5-5 -- 5-8

Book 5 Chap 5 – Secret discussion of the grand plan

Xiang Shaolong came to Li Mu's Great General Residence in Handan, over a thousand men and horses were gathered in the open area within the walls, all decked out as if they are about to leave immediately.

Xiang Shaolong's heart sunk and when the guard took him to see Li Mu, Li Mu happened to walk out from the building, all dressed in his military attire. When he saw Xiang Shaolong, he pulled him aside and said, "There's no hope for Great Zhao. His Majesty summoned me to the palace today and wants me to return to the northern border immediately to deal with the Xiong Nus. He did not give me a chance to bring up Zhao Ni's matter at all and even said openly that Zhao Mu will be in charge of Handan. You better leave quickly! Or else you might lose your life."

King Xiaocheng's reaction is obviously beyond the expectations of this famed general.

Li Mu continued in a low voice, "A lot of commanders within Handan used to be my subordinates. I have told them about you and instructed them to help you secretly." He then told him a few names.

He added, "If Zhao Mu sends people to go after you, you can escape to the northern border. As long as you're within my region of power, I will have a way to protect you and even his Majesty can't do anything about that."

Xiang Shaolong did not expect that this person whom he has only met 3 times would actually have such strong feelings of friendship and chivalrous. He was so touched that he was at a loss for words.

Li Mu removed his sword and pressed it to him, "This sword is called 'Blood Wave' and a lot more times better than Flying Rainbow. It can cut a flying strand of hair and slice through enemy's armor like air. With your out of the world swordplay, having this would be akin to adding wings to a tiger. Do no reject, or else I will look down on you."

Hot tears streamed out from Xiang Shaolong's eyes as he received this precious sword with the frightening name.

Li Mu patted his shoulder and said, "Wherever can accommodate you, just go to that place! Maybe one day we will meet on the battlefield and by then we're serving different masters and we may have to fight to the death. I will definitely not give way and you must do the same to me as well."

After he finished his words he laughed loudly, with seemingly unending sadness and bravery. He then got up his horse and left his residence, towards his journey north.

Xiang Shaolong's feelings were mixed as he looked at him numbly and for a moment felt all alone in the world.

He took the sword out for a look and saw on the especially long and shiny sword, there seems to be red lines on the body, looking like waves.

On the pommel of the sword were the words 'Blood Wave' written in the ancient form.

The joy from last night has suddenly flown away without a trace and the only thing he can do now is to rely on his own intelligence and ability and make sure that the Wu family and those that he love will be able to leave this lawless place safely.

Xiang Shaolong left the Great General Residence feeling at a loss.

Without a highly respected man like Li Mu handling the situation, no matter how unhappy the military is with Zhao Mu, they would not dare to risk the lives of their whole clan and speak up about Zhao Ni's case, and no one will dare to stand on his side. He has no wish to implicate others too, so now he can only rely on the Wu family and himself.

Li Mu has been ordered to return to the northern border, the military world in the state of Zhao all knows clearly the King's wishes, which is to stand on the same side as Zhao Mu and he, Xiang Shaolong, is Zhao Mu's biggest thorn in the flesh so naturally he will have difficulty keeping himself alive.

Not many will be willing to help others in distress, but there'll be a lot of people who will gladly rub salt into wound, because they can strike a blow to the Wu family and at the same time ingratiate themselves with Zhao Mu.

Now the biggest question is, when will Zhao Mu gain the King of Zhao's agreement to get rid of the Wu family and Xiang Shaolong.

Is there a way to delay the King of Zhao from making this decision?

Just as he returned to the Wu fortress feeling troubled, Tao Fang came up and said, "That Chu person called Dan Jin has been captured and locked in our jail. However this is a very stubborn person and refused to talk at all. Now we're waiting to see what you suggest, maybe we might have to torture him seriously."

Xiang Shaolong seems to see a ray of hope and asked, "Have you searched his bags?"

Tao Fang sighed, "It's just some unimportant stuff. With Zhao Mu's cunningness, he will never let others catch hold of him so easily." He continued, "Even if this person is willing to cooperate obediently and stand out to testify against Zhao Mu, Zhao Mu can still push all blame away and instead point out that we're accusing him. Hai! Do you think King Xiaocheng will believe his man or us?"

Xiang Shaolong quietly sighed, "As long as we know clearly the relationship between Zhao Mu and the Chus, we'll be able to set a trap for him. That's why we cannot let go of this clue so easily."

By now the 2 of them have arrived at the back courtyard and entered a secret doorway in a building into the heavily guarded underground jail.

That Chu spy Dan Jin was tied on a wooden pillar, blood and dirt on his face, looking dispirited. Obviously he has suffered and he lowered his head without saying anything.

Although Xiang Shaolong pities him, but there's no other choice. This is like a war, to be lenient towards an enemy is akin to committing suicide.

Xiang Shaolong suddenly has an idea and pulled Tao Fang aside, "This person is obviously one who is not afraid of death, or else the Chus won't have sent him here to be in charge of such an important mission. But there is a limit to anyone's tolerance, as long as we can find that, we can destroy his will."

Tao Fang said with exasperation, "The question is what way?"

Xiang Shaolong replied, "This method is called relentless questioning. Find another 10 odd people and keep on asking him repeated questions, do not allow him toilet breaks or food and most importantly do not let him sleep. During questioning you must use strong light and shine it into his face, I'll want to see how long he can hold on."

This is the first time Tao Fang has heard of such a questioning method and asked doubtfully, "Will it really work?"

Xiang Shaolong replied with certainty, "I guarantee it will. Get someone to deal with the injuries on his body first, give him some clean clothes to change into and you can proceed."

He then told him some techniques on questioning and things to ask, making Tao Fang thinks that it all sounds very feasible before he left to look for Wu Yingyuan.

Wu Yingyuan is receiving a guest in the secret room and when he knows he has come, immediately invited him in.

He is a totally non-descript merchant, tall but with a dreadful face, his looks doesn't look appealing at all.

After Wu Yingyuan invited Xiang Shaolong for a seat, he said, "Shaolong! This is Mister Tu's most reliable man who has the reputation of being a resourceful strategist Mister Xiao Yuetan."

Xiang Shaolong thought to himself, so this is the secret envoy sent by Lu Buwei's number 1 headman, Tu Xian. So from this it seems that Lu Buwei is going all out to send Zhuji and her son back to Xianyang in the shortest time possible.

Xiao Yuetan is quite polite and said, "Before I came to Handan, I've already heard the great name of Master Xiang. Please do not be offended, but my face now is a fake one but due to uncontrollable circumstances, I cannot see others with my real looks."

Xiang Shaolong suddenly realized that this person is an expert in disguise, and no flaws could be seen at all on the surface. He had an idea and said, "So it means that Mister can turn the Crown Prince and his mother into any looks."

Xiao Yuetan nodded his head, "Master Xiang's train of thought is very quick, this is exactly one of the reason Master Tu send me here to Handan. But as for sneaking them out, it will have to depend on all of you."

Xiang Shaolong was about to say that it's not difficult at all to sneak them out but Wu Yingyuan gave him a kick under the table so he hurriedly swallowed his words.

Wu Yingyuan interrupted, "If we can save mother and son, how will Mister Lu receive us on his end?"

Only now did Xiang Shaolong suddenly realized that with their abilities, and with Xiao Yuetan's skills for disguise, it's not a problem saving mother and son at all. The difficulty is that the Wu family are all going to run away at the same time, that's why Wu Yingyuan is linking Yingzheng and his mother with the Wu family in order to force Lu Buwei to receive them as well.

Indeed Wu Yingyuan added, "The Hostage Residence is heavily guarded and ever since King Zhuangxiang ascended the throne, a troop of Imperial Guards have been stationed permanently in the residence. The city of Handan's strict security is also famed throughout the land so other than a forceful attack, there is no other way. But Mister Xiao need not worry, we have already made plans and can guarantee that we will send both mother and son out of the city without any danger to them."

Xiang Shaolong knows that he is exaggerating, there's no grand plan to save them yet but if it was him, he can only do the same thing as well and lie to gain the other party's trust.

Xiao Yuetan replied, "My Master has discussed this matter with King Zhuangxiang. When the time comes our army will pretend to attack Prince Taiyuan and attempt to take over the city to lure the Zhao's attention while Master Tu will personally lead a troop of elite soldiers and infiltrate into the Zhao border to receive you. As long as you can reach the western bank of Northern Liaoyang's lake, Master Tu will be able to escort you past the borders of Wei and Han back to our country." He paused and asked, "Can I first listen to your marvelous plan."

Xiang Sholong secretly thought him formidable. He has said so many things, but in actual fact he did not reveal at all the position and route of the elite troops Tu Xian is leading, because if they are to work in tandem, Tu Xian should already be within Zhao borders.

Wu Yingyuan kicked him under the table again, obviously he wants him to immediately present a nonexistent plan to deal with this esteemed guest.

Xiang Shaolong has no plans at all, so he pretended to be mysterious and said, "Can Mister Xiao wait for 3 days, because the most important factor in the plan is to make contact with the mother and son and I am still in the midst of arranging this matter. Only after I get some headway on this can I make final confirmations on the other details."

Xiao Yuetan said a little unhappily, "At least you should reveal a little information to me?"

Xiang Shaolong said calmly, "Your appearance may lead to changes to the whole plan. We may even make use of your skill of disguise to let us leave Handan without anyone even realizing it, that's why we need to make new arrangements."

Xiao Yuetan's expression looks a little more soothed as he said, "I understand a little now!" He turned towards Wu Yingyuan and said, "I heard that the dace courtesans in the Wu family are famous throughout the land, how can I miss that."

Wu Yingyuan chortled, "I've made arrangements for you long ago!"

Xiang Shaolong knows that he's no longer needed so he slipped out.

As soon as he stepped out of Wu Yingyuan's inner residence, Xiang Shaolong felt extremely fatigued. The fortress is peaceful in the afternoon. In the garden the maids and children were playing ball, with waves of laughter. The snow on the ground has already been swept clean but icicles still hung on the tree branches.

When he walked past, the prettier maids were making eyes and flirting with him, hoping to gain his attention.

But this man who has always been flirtatious only felt a sense of sadness.

Although Wu Yingyuan said that he will move most of the people out of Zhao earlier, but everyone knows that it only means the closest and direct family members, as for the distant relatives and these maids in front of him here, they will all be heartlessly deserted and ultimately become the object of the Zhao people's wrath.

