Too many female prisoners, a special forces soldier transmigrates and marries wildly.

The rain was the best description of this encounter, and also the best cover.

As Lin Feng stealthily crept behind an earthen embankment less than fifty paces from the battlefield, using the slippery rocks and dense bushes, the fighting in the valley intensified. Of the seven "Yinshan Ghost Fiends" assassins, only four remained, their backs against a massive reclining ox-shaped rock, covered in blood, like trapped wild beasts making their final stand. Surrounded by over twenty Di Rong cavalrymen, they were at their last gasp, barely holding on thanks to sheer grit and the terrain. Three more Di Rong cavalrymen lay dead on the ground, but the assassins' losses were clearly greater.

The leader of the Di Rong cavalry, a burly man clad in half-body iron armor and wielding a scimitar, was shouting in the Di Rong language, directing his men to attack from three sides, intending to end the battle as quickly as possible. Their attention was completely drawn to the stubborn enemy before them, and gaps inevitably appeared in their formation. The scouts on both ridges frequently cast their eyes down at the fierce battle below.

It's now!

A cold glint flashed in Lin Feng's eyes, and his Iron Spine Bow instantly drew back in his hand, a specially made, three-edged armor-piercing arrow already nocked. He didn't aim at the Di Rong cavalrymen who were besieging him—that would immediately expose him and make him the target of everyone's attacks. He slightly raised the tip of his arrow, pointing it towards the rear of the battlefield, at a Di Rong cavalryman who had just taken his horse's bow from his saddle and was preparing to fire a stray arrow.

"Whoosh—!"

The arrow tore through the rain, whistling sharply, and pierced precisely into the armpit of the Di Rong archer, exposed as he drew his bow! The leather armor there was thin, and the arrow pierced through his body. The archer screamed, his bow fell to the ground, and he rolled off his horse, clutching his wound.

The sudden, unpredictable arrow brought a momentary freeze to the battlefield. The Di Rong cavalry leader turned in alarm, staring at the arrow's trajectory, and roared, "Ambush! Watch out for stray arrows!"

Almost simultaneously, from the ridges on either side came two short, muffled thuds, mostly drowned out by the wind and rain, and the sound of a body falling to the ground. Ye Qingli had made her move! Like the Grim Reaper in the rainy night, she silently dealt with the Di Rong scouts before they could even react, using her black short bow.

"Enemies on both sides!" someone in the Di Rong cavalry exclaimed, and their formation showed obvious signs of panic. Their once sure hunt had instantly turned into a perilous situation with enemies on both sides.

"Kill! Deal with these bastards first!" The Di Rong leader was both shocked and furious. He pointed his sword at the four exhausted assassins, deciding to deal with the immediate threat before dealing with the enemy in the shadows.

However, Lin Feng would not give him that chance again. After firing the first arrow, he didn't stop, his figure moving like a ghost behind the earthen embankment, firing the second and third arrows in succession! The target was no longer a single cavalryman, but the warhorse beneath them! Shoot the horse before the rider; in this narrow valley, cavalrymen who had lost their horses posed a much smaller threat.

"Thud! Thud!" Two arrows struck the chest and neck of two warhorses respectively. The horses reared up with a pained neigh, throwing their riders off their backs and causing even greater chaos.

"Over there! Behind the embankment! Charge!" The Di Rong leader finally pinpointed Lin Feng's approximate location, dispatched half of his cavalry, and roared as they charged forward. The horses' hooves pounded the mud and water with astonishing force.

Lin Feng neither dodged nor avoided the arrows. Instead, he suddenly stood up from behind the earthen embankment and unleashed a barrage of arrows from his iron-backed bow. Each arrow seemed to have eyes, aiming specifically at the faces and throats of the leading cavalrymen! At such close range and with such a rapid rate of fire, the charging Di Rong cavalrymen were caught off guard, and three more were immediately struck by arrows and fell from their horses.

"They're experts! Scatter! Encircle them!" The charging Di Rong cavalry were horrified and quickly dispersed, attempting to flank them from both sides.

Just then, the four dying "Yinshan Ghost Fiends" assassins saw a glimmer of hope! Although they didn't know who had secretly helped them, they were now facing a desperate situation and unleashed their last strength. Roaring wildly, they charged out from behind the boulder where they were hiding, no longer on the defensive, but like four sharp knives, charging back towards the flank of the Di Rong cavalry, which was somewhat weakened by their split forces! Their moves were ruthless, a completely suicidal fighting style, and they instantly felled two more people, completely disrupting the Di Rong's formation.

The Di Rong leader roared in fury. His prey, which was almost within his grasp, had not only broken free but had also formed a pincer movement with the enemy lurking in the shadows. In an instant, nearly half of his forces had been lost! He swung his sword and cut down an assassin who had pounced on him. His fierce gaze swept across the chaotic battlefield, and then he glanced at the silent mountain ridges on either side. He knew that today's outcome was hopeless.

