Chapter 404: Killed her.

Translator: 549690339

When Qiao Jing saw Xing Ji, he was talking to Bai Yang. Qi Jiang, Qi Jun, and Ren Dong were also there.

“Ah Jing, your timing is impeccable,” Xing Ji looked up at Qiao Jing, “You’ve been leading the front for several days now. Even if you’re uninjured, you need some rest. I’m discussing with Bai Yang about letting him lead the troops out of the city for the battle tomorrow. What do you think?”

Qiao Jing nodded. “I have no objection,” he announced. He came to atone for past mistakes, but was not eager for glory. He had sparred with Bai Yang before, and while his martial arts skills were superior, Bai Yang was more than capable of contending Liang Country’s generals. Moreover, Bai Yang had openly confessed his error and expressed a desire to redeem himself by requesting to be deployed when necessary.

“I’ll go with Bai Yang,” said Ren Dong. She was the only one present who knew the full extent of the trouble Bai Yang had gotten into. Still, she did not want him to risk his life in pursuit of atonement, for there would be no future if he were to lose his life.

Qi Jun sighed internally. He yearned to fight alongside Ren Dong, but Xing Ji had affirmed his military strategy and intellect rather than his martial arts skills. With stronger warlords present, he had zero chances of being sent on risky ventures outside the city. His father would have been the first to object, and he didn’t want his possible mishap to cause trouble for everyone.

“Alright, the siblings will lead the troops out of the city tomorrow,” Xing Ji nodded. Then he noticed Qiao Jing taking out a letter from his jacket and handing it to him.

Xing Ji frowned instantly. If Su Liang had sent the letter, it should have come to him first.

Upon receiving and swiftly reading the letter, his expression became serious. He handed the letter to Qi Jun.

Qi Jun and Ren Dong read the letter together, both of their faces becoming grave.

“Nangong Lin is my and Gu Ling’s master, and also my grandfather’s disciple. He taught us all our martial arts,” Qiao Jing’s voice was icy, “And my sister, Nangong Qian, is his daughter. After he got injured on the island he escaped and disappeared. It’s been more than half a year now.”

“You’re sure that it’s Nangong Lin’s handwriting?” Xing Ji asked. He had heard of Nangong Lin from Su Liang but had never met him.

Qiao Jing nodded, “It’s his writing. My grandfather has confirmed it.”

“But…” Xing Ji looked at the letter in Qi Jun’s hands again, “Your sister, Nangong Qian, is in the Su Mansion in the capital city. She’s living with Xiaoliang and Xiaogu. How could something happen to her?”

Ren Dong instantly agreed, “Exactly! With our Master and Gu Ling there, it couldn’t be possible for Nangong Lin to intrude into the mansion and take Miss Nangong away! Moreover, there are two of the Master’s masters. One of the seniors, Cen Man, is living in the same courtyard as Miss Nangong!”

Qi Jun pondered thoughtfully, “I believe… there’s a deception in this letter.”

Qiao Jing nodded, “When my grandfather heard that my sister was taken by Nangong Lin, he was understandably anxious. However, I also think that Nangong Lin is setting a trap to capture or kill me. My sister isn’t in his possession.”

Su Liang and Gu Ling have always been cautious and meticulous in their actions. Nangong Qian’s previous conflicts with them were already history. Not only had Su Liang healed Nangong Qian’s body, but she also had been gently guiding her towards becoming a better person. Nangong Qian herself confirmed these changes in letters she sent periodically.

As per Nangong Qian’s letters, she would occasionally go out, visiting Huguo Temple or going shopping. Su Liang would arrange for Cen Man to accompany her, and if Cen Man was unavailable, he would entrust her to Elder Mu.

Despite Nangong Lin’s martial arts prowess surpassing Cen Man and Elder Mu’s, the latter two were Su Liang’s teachers. If enemies did show up, they wouldn’t rely solely on martial arts.

Before the start of the war, Qiao Jing was aware that Elder Mu and Gu Ling had collaborated to create impressive weapons. They even sent explosives and advised caution against its indiscriminate use.

In such circumstances, it was practically impossible for Nangong Lin to take Nangong Qian away from the capital city or even the Su Mansion unless Su Liang and Gu Ling were dealing with some other troubles. But as far as they were aware, no such problems had arisen.

Even so, Qiao Jing felt Nangong Lin would not dare approach them recklessly. Knowing fully well that Gu Ling had surpassed him in power and Su Liang was a poison master, he was too fond of his life and wasn’t the sort of person who’d risk himself for the sake of his daughter.

“Could it be possible,” a thought occurred to Qi Jun, “that Nangong Lin is now in cahoots with the royal family of Liang Country and is working for Situ Xie? After all, given General Qiao’s unique position, it is highly unlikely that Liang Country would let matters lie, or consider General Qiao as just another individual from Qian Country. It’s highly probable that they could have sent someone specifically to target General Qiao. Specifically, with General Qiao recently halting the attack of the Liang Country’s army and damaging their morale, their hatred for him, being the commander, would only intensify.”