This is a helpless matter, even Xiang Shaolong can do nothing about it.

In this era where men vie with one another, a person's fate is not controlled in his own hands.

Heaven will suddenly turn into horrible hell!

He is not worried that Lu Buwei will betray them. In this unstable land with constant wars, the Wu family's livestock business is extremely important to the military and economy and with the formidable father and son team in the Wu family, they will certainly spread out part of their resources and won't leave anything to the Zhaos. That will be a fatal blow to the state of Zhao and they will find it even more difficult to survive. This is also the retribution of the King of Zhao.

Wu Yingyuan is a strategist, and has already planning everything quietly since a few years ago. Just looking at how he has taken a liking to him and married his most beloved daughter to him, is enough to proof how bold and far sighted he is.

Only this kind of person can live happily in a world like this.

Whistling was heard from behind.

Before he even have a chance to turn his head back for a look, Jing Jun is already next to him like a gust of wind, his attitude relaxed.

Xiang Shaolong asked curiously, "Succeeded?" Naturally he's asking about Zhao Zhi.

Jing Jun shook his head happily and said nonchalantly, "She kept on ignoring me, in the end I followed her home but she chased me away with her sword."

Xiang Shaolong was surprised, "Then I really cannot guess why you can still be so happy now!"

Jing Jun chuckled, "The interesting thing is that her father is actually a school teacher, he came out and reprimanded me sternly, saying a whole lot of things about see no evil and speak no evil or words to that meaning. Actually I didn't hear a single word he said, but on the account of his pretty daughter, I pretended to accept his teachings and lowered my head. Maybe he saw that I should be good in studies, he actually said something about teachings, and told me to go to school everyday and learn the ways of being a man. I just have to give him some smoked meat during the New Year or major festivals. Hee! At that time Zhao Zhi was almost mad with fury and kept staring at me, but there's nothing she can do at all. Brother Xiang don't you think this is exciting?"

Xiang Shaolong shook his head and laughed. To be harassed by someone like Jing Jun, Miss Zhao Zhi is going to be in trouble. She can't win him in fights nor can she chase him away, how is she going to deal with him?"

Jing Jun asked, "Where has Brother Teng gone?"

Xiang Shaolong replied, "He has a special task and has gone to the farm outside the city."

As he said this, he suddenly had an idea and asked, "Is there a way to make thousands of warhorses suddenly feel weak in the legs and unable to walk?"

Jing Jun furrowed his brows, "Just have to feed them some herbs, but if the quantity is too huge, it might be a little difficult."

Xiang Shaolong thought that he should be asking Wu Yingyuan this, since the Wu family has been in the livestock business for generations. No one would be more experienced than them.

Jing Jun said excitedly, "Is there anything you want me to do!"

Xiang Shaolong shook his head, "Just go and study in peace! But remember Brother Teng's instructions, don't go overboard, we still have to go to the Hostage Residence tonight."

Jing Jun gave a reply and left laughingly.

Xiang Shaolong stepped into his Hidden Dragon Abode and only thought of having a good sleep, not wanting to think of anything else.

When he woke up, it's already dusk.

Xiang Shaolong regained his spirit and he felt more optimistic and energetic as well.

Naturally Wu Tingfang and the rest served him meticulously.

Chunying and the rest of the maids looked a little upset, naturally they were blaming him for not having had his way with them today yet.

He can only laugh bitterly in his heart. His stamina may be a lot better than the average person, but resources are still limited and although the 4 ladies are young, beautiful and alluring, but more important matters are at hand so he can only suppress his urge.

During dinnertime, Lady Ya's loyal servant Zhao Da actually came looking for him.

Xiang Shaolong thought that Zhao Ya has something urgent so he hurriedly put down his bowl and chopsticks and invited him into the inner chamber.

Zhao Da has a strange expression and it was only after a while that he said, "Lady has no idea that I've come here to look for you."

Xiang Shaolong felt that something is very wrong and asked sincerely, "Just say it out boldly! I will be responsible for you."

Zhao Da said, "Actually for servants like us, we have no right to interfere in Lady's affairs at all, but in our hearts, the few of us brothers have already viewed you as the Master who is most worthy of our loyalty, therefore we can't be too concerned about other matters now!"

All the more Xiang Shaolong felt that something is amiss and egged him to reveal the purpose of his visit.

Zhao Da made up his mind bravely and said somberly, "After Lady returned, in less than a month, a person called Qi Yu who is a royalty from the state of Qi came to Handan as an envoy. This person looks even more handsome than Lian Jin, and famed in Qi for his intellect and swordsmanship, he's also an expert with the ladies. But after he arrived in Zhao, he seems to be smitten with Lady and was pursuing her relentlessly. His Majesty and Zhao Mu also kept creating chances for him to meet with Lady and it seems that Lady is a little interested in him too."

Xiang Shaolong was relieved on hearing that, he is very confident of himself in this aspect and he also does not believe that Zhao Ya, who has gone through difficult times with him, would have a change of feelings so easily.

Zhao Da looked at his expression and said anxiously, "There are some things which I must say even if I don't wish to. After Lady came back, she missed you so terribly that she has no appetite at all, and there were constant rumors in the city about your death. That Qi Yu took the opportunity and spent a few nights in Lady's room. It was only after your return that Lady kept her distance from him but he came last night again to harass Lady and only left this morning. Us brothers had a discussion before deciding to come and inform you."

Xiang Shaolong's heart froze immediately. With Zhao Ya's s.luttish character, in such a situation where she was pining for him, she really needs the consolation and excitement of other men in order to rid herself of the pain and loneliness.

Humans are not without feelings. Such matters between men and women, once started will be difficult to break off, especially when this Qi Yu is not any worse than him. That's why Zhao Ya is still being tangled up with him right now.

Hai!

A s.lut is a always s.lut. It may be something to do with the hormones in her body, to ask her not to have a man for a long period of time will be a very difficult matter.

A feeling of pained betrayal welled up in him.

Zhao Da lowered his voice and said, "If Lady is just having fun with that man, we won't do something so unscrupulous as to tell on her. We are extremely gratuitous towards Lady and are willing to die for her, but we're afraid that not only is she being cheated of her feelings and body, there might be something else and if it harms you, it won't be worth it."

Xiang Shaolong was stunned, "What is it all about?"

Zhao Da said painfully, "We have been secretly checking on this Qi Yu and realized that every time after he meets Lady, he will immediately sneak over to see Zhao Mu."

Xiang Shaolong was utterly shocked, "What?"

Zhao Da's eyes reddened as he lowered his head, his hands clenched tightly into fists, obviously his heart is filled with fury and regret.

To him, Xiang Shaolong is a trustworthy hero and only he can be a match for Lady Ya whereas Zhao Mu is a person everyone in Handan hates, so one can imagine his feelings right now.

Xiang Shaolong slowly understood.

This lure of using handsome man is truly formidable!

If Zhao Mu can control Zhao Ya again, then on their side no one will be able to leave Handan and it will also be the end of Zhu Ji and her son. Because Zhao Ya is extremely familiar with all their movements and secrets.

But it seems that although Zhao Ya is still being tangled up with Qi Yu, she has not betrayed him yet. Thinking of her distressing expression today as she told him to take her away from Zhao, and yet afraid that the Qins would be unreliable, he can understand her feelings of uncertainty. After all, the King of Zhao still dotes on her a lot, will she really be willing to betray King Xiaocheng?

She wanted to leave the state of Zhao mainly because there is no hope for the state and she does not wish to end up being in a destroyed state, and Qi Yu can give her protection, bringing her back to the state of Qi, which is separated from the Qins by the state of Zhao.

Obviously there is a secret agreement between Qi and Chu and they will go through all means to stop the 3 states from joining, to the extent that they will split the 3 states among themselves. Therefore Zhao Mu was able to invite Xiao Weimou to deal with him and now he can ask the expert in love to snatch his beloved away from him.

Naturally the King of Zhao is backing this up because he does not want Zhao Ya to get involved with the Wu family, and at the same time he wants to make use of Zhao Ya to understand the Wu family's secrets and when the time is ripe, he will exterminate the Wu family from the roots and take over all the livestock farm, getting rid of this thorn in his flesh.

Xiang Shaolong's train of thought kept expanding, and thought that maybe the King of Zhao may also be a participant in Zhao Ni's incident, because Xiao Pan once said that they fell into a deep sleep after eating the snacks the King sent them.

The King of Zhao allowed Zhao Mu to do this because he thought that Lady Ni gave herself to Xiang Shaolong only because she could not tolerate the loneliness. Therefore as long as Zhao Mu can give her the same enjoyment, they will be able to win her back. They did not expect Zhao Ni to be so fiercely protective of her chastity that she actually committed suicide after being raped.

With such comprehension, everything that he did not understand in the past now seems to fall into place.

The reason why Zhao Mu can single handedly cover up the case of Zhao Ni's death is because he had the approval of the King of Zhao. He did not want to reveal his own part in the evil deed so he'd rather offend Li Mu and forcefully suppressed this matter.

He has truly given up on the state of Zhao.

On his revenge name list, the King of Zhao's name has been added.

Now the most problematic matter is Zhao Ya.

Has she fallen too deeply with Qi Yu?

No wonder the King of Zhao handed Zhao Qian so readily to her.

But is it possible Empress Jing is also putting on an act? Deliberately luring him to assassinate Zhao Mu so that the King of Zhao will have an excuse to execute the Wu family.

Once he thought of this, he can't help but feel cold sweat running down his back.

Zhao Da asked, "Master! What should we do now?"

Xiang Shaolong sighed and said, "You will jest pretend that you don't know anything about this at all, and from now on don't follow or carry any investigations about Qi Yu. This is extremely important, understand?"

Zhao Da nodded his head, wanting to say something but stopping himself.

Xiang Shaolong thought of a matter and asked, "All of you are so loyal towards your Lady, but aren't you going to tell her when you obviously know that Qi Yu has been going to see Zhao Mu?"

Zhao Da replied, "We told her long ago but was instead reprimanded, saying that Qi Yu is the envoy from Qi, so naturally Zhao Mu will have to make him feel welcome. She even said she will not let us off lightly if we continue to follow Qi Yu."

Xiang Shaolong was secretly alarmed, it seems that Qi Yu has really enticed this fickle minded s.lut, why else would she not allow Zhao Da to continue his investigations.

If he can snatch her away from Lian Jin's hands, of course others can snatch her away from his hands. This is very fair.

Besides, with Lady Ya giving out favors so readily in the past, proves that she always like to try new things.

