The world of film and television starts from the flow of money

"Destiny? Popular support?"

Li Gang seemed to be deep in thought, then pressed on, "Sir, what do you mean by 'obeying the Mandate of Heaven'? What does it mean to 'follow the will of the people'?"

Yi Huawei withdrew his gaze and looked at Li Gang: "The Mandate of Heaven is not something ethereal and illusory. It is the convergence of the times, the favorable location, and the harmonious unity of the people. The opportune time is the collapse of the Sui Dynasty, which is an opportunity bestowed by Heaven; the favorable location is like the mighty city of Xiangyang, which controls the throat of the world; the harmonious unity of the people..."

His gaze swept over Li Xiuning and the others, carrying a meaningful tone: "...The people's hearts are with you, the soldiers are willing to fight, and the virtuous and talented people are drawn to you; this is the foundation!"

As for public sentiment?

Yi Huawei's voice carried a hint of compassion: "The common people of the world only ask for a peaceful and prosperous life, free from worries about food and clothing. Years of war, exorbitant taxes, and plunder by powerful figures have long made life unbearable for the people, and their complaints are endless. Whoever can stop the fighting, reduce taxes and levies, and restore a bright and clear world for the people will be the one who wins the hearts of the people!"

"Every word you say is a gem!"

Li Gang slammed his hand on the table excitedly, his eyes gleaming: "The right time, the right place, and the right people—all three are indispensable! And the foundation of the right people lies in the hearts of the people! Your insightful views have enlightened me!"

He felt that Yi Huawei's words coincided with, or were even more insightful than, their Li clan's strategy of "spreading benevolent governance and winning the hearts of the people."

Li Xiuning's beautiful eyes also sparkled as she looked at Yi Huawei with admiration and respect.
"Sir, your words are truly enlightening. I, Xiuning, have learned a great deal. May I ask, sir... which hero do you favor?"

This issue is more direct and sensitive.

Yi Huawei picked up his wine glass, gently swirling the amber liquid within. His gaze fell upon the reflection of the Han River shimmering outside the window, a mysterious smile playing on his lips.

"Heroes of the world each have their own strengths. Wagang is powerful, but its foundation is weak; Jianghuai is brave and fierce, but it is content with a small corner; Hebei is mighty, but lacks strategy; Baling is a rising force, a fierce tiger of Lingnan, and has already formed a formidable force with extraordinary potential..."

He touched on the subject briefly, without explicitly stating his opinion on anyone, but he did comment on all the major powers in the world. In particular, when he mentioned "the rising force of Baling and the fierce tiger of Lingnan, which have already formed a formidable force," Li Xiuning and Li Gang both felt a chill run down their spines! This was the latest intelligence they had just gathered about the alliance between the Heavenly Dao Alliance and the Song Clan! This person was so knowledgeable!
Finally, Yi Huawei changed the subject, with a detached tone:

"However, the world is like a game of chess, and the outcome is still uncertain. Furthermore, the 'Heavenly Alliance' has emerged, with its ambition to uphold the 'Heavenly Way' and aim to reshape order, embrace all things, promote the integration of Chinese and foreign cultures, and foster the prosperity of civilization. Its leader, 'Nameless,' is even more unfathomable. Where this game of chess will ultimately end remains to be seen."

Mentioning the "Heavenly Dao Alliance" and "Nameless" stirred up a storm in the hearts of Li Xiuning, Li Gang, and the others! This person not only had a thorough understanding of the world's affairs, but also paid so much attention to the mysterious and unpredictable Heavenly Dao Alliance, even giving it such high praise! What exactly is his stance?
"Sir, you seem to be quite interested in the Heavenly Dao Alliance?" Li Xiuning asked tentatively.

Yi Huawei smiled calmly and put down his wine glass: "It's an inevitable trend, and we should pay attention to it. Like the Han River flowing on, it cannot be stopped by any one city or place. Those who follow it will prosper, and those who oppose it will perish."

He said no more, as if what he had just discussed was nothing more than a gentle breeze and flowing water.

At this moment, the restaurant waiter finally brought up the several exquisite dishes that Yi Huawei and his apprentice had ordered.

Steamed Han River silverfish, steamed assorted preserved meats, stir-fried seasonal vegetables, and a basket of crystal shrimp—though not delicacies from land or sea, they are all delicious and visually appealing, showcasing the local flavors of Xiangyang.

