Chapter 141: Murder in Public, Crown Prince Assassinated, Massive Army Aid, Gu Jin Nian Kills with Godlike Might

Indeed.

As long as any violation occurs or is about to occur, Su Huaiyu can arrive immediately.

Gu Jin Nian was curious; what exactly is this guy's background?

He always found him mysterious.

His strength, his strength, impossible to see through.

His background, background, hard to explain.

Anyway, he's very odd.

"Brother Su."

"Regarding Xu Jian's matter, please look after it, Brother Su. If necessary, after this imperial inspection ends, could you accompany him back to Nanwei County?"

Gu Jin Nian was still a bit worried about Xu Jian, so he hoped Su Huaiyu would go with him.

"Alright."

"But I have some matters to handle; it depends on the situation."

Su Huaiyu agreed.

"Thanks, sorry to trouble you, Brother Su."

After resolving this matter, Gu Jin Nian stopped nagging.

He went straight home.

This trip to the border still required explaining the situation to his family.

After returning to the residence, Gu Jin Nian brought up the matter with his father.

Gu Jin Nian's father was fine; after all, he had entered the court, serving as a senior official in the Ministry of Rites, and serving the nation was his duty.

Moreover, the destination was the border, and the old man was also there, so he wasn't worried about anything happening to Gu Jin Nian.

It was Gu Jin Nian's mother, Princess Ningyue, who was somewhat concerned.

Fortunately, after a proper explanation, the Li family understood and ultimately said nothing.

So it was.

That night, Gu Jin Nian rested well for a whole day.

For this border trip, he feared there would be little time to rest; it would be best to replenish his qi and spirit.

Meanwhile.

Da Xia Capital.

Inside the Xiang Residence.

The sky was ink‑black, starless, with a bright moon illuminating everything.

Li Shan stood quietly by the pond, pinching some fish bait in his hand and casually tossing it into the water.

At the same time.

A figure slowly emerged within the artificial rock garden.

"Xiang Ye."

"What is the outcome of this peace negotiation?"

A voice reached Li Shan's ears.

Upon hearing it, Li Shan's expression remained very calm.

"The Ministry of Personnel, Ministry of Revenue, and Ministry of Justice agree to the peace terms."

"The Ministry of War, Ministry of Works, and Ministry of Rites disagree."

"It is Gu Jin Nian."

"He stepped forward and firmly opposed the peace."

Li Shan relayed the message, expressionless.

"Then I ask Xiang Ye to step forward and resolve this."

"This peace negotiation is no trivial matter; it affects the whole situation."

The latter spoke, very seriously.

"I understand, no need for you to teach me."

"Tell the superiors to pressure Gu Jin Nian."

"When I step forward, just state what is needed."

Li Shan began slowly.

"Please, Xiang Ye, rest assured."

"By the way, Xiang Ye, there is another matter I hope you can resolve."

The latter opened his mouth, mentioning another issue.

"What matter?"

Li Shan asked.

"Lord Leng Qiu recently made a mistake, accidentally slaughtering an entire village's civilians."

"Please, Xiang Ye, intervene to suppress this matter; there is a local official named Xu Jian on this imperial inspection list."

"The prince is worried that Xu Jian will risk his life to remonstrate."

The latter spoke, bringing up this issue.

"Accidentally slaughtering a whole village's people?"

In an instant, Li Shan's brows tightened.

Though it was just a simple sentence, what lay behind it was far from simple.

Indeed, it was those troublemakers who first provoked Leng Qiu Gongzi.

However, the Prince has already reprimanded Leng Qiu Gongzi.

The latter spoke up, explaining to Li Shan.

Go back and tell the Prince.

This time, if it weren't for the greater good, this minister would absolutely not intervene to help.

Make him keep his son in check.

Nowadays, these are troubled times, and Gu Jin Nian is also here.

If Gu Jin Nian learns of this, then no one will be able to get away with it.

Li Shan's voice was ice-cold.

He was also somewhat angry.

Massacring a village of civilians—this is absolutely no trivial matter.

Fortunately, the news has not yet spread, especially Gu Jin Nian is unaware of it.

If Gu Jin Nian were to know, it would truly become troublesome.

Yes, sir.

The latter spoke up and directly agreed.

As the figure faded away.

Li Shan's gaze also grew somewhat complex.

Thus.

The next day.

Da Xia Capital.

The Ministry of Rites had already prepared carriages, accompanied by five hundred elite soldiers, escorting Gu Jin Nian and his two companions.

At this very moment.

Inside the Duke of the State's residence.

Gu Jin Nian handed his secret order to Wang Peng and the other.

Wang Peng, you must ensure Xu Jian's safety; if any accident occurs, report it immediately.

Xu Jin, you will accompany the Heir to the border; bring a hundred elite troops.

Gu Jin Nian spoke, gazing at Wang Peng and Xu Jin before him.

The two of them have been serving in the Duke's residence all this time, and only after I am ennobled as a marquis will they be allotted as my private troops.

I, the subordinate, obey your orders.

The two spoke up, directly agreeing.

