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Upon hearing this, Fan Zhuo put down the bamboo tube, his ruddy face slightly losing its smile, and his fierce eyes looked at Feng Zhen. He knew that the main event was about to begin. With a wave of his hand, Fan Changlong understood, immediately stood up, and led several guards to retreat outside the hall to stand guard, leaving the hall door slightly ajar.

“Brother Fengzhen is absolutely right.”

Fan Zhuo said in a deep voice, lowering his tone, "The Li Clan is very powerful in Guanzhong, and its tentacles have begun to extend into Shu. Although the Dugu Clan has a grudge against the Li Clan, its strength is not what it used to be. It is still unknown whether it can withstand the pressure from the Li Clan. Not to mention, there are Xue Ju and Li Gui in the north, and Tiandao Alliance and Du Fuwei in the east, all of whom are eyeing us covetously. If we in Bashu cannot unite as one, I am afraid that we will be devoured by these hungry wolves sooner or later."

Feng Zhen's lean face showed a look of deep agreement: "Brother Fan sees things clearly! Lord Jie of Duzun Fortress is a man of great talent and ambition, and has close ties with the Song Clan of Lingnan. He is naturally sitting on his laurels. But if we, the gangs and tribes rooted in our homeland, cannot protect ourselves, we may not even be able to get a sip of soup in the future. The Sichuan Gang controls the land and water trade routes, while our Ba Alliance is rooted in the dangerous mountains and forests. Our two families can be said to be interdependent."

He leaned forward slightly and lowered his voice: "To be honest, Brother Fan, Sina, Elder Jiaoluofeng, and General Chuanmouxunfeng, we have discussed this many times. We all believe that in order to protect our respective foundations and interests in this chaotic world, the Chuan Gang and the Ba Alliance must go further and form a true alliance of offense and defense, not just the tacit understanding and occasional cooperation we had before."

Fan Zhuo's eyes flashed, and he tapped his fingers lightly on the table: "Going a step further? Brother Feng Zhen means...?"

"Resource sharing, intelligence exchange, and full support from the other side when one side is in trouble."

Feng Zhen spoke slowly but clearly: "For example, when Sichuan merchants' caravans pass through mountain roads and waterways controlled by the Ba Alliance, the Ba Alliance ensures their safety and provides the most favorable toll fees. Similarly, when the Ba Alliance needs salt, iron, cloth, and other supplies, the Sichuan merchants must provide them with priority and at reasonable prices. If any external force attempts to invade either of our territories, the other party must unconditionally send troops and personnel to jointly defend against the enemy. Even... on major issues involving the overall interests of Sichuan and Chongqing, we must stand together and speak with one voice."

Fan Zhuo was silent for a moment, then slowly said, "I agree with Brother Feng Zhen's proposal in principle. The benefits of cooperation between the Sichuan Gang and the Ba Alliance outweigh the drawbacks. However... the details still need to be considered. For example, how should the scope of 'unconditional military intervention' be defined? If it's just a minor conflict between you and other tribes, should our Sichuan Gang also mobilize all its forces? Also, regarding joint action... if it concerns the attitude of Duzun Fortress or the Song Clan, how should we conduct ourselves?"

Feng Zhen seemed to have been prepared, and immediately replied, "Brother Fan has considered everything thoroughly. This 'unconditional' naturally refers to dealing with the Li Clan or other powerful external forces that intend to annex our territory. Internal disputes will be resolved according to our own rules. As for Duzun Fort and the Song Clan..."

After a pause, a sly glint flashed in Feng Zhen's eyes: "It is true that Lord Jie and Lord Song are related by marriage, but they have lofty ambitions and are eyeing the entire world. As long as we do not touch their fundamental interests in Sichuan and can demonstrate enough value in stabilizing the region and resisting foreign aggression, they will be happy to see it happen. What we want is to have more autonomy in their game, rather than becoming a pawn."

A glint flashed in Fan Zhuo's eyes; Feng Zhen's words had truly struck a chord with him.

The Sichuan Gang rose from humble beginnings. Although it maintained friendly relations with Duzunbao, it was always wary of being completely absorbed by it. Forming an alliance with the Ba Alliance would indeed greatly enhance the Sichuan Gang's influence in Sichuan and Chongqing, giving it more leverage when facing Duzunbao and other external forces.