Zhao Da could not take it any longer and said, "If Lady really allies herself with Qi Yu, we all hope that we can come and follow you instead."

With Zhao Da's loyalty, to actually say such words that betrays his master, obviously shows how disappointed and upset they are towards Zhao Ya.

Zhao Ya has already betrayed him once, will history repeat itself again.

When she knows that there's no hope of escape, will she betray him again because of Qi Yu and her own interest?

Xiang Shaolong felt extreme fury and said quietly, "One day, if I can really become someone important, I will be most happy to accept all of you if you come and look for me."

Zhao Da thanked him happily before leaving.

Xiang Shaolong was feeling troubled, his mind in a blank, not wanting to think at all.

The ladies all saw his strange expression and hurriedly asked him for the reason.

How can he tell them his worries, so he hardened his heart and said, "Chunying, all of you go and prepare hot water, I want all of you to accompany me in the pool."

Chunying and the rest all understands what he is referring to and theur pretty faces blushed immediately, but they cannot conceal their happiness as they all rushed towards the pool.

Xiang Shaolong forced his spirits up and secretly thought that he will face problems as they come. He's not afraid of anyone at all.

At this moment what he needs the most is excitement, so that his spirit can be released from feelings of despair and anger.

The stronger person will conquer.

Fine!

Let me, Xiang Shaolong, see who is the stronger person.

Book 5 Chap 6 – The real and fake Ying Zheng

As the northern wind blew, Xiang Shaolong and Jing Jun climbed over walls quietly, avoiding the patrols and gantry posts and arrived at the garden outside Zhuji's building.

Jing Jun stayed behind as a look out while Xiang Shaolong took the familiar route to the window on the 2nd floor, pushed it gently, and the window opened immediately.

Zhu Ji's voice called out quietly from inside, "Is it Shaolong? Come in quickly!"

Xiang Shaolong slipped in through the window.

Zhu Ji hurriedly closed the window, turned around and leaned on the window ledge, her chest heaving, obviously she is feeling very nervous.

Only a weak, lone lamp was shining in the room but because it's placed on the corner of the window ledge, it will not reflect their shadows on the papered window.

The lamp emphasized half of the right side of Zhu Ji's body while her left side was cast in the shadows, making her dainty and voluptuous body look all the more dimensional and extremely alluring.

A stove was lit in the room, making it as warm as spring, which is why although Zhu Ji was thinly dressed, she still felt comfortable.

Her pretty eyes burned like fire, with a warmness that can scald as they stared unwaveringly at Xiang Shaolong, as if she's trying to scrutinize him inside out.

This is the first time Xiang Shaolong has met such a bold and wild character, a woman who is not afraid of men at all and his heart can't help but beat faster but on the surface he looked at her coolly.

This is definitely not a simple woman.

Zhu Ji's lips quivered slightly as she asked, "Xiang Shaolong! Can I trust you?"

Xiang Shaolong smiled slightly, "It seems that Lady has no other choice!"

Zhu Ji's pretty eyes stared at him, "Even if I can trust you, but what ability do you have that will enable you to take me and my son away."

Xiang Shaolong secretly thought, "Since I can infiltrate into this place, naturally I can bring you out. He was about to blurt this out when he suddenly felt that something was amiss and changed his words, "This is the reason why I came to discuss with Lady, because I guessed that Zhao Mu will certainly gather all his men at the Hostage Residence."

Zhu Ji nodded her head, "You're very astute, no wonder Zhao Mu is so wary of you. Every time they talk about you, I will listen very carefully. I did not expect Buwei to actually find you, it's really great."

Xiang Shaolong heard that when she was talking about Lu Buwei, she seems to be talking about a stranger and was secretly startled. I seems that she will not be loyal to any man. Men are making use of her, she is also making use of men.

He furrowed his brows and asked, "How is the situation at the Crown Prince's side?"

Zhu Ji sighed lightly, "Unless you can lead a huge army and successfully attack Handan City, or else you can forget about taking him away. Ever since my husband ascended the throne, Zhao Mu has transferred 200 highly skilled warriors who is constantly by his side day and night on rotation shifts. He also added high walls outside, making it a residence within a residence. Also, there is a troop of almost a thousand soldiers who have been posted here permanently to guard. Unless you can turn into a bird, or else you can forget about infiltrating that place to see him."

Xiang Shaolong's brows furrowed deeply on hearing this. When Wu Yingyuan was telling Xiao Yuetan about how heavily guarded the Hostage Residence is today, he was not exaggerating, instead he even 'understated' the real situation.

Zhu Ji continued nonchalantly, "Besides it's no use even if he is saved. Zhao Mu is an expert in using drugs and has given him s strange herb and he must take the antidote regularly to ensure his safety. If there's no antidote, he will die of poisoning in less than 10 days."

Xiang Shaolong feels as if his whole spine has been frozen into an ice pillar.

Oh my gosh! Is this going to be the future Emperor Qin?

This time he is really stuck between a rock and a hard place, unable to advance or retreat at all.

And he thought that saving mother and son would only require the lifting of a finger, he is really too naïve.

He breathed out a gush of cold air, "By keeping the Crown Prince like this, besides giving vent to their anger, what other good does it do to the Zhaos?"

Zhu Ji said lightly, "You should have heard of Zhao Mu's nefarious plot, to deliberately use wine and women to make him into a useless person. To tell the truth, Zhao Mu can't wait to send him back to become the King of Qin. But the time is not yet ripe, because Lu Buwei will stand to gain from it, do you understand?"

Of course Xiang Shaolong understands. The reason why Lu Buwei is so anxious to send mother and son back to Xianyang is because he wants to strengthen his relationship with King Zhuangxiang.

At this instant he finally realized that when Zhu Ji was talking about her son, she only said 'he' and did not address him in any other form or utter his name directly. He tone was so indifferent that it's scary and for a moment he can't help but feel perplexed.

Zhu Ji suddenly said with hatred, "It's better that this lad is dead, I get furious for no reason just at the sight of him."

Xiang Shaolong was stunned, people said that no matter how vicious a tiger is, it will not eat its offspring. Why would Zhu Ji curse her precious son who can make her become the Empress Dowager?

Zhu Ji moved over, took his hand and pulled him as she walled towards the bed and said gently, "Come! Let's continue the conversation on the bed!"

Firstly Xiang Shaolong is totally not in the mood and secondly, he just had a wild time with Chunying and the maids and is still tired and thirdly, he remembered the advice not to have any amorous relationship with this woman whom both Lu Buwei and King Zhuangxiang was enamored with so he immediately slipped his hand away and grabbed hers, saying "I'm afraid this is not a suitable time and place!"

Zhu Ji pouted, "Don't you think I know? It's just that those maids have been ordered to come and check on me every once in a while. It's a lot safer hiding in the bed."

Xiang Shaolong thought that he has misunderstood her so he hurriedly followed her into the curtained bed and immediately a fragrance wafted into his nose.

Zhu Ji told him to lie down inside and used the blanket to cover the both of them. She turned around and snuggled into his arms and hugged him tightly, her tiny mouth going up to his ears and whispered, "I want to tell you a huge secret, but first you must make a blood oath not to tell anyone else before I can let you know. Hai! I have no other choice but to tell you as well. I am not allowed to take even a step out of this place and there's no one I can trust."

Xiang Shaolong was secretly surprised, what secret can be so great that he needs to make a blood oath?

He answered, "I, Xiang Shaolong, is a man of my words. Once I've made a promise, I won't go back on my words, Lady can rest assured."

Zhu Ji said with relief, "I know you are a trustworthy man, but I am still worried, so why don't you just give in to me!"

With a beauty besieging him like this, he has no choice but to make a blood oath. At the same time he was secretly laughing, he doesn't even believe a blood oath will become true, so what restriction can this promise do to him? But since he's made the promise, he will not reveal it so readily.

Zhu Ji was hesitant for a moment before saying quietly, "The child they imprisoned is not my son at all."

Xiang Shaolong almost shrieked in surprise.

Heavens! What is this all about?

Before Zhu Ji has a chance to talk further, there was a knock on the door and the maid outside asked, "Is Lady asleep? His Marquis is here!"

Xiang Shaolong was terribly startled and was about to jump up when Zhu Ji pressed him down. She extended her hand and pushed on a decoration at the front of her bed and the place where Xiang Shaolong was lying on immediately became a movable board and he was flipped to a secret compartment under the bed.

In that instant, instead of lying in the warm blankets on the bed above, Xiang Shaolong is now lying in the secret compartment beneath which only has a blanket as a base. Luckily there are holes for ventilation so he has no lack of air.

The door opened and Zho Mu's voice said, "Beauty, I've come to visit you!"

Zhu Ji replied, "Marquis looks so energetic today, something good must have happened today to make you so happy, I am so happy for you as well!"

At this moment Xiang Shaolong, who is hiding in the secret compartment, guessed that where he is lying must be the personal secret compartment of that 'adulterer' Guo Kai. After hearing what she said he has to compliment Zhu Ji for knowing how to make a man feel good.

Later he could 'feel' Zhao and Zhu sitting down on the bed, followed by kissing sounds and Zhu Ji's alluring 'moans' and panting.

After a moment, Zhao Mu smiled, "I heard that your lover Lu has sent Tu Xian to come to Handan to save you, are you happy, beauty?"

Zhu Ji pouted, "Don't you know my heart? Without you, I am not going anywhere, besides it's only a rumor! Who would be so stupid as to come here on a death mission?"

Xiang Shaolong who is below was secretly thinking that she's formidable because Zhu Ji is obviously trying to test Zhao Mu's news.

Indeed Zhao Mu gave a cold snort, "How can it be a rumor, now the old officials of Qin are in a fierce fight with Lu Buwei and wants him to bear the responsibility of the death of the previous King. I'm afraid even your King Zhuangxiang won't be able to protect him. Once Lu Buwei is dead, I will naturally send you and your son back to Xianyang, by then do not forget about me."

Although Zhao Mu did not say anything, but Xiang Shaolong and Zhu Ji both guessed that the news must have come from the powerful Qin officials who want to topple Lu Buwei.

The fights between the Qin court and the local control for power have now widened.

The main battlefield is in the Qin court whole the side battle is being fought at Handan.

An originally very simple matter has now become extremely complicated, especially what Zhu Ji said earlier, it extremely unexpected and earth shattering.

Zhu Ji threw a tantrum and said, "Not going back! Not going back! I am definitely not going back, just let Zheng'er go back, I want to stay here with you."