Thus, after waiting a quarter hour, Gu Jin Nian left the Duke's residence, with Xu Jin following behind, leading a hundred elite troops.

All the way to the outskirts of the capital, three carriages had already been prepared—two for Li Shan and Yang Kai, while Gu Jin Nian rode in the jade carriage, which is part of the imperial regalia.

From this moment, the earlier bestowal becomes evident: officials of the Six Ministries and the incumbent premier may not travel by jade carriage, but Gu Jin Nian can.

Therefore, whatever the emperor's grant, it is certainly not insignificant.

Your Highness, the Heir.

Upon seeing Gu Jin Nian approach, Yang Kai smiled slightly and warmly greeted him.

I have seen you, Minister Yang.

Gu Jin Nian offered his respects, then glanced at Li Shan and said, 'I have seen you, Minister Li.'

Although our opinions differed yesterday, the proper courtesies must still be observed.

Li Shan merely nodded, saying nothing further.

This trip to the border will take at least four days; the Ministry of Rites has already arranged with the various states to reconvene in six days—if the talks go well, the negotiations will conclude and we can return in time for the Spring Yuan Festival.

I hope we don't waste too much time, lest we delay the auspicious day for the Heir's ennoblement.

Yang Kai laughed and spoke.

If we can recover the twelve cities, that will be the best auspicious day.

Gu Jin Nian spoke calmly, a single sentence making his intention clear.

Mm.

Yang Kai said nothing more and went to his own carriage.

And Gu Jin Nian also entered his jade carriage.

Thus.

The party set out, heading straight from the official road to Da Xia's northwest border.

All along, yellow sand rolled.

Vast yellow sand swept the heavens.

Meanwhile.

Xiongnu State.

Fuluo Minister of Rites.

Great Jin Minister of Rites.

All three gathered in the royal court.

The Ministers of Rites of the three great dynasties, together with the Xiongnu king, were holding secret discussions.

A secret report has arrived: the Da Xia dynasty is dissatisfied with this round of negotiations—what do you all think?

The Xiongnu Minister of Rites spoke, looking at the assembly and saying thus.

Dissatisfaction is quite normal.

This peace negotiation itself isn't for these conditions.

As long as the Da Xia Dynasty is willing to amend the histories and allow the Buddhist sect to enter, the rest is no problem.

The Great Jin Minister of Rites spoke; he cared not about silver or mines, only about these two matters.

"Regarding compensation for the mines, the Fuyu Dynasty will grant it to the sovereign."

"As for the silver, the Great Jin will handle it."

The Fuyu Minister of Rites spoke up.

The conditions the Xiongnu Nation desires are nothing but silver, mines, amending the histories, and the Da Xia Dragon Cannon.

Now the Great Jin Dynasty handles the silver, the Fuyu Dynasty handles the mines, and regarding the Da Xia Dragon Cannon, none of those present have any thoughts on it.

"Very well, but I have another request: outside the twelve border cities, establish a defensive line as a handover point for the territory. What do you all think?"

The Xiongnu King spoke, putting forward this request.

At those words, the envoys of the two great dynasties frowned slightly.

That Xiongnu King is truly greedy.

At present, the Xiongnu Nation has had its fortune reduced three times, so theoretically it is at a disadvantage; that alone is one thing, but the Da Xia Dynasty's morale is soaring, they came to erase past humiliation, so their morale is certainly far higher than that of the Xiongnu soldiers.

Therefore, in this slaughter, without the participation of the Fuyu and Great Jin dynasties, the Xiongnu Nation's chance of winning is only thirty percent.

As for national fortune, it's hard to describe; if luck holds and nothing untoward occurs, a conventional war is easy to discuss, but if real problems arise—

For example, mid‑battle a fire‑stone might fall and crush the Xiongnu iron cavalry.

If that happens, the Xiongnu Nation would have no chance at all.

In such a situation, even if the Da Xia Dynasty gives nothing, this peace talk still benefits the Xiongnu Nation.

After all, returning the twelve cities eases tensions between the dynasties, and as a nation of propriety, one cannot act recklessly.

If they dare act rashly, the Fuyu and Great Jin dynasties will not stand by.

What was unexpected is that the Xiongnu Nation is indeed so greedy.

They demand eighty million taels of silver, a hundred iron mines, the Da Xia Dragon Cannon, and the amendment of histories; now they even want to establish a defensive line.

If this were a proper peace negotiation, setting up that line would be reasonable, but now you demand so many benefits? What are you thinking? The Ministers of Rites of the two great dynasties fell silent, exchanged a glance, and understood each other's meaning.

The scene fell quiet.

And the Xiongnu Nation's Minister of Rites could not help but speak.

"Gentlemen, the Xiongnu Nation's defensive line is for the greater picture; after all, who knows if the Da Xia Dynasty might invade us next?"

"If the Xiongnu Nation were occupied, even with aid from the two dynasties, it would be a settled matter. The line is erected for peace in the Eastern Wilderness."

"We hope you both can think it over."

He spoke, his words grandiose.

Yet his words are not entirely without merit.

"We will inform the superiors; it should not be a big problem."