"Retreat! Cover each other, retreat!" He made a decisive decision, issuing the order sharply in the Di Rong language. The remaining dozen or so Di Rong cavalrymen dared not linger, turning their horses around and frantically hurling arrows behind and to the sides as they retreated towards the valley entrance. They came quickly and left quickly, leaving behind only a mess of corpses, neighing warhorses, and a heavy stench of blood, before disappearing swiftly into the vast rain.

Of the four "Yinshan Ghost Fiends" assassins, only two remained, both severely wounded and swaying precariously. Supporting each other, they glanced warily at the earthen embankment where Lin Feng was hiding, then at the direction the Di Rong people had retreated. Without hesitation, they turned and staggered away into the dense forest on the other side of the valley, quickly disappearing from sight. For these people who lived on the edge, any stranger was a potential threat; survival was their top priority.

In the valley, only the sounds of wind and rain, the mournful cries of wounded warhorses, and the bloodstains gradually fading as the rain washed them away were heard.

Lin Feng slowly emerged from behind the earthen embankment, rain streaming down his sharply defined face. He glanced at the battlefield, confirming that the Di Rong people and assassins had all retreated, before gesturing towards the direction where A Yue and the others were hiding.

Ye Qingli emerged gracefully from the surrounding forest, completely untouched by rain, as if the precise and deadly sniper attack had nothing to do with her. She glanced in the direction of the retreating Di Rong cavalry and said calmly, "They're only retreating temporarily; they'll return soon with more men. We can't linger here."

Lin Feng nodded and looked at A Yue and the others.

"Take the western animal trail!" Lin Feng did not hesitate and, according to the original plan, led everyone to quickly leave the bloody valley and step into a more secluded and rugged path on the west side, which was almost completely covered by vines and bushes.

Ye Qingli silently followed along the side of the group. Her presence was minimal, but her cool, clear eyes were always watching the surrounding movements. With her there, Lin Feng felt the pressure on his shoulders lessen; at least he didn't have to worry about cold arrows or surprise attacks from the darkness.

The rain gradually subsided, and the dark clouds dispersed, revealing a greyish-white sky. They had finally emerged from the most treacherous core area of ​​Blackwater Ridge, and the road beneath their feet gradually became clearer and wider, with faint traces of human footsteps. After walking for another half a day, the view suddenly opened up ahead. A dirt road, deeply rutted by cart wheels, meandered among the mountains like a sleeping giant python, leading into the distance.

Official road! Finally on the official road! This means they have truly left those nightmarish deep mountains and are not far from the prefectural capital!

A look of relief finally appeared on everyone's tired faces.

The official road stretches northeast, and on the distant horizon, one can already see vast fields of farmland and the faint smoke rising from villages. Further away, the outline of a gray-black city wall, much larger than Linyuan County, is faintly visible in the twilight mist, and there seem to be flags fluttering on the city tower.

We've finally arrived at Qingzhou Prefecture.

"Less than thirty li away." Ye Qingli estimated the distance, her voice still calm. "There are many people and eyes on the official road. Your attire will be too conspicuous."

"We need to find a place to rest and change our clothes first," Lin Feng said thoughtfully. He looked at the fields not far from the official road, where there seemed to be a small village. "Let's go to that village and see if we can buy some clothes and hire a carriage."

The group set off again, walking along the field ridges beside the official road towards the village.

An hour later, a dilapidated mule cart carrying them left the village.

Finally, before dusk completely fell, the imposing city wall of Qingzhou Prefecture, towering three zhang high and built of massive blue stone blocks, loomed before us like a prehistoric behemoth.

The city gates were wide open, and on both sides stood soldiers with spears and armor, their expressions solemn, checking the travel permits of those entering the city and questioning any suspicious individuals.

Compared to Linyuan County, the checks here were significantly stricter, and the atmosphere was much more tense. There seemed to be more patrolling soldiers on the city wall, their sharp eyes scanning the area below.

"Things haven't been peaceful lately. I heard there are Di spies in the north, and martial law has been declared in the city," the old man driving the cart muttered.

Lin Feng felt a chill run down his spine. It seemed the Di Rong people's activities had already alerted the prefectural government. This might be a good thing, but it also meant their entry into the city would become more difficult. He glanced at Ye Qingli, who shook her head slightly, indicating that she wouldn't accompany him into the city.

"Miss Ye, farewell. Thank you for your help along the way," Lin Feng said, clasping his hands in greeting. Ye Qingli's identity was mysterious, and she clearly did not want to appear publicly in the prefectural capital.

Ye Qingli nodded, her gaze sweeping over Chen Xi before finally settling on Lin Feng's face. Her cool voice lowered, "The state is a dangerous place, and Zhou Wenyuan is no ordinary person. Be careful." With that, she vanished in a flash, disappearing into the twilight and the crowd.

