1437 - 1444
Chapter 1437: Fates
Translator: WQL Editor: Aleem
"Soon after the Thor's Mercenary Regiment arrive at Western Continent, it had disbanded. If an organization like mercenary regiment wants to survive in troubled times, it has to establish a wide network of relationships, have a powerful reliance or at least a knight on its back. Pitifully, Thor's Mercenary Regiment didn't meet either of the three conditions. Additionally, it was pushed aside by the other mercenary regiments. Of course, we could barely develop. After one year's struggle, Thor's Mercenary Regiment received a task which was schemed by someone. Our director was heavily injured in the execution of this task. Additionally, we lost 1/4 of middle- and high-level backbones. From then on, Thor's Mercenary Regiment had been declining. Later on, it was disbanded and we separated from each other…"
As they had not seen each other for a long time, of course, they would have a drink. After having cups of 10-year peach blossom spirit, Zerom and Captain Kerlin both blushed as they started to pour out their experience to Zhang Tie over these years.
In troubled times, very few people could really live well in a foreign country. What Zerom and Captain Kerlin experienced on the Western Continent was the epitome of many middle- and low-level fighters.
Watching the wrinkled faces of the two people, Zhang Tie let out a sigh inside as he bottomed up his spirit and said, "Where did you go after that?"
"After leaving Thor's Mercenary Regiment, Kerlin and I also attempted to join other mercenary regiments in 2 years. However, we didn't feel having a good prospect of joining them. Facing the threat of demons, those mercenary regiments on the Western Continent were all cheap pieces in the hands of countries. There're many shady deals in this line. It was nothing different than being the cheapest cannon fodders like those youngsters who expected to prove their own values out of their passion using sabers and swords on the battlefield for us to join those powerful mercenary regiments. Even our compensations would be saved…"
Hearing Zerom's words, Captain Kerlin took his glass and bottomed up his spirit with a bit gloomy look. After that, he forcefully put the glass onto the table, causing a loud sound, "All those b*stards should be torn to shreds. They're even more inhumane than demons…"
Zerom forced a bitter smile as he threw a glance at Captain Kerlin, "We met a female fighter in that mercenary regiment. Like us, she was also treated as cannon fodder. Additionally, as a female, she would even encounter some special troubles in the male-dominated mercenary regiment. If not help her, she might even face a more miserable situation than males. Later on, Kerlin killed a middle-level backbone of that mercenary regiment out of fury for the sake of that female fighter. As a result, we were hunted by that mercenary regiment and could only leave out of there. And that female knight fell in love with Kerlin in this process. Additionally, they had the father of a church hold a wedding ceremony for them in a rural area of Shardline Dukedom by force at the cost of 2 silver coins. That is to say, Captain Kerlin has already got a family…"
Zhang Tie really felt happy for the Cyclops after knowing that he met his beloved one in an escape. At this moment, Captain Kerlin blushed with a happy look, "You've got a family too." Captain Kerlin said as he turned around and unveiled Zerom's secret, "You could never guess this guy's wife."
"Who is she?"
"You know her!" Captain Kerlin revealed a smile.
"I know her?" Zhang Tie became amazed as he really couldn't imagine whom he got acquainted with would marry Zerom.
"It's Miss Killy!" Captain Kerlin unveiled the answer.
"Miss Killy?" This name sounded familiar. No sooner did Captain Kerlin mention it than Zhang Tie recalled a beautiful figure who drove away Glaze on the square of Wild Wolf Castle. Of course, at that time, that female teacher who always gazed all the male horny ones in an alert way also disliked Zhang Tie.
Zhang Tie felt a bit abrupt hearing Mr. Zerom got married to Miss Killy. However, after considering it for a short while, Zhang Tie admitted that Zerom and Miss Killy really had pretty harmonious qi fields.
"What? How did you contact Miss Killy on the Western Continent?" Zhang Tie watched Zerom with a curious look as he added, "I've not imagined that Mr. Zerom could have such a great secret, hahaha…"
"Ahem, ahem, erm, before leaving Blackhot City, I had been contacting Killy. She had an uncle doing business in Nordinham Commercial Federation on the Western Continent. Killy said she would go to find her uncle after leaving Blackhot City. After crossing a small part of the Western Continent, Kerlin, Angelina and I finally came to Nordinham Commercial Federation after escaping from the chase of that mercenary regiment. As a scaled organization on the Western Continent, Nordinham Commercial Federation was coveted by some forces. In order to divide the sphere of influence of Nordinham Commercial Federation, those forces bribed many mercenary regiments to fight the army of Nordinham Commercial Federation. After tiding over those crises, Nordinham Commercial Federation has forbidden to carry out any campaign with any mercenary regiment in its territory. After coming to Nordinham Commercial Federation, we settled down there. I also started to contact Killy. As to what happened later, you already know…" Zerom shrugged…
"Milton is the deputy president of Nordinham Commercial Federation. After coming to Nordinham Commercial Federation, both Kerlin and I wanted to settle down as we didn't want to have any relationship with any mercenary regiment anymore. In the beginning, we found a job in a business group under the affiliation of Nordinham Commercial Federation and did a good job. We could barely see big figures like Milton. Last year, Milton knew that Kerlin and I came from Blackhot City by accident and got acquainted with you; therefore, he wanted to establish a relationship with you using us. Previously, we didn't know about your situation in Taixia Country. It was Milton who told us about your situation!" Zerom forced a bitter smile as he continued, "I also felt that this was a good chance for us to improve our fate. Therefore, we came to Taixia Country with Milton by an airboat of Golden Roc Bank…"
Chapter 1438: Making an Arrangement
Translator: WQL Editor: Aleem
Zerom and Captain Kerlin had been in Xuanyuan Hill for almost 3 months. During this period, although they both knew that Zhang Tie was receiving medical treatment in Xuanyuan Hill, they couldn't have a chance to meet Zhang Tie, even those who were familiar with Zhang Tie.
Milton was the deputy president of Nordinham Commercial Federation, which had a good relationship with Rhesa Republic on the Western Continent. Precisely, Rhesa Republic provided protection to Nordinham Commercial Federation to a certain degree. As one of the most powerful countries on the Western Continent, Rhesa Republic could almost match Sacred Light Empire in overall strength. Its overall strength was far greater than that of Nordinham Commercial Federation; they were not on the same scale at all.
Taixia Country had established an official diplomatic relationship with Rhesa Republic. They had dispatched embassadors mutually. By comparison, because Nordinham Commercial Federation had just risen for dozens of years, such as small force on the Western Continent had not established an official diplomatic relationship with Taixia Country. Actually, it only had a small office in Xuanyuan Hill.
After realizing that Zerom and Captain Kerlin couldn't have a chance to meet Zhang Tie, Milton even dreamed about having Rhesa Republic's diplomat in Xuanyuan Hill to facilitate the relation so that Zerom and Captain Kerlin could enter emperor's imperial city to meet Zhang Tie.
However, such a request was absolutely a big joke for the Rhesa Republic's diplomat in Xuanyuan Hill.
The Rhesa Republic's diplomat in Xuanyuan Hill was aware of Zhang Tie's influence and social status in Taixia Country. How would he dare to guarantee two strange guys to enter the emperor's imperial city without doing any harm to Zhang Tie, who was receiving medical treatment? If an emergency occurred, all the Rhesa Republic's diplomats in Xuanyuan Hill would be sentenced to death; even Rhesa Republic as a whole couldn't bear the fury of Taixia Country. Even the speaker of Rhesa Republic posed the request, their diplomats in Xuanyuan Hill should also confirm it with their domestic authorities before making a decision, not to mention the deputy president of Nordinham Commercial Federation.
Therefore, Milton couldn't have a chance to meet Rhesa Republic's diplomats even though he had tried so many times that he even became emaciated.
After learning the situation from Zerom and Captain Kerlin, Zhang Tie became hesitant for a few seconds before asking, "How's Milton Clan's power in Nordinham Commercial Federation?"
"Milton Clan have one city, some towns and some small mines in Nordinham Commercial Federation. Additionally, they control over 7 million people and have a federal army of about 50,000 people. According to the rankings on wealth issued by Nordinham Commercial Federation, Milton Clan had about 12 million gold coins last year. In addition, they employed a clan knight…" Zerom answered.
Stroking his jaw, Zhang Tie continued, "How's the power of Nordinham Commercial Federation?"
"Nordinham Commercial Federation has totally 87 members of parliament, which represent 87 cities. Anyone who has one private city is qualified to join Nordinham Commercial Federation and become a member of the parliament of the federation. The clan of Angor the speaker has an experienced black iron knight and 6 seats of members of parliament in Nordinham Commercial Federation. They're the most powerful one in the federation. There're 5 deputy speakers. Milton Clan has one, who ranks 3rd among the 5 deputy speakers. This man is ambitious, insightful and adventurous…"
"They could employ one knight with one city?" Zhang Tie became amazed, "I remember that all the clans which could employ a knight in Waii Subcontinent are unusual. Many knights were No. 1 knights of countries. Andaman Federation had 17 cities; however, they couldn't afford a knight!"
