Chapter 180: Zhu Quan: Brother Zhu! Zhu Ying: Brother Zhu Quan!

A single day passed in the blink of an eye!

The great battle had ended.

Troops within the city were already handling cleanup and erasing traces of the battlefield.

Nightfall quietly descended.

Zhu Ying finished his patrol within the city and returned to the Danning Border Army camp.

Inside the camp!

The vast parade ground.

Soldiers sat gathered in groups, lively and boisterous.

“Oh wow!”

One soldier exclaimed excitedly: “Today the cooks really went all out—there’s mutton!”

Following his gaze.

A whole lamb roasted over a bonfire, its aroma thick and rich.

“Haha, we’re eating our fill tonight!”

Another soldier chimed in, equally thrilled.

“Brothers, eat your fill tonight! This is General’s special request to the Grand General for us.”

“We were the first to breach the Yuan capital—first blood! This is the Grand General’s reward to us!”

“It’s been so long since we tasted meat—finally we can eat our fill…”

Across the parade ground, countless bonfires blazed, illuminating the entire area.

On the fires roasted whole lambs—and even beef, forbidden under Great Ming law.

These were spoils captured from the city, now permitted as feast fare under Guo Ying’s granted authority.

After all!

The former Yuan capital and captured northern Yuan cities remain under military control, not yet handed to civil administration; Great Ming law has not yet been fully enforced.

This northern campaign crushed the Northern Yuan and yielded immense spoils—countless cattle and sheep captured.

The entire Danning Border Army parade ground reeked of rich meat, stoking the soldiers’ appetites.

Many soldiers, overjoyed, devoured meat while shouting and laughing, their cheers rising and falling like waves.

Unfortunately, since the northern campaign was not yet complete, alcohol was forbidden to preserve discipline and combat readiness; soldiers could only revel in the sheer joy of eating meat.

On the central command platform, Zhu Ying strode up, scanned the troops below, then shouted: “Brothers!”

His voice rang out beneath the night sky, piercing through the noise and instantly silencing the entire parade ground.

Tens of thousands of Danning Border Army soldiers turned toward Zhu Ying on the platform, every eye filled with fervor and reverence.

For every soldier of the Danning Border Army, years of campaigning under Zhu Ying had made him a god of war in their hearts—the very soul of their army.

Over these years, the Danning Border Army marched through Liaodong, crushed the Northern Yuan, endured countless battles, gaining immense combat experience and unmatched ferocity.

Even compared to the armies led by Lan Yu, the Danning Border Army fought more often and more fiercely.

Under Zhu Ying’s command, the Danning Border Army achieved miracles.

Despite enduring countless brutal battles, their casualties were far lower than those of other guard battalions.

On the battlefield, seventy percent of soldiers were wounded, thirty percent killed—sometimes nearing eighty percent wounded—yet most survived and recovered.

In true frontal assaults and sieges, other guard battalions often suffered seven out of ten soldiers killed, with only two out of ten wounded.

Even against the Northern Yuan’s hundred-thousand-strong iron cavalry—the strongest cavalry in the world—Zhu Ying led the Danning Border Army to victory, crushing the Yuan forces utterly.

The hardship and achievement were self-evident.

For these soldiers, their survival and countless battle merits were all thanks to their general, Zhu Ying.

Every time they charged into battle, Zhu Ying led from the front, fearless and courageous; his exceptional command earned their deep admiration and trust.

“Hail the General!”

The next moment.

Tens of thousands of soldiers roared in unison, their voices echoing through the night sky, deafening in their intensity.

This cry alone revealed Zhu Ying’s stature and the soldiers’ profound reverence for him.

“My brothers!”

Zhu Ying shouted: “Today marks the day our army breached the Yuan capital!”

“As the first to break through the Yuan capital, our Danning Border Army has earned glory—and the Grand General’s reward.”

“No wine tonight—but meat is unlimited!”

“Brothers, eat your fill! This is your reward for fighting with all your might.”

“When the northern campaign ends, I will host a grand banquet in Danning City, and we will drink our fill together!”

Zhu Ying’s voice carried encouragement to every soldier.