"Alright, establishing the line is fine; I suppose if the silver, mines, and Dragon Cannon were cancelled, the Da Xia Dynasty would agree."

The two nodded, saying little.

Because they have their own goals, focusing on mediation.

Having secured the Ministers of Rites' promise, the Xiongnu King couldn't help but smile.

However, the Fuyu envoy spoke, bringing up another matter.

"I hear the Crown Prince Gu Jin Nian is also coming; everyone, be on guard."

The Fuyu envoy's voice gradually quieted the great hall.

No one showed such an expression when someone arrived.

But Gu Jin Nian was different, for he truly is a man of many variables.

"No matter, what can a mere Gu Jin Nian amount to? His achievements in Confucianism and Daoism are indeed impressive, but matters of state are beyond a child's meddling."

"This time, the Da Xia Emperor sent Gu Jin Nian forward merely to let him earn a few merits; how could he handle the peace talks?"

"Minister of Rites Yang Kai holds the final decision, but it's best not to provoke Gu Jin Nian; just negotiate with the Da Xia Chancellor and Da Xia Minister of Rites."

The Great Jin Minister of Rites spoke; his meaning was simple: do not slight Gu Jin Nian, and certainly do not provoke him.

After all, anyone who provokes Gu Jin Nian meets a bad end.

"Indeed, it's best not to provoke Gu Jin Nian."

"Let him earn a bit of experience; we can simply ignore what he says."

"Indeed, ignore Gu Jin Nian; he has no way to act."

The group spoke, then unanimously decided to ignore Gu Jin Nian.

Soon, they resumed discussing other matters.

In the blink of an eye.

Two and a half days passed.

In the northwestern frontier, endless yellow sand.

The sky was also about to darken.

The main force still sped along the official road.

During these two and a half days, Gu Jin Nian mostly stayed in the jade carriage, immersing himself in study.

Occasionally stopping at a relay station to rest, he would chat a few words with Yang Kai, but Li Shan never exchanged anything with him.

It felt a bit aloof.

As for that, Gu Jin Nian didn't care.

I don't expect Li Shan to develop any goodwill toward me; I just need to do my part.

"Ugh!"

As the leading soldiers halted their horses, Xu Jin's voice quickly rang out outside the jade carriage.

"Your Highness, the Crown Prince, we've arrived at Longzhong County relay station; you may dismount and rest for a while."

Xu Jin's voice sounded.

Inside the jade carriage, Gu Jin Nian rose at once and stepped down from the carriage.

After getting off the car.

A sense of desolation swept over me; Da Xia Capital is the most bustling place, and even after leaving the capital, there are still many common folk coming and going, with mountains, rivers, and trees that look aesthetically pleasing.

But this northwestern region is overwhelmingly barren; there may be dozens of miles without a single tree, giving a feeling of utter bleakness.

The wind and sand swirl.

Gu Jin Nian stepped down from the jade carriage, and the relay station officials promptly came to greet him.

After alighting from the jade carriage, Gu Jin Nian walked toward the relay station alongside the Minister of Rites.

Longzhong Relay Station appears quite ordinary; inside there are three fine horses, a tavern and inn, offering only basic lodging.

Everything else is unremarkable.

Entering the relay station, the main hall has a dozen or so tables with a few people; most are itinerant martial folk or some merchants.

Watching Gu Jin Nian and his party enter, each of these people looked on with curiosity.

Elite soldiers marched ahead, shielding the group, their faces cold, causing the onlookers to dare not stare.

Meanwhile, the relay station officials respectfully led the way ahead.

"Lord Yang, I'll just walk around outside the relay station, so I won't need a meal."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He doesn't intend to dine; this relay station has nothing tasty, so it's better to walk outside and appreciate the stark beauty of this northwestern desolation.

Hearing this, Yang Kai nodded and said,

"Men, dispatch an additional three hundred elite troops to protect the Crown Prince."

Yang Kai spoke.

He isn't worried about any assassination; this place isn't far from the northwestern frontier—say it bluntly, another thousand li or so and you'll reach the northwestern great camp.

The Lord of State Protection is there.

If anyone truly dared to attack the Crown Prince, five hundred thousand garrison troops could traverse the entire northwestern region ten times over.

There's no fear of failing to find the assassin.

If the assassin is powerful, even staying at the relay station wouldn't allow escape.

Moreover, who can guarantee that the Da Xia Emperor hasn't secretly assigned someone to protect Gu Jin Nian? Indeed.

Gu Jin Nian left the inn, while Xu Jin and others kept a tight guard around him, appearing extremely serious and unwilling to be careless.

The barren red earth stretches, yellow sand fills the sky; as far as the eye can see, an ancient sorrow seems to strike in an instant.

The whistling wind sounds, as if one could hear the ancient road's echo from ten thousand years ago.

One must admit, when desolation reaches its extreme, it evokes a different feeling.

Gazing at the towering mountains, measured in millions of years, one momentarily feels the passage of ages and humanity's insignificance.

Not far from the relay station stands an abandoned city wall, overgrown with weeds, looking dreadfully desolate.

Gu Jin Nian walked toward the ruined city, with the soldiers behind him following one by one.

