clouded, looking alert at Wan Yan Xu. The other man¡¯s body has no trace of fat nor scars, like the jungle¡¯s most vigorous elegant panther that he saw once at royal hunting ground, seems to be the most appropriate to describe the other man at the moment.


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    Wan Yan Xu¡¯s eyes flashed with frantic excitement, went forward step by step closer to Su Yi. Walked to his aside and said: ¡°Why are you wearing clothes here? Not to mention they¡¯re rags, there is no difference in wearing them or not. Or maybe Su General rather let me undress you personally? Ha ha ha, you know how to play hard to get.¡±


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    Su Yi was forced to step back at edge of the pool, and then listened to the lewd speech; he could not help but trembled, knowing that he had the misfortune of being correct in his deduction. His hands clutched the pool edge, and attempted to stay calm and said: ¡°You¡¯ve always been serious in your approach, so please control yourself. A person can be killed but cannot be humiliated, such despicable act, you should not do it.¡±


    .


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    Wan Yan Xu crooked his eyebrows in challenge, leisurely said: ¡°Serious approach? Oh, what a joke. Su General has experienced in battle field and worked hard to maintain your country¡¯s peace, but seemed to lack knowledge on human desire. Have you ever heard of a King who takes serious approach in their love life? I simply do not behave wildly like Qi¡¯s King but these words, I certainly do not deserve to bear.¡±


    .


    .


    Su Yi wondered whether the person in front of him was a fake Wan Yan Xu poser. The man¡¯s speeches were frivolous, teasing eyes and not the same man he had known, who looked cold and dangerous. Although acting seems to be easily played out, but the dominance of royal bearing could not be mimicked by anyone. Currently, Su Yi has nowhere to retreat. Wan Yan Xu was not worried, took another step forward whilst Su Yi clenched his fists and prepared for a fight, though he knew it was impossible to struggle due to his exhaustion. Nevertheless, as a seven-foot man, he cannot face such a humiliation, not to mention, the worst case scenario is death. He was captured and has no right to live any longer. Though, through his fear that if he offended Wan Yan Xu, his soldiers would be killed, so he only bitterly endured to this point. Death to him is like a road to freedom.


    .


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    His mind quickly held onto the idea and his eyes intently stared at Wan Yan Xu, waiting for the other man¡¯s action. At this point their bodies gradually close in. Suddenly he was leaned into the water; Su Yi did not comprehend it until his foot was taken a hold by a strong force, at once fell in the pool, once again swallowed a large gulp of water. Then a pair of strong large hands tightly embraced his waist, crashed sound, both were simultaneously returned to the surface, his ears were echoes of Wan Yan Xu¡¯s laughter: ¡°Ha ha ha, I¡¯d caught you.¡±Before he finished his sentence, the hands have already begun to move, torn off Su Yi¡¯s tattered wet clothes, and thrown very far away.


    .


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    Su Yi¡¯s heart sank as he immediately noticed one pair of hands, like slippery fish, carefully stroking his wounds; he had never received such humiliation even when he was a child. His blood boiled; the two rows of white teeth clenched hard and about to bite his own tongue to suicide.


    .


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    Su Yi saw his smile with a touch of sarcasm; evidently, the other man knew he could not selfishly allow other people to go on suffering if he could help it. He tried to calm himself, made an effort to persuade: ¡°I¡¯d always respect that you are a wise King. Even if I die, I believe that you will not do anything without benefits to you. Are you not afraid of the wrath of God, retribution of karma?¡± Although he may said those words but his heart knew it did not count, so quickly he side away from Wan Yan Xu¡¯s hands.


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    Wan Yan Xu snorted, hold him again and solemnly said: ¡°Su Yi, listen to me. I do not believe in gods or spirits. Qi¡¯s soldiers, besides those under your command, simply could not take a blow in battle and I have no interest in them. Your subordinates, who had followed you to battle for many years, they are brave and loyal. Therefore, only a few is really willing to surrender. Why should I heed for the rest since they are wasting food? Only with your life, really do not justify being the exchange for their lives. Although, if you¡¯re dead before surrendering, this would be the one thing I¡¯ll surely regret in this life. So Su Yi, you have to believe, I could easily take action according to what I say, otherwise I¡¯ll never be able to quash down my anger.¡±

 CH 11

    Su Yi looked calmly into his cold eyes, broken-hearted and grief-stricken as he bitterly said: ¡°If you want me to surrender, at least resort to an open means and not via such depravedly, vile method. This only sullied your reputation and will only make me despise you.¡±


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu sneered and said: ¡°A means to an end. Why is it a matter whether it is through an honourable act or despicable one? What¡¯s most important¡­is for me to have you under my body, listen to your crying out for mercy. Whether you¡¯ll surrender or not today, your body will be used to gratifying my needs.¡± Then suddenly leaned over and gripped the desirable lips, also prevented him from breathing.


    .


    .


    Su Yi was born into a scholarly family, with great emphasis on ethics. He did not get a chance to wed before he led the troops to war. During his time at the barracks, he was also abstinent and not engaged with any prostitutes. So although he is full grown man, he did not understand the taste of love affair. When Wan Yan Xu forcefully kissed him, his mind was buzzed with an ¡°Om¡± sound, like countless of stars flying around. Although he did not understand this kissing, but intuitively guessed that it was probably a dirty move. Therefore, his hands tried desperately to push the other body away as it was pushing his down.


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu found his innocent reaction very exciting. He saw that Su Yi was a na?ve kisser, did not even know how to avoid being kissed. Apparently, this man knew nothing about love affair and was very much like a piece of white paper; a man likes him, who is very possessive and selfish. To know that Su Yi¡¯s first time belonged to him, of course would please him greatly. Then he excitedly placed Su Yi at the pool edge where half of the body is still immersed in the water. His hand started tearing off what little left of Su Yi¡¯s clothing.


    .


    Su Yi body was suppressed, due to his frail body being smaller than the other man¡¯s and exhausted. No matter how much he struggled, only echoes of a faint thump sounded in water. Gradually, there was a trace of red expanding along with the water bubbles; since the wounds have not been healed and the two were tossing thus, torn these wounds apart. Su Yi felt terrible pain as the wounds reopen and soaked in the warm water. Consequently, when Wan Yan Xu¡¯s tongue left him, he had groaned loudly.