Zerom forced a bitter smile, "Erm, there are a bit more knights on the Western Continent. Cities and countries are a bit more prosperous over there, which could not be matched by Waii Subcontinent. Additionally, these knights employed by small clans don't take too many compensations. Accordingly, they have greater freedom and discretion. Generally, they would not interfere with the common disputes of these clans. Conversely, these clans are a tool of these knights. Actually, employed knights could have these clans do something for them for the sake of convenience. Each takes what they need. There're also many No. 1 knights on Western Continent. Being similar to those in Waii Subcontinent, their compensation are in line with their efforts!"
After hearing Zerom's explanation, Zhang Tie had given up meeting Milton. In Zhang Tie's eyes, this deputy speaker was absolutely a trivial role who had not seen the world. What to negotiate with such a person? Based on the power of Milton Clan, they could at most run a Fiery-Oil Production Base with an annual output of 500,000 tons. It was unnecessary for Zhang Tie to negotiate with him on it.
Like how Zerom had concluded, although Milton was ambitious, insightful and adventurous, such a kind of person could be found almost everywhere across the Western Continent. This guy was just lucky enough to meet Zerom and Captain Kerlin and wanted the two people to introduce him to Zhang Tie for profit. Therefore, they came to Xuanyuan Hill. Such a person was useful; however, it was not necessary to expect too much from him or respect him too much.
With growing experience and ability, Zhang Tie's horizon was far greater than that a few years ago. Even the halos priest of Sacred Light Empire had to kneel down in front of him and become his puppet and piece, not to mention a deputy speaker of a small organization on the Western Continent. In Zhang Tie's eyes, the overall strength of the Milton Clan was so weak that it could even be ignored.
After looking at Zerom and Captain Kerlin, Zhang Tie became hesitant for a few seconds before saying, "Do you want to settle down in Taixia Country. If you want, I could make an arrangement for you. You could settle down wherever you want, even in Xuanyuan Hill, not to mention Guizhou Province and my private territory. If you want, I could have Golden Roc Bank bring your wives and family members here by airboat today!"
After exchanging a glance with each other, Zerom and Captain Kerlin shook their heads at the same time.
"Although Taixia Country is great, I prefer Western Continent. Like how you Hua people like Hua people-populated places, I would also feel comfortable on the Western Continent. Additionally, we could have more chances on the Western Continent. What could we do in Taixia Country?"
Zerom said as Captain Kerlin kept nodding forcefully on one side.
"In many cases, I couldn't even understand people's words here. I'm afraid that I couldn't even find a job in Taixia Country!" the Cyclops let out a sigh as he continued, "There's not even a mercenary regiment here. Even if I want to be a watchdog for rich people, very few people would employ me. Even though I don't have to worry about my daily needs, I don't want to live out my life in retirement so fast. I'm already LV 10; I might make a few more progress in the future…"
Zerom and Kerlin were both enterprising and didn't feel like being average for the rest of their lives. Although Taixia Country was great, they still felt that it would be a bit easier to develop a great undertaking on the Western Continent.
"Hmm, I see…" Zhang Tie considered it for a few seconds before taking out a remote-sensing finger ring and ten gold checks from his space-teleportation finger ring. Each gold check was worth 10,000 gold coins. Closely after that, he gave them to Zerom and Kerlin as he said, "Take them. You could contact me whenever you want. You'd better live in Xuanyuan Hill for the time being. I will make arrangements for you. Don't worry about that…"
Many people might not be able to make a gold check worth 10,000 gold coins for their whole lives. Even Zerom and Kerlin barely saw gold checks of such a big denomination. At the sight of those gold checks, they both felt thirsty. As for the remote-sensing finger ring, it must be a senior communications device matched for knights. Zerom and Kerlin had not seen such a delicate device before at all. What they had seen were as large as alarm clocks and hourglasses.
"Is this a remote-sensing communications device?" Zerom took that remote-sensing communications mithril finger ring and fondled with it seriously.
"Yes, its usage is as same as that of common remote-sensing communications device. Its communication code is the universal code that we used in Wild Wolf Valley!"
After gazing at those gold checks for a few seconds, Captain Kerlin finally moved his eye away from them as he stammered, "It's…too much, more than we could spend…"
Zhang Tie replied with a smile as he blinked his eyes, "In Xuanyuan Hill, it's not too much. Just take it. I promise that you will not feel it's too much soon!"
After having enough drink and talk, Zhang Tie had already made a decision inside. Therefore, he told the neighboring room, "Qing'er, Suxian, come over here to see my two teachers. They saved my life in Wild Wolf Valley!"
Sitting in the neighborhood, of course, the two female knights could hear Zhang Tie's words. Actually, all the contents of their dialogue had entered their ears.
"Ahh, you've got friends here?" Zerom and Kerlin uttered with an amazed look in unison.
"We're traveling to the peach mountain today. Soon after we arrived here, I've heard Captain Kerlin's voice…" Zhang Tie gave an explanation.
Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing had already entered the room when Zhang Tie explained it.
At the sight of the looks and qi fields of Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing, Zerom and Kerlin were shocked so much that they hurriedly sprung up as they held their breath.
"This is Mr. Zerom whom I've talked to you about. This is Captain Kerlin, the most powerful man in the hearts of all the male students in No. 7 National Male Middle School…" Zhang Tie introduced them, "This is Bai Suxian, the princess of Lord Guangnan's Mansion, a black iron knight; this is Yan Feiqing, the owner of Fantasy Women Palace, Cloud Dream Mountain, Wuzhou Province, a heavenly knight. They're both my wives…"
Zerom and Kerlin were both dumbfounded by the identities of Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing as they didn't know what to say. One was the princess of Lord Guangnan's Mansion; the other was a heavenly knight. They were absolutely legendary existences in the hearts of Zerom and Kerlin.
"Thanks for saving my husband!" Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing exchanged a glance with each other before lowering their bodies and tilting to one side elegantly.
"Ahh, pleasure, pleasure, Zhang Tie is favored by the god. He was not destined to die!" Zerom hurriedly answered fluently as Captain Kerlin couldn't utter a word due to shock.
Given Zhang Tie's introduction, Zerom realized that the two women were both very dignified. If not meet Zhang Tie here, they were not even qualified to run an errand for Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing, not to mention receiving their thanks.
After having Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing greet Zeron and Kerlin, Zhang Tie stayed in the private room for a few more minutes. After saying some words, he left the tavern with Yan Feiqing and Bai Suxian.
Not until the three left for a few minutes did Zerom and Kerlin recover their composure as they exchanged a glance with each other.
The Cyclops swallowed his saliva forcefully before saying, "The moment the two women entered, I've felt pretty intense and couldn't run my battle qi smoothly. I even felt breathless and head buzzing. One of them is a princess; the other is a heavenly knight. Am I right?"
"Yes, you're. Zhang Tie indeed said so!"
The Cyclops scratched his head as he asked, "What does a princess in Taixia Country mean?"
"Is Waii Subcontinent large?" Zerom asked.
"Yes!" The Cyclops nodded.
"I'm afraid that that princess' private territory is 5-6 times that of Waii Subcontinent. Her father is a lord. I'm afraid that her family has tens of hundreds of knights and hundreds of millions of soldiers!"
"Is she Zhang Tie's wife?"
"Yes…" Zerom's voice turned ethereal like a somniloquy, "The other woman is a heavenly knight. Given battle strength and influence, that woman might even match that princess' father. For the sake of your comprehension, that woman might be like a pope of Sacred Light Empire or a sage of Rhesa Republic who's responsible for the national security!"
"Am I…dreaming…" The Cyclops pinched himself forcefully.
"No, you're not dreaming. Do you remember what I told you in Wild Wolf Valley?——I feel that Zhang Tie might be a person out of our imagination in the future like today…" Zerom fondled with the remote-sensing communications finger ring meticulously as he gave the gold checks to the Cyclops and said, "Take them. It might be safer if you take them. At least I don't have to worry about being robbed in Xuanyuan Hill…"
"I also remember that you said that Zhang Tie would never be an average person based on his talent on flirting with girls!" the Cyclops watched Zerom with a bit of admiration.
"Yes, we two won't be average either from then on…" Zerom said as he meticulously put on the finger ring before observing it carefully, revealing a bizarre smile.
"Ahh, how? 100,000 gold coins are unable to make us famous!" Captain Kerlin asked as he kept scratching his head with a dubious look.
After hearing Kerlin's words, Zerom rolled his eyes on him at once. He could only raise the remote-sensing finger ring in front of Kerlin along with his face as he said carefully, "Look at this using your remaining eye carefully."
"It's just a senior remote-sensing finger ring, why?"
Zerom patted his own forehead as if he was passing out. He then rolled his eyes on Kerlin again as he said, "Alright, listen, if I go to Western Continent and tell others that I could contact Zhang Tie directly and help people pass one message to him at the price of 100,000 gold coins, people who need our help would queue up all the way from here to the hotel. Do you believe that we would accumulate more wealth and acquire higher social position than Milton Clan in one month by doing nothing else but passing messages for others…"
"Ahh, how could we make so much money only by passing messages using a finger ring?" Captain Kerlin watched Zerom with a dubious look——I didn't read too many books. Don't cheat me.
Zerom became speechless. He could only let out a sigh again as he said, "Alright, it might be a bit difficult for you to understand it. I will deal with the part which requires intelligence. I could only tell you that we don't need to depend on Milton's favor anymore. On the contrary, Milton should depend on our favor. Let's go back to the hotel. I will let you feel being in the limelight today…"
After saying that, Zerom walked outside the room.