"Your Highness, this place is the gate of Longzhong Prefecture of the State of Chu; after the founding emperor unified the ten kingdoms, it became completely barren, with settlements fifty li away, though the ruined city still contains a few villages with few inhabitants."

The relay station official spoke, introducing the site to Gu Jin Nian.

These are only fragments of the broken wall; looking back, there are indeed some abandoned structures—ruins from the past—generally uninhabited, though some destitute peasants, lacking better options, make do.

Moreover, this place is only one prefecture away from Nan Wei County; if the peace talks weren't crucial, Gu Jin Nian would actually prefer to visit Nan Wei County.

Of course, that's just a thought.

At this moment.

Looking at this scenery, Gu Jin Nian felt inspired.

"The lone city rises with white clouds, ancient desolation spreads west over Chu's waters."

Standing atop the wall, Gu Jin Nian softly recited a line of poetry; he didn't finish the whole poem, merely expressing his feeling.

It is a poem by Liu Changqing, which at this moment fits his mood.

He finished the verse.

The soldiers couldn't help but show astonishment in their eyes.

Xu Jin spoke again.

"Well, this poem is truly wonderful."

Xu Jin voiced his praise loudly.

"Oh? General Xu also knows poetry?"

Hearing Xu Jin's voice, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but smile, looking at Xu Jin and asking thus.

"I, the junior general, do not understand."

"But everyone says the Crown Prince is a banished immortal of the poetry world, and every line he utters is excellent."

Xu Jin sneered.

He's just a general; how could he possibly understand poetry and prose? Yet he can't deny that Gu Jin Nian's literary talent is indeed impressive; it sounds truly formidable.

"General Xu, do you have a wife or household?"

Gu Jin Nian asked, as such.

"Yes, they're about to be born right now."

Xu Jin didn't understand why Gu Jin Nian asked that, but he still answered truthfully.

"I, the Crown Prince, will open an academy in the future; when your child is born it will fit perfectly, so later let them come study with me—gender doesn't matter."

Gu Jin Nian said lightly.

Upon hearing that, Xu Jin's eyes widened instantly, his pupils dilated, looking unusually excited, and even his breathing became a bit rapid.

"Crown Prince, this… this is absolutely forbidden; my descendants lack such blessings."

Xu Jin was indeed shocked.

Who doesn't know that Gu Jin Nian is a later saint of Confucianism and Dao? If a figure like him were to teach Confucianism, even if he doesn't become a Great Scholar, at least getting a recommendation would be easy, right?

As a soldier, he understood even more the importance of studying; only scholars can become rulers. Though they are called generals, the real decision‑making power still isn't in the scholars' hands? Naturally, he was excited but also a bit fearful.

"Since you're one of the Crown Prince's people, when the academy is established in the future, you won't be treated poorly."

"The same goes for all of you; those who follow the Crown Prince, when the academy opens, your children, if they meet the criteria, can be admitted directly."

Gu Jin Nian wasn't trying to buy hearts; he was merely voicing his thoughts.

Indeed.

When he said that, the soldiers each became extremely excited, and those who weren't Gu Jin Nian's attendants at that moment felt immense envy.

"Your Humble General thanks you, Crown Prince."

"We thank you, Crown Prince."

Everyone opened their mouths together, too excited to speak.

"Let's go."

He took a deep breath, glanced once more at the desolate scenery, and Gu Jin Nian rose to leave.

The soldiers followed behind.

But at that moment,

a voice suddenly rang out.

"Be careful."

It was a soldier's voice; he stared into the distance, his gaze like an eagle's.

With that voice echoing,

In an instant, the soldiers drew their swords, murderous aura surging; especially Xu Jin stood before Gu Jin Nian, his eyes icy as he scanned the surroundings, ready to strike at the slightest movement.

Gu Jin Nian also looked toward the distance.

Very far, at least a kilometer; if this place weren't a boundless wasteland, any grass or trees would be impossible to see clearly.

It was a woman.

She wore plain clothes, but they were extremely tattered, her hair in disarray, a terrified expression as she rushed toward here.

Behind her, dozens of figures on warhorses were in pursuit.

"Hurry and rescue her."

Gu Jin Nian didn't waste words and spoke directly.

He ordered Xu Jin to go save her.

"Understood."

Xu Jin didn't dawdle either; he led twenty men forward, and though they lacked warhorses, they were top‑tier warriors, sprinting at great speed.

However, before Xu Jin and his men could reach,

the pursuers behind the woman had already arrived; this group seemed to have seen Gu Jin Nian and the others, and in an instant they brandished their swords, intent on killing.

"How audacious."

The next moment, Gu Jin Nian's voice thundered, wielding righteous qi.

The latter were clearly hindered.

But being a kilometer apart, the effect wasn't especially great.

Poof.

A great sword slashed down.

It instantly cut down the fleeing woman, killing her.

Then they didn't hesitate at all and turned to run.

On the city wall.

Gu Jin Nian stared at it all, his eyes filled with astonishment.

How dare they kill outright? That's too arrogant! "Men, capture them all."