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu dazed, maybe he guessed wrong. He was wondering why he has been emotionally affected so easily. Unexpectedly, he saw the other man¡¯s eyebrows knitted, thin lips pressed tightly into a line and face seemed to be filled with pain; then he saw the water, and the blood was spreading upstream. He hastily lowered his head to examine the wounds and found they were not really deep, but there were large numbers of them, though not life threatening. This assured him and just about to embrace the man again, but Su Yi has taken the opportunity to make room and manoeuvre his body to kick him in the chest. Suddenly lost balance, Wan Yan Xu fell in the pool. Su Yi quickly turned to the rear to escape. Wan Yan Xu¡¯s hatred once again ablaze in his mind as he grabbed the long hair in the water and severely pulled Su Yi back.


    .


    .


    Su Yi felt the sting and once again, his body detained in the arms of Wan Yan Xu, looked at the other man¡¯s angry face and before he could make a move, a hand slapped across his face. After that, the other man fiercely shoved his head under the water, unable to breathe and choked in the water for a while before he was released, but not before long, Wan Yan Xu repeated the process again and again. Currently, Su Yi was physically weak and barely able to stand such torture thus, gradually he stopped struggling. Wan Yan Xu lifted his head and saw that Su Yi was already unconscious.


    .


    Wan Yan Xu dressed and called the handmaids back to the room as he coldly said: ¡°Bathe him but do not bandage his wounds. Then change the pool water before reporting to me when it is done. Geez, little Su Yi, I cannot believe I could not make him surrender. I have plenty of time to slowly play with him, until he yields.¡±


    .


    .


    The handmaids heard his merciless chilling tone, knew that he is very angry and wanted to teach this prisoner a lesson, felt terribly afraid and became speechless. Wan Yan Xu huffed as he went and left them busy to bathe Su Yi.


    .


    .


    When Wan Yan Xu returned to the Royal Study Room, he saw that Zi Nong, Zi Nan and Zi Liu have gathered there. They awkwardly met him and one by one were looking embarrassed; do not know what to say. He frowned and coldly said: ¡°What¡¯s going on? What¡¯s your problem? Why have you all come here?¡±


    .


    .


    Zi Nong was the first to speak. She was relying on his favouring her. After granted permission to speak, she quickly looked up and said: ¡°Master, where is Su General? Your servant wanted to ask if you like me to take him back to death row prison.¡±


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu was not angry instead laughed and said: ¡°This should be no concern to you. He is still staying at the pool, and I am not finished in interrogating him.¡±


    .


    .


    Zi Nong was shocked, in a panic, said: ¡°What? Master had not finished yet? Why does he need to be soaked in the pool? Are you only bathing with him?¡±When she finished, she saw the sight of Wan Yan Xu¡¯s sword eyes, and realised of her being indiscreet, coughed and tried to giggle: ¡°That ¡­¡­so Master only used water as a form of torture. Your servant is stupid and had not thought of this. So Master, please excuse us and you can return to your interrogation. We¡¯ll wait for your command to serve you.¡± She was so scared and tongue-tied; then pulled the other two outside the room.


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu angrily snorted, picked up a book and casually flipped them and was quite upset. He has always been proud and arrogant, but Su Yi has not bow under his hard or soft persuasion. Su Yi not surrendering was also unexpected. Of course this has enraged him. After the handmaids reported that all was done according to his command, he discovered that he had been reading the book backwards for nearly an hour.


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu returned to the bath and saw Su Yi was still not awaken; he looked at the handmaid, who was scared as she rushed down kneeling, and said: ¡°Master, he woke up once but started to kick and punch so your servant used sleeping incense on him that is why he has not woken up.¡±


    .


    .


    Wan Yan Xu nodded, did not blame them. With Su Yi¡¯s temper, he should have known. He saw Su Yi¡¯s body covered with a bathrobe, his eyes were closed and his body was lying on a bench beside the pool, the long black hair has been neatly combed, there were a few curls hanging on the chest; the gap of the bathrobe shows a pair of small nipples almost visible. Although the body was still covered in scars, it arouses his reveries. He immediately felt his crotch burning and could not help but gulped mouthfuls of saliva.


    .

 CH 12

    The palace maidens didn''t wait for his instructions, sensibly, they quickly retreated. After they left, Wanyan Xu approached Su Yi, and carefully took Su Yi into his embrace. The thin lips, usually stubborn and unbending to the point of making others'' teeth itch [1], were slightly parted, imparting a thread of softness. Su Yi''s complexion was still pallid in the aftermath of the cruel torture, although his cheeks were stained with a hint of blush due to the steam rising up from the bathing pool. His eyelashes were both long and thick, giving the impression of a pair of small fans. At this instant, his whole visage was much more gentle and adorable, making it difficult for people to believe that this was the very same General Su Yi who was hailed as being invincible on the battlefield.

 CH 13

    In many circumstances, resistance is futile. Su Yi was in just such a tragic situation. The shiny red object had made contact with his tongue, causing a wave of revulsion to sweep through him. Having been starved for a few days, he could only retch dryly, unable to even throw up the acidic liquids in his stomach. Wanyan Xu cared nothing of his wishes, continuing to press on his head, until half of the *** [1] was probing his mouth. Soft and smooth black hair hung down, silky threads falling around his groin, the slightly ticklish sensation was indeed very pleasurable. The already enormous object stuffed into Su Yi''s mouth grew even larger with the additional stimulation.

 CH 14

    Wanyan Xu was infuriated; although he knew that Su Yi was lying, he had no means of proving it. Even more unfortunate was the feeling of having been cast from the clouds into a dark bottomless pit, never in his life had he ever tasted such bitter frustration. Grabbing a fistful of Su Yi''s long hair, with malicious intent he said: ¡°Is that so? Never mind, even the unfamiliar will become natural with practice; I [1] shall give you further instruction.¡± With no further explanation, he again shoved his thing into Su Yi''s mouth. Using one hand to clamp down on Su Yi''s jaw, he relentlessly directed his shaft to charge violently around Su Yi''s soft oral cavity.

 CH 15

    Wanyan Xu and Zi Liu were greatly startled. Wanyan Xu was able to restrain his anger, and just gazed at Su Yi steadily. Zi Liu busied herself with stooping over Su Yi, checking him over while questioning him: ¡°Is General Su feeling alright? Do you have any more residual blood in your mouth? It''s best to spit it all out...¡± Unexpectedly, Su Yi reached out to clutch her hand tightly, not answering her questions, he fixed his eyes upon hers, with a trembling voice he demanded: ¡°You¡­ What you said¡­ Is it true? Could it really be true?


