Su Yan had initially thought that Qingshui Camp was just another military outpost along the Great Wall. But upon arrival, he realized it was, in fact, a sprawling and impressive city.
This city served as both a strategic military fortification and a bustling hub of commerce. Its northern wall was the Great Wall itself, towering with imposing grandeur. The gate tower bore the inscription: “Key to the Northern Gate.” Beyond the Great Wall lay the desolate Hetao Desert, and beyond that, the Hanhai region occupied by the Tatars.
The Great Wall’s strength needed no further explanation, and the walls on the east, west, and south sides were equally formidable, standing over nine meters high, reinforced with brick and stone both inside and out—truly impregnable. The corner towers reached nearly thirty meters, exuding an imposing presence.
Qingshui Camp was laid out in a perfect square, with a central avenue running straight from north to south.
The western section housed the military garrison, under the jurisdiction of the Canjiang Governing Chief of Lingzhou. The Ministry of War had also established a council chamber here, serving as a command center for border affairs along the eastern section of the Great Wall whenever frontier conflicts arose.
The eastern section was home to the horse market. On trading days, it bustled with activity—herds of cattle and sheep, the neighing of horses, and the braying of donkeys filling the air.
Tribes from the northern steppe would bring horses, cattle, camels, sheep, and furs through a heavily guarded side gate into the market, while merchants from the Central Plains traded tea, salt, grain, textiles, and ironware, each side obtaining what they needed.
Since its establishment, Qingshui Camp had been a major hub for commerce within and beyond the Great Wall, shaded by verdant trees and thriving with trade. However, in recent years, repeated Tatar incursions had heightened tensions between the Central Plains and the northern tribes, sowing fear and anxiety among the people and causing the horse market to decline significantly.
Having lost the documents and seals that proved his identity, Su Yan had no choice but to rely on illegal means. Using a second-hand travel permit that Jinghong Zhui had purchased from a broker at an exorbitant price, he managed to pass the gate guards’ inspection and enter Qingshui Camp.
Aletan, on the other hand, faced a much stricter interrogation due to his identity as a north desert tribesman, preventing him from entering for the time being.
“You go ahead,” Aletan said to Su Yan. “The next trading day isn’t for three days. Until then, I’ll be keeping my horses at the pasture outside the east gate by the Qingshui River. When the time comes, I’ll take them to the market. If you need anything, you can find me outside the east gate.”
He paused before adding, “Even if you don’t need anything, you can still come. I’ll treat you to roasted whole lamb.”
Su Yan politely agreed, and they parted ways at the city gate.
Jinghong Zhui turned to him and said, “Does my lord wish to eat roasted lamb? I’ll buy the meat and seasonings right away and roast it for you.”
“You really think I’m just here for the food?” Su Yan chuckled. “I agreed to Aletan’s invitation to maintain a good relationship—it’s useful.”
He then told Jinghong Zhui about the faded tattoos on the Tatar cavalry’s bodies.
Only then did Jinghong Zhui realize why Su Yan had touched Aletan’s tattoo back when they had sought shelter from the rain in the ruined temple. What had seemed like an impulsive act had actually been deliberate. He felt deeply ashamed for his earlier misgivings and silent criticisms, vowing never to doubt his lord’s decisions again—not even in the slightest.
—Lord Su was a man of integrity and wisdom. Every word and action followed a clear plan. Even if he did something seemingly absurd, there was always a hidden reason behind it.
—And even if, by some rare chance, it truly was absurd, it must be because someone forced his hand. The real fools were those who pressured him.
—Whatever the case, Lord Su could never be wrong. If there was a mistake, it was always someone else’s fault.
After thoroughly convincing (brainwashing) himself, Jinghong Zhui refocused on the issue at hand. “My lord suspects the true identity of those cavalrymen who attacked us? But so much time has passed, and their bodies have already been buried—it may be difficult to investigate.”
Su Yan nodded. “Indeed. I recall that when they attacked, they shouted several things in their language, but I don’t understand the northern dialect. There might have been clues in what they said.”
Jinghong Zhui replied, “I don’t speak their language either. But I remember Chu Yuan mentioning that one of the imperial guards traveling with us, a man named Huang Liji, can understand it. Whether he’s still alive and when we’ll see him again, though, is uncertain.”