"Leave none behind."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, without a single wasted word.

This is too overbearing.

He had always heard of the phrase "treating lives as grass," but when he truly witnessed this scene, his inner anger exploded.

At once, hundreds of elite troops were dispatched, riding straight to the relay station to give chase.

The elite soldiers far away were extremely shrewd; as soon as someone was slain, they would run away instantly, leaving no chance.

They seemed to know that Gu Jin Nian and his party weren't mere small figures.

Soon, Xu Jin returned, standing beneath the city wall.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, the woman is dead, her attire is in disarray; she appears to be a local civilian."

"The assailants have already fled, but your Humble General observed closely; they are soldiers, yet they aren't bearing any banners, uncertain whose subordinates they are."

"Shall we continue the pursuit?"

Xu Jin asked.

"Dispatch all elite troops to continue the pursuit; this Crown Prince is waiting for your news at the relay station."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He simultaneously handed his secret order to another soldier beside him, saying,

"Rush to the nearby barracks and send an additional three thousand elite soldiers forward."

Gu Jin Nian's expression turned cold, especially upon hearing that the woman had already been killed; his gaze was filled with murderous intent.

"Understood."

The latter said no more and immediately led men to fetch reinforcements.

At once, Gu Jin Nian headed toward the relay station, his face icy.

After arriving at the relay station,

Minister of Rites Yang Kai and Chancellor Li Shan had also been alerted; after being asked what had happened, both showed slight changes in expression and waited here for Gu Jin Nian.

When Gu Jin Nian returned, Yang Kai's voice rang out immediately. "Your Highness the Crown Prince, what has occurred?"

Yang Kai's face showed some puzzlement.

"A soldier committed murder in public."

"But the culprit has fled; I will dispatch elite troops to investigate."

Gu Jin Nian replied briefly.

"Such a thing actually happened?"

"Do we know which barracks it was?"

Yang Kai couldn't help but frown.

"Unclear."

"We must wait here for news."

Gu Jin Nian shook his head; he did not know whose subordinate this was, so they could only wait here for information.

"Very well."

Yang Kai nodded, agreeing with Gu Jin Nian's decision.

However, Li Shan, standing nearby, could not help but speak.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, I deeply resent this incident, but the peace talks are of utmost importance."

"Perhaps we should leave a detachment to investigate, and after the peace talks conclude, return to handle it?"

Li Shan spoke; this was his suggestion.

Although he did not know why such an incident suddenly arose, he thought the dead could only be some arrogant soldiers or reckless generals.

They could simply turn back and kill them; there is no need to stay here waiting deliberately.

The peace talks are the most important matter.

"No."

"I, this Crown Prince, will not tolerate such a vile occurrence."

"Moreover, I witnessed it myself."

"What about those who did not see it?"

Gu Jin Nian looked at Li Shan; his temperament was exactly that—no grain of sand could be tolerated in his eyes.

"This"

Li Shan fell silent for a moment, said nothing more, and simply returned to the relay station to wait.

And so.

About three hours passed.

Still, no news arrived.

The sky was growing late.

This time, Li Shan emerged from the relay station once more.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince."

"If we delay further, we may jeopardize the peace talks schedule."

"The peace talks are Da Xia's most important matter at present."

"If Your Highness the Crown Prince insists on staying here, I will proceed to the border first, lest other nations accuse Da Xia of disrespecting propriety."

Li Shan spoke again.

But this time he spoke in a commanding tone rather than consulting Gu Jin Nian.

Hearing Li Shan's words, Gu Jin Nian gave him a glance.

Nevertheless, Li Shan was not wrong; the peace talks are a national affair, and what Gu Jin Nian faced today pales in comparison in others' eyes.

Only in Gu Jin Nian's view, there was nothing to compare with.

He took a deep breath.

Gu Jin Nian gave his answer.

"As you wish."

Those two light words gave Li Shan free rein; after all, even if it's about the peace talks, without him the talks could not be concluded.

Hearing this, Li Shan did not linger and set off with his troops.

"Minister Yang, you should go as well; I will remain here."

Of course, Gu Jin Nian would never let Li Shan go alone; Li Shan belongs to the pro‑peace faction, and sending him off would be like kneeling to reclaim the Twelve Cities.

That was not the outcome he wanted to see.

"So, Crown Prince, you?"

Yang Kai was actually also willing to wait, but Li Shan was not wrong; it's just that he was still more worried about Gu Jin Nian.

No matter what happens next, if he is there, everything will be easy.

"No need to worry about me."

"Minister Yang, no matter what, before I arrive, no decisions may be made."

"His Majesty should have told you, right?"

Gu Jin Nian sent a martial transmission, looking at Yang Kai.

That day, the Great Emperor Yongsheng left Minister of Rites Yang Kai behind, and Gu Jin Nian guessed what he wanted to say.

Now he just needed to confirm it.

Yang Kai gave no reply, but nodded, putting Gu Jin Nian at ease.

"Sir Yang, stay vigilant on the way."

Gu Jin Nian's words were brief.

Yang Kai glanced at Gu Jin Nian, then finally left together with Li Shan.