    Neither Wanyan Xu nor Zi Liu had ever seen Su Yi like this. Throughout his captivity, he had maintained a resolute composure; the image he presented to the world was as placid as a frozen lake, hidden under that, he had a strength of character as unyielding as iron. Never before had he appeared frantic and vulnerable. Zi Liu began to review the recent events, and understood immediately that her conversation with his Majesty must have been heard by Su Yi. This man was a loyal patriot, and had dedicated his life towards serving his country, the news he had overheard must have been tantamount to the heavens collapsing and the earth caving in.


    Zi Liu''s heart softened and she couldn''t bear to speak further. Su Yi was still clutching her hand in a vice-like grip, as if holding on to the last straw that could save him from drowning, and kept on asking: ¡°It¡¯s¡­ true? It¡¯s¡­ really true?¡± She cast a pleading glance at Wanyan Xu, only to see that his eyes were as hard as iron, ostensibly, he was totally unmoved. Suddenly Wanyan Xu''s hand shot out, grabbing Su Yi''s wrist, he wrenched his hand away from Zi Liu''s. He said icily: ¡°Whether the news is true or not, do I [1] have to repeat it?¡±


    Su Yi stared defiantly into his eyes, like a wolf preparing to engage in mortal combat. Eventually despondency slowly showed in his eyes, and he hung his head. Although Su Yi was obviously trying to force them back, the sound of muffled sobs was subsequently audible. Zi Liu''s earlier joy now gave way to heartache, as she thought to herself: ¡°A country ruined and their people starving, this misfortune is truly traumatic. Hopefully he will be able to get over his shock, and won''t consider self-destruction.¡±


    The weather on this day was mild, having been forced to go out into the sunshine by Wanyan Xu, Su Yi sat down on a lounge chair in the courtyard. Because of geographical reasons, Jin Liao had little in the way of brightly coloured flowers. Featuring jade-green trees reaching to the sky mixed with stumpy shrubs, in terms of elegance and beauty, this courtyard could not hope to compare with those in the Great Qi country. Su Yi was a little overcome by emotion, sighing out loud he thought: although this tree does not have brilliantly coloured flowers, its foliage is lush, full of vitality. In this aspect, the flamboyant but delicate blooms and rare herbs grown in the warm and nurturing climate of the south cannot compare.


    Just as he was lost in these dark thoughts, he heard a cool and clear voice. Tinged with a hit of sarcasm, it recited a poem [2]: ¡°Beauties in the Chu [3] palace sweep their brows with umber, alas, even with their beautiful maquillage, they can only enjoy the spring sunset silently, having no one to converse with. Throughout the ages the ultimate difficulty is eternal death, General Su is not the only grieving soul in this world.¡± Su Yi was greatly startled, turning his head in the direction of that voice, he saw a woman even more dazzlingly beautiful than Zi Nong walking at a leisurely pace towards him. Her phoenix eyes [4], filled with provocation, were gazing at Su Yi. Half-laughing, she said; ¡°General Su, do you think my modifications [5] to the poem were appropriate?¡±

 CH 16

    With these words, Zi Yan monopolised Su Yi¡¯s attention. This was the very matter than he agonized over day and night, feeling that with his disadvantaged position he had no means of gaining the upper hand. If Wanyan Xu insisted on taking his pleasure with Su Yi, Su Yi could see no means of escape other than death. Although Su Yi was not afraid of dying, he could not bring himself to take that route, afraid that Wanyan Xu''s wrath would be vented on his people.

 CH 17

    Looking at Wanyan Xu again, Su Yi finally made up his mind. In a low voice he said: "But... even after all that... but in my heart, I am still very... I admire you deeply.¡± To express such thoughts was difficult for him; he had trouble articulating the words and was unable to say them without pauses. Wanyan Xu''s eyebrows shot up, he shot Su Yi a look but Su Yi didn''t dare to meet his eyes, afraid that he was going to be ridiculed.

 CH 18

    Su Yi immediately began to struggle; his physical condition was now miles removed from what it had been during the period of time he was being tortured. After he gave Wanyan Xu a few hard punches, Wanyan Xu actually found that he was unable to keep a good hold of Su Yi, almost dropping him down. He heaved a disgruntled sigh and said: ¡°I [1] didn¡¯t think that allowing your body to recuperate would have such an unpleasant consequence.¡± As he was speaking, he set Su Yi down. Wanyan Xu''s eyes were bright and glittering and he was resolved that today would be the day he would finally savour this delightful morsel.

 CH 19

    Watching Su Yi face death with equanimity, Zi Yan could not help but feel respect. Zi Yan was highly skilled in martial arts, her swordplay was masterful, and in addition, Su Yi was putting up no resistance. Hence she said: ¡°The only thing I can do for you now, is to give you a clean and fast death. General, please don''t mind me." The dagger flashed like lightning, about to accomplish its goal - the skin of Su Yi''s neck had been pierced and a trace of blood was seeping out ¨C when a panicky voice rang out: ¡°Zi Yan, what are you doing?¡±

 CH 20

Wanyan Xu¡¯s eyes also widened, after a long pause he gave a sneer: ¡°You¡¯re mad, how could I [1] possibly let u go? Su Su, it seems like you still harbour evil intentions, I must strengthen the quality of the guards watching over you.¡±

 CH 21

    Su Yi fretted all through the night, not even daring to move. Just as dawn was breaking, he finally managed to doze off. In contrast, Wanyan Xu slept soundly, waking up with his body and spirits refreshed. Looking at Su Yi who was lying by his side, Wanyan Xu could see that even in repose, Su Yi''s brows were still tightly scrunched up, as if he was still on alert. A light laugh escaped from his lips, he thought to himself: Is there really such a need to be so wary of me [1], with a person like you, only when the time is right and proper can I recklessly behave as I please. For now, I need to reign in my impulses. Only¡­

 CH 22

Su Yi was already in a bad mood, upon hearing Wanyan Xu''s words he grew angrier, saying in a loud voice: ¡°Which of your eyes saw us getting along well? Thanks to you, the two of us are mortal enemies. If you don''t get along well that is only to be expected, why should you worry over it?¡±

 CH 23

    For the country of Jin Liao, moving the capital was the most important thing that had ever happened since her founding. In comparison with the move of the capital, even the heavy defeats they had previously suffered when they had encroached on the Great Qi''s territory now seemed trivial. During this period of time, the whole country was seething with excitement; heated discussions could be heard on every street and every alley. Although the land of Jin Liao had a harsh climate and was barren, it was still considered home by many people and the citizens of Jin Liao were understandably reluctant to leave their native lands. Fortunately, Wanyan Xu had always governed the country well, his people had enough confidence in him that whatever popular dissent there was to his decision did not escalate to rebellious plots and conspiracies.

