Ahhh, where am I? This is the desolate continent, a world teeming with demons and countless races ! And here I am in the Great Yan Dynasty, where border war rages on, taxes are heavy, and corvée labor is cruel. The original owner was a common farmer's son in Qingxi Village, a family of ordinary people. Two years ago, the family couldn't pay their taxes, and the original owner was conscripted to serve in the army by the lake. At home, there are elderly and frail parents, a married elder sister , and a young younger sister. Two thousand miles away from home, hahaha! In this era of rampant demons and plagues , the original owner longed day and night, hoping only to survive the military service , return home alive, and protect his family. How did he end up in this chaotic world of demons, a borderland where life is precarious, a cannon fodder with no cultivation, no backing , and even injured... In this mountain of corpses and sea of ​​blood, in my current state, I fear I wouldn't last even an incense stick's time. Am I to perish on the battlefield so soon after arriving? This is a detection that the host's life is in critical condition , meeting the binding conditions. Daily power boost activated. Unique effect: Permanent 1% increase in strength daily , no upper limit, no cooldown, no side effects. The daily permanent boost won't be refunded. In other words, as long as I live, I can become infinitely stronger ! I not only want to live , but I also want to live for my family. I want to live, I want to become stronger , I want to climb up , get a military rank, wield privileges , and protect my family ! Die, you Great Yan scum ! Energy boost activated! Although it's only a 1% increase , insignificant , it's crucial in this desperate situation ! Ah! Fight! Ah! I have no strength left ; I can only be at their mercy. Am I just waiting to die? Here comes our reinforcements ! So many people , retreat! Retreat quickly! We've won! We've won! I can't give up! I must stand up! There's still someone alive there ! Quickly, take him back to the camp! No! No! I can still be saved! You're really lucky to have woken up from such severe injuries. If you wait even a day longer, they'll throw you into the wild to become a feast for those beasts! No! Please , please don't throw me away! This is completely inhuman! In this situation, the only way to survive is through strength and military merit . The higher the rank —sergeant, centurion, battalion commander, general— the richer the benefits and the greater the privileges . Once I reach a high position, I can exempt my family from taxes , allocate troops to guard villages, and free my parents and sisters from hunger, cold, and fear. My strength has increased to 1.1 times , but the difference between me and an ordinary person isn't significant; it will take some time. I hope war doesn't break out. All personnel, assemble! All volunteer soldiers, laborers, and combat soldiers, immediately proceed to the drill ground. Those who disobey will be punished according to military law and executed on the spot. I know you are all resentful; you were originally recruited. The barbarians, who were not considered regular soldiers, received no money, food, or special privileges. However, the rules have changed for this great war. Anyone who kills a barbarian in this battle will be awarded military merit, food, and medicine ; anyone who kills three barbarians will be exceptionally enrolled in the regular army, becoming a formal soldier of the Great Yan. Once enlisted, they will receive a monthly salary of silver , be issued fine armor and weapons, be freed from their status as lowly people, and be spared from arbitrary beatings and oppression by officials. They will be allowed to live in military camps and receive rations and meat, no longer suffering from hunger. Their families will also be exempt from taxes and corvée labor, and will not be bullied by local gentry or bandits. They will be promoted to squad leader, platoon leader, or centurion. There are ways to achieve anything: stability, food , protection of family, freedom from being a lowly commoner, and no longer at the mercy of others. Then go kill , fight, and exchange your blood for a better future. Even regular soldiers rarely manage to kill three barbarians. If someone could, it would prove their battlefield prowess , encouraging soldiers to fight to the death while also selecting elite warriors capable of fighting alongside them—a win-win situation. That 's their plan , but it's currently the only way out. As long as one becomes a regular soldier, there will be a salary, military status , and military protection. Protecting your family is as easy as a single document; fearing death will only hasten your demise. Pick up your weapons , defend the camp, slay barbarians, earn military merit, receive a salary, and enjoy military power. Either fight your way to the top and fight for a chance to rise above others, or be cowardly and wait to die, turning into withered bones in the wilderness to feed demons and beasts. Everyone, rush to the city walls immediately to defend ! The barbarians are coming; prepare for a desperate battle! Ahhh! Anyone who dares to retreat will be killed on the spot! Charge! Slaughter these Great Yan Clan members! My daily 1% strength increase has already made my physique surpass these ordinary alien races , far exceeding what I achieved yesterday. Kill three barbarians, join the regular army, receive a salary, and be exempt from family labor . Fire arrows! Fire arrows ! "Ahhh , Xuan Cang, kill 300 and you'll be a regular soldier, receiving a salary and exempt from