"Hua language is too difficult to learn. How could the same meaning be expressed in so many ways? What's "in the limelight"? Shouldn't it be showing our face in the public on the Western Continent?" The Cyclops muttered as he walked outside.
Hearing Kerlin's words, Zerom almost fell down.
Zerom turned around as he watched the Cyclops helplessly, "Kerlin, you could describe those women who were in the most time-honored professions near the railway station of Blackhot City as showing their face in the public but not us…"
"Really? But I feel it's good. When I saw Zhang Tie's two wives, I even wanted to speak highly of their "tiger backs and bear waists". They really have good figures and great power. However, I didn't say it due to intension…" Captain Kerlin said with a pitiful look.
Zerom oozed sweat as he sighed, "Alright, you'd better not speak Hua language when I'm with you; especially Hua idioms. You're really not suitable to live in Taixia Country. I'm afraid that you would be beaten to death sooner or later!"
Chapter 1439: Zhang Tie's Plan
Translator: WQL Editor: Aleem
After a few hours of journey in the peach mountain and a good talk with Zerom and Kerlin at lunch, it was already late than 2 pm. Zhang Tie, Yan Feiqing and Bai Suxian then left the tavern and returned to Qianji Manor.
Both Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing were clear about Zhang Tie's temperament. When Zhang Tie chose to meet Zerom and Kerlin, the two women had already known that Zhang Tie would never let them come here in vain.
Because Zhang Tie was an affectionate person.
The vehicle was a black, low-key, long Fairy-Dragon Limo exclusive to Qianji Manor with a driving license that could access to the emperor's imperial city. The backspace was isolated from the cab of the vehicle. There was a set of circular sofas and a mini-bar in the backspace. The driver was a powerhouse from Imperial Guards. After coming to the peach mountain, the driver parked it in the parking lot and waited for Zhang Tie, Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing to come back.
This vehicle returned to Qianji Manor, followed by two vehicles.
"Are you thinking about arranging your two teachers?" Sitting at the back of the vehicle, Bai Suxian made a glass of spirit for Zhang Tie and gave it to him before asking, "I find that they're also working hard. Why not give them some money or directly buy a city for them on the Western Continent? As long as the relationship between you and them is exposed to the public, I think nobody dares find them trouble on the Western Continent…"
After taking the glass, Zhang Tie had a sip. In a split second, a sour and sweet feeling spread over his body; his tipsy feeling flew away at once. The liquor in this mini-bar was also top-notch. Smacking his lip, Zhang Tie shook his head and said, "Are emperors and lords born to be dignified? Many commoners don't have a chance to display their ability instead of having no ability. Given cultivation talent, Captain Kerlin could match many senior brothers below knights that I met in the Hidden Dragon Island of Huaiyuan Palace. Over these years, Captain Kerlin has already promoted to LV 10. He could go further in cultivation. Zerom is very wise. His insight and judgment are far greater than commoners. If there's a chance, the two people would definitely make a great achievement. Therefore, I don't only intend to give them some money. Actually, I prepare to let Zerom become the speaker of Nordinham Commercial Federation!"
"Ahh, won't it overreach him?" Yan Feiqing asked as she slightly frowned, "Sometimes, haste makes waste. Additionally, one's ability couldn't be trained in one day!"
"I see. I won't push him. It's just an objective. He could start by becoming a member of the parliament. I think that Zerom should be able to be a member of the parliament of Nordinham Commercial Federation now. When there's an opportunity, he could compete for deputy speaker and speaker step by step. As for Kerlin, actually, he's most suitable to stay in troops as an officer. He's forthright and is born to be a soldier. If he could join Fiery-Dragon Corps, he might become a corps leader in the future. On the Western Continent, he could coordinate with Zerom to rule his subordinate troops!"
"But the two people should at least have a private city so that Zerom could become a member of the parliament of Nordinham Commercial Federation. Are you ready to buy a city for them on the Western Continent?"
Zhang Tie shook his head as he said, "When the two people talked about Rhesa Republic, I recalled that I actually have a private territory on the Western Continent. If everything goes well, I don't need to buy any city for them anymore!"
"Ahh, you've got a private territory on the Western Continent?" Bai Suxian's interest was aroused at once as she continued, "I've not heard of it! When did you get it?"
Not only Bai Suxian, but even Yan Feiqing's eyes also shone. As for Yan Feiqing, she was more interested in the source and purpose of Zhang Tie's "case-dough".
Zhang Tie smiled as a map that Sacred Light Empire gifted him for mediating the event of its expedition army against Ice and Snow Wilderness appeared in Zhang Tie's hand. Zhang Tie showed it to Yan Feiqing and Bai Suxian.
"After the expedition fleet that Sacred Light Empire assigned to attack Ice and Snow Wilderness was exterminated, Sacred Light Empire assigned an envoy to negotiate peace with me. That special envoy was called Astor, a chief priest and a clerk of the pope of Sacred Light Empire. According to the pope of Sacred Light Empire, they exchanged for my forgiveness with Fadiland, an enclave on the southwest corner of the Western Continent. I agreed. Therefore, jurisprudentially, I'm already the owner of the autonomous region of Fadiland on the Western Continent!"
"Ah, not bad. Fadiland covers about 6 million square miles although being smaller in size. Additionally, it has a part of the coastline and some islands in the sea in the southern border. It might not lack resources. This place is adjacent to a barbarian federation in the northeast and adjoins Rhesa Republic in the northwest. Now that Sacred Light Empire spent efforts in getting this region, it seems that this region is not too poor…" Bai Suxian analyzed as she watched the map.
"Fadiland Province's predecessor is Fadiland Empire. After joining the Sacred Light Empire, this region is not bad as a whole besides being a bit chaotic. Additionally, look…" Zhang Tie pointed at a region linking the Barbarian Federation and Rhesa Republic in the north of Fadiland Province which was marked as Nordinham Commercial Federation on the Western Continent. The entire territory of Nordinham Commercial Federation covered about 1,300 square miles. Zhang Tie drew a circle on a place as he said, "As long as I build a city here and buy this region, my private territory would adjoin Nordinham Commercial Federation…"
"This place might link barbarian federation and Rhesa Republic. It covers about 600,000 square miles. Barbarian Federation and Rhesa Republic are both powerful forces that could match the Sacred Light Empire on the Western Continent. God of barbarians and National Saint of Rhesa Republic were both heavenly knights. It might not be easy for you to get land from them!"
Zhang Tie replied with a confident smile, "No need to fight them. As long as the condition is proper, I believe that everything could be exchanged. Now that Sacred Light Empire could cut off Fadiland Empire for me, it's not strange for Barbarian Federation and Rhesa Republic to cut off some land for me too!"
Chapter 1440: An Invitation Card for National Banquet
Translator: WQL Editor: Aleem
Zhang Tie was not ambitious about occupying the Western Continent. Now that he had already got Fadiland Province on the Western Continent, he should make some preparation for the future. Likewise, a farmer collected some firewood for stockpile; it didn't mean that he wanted to occupy the entire mountain.
As Zhang Tie was pondering the map of Fadiland Province, Barbarian Federation, Rhesa Republic and Nordinham Commercial Federation and the future of Zerom and Kerlin, his vehicle had already entered emperor's imperial city and returned to Qianji Manor.
After returning to Qianji Manor, Zhang Tie didn't imagine that an imperial official had been waiting for him.
After having Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing return to their courtyard, Zhang Tie received that imperial official in a parlor of Qianji Manor.
At the sight of Zhang Tie, that imperial official immediately gave an invitation card which was made of violet gold to Zhang Tie.
After taking it and skimming over it, Zhang Tie's face turned strange, "The crown prince is about to hold an evening reception in the imperial palace?"
"Yes!" That imperial official behaved very respectfully; instead of looking straight into Zhang Tie's eyes, he watched the part below Zhang Tie's knees, "Since demons invaded Taixia Country, crown prince had been busy with national affairs, and no more banquet was held anymore in the imperial palace. After Taixia Country made a triumph in the Western Theater of Operations and the general woke up, the crown prince is thrilled as he prepares to hold an evening dinner for celebration and displaying the power of Taixia Country to the foreign forces!"
A whim occurred to Zhang Tie as he asked, "Will any other foreign ambassadors attend this banquet?"
"Yes, it's a national banquet. Besides those prominent chancellors of Xuanyuan Hill, many foreign ambassadors and imperial households from other continents and subcontinents would attend it!"
Zhang Tie threw a glance at the date and found it would be held after 10 days. Family members were also allowed to attend it. Only after being hesitant for a second, Zhang Tie had told the imperial official, "Please notice the crown prince that I will attend it on time!"
After hearing Zhang Tie's promise, the imperial official immediately felt a sense of relief as he deeply bowed towards Zhang Tie and said, "If the general doesn't have other order, this humble official would return to notice the crown prince!"
After Zhang Tie nodded, the imperial official left the parlor. After arriving at the gate, he bowed towards Zhang Tie again before leaving. After seeing off that imperial official, Zhang Tie sat in his room for a short while. After that, he fetched a steward and gave a name card to him, having him pay a visit to Rhesa Republic's Embassy in Xuanyuan Hill. After leaving some words to the steward, Zhang Tie stroked his face as he returned to his courtyard with that invitation card.