“General, mighty!”

“General, wise!”

“We swear to follow the General to death…”

The soldiers erupted again in excited shouts, their voices brimming with loyalty and affection for Zhu Ying.

“Eat!”

Zhu Ying laughed heartily, his bright laughter infecting everyone present.

Then.

He sat directly on the command platform, joining his officers in a circle.

His old comrades were still there—every one of them a Garrison Commander or higher.

Chen Heng, Zhang Wu, Liu Zhen, Wei Quan—all were present.

“Brothers, what are you waiting for?”

Zhu Ying glanced at them and grinned: “Eat!”

Then.

Zhu Ying tore off a chunk of mutton from the bonfire and devoured it with relish.

Though the food of this era lacked the flavors of later times, Zhu Ying had long grown accustomed to it.

“Hear that? The General’s eating!”

“Let’s eat!”

“Northern Yuan cattle and sheep are famous for their taste—don’t waste it!”

“Eat…”

The officers responded immediately, with no hesitation.

Like Zhu Ying, they tore off mutton from the fire and ate heartily.

In the army, the atmosphere was pure—no rank or status, only brothers united by a common cause.

Especially in Zhu Ying’s army, there was no scheming or deceit—only open honesty.

This pure, sincere atmosphere was what Zhu Ying cherished most; years of military life had fully immersed him in it.

Under Zhu Ying’s influence, the Danning Border Army had become exactly what he wanted: a brotherhood bound by camaraderie.

At this moment.

Xiao Han hurried to Zhu Ying’s side, bowing slightly with respect: “General, the Prince of Ning has arrived.”

“If he’s come, invite him over.”

Zhu Ying still wore a smile, speaking calmly.

Several days ago, Zhu Ying had learned of Zhu Quan’s identity, but he gave it no special thought, nor did he fear the prince’s royal status.

To him, Zhu Quan’s birth into the imperial family was simply luck—he saw nothing extraordinary about it.

Soon, Zhu Quan strode up the command platform.

He still wore his princely python robe, yet showed no royal airs, his face beaming with sincerity: “General Zhu, I came uninvited—forgive my boldness.”

Zhu Quan now appeared remarkably humble.

“Prince of Ning, you are too kind.”

Zhu Ying replied with a smile, tone laced with respect: “This is our Danning Border Army’s victory feast. As Prince of Danning City, you rightfully share in the celebration.”

“Come, sit.”

“Just don’t mind our soldiers’ rough manners.”

Zhu Ying gestured warmly, inviting Zhu Quan to sit—courteous without being subservient, bold without losing dignity.

“Haha.”

Zhu Quan laughed freely: “I’ve always longed for military life—how could I mind?”

Saying this.

Zhu Quan sat without hesitation beside Zhu Ying.

Likewise.

This was his first time at such an event; his eyes sparkled with curiosity and excitement—he clearly found the lively camp atmosphere fascinating.

It was plain he relished this harmonious, unified atmosphere and longed to belong to it.

“Come, Prince of Ning, don’t be shy.”

Zhu Ying smiled, tore off a whole lamb leg from the fire, and handed it to Zhu Quan—natural, unforced, no flattery.

“Thank you.”

Zhu Quan took the lamb leg, smiled gratefully without a hint of disdain, bit into it at once, then said with a grin: “General Zhu, I’m a prince, but don’t keep calling me Prince Ning—just call me by my name. I won’t call you General Zhu either; you’re older than me, so I’ll call you Brother Zhu.”

Zhu Quan’s eyes revealed sincerity and warmth—he truly wished to befriend Zhu Ying, setting aside his princely status and pride, hoping to build a bond as ordinary friends.

It was clear Zhu Quan held deep affection and respect for Zhu Ying, longing to become his true friend, not merely someone bound by rank and position.

“Hah!” Zhu Ying laughed aloud and said: “Then I won’t be formal.”

“Brother Zhu Quan.”

Zhu Ying spoke with hearty generosity—he genuinely admired Zhu Quan’s unpretentious nature and was eager to befriend him.