"Brother Fengzhen is indeed quick-witted and has a keen eye."

Fan Zhuo smiled again: "This matter is of great importance and cannot be decided by me alone. I need to return to the gang and discuss it with the elders. But I can give you a definite answer: the Sichuan Gang is absolutely sincere in its intention to forge a closer alliance with the Ba Alliance. We can find another time to invite the core figures from both sides to finalize the specific terms."

Upon hearing this, Feng Zhen felt a great weight lifted from his heart, and his smile broadened even further: "With Brother Fan's words, I'm relieved! This matter isn't urgent; we can take it slow and steady. Today's most important event is my mother's birthday; Brother Fan, you must enjoy a hearty drink!"

"That's exactly right!" Fan Zhuo laughed heartily.

With the business at hand progressing smoothly, both men felt much more relaxed. After chatting for a while about anecdotes from the martial arts world and the local customs of Sichuan, Feng Zhen, estimating that it was about time, stood up and said, "Brother Fan, the auspicious time has arrived. Please move to the main hall to attend my mother's birthday celebration."

"Very well! I was just about to kowtow to the old lady in person to wish her a happy birthday!"

Fan Zhuo readily agreed.

The two walked out of the side hall and into the main hall of the watchtower. By this time, the main hall was already crowded with people, including the village elders and Feng Zhen's family members.

Just then, a commotion arose outside the village gate. Feng Zhen looked up and saw a group of people dressed in Yao ethnic costumes slowly walking into the village gate, led by "Meiji" Sina.

Today, Sina was even more radiant and beautiful than usual. She wore a Yao ethnic dress embroidered with colorful patterns, a heavy silver necklace around her neck, and layers of silver bracelets on her wrists, jingling as she walked. Her wheat-colored skin glowed with a healthy sheen in the sunlight, and her large eyes smiled into crescent shapes.

"Brother Feng, congratulations!"

Sina's voice was clear and melodious, like a lark in the mountains: "This is a small token of our Yao village's appreciation for the old lady's 70th birthday."

Behind her, a young Yao man carried several large boxes filled with Yao specialties such as medicinal herbs, brocade, and silverware. Sina personally presented an exquisite wooden box, inside which was a uniquely shaped Ganoderma lucidum, purplish-red in color, with a smooth, lacquer-like surface—clearly a rare treasure.

Sina bowed gracefully, saying, "This is a blood-ganoderma that we found by chance in the old forest. It is said to have the effect of prolonging life, and we are presenting it to you, Madam."

Feng Zhen quickly returned the greeting, a hint of emotion flashing in his eyes: "Sister Sina, you're too kind. I thank you on behalf of my mother for such a valuable gift."

Sina smiled and walked up to the old lady, bowing deeply once more: "May the old lady enjoy boundless happiness and longevity!"

The old lady clearly adored Sina, holding her hand and talking to her for quite a while. Sina responded obediently, occasionally making the old lady laugh heartily.

Just as Feng Zhen was about to lead Si Na to a seat, the sound of horses' hooves came again from outside the village gate. This time, it was a Miao ethnic group that had arrived, led by none other than "Elder" Jiao Luofeng.

Jiao Luofeng was still dressed in dark Miao clothing, but the iron staff that symbolized power had been replaced with a more exquisitely carved longevity staff, the head of which was inlaid with a turquoise the size of a pigeon's egg. Although he was old, his steps were still steady, and the Miao youths behind him carried various gifts—bundles of precious timber, exquisite Miao embroidery, and several cages of rare mountain birds.

"Brother Feng, congratulations."

Jiao Luofeng's voice was deep and powerful as he gave Feng Zhen a unique shoulder-bump greeting: "How is the old lady's health?"

"Thanks to the elders, my mother is in good health."

Feng Zhen replied with a smile, and personally led Luo Feng to visit his mother.

Jiao Luofeng walked up to the old lady, solemnly performed a Miao-style salute, and then took out a small wooden box from his bosom: "This is a hundred-year-old He Shou Wu that I found deep in the Miao Mountains. It has taken the shape of a human. I hope that after the old lady takes it, she will be healthy and live a long and blessed life."

The old lady thanked her repeatedly and instructed Fengzhen to make sure she was treated well.