As the dishes were served, the heavy topic of the world's affairs seemed to fade away. Although Li Gang and the others were filled with emotion, they understood that Yi Huawei did not want to discuss it further. Taking advantage of the rare fine wine and food, the conversation shifted to local customs, traditions, and strange tales from various places.

Dou Wei clutched the jar of Six Fruit Wine like a miser guarding his treasure, yet he was generous in sharing, attentively refilling everyone's cups. He was a hearty and generous man, and after a few cups of the fine wine, he became quite talkative, recounting amusing anecdotes from his days traveling the martial world, which drew smiles from everyone.

Li Gang was erudite and witty, effortlessly recounting local anecdotes and legends. Chai Shao was gentle and refined, possessing exceptional insight. He and Li Xiuning frequently whispered to each other, their eyes meeting with tender affection. Although Li Xiuning was preoccupied with her trip to the ranch, the relaxed atmosphere and the exquisite wine she enjoyed eased some of the worries in her eyes. Her occasional smiles were as radiant as melting snow.

Yi Huawei was a man of few words, quietly savoring the dishes and occasionally raising his glass to drink with the others. His demeanor was calm and composed; though he spoke little, no one could ignore his presence. He would casually comment on the dishes or add to the anecdotes mentioned by Li Gang and Chai Shao, his remarks often concise yet to the point, prompting deep thought or admiration from Li Gang and the others.

Dan Wanjing sat obediently to the side, eating her food in small bites. Her blue eyes curiously observed the Li family members, especially the subtle feelings between Li Xiuning and Chai Shao, which she found quite interesting.

For a time, glasses clinked and laughter filled the air. The aroma of the exotic six-fruit wine wafted through the air, and the exquisite dishes were both delicious and comforting, creating a harmonious and warm atmosphere.

Li Gang, Dou Wei, and the others felt that sharing a table with this unfathomable gentleman in a green robe, even without discovering his background, was a rare opportunity to receive his guidance and drink such exquisite wine together, and they were quite pleased. Li Xiuning also felt that although they had not reached the pasture, meeting such an extraordinary person in Xiangyang and listening to his discussions was a worthwhile trip.

"The drinking has been completed."

Looking at the empty plates and cups on the table, Yi Huawei nodded slightly to the Li family members, with a carefree air of having enjoyed himself to the fullest: "Thank you all for your hospitality. My master and I will not disturb your journey any longer. Farewell."

Having said that, he stood up, his movements natural and fluid. Shan Wanjing also obediently stood up.

Li Gang and the others quickly rose to see him off. Dou Wei, clutching the jar of six-fruit wine, looked reluctant to part with it.

"Sir, you're leaving already? This wine..."

Yi Huawei laughed and said, "This wine is a gift to a brave man; it is his gift. Until we meet again."

He didn't linger any longer, and with Shan Wanjing in tow, strolled downstairs. The newly opened jar of six-fruit wine remained quietly on the table, emitting its intoxicating aroma.

Li Xiuning and the others stood by the railing on the third floor, watching the figure in the green robe, accompanied by the blue-eyed girl and leading the magnificent chestnut horse, disappear into the bustling crowd of Xiangyang City.

The streets downstairs were still bustling, but the Li family members could not find peace in their hearts for a long time.

"A universe hidden in a sleeve... Six-Fruit Immortal Wine... Insight into the trends of the world... Just who is this person?"

Chai Shao muttered to himself, his eyes filled with shock and a lingering doubt.

Li Gang stroked his beard and sighed deeply, his eyes filled with solemnity and contemplation: "Unfathomable! Unfathomable indeed! His words and demeanor are far from ordinary! Especially his evaluation of the Heavenly Dao Alliance and 'Nameless'... This person is very likely to have a close relationship with the Heavenly Dao Alliance! Perhaps even..."

He didn't finish his sentence, but the meaning was self-evident.

Li Xiuning gazed in the direction where Yi Huawei had disappeared, her eyes, as clear as autumn water, gleaming with a strange light. She said softly, "Why must we have known each other before? Your esteemed demeanor, sir, will be etched in my memory. Master Li, Uncle Dou, Young Master Chai, it is time for us to set off."

