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The towering flames and deafening cheers of Pegasus Ranch were gradually left behind, merging into the deep night of the south.

Yi Huwei and Shan Wanjing did not follow the official road, but instead chose a more secluded mountain path, traveling day and night towards Xiangyang in the northwest.

The chestnut horse was exceptionally fine and had amazing stamina. Even carrying two people, it moved swiftly and lightly, making the rugged mountain road seem like flat ground.

A cool night breeze ruffled the stray hairs on Shan Wanjing's forehead. She sat quietly in front of Yi Huawei, feeling the calm and steadfast aura of her master behind her, a aura that seemed to shield her from all the storms of the world. A sense of peace settled in her heart.

Yi Huawei held the reins lightly with one hand, the other hanging naturally at his side, his green robe fluttering slightly in the night breeze. His mind was not on the Pegasus Ranch behind him, but had already turned to his destination—Xiangyang.

Xiangyang City, nestled against Mount Xian to the south and bordered by the Han River to the north, is a natural harbor where the mighty Han River widens and flows gently, controlling the middle reaches of the Han River. It is the crucial choke point connecting the Central Plains with the Jingchu and Bashu regions!
Going upstream along the Han River leads to Hanzhong and Guanzhong; going downstream leads directly to the Jianghan Plain and into the Yangtze River; and the land routes are even more extensive, connecting north to the Central Plains, south to Jiangling, west to Sichuan, and east to Wu and Yue. These water and land transportation hubs are truly vital strategic locations that military strategists must contend for.

Here, the Han River forms a massive "几"-shaped bend, and Xiangyang City sits on the north bank of this bend, surrounded by water on three sides (west, north, and east), with only the southern side relying on the foothills of Xian Mountain, forming a natural moat and barrier. The tall, thick city walls were built against the mountain and beside the water, the city walls were sturdy and the moat deep, and with Fancheng across the river, they formed a mutually reinforcing defensive line, creating an impregnable defensive line. Since ancient times, it has been known as "Xiangyang, the Ironclad Fortress"!
Xiangyang is located at the southern end of the Nanyang Basin, guarding the northern gateway of the "Jingxiang Corridor" from the Central Plains to the fertile Jianghan Plain. Occupying Xiangyang allows one to either advance and look towards the Central Plains or retreat and ensure the safety of the rich and fertile lands of Jingchu, giving it immense strategic depth.

In this chaotic era of warring states, Xiangyang's geographical location dictated that it could not remain a peaceful haven for long. Like the "center point" on a chessboard, its possession could revitalize the entire game, while its loss would leave one vulnerable at every turn. Whoever truly controlled Xiangyang would hold the lifeline of north-south transportation, possessing immense capital and strategic initiative in the struggle for supremacy.

If the Wagang Army wants to completely shake the foundation of the Sui Dynasty and seize Luoyang, the eastern capital, Xiangyang is the biggest threat to its flank and the best logistical supply base. Li Mi previously besieged the city, and although he retreated due to a shift in strategic focus, his covetousness has never been extinguished. Once he has freed up his resources, he will surely make a comeback!
Du Fuwei, Dou Jiande, and even the Li clan in Guanzhong all coveted Xiangyang. It would become the front line for various forces to openly and covertly compete, infiltrate, and win over each other.

With the deep roots of the Han River faction (Xianghan faction), Qian Duguan quickly filled the power vacuum after the collapse of the Sui Dynasty, firmly controlling shipping, taxation, and even private armies in Xiangyang and the middle reaches of the Han River. He proclaimed himself "Lord of Xiangyang" and was practically a local emperor.

In the original novel, Qian Duguan was well-versed in the ways of survival in chaotic times, adhering to a strategy of "playing both sides." He outwardly maintained "neutrality," but in reality, he was walking on thin ice. On one hand, he feigned compliance with Li Mi of Wagang, negotiating and maneuvering, and might even tacitly allow the infiltration of Wagang forces, attempting to avoid direct conflict.