The arrival of the two leaders made the birthday banquet even more lively. Everyone stood up to pay their respects. Although Chuanmu Xun himself was unable to attend due to his border patrol, he sent his capable subordinates with generous gifts.

Feng Zhen arranged for the group to be seated at the main table. A huge statue of the "Heavenly God Mubita" hung on the north side of the main hall. In front of the statue was an incense table covered with a red cloth, upon which were placed a whole roasted lamb, various mountain delicacies and fruits, and offerings such as barley wine. Behind the incense table, the old lady, supported by her daughter-in-law and granddaughter, sat upright in a grand chair draped with a tiger skin, her face radiant and her spirits high.

A respected elder priest from the village shouted, "The auspicious time has arrived! The birthday celebrant shall receive the ceremony!" Instantly, the hall fell silent.

First, Feng Zhen led his entire family in performing the three bows and nine kowtows ceremony to his mother. Feng Zhen's expression was solemn, and he completed each movement meticulously. Next, the village elders and heads of each branch of the family took turns stepping forward to kowtow and offer their birthday wishes.

When it was the turn of the guests, Fan Zhuo stepped forward without hesitation. He straightened his clothes, knelt on the prepared prayer mat, and his loud voice resounded throughout the hall:
"Fan Zhuo from Sichuan wishes the old lady a long and healthy life, and that she may live as long as the pine and cypress! This is just a small gift, nothing more, but I hope the old lady will accept it with a smile!"

Behind him, Sichuanese disciples carried out the prepared birthday gifts, including the usual gold, silver, and silk, as well as several boxes of precious medicinal herbs from Chengdu and a set of exquisite porcelain, showing great sincerity.

Soma smiled and nodded repeatedly, offering a slight gesture of support: "Chief Fan, you're too kind. Please rise, please rise! I cannot accept such a grand gesture."

After Fan Zhuo stood up, representatives from Sina, Kakuro, and Kawamura also stepped forward to offer their congratulations.

After the birthday ceremony, the grand birthday banquet officially began. Everyone moved to the courtyard and several adjacent halls, where dozens of long wooden tables had already been set up, laden with delicious Qiang ethnic specialties: large chunks of meat, fragrant barley wine, fresh grilled fish, various wild mountain vegetables and mushrooms, buckwheat pancakes... The aroma was irresistible, making everyone's mouths water.

As the host, Feng Zhen was naturally the busiest person at the event. He moved between the tables, constantly toasting the guests, especially paying special attention to distinguished guests such as Fan Zhuo and Sina.

Fan Zhuo was also a generous man. He drank his wine in one gulp and chatted and laughed with Feng Zhen, Sina and others, creating a harmonious and warm atmosphere. Fan Changlong sat to the left of his uncle. Although he didn't talk much, he was well-mannered and occasionally exchanged a few words with Jiao Luoxiong, who was sitting next to him.

After several rounds of drinks and several dishes, the atmosphere became even more lively.

Young Qiang men and women began to dance the joyful "Shalang" dance around the huge bonfire in the center of the courtyard. The sounds of leather drums and Qiang flutes were exciting and cheerful, and the dance steps were vigorous and powerful, full of vitality and enthusiasm.

Fan Zhuo watched with great interest and said to Feng Zhen, "I've long heard that the Qiang people's songs and dances are unique. Seeing them today, I can confirm that they live up to their reputation. They are much more flavorful than the soft and gentle songs and dances in Chengdu!"

Feng Zhen laughed and said, "I'm glad that this rustic pleasure is to Brother Fan's liking. Come, let me toast you again, Brother Fan, to thank you for coming from afar, and even more so for your support of the alliance!"

"Cheers!" Fan Zhuo raised his glass and drank it all in one gulp.

The banquet was in full swing, with crackling bonfires and resounding Qiang songs.

Just as everyone was slightly tipsy, Feng Zhen's trusted subordinate Yan Sang walked hurriedly through the dancing crowd with a serious expression, and went straight to Feng Zhen, who was at the main table chatting and laughing with Fan Zhuo.

Yan Sang leaned down and whispered a few words quickly in Feng Zhen's ear.

In an instant, the flush on Feng Zhen's face from the alcohol and celebration, and the smile in his eyes, froze abruptly, then quickly vanished. His lean body tensed for a moment, and the fingers gripping the wine glass tightened unconsciously, his knuckles turning slightly white.