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

Yi Huawei, leading Shan Wanjing and their chestnut horse, didn't linger on the bustling streets of Xiangyang. They turned into a quiet, secluded alley, winding their way through several lanes until they finally stopped in front of an inconspicuous, tightly closed mansion. The mansion's outer walls were mottled, and the lintel was low, indistinguishable from the surrounding residences. However, when Yi Huawei tapped the door knocker three times in a specific rhythm, the seemingly heavy wooden door silently slid open a crack. Inside, it was dimly lit, and a mixture of old wood, damp dust, and a faint, strange incense scent wafted out.

The two slipped inside, and the wooden door closed silently, shutting out the outside noise. Inside was a small, dimly lit courtyard, with slippery moss growing in the cracks of the bluestone slabs. A Yin Gui Sect disciple, completely shrouded in a black cloak with only his piercing, restrained eyes visible, silently bowed and then led the two through the courtyard into the inner hall.

The inner room was even darker than the outside, illuminated only by a few flickering oil lamps. The strange incense in the air was even stronger, with a sweet and seductive scent that seemed capable of disturbing one's mind. But Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing were no ordinary people, and this scent had no effect on them.

Inside the hall, three people were already waiting. Upon seeing Yi Huawei enter, the three immediately stood up and respectfully bowed.

Song Shidao shed his aristocratic robes, donning a practical dark blue outfit and a long sword at his waist. His face remained gentle and refined, but his brows now held a seasoned composure and unwavering resolve honed by battle. He bowed and said, “Shidao greets the Alliance Leader! Five thousand elite troops have been dispersed, disguised as merchants, porters, and refugees, and have infiltrated Xiangyang City and surrounding towns in three groups, lying in wait! They are ready to assemble and strike at any time!”

Song Lu, clad in sturdy leather armor and with a water-splitting dagger at his waist, possessed eyes as sharp as an eagle's and exuded a fierce aura honed by years of experience. He clasped his hands in a deep voice and said, "Admiral Song Lu of the Navy greets the Alliance Leader! Ten thousand elite naval troops, as ordered by the Alliance Leader, have been deployed in two hundred disguised merchant ships and fishing boats, infiltrating the Han River in batches. They are now hidden in the reed marshes and tributary inlets twenty miles upstream and downstream of Xiangyang, their flags lowered and drums silenced, awaiting orders!"

Lei Shimeng wore similar standard leather armor to Song Lu, but his expression carried an undisguised restraint and awe. He also clasped his hands in a respectful bow, his voice loud yet cautious:

"Lei Shimeng greets the Alliance Leader!"

Although he felt disappointed by his demotion, after witnessing Yi Huawei's extraordinary abilities and the overwhelming power of the Heavenly Dao Alliance, his resentment had long since vanished, leaving only absolute obedience.

Yi Huawei nodded slightly, his gaze sweeping over the three men before finally settling on Song Lu: "Admiral Song, what are the naval preparations?"

A glint of light flashed in Song Lu's eyes: "Reporting to the Alliance Leader! Although the warships are disguised, all battle preparations have been completed! Crossbows are strung, oil is plentiful, grappling hooks are in place, and a large number of specially made arrowheads are also provided. With just one order from the Alliance Leader, the navy can blockade the upper and lower reaches of the Han River within half an hour, cutting off all waterways to Xiangyang. At the same time, they can launch a strong attack from the water gates or weak points to land on the shore, coordinating an attack from the inside and outside!"

"very good."

Yi Huawei turned his gaze to Song Shidao: "How is the infiltration within the city going? Have you grasped the key points?"

Song Shidao hurriedly reported, "Reporting to the Alliance Leader! All five thousand elite troops have arrived and are dispersed throughout the city. The four granaries, three armories, the city lord's mansion garrison barracks, and the residences and movements of the generals guarding the city gates are all under close surveillance by the alliance's experts and Yin Gui Sect disciples! In particular, Zhang Ping, the commander of the city lord's personal guards, Wang Hu, the commander of the west gate, and Zhao Si, the commander of the water gate, are all being watched by our men in shifts around the clock, ready to act at any time!"

"Ah."

Yi Huawei nodded in satisfaction. He walked to a simple map of Xiangyang's defenses in the center of the inner hall and pointed to several key locations:
"Once the operation begins, ten of the Yin Gui Sect's top experts, in coordination with the elite troops under Vice Commander Lei, will launch a surprise attack on the residence of Zhang Ping, the commander of the City Lord's personal guards, and capture him alive! At the same time, we will take control of his deputy and seize command of the City Lord's garrison!"