Originally, Qi Jing was a prince of the Situ Imperial Family, but he betrayed it to become a citizen of Qian Country, even leading a large army to attack Liang Country. Every time Qi Jing repelled the large army of Liang Country, it was like rubbing salt in the wound of the Situ Imperial Family, whose reputation was already in shambles, and pouring fuel on the fire in the hearts of the Liang Country’s troops.

Under such circumstances, could Situ Xie bear it any longer? If Nangong Lin really colluded with Situ Xie, wouldn’t he be the perfect candidate against Qi Jing?

“It’s possible.” Qi Jing frowned, “I was thinking, since it’s a trap, to avoid complications, I would ignore it and kill Nangong Lin when he can’t resist showing up. But if he is here on Situ Xie’s order, he might know something important. Marquis, should we lay a counter trap and capture him?”

Xing Ji disagreed, “He knows your grandfather is also here, he didn’t come alone. Even if you know it’s a trap, there is a chance you might get caught if you both go. What if he uses poison? Yan Mei is still alive, she has been helping Situ Xie. Xiaoliang warned in her last letter that we must avoid contact with those from Liang Country outside the battlefield.”

The reason why Su Liang stressed this was because she speculated that the transmigrator who possessed space might be involved in the war between the two countries. It would be more than just helping bring food and fodder. For example, if she did something else to help Situ Xie, it could be very troublesome. This is also why Qiao Cong, despite having the idea, did not capture the main general of Liang Country.

There’s a mysterious character on the other side whose background they know nothing about. If the war develops normally, they can control the situation in Xuanbei City. Once an abnormal situation occurs, such as both sides starting to capture hostages, things can get out of control quickly.

Qi Jing sighed, “What Marquis said makes sense. I believe my sister is not in the hands of Nangong Lin. Even if she really gets captured, she’s not in danger. He wouldn’t harm his own daughter unreasonably. In this case, we should just avoid the trap set by Nangong Lin. If this plan fails, let’s see if he has any other strategies.”

Qi Jing told Qiao Cong about the results of his discussion with Xing Ji, and Qiao Cong had no objections. With his previous temper, he would not have remained so calm. He really wanted to meet at night and cut down Nangong Lin. However, the overall situation matters. Now, he’s not fighting alone. Su Liang has to remind him not to act rashly and must discuss with Qi Jing every time she writes a letter.

That night, outside Xuanbei City.

Nangong Lin waited until the second half of the night, but no one came for the appointment.

“No one is coming.” Yue Mei walked out from behind a big tree with her crutch, her voice hoarse. Originally, her right foot and left hand were chopped off by Gu Ling on Wangxiang Mountain. Although iron fists and iron feet were attached, they’re not useful. Especially her feet, they’d hurt a lot when she walked, so she always leaned on a crutch.

Nangong Lin’s face was cold and he faced the direction of Xuanbei City, saying nothing.

Yue Mei scoffed, “Your master and disciple are not fools. They know your daughter is in Su Liang and Gu Ling’s house and you can’t kidnap her. You also bluffed to Emperor Liang that you could help him capture Qi Jing. You boasted too much.”

Nangong Lin turned around, looking coldly at Yue Mei, “Are you mocking me?”

Yue Mei scoffed, “You’re overthinking. We have the same goal. This appearance of mine was caused by Gu Ling. I want much more than you for them to lose everything and suffer a brutal death! Emperor Liang instructed us to go find Mo Zunzhu, no matter what happens. Let’s go.”

“Who is that person actually?” asked Nangong Lin.

Yue Mei shook her head, “Put away your curiosity, it won’t do you any good. Don’t think being highly proficient in martial arts is a big deal. Mo Zunzhu’s skills are beyond your imagination. Besides, he might not appreciate your martial arts skills. He has many underlings who are more proficient than you.”

Nangong Lin’s face twisted for a moment, but he did not rebut Yue Mei’s words.

Nangong Lin and Yue Mei found an inconspicuous house in Nanping City according to Situ Xie’s instruction before dawn.

On entering, Nangong Lin silently let Yue Mei walk half a step ahead.

“Who is there?” A young man blocked their way.

Yue Mei was very polite, “We were instructed by Emperor Liang to visit Mo Zunzhu. My surname is Yue, and I’m an old acquaintance of Mo Zunzhu. This gentleman’s surname is Nangong, he is the master of Gu Ling and Qi Jing.”

“Wait here.” The young man turned and entered the room. He came out shortly, pointed at Nangong Lin, “The master asked you to come in.”

Yue Mei’s face stiffened, feeling slighted, but she dared not lose her temper. So, she sat on the cold stone bench in the courtyard, leaning her crutch against the stone table.

The moment Nangong Lin entered the door, he felt a touch of unknown trepidation brewing in his heart. He had not feared anyone for many years, but the mysterious person he was about to meet made him apprehensive because of Situ Xie’s attitude and the words Yue Mei had spoken.

In the room, a red candle was lit, it was not until he heard a hoarse voice coming from the window that Nangong Lin noticed Mo Yan. It seemed as if Mo Yan had merged with the shadows in the room, like a cold sculpture, devoid of the spirit of a living person.

“Hmm?” Mo Yan voiced out again.