How could such a subtle change escape the notice of a few seasoned veterans who were right next to them?

Fan Zhuo's hearty smile was still on his face, but the drunkenness in his tiger-like eyes had mostly dissipated, replaced by a hint of surprise and doubt. He put down his wine cup, sat up slightly, and naturally exuded the calm aura of a rough-and-tumble overlord, asking in a low voice, "Brother Feng, what is it?"

Sina sat at the next table, chatting and laughing with Jiao Luofeng, seemingly engrossed in the festivities, but in reality, she was keeping a close watch on everything around her. The subtle change in Feng Zhen's expression, and Yan Sang's hurried figure, immediately caught her attention. Her bright smile remained, but the light in her expressive eyes instantly deepened and sharpened, and her slender fingers holding the wine glass paused slightly.

Jiao Luofeng noticed the sudden stagnation in the atmosphere at the table. He frowned slightly, put down the lamb leg in his hand, and looked at Feng Zhen and Fan Zhuo with a questioning gaze.

Feng Zhen took a deep breath, forced a smile back onto his face, and whispered, "Brother Jiao... there are uninvited guests outside the village."

He paused, then lowered his voice to an even lower, almost inaudible tone, “The envoys from Chang’an, whose leader identified himself as… Li Xiaogong and Changsun Wuji.”

"what?!"

Fan Zhuo almost cried out in surprise and turned his head sharply to look at Feng Zhen.

Li Xiaogong! A member of the Li Tang imperial family, now that Li Yuan has become emperor, he holds a prestigious position and is a highly sought-after figure in the Li Tang army!

Changsun Wuji, though young, was a trusted advisor to Li Shimin, the second son of Li Yuan, and his sister was Li Shimin's wife! These two men, who were either assisting Li Yuan in Chang'an or fighting alongside the army when the Tang Dynasty had just been established and the country was still unstable, why would they suddenly appear in this Qiang village on the banks of the Min River to celebrate the birthday of an old woman from another ethnic group?

Sina's bright smile vanished completely. Her red lips parted slightly, and she murmured in a voice only those around her could hear, "Li Xiaogong... Changsun Wuji... the reach of the Li Tang dynasty is faster and longer than we imagined..."

His gaze swept across Fan Zhuo and Feng Zhen, clearly he was rapidly considering what this sudden change meant for the Ba Meng, the Sichuan Gang, and even the entire Bashu region.

Jiao Luofeng stood up abruptly, his face filled with vigilance and a hint of barely perceptible hostility. The Ba Meng (Ba League) had always been cautious in its dealings with Han Chinese forces outside the region, especially with an envoy representing the newly emerging and powerful Li Tang Dynasty.

Noticing the unusual behavior of the leaders, the atmosphere around the main table suddenly turned cold. The cheerful Qiang songs, lively dances, and boisterous toasts seemed to be blocked by an invisible barrier.

Feng Zhen's mind raced. The timing of the Li Tang envoy's arrival—on his mother's birthday and with Fan Zhuo, the leader of the Chuan Gang, present—was no coincidence! Was it a demonstration? An attempt to win him over? Or was there some other motive? He glanced at Fan Zhuo, whose face showed shock and solemnity, and then at Sina, who was frighteningly calm. He knew that he absolutely could not lose his composure at this moment.

Composing himself, he solemnly instructed Yan Sang, "All who come are guests, especially distinguished guests who have traveled from afar. Open the gates wide and welcome them with courtesy! Invite them in!"

"Yes!" Yan Sang accepted the order and quickly left.

Feng Zhen then turned to Fan Zhuo and the others: "Brother Fan, this matter is sudden. The purpose of the Li Tang envoy's visit is unclear. But since he has come, we cannot be impolite and must be careful in our dealings with him. Later, we will need you all to act according to the circumstances."

Fan Zhuo took a deep breath, his face regaining its usual composure, but his eyes were sharp as knives: "Brother Feng, rest assured, I know what's important. It's a good opportunity to see what kind of person this distinguished guest from Chang'an is!"

Sina gently tidied her temples, a bright smile returning to her face: "Don't worry, Alliance Leader, Sina knows what to do." (End of Chapter)