The First Sage of Military Strategists

"Han Yi, what is the situation at the border?" Emperor Yu suddenly asked.

"Your Majesty need not worry. General Meng Chong commands 300,000 troops and guards the strategic pass, forming a solid barrier for our Great Yu. Although the Holy Desert Empire claims to have a million troops, this is largely an exaggeration. As long as we are fully prepared, it will not be difficult to destroy them!" Han Yi's voice was loud and clear, his eyes filled with coldness, without the slightest emotional fluctuation.

"With your words, I feel extremely at ease!" Emperor Yu lowered his eyelids, feeling drowsy.

"Your Majesty, I have heard that the Holy Desert Empire's royal court stores the blood of an evil god, which can help others prolong their lives. I was just thinking of taking action against them, but I didn't expect them to come to me on their own initiative. This is the perfect opportunity to defeat them in one fell swoop and seize their treasure," Han Yi said loudly.

"Ahem, how are the preparations for the martial arts examination going?" Emperor Yu asked.

"Within two months, announce to the world and summon heroes to the capital. Our Great Yu has the most powerful people in the world. Many of these people are scattered outside, not used by the court, or even hostile. But now, at this critical juncture, I believe we should put aside our past grievances, gather all our strength, resolve the crisis of the Holy Desert Empire first, and then discuss other matters," Han Yi said in a deep voice.

"Do as you wish. As long as these people are willing to fight for the court, past grievances will be set aside for now," Emperor Yu said in a deep voice. He paused, then asked, "What major events have occurred in the world during this period?"

"A martial arts prodigy named Han Qing has emerged from Shu. He has achieved the status of a half-saint after three years of training. His talent is unparalleled. Unfortunately, he has colluded with the demon race and is a traitor. If it weren't for the critical situation at the border, I would have already taken action to kill him!" Han Yi's eyes flashed with cold light. He concealed Han Qing's true identity. In his eyes, this was a disgrace to the Han family and a family shame that should not be publicized.

Emperor Yu did not respond, his hand supporting his chin and his eyelids lowered, indicating that this matter was not a big deal to him.

Han Yi continued with the next matter.

"Xiang Ying, the bandit leader of Chu, has colluded with the Mohists and his power is immense. He has already occupied the entire Chu region. I personally went there, but was blocked by Mohist masters and was unable to kill this bandit! However, this person's foundation is shallow. Once the border crisis is resolved, I will personally lead people into Chu, and this bandit will be no threat!" Han Yi said loudly again.

"One last thing: Jing Shou, the leader of the Black Sparrow Alliance, failed in his attempt to break through the Heavenly Gate and has now vanished into thin air. The entire Black Sparrow Alliance is in a state of extreme turmoil, which is the perfect opportunity to take action and perhaps even recruit a large group of top experts!" Han Yi continued.

"The Black Sparrow Alliance?" Emperor Yu raised his head slightly and said slowly, "No matter what method we use, we must destroy the Black Sparrow Alliance!"

That assassination attempt nearly cost him his life, and ever since then, the Black Sparrow Alliance has been an inescapable thorn in his side.

"Your subject obeys!" Han Yi bowed.

"Go down, I'm tired!" Emperor Yu waved his hand.

Han Yi said no more, turned around and slowly left the palace.

Three days later, Han Yi, in the name of Emperor Yu, announced to the world that a martial arts examination would be held in the capital, regardless of age, background, or origin, only based on strength.

A lengthy announcement, several thousand words long, was first circulated in the capital and quickly spread to major cities across the country.

In an instant, all the major forces in the world, as well as the martial arts masters who had been hiding their identities, were mobilized.

Such a great war will inevitably bring about humanitarian change. If one can participate in it and act in accordance with the trend, one may be able to ride the wave and gain immense benefits.

Even if they cannot break through to sainthood, they still have the opportunity to gain various benefits and elevate their strength and influence to a new level.

One month later.

