The Heaven Sword radiated a bright blue light that pierced the sky. The energy emanating from the sacred blade surged outward, creating an intense pressure upon the Demon Finger Duo.However, the two warriors suddenly sheathed their swords. It seemed they wanted to fight barehanded.They realized that if they fought using sacred weapons, their chances of winning were extremely slim—perhaps even nonexistent.“If you dare, put away your swords! Let’s fight barehanded,” Zeng Kun shouted sternly.“Hahaha… You two aren’t in a position to make demands. But no matter, I’ll accept your challenge! Fang An, step aside. Let them feel the might of the Immortal Temple's technique,” Zhao Wen said as he sheathed his Demon Jade Sword.Zeng Kun flinched slightly when Zhao Wen mentioned the Immortal Temple. He had heard of the temple atop Mount Arjuno. As he recalled, the leader of the Immortal Temple wielded a green sword that emitted a brilliant green light.Now it made sense why his internal strengt

Meanwhile, on a barren hill, Fang An and Zhao Wen gathered all the Shang Dynasty officials who had joined the war.Inside the largest tent, Zhao Wen recounted the battle he had fought earlier at the edge of the forest."Tomorrow morning, all troops must be on full alert all day. I’m certain the Ying Dynasty's army is hiding in that forest. If they don’t attack by tomorrow, then tomorrow night or the next morning, Fang An and I will lure them out. Once they’ve taken the bait, the archers must be ready to unleash their arrows!"Wang Yihan was shocked by Zhao Wen's plan. So were Jaya, Lu Han, and Feng Shu."Elder, isn’t it too risky for just you and Fang An to lure them out?""Do you know who I am and what I’ve accomplished in the past? Together with Fang An’s father, I traveled across the archipelago and even to the Chinese mainland..." Zhao Wen suddenly realized he had revealed Fang An’s secret. He stopped mid-sentence.But it was too late. Everyone in the tent had already heard him. T

The soldier rubbed his chin. If the boy beside him thought that way, why hadn’t he? Who would care for his wife and children if he died? His own spirit dimmed."You’re right. Why didn’t I think that way?" he murmured."I’ll be back. My stomach’s upset," Fang An clutched his belly and stood. He had to report back to Zhao Wen.Without waiting for a response, Fang An ran back to where Zhao Wen was waiting."Why are you running like that?" Zhao Wen asked as Fang An crouched beside him. "Did they spot you?""No, Uncle. I pretended to have a stomachache so they wouldn’t get suspicious," Fang An chuckled."You’re not much different from your father," Zhao Wen shook his head. "So, what did you find out?""I learned they won’t attack until our forces run out of food.""No wonder they didn’t attack earlier today!" Zhao Wen growled, clenching a handful of soil tightly."What’s our plan now, Uncle? Do we stick to the original?"Zhao Wen nodded, eyes still fixed on the enemy camp. Though eager to

"Why are you all standing still!? Attack them!" Cai Rui shouted furiously, his voice cracking with rage as he slammed a fist against his armored chest plate. Spittle flew from his lips as he gestured wildly toward Wang Yihan and the line of soldiers arrayed behind him, his face flushed crimson with fury.Not a single soldier dared to move forward. They stood rooted to the ground, their spears and swords hanging limp at their sides, their eyes fixed not on the enemy before them, but on the man they had once called their leader. They couldn't possibly bring themselves to fight Wang Yihan—a man they deeply admired, whose name had become synonymous with honor and compassion in the ranks of the Ying Dynasty’s military.Back when Wang Yihan still served as the Grand General, he had been more than just a commander to these men—he had been a father figure, a mentor, and a friend. In the harsh world of warfare, where discipline was often enforced through fear and punishment, he had stood apart

A Week Later...The Shang Dynasty’s forces finally arrived in the capital. News of their victory was met with wild celebrations by the city’s people. The gloomy, anxious expressions of the past days vanished entirely.Without a single guard escort, Princess Xian Lie ran from the palace. The news of the soldiers’ return stirred her emotions—she couldn’t wait to see her beloved.Without a trace of shame or regard for her royal dignity, the princess ran straight into Fang An’s arms at the front of the marching troops.Everyone watched and smiled broadly at the joy of the reunited couple.“The princess has changed so much,” said one citizen.“Indeed. She’s far more down to earth now,” his friend replied.“Is it because of that red-haired young man that she changed so drastically?”“Maybe. Look at how happy they are. I’m honestly jealous!” a young woman chimed in.Princess Xian Lie didn’t let go of Fang An’s hand as they walked toward the palace. Her sweet smile beamed at the citizens who