 CH 24

    The meaning of "extreme sorrow turns to joy [1]", the meaning of "sincerity splits open gold and stone", the meaning of "hard work pays off for the resolute man", Wanyan Xu thoroughly understood the meaning of all such expressions in a split second. He was almost bursting with joy, and instinctively felt that he should cover his face with smiles and squeeze out two tears to express how moved he was. But all he did was to stare blankly at Su Yi; he didn''t do anything, because he was incapable of doing anything.

 CH 25

    Su Yi slumped onto the bed in dejection. He could clearly recall Wanyan Xu¡¯s words to him on that night, but he had thought they were just idle musings and had not taken them to heart. Thinking back, could he have been perfectly serious? Thinking of this, he could not help but feel both shock and fear. He was shocked that Wanyan Xu would have the audacity to defy the world and name a male Empress. His fear stemmed from the possibility that should he refuse, Wanyan Xu might really unleash a storm of bloody vengeance upon his people. No matter how he thought over the matter, he could not see how he had even the slightest room for resistance. He heaved a long sigh, even after he endured much suffering and had found a way to cope with his humiliation to continue living without purpose, could it be that Heaven had still not finished testing him?

 CH 26

    Su Yi had always been a self-possessed person, so even though his tone was clearly bleak, Wanyan Xu thought that that was only because he had thought of the destruction of his country again. He felt a deep pain in his heart and was unwilling to dwell on the matter himself, choosing instead to engage Su Yi in more idle chat. Su Yi continued wearing a blank expression; evidently he wasn''t very interested in the conversation. Since Wanyan Xu had to attend court early the next morning, he said: ¡°It¡¯s getting late, you should have a good rest. I [1] shall come to accompany you again tomorrow.¡± Having said that, he left the room. To Zi Nong and the other palace maids who were waiting outside he said: "look after him well, I will reward all of you well in future." Zi Liu hurriedly draped a heavy cloak over him, while a few palace maidens and eunuchs prepared lanterns. They escorted him as he returned to his own residence.

 CH 27

    At the sound, Su Yi''s heart, which had been lodged in his throat, now began to sink, sinking straight into a bottomless abyss. Slowly, Su Yi turned and saw that Wanyan Xu was leaning heavily against the door, as if he lacked the strength to hold himself upright. His head was bowed and his eyes were fixed on the blood-stained sword. Although blood was still flowing from the wound on Su Yi¡¯s neck, and the handkerchief bandaging Zi Nong¡¯s hand had already been soaked through with blood, Wanyan Xu did not care to spare them a glance.

 CH 28

    Su Yi, still tied up, was confined to his room. Although he refused to eat, the attendants who brought him his meals did not try to force the issue. Three days passed like this, and he was feeling dizzy and seeing stars as a result of hunger. In his heart he thought: ¡°if I can continue staying here without having to care about other matters, I won''t mind starving to death." But every time he thought of how Wanyan Xu''s eyes had cycled through a myriad of emotions before finally turning cold on that fateful night, his heart would begin to throb faintly with pain. Wedged in between was a sense of dread that innocent people would have to pay the price for his attempt at suicide.

 CH 29

    Su Yi¡¯s entire body started to tremble uncontrollably. Although he knew that Wanyan Xu was not incapable of being vicious and ruthless, he had never imagined that he would be merciless to this extent, totally devoid of any human feelings. Is this really the Wanyan Xu he had come to know? Su Yi looked at his eyes, which were cloudy with killing intent and the bloodthirsty smile hanging around the corners of his lips and he felt a chill rising up from the bottom of his feet, spreading throughout his body to freeze all his organs. His flesh, blood and tendons were similarly frozen and finally, he felt his very nerves start to ice over. He desperately tried to dash forward, but he was restrained by the guards who he could not struggle free of. He wanted to scream for Wanyan Xu to stop, but although his mouth was open no sound came out. His face was deathly pale and his body was bowed, like a bull that was trying with all its might to escape its restraints and struggle onward. He dragged his feet forward step by step, but was immediately pulled back in the next instant. His whole person was enveloped with horror and tears were pouring down his face like a broken string of pearls. Before his eyes, Wanyan Xu slowly raised the sword, under the sunlight, the blade glinted with a cold gleam.

 CH 30

Relieved, Wanyan Xu gave a long exhale but he did not relax his grip on the sword, not did the blade move even an inch away from the woman''s jacket. Glacially, he asked: ¡°What do you promise me [1]? Say it yourself for me to hear.¡±

 CH 31

    Thus, when Su Yi opened his eyes, the first thing he saw was Wanyan Xu peering at him with worry written all over his face. In his eyes, Su Yi could see the depth of his affections, but when Wanyan Xu realised that Su Yi had opened his eyes, he quickly schooled his expression to appear neutral. A pang of pain struck his heart, and Su Yi shut his eyes again, in a cold voice that did not betray his feelings, he said: ¡°Why have you come here? You have already got what you desired, in the end I was forced to agree to be your... Don''t tell me you want to force me to say it again, and have my heart drip a few more drops of blood before you are satisfied? Or is it that when I knelt down before the stage and begged you just a while ago, it made you feel very happy and you have come here to enjoy the sight of me weak and powerless?¡±

 CH 32

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 CH 33

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 CH 34

    Crimson garments, an extravagant crown heavily encrusted with luminous oriental pearls, a table piled high with a huge variety of ornaments and pendants crafted out of the finest jade with a pure, delicate white colour. Wanyan Xu looked at the dazzling array of wedding paraphernalia and felt truly jubilant. Su Su, the person he had yearned for day and night, would officially be his wife in both name and deed after tonight [1] in addition to becoming the first male Empress of Jin Liao in history.

 CH 35

Su Yi would never be able to forget this day, nor will he ever be able to forget the exact moment when he was forced into becoming the Empress of Jin Liao.

 CH 36

Su Yi said blandly: ¡°Reputation? As a defeated general, why should one still care so much about reputation?¡± Although it might seem that he said these words to Wanyan Shuo, it also seemed as though he meant to direct those words at himself.