Nangong Lin quickly regained his composure, his tone unconsciously taking on a note of respect, “I started teaching Gu Ling martial arts when he was eight. But I had met him before that because his mother, Situ Ning, was my good friend.”

“Sit.” Mo Yan gestured towards another seat in the room.

As Nangong Lin sat, the red candle was beside him, illuminating his face. However, from his angle, he could not see Mo Yan’s face at all. He then felt an unbeknownst sense of pressure.

“What kind of person is he?” Mo Yan asked again.

Nangong Lin was taken aback, “Gu Ling? He is a person… a man of great capabilities but indifferent to fame and fortune. He seems cold but is actually kind-hearted and values friendship and loyalty.”

These were Nangong Lin’s innermost feelings, that he unintentionally blurted out, but immediately regretted it because he was obviously praising Gu Ling. Yet, he detested Gu Ling deeply.

“What was he like as a child? Was he different from ordinary children?” Mo Yan questioned.

Nangong Lin began to feel uneasy. Before his arrival, he hadn’t anticipated that Mo Zunzhu would be so interested in Gu Ling, and wondered if him being asked to enter was also because of Gu Ling?

“Can’t remember?” Mo Yan asked.

Gathering his composure, Nangong Lin replied, “Gu Ling has been different from ordinary children since he was young. He was exceptionally cool-headed and logical. There were times when you stared into his eyes, he did not seem like a child at all. Plus, he was exceptionally intelligent, had a good understanding, and learned anything quickly.” Not certain about Mo Yan’s intentions, Nangong Lin chose to speak the truth in order to avoid getting himself into trouble. After all, many things were not only known by him.

“Did he ever suffer from any illness or severe injuries during his childhood?” Mo Yan asked again.

After thinking for a while, Nangong Lin shook his head and said, “Not that I recall. He has been very healthy since birth and is a martial arts prodigy.”

“What about Su Liang then? Considering her significant changes, what’s your opinion?” Mo Yan mentioned Su Liang again.

With a snort, Nangong Lin said, “Her martial arts were definitely taught by Gu Ling!”

“And her medical skills?” Nangong Lin asked.

Mo Yan shook his head, “Her medical skills probably weren’t taught by him. Su Liang’s grandfather was a renowned doctor, it’s normal that she knows medical skills. The Su family could have simply kept this undisclosed before the incident.”

“If I want Gu Ling to abandon everything and leave with me to another place, is that possible?” Mo Yan asked.

Nangong Lin immediately shook his head, “Impossible. He wouldn’t part with Su Liang, unless…”

“Unless what?” Mo Yan probed.

Nangong Lin’s gaze fleeting, “Unless… Su Liang dies. Only then can she be separated from Gu Ling.”

“Do you want to kill Su Liang?” Mo Yan’s voice deepened.

Nangong Lin’s heart skipped a beat. Although he still didn’t understand why Mo Yan wanted Gu Ling to leave with him, he could already confirm that Mo Yan came with Gu Ling in mind. Once he succeeded, things would naturally become a lot easier for Nangong Lin.

“That woman has indeed spoiled many of my plans,” Nangong Lin said, “If she could be eliminated, it would be excellent.”

“It turns out that Yue Mei also wants to kill her. In this case, this task will be left to both of you.” Mo Yan’s tone was commanding. “Do not harm Gu Ling, nor let him know that it has something to do with me. After the matter is accomplished, whatever you ask for can be obtained.”

Nangong Lin came out of the room, Yue Mei stood up immediately, but no one called her in.

“Let’s leave,” Nangong Lin walked toward the exit without waiting for Yue Mei.

Yue Mei frowned, picked up her crutch, and silently followed behind Nangong Lin.

It was already daylight, and the two didn’t stop until they reached a quiet forest.

“What did Mo Zunzhu say?” Yue Mei asked.

“He ordered us to kill Su Liang.” Nangong Lin said pensively. “Do you know if he has any connections with Gu Ling?”

Yue Mei shook her head, “I don’t know. However, killing Su Liang is exactly what I want to do. Gu Ling caused me to become a cripple, I would dismember Su Liang to let him feel the pain of loss. Haha! Now about my Senior Brother, he is interested in Su Liang just like he was once interested in that cheap woman, Shen Qingxue. I’ll make him regret rejecting me! Your plot failed, but I can definitely succeed with a similar plan because Su Liang knows very well that her master and Ming Ying are in my hands!”

Nangong Lin looked in the direction of Xuanbei City, “That’s good. It’s time for me to see my daughter. Let’s go.”

Xuanbei City.

Qiao Jing did not show up for the date, neither did he see Nangong Lin or receive any messages from him, but he was still on guard all the time.

However, what Qiao Jing did not know was that Nangong Lin had secretly passed through Xuanbei City that day and went to the capital city with Yue Mei.

War reports were continuously sent to the capital city. There was no sign of Mo Yan using explosives yet. However, Su Liang was worried that if Liang Country kept failing in the siege, Mo Yan’s patience might run out, he might end up lending a hand.

Therefore, Su Liang was always calculating time, hoping that Min Rou and Old Mu could arrive soon, successfully find Mo Yan, and inform him of the facts. Perhaps then, the whole situation could take a turn.