According to the original plan, they should have set out long ago; a delay of three hours was nothing, but the worry was about continuing to wait.

That indeed wasn't good.

After the two departed.

Inside the post station, only Gu Jin Nian and a hundred elite guards remained for close protection.

And at this very moment.

Fifty li away.

In a village.

Here, thousands of elite troops gathered, encircling Xu Jin and others.

Among the crowd, a pale‑faced man sat on a horse, his eyes heavy with weight.

He hadn't expected to encounter Gu Jin Nian himself.

"Crown Prince."

"Identity has been verified; indeed, he is the grandson of the Duke of Zhen Guo, a man of Gu Jin Nian."

A soldier stepped before the young man, his expression somewhat solemn.

And this youth was the son of Prince Ning.

Li Lengxin.

"Gu Jin Nian."

Li Lengxin inhaled deeply; he had heard of Gu Jin Nian's name.

Both of us are royalty; how could Li Lengxin not know Gu Jin Nian's great name? "Crown Prince, what shall we do?"

The soldiers below spoke up, asking Li Lengxin what to do. Looking at it all, Li Lengxin couldn't help but take another deep breath.

The Prince Ning residence had an intrusion, stealing military secrets, and he was also conducting a search by royal command.

He had passed by here by chance yesterday and did something he shouldn't have; ordinarily, he would just let it be.

But he didn't expect to be caught by Gu Jin Nian.

That is very bad.

He had heard of who Gu Jin Nian was—a man who avenges the people; if Gu learns of his deeds, he fears he won't be let off easily.

But he wasn't afraid; after all, though he had erred, he was still royalty, and Gu Jin Nian could do nothing to him, as his father protected him, and in the Western Territory he feared no danger.

What he feared most wasn't this, but that Gu Jin Nian would use this incident to attack his father.

A few days earlier he had heard that His Majesty sent the Duke of Zhen Guo to confront the Xiongnu, yet did not send his own father, which was clearly an intention to suppress his father.

If Gu Jin Nian were to blow the matter out of proportion, the consequences would be unimaginable.

"Send someone to investigate covertly how many people are around Gu Jin Nian."

Li Lengxin spoke, issuing this order.

Soon, a light cavalry set off swiftly.

About half a shi later.

The light cavalry returned in a flash.

"Crown Prince, secret investigation: the post station has few soldiers, at most not exceeding a hundred."

A voice sounded.

At this moment.

In Li Lengxin's mind, a bold idea surfaced.

Kill to silence.

Yes.

Kill to silence.

He had done such things many times, but this was the first time he faced someone whose status was not inferior to his.

The thought emerged.

Li Lengxin also hesitated and wrestled with himself.

He knew Gu Jin Nian's status was not inferior to his, and he was favored by the Holy Grace.

If he truly killed Gu Jin Nian, a great disaster would surely follow.

But he also knew that if he didn't kill Gu Jin Nian, his father would face a major incident, and the emperor might strip him of military command.

About a quarter‑hour later.

Li Lingshin's voice rang out.

"Come."

"Dispatch four thousand Iron Cavalry to encircle and annihilate everyone at the post station."

"This crown prince was ordered to investigate a traitorous spy; this crown prince does not know he is Gu Jin Nian."

"This crown prince only knows that it is better to kill the wrong person than to let him go."

"Do you understand?"

Li Lingshin spoke; in the end he hardened his heart, bold because he had done many things, including countless massacres of civilians.

Killing Gu Jin Nian truly makes one's heart race.

Yet for the greater good of Gu, he must kill.

Otherwise, when Gu Jin Nian comes after him, that will be real trouble.

"Crown Prince."

"This may be somewhat improper, right?"

Yet the attendants and soldiers who heard this changed expression instantly.

This is Gu Jin Nian, after all.

"There is nothing improper."

"If he does not die, the unlucky one will be my father, the king."

"Stop babbling; if anything happens, this crown prince assumes full responsibility."

Li Lingshin swallowed a mouthful of saliva; he also knew how terrifying his decision was, but he had to do it.

As long as Gu Jin Nian dies, he will only face a severe punishment, but within the Western Border, no one, not even Han, can escape him.

Even if the Lord of the State commands five hundred thousand troops, he is not afraid, because the Ning Prince Residence has two hundred thousand Black Water Iron Cavalry, unafraid of the Lord of the State.

"Yes."

Receiving the absolute order, the latter did not dare to babble, directly pointing the troops to encircle Gu Jin Nian.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, what about these people?"

Another person spoke, pointing at Xu Jin and others, asking.

"Do not kill them first."

"Also, prepare a foolproof plan: if Gu Jin Nian cannot be killed, release them; moreover, seize all the children of this village, threaten them, and make them keep silent."

"If Gu Jin Nian dies, let these people die together, and claim that Gu Jin Nian's men randomly slaughtered the innocent."

"Go!"

Li Lingshin spoke; he was bold, yet he also prepared an escape route for himself.

Quickly, the army departed, hurrying toward the post station.

Li Lingshin watched the army, his heart extremely tense.

Killing Gu Jin Nian would bring trouble.