 CH 37

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 CH 38

    Wave after wave of peculiar feelings washed over him, emanating from his sensitive back entrance to sweep through his entire body. Su Yi clutched at the brocade mattress with a death grip and the knuckles of his fist turned white. How could this be? How was it possible that just because that body part was being teased and rubbed, his entire body was beginning to heat up uncontrollably, even his heart seemed to be giving a tremor in response to each and every movement of that finger. Don¡¯t tell me... Don''t tell me that I was born with an inherently licentious body? Even when another man is... it will also... it will also respond with such a lack of self-control.

 CH 39

    Wanyan Xu was extremely nervous, worried that he would inflict pain on the man lying under him. He gently kissed his forehead, nose and red lips, followed by his smooth neck, rounded shoulders, beautifully shaped collarbone, and a puckered red cherry. His unwavering affection permeated each move, these meaningful caresses and kisses truly caused Su Yi to feel incomparably comfortable and snug. But a rather awkward scene was beginning to take place at Su Yi back entrance, although discomfort at the opening had been eased, the passage needed relief even more urgently than before. It was clamouring to be filled, for the itch to be absolved through the application of friction, but how could he ever say these words aloud?

 CH 40

    Su Yi could not tell how much time had passed, he only felt that he was about to die from having to forcibly restrain himself from giving in to the powerful waves of pleasure. Caught in the implacable gulf between morality and sexual desire, he could only gasp for breath, and his body felt weak and unsteady. Sapped of even the ability to control his own vocalisations, the sound of his own moans rang in his ears. ¡°Ah ah ah... en... wu wu...¡± Lewd sounds like these were emerging from his mouth, almost like he was speaking an obscene language, and then there was the charming cry that signalled the approaching peak of pleasure. He simply could not stand to believe it, but the one who had made that sound was none other than himself.

 CH 41

    Su Yi raised his head and looked at him blankly, but when he finally managed to decipher the meaning of Wanyan Xu¡¯s words, his face became the colour of a cooked prawn and his refined brows shot up in an expression of indignation. He didn''t know where he managed to find the strength, but he managed to shove Wanyan Xu away with an arm and said: ¡°Don¡¯t you dare.¡±

 CH 42

    At first, Su Yi refused to turn over and his back passage really began to hurt as if it had been set aflame. But when he considered that Wanyan Xu had already done plenty of even more shameful things to him in the bathroom, and his state of extreme discomfort, he decided not to resist when Wanyan Xu made a move to flip him onto his stomach. His behaviour was so unexpected to Wanyan Xu that he was momentarily stunned; it was a long while before a big smile began to blossom on his face and he carefully parted Su Yi¡¯s butt cheeks. With his finger, he carefully applied and worked the ointment onto that red and swollen chrysanthemum.

 CH 43

    Time flew by, and the sun was already shining brightly overhead when Su Yi began to squirm around in bed and gradually awaken. He shifted slightly, but even such a small movement made him hurt, it seemed as though there wasn''t a single part of his body that did not ache, his bones in particular seemed as though they had been shattered and could no longer provide a framework for his body. As he was struggling to get up from the bed, Zi Nong came in. Bearing down on him gently, she prevented him from rising and said: ¡°Empress Consort please rest for a while, let Zi Nong sooth and warm up your muscles and tendons before you try to get up again.¡± She suddenly say Su Yi look up at her, with a hint of entreaty in his eyes, he said: ¡°Miss Zi Nong, please don''t address me like that. Could you please keep on calling me Young Master instead?¡±

 CH 44

    Although Su Yi tended to be blindly loyal, he was also an extremely bright and perceptive man. Listening to Zi Liu and Zi Nong, he could probably guess about seventy or eighty percent of what had happened. However, he simply found it incredibly difficult to believe that people who were close to him would conspire with Wanyan Xu to put on a show to deceive him, all for the sake of forcing him to promise to become Wanyan Xu''s Empress.

 CH 45

    Su Yi tried to help them up and said: ¡°Don''t worry, I am certainly not one to go back on my word, I will just continue to behave like I know nothing of this matter. But the two of you are too negative, even if Wanyan Xu discovers that you had inadvertently revealed the truth of the matter, the two of you are among his most trusted and favoured aides, how could he demand that you compensate for your error through death?¡±

 CH 46

    Here, we must remember the kind of child Wanyan Shuo was. Precocious and devious, he was just like a cunning little fox cub. When he saw that Su Yi was assuming such an unexpected demeanour after his teasing --- one wholly without shame or distress --- his alert mind registered that something unusual was about to happen and his heartbeat quickened and became stronger, like a drum had replaced his heart. He murmured to himself: ¡°Don¡¯t tell me that I pushed him too hard and now he¡¯s determined to subdue me.¡± Sneaking another glance at Su Yi''s face, he grew even more convinced that his hunch was correct and decided that it was time to apply the metaphorical oil to his soles for speed and beat a hasty retreat. He put on a winning smile and said: ¡°Ah, Mother Empress, about that lesson... Your son and subject has suddenly remembered that there is an important thing that he has neglected to do, your son and subject must retire first to attend to that matter.¡± So saying, he turned and was about to take to his heels and escape.

 CH 47

    Su Yi looked at Wanyan Xu. He looked at this man who he felt both high esteem and deep hatred for. He looked at this man who was born to be the bitterest enemy he would ever encounter but who was also the most intimate confidant that he would ever have in his life. He looked at this man who had originally wanted his life, but who now persistently tried to have his heart. At this moment, a feeling, one that he could not describe with his voice nor make sense of with his brain, slowly started to emanate from the bottom of his heart.

 CH 48

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 CH 49

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 CH 50

The expression on Su Yi''s face remained stoic, and he said with a bland smile: ¡°What joy is there in life, what horror is there in death. There is no harm in Miss saying what she thinks, Su Yi will just listen with respectful attention.¡±

 CH 51

    Because Liu Province and other places had been severely impacted by natural disasters, Wanyan Xu had been preoccupied with discussing appropriate countermeasures with his ministers for the past few days and sending officials to the afflicted areas to distribute grain and other forms of disaster-relief. Therefore, he had no time for any respite during the daylight hours, only when night fell could he go to the Garden of Merriment and enjoy some tender moments with Su Yi.

 CH 52

    The sound of Yu Cang''s steady footsteps gradually grew louder as he approached and Zi Nong''s heart grew ever more conflicted. What should she do, His Majesty has summoned Yu Cang, evidently he intends to take some action, but it''s just that Young Master... Young Master¡­ In her heart of hearts, Zi Nong had no intention of accepting Su Yi¡¯s escape as fact.