Qian Duguan's ability to survive in such a precarious situation demonstrates his shrewd political skills. He successfully exploited the contradictions among various parties, temporarily sparing Xiangyang from the ravages of war.

However, this balance was extremely fragile. His "neutrality" was essentially based on a window of opportunity before the major powers of all sides had fully committed to vying for control of the area. His Han River faction's strength was utterly insignificant compared to true warlords like Wagang and Du Fuwei, who commanded hundreds of thousands of troops.

Li Mi's previous probing attack on the city had clearly exposed Qian Duguan's outward strength but inner weakness. Once Li Mi or Du Fuwei made up their minds and no longer cared about other directions, the fall of Xiangyang was only a matter of time. His so-called "independent kingdom" was nothing more than the calm before the storm.

"Master,"

Dan Wanjing's clear voice interrupted Yi Huawei's thoughts. She turned her head slightly, her blue eyes sparkling with curiosity under the starlight: "Is Xiangyang... that important? How does it compare to Pegasus Ranch?"

Yi Huawei withdrew his gaze from the distance and landed on the girl's hair, which was being blown by the night wind: "The Pegasus Ranch is a treasure trove; possessing it will strengthen the army. Xiangyang is the lifeline; possessing it will allow one to control the throat of the world and the lifeline of the north and south. Qian Duguan occupies this treasure land, yet he has no ambition to conquer the world; he only knows how to seek temporary peace. He is like a child carrying gold through a bustling market; his defeat is only a matter of time."

He paused, then turned his gaze to the northwest again, as if he had pierced through the mountains and seen the magnificent riverside city with its dim lights and turbulent undercurrents.

"This city should be returned to the way of Heaven."

The chestnut horse seemed to sense its master's intentions, letting out a triumphant neigh. Its four hooves flew, carrying the master and his apprentice, like a dark red lightning bolt, accelerating into the deep night leading to Xiangyang.

...............

As dawn broke, the darkness of night was dispelled.

Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing rode their horses to the north bank of the Han River, and the ancient city of Xiangyang, which guarded the Jianghan Plain and commanded the north and south, finally came into clear view.

Here, the mighty Han River forms a huge bend, its current gentle yet deep and wide. Boats shuttle back and forth on the river, and the docks are crowded with vessels of all sizes. The shouts of unloading cargo, the cries of merchants, and the curses of boatmen mingle with the fishy smell of the river, creating a bustling and noisy scene.

The towering city wall of Xiangyang was built along the water, its structure constructed of massive, bluish-gray stone blocks. Having withstood the ravages of time and the ravages of war, it appears heavy and weathered. The wall is heavily fortified with battlements, its corner towers soaring high, flags fluttering, and one can vaguely see soldiers in gleaming armor patrolling.

The massive city gates were already wide open, but the checks were exceptionally strict. Members of the gang, dressed in the distinctive blue-gray outfits of the Han River sect and carrying long and short weapons at their waists, scrutinized every person entering and leaving with sharp eyes, especially questioning out-of-towners carrying weapons or with bulging bags.

Several wanted posters were displayed at the city gate, adding to the somber atmosphere. A peculiar mixture of scents filled the air—the damp, fishy smell of the river, the dusty odor of goods from the docks, the aroma of food wafting from street eateries, and a subtle tension that belonged to the ebb and flow of power and chaos.

Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing slowly entered the city with the flow of people. The scene inside the city contrasted with the desolate atmosphere outside, yet it also revealed a kind of distorted prosperity.

The main street, paved with bluestone slabs, is wide and clean, with shops lining both sides, their banners fluttering in the breeze. Grain shops, cloth shops, blackware shops, money shops, restaurants, inns... everything is available, demonstrating Xiangyang's prosperity as a hub for water and land transportation.

However, closer observation reveals a different story: the common people walking on the streets lack the numbness often seen on the faces of refugees from the Central Plains, yet they also lack the composure of a truly peaceful place, their eyes carrying vigilance and a hint of barely perceptible worry. The number of martial arts practitioners carrying weapons has increased significantly, in groups of three or five, some hurrying along, others glancing around with shifty eyes.