Su Yan sighed. “Let’s hope everyone is safe. For now, we should find an inn to settle in and start gathering information on Chu Yuan’s whereabouts.”
“Understood. So… does my lord still want roasted lamb?”
“…Yes. And get plenty of cumin powder. Also, chive flower sauce.”
—
After days of exhausting travel, it was a rare luxury to finally enjoy a hot bath and a warm, satisfying meal.
The two settled in the largest inn in Qingshui Camp, the “White Cloud Inn.” Since there were no connected suites available, Jinghong Zhui initially planned to sleep on the floor, but Su Yan insisted on booking two single rooms so he could rest properly without needing to keep watch.
“This Qingshui Camp is surrounded by deep trenches and high walls, with stationed troops to keep it secure. You can relax,” Su Yan said.
Jinghong Zhui wanted to say that it wasn’t about feeling safe or not; rather, it was…
What was it? Was it his insatiable desire to monopolize the presence of his master day and night? Or was it the fact that, standing at the edge of his self-control, even the faintest trace of Su Yan’s scent would send his blood racing and his body burning with an unbearable craving? The bittersweet torment of this yearning was something he almost willingly endured.
But Jinghong Zhui couldn’t say it aloud. So he simply nodded in silence.
That night, Su Yan enjoyed a deep and peaceful sleep, not waking until the sun was high in the sky. He stretched lazily before getting up, deciding to spend the day exploring Qingshui Camp and learning about the local defenses and livelihood.
After finishing breakfast at a market stall, the two strolled leisurely around. Su Yan stopped to examine every curious object he came across, picking them up for closer inspection but ultimately putting them back, shaking his head to indicate he wasn’t buying.
“Don’t worry about money, Master,” Jinghong Zhui said. “We can always earn it back.”
Su Yan chuckled. “I’m not doubting your ability to make money, but this isn’t a sightseeing trip. There’s no point in buying souvenirs we can’t carry. Besides, you’re the one who needs something—let’s get you a new sword.”
Jinghong Zhui’s sword, Wuming, had been lost when they tumbled down a steep slope, likely washed away by floodwaters. While it wasn’t an extraordinary blade, it was custom-made to suit his fighting style and had tasted the blood of many enemies, making it a reliable and deadly weapon.
In Dingbian City, pressed for time, Jinghong Zhui had purchased a cheap mass-produced sword for three taels of silver—a mediocre replacement at best.
Su Yan had noticed how ill-suited the new weapon was and suggested they find a better one. Qingshui Camp’s marketplace was bustling with traders from the Central Plains, the northern desert, and even further abroad, offering a wide array of weapons to choose from.
Jinghong Zhui’s attention was soon captured by a long sword with a unique design.
Unlike the typical swords of the Central Plains, this blade was slender and tapered to a fine point. Its surface was adorned with intricate, swirling patterns reminiscent of starry skies—a natural result of the high-quality steel used in its forging. The contrast between the dark and light tones was striking, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship.
Running his fingers lightly over the blade, Jinghong Zhui noted the raised patterns felt like countless microscopic serrations, enhancing its cutting edge.
The sword’s hilt, guard, and scabbard were equally exceptional. The guard flared outward like the wings of an eagle, exuding elegance and strength. The hilt, made of polished black rhino horn, featured spiral grooves for a secure grip, accented with fine silver inlays. The leather scabbard, though understated in its simplicity, hinted at extraordinary quality.
“Gentlemen, you’ve got a keen eye!” the vendor said, beaming. “This sword is crafted from the rarest Wuzi steel. Look at these natural Damascus patterns—absolutely genuine. You’ve heard of Wuzi steel, right? Renowned for its unparalleled sharpness and durability. This blade won’t chip or break in battle…” To demonstrate, the vendor tossed a piece of silk into the air.
The blade sliced through it effortlessly as it floated down, showcasing its razor-sharp edge. Even Jinghong Zhui had to admit that Wuming couldn’t achieve such precision without the aid of internal energy.
Su Yan tugged at Jinghong Zhui’s sleeve, signaling him to take a few steps aside. Lowering his voice, he said, “The shopkeeper isn’t scamming us. This is Damascus steel—well, nowadays they call it Wuzi steel. In terms of material, it’s at the pinnacle of cold weapons. And the design definitely looks like it comes from the Middle East. I strongly recommend you buy it.”