Kyoto.

Zhengyang Street is one of the most bustling long streets in the capital, connecting the outer city and the palace city.

At this moment, Han Qingmai was walking down this street, where the crowds were bustling and jostling each other, creating a lively atmosphere.

He was dressed in a light blue jade brocade robe, with Yan Qiuling and Zhou Xiaoru by his side.

All three of them used secret methods to change their appearance, making them inconspicuous in a crowd.

Han Qing surveyed the surrounding scenery. There were many buildings on both sides, and restaurants, brothels, and teahouses were bustling with customers coming and going.

There were various shops along the road, selling writing brushes, ink, paper, and inkstones; pastries and cakes; weapons and bows...

The pedestrians on the street were a diverse group, including wealthy young men who rode horses and sat in sedan chairs, followed by hundreds of servants, causing passersby to give way.

A monk, holding prayer beads, walked along the street with his head bowed, chanting sutras.

There were also many people from other countries, dressed in strange clothes. For example, the person with blue eyes and a high nose was from the Holy Desert Empire, while the person with curly hair and brown skin was from the Shennong Kingdom.

"Kyoto is indeed extremely prosperous, even Hengshan City cannot compare!" Han Qing exclaimed.

“Yes, back when the academy was still there, Zhengyang Street was even more bustling than it is now.” Zhou Xiaoru waved his fan, a look of reminiscence on his face.

Han Qing turned around and smiled lightly: "Mr. Zhou, don't be sad, the academy will eventually be rebuilt!"

“What you say is absolutely right, young master.” Zhou Xiaoru nodded.

If someone else said that, he would definitely think they were lying.

But if Han Qing were to say it, he would feel immense anticipation.

"Husband, where are we going now?" Yan Qiuling asked from the side.

"Uncle Qi has already arrived in the capital ahead of us and is staying at Tianhu Villa in the north of the city. Let's go find him!" Han Qing said.

"it is good!"

Before long, the three of them passed through the crowded streets, turned left and right in the city, and soon arrived at Tianhu Manor. Then, led by an old man, they met Qi Wufeng in a pavilion in the manor.

"Han Qing, how is it? What do you think of the scenery in Kyoto?" Uncle Qi asked.

"The city is extremely prosperous, with crowds thronging the streets. It truly deserves to be called the number one city in the world," Han Qing commented.

“You’re right. With the martial arts examination starting, countless masters from all over the world will come to the capital to participate. The three of you should also be careful and not act in a high-profile manner!” Qi Wufeng said.

"Uncle Qi, I know what I'm doing!" Han Qing said.

He had just made his way around and had already encountered more than a dozen martial arts grandmasters, and even a martial saint.

This kind of thing would be very unusual elsewhere, but in Kyoto, it's quite normal.

"Yes, the martial arts examination will begin in ten days at the royal hunting grounds. You only need to demonstrate your martial saint-level combat prowess, and the court will arrange a corresponding position for you. You don't need to worry about anything else," Qi Wufeng said.

"Great, with Uncle Qi overseeing everything, I feel quite at ease!" Han Qing said with a smile.

...

Time flies.

Ten days later.

The martial arts examination began with great fanfare.

All the masters displayed their skills. Han Qing unleashed his true martial arts intent in front of the commander of the Eight Imperial Guards of the capital, shocking everyone present and earning him the official title of General Yangwu.

The title of General Yangwu is nominal; he holds a position but does not command troops, though he may accompany the army on campaigns.

All martial saints will be granted the position of general, so many generals will emerge in an instant after this martial arts examination.

However, the Martial Saint's personal combat strength had reached the pinnacle in the eyes of ordinary people, and he was not particularly concerned about power.

Han Qing felt the same way; all he wanted was the right to openly and legitimately join the army in the conquest of the Holy Desert Empire. With this title, he would be considered to have chosen a side, and if the war ultimately ended in victory for the Great Yu, then Han Qing and his companions would be seen as having acted in accordance with the trend.