In the courtyard, Yan Feiqing and Bai Suxian took the invitation card and skimmed over it. Yan Feiqing then let out a sigh, "I remember that Emperor Xuanyuan issued so many orders to invite Immortal Sea King to Xuanyuan Hill, even by assigning many fleets to look for him in overseas. Your military exploits on the battlefield could even match that of Immortal Sea King. It's His Majesty's great virtue and honor to invite you to Xuanyuan Hill by holding an evening dinner. If you could attend it, the crown prince's prestige among officials and the people would definitely rise rapidly. It's not enough for him to gift you 10 Purple Manor…"
Zhang Tie replied with a smile, "I see, but he's too hospitable to be declined. In addition, it's just a banquet, not a big deal. Taixia Country is in a holy war. Emperor Xuanyuan is still missing. Such a big country should have a ruler in the crisis. Crown prince is virtuous. The greater reputation and prestige he had, the stabler the overall situation facing Taixia Country would be. In this case, I prefer to show my face in the public for the crown prince. No need to think too much about it!"
After Zhang Tie expressed his attitude, Yan Feiqing became silent. After staying with Zhang Tie for so long, Yan Feiqing found that Zhang Tie still kept his innocence.
"Alas!" Bai Suxian sprung up as if she thought up something, scaring Zhang Tie a lot.
"What's wrong?" Zhang Tie asked out of concern.
"If I attend this banquet, I have to customize a new set of costume. How should I dress on this occasion? And, the clothes have to be matched with proper jewelry. No, I will have to prepare for it right now…" Bai Suxian shouted as she ran away out of excitement.
Zhang Tie sighed inside, 'How could two women have such a great difference…'
"Do you remember Hongyi?" Yan Feiqing suddenly asked Zhang Tie.
Zhang Tie revealed an 'embarrassed' smile towards Yan Feiqing whose emotion was uncertain as he replied, "Erm, of course…"
"How do you prepare to arrange her?"
"Have you told her to return to Fantasy Women Palace?"
In Taixia Country, on one occasion, knights who had received the order to fight demons could be set free in advance——exchange demon knights' heads for freedom. Such regulation was very flexible. Taixia Country made this rule for some sects and major clans which had powerful knights. In some occasions, not each people would like to be restrained to the army or would like to fight in large formations. Therefore, as long as any human knight of these sects and major clans could bring back the heads of two demon knights on their own level as his or her military exploit, they would be set free.
When Yan Feiqing went to the frontline of Weishui River for the second time, she saved Zhang Tie and escorted him back to Xuanyuan Hill for medical treatment. At the same time, she dropped off some demon knights' heads so that Guo Hongyi could be set free in advance.
Zhang Tie heard about it from others after waking up.
"Hongyi couldn't stay in Fantasy Women Palace for the rest of her life…" Yan Feiqing threw a glance at Zhang Tie with a bit blush as she added, "If not being god-damn destined to meet you, how could Hongyi and I be in such an embarrassing relationship?"
Zhang Tie refuted in a serious look, "In Taixia Country, master and apprentice are not forbidden to fall in love with the same man. It's not the god-damn destiny, but real love. Never care about others' comments. No matter what, I would not lose hair. After I return to Fire-Dragon Bounty Territory in a few days, you'd better call her back. You need a good talk, so does she and I. Ahem, ahem…you may be master and apprentice in Fantasy Women Palace, but you could also be sisters in front of me…"
"Alas, you're really the destined god-damn star in our hearts!" Yan Feiqing let out a sigh gloomily.
Chapter 1441: Arrival of Zhang Tie's Family Members
Translator: WQL Editor: Aleem
3 days later, an airport in the periphery of Xuanyuan Hill.
It was a fine day with blue sky, white clouds and breeze. Zhang Tie came to the airport a few hours earlier out of excitement.
The airport of Xuanyuan Hill was almost the only airport exclusive for airboats.
Whenever Zhang Tie saw an airboat approaching from the north, he would watch it through the glass window of the lounge. Watching Zhang Tie's anxious look, Bai Suxian and Yan Feiqing couldn't help but laugh. Finally, at the sight of the familiar Iron-Dragon airboat approaching from the north and parking on the apron, Zhang Tie couldn't wait to rush out of the lounge…
After the airboat parked, a hatch door on one side slowly opened. The first one who rushed out of there was Zhang Chengba, the second son of Zhang Tie and Beverly, followed by a group of children: Zhang Chengxiao, Zhang Chengbing, Zhang Shini, Zhang Shixia, Alexander, Andre, Matvey, Anatoli, Victor, Igor, Oleg, Nigolas and Lev.
Except for Zhang Chenglei, Zhang Chengting and Zhang Chengpei, all the other 14 children of Zhang Tie had arrived.
At the sight of Zhang Tie, those children immediately charged at Zhang Tie as they shouted "Papa" like tiger cubs and little birds.
"Papa!"
"Papa!"
"Papa!"
Squatting on the ground, Zhang Tie opened his arms with a big smile before putting his arms around Zhang Chengba. After kissing Zhang Chengba's face, Zhang Tie had been surrounded by his kids. Hearing their shouts, Zhang Tie burst into laughter as he kissed their faces forcefully one after another.
These kids' ages ranged from 6 to 7. Due to inheritance, these kids were stronger than their peers.
Since he left Youzhou Province at the order of Xuanyuan Command on the 904th year of Black Iron Calendar, Zhang Tie had not seen these kids for almost 2 years. As for Zhang Tie, he had actually not seen these kids for 62 years. Therefore, both Zhang Tie and these kids were very thrilled to see each other.
"Papa, I missed you…" Zhang Chengshi put her arms around Zhang Tie's arm as she dropped off her tears.
Watching her daughter's tears, Zhang Tie was so moved that he hurriedly helped her wipe off her tears as he said kindly, "Shini, don't cry. Papa missed you too…"
"Papa, it's said that you're injured. Are you still in pain?" Zhang Shixia drew Zhang Tie's hand as she blinked her sparkling eyes and said, "Is that on your hand? Let me blow it off for you. When I fell off and broke my hand, mom said that it would not ache when you blow it…" After the little girl finished her words, she started to make her mouth bloated and blow Zhang Tie's hand.
"Younger sister, papa is a hero. Papa fought demons and saved a lot of people…" Alexander said as he watched Zhang Tie with an admiring look. After coming to Taixia Country for over 2 years, Alexander could already speak Hua language very fluently.
"Shini, papa is fine. Papa has already recovered his injuries. He's pretty good!" Zhang Tie kissed the little girl's face again before kneading Alexander's head.
Zhang Tie loved the two daughters the most. Watching her cute daughters, Zhang Tie felt that all he did in the frontline was worthwhile.
Watching Zhang Tie's fatherly smile and his kind look, Yan Feiqing and Bai Suxian revealed strange looks; especially Yan Feiqing who was in a daze.
Zhang Tie then walked towards the airboat, cradling Zhang Shini and Zhang Shixia.
At this moment, Linda showed his face at the hatch door, followed by Aimei and Aixue, Fiona and Beverly. They all watched Zhang Tie with tears in eyes.
Over these months when Zhang Tie was heavily injured and receiving medical treatment in Xuanyuan Hill, undoubtedly, his wives and concubines were concerned about him pretty much. However, they knew that it wouldn't do any help to Zhang Tie's recovery if they came to Xuanyuan Hill during that period. Therefore, they gave up coming here for the time being.
Zhang Tie's parents followed after Beverly. Zhang Yang came in the end.
Besides Zhang Tie's father and elder brother, all the women that got off the airboat had red eyes when they saw Zhang Tie again.
"Hahaha, come on, I've told you I'm fine. No more tears!" Zhang Tie burst into laughter as he turned around and shouted towards Yan Feiqing, "Qing'er, Suxian, come over here to greet our parents…"
After hearing Zhang Tie's words, Yan Feiqing moved to Zhang Tie's side lightly before lowering her body to one side towards Zhang Tie's parents by putting her hands on both sides and saying decently, "Papa, Mama, I'm Yan Feiqing…"
"Papa, Mama, I'm Suxian!" Bai Suxian imitated Yan Feiqing.
Zhang Tie's mother and father exchanged a glance with each other. After that, Zhang Tie's mother looked at Yan Feiqing from her head to her toe before hurriedly helping Yan Feiqing and Bai Suxian to stand up as she said, "We're a family now. No need to be that formal…"
Zhang Tie threw a glance at his elder brother. Given his elder brother's eye light, Zhang Tie knew that his parents had long known Yan Feiqing's identity.
Not only Zhang Tie's mother, but even Zhang Tie's elder brother, wives and concubines were glancing at Yan Feiqing stealthily. Given his elder brother's eye light, Zhang Tie knew that Zhang Yang had been conquered by his ability.
"It's not the right place to talk. Papa, mama, let's talk about it after returning to my manor!"
After greeting each other, even though they had a lot of words to say, it was not the proper place for them to talk at the airport. Zhang Tie waved his hand, fetching some vehicles.
Zhang Tie's elder brother and Zhang Tie's kids got on a sedan. Zhang Tie's wives and concubines got on a limo. Zhang Tie and his parents entered the same sedan.
It was knowledge of sharing vehicles. In this way, Zhang Tie's wives and concubines could communicate with each other privately earlier; so could Zhang Tie and his parents.