Compared to Zhu Di’s calculating mind, Zhu Ying preferred the Ning Prince Zhu Quan before him: fewer schemes, no hidden agendas.

With Zhu Di, you must watch your step.

With Zhu Quan, you need not.

“Ah!” Zhu Quan immediately grinned and solemnly called out: “Brother Zhu!”

That voice brimmed with warmth and sincerity, as if they had been close friends for years.

And this moment!

In the days to come, both would look back and find the memory unbearable to recall.

Especially Zhu Quan—each time he thought of that “Brother,” he felt nothing but embarrassment.

But now,

neither thought much of it; it was pure and simple.

“My official age in the army has been increased by nearly two years, but I am indeed older than Zhu Quan.”

“He didn’t miscall me Brother Zhu.”

Zhu Ying thought silently to himself.

He didn’t dwell on it.

He continued enjoying the victory feast with the others.

Seeing how close he had grown to Zhu Ying, Zhu Quan grew slightly more at ease.

As he ate the lamb, he smiled and asked: “Brother Zhu, are you truly planning to lead the army north in pursuit?”

His tone carried curiosity and concern—he clearly cared deeply about this question.

This question!

Drew the attention of the other generals.

All the generals paused their actions, glancing at Zhu Quan, then at Zhu Ying.

Regarding this matter,

Chen Heng and Zhang Wu already knew—their understanding of Zhu Ying’s goal was clear.

They would follow, but the other generals did not.

“Even if I didn’t want to, the Emperor would still issue an order to pursue.”

Zhu Ying smiled, his face brimming with confidence.

Hearing this,

“With Father Emperor’s grand ambition, indeed,” Zhu Quan nodded, agreeing with Zhu Ying—he understood Zhu Yuanzhang’s determination; northern campaign and pursuit were inevitable.

“Since I’ve been granted the title of Marquis of Champion, the highest honor any warrior ever sought, I must act as a Marquis of Champion should.”

“This battle must be fought.”

“The Yuan Emperor must die.”

“Northern Yuan must fall into chaos.”

“This is the true purpose of this northern campaign.”

“Only then can our Han people along the northern frontier live in true peace for years to come.”

“Otherwise, the people of the northern frontier will never rest easy.”

Zhu Ying spoke with solemn gravity.

Hearing this,

The generals of the Da Ning frontier army all responded in unison: “We swear to follow the General!”

It was clear every general sincerely wished to follow Zhu Ying, asking no questions—following their General was right.

Zhu Quan was deeply moved, gazing at these generals still reeking of blood and radiating killing intent, and exclaimed: “Brother Zhu is extraordinary!”

“Once, the Da Ning frontier army stationed in Da Ning Prefecture was not particularly outstanding—the Beiping army was the strongest in the northern frontier. But since Brother Zhu took command and became Da Ning’s Regional Military Commissioner, Da Ning’s army has become the strongest in the northern frontier.”

As he spoke,

Zhu Quan’s eyes shone with admiration and envy—he likely longed deep inside to be like Zhu Ying.

“If, after the northern campaign, I could serve alongside Brother Zhu in guarding Da Ning Prefecture, how wonderful that would be.”

Zhu Quan added, his voice filled with hope—this was clearly his true desire.

He knew Zhu Ying’s ability and prestige; if he could one day guard Da Ning with Zhu Ying, he would surely ensure regional peace and improve governance, earning recognition from the capital.

Clearly, this last point was Zhu Quan’s real motive.

If it truly came to pass, it would be the greatest fortune for him.

“Hah!” Zhu Ying replied with a smile: “If I could remain in Da Ning, that would indeed be excellent.”

He spoke truthfully—he too hoped to continue guarding Da Ning.

But the faces of the Da Ning battle generals around them darkened—they had just realized something.

After this northern campaign, Zhu Ying’s battle merits were so great, each alone worthy of separate reward.

First to breach the frontier city, captured countless towns, shattered the Yuan iron cavalry, stormed the Yuan capital—everyone knew that after the campaign, Zhu Ying would be promoted.

The post of Regional Military Commissioner of Da Ning Guard Battalion would likely no longer be his—he would rise to higher positions.