Even without imperial rewards, they will receive divine rewards, resulting in a surge in strength.

After the military examination, the imperial court began to mobilize troops from all directions, and the entire Dayu was filled with a tense and solemn atmosphere.

Outside the imperial court, various powerful forces were also preparing for this great battle.

Twenty miles south of the capital, there is a mountain villa called Qiuyue Villa, located on the top of Qiuyue Mountain, with beautiful scenery.

In a maple forest atop the mountain, Xiang Ying sat imposingly on a large rock, gazing at the bustling capital city not far away.

"My lord, the four of us have successfully passed the military examination and have been granted official positions by the imperial court. Our next step is to go to Shazhou to join the army in the campaign!"

The four men knelt on the ground, and one of them, a martial artist with a mustache, cupped his hands and said loudly.

Xiang Ying turned around, toying with a short knife in his hand, and laughed: "Get up. The Holy Desert Empire is full of experts. I will also participate in this battle. I will try my best to recruit more experts and strengthen our forces."

However, I will not be traveling with you. You may proceed first; I have important matters to attend to!

"Yes, sir!" the four replied in unison, bowed, and withdrew.

Xiang Ying turned around, his gaze lingering on the capital. Sarina stepped forward, took his arm, and asked with a smile, "Husband, what are you thinking about?"

Xiang Ying sneered: "It's such a pity that the capital is so prosperous and is controlled by that half-dead waste, Emperor Yu. Before long, I will be sitting on the golden dragon throne in the center of the palace, looking down on the mountains and rivers."

“My husband is exceptionally talented and has unparalleled luck. This golden dragon throne should rightfully belong to you.” Sarina said with admiration.

Xiang Ying stopped sneer, reached out and pulled Sarina into his arms, rubbing her up and down with his hands. Sarina trembled slightly, her dazed eyes fixed on Xiang Ying.

Xiang Ying played with the two soft mounds of flesh on Sarina's chest for a while, then released her and said in a deep voice, "Let's put the war with the Holy Desert Empire aside for now. I need to go to Tongzhou soon to subdue the experts of the Black Sparrow Alliance. Sarina, I will leave a group of experts for you. You stay at Qiuyue Manor and do one thing for me."

“Please give me your orders, my husband,” Sarina said with a smile.

"Bring a generous gift to pay respects to the Grand Master of Fate of the Yin-Yang Sect and ask him to perform a divination to see what the Eight Directions Puppet is and who currently possesses it," Xiang Ying said coldly.

"Don't worry, my husband, I will definitely catch that thief and take back the Eight Directions Puppet!" Sarina's eyes flashed with anger.

She also knew that someone had snatched the Eight Directions Puppet from Xiang Ying some time ago, and she wished she could grind that person to dust.

Xiang Ying shook his head: "Even if you find him, don't act rashly. That thief is a saint and not easy to deal with. Just keep an eye on him and wait for me to come back before you make your move."

A sage is extremely difficult to deal with; either you don't make a move, or you annihilate him completely!

“My husband is absolutely right!” Sarina’s eyes were full of admiration.

After a moment's thought, Xiang Ying reached out and patted a red jade gourd tied to his waist, revealing a banana leaf fan that shimmered with gold and silver light in his palm.

Sarina glanced at the gourd, then looked away.

This item is a storage magic treasure that can also be used to attack enemies. It is called the Crimson Fire Gourd and was obtained from the Mo family.

The Mohist school was indeed rich in resources, with a constant stream of treasures.

“Now the capital is full of experts, hidden talents and crouching tigers. Even the emperor has to keep a low profile and dare not make a move.”

“I asked you to find someone, but countless eyes are also watching us. This magic weapon is called the Sun and Moon Tide Fan. When you wave it, you can stir up the sun and moon tides. It can be used to kill enemies or to hide yourself. Take it. It is one of the top magic weapons of the Yin-Yang Dao. With this treasure protecting you, there are not many people in this capital who can kill you,” Xiang Ying said.