 CH 53

    With a belly full of hopeful expectations and counting his chickens before they are hatched, Yu Cang set off to deal with his b¨ºte noir once and for all. But before he was even half-a-mile into his journey, he heard the thundering of horses'' hooves behind him, when he turn back for a look, he saw that the Crown Prince Wanyan Shuo and his personal bodyguard Xiao Yan had caught up to him. Shocked and dismayed, he hurried to dismount from his horse to formally greet Wanyan Shuo, before saying: ¡°The body of the Crown Prince is more valuable than ten-thousand taels of gold, I wonder what is the important matter that has caused you to come here personally?¡±

 CH 54

    In the end, Yu Cang had the strength of numbers on his side, and in much less than an hour, all of the "rebels", with the exception of Su Yi, had all been "killed on the spot." Su Yi, on the other hand, had had his acupoint struck and had fallen into a slumber and was being carried back to the palace. In fact, all of this had been pre-arranged. The so-called "killings" had been faked by using concealed bladed weapons to slash open bags of pig blood that the people who were acting as rebels wore in front of their chests under their clothes. After that, they merely had to play dead.

 CH 55

The place of the scene was once again the large pool in the Garden of Merriment. Through the clouds of steam rising up from the pool, the silhouette of two people entwined in an embrace while being seated was vaguely visible.

 CH 56

    Courtesy of Yu Cang''s loose and malicious tongue, news of the Empress''s defection had spread like wildfire in the reception room where all the courtiers gathered before attending court in the morning. The crafty Yu Cang had his own plans for Su Yi; taking advantage of the fact that Wanyan Xu had neglected to explicitly order him to keep this matter a secret, he had made sure that every courtier gathered in that room now knew what Su Yi had done, stirring up animosity towards him and laying the groundwork for what Yu Cang wished to happen. That way, even if Wanyan Xu was still inclined to show favouritism towards Su Yi, all of the ministers would vehemently raise objections and prevent that from happening.

 CH 57

    Wanyan Xu''s heart felt like it was being squeezed tightly, as he hurriedly descended from dais where the Dragon Throne was set up, he heard Wanyan Shuo''s furious voice ringing out from beyond the palace hall:¡¡¡°Who¡­ Who allowed you people to beat him using this method?¡± Hearing that, Wanyan Xu was both alarmed and afraid, and he hurried outside. The assembled ministers also promptly followed him out. Once in the courtyard, Wanyan XU saw that Wanyan Shuo was standing next to the long bench that Su Yi had been tied to for the course of his punishment and, in a loud voice, was questioning the two palace guards that were carrying out the punishment. The white prison attire that Su Yi, who was still bound to the bench, was wearing had become soaked through with perspiration and clearly showed that in the area of his knees, the bleeding flesh had become badly mangled. Wanyan Xu''s head spun, and he almost blacked out. Forcing himself to remain conscious, he flung himself in front of Su Yi to take a look at his face, only to see that although blood was dripping from his lips, he had already fainted.

 CH 58

    Wanyan Xu deliberated for a long time but finally, he nodded and said ruefully: ¡°The honoured minister He is right, I [1] will issue a decree to announce this matter today. Court is dismissed.¡± So saying, he lugubriously rose up from the Dragon Throne and without further ado, went back to his own palace.

 CH 59

    Wanyan Xu and the Empress Dowager were pointing out particularly impressive specimens of lotus flowers in the pond to each other and joking light-heartedly at the same time when Su Yi blundered into them. Both of them were stunned upon the chance encounter, but soon after, the surprise gave way to a wave of sorrow that surged up from the bottom of their hearts. They could only stare dumbly at each other for a spell, as all the attendants bowed their heads and averted their eyes at the awkwardness of the situation, not even daring to breathe too loudly. A heavy pall of silence descended, though the garden was a large venue, if a pin had dropped anywhere the sound it would produce would have been audible. The Empress Dowager just watched them with cold eyes, but she did not speak.

 CH 60

    Su Yi was startled by the look in his eyes and just as he was about to advise Wanyan Shuo to return to his father, he found that the boy was now staring at him obstinately. In a loud voice, Wanyan Shuo said: ¡°Why? Why did you leave my Imperial Father and me? If you already intended to do so from the very beginning, then why were you so dedicated to teaching me right from wrong? Why are you now telling me to be mindful of my own status and that I should not let my tears fall so easily? I... that I have become like this today, does it have anything to do with you anymore? You... you stopped caring about me the day that you deserted us, isn¡¯t that right? Since you already knew that you would eventually abandon me, why did you ever bother to treat me well? The weaker I become, the more degenerate I am, the more convenient it will be for your hopes of restoring the Empire of the Great Qi, isn¡¯t it? You... you... I hate you.¡± The little Crown Prince''s words rushed out like a torrent, and by the time he finished his outburst, his little face was covered with tears. Suddenly, he brusquely turned his back to Su Yi and said in a loud voice: ¡°I... I will never be put under your spell again and I will not listen to you anymore.¡± As he said those words, he was already running up the path, away from Su Yi.

 CH 61

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 CH 62

    If we are speaking about people within the palace, while it was true that the Empress Dowager and Wanyan Xu both inspired great fear in this Concubine Yin, the person she feared the most was actually none other than this little Crown Prince, Wanyan Shuo. She had always been a clever woman; smooth and slick, she could adapt and present an aspect of herself that would be most pleasing to her interlocutor. Her social graces had won her popularity with both the Empress Dowager and the Emperor; only Wanyan Shuo had never fallen for her attempts to win him over. If one were to compare them in terms of intellect, then Concubine Yin could not hope to catch up with him even if she were riding a horse and whipping it. Even before Su Yi had arrived in the palace, she had already suffered much bitterness at the hands of Wanyan Shuo. At first, she had thought that she would bring up Wanyan Shuo so as to strengthen her hand as the most suitable candidate for the position of Empress but in less than two months, she had been compelled to appear before Wanyan Xu to beg that the responsibility for the care of the Crown Prince be lifted from her. The little demon king had messed with her so much that she was truly scared of him.

 CH 63

    Su Yi''s heart twisted with pain. He knew that Wanyan Shuo was still emotionally attached to him, but taking into account Su Yi''s current situation and status, if Wanyan Shuo continued to have warm feelings towards him, Su Yi knew that this would only cause a hundred harms to him with not even a single benefit to balance it out. Therefore, he carefully restrained himself from showing even a shred of care and concern for the little boy in his speech. Instead, he offered another respectful bow and said: ¡°Much thanks to the Crown Prince for coming to the aid of your humble servant.¡±

 CH 64

    A long time passed as everybody stared at Su Yi, to the point where he was wondering if they were trying to devour him with their eyes. As he was getting increasingly uncomfortable, he was relieved when that elegant man finally said: ¡°In that case, thank you for your trouble, please lead the way.¡± He hurried inside the building, heading towards the room where all the laundry had been piled up, with the Prince following behind him silently.

