Chapter 3:The Gathering of Allies

As the dawn broke over the horizon, releasing golden rays that danced across the dewy grass, Mao Li and Yi Ming embarked on a journey to gather allies—individuals who would stand beside them in the inevitable confrontation with Lady Li. Their path was uncertain, threading through villages, military camps, and ancient forests, but their resolve was unwavering.

Their first destination was the renowned Nine Dragons Academy, a prestigious military school known for training elite warriors. It was an esteemed institution, not just for its rigorous curriculum but for the connections its graduates maintained. For Mao Li, it represented a chance to rekindle old relationships and bring forth allies who once admired her.

As they approached the tall gates adorned with a symbol of a dragon, memories flooded back. The laughter of her peers, the intensity of training sessions, and the camaraderie that had once thrived within those walls reignited a fire in her heart.

"Stay close," Yi Ming instructed, leading her through the bustling courtyard. The sound of feet pounding on the ground and the clang of steel resonated through the air, filling her with nostalgia—and determination.

They walked past clusters of students practising forms, emblazoned with determination, and instructors shouting encouragement. The aura of strength and valour invigorated Mao Li, feeding her ambition.

"Over there," Yi Ming said, pointing toward a group of familiar faces. "That's Zhao Lin and Cheng Wei. They were both top graduates, and each led their battalions into successful campaigns."

Mao Li's heart raced. "I remember them! We shared many debates in strategy classes."

As they approached, the laughter among the students faded, turning into whispers and murmurs as heads turned. It was a sight that would have intimidated many, but all it did for Mao Li was amplify her purpose.

"Zhao Lin! Cheng Wei!" she called, her voice strong and steady.

The two men turned, their expressions shifting from curiosity to shock. "Mistress Mao?" Zhao Lin exclaimed, stepping forward, his eyes widening. "Is it truly you?"

"It is!" she exclaimed, meeting their astonished gazes. "I'm sorry for the abruptness, but I need your help. There's a matter of great urgency."

Cheng Wei looked closely at her, noticing the slight tremor in her movements, perhaps an echo of her past struggles. "You were once undefeated on the battlefield. To see you now, it's… unbelievable."

"I've faced challenges, but I am rising again," Mao Li asserted, determination flowing through her voice. "And I need loyal friends like you beside me. Lady Li has wronged me, and I intend to confront her."

Zhao Lin's eyes gleamed with determination, and he glanced at Cheng Wei. "Together, we can help you restore what you've lost. We owe you our loyalty. You led us through exams, rivalries, and difficult training."

"Not to mention," Cheng Wei added with a smirk, "we'll take pleasure in watching you gather your strength again."

Mao Li felt warmth blooming in her chest. "Then let's devise a plan. We will need more than just courage if we are to confront Lady Li and regain my rightful place."

The group huddled together, formulating strategies while pulling in others who trained nearby, slowly gathering a cohort that had once respected her prowess. Word spread quickly through the academy; whispers of the rising general returned with vengeance piqued interest—a few warriors approached, eager to lend their strength.

"Count me in," declared a warrior named Xiu, known for her unmatched archery skills. Her presence radiated an aura of power, her stature unyielding. "I have dealt with Lady Li before. Her arrogance knows no bounds. She'll learn not to underestimate those she believes are weak."

"I'll call on my allies in the nearby militaries," Zhao Lin added. "Together, we can make a formidable force."

With encouragement from Yi Ming, Mao Li's confidence surged higher. The energy surrounding them crackled; each voice added to the symphony of their rebellion, the gathering of allies empowering her spirit.

As night fell, they shared stories and memories that wove the fabric of their unity. Laughter and warmth flickered in the dim light of their campfire, celebrating the strength found in returning to one another.

Mao Li's heart swelled as she watched her friends—once her disciples in strategy, now her comrades in battle—sharing bits of wisdom and planning tactics. She recalled how every lesson she had imparted had now returned to her tenfold, amplifying her greatness.

Days turned into weeks as their numbers swelled. With townsfolk rallying behind her cause, they attracted seasoned warriors, traders, and those who had benefited from her past leadership. The whispers of her rebirth travelled like wildfire, kindling a blaze of defiance against the cruelty of Lady Li's household.

The mountains surrounding their hideout became the backdrop for training exercises. With Yi Ming's martial prowess and Mao Li's strategic acumen, they sculpted their troops into a cohesive force.

Mao Li felt invigorated—as if reborn among these people who believed in her potential. With each passing day, her spirit sharpened. She trained tirelessly with her companions, each clash of swords ringing like a promise that she was returning, reclaiming her strength from the depths of doubt and fear.

One evening, as the moon blazed overhead, reflecting brightly on the faces of her comrades, Mao Li stood at the forefront of her assembled warriors, her heart pounding with anticipation

"Tomorrow marks the beginning of our journey," she declared, her voice echoing through the quiet night. "We will march to face Lady Li, not just for my honour but for every person who has been belittled or dismissed. Together, we will show her the strength we hold—the strength that thrives in unity!"

Cheers erupted from the crowd, rising like a tide, overwhelming the night air, awakening a fervour deep within them all.

For the first time since her blindness, Mao Li glimpsed a future of possibility, one that shimmered brightly on the horizon. Guided by her allies, molded by her will, and surrounded by a camaraderie she had long missed, she prepared to reclaim her place—not just as the "Flying Phoenix General" but as a leader who had overcome darkness and emerged even stronger.

As they joined together, their spirits intertwined like roots beneath the surface, Mao Li felt an undeniable sense of kinship and resilience. The time had come; the phoenix would rise and take flight. Together, they would face whatever awaited them in the challenging days ahead.