After all of them got on vehicles, with the convoy of some cars, the fleet started to drive towards the emperor's imperial city.
Chapter 1442: Domestic Affairs
Translator: WQL Editor: Aleem
"Ahh, Xuanyuan Hill is really as prosperous as that in legends…" Zhang Tie's dad couldn't stand to exclaim as he watched the buildings on both sides of the road through the window.
"Dad, mom, you could have a nice journey in Xuanyuan Hill. There're so many scenic spots and historical sites such as Heavenly Harp Lake, Heavenly Fairy Lake and Heavenly Music Lake outside the city and Golden Water River and Peach Mountain in the city. Many major human agencies are located in Xuanyuan Hill. Additionally, you could pay a visit to Gold and Power Market where you could see sorts of rarities from all the other continents and subcontinents. I always wanted to accompany you for a journey in Xuanyuan Hill and here's the chance…" Zhang Tie told his parents with a smile as he pointed at a huge complex which was hundreds of meters in height outside the window and said, "Look, dad, it's Human Pharmacists Union…"
"Oh, that's Human Pharmacists Union, I could…ahem, ahem…" Zhang Tie's dad suddenly stopped as he found Zhang Tie's mom gazing at him distantly with a strong killing qi.
Zhang Tie comforted her mom with a smile, "Mom, I'm fine. No need to worry about me. As you and dad finally got a chance to travel to Xuanyuan Hill, we would take a trip around this place!"
"Is that Yan Feiqing the very one whom you're about to marry?" Zhang Tie's mom whispered.
"Yes!" Zhang Tie threw a glance at the vehicle in front of them. His mom might not know that such a short distance indicated that Yan Feiqing could hear their dialogue clearly. "Qing'er and I met in the theater of operations. We went through thick and thin together and stayed in the tower of time for 6 decades. We've already got married privately. How do you feel about her, mom?"
"This girl has a good figure and a nice look. She has outstanding temperament too. She must be able to deliver healthy babies. Even your mom has not seen many girls like her. Now that you like her, your dad and I like her too, but…" Zhang Tie's mom became hesitant for a second before asking Zhang Tie in a low voice, "Zhang Yang said this girl has a greater battle strength even than the total of that of your former wives and concubines. Even Suxian couldn't defeat her. Is she a heavenly knight and an owner of a major sect in Taixia Country?"
"True, Qing'er is a heavenly knight and the owner of Fantasy Women Palace, Cloud Dream Mountain, Wuzhou Province, Taixia Country!"
"Does a heavenly knight have a greater battle strength than Commander Cheng?"
"Yes, she has a bit greater battle strength than Commander Cheng…"
"I observed her carefully, yet I couldn't see through her real age. It's said that the higher level a knight was, the elder she would be. Have you asked her real age…"
"Ahem, ahem, mom, I've really not asked her about that!" Zhang Tie kneaded his nose as he replied with a smile. In case of embarrassment, Zhang Tie dared not tell his parents that Yan Feiqing shared the times with Lord Huaiyuan. No matter what, Yan Feiqing remained young in front of him. Therefore, Zhang Tie didn't ever ask her about her real age. "No matter what, given her look, she's almost as young as Linda and Olina. Therefore, you'd better not care about that. No matter what, she's my wife and your daughter-in-law. Additionally, she has sound health and could still give birth to babies. In a couple of years, I will bring you some more grandsons…"
"She could still give birth to babies?" Zhang Tie's mom asked.
"Yes, she could…" Zhang Tie nodded forcefully.
"That's fine. That's fine…" Zhang Tie's mom finally became reassured as she continued, "How do you feel now…"
"I've already recovered. It's not a big deal. According to some gossips, I don't have a complete skin all over. Don't believe in that…" Zhang Tie patted his chest as if he was strong, causing loud sounds "Pah, pah". Finding that Zhang Tie had a good look and was as strong as before, Zhang Tie's parents finally became reassured.
Actually, Zhang Tie's physical condition was classified. Besides Bai Suxian, Yan Feiqing, the three national doctors and the crown prince who knew Zhang Tie's current physical condition, the public was told that Zhang Tie had completely recovered for the sake of humans in the holy war. This would frighten demons greatly and extremely arouse the morale of Taixia Country as a whole.
A divine dominator who had completely recovered could even frighten a heavenly demon knight.
A few months ago, Zhang Tie killed a heavenly demon knight by striking it 9 times with a rod; after that, he killed 5 shadow demon knights and consumed a thunder of nirvana. At least it was equal to saving a heavenly human knight indirectly. Zhang Tie's survival would definitely frighten demons a lot. After Zhang Tie exposed his ability as a divine dominator, the entire demon camp and the territory occupied by demons had almost been open to him freely unless sage-level demon knights. Even a solo heavenly demon knight might be killed by Zhang Tie in a short period, not to mention other knights below heavenly knights. Therefore, the demon army's offensive pace was disrupted by Zhang Tie. As a result, demons had to revamp their measures for defending the regions that they had occupied and the use of demon knights. Besides Weishui River had thawed, this was also a major reason for the human army and demon army to be in a stalemate.
It was no exaggeration to say that Zhang Tie himself almost curbed the aggressive attack of demon army at the bank of Weishui River and heavily crashed the demon army for the first time in Taixia Country. As was commented by Zuoqiu Mingyue——Without General Mushen, Weishui River would remain dark like long night forever!
"Elder Muyuan said you're a divine dominator…" Zhang Tie's dad finally got a chance to ask Zhang Tie out of curiosity after Zhang Tie's mom finished the "important" question. Zhang Ping knew what were knights. However, he had no idea about divine dominators. Therefore, he had long wanted to ask Zhang Tie about that.
Elder Muyuan got off the airboat in the end. When Zhang Tie greeted his parents and wives, Elder Muyuan stood on Zhang Yang's side. He just nodded towards Zhang Tie without talking too much with him. At this moment Elder Muyuan was sitting in the same vehicle with Zhang Yang and Zhang Tie's kids.
"Yes, I'm a divine dominator. It's a profession that I've advanced previously. It's one of my trump cards. I had to expose it while fighting demons above the bank of Weishui River…"
"Is a divine dominator something?"
"Of course, it's what your son uses to stay alive!" Zhang Tie said with great confidence.
"Can you explain it in details?" Zhang Tie's dad asked out of curiosity. Even Zhang Tie's mom turned around and watched Zhang Tie seriously.
Zhang Tie replied with a smile, "If your son wants to kill someone below knight, I only need to throw a glance at him or her…"
"Cut the crap…" Zhang Tie��s dad pretended to be serious as he had not imagined that he only got a "joke" as a reply. He then flicked at Zhang Tie's head as he said, "Don't cheat me. How could you kill a person only by throwing a glance at him or her…"
Zhang Tie remained smiling, "When mom throws a glance at you, dad always stay still."
Zhang Tie's dad blushed slightly as he coughed, "Ahem, ahem…when?"
"Almost like that…" Zhang Tie's mom said.
When this topic was shifted to a domestic affair, Zhang Tie's dad and mom both felt that Zhang Tie was joking with them…
…
In another vehicle where Zhang Tie's wives and concubines were in, Yan Feiqing showed her strong qi field as a heavenly knight and confirmed her principal position in the hearts of the other wives and concubines of Zhang Tie's with only one question.
In that limo, Yan Feiqing looked around the other women calmly as she told them using her battle qi.
"Zhang Tie is now the pillar of Zhang family. He's responsible for all-purpose medicament and Fiery Oil and Fiery-Dragon Bounty Territory of Zhang family. It's in the holy war. It's full of uncertainties like what Zhang Tie has experienced these months. If something happened to Zhang Tie, the pillar of the Zhang family would fall. By then, nobody else in Huaiyuan Palace would be able to protect these things of Zhang family, not to mention Zhang family itself. Zhang family's all-purpose medicament and Fiery Oil would attract numerous hungry wolves. You and the kids of you and Zhang Tie might deteriorate to miserable situations. This is the survival of law in troubled times, which is dominated by battle strength. As for me, you might have already known. I'm the principal wife of Zhang Tie and Zhang family is my family. You're my sisters and Zhang Tie's kids are my kids. Even if Zhang Tie fell one day, I would also be able to protect this family from being invaded by foreign forces and ensure that Zhang kids could grow up and inherit the undertakings of Zhang family. Do you want to call me elder sister?"
The carriage was in silence for a few seconds. Even Bai Suxian who always had contradictions with Yan Feiqing admitted that Yan Feiqing was telling the truth. In this age, a heavenly knight's battle strength and influence were undeniable.
After hearing Yan Feiqing's words, Aimei and Aixue exchanged a glance with the others before lowering their heads towards Yan Feiqing and saying, "Elder sister, we're Aimei and Aixue…"
"Elder sister…" Linda, Beverly and Fiona also admitted in a few seconds.
Among Zhang Tie's wives and concubines, only Bai Suxian had a great background. All the others had to depend on Zhang Tie, except for Yan Feiqing.
As Zhang Tie had many wives and concubines, he might not feel pitiful lacking one; however, if Zhang Tie fell, Zhang family would be in great danger. In this world, there were very few heavenly knights. With Yan Feiqing's help, Zhang family could be much safer in troubled times. Yan Feiqing believed that those women were not too stupid to call her elder sister and admit her principal status in the Zhang family.