Jinghong Zhui had taken a liking to the sword at first sight, so he walked back and asked, “How much for this sword?”
“Three hundred taels. No bargaining.”
“Three hundred taels of silver? That’s too expensive!”
The vendor grinned. “Sir, I meant three hundred taels of gold.”
Jinghong Zhui turned on his heel and walked away. The vendor called after him, “Wait, wait! Since you’re a fellow man from the Central Plains, I’ll give you a 10% discount! A special price of two hundred seventy taels! That’s the lowest I can go! This is the only one in the entire market—brought all the way from the Western lands! A rare treasure! If you regret it later and come back, it’ll be long gone!”
Su Yan whispered, “Buy it!”
Jinghong Zhui scoffed, “What sword could possibly be worth three hundred taels of gold? Do I look like a fat sheep just waiting to be fleeced? Besides, for a swordsman, the quality of the sword isn’t what matters—it’s the heart of the sword. If your sword heart is firm and pure, even a three-tael blade can become an unbeatable weapon.”
Su Yan rolled his eyes. “Oh, come on! Spare me that old dragon-style pretentious nonsense. Sure, if someone else used that Damascus sword, they might not necessarily beat you with your run-of-the-mill blade. But if you used that sword, you’d definitely defeat your current self wielding a cheap one. Ever heard of upgrading from a musket to a cannon?”
“…I get it, but I don’t have the money. Even if I sold myself, I wouldn’t be worth three hundred taels of gold.”
“Nonsense! My Ah Zhui is a priceless treasure. No amount of gold could buy you.”
Jinghong Zhui’s ears suddenly turned red. The blush spread from the rims of his ears to his cheeks in a faint flush. He gazed at Su Yan, his eyes dark and burning with intensity.
Su Yan felt a little self-conscious under his stare, but since he had spoken from the heart, there was no reason to feel guilty. He straightened up and righteously challenged, “What? You have an objection? Too bad if you do—it’s my decision!”
Jinghong Zhui smiled slightly. “Yes, it’s always my lord’s decision. I’ll obey in all things.”
Su Yan was nearly overwhelmed by how well he played along. A loyal, considerate, and worry-free guard like this? I could keep a dozen! For a lifetime!
Well—keeping him for a lifetime was fine. But a dozen? No, his Ah Zhui was one of a kind.
He grasped Jinghong Zhui’s arm and declared with great conviction, “What’s three hundred taels of gold—fifteen hundred taels of silver? This lord can afford it! Just wait, I’ll definitely buy this sword for you.”
It was easy to say, but Lord Su wasn’t a corrupt official—where would he get such a large sum of money? Jinghong Zhui didn’t want to undermine his confidence, and since he had resolved never to doubt him again, he simply nodded and said, “Then I’ll thank you in advance, my lord.”
Su Yan strode back to the vendor, exuding an aura of authority, and rattled off rapidly, “Two hundred and fifty, take it or leave it. Honestly, this sword has been sitting here for so long the cloth wrapping it is already frayed. Clearly, no one’s been buying it. We’re the most sincere buyers you’ll meet. If you let us go, you might never sell it!”
The vendor, bombarded by his nonstop tirade and struck by some uncomfortable truths, finally caved. “Fine, fine, two hundred and fifty it is. But this is rock bottom—don’t even think about haggling further!”
Su Yan grinned. “Two hundred and fifty sounds unlucky. Let’s call it three hundred to make it a nice round number.”
The vendor froze. “Huh?”
“The extra fifty taels is for a ten-day reservation. In two days, the horse market begins and runs for eight days. During these ten days, you mustn’t sell this sword to anyone else—though chances are you wouldn’t sell it anyway. Times are tough with the border unrest; people would rather stock up on grain than splurge on luxuries. So just hold onto it for ten days, and I’ll return with three hundred taels of gold to buy it. Think about it—you’re earning an extra fifty taels for just waiting. Quite a deal, isn’t it?”
The vendor, bewildered but convinced, agreed. “All right, ten days it is. But on the tenth day at the hour of You, if you don’t show up, I’ll sell it to someone else.”
“Deal!” Su Yan nodded firmly.
Returning to Jinghong Zhui, he announced, “Settled. Within ten days, I need to come up with three hundred taels of gold. Now tell me, what’s the quickest way to make money?”