Everyone nodded, took a deep breath, and suppressed the tension in their hearts.

At the entrance of the carriage shop, the guards sized them up, their gaze lingering for a moment on the unconscious Uncle Fu and several women before they demanded sternly, "Where are you from? What brings you into the city? Where are your travel permits?"

Lin Feng stepped forward, his face displaying a perfect balance of weariness and respect. He handed over a fake travel permit (given by Steward Liu) that he had prepared beforehand and which bore a faint mark of Linyuan County. He said in a low voice, "Sir, we are from Linyuan. We were ambushed by bandits on the way, and my servant was injured. We are truly desperate and have come to the prefectural government to seek refuge with a distant relative, Mr. Zhou, who works in the prefectural government. Please grant us your assistance."

The soldier took the travel permit, glanced at it, then looked at Lin Feng's calm gaze and the pitiful state of the elderly, women, and children behind him, and waved his hand: "Go in! Things haven't been peaceful in the city lately, behave yourself and don't cause trouble!"

"Thank you, sir!" Lin Feng quickly expressed his gratitude and gestured for A Yue to drive the mule cart, which slowly entered the deep city gate.

Everyone breathed a long sigh of relief. Finally, they were inside.

The scene of the prefecture that came into view was completely different from the desolate atmosphere outside the city.

The streets were wide enough for four carriages to walk side by side, paved with old but smoother bluestone slabs than the dirt roads of the county town. Shops lined both sides, many still open and brightly lit even though night had fallen. Loud voices emanated from the restaurants and teahouses, while cloth and grain shops displayed their signs. General stores, pharmacies, blacksmith shops… everything imaginable was there. The streets were bustling with people, many dressed much more elegantly than the county town's residents. Occasionally, one could see gentry in fine clothes or ladies in sedan chairs passing by. The air was thick with the scents of food, cosmetics, spices, and the uniquely languid and bustling atmosphere of the night.

This is the prefectural capital. It's a place that's far more prosperous, larger, and more complex than any county town.

According to the address written in Chen Miao's letter, the residence of "Mr. Zhou" (Zhou Wenyuan) they were looking for was in "Qingpingfang" in the east of the city, a relatively quiet residential area for officials and wealthy merchants.

Qingpingfang was much quieter, the streets were clean, and high walls lined both sides of the courtyards, their vermilion gates tightly closed, with only a few grand plaques hanging above the doorways. Following the address, they stopped in front of a house that, while not particularly ostentatious, exuded a calm and ancient atmosphere. The black lacquered gate had brass knockers, and two small stone lions stood before it. Above the gate hung a plaque with the simple characters "Zhou Residence."

It is here.

Lin Feng stepped forward and knocked on the door knocker.

A moment later, the side door opened a crack, and an old servant in his fifties, with a thin face and shrewd eyes, wearing a blue cotton robe, poked his head out. He glanced at them, his gaze sweeping over the disheveled mule cart and the group of people, and frowned slightly: "Who are you looking for?"

"Excuse me, is this the residence of Prefect Zhou Wenyuan?" Lin Feng asked politely, clasping his hands in greeting.

A glint flashed in the old servant's eyes. He scrutinized Lin Feng again, then glanced at the women and mule cart behind him. His tone softened slightly: "Indeed. You are...."

"We came from Lin Yuan, entrusted by an elder surnamed Chen, to have important business to discuss with Prefect Zhou. This is the token." Lin Feng handed over Chen Miao's letter.

The old servant took the letter, and upon seeing the sealing wax, his expression changed slightly, and his attitude immediately became much more respectful: "So it was entrusted by Mr. Chen. Please wait a moment while I inform him." With that, he took the letter and closed the side door.

The wait wasn't long, but to those outside, it felt like an eternity. Whether they could gain Zhou Wenyuan's protection, find refuge here, or even resolve future troubles depended entirely on this one move.

About the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, the side door opened again. Instead of the old servant, a middle-aged man of about forty, dressed in a dark blue casual suit, with a refined face and gentle, clear eyes, emerged. He personally greeted them, his gaze quickly sweeping over everyone, lingering for a moment on Chen Xi's face, a barely perceptible flicker of excitement and complexity in his eyes before returning to calm.

"My name is Zhou Wenyuan." The middle-aged man bowed, his tone gentle yet carrying an undeniable air of authority. "I have read Elder Chen's letter. You have all had a long journey; please come in and speak with me." He stepped aside to make way and instructed the old servant, "Zhou Fu, bring the carriage in through the side gate. Arrange for someone to help this injured old man to a guest room and settle him in properly. Go and fetch a doctor immediately. Also, prepare clean rooms for these guests and provide them with hot water and food."