"Thank you, my husband!" Sarina said with a smile.

"You can freely command these four masters: Yuan Qingfeng and Yuan Qiushui, two half-saints of swordsmanship, and Xiang Yuefeng and Xiang Yunru, two martial saints!" Xiang Ying added.

"Rest assured, my husband, in a few days, two great experts from my Sayun Kingdom will also come to the capital to assist us. One is my brother, Prince Sayun. He is a disciple of the Great Vajra Temple. He has been cultivating in seclusion in the temple for ten years and has only recently emerged from seclusion. He has already achieved the status of a Martial Saint!"

"And there's another one, Yue Jinbiao, the Great Sage of Deception. He gained immense benefits from my Sayun Kingdom, and even became sworn brothers with my father. He's also extremely powerful," Sarina said.

“Yue Jinbiao? I’ve heard that he is extremely skilled at disguise, capable of countless transformations, and also possesses superb escape techniques. With his assistance, I can finally rest assured.” Xiang Ying nodded.

“My lord, with me in the capital, you can go to Tongzhou without worry!” Sarina said.

"I'm going to meet those Black Sparrow Alliance people right now." Xiang Ying suddenly took flight, and with a whoosh, he transformed into a streak of light, heading straight for Tongzhou.

...

Tianhu Mountain Villa.

In the attic, in a study.

Han Qing sat in a chair, looking through the window at the emerald green lake, which was named Tianhu (Heavenly Lake).

Beside him, Fang Xiaoru held a brush and wrote on a snow-white sheet of Xuan paper. With swift, flowing strokes, he produced large, square, and vigorous characters that leaped off the page.

Han Qing glanced at it and smiled, "Good calligraphy, Mr. Zhou. Your calligraphy exudes a spirit of high morale and indomitable will."

Zhou Xiaoru put down his brush and shook his head: "Young master, my calligraphy is nothing special, far inferior to that of my wife. My wife is a renowned calligrapher, widely praised and highly respected in the capital's literary circles!"

Han Qing nodded slightly, sighing inwardly. It was such a pity that his mother, such a beautiful and talented woman, had died in this way.

As they were talking, accompanied by the sound of footsteps, Qi Wufeng entered the study.

"Han Qing, I have found the information you requested. Xiang Ying and the others have indeed arrived in the capital and are currently at Qiuyue Manor, about 20 miles outside the city."

"Good timing! I'll go meet him right now." Han Qing's eyes gleamed with confidence.

On that day, he chose to avoid Tianyue Peak due to a deficiency of qi and blood.

But now that his strength has reached its peak, he has decided to capture and kill Xiang Ying, seize his treasure, and recruit his subordinates. In this way, his own combat power will surely be greatly enhanced.

"Han Qing, there are many powerful figures in the capital. If you want to make a move, you must do it quickly. If things are not going well, retreat immediately and do not linger!" Qi Wufeng said.

"Uncle Qi, I dare to make a move because I am extremely confident. Although there are many experts in the capital, if I want to leave, no one can stop me!" Han Qing said with a smile.

Qi Wufeng said no more. Han Qing's strength had now grown to a point where he could no longer fathom its depth.

“My husband, I’ll go with you,” Yan Qiuling said.

"Qiu Ling, this battle is quite dangerous. I'd better go alone," Han Qing said.

"What? My husband dislikes me? It's been a while since I've done anything, and I was just thinking of killing a few people to liven things up," Yan Qiuling said with a smile.

She was a daughter of the demon race, with a cold and ruthless personality, and only when she was with Han Qing would she show her little womanly side.

Han Qing did not stop her. He knew Yan Qiuling's personality; she was decisive and had strong opinions.

"Mr. Zhou, why don't you come along? We'll go together and see just how strong Xiang Ying really is," Han Qing said with a smile. (End of Chapter)