Yan Feiqing threw a glance at Bai Suxian. Bai Suxian also lowered her head as she called again in a different mood, "Elder sister…"
At this moment, Bai Suxian realized that she would be repelled out of the circle of Zhang Tie's women if she didn't admit Yan Feiqing's principal status in Zhang family, which would be much worse than lowering her head in front of Yan Feiqing.
As she couldn't match Yan Feiqing on battle strength, Bai Suxian had to lower her head in front of Yan Feiqing even though she was a princess.
…
The fleet passed by many prosperous streets and finally entered the emperor's imperial city through the Sheep Bridge over Golden Water River and returned to Qianji Manor.
Even though Zhang Tie's parents, wives and concubines had seen the world, they were still shocked by the magnificence of Qianji Manor.
After knowing that Qianji Manor was a former royal garden and was gifted to Zhang Tie by the crown prince, Zhang Tie's dad felt intense as he asked, "Erm…I was told that the land in Xuanyuan Hill is worth a lot. Would it be too luxurious for us to live here…"
"Trust me, dad, if mom and you come to Xuanyuan Hill in the future, you could live here for as long as you like!" Zhang Tie explained as he burst into laughter.
Compared to Zhang Ping's intense look, Zhang Tie's kids were pretty thrilled about this new environment. After getting off the vehicle, they had been running here and there.
"It was younger sister Suxian who has been preparing for domestic affairs these days. How about having younger sister Suxian show these younger sisters their courtyards and rooms? It's a long trip. You must have a lot of inconvenience on the airboat. How about getting washed before having supper together?"
After getting off the vehicle, Zhang Tie found that Yan Feiqing's qi field grew much stronger while the other women respected Yan Feiqing pretty much; they even called her elder sister. Even Bai Suxian became much more docile in front of her.
Zhang Tie's mom kept glancing at Yan Feiqing stealthily. After finding that Yan Feiqing could manage the other wives and concubines and arrange everything orderly like how a principal wife should behave, Zhang Tie's mom was very satisfied too as she said, "Hmm, just do as Feiqing said. I'm a bit tired. We'd better take some rest before having supper…"
After Zhang Tie's mom opened her mouth, it was fixed.
After everybody else settled down, Zhang Tie came to Zhang Yang's room. After a brief chat, Zhang Tie pushed a gold crate in front of Zhang Yang.
"What's this?" Zhang Yang asked as he watched that crate out of curiosity.
"The fruit of cross-realm flower couldn't be taken directly. I will give some to you after having people deal with them so that elder brother could satisfy my elder sisters-in-law. It's something of abyss dragon lizard inside this crate. With it, elder brother would definitely keep one night stand no matter how many wives and concubines you have…"
Zhang Yang widely opened his eyes as he said, "Abyss dragon lizard? Doesn't it only exist in legends? Is it the penis of an abyss dragon lizard…"
"Right, I found it in the underground magma. What an able pharmacist, elder brother!" Zhang Tie replied with a smile as he blinked his eyes, "I even prepared a piece for our dad. I wonder whether dad will appreciate me or not…"
"Watch out, mom would beat your head if she finds out!" Zhang Yang smiled.
"Don't worry. I won't let her know!"
"Have you received the invitation for the national banquet from the crown prince?" Zhang Yang asked Zhang Tie suddenly.
"What? You've also got one?" Zhang Tie became stunned.
"I received it when I replenished materials in Lingzhou Province two days ago. The crown prince had someone wait in Lingzhou Province in order to give the invitation card to me. Both Elder Muyuan and our parents received one too. It's very considerate!" Zhang Yang watched Zhang Tie as he said, "We all share your glory, I wonder about your opinion?"
"Let nature take its course. At least the crown prince treats me considerately as of now. It's not bad for the crown prince to supervise the national affairs. By far, even if Meng Shidao became prime minister, I wouldn't fear that!" Zhang Tie said with an arrogant smile, "I'm not even afraid of abyss king and hundreds of thousands of demon knights, not to mention the Gobbling Party. I believe that the crown prince would balance the gains and losses and restrict the Gobbling Party to a certain degree…"
"Hmm, I see!" Zhang Yang nodded.
After that, Zhang Tie came to his parents' room and gave the same gift to his dad. Then, he came to Elder Muyuan's room. After a brief talk with Elder Muyuan, he learned about the current situation facing Youzhou Province and Huaiyuan Palace and left the same gift to Elder Muyuan before returning to his own courtyard and meeting Yan Feiqing.
…
"Husband, I want a baby too!" Yan Feiqing tightly hugged Zhang Tie the moment she saw Zhang Tie as she whispered and turned into a tender woman in Zhang Tie's arms once again.
"Ahh, why…" Zhang Tie was amazed.
"When I saw you play with your kids, I suddenly realized that my life would be incomplete as a woman if I don't give birth to a baby for you!" Yan Feiqing's eyes turned enchanting as she asked, "You told your mom in the vehicle that you wanted me to deliver some more kids for you. Did you cheat her?"
"Of course not!"
"I want now!"
"Now?"
"Now!"
Zhang Tie immediately cradled Yan Feiqing and strode towards the building where the other women were arranged in.
"Ahh, not over there…" Yan Feiqing shouted in Zhang Tie's arms. After knowing what Zhang Tie was going to do, her face turned red at once.
"You're good sisters. Of course, you should share good things together…" Zhang Tie smirked, ignoring Yan Feiqing's symbolic struggle, and entering the building…
Chapter 1443: An Unexpected Trouble
Translator: WQL Editor: Aleem
On April 3rd, the 906th year of Black Iron Calendar, when demons invaded Taixia Country, a high-level national banquet was held in the emperor's imperial palace of Xuanyuan Hill once again after two years in silence, arousing a great shock in the powers of Xuanyuan Hill…
Yan Feiqing remained elegant, distant and arrogant as she didn't have a liking for such an eye-catching occasion. Zhang Tie's parents were not used to it as they didn't feel like being the focus of the public. Therefore, after a negotiation, Zhang Tie determined to attend the banquet with Bai Suxian, Linda, Fiona, Beverly, Aimei and Aixue, Zhang Yang and Elder Muyuan. All the other family members just stayed in Qianji Manor.
Although Zhang Tie intended to visit the luxurious scene and the top figures in the imperial palace with his parents and have them enjoy the honor of being the parents of a divine dominator, Zhang Tie's parents were not interested in fame and wealth. Therefore, Zhang Tie didn't force them to do so.
As for Yan Feiqing, Zhang Tie couldn't force her to attend the banquet either. Perhaps, he could do whatever he wanted in the bedroom with the other women in front of Yan Feiqing, he might make Yan Feiqing embarrassed to share a man with a lot of women under the gaze of so many people.
Over these days, Zhang Tie showed them around Xuanyuan Hill every day, pleasing his parents and kids very much, not to mention his wives and concubines. After being "lubricated" by Zhang Tie for a few days, his wives and concubines looked much brighter.
Zhang Tie and Zhang Yang didn't need to make any preparations for this banquet except for changing a set of clothes; however, his wives and concubines had already prepared for it.
The most frequent topic among these women were types of dresses, shoes, jewelry, make-up, hairstyles, perfume, etc..
At a bit later than 5 pm, April 3rd, Zhang Tie and his family representatives left the Qianji Manor. Zhang Yang and Elder Muyuan sat in the same vehicle; Zhang Tie and his wives and concubines sat in another vehicle. After leaving Qianji Manor, the two vehicles drove all the way towards the emperor's imperial palace.
Women were still tweeting in the vehicle at this moment. They were discussing their jewelry, hairstyles and costumes. Sitting in the vehicle and watching his enchanting wives and concubines in rich dresses, Zhang Tie felt a bit pitiful although being satisfied.
If Lan Yunxi and Pandora were here and the holy war didn't break out, he would not feel pitiful anymore as his life would have been perfect; even if he were to become a commoner from now on. This scene was what he had been pursuing for since he was young.
"I've not imagined that I could enter the imperial palace of Taixia Country along with you and attend such a high-level national banquet…" Linda said as she put her head against Zhang Tie's shoulder and whispered, "When I managed my garments store in Blapei, I could never imagine about such a life. Daily life now is like a dream. It's like what a lord's wives enjoy…"
Linda wore a western, blue, brilliant bobtail in wavy hair. With top-notch jewelry over her neck and wrists, Linda looked beautiful and fascinating; especially her elegant, calm and sexy feminity which attracted Zhang Tie the most. After giving birth to two babies, her fragrance and sweet feminity grew richer and made her more attractive to Zhang Tie.
"You worth it. I think you could match all the good things in the world. Although there're so many lord's wives in this world, there's only one Linda. You should know that you're more dignified than those lord's wives in others' eyes!" Zhang Tie raised Linda's petty face using one hand as he sniffed the fragrance that was emitted from her dense maroon hair and kissed her lip.
Linda closed her eyes as she responded to Zhang Tie fervently.
"Elder sister Linda, stop it. I couldn't help but join you…"
Hearing their "kiss", all the other women who were discussing became quiet at once. Realizing that all the other women were watching her and hearing Fiona's voice, Linda felt bashful as she separated from Zhang Tie.