Patrolling squads of Han River Sect disciples were also everywhere, their steps steady, their eyes fierce, maintaining a high level of vigilance for any movement on the streets. The entire city was like a taut string, with uneasy undercurrents surging beneath its prosperous surface.

Yi Huawei, with a calm expression, led the chestnut horse, King, and strolled along with Shan Wanjing. Shan Wanjing curiously surveyed this magnificent city, so different from Lingnan and pastures, while the chestnut horse, King, with its magnificent appearance, attracted many sidelong glances.

Arriving at a rather impressive three-story restaurant in the city center—"Wangjiang Tower"—Yi Huwei stopped. Built overlooking the river, the tower offered a wide view, making it an ideal spot for gathering information and observing the local scenery.

"Wanjing, rest here for a moment." Yi Huawei handed the reins to the waiter who came to greet them. The master and apprentice entered the restaurant.

The lobby on the first floor was already quite crowded and noisy. Yi Huawei didn't linger and led Shan Wanjing straight up to a private room on the third floor. The view from the third floor was excellent; looking out from the railing, the Han River flowed by, and the outline of Fancheng across the river was clearly visible.

The two chose a quiet spot by the window, ordered wine and dishes, and also some tea and snacks.

Yi Huawei's gaze calmly swept over the bustling streets and boats coming and going on the river below, but his mind was already enveloping the entire restaurant, and he could clearly hear any slightest sound within a hundred feet.

Not far across from them, another table of guests caught Shan Wanjing's attention. The people at that table had an extraordinary air about them, completely different from the江湖客 (jianghu ke, a term referring to people from the martial arts world) and merchants around them.

The woman seated at the head of the table appeared to be around twenty years old. Her beauty was exquisite, her skin as white as snow, her eyebrows like distant mountains, and her eyes like autumn water. Her every glance exuded the dignified grace of a noblewoman, yet also held a spirit and decisiveness that rivaled any man's. She wore a well-tailored, moon-white, arrow-sleeved outfit, over which she wore a soft, matching cloak, conveying both competence and nobility. Her long, black hair was simply styled with a single, elegant jade hairpin, which accentuated her long, jade-like neck. Her posture was as upright as a bamboo shoot; even seated, her tall, well-proportioned figure was evident. Her waist was slender, yet possessed a restrained strength. At this moment, her delicate brows were slightly furrowed, as if she were deep in thought, her slender fingers unconsciously tapping the table.

Seated to the woman's left was an elderly man of about fifty. His face was lean and refined, his long beard meticulously groomed, and his eyes were wise and composed, carrying the air of someone long accustomed to high office. He wore a dark blue brocade robe with a jade belt around his waist; his refined demeanor exuded competence, clearly that of a strategist or advisor. He held a cup of tea in his hand, his gaze lowered, seemingly listening, or perhaps lost in thought.

To the woman's right stood a burly, resolute middle-aged man. Dressed in a black warrior's uniform, his muscles bulged, stretching the garment, his temples throbbed, and his eyes gleamed with a sharp light. His hands were large, with thick knuckles and calloused skin, clearly the work of a master of external martial arts. He sat upright, his breathing steady, like a tiger poised to pounce.

The man sitting opposite the woman was about the same age as Li Xiuning, handsome with striking features, sharp eyebrows, and bright eyes. His demeanor was gentle yet dashing. He wore a lake-blue brocade robe embroidered with gold thread, which further accentuated his noble air. His manners were elegant and refined, and when he looked at Li Xiuning, his gaze was filled with undisguised admiration and concern. A richly decorated longsword hung at his waist; though unsheathed, it exuded a sharp edge, clearly indicating that he was not a mere playboy, but a talented young man skilled in both literature and martial arts.

Their conversation was clearly heard by Yi Huawei.