Even Xiang Shaolong below was dumbfounded on hearing that. How can she sound so sincere and real, if she's in the 21st century, she'll definitely be a superstar in the entertainment industry.

Zhao Mu was totally taken in and they started kissing again, followed by the sounds of Zhao Mu removing their robes and the lecherous laughter and moans of the coupling between a man and a woman. Xiang Shaolong can only lament on his bad luck down below. If they start to have fun on the bed, he will feel even worse.

If he wants to kill Zhao Mu now, it'll be as easy as lifting a finger, but of course he won't be so stupid as to do that.

Luckily Zhao Mu is still in the mood for talking so he stopped Zhu Ji's attack and said, "The reason I'm so happy today is because that s.lut Zhao Ya has finally fallen into my trap and unable to pull herself out of it. No one understands her more than I do, not only does she hanker after wealth and riches, she also loves the new and will discard the old. But she's been giving special treatment to Xiang Shaolong. Luckily I still have a killer move, which is King Xiaocheng using their relationship as siblings and by telling her on the pros and cons, there's no way she will not submit."

Xiang Shaolong's heart sunk to the bottom. It's the end! Zhao Ya has really betrayed him. He wonders how much about him has she revealed to her imperial brother? Luckily in order not to cause her undue worry, he did not tell her a lot of things, or else the outcome would be unthinkable.

Zhu Ji asked deliberately, "Why are you talking about Xiang Shaolong all the time with such hatred, what has he got to do with me? I am not interested in him at all."

How would Zhao Mu know that this sly woman is testing him, or maybe he won't put his guard up against a beauty who has lost her freedom, so he said lightly, "How can there be no relation? The Wu family has always been in contact with Lu Buwei and Xiang Shaolong is the grandson-in-law of the Wu family. If Lu Buwei wants to sneak people out, he'll obviously need the help of the Wu family." He paused and continued with a cold snort, "Xiang Shaolong better not end up in my hands, or else I'll make him regret that he was ever born. You shall watch at the side when I torture him!"

Xiang Shaolong who was hiding beneath was gritting his teeth on hearing it and wished he can jump out and kill him.

Of course Zhu Ji knows that Xiang Shaolong is listening so she can't help but laugh and ask, "How can that inexperienced lad win you? He'll end up in your hands sooner or later, and you can do what you want with him."

Apparently Zhao Mu got excited on hearing it and said, "Come! Get up the bed!"

At least Zhu Ji has some conscience and she objected, "You come looking for me in the middle of the night and now you've made me hungry, where can I find the mood."

Obviously Zhao Mu is totally enthralled by her and hurriedly summoned the servants to prepare snacks for her before saying with satisfaction, "No one in Zhao dares to offend me now. As soon as I exterminate the Wu family from the roots, no one else will dare to do anything without my approval."

Zhu Ji flattered him and said gently, "I think Xiang Shaolong must be a total idiot, or else why would he think that Zhao Ya who is famous in the world for being a s.lut would be loyal to him?"

Xiang Shaolong can only laugh bitterly, these few words of Zhu Ji are obviously meant as a free gift for him.

Zhao Mu did not expect that there is a twist to all this and replied seriously, "You're wrong! Zhao Ya has indeed given her true feelings to Xiang Shaolong, that's why she's still helping him hide a lot of things. But I understand her too well, so there's no way she can win me. If she doesn't want to die together with Xiang Shaolong, she'll have to work with me obediently." He sighed comfortably and said, "Not only is Xiang Shaolong not an idiot, he's very formidable as well. If not for Zhao Ya this weak link, it'll still be uncertain who will win in the end."

Xiang Shaolong thought of one thing and was sweating immediately.

If Zhao Qian told Zhao Ya about how Ji Yanran and Zou Yan saved them in Daliang, and she told Zhao Mu, then Ji Yanran and Zou Yan will be in big danger.

At this time the maids came to inform that the food is ready.

Zhao Mu and Zhu Ji went out of the room.

What better time to leave than now?

Xiang Shaolong secretly thanked heavens and slipped away.

Zhao Qian tossed and turned in bed, unable to get to sleep.

Without Xiang Shaolong next to her, she felt lost and alone.

She then thought of Zhao Pan, this child who has lost his mother is slowly becoming frighteningly melancholy. Only when he's with her or Xiang Shaolong will he show a little naivety and happiness, and he won't even give any face to Zhao Ya.

If he has shown himself to be a little weaker, maybe Zhao Qian will feel better.

Right at this time, the curtains were suddenly lifted and she was about to scream when she heard Xiang Shaolong's familiar voice call out, "Qian'er! It's Shaolong!"

Zhao Qian never expected her beloved would appear next to her bed in the middle of the night and threw herself at him in joy, hugging him in a death grip.

Xiang Shaolong removed his shoes, hugged her and snuggled into the blankets. He gave a long kiss before asking quietly, "Did you tell Lady Ya about how Sister Yanran saved us?"

Zhao Qian is extremely astute and she asked in shock upon hearing his words, "Is there something wrong with her? Why would there be a problem telling her?"

Xiang Shaolong's expression changed, "That means you've already told her!"

Zhao Qian shook her head, "I didn't. But it's not because I don't trust her, but because I've promised Sister Yanran that I will never reveal this matter to anyone. That's why I only told her the story that we agreed on long ago."

Xiang Shaolong heaved a great sigh of relief.

Zhao Qian's body trembled, "Heavens! What has Lady done? To make you actually sneak in here in the middle of the night just to ask me such a question?"

Xiang Shaolong caressed her back lovingly, "Have you seen her tonight?"

Zhao Qian replied, "I heard that she has a guest so it's inconvenient for me to go over. Hai! I remember now, every time they say there's a guest, Xiao Zhao and the rest will have a very strange expression, as if they are furious but unable to say anything about it. Could that guest be Zhao Mu?"

Xiang Shaolong has already been numbed by all these, he will no longer get agitated over Zhao Ya and Qi Yu's secret rendezvous. He is someone who is able to take things lightly.

He had once suggested to Zhao Ya to allow Jing Jun and the rest to protect her but she rejected him determinedly. At that time he didn't think too much of it but now he knows that she did not want to let him know about her affair with Qi Yu.

Zhao Qian pleaded, "Xiang Lang! Please tell me what this is all about?"

Xiang Shaolong replied, "Did you notice anything strange about Lady these few days?"

Zhao Qian thought carefully for a moment before replying, "Now that you mention it, it really seems that Lady is different from the past. Not only is she listless, there was even once I found her crying alone but when I asked her, she just said that she was thinking of Lady Ni. Sometimes she would also throw her temper at the servants for nothing." She pouted and hastened him to talk, "What is this all about! This suspense is making me feel terrible!"

Xiang Shaolong sighed and said, "Think again, did she say anything special, for example words like we'll never be able to escape or something along that line."

Zhao Qian replied, "That she did not, but she did mention once that Lu Buwei can't even protect himself now and he can face clan extermination any time. If we follow the Wu family and throw our lots with him, it's akin to sending the sheep to the tiger's den."

Xiang Shaolong asked, "Then how did you answer her?"

Zhao Qian kissed him and said, "I said as long as I can follow you, death doesn't matter at all." She trembled and continued, " That's right! At that time she had a very strange expression, now that I think of it, she looks almost ashamed and regretful. After that she made an excuse and left."

By now Xiang Shaolong has totally given up on Zhao Ya.

Zhao Mu is right, he understands Zhao Ya more than him. That's why he can use make use of this fickle minded woman twice to harm him.

After heaving a sigh, he told the gist of what happened to Zhao Qian.

Zhao Qian had already guessed what has happened and was strangely calm.

Xiang Shaolong told her, "You have to pretend that nothing has happened."

Zhao Qian kissed him lovingly and said gently, "Qian'er understands, I have great confidence in this new saint here and I know you will definitely be able to bring Qian'er and the Wu family past this difficult period safely."

Before Xiang Shaolong left he asked, "Will you be able to bear abandoning your father and follow me to an unknown fate?"

Zhao Qian nodded her head with certainty, "As long as I can leave Imperial father, Qian'er is not afraid of anything. There is something I have not told you, which is after my mother died, Qian'er's nanny once said something bad about Zhao Mu and the words drifted to Imperial father's ears. He immediately offered poisoned wine to nanny and before she died, she held my hands and said as she cried, if there is a chance I must go far away from the Palace, being a commoner's daughter is far better than being a Princess."

Xiang Shaolong was full of thoughts when he heard this.

He really cannot understand the mind of royalty, just like how he cannot understand Zhao Ya.

Book 5 Chap 7 – Lies and trickery

After Xiang Shaolong and Jing Jun returned to the Wu Residence, they each went back to their own rooms.

Before they parted, Jing Jun seemed to have something to say but he stopped himself.

Xiang Shaolong knows what he's thinking and said, "Nothing will happen during the day, just rest assured and go to school! But be careful, now in Handan, besides the Wu residence, there's no other safe place."

Jing Jun was ecstatic as he replied, "I am a born hunter, I won't become prey so easily."

Xiang Shaolong knows that he is cunning and smart, and his skills at escaping is unparalleled so he was not worried.

When he returned to Hidden Dragon Abode, all the ladies were already in dreamland.

Although Xiang Shaolong is extremely tired, but his mind and spirit was greatly affected by the string of events that has happened tonight and was not in the mood for sleep at all. He suddenly had an idea, so he sat down on the bed next to his wife and concubine and followed the meditation skills written on the '3 killer moves', sitting cross legged as he adjusted his breathing, his mind melding with his heart, his heart joined with his spirit, his spirit joined with the universe as he eliminated all thoughts and unintentionally went into a state of nothingness, something he has never experienced before. His spirit seems to leave his body, joining and parting and when he regained his senses, it was already morning and the ladies were awake.

Xiang Shaolong ignored the ladies' surprise and he was secretly astounded. He has been meditating for more than 2 hours but it felt as if he was asleep and woke up in the blink of an eye. He was sitting cross-legged but he did not feel any numbness in his limbs at all from lack of blood circulation.

When he was training in the special task force, he has learnt Qigong as well, using different methods but he's never had such a refreshing feeling before and for a moment he's not really concerned about Lady Ya's matter.

During breakfast, Chunying and the maids served him especially meticulously with bright and sweet smiles and although it's the cold winter, he can still feel the allure of spring and his mood turned for the better, filled with the strong desire to fight.

After kissing the ladies, he hurriedly went to look for Xiao Yuetan, who was still sleeping with a beauty in his arms. When he knew he was looking for him, he put on a robe and came out.