Though they knew his promotion was good, the thought of him leaving filled them with unease and deep reluctance.

Zhu Quan’s words naturally made the Da Ning generals think of the future.

What if their General truly left? What would they do?

They had grown accustomed to fighting under Zhu Ying’s command, relying on and trusting him utterly—they could not imagine life without him.

“General.”

Chen Heng could no longer hold back; his face showed urgency and pleading as he looked at Zhu Ying: “If you are promoted and no longer stay in Da Ning, could you take me with you? I swear to follow you to my death.”

Chen Heng’s voice was resolute—he would follow Zhu Ying anywhere.

As soon as he spoke, the other generals’ eyes lit up, as if seeing a glimmer of hope.

Then, one by one, they turned to Zhu Ying, pleading: “We also wish to follow the General—please do not abandon us.”

At this moment, all dozens of battle generals present felt the same.

Their faces were filled with hope and longing, hoping Zhu Ying would accept their plea.

Clearly!

Zhu Ying held an unparalleled place in their hearts.

They had faced countless life-and-death moments with him, forging deep bonds.

In their hearts, Zhu Ying was not merely their General—he was their brother and their anchor.

“Zhu Ying’s prestige among the Da Ning frontier army is truly unmatched.”

Zhu Quan thought silently, equally astonished.

“If he could remain in Da Ning, that would be best. But if he cannot be kept, at least let the Da Ning frontier army stay here.”

Zhu Quan understood the importance of the Da Ning frontier army—he hoped to leverage its strength to secure Da Ning Prefecture.

After all, within Da Ning Prefecture now stood both the Da Ning Guard Battalion and the Huizhouwei.

Even Zhu Quan himself did not know which army he would command when he became Prince.

The capital had issued no decree yet—everything remained uncertain.

Seeing the faces of the generals before him, Zhu Ying smiled faintly, his eyes warm with emotion.

Then,

Zhu Ying spoke: “What are you saying?”

“The northern campaign isn’t over—I’m still Regional Military Commissioner of Da Ning.”

“Even if I am promoted someday, isn’t there still the Guard System?”

“The northern frontier has so many troops—do you really think there won’t be a place for me, Zhu Ying?”

“Today, I tell you, my brothers: I don’t crave the splendor of the Central Plains—I love guarding the northern frontier for the nation, and I love being with my brothers in the army.”

“If the day of promotion truly comes, I, Zhu Ying, will surely petition the Emperor to remain stationed on the northern frontier, to protect its peace.”

Zhu Ying’s voice was firm, his expression radiating love for the frontier and a promise to his brothers.

Hearing this, the generals were all deeply moved: “The General is wise!”

At this moment,

They all wore relieved smiles—Zhu Ying’s promise meant more to them than the lamb in their hands.

After so long following Zhu Ying, they had long seen him as their military soul and anchor—how could they bear to part?

“Zhu Ying is truly unlike ordinary men.”

Zhu Quan thought silently, filled with admiration.

“Others scramble to reach the capital, craving its luxury.”

“Yet he willingly stays on the northern frontier. Such a man is rare indeed.”

Zhu Quan’s admiration for Zhu Ying deepened further, and his resolve to befriend him grew stronger.

Time gradually passed!

Inside the Da Ning frontier troops, the camp buzzed with activity. Though there was no wine, the great victory had left countless soldiers exhilarated.

They chatted freely, sharing their battle experiences and joy, thoroughly delighted.

After finishing his meal, Zhu Ying rose to return to his tent for a wash and a good rest.

After a day of exertion, he felt somewhat weary.

But just as he returned to camp, he saw a man waiting outside his tent.

The man was Zhu Neng, commander of Zhu Di’s personal guard.

Upon seeing Zhu Ying arrive, Zhu Neng immediately stepped forward.

“Commander Zhu.” Zhu Ying looked at Zhu Neng, frowning slightly, puzzled. “What are you doing here?”

Clearly,

Zhu Neng’s waiting here was odd.

“Marquis Guanjun,” Zhu Neng bowed deeply, his tone deeply respectful. “I have been ordered by Prince Yan to invite you to meet him.”