The burly man's voice was deep, tinged with disbelief: "...The Four Great Bandits and their three thousand iron cavalry were wiped out overnight? Is this news...reliable? When did Pegasus Ranch acquire such strength?"

He had clearly just received the news, and his shock was palpable.

The thin old man put down his teacup, his wise eyes filled with solemnity and contemplation: "The news came from within the ranch, so it should be true. It is said that a reclusive master from the ranch, who has been living in seclusion for many years, made a move, setting up an inescapable trap to lure the enemy into it. He meticulously planned and executed the bandit leader, 'Not a Blade of Grass,' Xiang Batian, on the battlefield! Such methods... are beyond comprehension!"

He stroked his beard: "It seems we still know too little about Pegasus Ranch."

The young man interjected, his voice gentle yet tinged with lingering fear: "Fortunately, our journey was delayed by a few days, preventing us from arriving in time. If we had been on the ranch last night, we might have been caught up in that brutal battle..."

The woman's beautiful face also showed shock, but even more so, a keen insight: "This matter is indeed astonishing. But what is even more thought-provoking is why the reclusive master of the ranch suddenly made a move? Was he forced to reveal himself in a critical moment for the ranch, or... is there another reason behind it?"

She paused, then looked at the thin old man: "Mr. Li, in your opinion, our original plan to visit the Pegasus Ranch..."

The thin old man pondered for a moment, then a glint of light flashed in his eyes:
"The plan remains unchanged! In fact, we must speed up our journey! There are three purposes for our trip to Pegasus Ranch: First, of course, is to purchase fine steeds, which is the foundation for the growth of our Li Clan's cavalry and cannot be delayed; second, to personally verify the details of this battle and understand the background of that mysterious figure, which is crucial for us to judge the future direction of the ranch and the situation in the south; third, and most importantly—to establish good relations!"

His voice was low, but every word was clear: "After this battle, the ranch's reputation has soared! The extraordinary person who made the move, regardless of their true identity, is enough to make the world take notice! At this time, the ranch is in high spirits and is optimistic about any potential or helpful person! If my Li family can express our concern in time, send congratulatory gifts, and establish contact, it will be a great help in securing the ranch's support in the future, and even... in winning over that extraordinary person! This is a golden opportunity!"

The burly man nodded in agreement: "What Master Li said is absolutely right! With such a powerful ally, the ranch's value has increased tenfold! We must be on good terms with them!"

The young man also looked at the woman: "Xiuning, Lord Li is a man of great foresight. Shall we rest for a while and then set off south today?"

A resolute glint flashed in the eyes of the woman named Xiuning, and she nodded slightly: "Alright! We'll do as Lord Li says! General Dou, please make the arrangements to replenish supplies. We'll depart in an hour, heading straight for the Pegasus Ranch!"

“Yes, Miss!” Dou Wei replied in a deep voice.

Yi Huawei overheard their entire conversation. He picked up his teacup, took a small sip, and a knowing smile flickered in his deep eyes. The Li family's reaction was indeed swift and precise. It seemed that the Pegasus Ranch was about to become even more bustling.

Although Shan Wanjing couldn't hear what was being said, judging from her master's expression and the distinguished guests at the table, especially noticing the undisguised admiration in the handsome young man's eyes as he looked at the beautiful woman, she couldn't help but feel curious and asked in a low voice:

"Master, those people... don't seem to be ordinary merchants?"

Yi Huawei put down his teacup, turned his gaze to the ever-flowing Han River outside the window, and said in a calm voice: "The Li clan of Taiyuan. The leader is Li Yuan's daughter, Li Xiuning."

Shan Wanjing's blue eyes widened slightly: "People from the Li family? What are they doing in Xiangyang? Are they also going to the Pegasus Ranch?"

"Buy horses, make connections, and observe the wind."

With a smile, Yi Huawei succinctly stated, "In the grand game of chess, another piece has been placed."

He said no more and turned his gaze to the distant river.

(End of this chapter)