Zhang Tie burst into laughter as he patted the seat on his side and drew Fiona over here. After kissing Fiona's face too, he said, "I found that you might be very excited about such a banquet."
"Of course, don't you know that all the women are banquet-manic?" Fiona said with a sweet smile.
Scratching his head, Zhang Tie asked, "Why?"
"Beverly, tell him why."
"Because women could show their beautiful look, figure, wealth and happiness to others in the most elegant gesture in such banquets, and this is the meaning of their existence…" Beverly said with a smile, "You could treat this banquet as special showtime and catwalk for women. Each woman dreams of being eye-catching on such an occasion…"
"It's a woman's largest achievement to gain other women's admiration and jealousy on such an occasion. Of course, if we find women more beautiful and elegant than us on such occasions, we would learn from them and try to surpass them next time. Am I clear?" Fiona kissed Zhang Tie's face.
"Haha, now that you like it, when we return to Fiery-Dragon Bounty Territory, you could hold such a banquet monthly and invite whoever you want!"
"Really?"
"Really!"
All the women cheered up.
…
Qianji Manor was located in the most prime location of the emperor's imperial city. It was only less than 20 minutes' ride.
The imperial palace of Taixia Country was almost the largest one for humans. Starting from the Jade Belt River in the periphery of the imperial palace, the radius of the entire imperial palace was 6 miles. It occupied almost 200 square miles, which was even larger than that of many cities in subcontinents and continents. The national banquet was held in Anyan Palace in the east of the imperial palace.
Vehicles from Qianji Manor had to be checked twice when they passed by Jade Belt River. After presenting the invitation card for the national banquet, they went across a bridge on Jade Belt River and entered the imperial palace from a palace gate.
When the bus crossed Jade Belt River, Zhang Tie felt that marvelous arch door in his mind sea which linked Castle of Black Iron slightly trembled. At the same time, the arch door became almost transparent in his mind sea and was covered by mist.
Zhang Tie watched the palace wall which was as thick and tall as gate tower and the imperial guards in gold armors as he sensed the qi which forced the portal accessing to Castle of Black Iron to hide as he sighed about the magnificence of the imperial households of Taixia Country.
When Zhang Tie came to Xuanyuan Hill last time, he loitered above the imperial palace stealthily. At that time, he could sense a powerful, terrifying qi in the imperial palace. Additionally, in those trouble-reappearance situations where he left when he came to Xuanyuan Hill for the first time, the territory in Jade Belt River was completely dark. Heller said that there was a rarity which was not inferior to Castle of Black Iron in the imperial palace, which caused empty inside trouble-reappearance situations. When Zhang Tie entered the imperial palace, he couldn't sense the hidden qi anymore.
Of course, that hidden qi didn't disappear, but Zhang Tie's spiritual energy level couldn't resonate with that hidden qi anymore. However, Castle of Black Iron could still sense the existence of that hidden qi while covering itself.
After getting that point, Zhang Tie could only force a bitter smile. One of his purposes to attend this national banquet was to sense the hidden rarity in the imperial palace in a close distance. As was imagined, that rarity couldn't be sensed by everyone.
"Do you feel anything special in the imperial palace?" Zhang Tie asked Bai Suxian.
"Strict defense and magnificence. Why…" Bai Suxian asked Zhang Tie as she blinked her beautiful eyes.
"Nothing, I also feel good here…" Zhang Tie replied with a smile.
It seemed that Bai Suxian didn't sense the hidden qi either. Therefore, Zhang Tie put it aside for the time being. In the final analysis, Zhang Tie was just curious about that rarity in the imperial palace. He didn't cast covet on it. Therefore, he didn't carry any metal burden.
…
Zhang Tie's vehicle parked after passing the first palace gate less than 1.2 miles. The moment it parked, waiters had already opened the doors. Zhang Tie got off the vehicle first. After that, he stood aside from the door and stretched out a hand, helping his wives and concubines to get off the vehicle.
A western building was hundreds of meters away in front of Zhang Tie. Being high and magnificent, the stony building occupied a wide area. It was Anyan Palace.
Its middle gate and the 4 smaller side doors had been opened. 5 red carpets extended to the outside from inside the palace.
At this moment, many limos parked in those red carpets as big figures were getting off their vehicles and entering Anyan Palace through red carpets, raising their heads.
Imperial guards in gold armors were standing on both sides of the red carpets, raising their heads. Imperial photographers were converging on both sides of the red carpets and recording the images of figures who attended the national banquet, causing rising smoke due to burning magnesium powder. These photos would be precious historical records in 100 years.
The attendants were top powers in Xuanyuan Hill, diplomats and imperial households from other continents and subcontinents who lived in Xuanyuan Hill. It was no exaggeration to say that this banquet collected top dignitaries of different skin colors in different costumes. Given their costumes, it was like a universal expo on Hua costumes.
"I really gained great honor from you today, but I feel very intense staying with you. I will go inside with Elder Muyuan ahead of you…" Zhang Yang in ceremonial robe came over here to notice Zhang Tie when the latter got off the vehicle. After that, Zhang Yang and Elder Muyuan walked upstairs along the middle red carpet under the guidance of a waiter.
When Zhang Tie and his wives and concubines got off the vehicle, they rightly touched the middle red carpet. Although the red carpet in the middle was broadest, it was least occupied. At the sight of it, Zhang Tie had known that this red carpet could only be available to the most honorable figures. The moment he and the 6 women got off their vehicle and stood on the middle red carpet, they had become the focus of the occasion as onlookers especially those on the other 4 red carpets fixated onto Zhang Tie.
Besides Zhang Tie's young look, his 6 women were also brilliant. Bai Suxian, Aimei and Aixue wore traditional Hua imperial longuettes which looked pretty noble. Linda, Fiona and Beverly wore sexy and brilliant western ceremonial robes. In 6 colors and styles, they were like a myriad of stars surrounding the moon, making them pretty eye-catching.
"Let's go. Stop looking around. Only the most honorable guests could be able to walk on this red carpet besides the prime minister, grand justice and military secretary, heavenly knights and human lords. Previously, I walked on this middle red carpet with my father. Today, I get to walk on it with my husband. Let's go…" Bai Suxian said as Zhang Tie felt his left arm being curbed by Bai Suxian. Zhang Tie smiled as he stretched out his right arm so that Linda could curb it. After those women exchanged a glance with each other and smiled, they walked towards the middle gate of Anyan Palace in brilliance under the gaze of so many people.
"What a national banquet!" Zhang Tie sighed with emotions as he looked at the broad Anyan Palace on the red carpet.
"Anyan Palace could hold 10,000 people. Given its size, there're at least 3,000 attendants today!" Bai Suxian threw a glance at the other 4 red carpets as she added, "Additionally, at least half of them are female. We have to curb you well today; otherwise, we might have more sisters after this banquet…"
After hearing Bai Suxian's words, all the other 5 women giggled as they looked at Zhang Tie.
"Haha, am I that kind of person?" Zhang Tie asked as he kneaded his face.
"You're not that kind of a person, but many people want you to be that kind of a person today. Look how those women on the other 4 red carpets gazing at you. I'm afraid that they've already known who you're. After a short while, they might approach you in some way!" Bai Suxian said before pouting her mouth towards the other red carpets.
Zhang Tie looked over there along Bai Suxian's eye light. With some fountains, sculptures and gold-armored imperial guards in between, Zhang found some women were observing him with an interested look. A blonde in western imperial robe on the second red carpet from left directly ogled at him.
"Who're those on that red carpet?"
"They should be imperial households from other countries…"
…
"Qianji Immortal from Huaiyuan Palace…is…coming…"An official in red robe called at the sight of Zhang Tie and his wives and concubines; his sonorous sound filled the palace…
When the official finished his call, Zhang Tie and 6 women entered Anyan Palace. In a split second, the entire palace became quiet as everybody else fixated onto them.
If eye lights could focus on one point and increase temperature like sunlight, Zhang Tie's ceremonial robe might have been burned.
With a calm look, Zhang Tie and his women took seats under the gaze of so many people with the guidance of a waiter in Anyan Palace. Not until they sat down did Zhang Tie find that his seat was close to the highest seat on the left.
Zhang Yang and Elder Muyuan shared the same table with him. On this occasion, even though being a knight, Elder Muyuan still looked intense and serious. Not until he saw Zhang Tie did Elder Muyuan let a sigh of relief.
…
"Prime Minister Meng…is…coming…"
No sooner did Zhang Tie take a seat than another name was called from the middle gate.
Zhang Tie looked at the middle gate as he saw Meng Shidao entering the palace from the middle gate calmly in immortal official robe.
With a smile, Meng Shidao looked easygoing and decent. After entering the palace, Meng Shidao threw a glance at Zhang Tie. When he looked straight into Zhang Tie's eyes, he slightly nodded towards Zhang Tie. Zhang Tie also nodded towards Meng Shidao with a smile.
That was how things went on official occasions. Even though being hostile against each other and couldn't wait to beat the opponent to death, you shouldn't show your animosity on this occasion.
"Engineering Minister Yu…is…coming…"
Another influential figure entered closely after Meng Shidao. Like how Meng Shidao did, that person also threw a glance at Zhang Tie.
Meng Shidao and Yu Lianqing's table was dozens of meters away on the opposite side of Zhang Tie. According to seniority, Yu Lianqing sat in the first place as Meng Shidao sat in second place next to him.