Not killing Gu Jin Nian would cause even greater trouble.

Therefore, he hopes Gu Jin Nian can die.

Although the two have no grudges, Gu Jin Nian likes to champion the people, and he happened to witness his deeds.

Li Lingshin initially considered having someone take the blame, but he knew deep down that taking or not taking the blame was meaningless, because he feared Gu Jin Nian would use this incident to criticize his father, the king.

Thus.

At the same time.

Inside the post station.

Dawn was about to break.

Xu Jin and the others have not returned yet.

This is not a good sign; it is likely that Xu Jin and the others have encountered trouble.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince."

"General Xu has not returned; I fear he may have encountered some danger."

"Your Highness the Crown Prince, perhaps we should escort you away first; if there truly is danger, you can go to the northwestern frontier and request reinforcements from the Lord."

"If no danger is encountered, General Xu can handle it; staying here now only risks danger."

Someone spoke, sensing something amiss, hoping Gu Jin Nian would leave quickly.

Xu Jin's prolonged absence surely means a problem has arisen.

Whether Xu Jin is in trouble or not is irrelevant; they worry that Gu Jin Nian will be in trouble.

"No, we will wait here."

Gu Jin Nian understood the principle that a gentleman does not stand beneath a dangerous wall, yet he was not without resources; regardless of whether his uncle had secretly sent protectors.

Even if not, a demonic cultivator willing to act for him three times would not believe any danger could arise.

Seeing persuasion fail, the soldiers said little more, though they remained somewhat nervous.

About half an hour later.

Finally, a figure rushed into the post station.

"Report."

"Enemy attack."

The voice sounded panicked, looking at Gu Jin Nian, it said.

Hearing the words "enemy attack".

The soldiers instantly perked up, their eyes full of vigilance, even the bows and crossbows were already set up.

"What enemy attack?"

The soldier beside Gu Jin Nian spoke, asking him.

"Unclear, but a large army is coming, not General Xu Jin and his men."

"Moreover, they come in a raging force, at least several thousand iron cavalry, rushing toward the post station."

The latter also didn't know how to answer, but could be sure it wasn't Xu Jin and the others.

"Escort the Crown Prince away."

The attendant said no more, speaking directly: they will escort Gu Jin Nian out, regardless of whether Gu Jin Nian agrees or not.

"It's too late."

"The army has already surrounded us."

"Quickly launch the signal fire."

A voice sounded from outside the post station.

Hearing that, a soldier immediately came to the rear yard and released the signal fire.

But the instant he released it, an arrow feather whooshed, tearing through the air, directly piercing his palm; blood spurted instantly, and he let out a scream.

Clack clack clack clack.

In an instant, all the post station's doors were sealed, and a group of soldiers stood guard right beside Gu Jin Nian, holding weapons.

Some soldiers cautiously ambushed on the left and right behind the doors.

"Brothers, at all costs, protect the Crown Prince."

"If the Crown Prince suffers any injury, we too shall not expect to return alive."

A voice rang out.

It was a deputy commander, who knew clearly that no matter what danger they faced, only if Gu Jin Nian survived would they have a chance to survive.

If Gu Jin Nian cannot survive, then none of them can hope to return alive.

Even if this matter doesn't concern you, don't think you'll return alive.

Inside the post station.

Gu Jin Nian's expression was icy.

These guys are really ferocious, saying nothing, daring to act outright.

At this moment, Gu Jin Nian held a token in his hand, ready to crush it at any time.

Outside the post station.

Indeed, a massive crowd of soldiers gathered, each clad in armor and iron masks, kicking up sand several zhang high.

They were densely packed, looking like four to five thousand elite.

This is no small force.

"Northwest border, secret military documents lost; by royal decree, capture the traitorous spy, leave no survivors, only the secret military documents."

A deep voice rang out.

Carrying cold intent and murderous intent.

In an instant, all soldiers drew their bows; a terrifying killing aura enveloped the entire inn.

"We are the Da Xia Heavenly Feather Army; the Crown Prince Gu Jin Nian is inside the post station, you all do not misunderstand."

A voice sounded from inside the inn, attempting to negotiate with the other side.

Whoosh.

Whoosh.

Whoosh.

Dozens of arrow feathers whooshed through the air, directly piercing the speaker.

At this moment, everyone held their breath.

They knew the other side was clearly intending to kill.

That is truly bold.

"Beast."

Gu Jin Nian roared in his heart; the next moment, he would crush the jade token and summon a demonic cultivator.

But at that moment.

Roars rang out from outside.

"You dare! You actually injured the Da Xia Crown Prince."

"Lay down your weapons, or face death without mercy."

"Such audacity, do you want to die?"

The voice roared, echoing from afar; terrifying hoofbeats sounded, deafening.

At this moment, all elite soldiers inside the inn exhaled deeply.

Reinforcements arrived.

Fortunately, Gu Jin Nian had previously arranged for reinforcements, so now it's fine.

"Kill the spy!"

However, the outside voice sounded again, and the soldiers inside the inn each changed expression.

At this moment, a terrifying rain of arrows shot toward the post station; even with reinforcements, they still intended to kill.