"Yes, sir," the old servant Zhou Fu replied hastily.

Zhou Wenyuan personally led Lin Feng and the others into the residence. The house wasn't extremely large, but its layout was exquisite, with pavilions, waterside terraces, and winding paths leading to secluded spots, exuding elegance and scholarly atmosphere. The maids and servants, seeing Zhou Wenyuan personally leading the guests, all stood respectfully with their hands at their sides, their eyes fixed straight ahead, displaying excellent family manners.

Everyone was led to different rooms to wash up and rest. Lin Feng insisted on visiting Uncle Fu, who had been settled in a guest room, first. Seeing that a doctor was already treating him and that Zhou Wenyuan had made thoughtful arrangements, he was somewhat relieved.

After everyone had finished washing up and changed into the clean clothes prepared by the Zhou family, they were led to an elegantly furnished study. Zhou Wenyuan had already dismissed everyone else, leaving only the old servant Zhou Fu to stand guard outside the door.

Inside the study, candlelight shone brightly. Zhou Wenyuan sat in the main seat, his gaze once again falling on Chen Xi, whose face had been cleansed of grime and whose simple attire could not conceal her refined elegance and noble bearing. His eyes finally no longer concealed their excitement and emotion. He rose, walked to Chen tide, and was about to bow in respect.

"Uncle Zhou, you mustn't!" Chen tide quickly stepped aside, reaching out to support him, her voice already choked with emotion.

Zhou Wenyuan straightened up, looked at Chen tide, his eyes slightly red: "Xi'er...you've suffered so much. Is Old Master Chen...alright?"

Chen tide's tears finally fell, and she briefly recounted her experiences, especially her grandfather Chen Miao's arrangements and final instructions. As for the Golden Dragon Token and the treasure vault, she omitted them, only saying that her grandfather had sent her to seek refuge.

After listening, Zhou Wenyuan sighed deeply, expressing his concern for Chen Miao's situation, but also feeling somewhat relieved to learn that he was temporarily safe. He looked at Lin Feng and solemnly clasped his hands in thanks: "Brave Warrior Lin, I cannot express my gratitude enough. If it weren't for your selfless protection along the way, Xi'er would probably... Please accept my deepest bow!"

Lin Feng quickly returned the greeting: "Prefect Zhou, you flatter me. It was my duty. Now that Miss Chen has arrived safely, I have fulfilled my mission."

"No, this kindness will be etched in my heart," Zhou Wenyuan said solemnly. He invited Lin Feng to sit down and inquired in detail about their experiences along the way, especially the Di Rong pursuers and the "Yinshan Ghost Fiend." Hearing Lin Feng describe the fierce battle at Blackwater Ridge, he frowned and his expression became grave.

"The Di Rong people are indeed still up to their old tricks, daring to infiltrate the heart of my Qingzhou and commit atrocities! The 'Yinshan Ghost Fiends' are also involved... This matter is no small thing." Zhou Wenyuan pondered, then looked at Lin Feng, "Brave Lin, although your journey has been secretive, it's hard to guarantee you haven't left any traces. Neither the Di Rong people nor the 'Yinshan Ghost Fiends' will let this go easily. Although the prefecture is large, it has many eyes and ears. You should stay in my residence for now and not go out easily. I will send more men to guard the residence and secretly investigate the situation."

"Thank you, Prefect Zhou," Lin Feng said, adding that this was exactly what they needed right now.

"Furthermore," Zhou Wenyuan changed the subject, looking at Lin Feng, "Brother Lin, you are exceptionally skilled and courageous. I wonder what your plans are for the future? If you have nowhere to go for the time being, you might as well stay in the prefecture for a while. I have some old acquaintances in the army, and I may be able to find you a place to settle down."

This is recruitment. With Zhou Wenyuan's position as the Prefect of Qingzhou, arranging for Lin Feng to enter the state army or government system would be a piece of cake. This is undoubtedly a very good way out, especially in these chaotic times.

Lin Feng's heart stirred slightly, but he did not immediately agree. He simply said, "Thank you for your kind offer, Your Excellency. However, my injuries have not yet healed, and my family also needs to be settled. We can discuss this matter later."

"Very well." Zhou Wenyuan nodded, no longer insisting, and instructed Zhou Fu to arrange a sumptuous banquet to welcome everyone back.

That night, the study in the Zhou residence was brightly lit. Zhou Wenyuan and Chen tide talked until late, learning more about Chen Miao and discussing future arrangements. Meanwhile, Lin Feng and the others, in their comfortable and safe rooms, finally shed the fatigue and tension of the past few days and fell into a deep sleep. Shi Xiu, Liu Yun, A Yue, and Shi Cao'er shared a room. Chen Xi was alone in her room, stroking the cold medicine box in her arms, gazing at the lights of the prefectural government outside the window, her mind filled with countless thoughts.