"General Song led ten skilled Song clan fighters, along with elite hidden troops, to launch a surprise attack on the city tower where Wang Hu, the garrison commander of the West Gate, was located. They captured him alive and took control of the West Gate!"

"Lei Shimeng dispatched elite water ghosts to cooperate with the infiltrators to control the water gate control room and the guard Zhao Si, ensuring that the water gate is under my control!"

"Admiral Song, you will personally oversee the operation. Once the aforementioned three locations are secured, immediately send a signal to assemble the elite troops hidden within the city and divide your forces to control the four granaries and three armories! You must paralyze the core of Xiangyang's defenses with the fastest speed and the least disturbance!"

"The operation must be swift and covert! The main objective is to capture the commander and control the key points, while avoiding large-scale conflicts and minimizing chaos and casualties within the city."

"As ordered!"

Song Shidao, Song Lu, and Lei Shimeng responded in unison, their eyes filled with a desire for victory and absolute confidence in the alliance leader's plan.

"As for Qian Duguan himself..."

Yi Huawei's lips curled into a faint smile: "I will go and meet him myself."

He turned to Shan Wanjing, who had been standing quietly by his side, and said, "Wanjing, come with me to the City Lord's Mansion."

"Yes, Master!"

Shan Wanjing perked up, her blue eyes sparkling with excitement and anticipation.

With the deployment complete, Yi Huawei lingered. He and Shan Wanjing, guided by disciples of the Yin Gui Sect, quietly left through a highly secretive back door of the stronghold.

It was nearly dusk, and the afterglow of the setting sun cast a dark golden halo over the ancient city of Xiangyang.

Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing did not ride horses; the chestnut horse, Wang, was left at the base for the time being. The two walked unhurriedly towards the most magnificent and spectacular building complex in the city center—the Xiangyang City Lord's Mansion—like ordinary pedestrians.

The city lord's mansion occupies a vast area, with high walls and deep courtyards. Huge stone lions guard the gate, making it heavily guarded. Elite disciples dressed in the blue-gray outfits of the Han River School, carrying swords and knives, vigilantly scanned passersby, exuding an inviolable aura of authority.

Yi Huawei led Shan Wanjing straight toward the heavily guarded mansion gate.

"Halt! This is the City Lord's Mansion, no unauthorized personnel allowed!"

The guard leader saw that the two were dressed plainly (Yi Huawei wore a simple blue robe, and Shan Wanjing was not dressed in a luxurious outfit), and although they had extraordinary bearing, they were unfamiliar faces. He immediately stepped forward to stop them, his hand on the hilt of his knife, and his tone was unfriendly.

Yi Huawei kept walking, without even shifting his gaze. He merely raised his eyelids slightly and glanced at the guard leader.

hum!
An invisible, vast and unfathomable will descended instantly!

The guard leader felt a deafening roar in his mind! It was as if an invisible mountain had crashed down on him! An irresistible fear and sense of submission, originating from the depths of his soul, instantly seized him! His whole body stiffened, his blood seemed to freeze, and his hand on the hilt of his sword was as if welded to the spot, unable to move even a finger! The other guards behind him were also frozen in place, their faces filled with extreme horror, frozen in place, even their breath stopped!
Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing walked calmly through the group of stone-sculpted guards as if they were passing through thin air, into the wide-open gates of the city lord's mansion, where no one dared to stop them.

Inside the mansion gates lay a spacious front courtyard. Several patrolling guards, witnessing this bizarre scene (the guards like puppets, allowing strangers to intrude), were astonished and about to draw their swords to demand answers—

Yi Huawei's steps remained steady. Wherever his gaze fell, whether it was the guards rushing up or the stewards and servants who came from afar after hearing the commotion, as long as they met his deep, star-like eyes, they would instantly freeze on the spot, their eyes empty, like puppets that had lost their souls!

He led Shan Wanjing as if strolling through his own backyard, leisurely passing through the front courtyard, corridors, and central courtyard... Wherever he went, time seemed to stand still, and everyone who tried to stop him or sound the alarm was instantly stripped of their ability to act and speak under that invisible, supreme will!

(End of this chapter)