All the influential figures had almost arrived and time was nearly up. The crown prince would arrive in a few minutes.
On this occasion, Zhang Tie didn't think that anyone would dare to find him trouble. However, at this moment, a person opposite to Zhang Tie suddenly stood up as he gazed at Zhang Tie with sparkling eyes. The moment he opened his mouth, he had been the focus of everybody else in the palace.
"I've long heard that Qianji Immortal is dissolute. That's real. It's really admirable for immortal to fight demons above the bank of Weishui River and save hundreds of millions of people!" That official stood up as he cupped his hands towards Zhang Tie. Closely after that, his voice became spirited, "However, one person couldn't determine the fate of humans in this holy war. With fiery oil, average fighters could fight demons and save numerous commoners. It's said that immortal grasps the recipe of fiery oil, although Fang Keyan is humble, I expect immortal to share the recipe of fiery oil with the public for the sake of the people on behalf of trillions of commoners; instead of enjoying the profit of fiery oil alone and ignoring the overall situation facing Taixia Country in the holy war…"
After saying that, that person deeply bowed to Zhang Tie.
Chapter 1444: Counterattack
Translator: WQL Editor: Aleem
Zhang Tie became clear-minded at once!
These days, Zhang Tie was recuperating in Xuanyuan Hill. He had not completely recovered yet. Additionally, with the concern of His Majesty Changying, Zhang Tie gradually relaxed his vigilance. Previously, Zhang Tie thought that nobody would come here to find him trouble as he just attended this national banquet out of his respect for the crown prince. However, the moment Fang Keyan opened his mouth, Zhang Tie had realized that he was too naive. The so-called national banquet had become a white vengeance targeting him.
He was in Xuanyuan Hill, the capital of Taixia Country and the city of cities, the most prosperous and remarkable place and the most dangerous place for humans.
Human heart was most dangerous.
Although Fang Keyan looked impassioned, selfless and people-oriented, his last sentence exposed his malicious original intention——Immortal, please expose your recipe of fiery oil to the public for the sake of people's well-being; instead of enjoying the profit alone and ignoring the overall situation facing humans in the holy war…
If Zhang Tie didn't expose the recipe of fiery oil to the public, he would become a selfish person and a crafty sycophant who ignored the life or death of the commoners and the overall situation facing humans in the holy war for his own profit.
Even though Zhang Tie invented fiery oil, if he didn't comply with Fang Keyan's suggestion, he would be guilty; instead of having made meritorious services.
With such a vicious crime, Zhang Tie felt pretty disappointed all of a sudden.
Who told Fang Keyan to say it at this moment?
Zhang Tie didn't believe that it was Fang Keyan's opinion. Given Fang Keyan's official robe, he was just a Class IV official. Although he might be something in a province, he was nothing in Xuanyuan Hill. Therefore, he must have a reliance.
The first culprit occurred to Zhang Tie's mind was the crown prince. However, he vetoed this whim at once.
Even though the crown prince had the ambition to control fiery oil, he would never choose to make him embarrassed at this moment. Because Zhang Tie attended this national banquet out of his respect to the crown prince. If he was embarrassed on this occasion, it indicated that the crown prince was ruining his own power. As long as the crown prince was not too silly, he would never do such a stupid thing.
Zhang Tie instantly fixated onto Meng Shidao and Yu Lianqing. Meng Shidao's slight frown and Yu Lianqing's faint furious look puzzled Zhang Tie.
The second power that occurred to Zhang Tie's mind was the Gobbling Party. If the Gobbling Party found him trouble at this moment, they could meet many purposes at the same time. Firstly, they could ruin Zhang Tie's reputation; secondly, they could grab away fiery oil from Zhang Tie; thirdly, they could break the relationship between Zhang Tie and the crown prince so that the crown prince would depend more on the Gobbling Party.
However, Zhang Tie slightly wavered his mind at the sight of Meng Shidao's frown. He was not sure whether it was related to the Gobbling Party or that Meng Shidao intended to kick off the Gobbling Party using him.
'Who else?'
When Zhang Tie was racking his mind rapidly, Fang Keyan revealed a bizarre smile as he watched Zhang Tie with bright eyes. He continued in a more generous and aggressive tone, "The profit of a family and the profit of the country, the profit of a person and the profit of humans in the holy war, mere worldly possessions and the righteousness, which one is greater? I don't believe that immortal is not aware of it."
"It's a national banquet. We don't talk about national affairs. Watch out your words, Director Fang…" Yu Lianqing opened his mouth to remind Fang Keyan with a bit fury as the grand justice.
"Grand justice, please forgive me!" Fang Keyan bowed deeply towards Yu Lianqing. Closely after that, he straightened up his body and said in a selfless look, "Immortal Qianji is not an official. Additionally, this humble official could barely meet immortal in usual days. Now that I could have a chance to see immortal today, I have to say something to him. Even though it's a bit rude, hopefully, immortal could make a decision as soon as possible…"
After hearing Fang Keyan's words, Zhang Yang and Elder Muyuan on Zhang Tie' side were driven mad and would like to spring up and refute him. However, Zhang Tie threw a glance at them as he slightly waved his hand towards them, calming them down.
Zhang Tie revealed a faint smile as he replied, "Since we made the first drop of fiery oil in Fiery-Dragon Bounty Territory, fiery oil has spread over Taixia Country over the past 2 years. There are already thousands of fiery oil production bases across the country. Our fiery oil weapons have already been received by the fighters of each corps in the Western Theater of Operations. This year, we would start to provide them to second-tiered corps in the theater of operations. The air cavalries of Taixia Country also began to take shape. Even Xuanyuan Hill have got fiery oil planes, buses and yachts. I wonder which new technology, invention and thing could realize such rapid development on the premise that its recipe is not exposed to the public over the past 1,000 years? Therefore, the recipe of fiery oil has long been exposed to the country. We just kept it a secret for demons, Heavens Reaching Church and Three-eye Association. After the remnants of demons and Heavens Reaching Church realized the threat of fiery oil weapons, they have been thinking about getting the recipe of fiery oil. If Sagus the abyss king heard your words, it would definitely treat you as its bosom friend…��
After hearing Zhang Tie's words, Fang Keyan suddenly changed his face as he sneered calmly, "Immortal Qianji, don't smite me with the tongue…"
"I didn't." Zhang Tie smiled as he waved his hand towards a waiter on his side. Closely after that, he took out a letter and had the waiter give it to Yu Lianqing.
Thousands of people fixated onto the letter out of curiosity. So did Yu Lianqing. When the waiter approached him with a tray, Yu Lianqing took that letter and read it.
All of a sudden, Yu Lianqing changed his face as he raised his head and watched Zhang Tie with a shocked look.
Zhang Tie said with a smile, "I am really shocked by the deep penetration of demons and Heavens Reaching Church to Xuanyuan Hill besides Han Zhengfang…"
Zhang Tie's words immediately beat Fang Keyan into hell. After reading the letter, Yu Lianqing had to make a decision right away.
The grand justice looked at the gate as he moved his lip. The others immediately knew that he was sending an order using his battle qi.
In a split second, two gold-armored knights had appeared in front of Fang Keyan heroically. Closely after that, they had dislocated Fang Keyan from head to toe. Then, they caught the arms and the other key body parts of Fang Keyan and took him away rapidly.
When he was caught, Fang Keyan gazed at Zhang Tie with a shocked and horrified look as he wondered how could Zhang Tie have the grand justice make such a decision in such a short period. Honestly, even if his words irritated the crown prince in the imperial palace, as he was righteous, he would be demoted or fired in the worst scenario; instead of being caught by imperial guards right away.
It happened so fast that nobody knew why the grand justice sent an order to catch Fang Keyan the moment he read the letter.
Thankfully, those attendants were all foreign ambassadors and imperial households who had seen the world and been used to various emergencies. Although this official was taken away, it didn't arouse any turmoil and discussion.
However, Zhang Tie's method refreshed people's recognition and respect for him.
Immortal Qianji's trickery was not limited to battlefields.
Zhang Tie looked around all the other foreign ambassadors and imperial households with a smile. When he found all the others were listening to him carefully, he continued, "As it's in the holy war, fiery oil is definitely not exclusive to Zhang family. As I grew up in Waii Subcontinent, I know the hardships of commoners in the holy war. Some of my wives also came from subcontinents. I treat all the human countries equally. This year, Fiery-Dragon Bounty Territory will choose partners from continents and subcontinents to produce fiery oil!"
Soon after Zhang Tie finished his words, those foreign ambassadors and imperial households had become thrilled as the entire palace became fervent once again. The little trouble seemed to have been forgotten by them at once.
As for Fang Keyan who had just been drawn away, who could still remember his name?
At this moment, the musicians played music when the crown prince showed up.
The crown prince looked a bit gloomy as he forced a bitter smile. What happened just now had been reported to the crown prince. After hearing that some official dared find Zhang Tie trouble on this occasion and ruined the relationship between him and Zhang Tie, the crown prince had already been driven mad…
After coming to the rostrum of Anyan Palace, the crown prince threw a glance at Zhang Tie out of apology. He then slightly nodded towards Zhang Tie. After Zhang Tie revealed a smile, the crown prince finally controlled his fury as he started to give a keynote speech, which indicated that the national banquet had come to a start officially…