 CH 65

    It¡¯s him, of course it was him, and it could only be him. Su Yi could only laugh bitterly in his heart as he thought:Wanyan Xu oh Wanyan Xu, are you still unable to give up your feelings for me even now? Oh, you''re the Emperor; naturally you already have to bear the heavy responsibility of looking after the country. To come all the way here during such a stormy night, what shall we do if you should be affected by the chilly weather and take ill? With all the stress you must be under, you really ought to take better care of your body. You... can''t you let me feel that my debt to you is not so deep? What you¡¯re doing... only causes me to feel even more heartache.

 CH 66

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 CH 67

Wanyan Shuo looked at her, after giving a bitter laugh, he said: ¡°Remember, do not let him know that I was the one who sent the food to him. He will¡­ he will surely find it laughable.¡± With that, he waved a hand and said: ¡°Go on, I will also go back to my palace.¡±

 CH 68

    At this moment, all sorts of different feelings welled up in Wanyan Xu''s heart, and he sighed faintly. Wanyan Shuo had sharp ears, on picking up his Imperial Father''s faint sigh, he quickly came over to investigate and immediately fell silent as well. When the Empress Dowager, Concubine Yin and the rest noticed the pair of them acting so peculiarly, they were inevitable curious. The hall was set with windows all along its walls, so glancing in the same direction, the crowd could see what it was that had arrested the attention of Wanyan Xu and his son. When they saw the lonely figure in the snow, they were similarly stumped.

 CH 69

    A few young maids lifted the curtains and showed them into the hall. After Su Yi had paid his respects, he stood to the side and said calmly: ¡°To send for Su Yi today, I wonder what instructions the Empress Dowager has for me.¡± With his unyielding-to-the-death character, naturally he would refuse to refer to himself as a slave. The Empress Dowager did not quibble over this, instead she looked him up and down, sizing him up. In her heart she could not help but to feel some grudging respect for him, thinking: no wonder Imperial Son is still obsessed with him to this day, and even Shuo Er is no exception. Indeed, he has an exceptionally distinguished bearing. Just from looking at him here and now, even with his present status, he is still neither servile nor overbearing; not resentful or combative. Doubtlessly, these concubines cannot compare with him in terms of character.

 CH 70

    On the twenty-ninth day of the twelfth lunar month, all the necessary goods that would be used in the celebration of the New Year in the palace were already in place. On the thirtieth day, snow had been falling since early morning. When Wanyan Xu visited the Empress Dowager to pay his respects, the two were both in high spirits. Wanyan Xu gave a sigh and said: ¡°The previous monarch of Qi was dissolute and tyrannical, such a great country was afflicted with all ills under his rule. Although I [1] have reduced taxes and duties to ease the suffering of the people, they still need a period of time before they can recover the quality of life that they enjoyed under the reign of his predecessor. A timely snow [2] has fallen today, if the following year brings good weather and harvests, then the people will be able to make an almost complete recovery by this time next year.¡±

 CH 71

    As it turns out, this dish of roasted sheep was the customary main dish in a Jin Liao New Year''s Eve feast; it was expected to be served at such occasions to symbolize that the coming year would be happy and peaceful and that the country would prosper while the people would be at peace. Therefore in the hearts of the people of Jin Liao, it was no less important than praying for blessings or offering sacrifices to the gods and ancestors. Even people who were very impoverished and could not afford a whole sheep also felt the need to buy morsels of sheep such as mutton, mutton tripe and sheep bones in order to prepare such a dish. Those people who were carrying this important dish into the hall were perennially working in the kitchen; thus, they did not recognise Su Yi. If that were not the case, even if they were at their last gasp, they would not have dared to let him lift the dish, much less because of a simple case of diarrhoea.

 CH 72

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 CH 73

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 CH 74

    However, Zi Nan only looked at the Empress Dowager and Wanyan Xu awkwardly, only when she saw that everyone was about to burst with impatience did she say, with a voice as small as a mosquito''s: ¡°Do the Empress Dowager and the Emperor... do you still remember... remember the second... second Prince?¡±

 CH 75

    Zi Nan nodded her head, the expression on her face was terrible to look at and she said in a tragic voice: ¡°Second... Second Prince... once he heard that it was the Emperor who was summoning him to treat the Empress... he immediately... immediately rejected the request in the next breath, and refused to allow your humble servants to say even half a sentence more.¡± So saying, she hung her head, feeling very ashamed of her failure.

 CH 76

    Zi Liu, Zi Nan and Wanyan Xu were all on edge as they looked at him. After waiting for what felt like half a day, finally they saw him give a mocking laugh and say: ¡°Worthy little brother, hahaha, I am going to laugh myself to death. That an object of shame such as I can become the Emperor''s worthy little brother, where do I begin to start enumerating how ridiculous this is?¡±

 CH 77

    It was already high noon. Wanyan Xia stared at the dishes of exquisite food laid out on the table for his mid-day repast but he did not feel even the slightest desire to employ his chopsticks and partake of the meal. Instead, his gaze drifted over to the window, and he saw that that person was still kneeling in the snow. A thick layer of snow had already accumulated over his body, but he still kept his waist ram-rod straight as he balanced upon his knees, just as if he was giving expression to his determination to never give up.

 CH 78

    The effect of this single sentence was like clouds parting to reveal a bright full moon or the snows melting with the advent of spring. Wanyan Xu had become so frozen that he had lost almost all sensation in his face, but even so, a stiff rictus of ecstasy formed on his face, making him look extremely weird. In great excitement, he stood up but with a "pu tong" sound, he sank back down into a kneel. The pain in his knees was akin to having countless silver needles piercing the flesh of that area. Both numb and pained, that singular feeling was beyond his ability to describe. With Zi Nan supporting him, he managed to slowly regain his feet, but once again, his body sank down and he fell heavily onto the frozen ground.