At this time Xiao Yuetan's disguise has been removed, revealing his sharp features, a far cry from what he looked like yesterday, even having an air of flirtatious charm.

After exchanging civilities, Xiang Shaolong said quietly, "The news of Master Tu coming to Zhao has already been leaked by those in your country who are against Mister Lu, and the King of Zhao and Zhao Mu has learnt of this."

Xiao Yuetan's expression changed slightly, revealing a look of surprise and uncertainty.

Xiang Shaolong continued, "But it seems that they still do not know where Master Tu is but it's certain that they have sent men to search."

Xiao Yuetan said, "I will send someone to warn Master Tu. Shaolong, Master Tu will be very grateful to you, this news is too important."

Only now did Xiang Shaolong realize that Xiao Yuetan have not come to Handan alone. Seeing that his tone towards him has changed, he was secretly amused as he said, "Zhao Mu is keeping the Crown Prince very heavily guarded." He then told him what Zhu Ji has revealed last night, even telling him about how Zhao Mu has been drugging Ying Zheng.

Xiao Yuetan's expression really changed totally and he was quiet.

Xiang Shaolong has already felt last night that his main purpose is to bring Zhu Ji and her son back to Xianyang and is not at all enthusiastic about how they should bring the Wu family over to the Qin border. Now that he's heard the true situation, he finally understood that for outsiders like them to save Zhu Ji and her son is impossible, even with the most expert skill of disguise.

Just like what Zhu Ji has said, unless they attack the city, or else how can they bring Ying Zheng away and even if they did, he'll end up dying from poisoning.

Xiao Yuetan took a deep breath and said, "Where did Shaolong get these news from?"

Xiang Shaolong replied, "I have men planted around Zhao Mu and last night I finally had the chance to make contact with Lady Zhu Ji, she told me personally."

Xiao Yuetan was impressed with Xiang Shaolong's abilities, and after a moment's hesitation, said, "Shaolong please forgive me for being straight, it seems that the King of Zhao has long been suspecting that the Wu family is in secret contact with our Master Lu, and now that the news of Master Tu coming here has been leaked, anyone can guess that the purpose is to steal away mother and son. Now you are stuck, how will you be able to proceed with the plan?"

Xiang Shaolong said confidently with a smile, "I can only answer you tomorrow, anyway we have not come to the end of the road. Can you please pass the message to Master Tu that if he really wants to bring the Crown Prince and his mother back to Xianyang, both sides must be able to cooperate sincerely."

Xiao Yuetan knows that Xiang Shaolong has seen through their intentions and said with a slight blush, "This is but of course… of course! Heh! I will inform Master Tu."

He continued with furrowed brows, "Zhao Mu is famous for his art in using drugs, how can we solve this issue?"

Xiang Shaolong laughed, "Tomorrow I will have a satisfactory answer for you."

Xiao Yuetan saw how energized and relaxed he looked and his confidence was raised as well and said with a nod, "It seems that I'll have to make a personal trip to see Master Tu and I can only be back about 3 to 4 days even at the earliest. I hope by then Shaolong will have good news to share."

Xiang Shaolong continued talking to him in secret a little more before he left and on the way back bumped into Tao Fang who was out looking for him. He looked spirited and Xiang Shaolong thought that the Chu spy could not even hold out for a day and has revealed the truth. However, Tao Fang only said, "Shaolong's plan is really useful, it's just one night and he's almost half collapsed and only wants to sleep. I don't think he can hold out much longer and will soon confess."

Xiang Shaolong secretly thought that this can also be considered good news. Such methods may be inhumane but it's a little better than torturing his body. No matter how strong a person is, under such a situation, will also become extremely weak.

Tao Fang said, "Young Master left the city early this morning to the livestock farm and won't be back for a few days." He lowered his voice and added, "He's going to make arrangements for pulling out of Zhao, it'll be the Farmers' Festival in 10 days time and we traditionally have a 'prayer ceremony' and the King of Zhao will come personally to the farm to oversee it. At that time we will send part of the family to a secret hiding place which has been prepared long ago and after the grand event, we will send them towards Qin one by one."

Xiang Shaolong was a little relieved. With Wu Yingyuan's farsightedness and planning, anything that he thinks is secure will definitely not have any problems.

Tao Fang led him towards the Wu family mansion and said along the way, "At that time when I met Shaolong at Mulberry Village, I already knew you're no ordinary man but I did not expect you to have such accomplishments today."

Once he mentioned Mulberry Village, Xiang Shaolong can't help but think of Mei Canniang and he turned gloomy!

He did not expect that after coming to this ancient period, there are a lot more things that makes him worry compared to in the past.

Tao Fang knows what he was thinking and tried to console him a little, but he knows that his empty words are of no use at all so he said, "Old Master wants to see you!"

Master Wu met his Grandson-in-law alone in the secret meeting room and came straight to the point, "Find a time today and I'll hold a simple ceremony for you and Fang'er to become official husband and wife."

Xiang Shaolong hurriedly kowtowed and offered his thanks.

He's already developed deep feelings for Wu Tingfang and was glad to have such a pretty wife.

Master Wu furrowed his brows, "I thought with all the intimacy you've had, Fang'er would get pregnant very quickly, it's so strange…"

Xiang Shaolong was secretly startled, although he has thought of this question before, he's never too bothered about it.

Master Wu did not seem too bothered too and continued, "I want to tell you something important regarding the life and death of the Wu family and even Tao Fang is not aware of this matter. Only a few people who are from the immediate Wu family is aware."

Xiang Shaolong looked at him quizzically.

Master Wu said with seriousness, "All the residences of Princes and Royalties will have secret tunnels used for escape and this is an open secret to all. We are no exception, we have 4 secret tunnels leading to the outside of our estate and the exit are all near the fortress. But for us, this is just a cover."

Xiang Shaolong's eyes immediately brightened and he asked unbelievably, "Is there a secret tunnel that leads to outside the city?"

Master Wu said proudly, "Exactly, this tunnel that leads to outside the east city gates took 3 generations about 70 odd years to complete and is 3 li long. Countless Wu family members have sacrificed their lives building it, a lot of effort was put into just the layout of the ventilation holes. It's more than 10 feet deep underground and even digging a well won't be so deep down. We made use of an underground river to build it and the entrance is at a secret cave at the back of the hill and it can only be reached via a short tunnel at the back of the house and is extremely covered."

Only now did Xiang Shaolong understand why the Wu father and son are so confident about escaping from Handan.

Master Wu said, "That's why as long as you have the ability to bring Zhu Ji and her son to the Wu residence, we will be confident of escaping."

Xiang Shaolong was greatly excited and felt his confidence soaring, it seems that the most difficult problem has suddenly been solved.

Master Wu suddenly exclaimed, "This secret tunnel is not easy to travel, it's wet and stuffy. I've used it once when I was young and have never gone down since, and I had hoped that I will never have the need to use it to escape. Now that I'm old, it'll be even more difficult for me to travel!"

Xiang Shaolong said, "I heard from Master Tao that during the Farmers' Festival, we will take the opportunity to send a group of people away, Grandfather you…"

Master Wu interrupted, "If I were to leave as well, it'll be strange if that muddle headed ruler King Xiaocheng does not take immediate action. Everyone can leave except me."

Xiang Shaolong's expression changed on hearing this.

Master Wu smiled slightly, as if he's almost at the end of his road and said gently, "The world now belongs to youngsters like you. I am old and my days are numbered, I do not have the courage to face a new life in Qin and neither can I survive the scares and difficulties involved in escaping. That's why I've already told Yingyuan that I have decided to stay here and not leave."

Xiang Shaolong was stunned, "How can the King of Zhao let you off then?"

Master Wu chortled, "Who wants him to let me off? I won't even leave a piece of my skin for him to find. I have been prestigious all my life and even in death will I not be humiliated."

Xiang Shaolong cried out hoarsely, "Grandfather!" For the first time he felt sincere admiration for this plump old man from the bottom of his heart.

Master Wu said suavely, "Don't behave like a woman or a child, I have high expectations of you. In all great matters, someone must be sacrificed. If King Xiaocheng wants to attack my Wu family fortress, he'll have to pay a terrible price. I am really happy, even at a time like this, I still have a group of men who are willing to lay down their lives with me."

He paused and continued, "Once you take Zhu Ji and her son away, King Xiaocheng will attack immediately. If there's no one to block him for a few days, how are all of you going to escape?" He added with resolve, "My mind is made up, do not say anymore."

Xiang Shaolong knows it's difficult to make him change his mind, and in fact this is what he has asked for. He asked, "How many people know about the secret tunnel? It seems that even Tingfang is not aware."

Master Wu replied, "That's why it can remain a secret. Don't worry! Those who know about this is very reliable. If you see Wu Zhuo over the next few days, tell him to lead you to it. As long as we can get out of the city, no one will know how to survive better than generations of livestock farmers like us."

He gave a cold snort and added, "Since he's dishonest, I need not be loyal. Since King Xiaocheng can treat me this way, I want him to have a taste of the most bitter fruit he's ever had after the battle of Changping. I'll make sure there won't be a single usable warhorse in his whole country and let him sit and watch while the state of Zhao is slowly carved apart and disintegrate."

Looking at the gleaming hatred in Master Wu's eyes, Xiang Shaolong suddenly understood that once a person views death as a certainty, he can be a really scary person.

Xiang Shaolong is already mentally prepared for this and riding on his beloved steed which Learned Lady Ji has given him, he went to Zhao Ya's residence and met her at the inner hall. Looking at his beauty who is only a few feet away, Xiang Shaolong however felt that the distance between their hearts is like lakes and mountains apart.

He was more alert to his surroundings and indeed noticed that Xiaozhao and the other maids were a lot quieter, their faces expressionless, with sadness hidden in their eyes.

Zhao Ya is smiling like a flower as usual but Xiang Shaolong can see that beneath the forced smile the dilemma deep within her heart.

She looked at him in surprise and said, "Shaolong you looked especially in high spirits today, are there new developments." She lowered her voice and added, "Have you caught a hold over Zhao Mu already?"

Xiang Shaolong shook his head and said, "It's not that easy!"

Zhao Ya asked, "Then are there developments over at Zhu Ji and her son's side?"

Xiang Shaolong pretended to look troubled and said with furrowed brows, "The place where mother and son are kept are heavily guarded, there's no way to infiltrate it as well. Do you have a way to let me meet up with them?"

Zhao Ya lowered her head and bit her teeth, "Let me think about it!"