Obviously they knew who was inside; they had the nerve to try to kill Gu Jin Nian.

But as the arrow rain pierced the rooms.

A figure burst out from a guest room in the post station, smashing the railing, a terrifying martial force sweeping the inn, all the arrow rain instantly blocked outside.

Ding—ding—ding.

A crisp iron‑arrow thud on the ground rang out.

This is a martial king.

A martial king has arrived.

"You are bold."

"How dare you assassinate the Crown Prince."

The old man entered, roared loudly, and intimidated all the soldiers outside.

"His Highness the Crown Prince."

"I am Qian Wei, acting on His Majesty's order to covertly protect the Crown Prince. If any alarm occurs, I beg Your Highness the Crown Prince to pardon me."

Qian Wei spoke.

He, in a green robe, bowed respectfully toward Gu Jin Nian.

"You're too kind, senior. Thank you for stepping in."

Gu Jin Nian breathed a sigh of relief; his uncle was indeed sensible. If no one had been sent to protect him, Gu Jin Nian would have scolded his uncle upon returning.

Outside the post station.

The iron cavalry fell silent at once, and the leading officer gave a displeased look before letting out a long sigh.

Failed.

"Dismount! Surrender your troops."

Soon, a massive force arrived, surrounding the four thousand iron cavalry. Leading them was a great general whose voice thundered, ordering the men to dismount.

"Dismount!"

The latter, knowing they had failed, said nothing and ordered the soldiers to dismount; obedience was the safest choice, lest disaster strike.

After the dismount, reinforcements entered and seized them; after half an hour of back‑and‑forth, the group finally stood outside the post station.

"Changshan Camp, defending general, Li Long has arrived to rescue His Highness the Crown Prince."

"The enemy forces are under control; please give orders, Your Highness the Crown Prince."

This is the Changshan Army, about four hundred li away.

They are Gu Jin Nian's men, arriving with a secret order; the Changshan Army's Li Long knew who they were. Upon hearing of the incident, he wasted no words and brought ten thousand iron cavalry, daring not to delay a moment.

He feared any mishap.

If nothing went wrong, bringing ten thousand men himself would still be a statement.

If a mishap occurred, it would be a failure of rescue, not to mention how His Majesty would punish him.

The Duke of the State lies just six hundred li from his camp.

His whole family could not hope for peace, which is why he acted so urgently.

Fortunately, they were subdued.

Squeak.

The post station's gate opened.

Gu Jin Nian stood before the crowd, with the martial king Qian Wei at his side.

"Thank you for your effort, General Li."

Gu Jin Nian stood with his hands behind his back, offered a thanks, then fixed his gaze on another group of soldiers.

His stare was ice‑cold.

The leading officer had already been bound with thick ropes; under Gu Jin Nian's gaze, the Changshan Army immediately escorted the man forward.

"Please pardon us, Your Highness the Crown Prince."

"I, the junior officer, was unaware you were the Crown Prince; the camp's secrets were stolen by enemy spies."

"I was following the king's orders; had I known you were the Crown Prince, I would never have acted thus."

The latter knelt, not panicking but earnestly explaining.

He tried to lessen the impact this way.

"Guards, dismember this man."

"Anyone who acted earlier, behead them all."

Gu Jin Nian did not waste words; his face was icy as he gave the order.

He ignored the explanation entirely.

A three‑year‑old child daring to assassinate him? Then pay the price.

"Your Highness the Crown Prince."

"I was merely obeying the king's command; I truly did not know it was you."

Hearing the order to dismember, the latter finally panicked.

He knew misfortune awaited, but he did not expect Gu Jin Nian to be so ferocious.

He ordered dismemberment outright, giving no chance to explain.

He even thought that after being captured, Gu Jin Nian would surely seek his superiors.

After locating his superiors, they would argue, and at most he would lose his post and receive a military flogging.

Ignorance is no crime.

He never imagined Gu Jin Nian could be so brutal.

Yet, no matter how he shouted,

These soldiers cared little, seized him, and dragged him away for dismemberment.

"Wait a moment."

The next moment, Gu Jin Nian spoke again.

"Don't kill him yet; later, in front of his superior, I'll slice him to pieces."

Gu Jin Nian changed his mind.

Behind these people, there must be an important figure; I'll later bring this person and slaughter them in front of the opposing side.

Moreover, at this moment, Gu Jin Nian is utterly filled with killing intent.

Later, no matter who it is.

No matter how great his background is.

Even if he is a prince.

Gu Jin Nian will also kill him.

Even if the emperor himself pleads for mercy, Gu Jin Nian will still kill him.

"General Li Long."

"Ride at full speed to the border and inform the Duke who guards the state."

"Just say that the heir apparent has been assassinated."

Gu Jin Nian's voice rang out, and then he mounted a war horse and continued speaking.

"Lead the way."

He stared at these assassins, his voice ice-cold.

He wants to see which immortal dares to issue such an order.

Meanwhile, everyone couldn't help but swallow their saliva.

They could tell that Gu Jin Nian was truly furious.

What's more, something major is about to happen.

(End of chapter)