 CH 79

    Although Su Yi had speculated on whether this Second Prince with the surpassing medical skills that they were speaking of was none other than the Prince he had encountered before while Zi Nong and the rest were discussing the matter, but when he actually saw Wanyan Xia, he was still taken aback. On the other hand, Wanyan Xia regained his equilibrium in the time it took to blink. Looking at Su Yi, he frowned and said: ¡°So you are the Empress? I instructed you to watch your diet previously, so how did you still manage to land yourself into this state because of your eating habits? Although your previous condition was serious, it was still not life-threatening; it was nothing compared to now.¡± He went up to Su Yi, and read his pulse. After a long time, he sighed and said to Wanyan Xu: ¡°I know that your deep love for him is genuine. Since that is so, how did you come to let your Empress serve in the laundry service when banishment to the Cold Palace [1] should have been the heaviest punishment? What could make you hate him enough to punish him like that, and yet still care enough to beg me to save his life today?¡±

 CH 80

    And so, by the time that Wanyan Xu had seated himself on the Dragon Throne, the courtiers below the dais had already arrayed themselves in neat rows according to their rank. Kneeling down, they shouted their customary greeting of wishing him long life. If this had been a usual day, Wanyan Xu would have allowed the assembled courtiers to rise to their feet after that, but fury was boiling in his heart today. With a grim look on his face, he said coldly: ¡°Is this considered to be you paying respect to me [1]? What loyal ministers all of you are. I was still thinking that for you to come here so early on the second day of the New Year for court, your intentions must have been to continue trying to coerce me from where you left off on New Year''s Eve.¡±

 CH 81

    Wanyan Xu turned his body around, casting a disbelieving look at his own son, as if he did not dare to put faith in what he had heard, for fear that it was too good to be true. Although he had already come to be suspicious of the circumstances surrounding Su Yi''s defection, in the end, he had no proof to support his hunch. Moreover, in the hall on that day, Su Yi had made no protestations of innocence, but had confessed to his guilt with no hesitation.

 CH 82

    As for Su Yi, after he had received treatment from Wanyan Xia, his condition indeed improved miraculously and he had yet to spit out another mouthful of blood. When he woke up at mid-morning, he felt that his body was feeling much more comfortable than before. The nausea and pain that had plagued him was almost totally gone. Zi Nong and the rest were relieved to see that he was on the mend, and after the medicinal decoction was sent up, Zi Nong served it to him.

 CH 83

The afternoon sun was hanging high up in the sky, radiating warm rays of light onto the lands. There was not even a trace of wind in the air; a day of warmth had finally been ushered in to break the monotony of this exceptionally cold winter.

 CH 84

    As Su Yi looked at the retreating figures of the two people, he couldn¡¯t help but to give a knowing smile as he said to Wanyan Xu: ¡°Looking at this pair of uncle and nephew, even though they are not related by blood at all, they have a warmer relationship than many other uncles and nephews that really have consanguinity. I have never seen Shuo Er become so stuck to someone''s side in this manner before.¡±

 CH 85

    Su Yi got a shock. Stunned, he raised his head and said: ¡°Wanyan, what has gotten into you?¡± Before his voice had even faded, Wanyan Xu had grabbed him into his embrace and was continually planting kisses all over his face. His eyes were lit up from within and were flashing with excitement. In a loud voice he cried out: ¡°Su Su did you hear that? The rabbit¡¯s broken leg has lengthened, the broken leg lengthened.¡±

 CH 86

    Ever since Wanyan Xia had saved Su Yi''s life, he had stopped residing in that shabby wooden structure by the side of the North Lake. Instead, Wanyan Xu had specially arranged for him to live in a small hall [1] to the side of the Garden of Merriment. One reason was that the locale made it more convenient for him to continue treating Su Yi''s illness; another reason is that the two could be considered old comrades who shared a bond that was forged through shared trials and tribulations; to alleviate boredom they could enjoy conversing with each other.

 CH 87

    In the Imperial Study, Wanyan Xu was sitting rigidly upon the Dragon Throne and Zi Yan was stationed behind him, ready to attend to his needs. In contrast, the terrified He Jian was standing below with beads of cold sweat constantly forming and dripping from his head. Only after a long time did he finally hear Wanyan Xu say in a deep voice: ¡°He... actually had the guts to be so bold?¡±

 CH 88

    Wanyan Xu and Zi Yan both jumped in fright, not knowing when or why Su Yi had returned after they had seen him leave. They turned, only to see Su Yi step out from behind the screen, with Zi Nong lending him an arm for support. When he saw Wanyan Xu, he gave a "humph" before saying in a displeased manner: ¡°You muddle-headed thing, don''t tell me that you will pay no mind to jurisprudence and care for nothing else but your personal feelings? To think that you cannot adjust even a little to accommodate changing circumstances. You can even treat your beloved servant so harshly, even when she did not commit any great crime in the final reckoning.¡±

 CH 89

    Soon after, He Jian entered into the room, after he had paid homage to the Imperial personages in the room he said: ¡°Reporting to Your Majesty, The guard we had apprehended who was in charge of securing the scholars is still refusing to make a confession but the scholars themselves have already told us the truth. They have confirmed that Honourable Minister Yu was behind the plot to frame the Empress; they even said that Honourable Minister Yu had personally led the operation to capture them. To prevent word from leaking out, he only brought along a few trusted aides. Although the number of scholars outnumbered them by many counts, they were all physically very weak and thus were helpless when faced with men who were well-versed in martial arts and were easily captured. Because General Yu has an elevated status, so this old minister has come to ask for Your Majesty''s instructions. Does Your Majesty wish to have the General arrested and brought in for questioning?¡±

 CH 90

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 CH 91

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 CH 92

    At night, the wind blew in strong gusts from the north, and gradually, pearls of snow began to drift down from the heavens. All of the palace maids and eunuchs in the palace had already withdrawn to have a rest, except for those who were dancing attendance upon their masters. In the entire sprawling palace complex, only a few lights were still shining and there was not a sound to be heard. For the denizens of the palace, this was a good night to delight in the joys to be found between their bed covers.

 CH 93

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 CH 94

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 CH 95

    After a long time, a smile lit up the whole of Wanyan Xu¡¯s face and he asked: ¡°You don¡¯t need to take medicine anymore?¡± Su Yi shook his head and said: ¡°Xia Er says that it has already healed, all I have to do now is to keep practicing walking.¡± And then he asked: ¡°How is the war going along the border? Whether it is good or bad, it is better that you tell me. It would save me from having to be consumed by anxiety and I won''t have to wonder about how the people are getting along.¡±

 CH 96

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 CH 97

War Prisoner Extra: The Boundless Colours of Spring [1]