Xiang Shaolong knows that she indeed has feelings for him, or else she would not have revealed so much uncertainty and could have pretended that she's totally not up to the task.

He said with a straight face, "I've been thinking last night, and decided to follow Empress Jing's words and assassinate Zhao Mu."

Zhao Ya was stunned, "Shaolong!" She lifted her pretty face and looked at him with misery.

Xiang Shaolong was feeling secretly pleased and said with a low voice, "Only by killing Zhao Mu will we have a chance to kidnap Zhu Ji and her son. I now have a batch of about 500 Wu family warriors who are not afraid to die and we have the strength to fight openly with Zhao Mu. As long as I do everything nice and clean, who would dare to say I am the murderer?"

Zhao Ya looked at him, in a loss.

Of course Xiang Shaolong knows that she thought he has already fallen into Empress Jing's trap, and only felt an indescribable pleasure.

S.lut, since you want me to die, then let me lie to you for some fun.

"What is the best place to make the move?"

Zhao Ya lowered her head and said quietly, "It's the Farmers' Festival 10 days later, Zhao Mu will go with Imperial Brother to the livestock farm outside the Wu family fortress for prayer ceremonies. Hai! Shaolong you must think it through again."

Xiang Shaolong can feel her inner struggle and pain and his heart softened a little as he said gently, "Don't be so unconfident in me! I will split the 500 men into 2 groups, one group will lay in ambush along the way to ambush your Imperial Brother and Zhao MU's carriage…"

Zhao Ya exclaimed hoarsely, "What? Even Imperial Brother…"

It is exactly Xiang Shaolong's intention to force Zhao Ya to thoroughly betray him. Only by making use of Zhao Ya will he be able to trick the King of Zhao and Zhao Mu. He need not make a pretense of the deep hatred in his eyes as he said, "The way your Imperial Brother covered up for Zhao Mu regarding Lady Ni's matter, needless to say it's because he is the cause of all this. Such an evil fiend, why keep him in this world?"

Zhao Ya looked at him in a loss, then suddenly lowered her head as if she has come to a decision as she bit her lips and said, "Then the other group will go to the Hostage Residence and kidnap them, but how are you going to leave the city?"

Xiang Shaolong said confidently, "I will open a short tunnel that will lead us out of the city at the west of the city. The Wu family has enough manpower and equipment in this area so it's guaranteed that no one will find out. We will also prepare men and horses outside the city and will leave by over 10 different routes to escape. Along the way there will be pre-prepared hiding areas so that even if the big army comes after us, it would be difficult for them to find us. Besides, by then the city of Handan will not have a leader after your Imperial Brother and Zhao Mu's death so they will certainly be in a mess. If Empress Jing comes to power, she won't be so enthusiastic in going after us. This plan can be considered foolproof, and later on I will arrange for you and Qian'er the time and place to meet."

Zhao Ya lowered her head and did not speak, the rapid changes in her expression, which she tried to hide, are all revealed to Xiang Shaolong's eyes.

He pretended to be surprised and asked, "Ya'er! What's wrong? Is there something wrong with my plan?"

Zhao Ya was startled and regained her composure as she shook her head and replied, "Nothing's wrong, it's just that everything's too sudden for me to accept so quickly."

Xiang Shaolong deliberately made fun of her and said, "This is being deliberate, as long as we strategize well, I guarantee that the muddle headed ruler and corrupt official will only live for the next 10 days."

Zhao Ya took a sad look at him and did not say further.

Xiang Shaolong knows that he has laid enough groundwork so he stretched lazily and stood up, "Come! Let us go and look for Qian'er and Xiao Pan!"

Zhao Ya lowered her head and said quietly, "Shaolong!"

Xiang Shaolong secretly thought that something is wrong, yet he is filled with hope as he asked, "What's the matter?"

Zhao Ya was hesitant for a moment before shaking her head and said, "It's nothing, we can talk after we reach the state of Qin."

Xiang Shaolong sighed secretly, knowing that Zhao Ya has let go of the last chance she has to retain him.

Their relationship has now been terminated!

From now on, all feelings have ceased and they will have nothing to do with each other.

After he left her residence, he can feel the joy of pain.

Pain because of Zhao Ya's change of heart, joy because he has discarded this relationship baggage.

Ever since the last time Zhao Ya allowed Prince Shaoyuan to enter her bedchamber without a reason, he'd already known that she has a weak will when it comes to matters revolving men and women, and this is in her nature. Zhao Ni and her faced almost the same situation but she was not like her, flirting with men everywhere.

This is called a short pain is better than a lengthened torture.

Once he thought of this, he immediately felt an indescribable sense of release.

These 10 days until the actual day, the King of Zhao will deliberately make things easy for him so that he can take his time to arrange the assassination attempt and he can use this as an excuse to confiscate all of the Wu family's extensive assets.

Without a grand excuse, the King of Zhao will never dare to touch the Wu family because it will cause other wealthy families in the country to fear for themselves and start moving to other states and the situation would be terrible. He has really put a lot of thought into this.

Now he only has to find out where the real Ying Zheng is and he will be able to proceed with his secret plan.

Maybe he can even persuade Master Wu to leave with them.

Once he thought about this, he wished that he could sprout wings and fly into the Hostage Residence immediately and ask that alluring beauty Zhu Ji this question.

The weather was bitterly cold as the northern wind howled.

There were not many people or carriages on the streets, all those who can would rather stay home than come out and face the bitter cold.

Hoof beats were heard and a group of riders appeared ahead and as they came nearer, it turned out to be Cheng Xu and 10 over soldiers.

On seeing a friend, Xiang Shaolong went up and greeted him warmly.

Who would have expected that Cheng Xu would suddenly look stunned and he forced out a smile as he said, "Commander Xiang, I have something urgent to attend to, we'll chat if there's a chance next time." And he hurriedly rode away.

Xiang Shaolong stood there stunned.

He can only think of the famous words 'Men's heart can turn cold and the world turn icy'.

It seems that no one in Handan welcomes him now.

Behind him he heard hoof beats again as a rider rode past him and swiftly handed him a ball of paper. He opened it and it turns out that Pu Bu is arranging to meet him and it's written on the paper the place and time.

Xiang Shaolong felt a warmth filling his heart as he returned home after tearing up the piece of paper.

Book 5 Chap 8 – The secret about Ying Zheng

Xiang Shaolong sat alone in the garden in his Hidden Dragon Abode, a manmade fountain spurting water from the stone, forming a winding stream through the rocks. By now the stream is almost turning into ice, with only a small portion of water still flowing in the middle, looking extremely intriguing.

Wu Tingfang and the rest all dared not disturb him.

Thoughts rolled in his mind as he thought of how he first met Zhao Ya on the streets on Handan, how he conquered her in his own way. He also thought of how Zhao Mu touched her all over in the carriage, of how aroused she was with all his ministrations. That there are already premonitions that she will develop feelings for someone else, because she cannot defend herself from any man's flirtations at all.

She is just following her heart, not caring about right or wrong, or else she won't have been so intimate with Zhao Mu knowing fully well that he is causing harm to the country and the people, until he has treated her so badly before she left him. If it were Zhao Ni or Zhao Qian, they would not have gone against him under such threats.

But he still trusted her, upon seeing her pretty and wonderful side, he truly believed her honeyed words.

Of course, if he is still planning to stay on in Zhao, maybe their relationship could have continued. But now it has been proven that she cannot withstand the test of benefits and lust.

People of this era all likes to use 'trickery of the heart', the higher the position of the person, the more so.

Cheng Xu who had once gone through thick and thin with him would do a sudden turnabout now caused him much heartache.

Many in this world are those who add salt to wounds, very rare are those who come to help when one is in need.

As he became lost in his thoughts, he was unconsciously following the Mohist meditation technique to stop his thoughts and he immediately felt better. He was suddenly jolted by the sounds of footsteps, it turned out that Tao Fang has come to look for him.

He saw the look of delight on his old friend's face, who came up to him, swept off the thin layer of snow on the huge rock next to him, sat down and said, "That lad is even lousier than imagined, he's finally confessed."

Xiang Shaolong counted the time, if they started the questioning from yesterday, they have at least bombarded him with questions for more than 30 hours, which is not something that one can easily hold up against. He asked happily, "What inside news have you found out?"

Tao Fang was a little miffed as he answered, "Actually he's only a messenger, and has no idea what is Zhao Mu's background at all. He purely reports verbally what is happening in Chu and then he'll relay Zhao Mu's words back to Chu's Prince Wen Xin, Chu Leng, who is a top official whom the King of Chu trusts."

Xiang Shaolong asked, "What is Zhao Mu's message this time?"

Tao Fang replied, "He only asked Prince Wen Xing to send someone over with gifts 3 months later, only this point is a little unique. The rest are all normal recent news like the one regarding Xiao Weimou's death."

Xiang Shaolong had a thought and asked, "Is he still being questioned now?"

Tao Fang replied, "Of course! I was afraid he was lying so I followed your instructions and kept forcing him to repeat the details to see if anything does not correspond."

Xiang Shaolong asked, "Has he ever been to Handan in the past?"

Tao Fang shook his head, "It's the first time he made contact with Zhao Mu. In order to avoid suspicions, I believe they send different people here every time."

Xiang Shaolong asked, "How long does it take at the fastest to travel between Chu and Zhao?"

Tao Fang said, "If it's a rushed journey on a quick horse, and because there are many checkpoints along the way, just the journey alone will take 2 months. That's why I suspect that this person is lying."

Xiang Shaolong is adept at spying techniques and said with a smile, "No, he is not lying, this is a secret message that will prevent others from forcing the information out. 3 months may be half the time actually meant, in fact he is referring to half a year. Sending gifts over meant the opposite, I've already thought that if Zhao Mu is sent here by the state of Chu, he will never let the 'Secret Manual of Lu Gong' fall into the hands of the Zhaos, so the real meaning is he wants the Chus to send over skilled exponents in half a year's time to steal the secret manual. Zhao Mu is really loyal to the state of Chu."

Tao Fang was enlightened, "So the words all meant the opposite, it's taking gifts, not giving gifts. The Chus are really wily, and Prince Wen Xing already knows that the 'gift' refers to so he will know once he hear the message."

Xiang Shaolong's eyes shone, "Most importantly we have to find out who he pretended to be when he came to Handan and what are the ways he used to make contact, the more details the better. I was just worrying that I won't be able to kill Zhao Mu but this trip will really prove to be exciting."