Killing. Jinghong Zhui silently thought. For someone like that b*stard Commander, killing him might fetch five thousand taels of silver. I could even offer a twenty-percent discount.
But such a bloody suggestion was unthinkable to voice aloud, so instead, he said, “Easy wealth is rarely clean. My lord, please consider this carefully.”
Su Yan chuckled. “Got it. No gambling, no drugs, no shady business. Satisfied? …Wait, gambling…”
He tapped his chin thoughtfully, muttering, “If I can retrieve the imperial edict, I could orchestrate a sure-win, no-risk gambling game where I act as the banker, and every official under the Shaanxi Directorate comes to bet against me.”
Jinghong Zhui sensed there was more to his words but refrained from prying. When the lord wanted to elaborate, he would naturally do so.
The two continued wandering until dusk before returning to their inn.
At the entrance stood several furtive north desert men, glancing around suspiciously. The more Su Yan looked at them, the more familiar they seemed. Were they Aletan’s companions… or subordinates?
Sure enough, the men’s eyes lit up when they spotted Su Yan, and one of them shouted something into the inn’s main hall. Moments later, Aletan emerged, greeting Su Yan with hearty enthusiasm, “I’m lucky today. Found you at the very first inn I tried.”
Su Yan blinked. “Aletan, you were looking for me?”
Aletan grinned. “To invite you to roasted whole lamb.”
Su Yan had just eaten roasted lamb last night. His appetite was decent, but his capacity wasn’t large. After gorging himself on ribs and a leg bone, he had felt uncomfortably stuffed and slightly traumatized. All day, he had only dared to eat light porridge and vegetables. Hearing the words “roasted whole lamb” now made him feel queasy. With a strained smile, he replied, “My stomach isn’t doing too well today. Another time, perhaps.”
Aletan frowned. “You don’t trust my cooking skills?”
Your cooking might be impeccable, but roast lamb is still roast lamb, all greasy and rich! Su Yan hedged, “I couldn’t possibly keep making you treat me. You invited me for drinks last time. This time, it’s my turn to return the favor. Let me treat you to some mugwort noodles—light and good for digestion.”
Aletan laughed heartily and reached out to grab Su Yan’s arm in a natural gesture.
Su Yan guessed it might be a cultural norm among the Oirat people and let it slide. He didn’t notice Jinghong Zhui clenching his teeth silently behind him. Instead, he only felt like a towering figure of nearly two meters was hauling along his comparatively petite frame of 1.74 meters, making them look like… a child being led by an adult. No! He was a steadfast pine beside a mighty iron tower, standing tall and proud.
Height didn’t matter. What mattered was a man’s ambition and resolve, right, Ah Zhui?
The two men soon realized they couldn’t match strides.
Aletan tilted his head and glanced at Su Yan. Suddenly, an impulse struck him—he wanted to lift Su Yan up and place him on his shoulders, or maybe let him sit in the crook of his arm. This young man was so light, barely a few taels of flesh on him—carrying him would be effortless.
But he knew that Central Plains people valued propriety, and he worried that such an action might offend Su Yan. So, he resisted the urge and instead slowed his pace to match his companion’s.
After a hundred steps, Su Yan was slightly out of breath. He pulled his arm back and waved a hand. “I can’t keep up. Let’s just walk separately. The noodle shop is at the next corner, turn right. You go ahead—Ah Zui and I will catch up soon.”
Jinghong Zhui stepped forward, elbowing his way past the Oirat men following behind Aletan, making them stumble slightly. Ignoring their silent glares, he supported Su Yan. “My lord, your health is delicate. It’s best to rest for a moment.” Then he turned to Aletan with a cool, indifferent tone. “Suit yourself.”
Aletan scratched at a small scar on his brow and stopped to wait for Su Yan.
Su Yan quickly caught his breath, and something dawned on him. He looked at Aletan and asked, “You didn’t come looking for me just to treat me to a meal, did you? Is there something you want to discuss with me?”
Aletan was slightly surprised and silently praised Su Yan’s sharpness. He answered honestly, “Yes, there’s something I’d like your help with.”
And so, as Su Yan slurped his mugwort noodles in the noodle shop, he listened to Aletan recount his encounter with an absurdly troublesome horse requisition officer.
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