“Prince Yan has urgent matters to discuss with the Marquis Guanjun.”

Hearing this,

“Then let me wash up first, then go,” Zhu Ying nodded and said.

He was still covered in dried blood, unwashed.

“Marquis Guanjun,” Zhu Neng smiled. “That’s perfect.”

“Prince Yan is waiting for you in the Chancellor’s Mansion in town—there’s a bath there.”

“Prince Yan has also prepared fine wine, hoping to talk with you by candlelight through the night.”

Zhu Neng’s smile carried a hint of hidden meaning, inscrutable.

Hearing this,

Zhu Ying felt even more suspicious.

“What does Zhu Di want? Out of nowhere, inviting me to bathe and drink? Is he planning something?”

Zhu Ying pondered silently—Zhu Di’s behavior this time was truly strange.

He knew Zhu Di’s nature well; such sudden warmth must have a purpose.

After all,

Historically, Zhu Di was the prince who rebelled, and he had been preparing for years.

As Zhu Ying knew, Zhu Di had already begun preparations.

Accumulating wealth, raising troops.

But with Zhu Ying’s current full attributes, even poison posed no threat—he wasn’t afraid of Zhu Di’s tricks.

If the matter was laid bare, so much the better.

“Fine.”

“Let’s go.”

Zhu Ying’s expression remained calm as he nodded slightly.

With that,

Zhu Ying walked toward the warhorse beside his tent and mounted it with ease.

At this moment, Liu Lei had already assembled his personal guards, ready and lined up.

Seeing Zhu Ying mount, Liu Lei waved his hand, and the guards swiftly mounted their own horses.

Hooves clattered.

The group set out toward the city.

Not long after,

They arrived at the former Chancellor’s Mansion of the Northern Yuan.

Though Zhu Di was a prince, in this former Yuan capital, he dared not overstep—he dared not reside in the imperial palace, symbol of imperial authority, and instead temporarily lodged in the Chancellor’s Mansion.

Under Zhu Neng’s guidance, Zhu Ying arrived at the rear hall of the Chancellor’s Mansion.

A hall came into view.

The door stood half-open, steam rising from within.

Inside,

Amid swirling mist, a hot bath stood prominently, its waters steaming.

Zhu Di leaned against the edge of the bath, eyes closed, his expression seemingly relaxed, yet faintly tense.

“Your Highness. The Marquis Guanjun has arrived.”

Zhu Neng’s respectful voice echoed from outside. Zhu Di slowly opened his eyes, a complex, indescribable look flashing across them—hesitation, yet resolve.

He knew some things had reached the point of no return; if he did not act now, he might never get another chance.

“Bring him in.”

Zhu Di said, his voice heavy with authority.

At this command,

Several maids inside the hall moved softly and slowly pushed open the door.

When they saw Zhu Ying standing at the threshold, drenched in blood, their faces turned pale with terror.

Clearly, they were frightened by him.

He looked more like a man risen from a pile of corpses.

“Undress the Marquis Guanjun,” Zhu Di said calmly.

“Yes.”

Though fearful, the maids dared not disobey. They stepped forward tremblingly, carefully removing Zhu Ying’s armor and clothing.

Each motion was executed with extreme caution, afraid of provoking the fearsome-looking general before them.

Zhu Ying, meanwhile, fixed his gaze on Zhu Di in the bath. Today’s Zhu Di was unlike any he had ever seen.

In past encounters, whether in camp or elsewhere, Zhu Di had always concealed his sharpness, appearing steady and reserved.

But now, amid the misty steam, Zhu Di seemed transformed—his royal authority fully unleashed, his gaze sharp as a hawk, his innate aura of dominance unmistakable.

“What exactly is he planning today?”

Zhu Ying stared at Zhu Di, silently pondering.

His eyes scanned Zhu Di’s body, searching for any clue in his expression or posture.

Yet,

Zhu Di’s expression remained calm, unreadable.

Zhu Ying felt a surge of caution, mixed with curiosity—he did not know what would come next, or what Zhu Di’s true purpose was.

……

(End of Chapter)