Tao Fang is beginning to understand his thinking and left excitedly.

Tao Fang had just left and Jing Jun came looking for him, looking totally dispirited.

Xiang Shaolong stood up and smiled, "It seems that the lesson is not that interesting, right?"

Jing Jun came to him and said honestly, "I was bored to death and I dared not offend my future father-in-law. And to think that I had to spend money to buy 10 catties of waxed meat for him, and I did not even get to touch Zhao Zhi's hand in the end."

Xiang Shaolong asked, "You did not get to see her?"

Jing Jun sighed, "What's the use of seeing her, there are so many students, do you think I can really walk up and start touching her? I think most of the people goes there for lessons because of her."

Xiang Shaolong chortled, "Is she having lessons as well?"

Jing Jun shook his head, "Initially she was sitting at a corner, making me think that she is accompany me for the lesson but in a short while she ran away with a smile and totally disappeared. I couldn't find her anywhere after the lesson ended. Hai! I won't ever go again even if you force me with a sword."

Xiang Shaolong shook his head and sighed, "Such impatience, how can you win the lady's heart."

Jing Jun only shook his head.

Xiang Shaolong said, "Come with me outside for a walk."

The 2 of them changed into commoner's clothes and went up the carriage and out of the stockade before slipping off the carriage at the corner. Jing Jun followed him from afar to see if there's anyone following him.

An hour later, Xiang Shaolong met Pu Bu at a dense forest south of the city.

Pu Bu said excitedly, “Things are going a lot smoother than imagined. Zhao Mu's number one man Zheng Yue recruited all of us. Not that I am boasting, but us warriors, when Prince Pingyuan was still alive, were quite famous and respected in Handan."

Xiang Shaolong asked, "Is there any news?"

Pu Bu replied apologetically, "We have just settled down and have not heard anything. I think we will take at least 6 months to a year to fully gain their trust."

Xiang Shaolong replied, "It's all right, you will stay there for a period of time, I will come back to look for you. After we accomplish a big mission, I will bring you back with me."

Pu Bu replied, "We will listen to Master Xiang's instructions." He paused and continued, "Master Xiang! We only hope to follow you."

Xiang Shaolong replied earnestly, "I understand, I will not let you down in your trust and expectations of me."

After they agreed on the mode of contact, Xiang Shaolong asked, "Do you know of this person from Qi called Qi Yu?"

Pu Bu replied, "That is a good question Master Xiang, the first task given to me and Liu Cao is to be his bodyguard and bring him around for fun. Hei! This lad really has a thing with women, all these women who saw him stuck to him like bees to honey."

Xiang Shaolong felt a pain in his heart and thought of Lady Ya and asked quietly, "Have you accompanied him to see Lady Ya?"

Pu Bu replied, "That we did not, but last night he did not ask for company and slipped out of the Envoy Lodge, maybe he went to look for her."

Xiang Shaolong said, "Don't tell anyone about this. All right! If there's nothing special, try not to make contact with me, no matter what you hear regarding Zhao Mu's plans to deal with me, do not try to let me know. You must remember that."

Pu Bu knows that he's smarter than the average person and although it doesn't sound very logical, there must be something to it, so he agreed.

After they parted, Xiang Shaolong went back to the Wu Residence and surprisingly We Yingyuan, Wu Zhuo and Teng Yu were all waiting for him.

In the secret chamber, the few important members of the Wu family, Master Wu, Wu Yingyuan, Wu Zhuo, Tao Fang and Xiang Shaolong were all seated, even Teng Yi as well, which goes to show that because of his relationship with Xiang Shaolong and his outstanding performance, he has already gained the trust of all in the Wu family.

This is an important meeting that will impact the life and death of the Wu family.

Wu Zhuo gave his report first, "Teng Yi and I, under Young Grand-Master-in-law's instructions, chose 500 men from the 2000 elite soldiers and followed his suggested method and kept testing them. Hei! I did not expect only 77 to pass the tests. We will start training them tomorrow, but I can guarantee that these warriors will be able to fight off a hundred men single-handedly."

Xiang Shaolong said with a smile, "You only have 10 days, make good use of the time."

Everyone were perplexed, and asked him why he's so sure there's only 10 days.

Xiang Shaolong sighed and told them everything, only hiding the matter regarding the fake Ying Zheng, because he has made a promise to keep it a secret.

Wu Yingyuan's brows furrowed deeply as he asked, "Then how are you going to get mother and son out? Won't it be even worse if he dies of poisoning after being rescued?"

Xiang Shaolong replied confidently, "There is a twist to this matter, but just as Zhu Ji was about to reveal it, Zhao Mu came and interrupted the conversation. In any case, just leave it to me."

Everyone heaved a sigh of relief, and regained their hope.

Teng Yi listened coldly, no change of expression on his face at all, giving one the impression of a hero with deep resolution.

Tao Fang complimented, "Shaolong is indeed smarter than others, making use of Zhao Ya to trick the King of Zhao and Zhao Mu. Seems that no matter what out of the ordinary things we do for the next 10 days, they will not interfere."

Master Wu nodded his head, "If we do not have Shaolong, we will surely fail terribly this time." He turned towards his son and said, "Is the livestock farm in Qin almost ready?"

Everyone was surprised, only now did they realize that Wu Yingyuan had gone to the state of Qin to make arrangements.

Wu Yingyuan replied, "I've chosen 4 places to run the farm and have already sent experienced hands to deal with it 2 years ago and now it's beginning to have some semblance of a farm and just about able to contain the resources and animals that we will be moving there. Humph! I really feel like seeing with my own eyes the expression of that muddleheaded ruler King Xiaocheng's face after we leave."

Xiang Shaolong can't help but ask, "There are so many animals in the farm and along the way there will be roadblocks set up by the Zhao soldiers, how will we leave?"

Wu Yingyuan said with a smile, "We will not move even a strand of grass in this farm, what we're moving are the few farms near the Qin border. The past few years we've been using the excuse that we're going to deal against the Qins to slowly expand our farms near that area and the best animals are also sent there."

Tao Fang continued, "On the surface the Zhaos are still maintaining cordial relationships with the Wu family and the soldiers at the borders do not know the situation here at all. As long as the Qins agree, even if we move all the animals, it won't pose any difficulty at all. Besides, we're now only sending over the best animals to use as stud stock."

Wu Zhuo said, "Many of the Zhao soldiers at the border are Wu family disciples I secretly planted there whose names have been changed, so it's a lot easier to work."

Xiang Shaolong was secretly impressed. It turned out that in order to save Ying Zheng and his mother, Wu Yingyuan has started working on it a few years ago, that's why everything can move at such a breeze now.

Teng Yi asked nonchalantly, "There won't be any animals left behind for the Zhaos?"

Master Wu replied calmly, "Of course!"

Xiang Shaolong can't bear to think of the scene where the farms will be filled with the corpses of cows and horses, but they have no choice but to do this.

He changed the topic, "The most important thing now is how many days we can defend the fortress, the longer we withstand them the better the chance of us escaping."

Teng Yi and Tao Fang were just informed about the secret tunnel so they understood his meaning.

Because the Zhaos will think that they are trapped in the stockade and will not send anyone to go after them, while Zhu Ji and her son can leave the city via the tunnel. So the longer they can hold the stockade, the further they can escape, to the extent that they may even reach Xianyang before the border guards receive any news.

Wu Zhuo replied, "You can count on me and Teng Yi for this. Within these few days I will secretly move the equipment and men needed to defend the stockade in and hide them well while Brother Teng will be in charge of teaching them the art of defending a city."

Wu Yingyuan told Tao Fang, "Master Tao better transfer those outsiders somewhere else and try to dismiss the unrelated maids and servants. As for the song courtesans, chose the best ones and send them out of the city, but you must pretend to be secretive about all these."

Everyone else, with the exception of Teng Yi and Xiang Shaolong, all laughed.

The former because he has seldom smiled since the horrible deaths of his wife and children while Xiang Shaolong is because he thought of Master Wu's decision to perish together with the stockade.

He can't help but utter, "Grandfather…"

Master Wu interrupted, "This matter can only be washed with blood, so that the descendents of the Wu family will never forget their hatred with the Zhaos. Whoever wants to deal with the Wu family will have to pay a terrible price."

He sighed softly and a look of reminiscence shot out from his eyes as he said slowly, "Our forefathers are actually Qin royalty, but because of strife we were forced to end up in Zhao. Depending on our unyielding resolution, we set up a farm in the deserted areas and became the world's number one livestock farm. Now my descendents are finally returning home while I can only die heroically. That life has turned out this way, what more can a man ask."

Wu Zhuo was silent while Wu Yingyuan and Tao Fang looked miserable.

A look of respect shot out from Teng Yi's eyes as he said emotionally, "Good man!"

Master Wu smiled and stood up with some trouble, saying "That's why I am going to enjoy myself to the fullest for the next few days, do not bother me if there's nothing important."

He chortled and under the looks of everyone present, left the room humming a tune.

Teng Yi and Xiang Shaolong walked side-by-side back to the inner hall and asked, "What do you plan to do with Qian'er?"

Xiang Shaolong knows that he dotes on this pretty princess and was worried that he will abandon her so he assured him, "I will bring her along no matter what."

Teng Yi was assured and turned around to look for Wu Zhuo.

That evening, Master Wu held a secret wedding ceremony for Xiang Shaolong and Wu Tingfang and at the same time accepted Ting Fangshi as his mistress, so that both now have a formal status.

That night Xiang Shaolong infiltrated the Hostage Residence with Jing Jun again.

Xiang Shaolong was familiar with the place and avoided the guards on patrol, coming to Zhu Ji's bedchamber. The 2 of them hid on the bed and talked secretively.

Zhu Ji's pretty face is on the same pillow as him, her body pressed tightly against him. Because she is lying on her side, sounds of her alluring breathing drifted into his ears following her breaths and that sort of pull is something no man can resist.

Luckily Xiang Shaolong's eyes were staring straight ahead at the top of the curtained bed or else once he sees her eyes, he will definitely not be able to control himself and do something that he should not have.

In this era where men holds power, women all knows how to use their natural charms to control men. Zhu Ji is exactly one of the best in this area. Or else King Zhuangxiang won't be pining away for her and intelligent men like the bisexual Zhao Mu and Guo Kai won't be enamored with her at the same time.

Zhu Ji did not talk about business first and instead asked, "You have not fallen for that s.lut Zhao Ya?"

Xiang Shaolong thought to himself that women are women after all. Time is precious yet Zhu Ji has the inclination to talk about such gossip, so he can only accede to her and asked, "Are you familiar with her?"

Zhu Ji answered unhappily, "Zhao Mu used to bring her to my place in the past, do you consider that familiar?"

Xiang Shaolong remembered that Zhao Ya once hinted that she has something going on with that fake Ying Zheng, so it seems that it's under Zhao Mu's instructions that she was doing such ridiculous things. He felt a wave of nausea and at the same time felt as if he has been released, because he no longer need to be responsible for Zhao Ya relationship-wise.

Zhu Ji suddenly laughed lightly and said smugly, "Zhao Mu may be wily, but he is definitely not our match. You should know how to make good use of this s.lut!"

Xiang Shaolong secretly thought her formidable, she was able to see through his plans immediately. He took a deep breath and said, "If the plan succeeds, it'll really be all thanks to her help." He can't help but ask, "Lady! Where exactly is your son?"

Zhu Ji replied, "First tell me your plan, I can only tell you after I decide if it's viable."

After going through so many experiences, Xiang Shaolong has learnt not to reveal everything. He told her the gist of the plan but omitted the most important part about the secret tunnel in the Wu family and changed the escape route to be from the west of the city.

Zhu Ji is already very satisfied and kissed his cheek gently, her slender hand caressing his broad chest and asked flirtatiously, "Your waist is so hard, what is tied around there?"

Xiang Shaolong replied, "It's equipment that can make me fly over walls and needles that can kill silently."

Zhu Ji's expression changed, "Does Zhao Ya know you have such abilities?"

Xiang Shaolong thought carefully and shook his head, "Although she has seen them before, I've never explained how they are used. Besides it seems that she is still hoping that I can escape alone and should not have told Zhao Mu about it."

Zhu Ji heaved a sigh of relief and whispered in his ear, "We cannot just depend on luck. Can you bring me some strong drugs tomorrow, if need be, I want to think of a way to slip out myself."

Xiang Shaolong is beginning to think that this woman is not simple at all and asked with a furrowed brow, "Even if we can drug the maids who are guarding you, we won't be able to pass the guards. You must not believe Guo Kai, he's just lying to get your body."

Zhu Ji guffawed, "Only a fool would believe him. The person I want to drug is him. This is the only route to escape after I pondered on this problem day and night over the last 10 years. I want to drug him because his build and weight is about the same as me. I only need to prop my shoes higher and tie something like what you have in my clothes."

She continued with a sigh, "Hai! If I don't find something to do, I'd go crazy being locked up like this." She paused and continued in a sharp voice that sounded exactly like Guo Kai, "That's why I imitated his way of talking and actions everyday. If not for the fact that I know I won't be able to go far, or else I would have slipped away long ago."

Xiang Shaolong was bowled over and complimented her sincerely, "You did a really great imitation."

Footsteps were heard from outside the door and Xiang Shaolong hurriedly hid in the secret compartment.

The maids opened the door and came into the room, lifting up the curtains on the bed and only left after seeing Zhu Ji who was pretending to be asleep.

Xiang Shaolong squeezed out.

Zhu Ji leaned over again and hugged him, saying, "There's a man under Buwei who is adept in the skill of disguise…"

Xiang Shaolong interrupted her, "You're referring to Xiao Yuetan, I just met him!"

Zhu Ji exclaimed happily, "Only now do I trust you wholeheartedly. All right! I'll tell you, although I do not know the skill of disguise, but I had learnt some tricks from him in the past out in interest. When I am feeling bored everyday I will try to think of a way to disguise myself as Guo Kai. I'm confident that unless I meet someone familiar, or else no one will be able to tell."

Xiang Shaolong sighed secretly, from this one can tell how much Zhu Ji yearns to leave this cage, and he can also see her fierce determiniation during such dire situation.

Zhu Ji said, "Most importantly you must bring me the drugs. Man is strange, regardless of comitting good or bad deeds, once things get started it'll be difficult to control, so soo ner or later Zhao Ya will betray you totally. With Zhao Mu's cautious and suspicious nature, he will certainly increase the number of people guarding this place."

Xiang Shaolong agreed, "Now that you've said this, I too feel a bad omen. If Zhao Mu finds out that I have the ability to move about over high places, he will certainly pinpoint on this area and deal with it." He then sat up.

Zhu Ji asked in alarm, "What are you doing?"

Xiang Shaolong did not reply her but moved to the side of the window and looked out, and it happened that a team of patrol just walked past. After they left, ha made a signal to Jing Jun who was outside and in a short while, that lad slipped in swiftly through the window like a civet cat.

After Xiang Shaolong instructed him to return to the Wu family to take the drugs and saw him leaving safely, he went back to the bed.

Zhu Ji stared at him with her large eyes and said, "So you actually have someone who is so highly skilled helping you, no wonder Zhao Mu is so wary of you."

Xiang Shaolong replied, "Lady, you better tell me quickly the matter regarding the Crown Prince!"

Zhu Ji said languidly, "Why the anxiety? You still have to wait for him to take the thing here before you leave. You don't even know how torturous it is for me to keep everything to myself and it's not easy for me to find someone like you to talk to."

Xiang Shaolong felt both anger and humor over this and cajoled her, "Take it that I beg of you?"

Zhu Ji was ecstatic and she used her wiles and asked gently, "Shaolong! Will you kiss me?"

Xiang Shaolong had no choice but to turn his head around only to see her enigmatic and flirtatious eyes staring at him unwaveringly.

Their eyes locked for a moment and Zhu Ji took the initiative to kiss his lips, her slender body lightly moving against his.

Waves of giddiness swept over his body and Xiang Shaolong's lust was immediately aroused uncontrollably.

Zhu Ji's fragrant lips moved apart a little and she said with a light laugh, "And I thought you're a weirdo who will not be moved, so it turns out that you're no different from other men."

Xiang Shaolong felt irritation and because of this his attention was diverted and he suppressed his lust while exclaiming angrily, "Lady!"

Zhu Ji extended 2 fingers and pressed on his mouth, and as if cajoling a kid, said, "Don't be angry, I sincerely want to be close to you!"

Just when Xiang Shaolong could do nothing about her, Zhu Ji said with a serious tone, "At that time in order to avoid being seen, Buwei and my husband did not bring me with them. I had just given birth to a son then and he was not even a month old. After they left, I knew the situation is not right and the Zhaos may very well kill Zheng'er to appease their anger so that night I ordered my servant to go find another baby to take Zheng'er's place."

Xiang Shaolong was enlightened, "So that's how the fake Ying Zheng came about."

Zhu Ji said with worry, "Things done in a hurry will certainly have loopholes. We can't find a baby around the same age at such short notice so we could only pay a large sum of money to buy a 3 year old kid to replace him. Luckily at that time no one thought highly of my husband and they don't even know if he has children. That night when Zhao Mu found out that Lu Buwei and my husband had left, he sentenced all the maids and servants to death in fury, leaving only me and my fake son but his suspicions were not aroused at all."

Only now did Xiang Shaolong understand, no wonder Ying Zheng's age is different from the history books, so the real situation is so twisted.

The battle of Changping happened during 260BC, and he has been here for a few years and now it is 249BC, a difference of 11 years.

If Emperor Qin was born in Zhao after the defeat of Changping, and with the difficulty in news being passed during this ancient era, the news may have been delayed by one year. Therefore Ying Zheng should be born at the beginning of the year, the year after the defeat at Changping, and he ascended the throne on 246BC, which is only 3 years away from now. Hence he should be 13 years old by then, which proves that the history books were correct.

He's so stupid not to have guessed that this Ying Zheng is a fake one.

The things that he could not figure out in the past immediately became logical.

This is more reasonable, with Emperor Qin's intellect and bravery, how can he be a useless person.

Zhu Ji took out from within her clothes an exquisite jade piece with a unique design, with a phoenix carved on it. She removed it and somberly pressed it into Xiang Shaolong's hand and used his palm to cover it up, her 2 hands grabbing his hardened fists tightly and said gently, "The real Zheng'er has been sent to a poor family in Handan who had just lost 2 sons in the defeat of Changping, and it's been agreed that in future this jade piece will be used to identify each other. Zheng'er has the same jade piece hung around his neck. This has a phoenix carved on it while his has a dragon carved on it."

Xiang Shaolong asked, "Does that couple know about the Crown Prince's background?"

Zhu Ji's eyes revealed both joy and worry and she was so nervous her breathing quickened as she breathed out, "Of course we can't let them know, we just told them he's an illegitimate son borne by a girl from a rich family. At that time I didn't expect to be put under house arrest immediately and the servant who knew about the matter has been killed. Therefore I only have the opportunity to tell you this matter when you came today. Heavens! You must find him for me, or else I won't want to live either."

Xiang Shaolong can feel the remaining body warmth of Zhu Ji from the jade piece in his hands and he said confidently, "I can guarantee with my head, I will certainly find him."

Of course he is confident, or else history would not have ended up thus.

Zhu Ji whimpered, "Don't try to cajole me."

Xiang Shaolong replied, "I am someone with special abilities, my intuition will certainly not go wrong."

Zhu Ji looked at him doubtfully for a moment before moving to his ears and telling him the secret in her heart, the name and address of the person who took in her son.

Xiang Shaolong memorized it.

There was a soft sound at the window, Jing Jun has returned and he was carrying a big bag of drugs and came grinning to the curtain. He was eyeing Zhu Ji up and down and was immediately dumbfounded and forgot to speak.

Zhu Ji giggled and naturally she looked alluring.

Xiang Shaolong said with a reprimanding tone, "Xiao Jun!"

Only then did Jing Jun's senses return and he said, "This is a very strong drug, just a little can knock a person out for a day and even cold water won't rouse him. There's enough here to knock out over a hundred people."

They could hear hoof beats coming nearer from afar.

Zhu Ji and Xiang Shaolong were both stunned and knows that Zhu Ji has indeed made the correct guess about Zhao Ya.

Xiang Shaolong knows that not only is Zhao Ya sinking deeper and deeper, but she has been controlled by Zhao Mu again, or else Zhao Mu won't have sent people here to increase defenses in the middle of the night. Obviously Zhao Ya has revealed to Zhao Mu in bed regarding his ability.

After he hurriedly made an agreement with Zhu Ji on the time and place for escape, the 2 of them left swiftly.

They've just climbed over the wall when the guards came rushing over from where the fake Ying Zheng stayed to start a new defense formation.

From this moment on, this resilient mother of Emperor Qin, will have to use her own strength and intellect to escape.