family corvée labor ! First one, let's kill him ! Second one, trying to escape ? Hey, third one, good lad, you've killed 3 barbarians in a row! Ruthless and decisive, you 've got some skills! Kill 3 people , I'm qualified to become a regular soldier of the Great Yan! Not good, the cultivators are being mobilized! Quick, get out of the way! Escape ! Cultivators , don't be so arrogant! Look, those are our cultivators ! They have extremely high status, countless people dream of becoming cultivators. This not only requires talent but also a huge investment of money, not something ordinary people can enjoy. You must make yourself invincible to survive in this chaotic world and protect everything you want to protect! Great! The barbarians have retreated! Hahaha, we've won! We've survived! You killed three barbarians by yourself! Your Excellency, it 's true! In the army, there are no false promises . Once a promise is made, it will never be broken! Li Xuan Cang, the righteous soldier of Lu Gong, has killed three barbarians in this battle. His military merit is outstanding . Immediately remove him from civilian status and register him in the regular border army of the Great Yan. From today onwards, Li Xuan Cang will enjoy all the benefits of a regular soldier. He will receive a fixed salary, silver, rice, and rations every month." Meat supplies will be provided, standard iron armor and refined war guns will be issued, and priority will be given to receiving healing ointments and herbal remedies. Wounds will be treated by a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner. You will be exempt from all forced labor and hard service. Lord Xie, there is also a most important provision: your household registration, clan, hometown, and relatives will be exempt from taxes and forced labor for ten years, and will not be subject to local levies or exploitation by gentry and powerful families. If you encounter small groups of bandits or low-level demons causing trouble, you can seek help and protection from the nearest military camp. It was worth fighting this bloody battle and risking your life. It was absolutely worth it. From now on , my family, Li Xuancang's family, will no longer have to pay taxes or perform forced labor. The village will have the protection of the military. Ordinary bandits and low-level demons will no longer dare to easily provoke the regular army. Clans are just the starting point. Corporals, squad leaders, and hundred men. The higher the rank of battalion commander, the greater the privileges and the wider the protection. I will climb step by step until I can completely protect my family from any suffering in this chaotic world. Thank you, sir. Your physique is far superior to that of ordinary people. You are decisive in battle and have the makings of a soldier. Kill the enemy well and accumulate military merits. You will have the opportunity for promotion in the future. These are your belongings. Before, we were all the same, suffering cannon fodder , eating coarse food , being beaten and scolded, and fearing death together. I never thought that today, in just one battle, everything would be different. A set of finely polished iron scale armor is enough to withstand the slashing of swords and the tearing of claws. A standard-issue war gun made entirely of refined iron pillars with a gleaming blade. A small jar of military wound-healing ointment. A full amount of fine rice ration coupons. Once you enter the enemy ranks, things are different. Hey ha ha hey ha hmph, after becoming a warrior, the treatment is worlds apart. Every meal is fine rice, sometimes meat , and a monthly stipend of one or two taels of silver. Listen carefully, even an egg on the dinner table can become an immortal. They need to use missionary books to bring their elixir back to the mortal world. Ten days have passed, and my strength, speed, senses, soul, power, and endurance have all increased without any blind spots . Ah, I 've met you, sir . You're good. Old Du, I didn't expect you to know warriors. I only spent some time with Lord Li in the alien camp, so I can't really say I know him. He's the Lord Li who killed three barbarians and became a warrior, right? Recently, some units were attacked at night. The King's camp commander ordered night patrols as well. Everyone, be on your guard! Be careful ! Be careful ! Something's wrong! It's demonic energy! Be careful! It's a demon hound! Young Master, hurry! The demon hound is at the Body Tempering Realm! Demons are several times more ferocious than ordinary wild beasts. Only cultivators can deal with it. Our defensive formation ... Damn it ! Oh no! Something's wrong! Quick, follow me! I didn't expect my strength to have increased so much, yet the gap between me and the demon hound is still so huge . Since I'm no match for it, the only option is to flee. No, I can't outrun it! If I don't reach the military camp, it will catch up and kill me. If I fall, I'll die! I can't fall ! Ah! I actually survived! You...you're awake! Did you save me? It was me and my older brother who carried you back. You've been unconscious for three days. Thank you ! No need for thanks. Speaking of which, my brother... Brother, I must thank you. You're incredibly resilient; you survived such severe injuries. My survival is inseparable from the daily strength boost. If I hadn't been unconscious, which wouldn't affect the daily boost, I would have died long ago . Eat up! This is something only you can eat because Lord Zhao personally authorized it. What kind of meat is this ? It feels like my body gains strength with every bite. This is demon beast meat , the demon dog meat you killed three days ago. It's extremely rare and very beneficial to your injuries. If Lord Zhao hadn't authorized it, you wouldn't have been able to eat it either. Demons feed on humans, and humans can also feed on demons , especially demon beasts. Their flesh and blood contain enormous energy and abundant blood essence, which is very beneficial to humans. It's a great tonic, I feel like I've come back to life. Brother , I fainted, what happened after that? After you fainted, Lord Zhao sent us brothers to bring you back. Then a great battle broke out with the demon hound. Your squad was completely wiped out , no one survived . So many people , all of them died! Alas, this cannibalistic world is like this. Lord Zhao values ​​you highly. Get well soon, he will definitely entrust you with important responsibilities. Li Xuancang, Lord Zhao invites you. Only three days have passed, and Li Xuancang's injuries have already recovered to about 70-80%. This physical foundation is truly rare. You are Li Xuancang's subordinate. Li Xuancang greets you, sir. Three days ago, in the battle, you fought the demon alone. " Your courage and fighting prowess are extraordinary ; you truly deserve to be called a fine son of our Great Yan Border Army. Your subordinates are merely fulfilling their duty as soldiers , guarding the camp and slaying the enemy —it is only right. In chaotic times , make way, make way! Master Qian, please grant us some more time! The two taels of silver we borrowed from you back then were to survive the famine and avoid starvation. This year, we have scrimped and saved , repaying what we could, but we simply cannot raise the five taels of silver with the compounding interest ! Ahhhhh ! Since we have no money to repay, then we will take a person to pay off the debt! Take this little girl away and sell her to a wealthy family in the city as a maid to pay off this debt ! Ahhhhh! Father and Mother , don't let go of my daughter! Alas, another wealthy family has been ruined because of money. The Li family..." The only son was taken away to serve in the army two years ago and there has been no news since. He may have died outside long ago. The family has no pillar of support and can only be bullied by others . Hahaha , stop! In broad daylight, you forcibly abduct a woman and bully the innocent. Who gave you the audacity ? Sir, this is a private matter between me and the Li family. They owe me money and haven't paid it back. I'm taking people to pay off the debt. It's only right and proper. In this Great Yan Dynasty, under the law, how can you act so recklessly? Besides, do you know who this family is? They are just a bunch of lowly people. What kind of background do they have? I am a constable under the command of the Qingyuan County Magistrate. Today, I have come to Qingxi Village to deliver the county government's military order. Li Xuancang, the son of the Li family, was conscripted to guard the border two years ago. Now, he is fighting bloody battles on the frontier, killing barbarians. He has been officially registered in the regular army of the Great Yan Dynasty and become a registered soldier of the court. Your Majesty , oh, General Li, please forgive me , I was blind and did not recognize your greatness. I was confused . Brother Li and Sister-in-law Li, I was bewitched. I don't want this debt anymore. You fool, let go of Miss Li now! Li Zhanbing guards the border and protects the peace of the frontier. His family is protected by the court. If you dare to come and harass, oppress, or bully him again, you will be punished for treason and your entire family will be executed. I will never dare to do it again. Even if you gave me a hundred lives, I would never dare to step into the Li family again. Li Xuancang has become a soldier of the court. That means he receives a salary from the court and has military status. Even local gentry and officials have to give him some respect. Back then, everyone thought this kid wouldn't survive. I never expected him to bring glory to his ancestors. Congratulations, Uncle Li and Aunt Li! Yuancang will be the pillar of our village from now on. Uncle Li and Aunt Li, get up! From this day forward, the entire Li family will be exempt from all taxes and corvée labor for ten years. If anyone dares to bully or cause trouble for the Li family again, the government will protect them. Anyone who dares to act recklessly will be severely punished. Thank you, sir! Thank you, county magistrate ! Thank you, imperial court! We must hurry back to the county office to report . If the Li family ever encounters any difficulties, please come to the county office to find me. Little brother, you must be well. We await your safe return. You wretched girl, I told you to stay home and do chores, but you ran off to your parents' house to be lazy. You can't even give birth to a son, yet you have the nerve to run around everywhere. Mother is right. Throw the child aside and feed the pigs or sweep the yard. You good- for-nothing brat, all you do is cause trouble ! My younger brother, Li Xuancang, is now slaying barbarians and fighting demons on the border . He has been enlisted in the regular army by the court and is now a soldier of the Great Yan Army. The county magistrate sent someone to our house to announce the good news. From now on, the Li family will be exempt from all taxes and corvée labor and will receive full protection from the government ! You're telling the truth , not lying to us. Every word you said is true . The county magistrate said it himself, and everyone in the village can testify. Oh, Xiuer, why didn't you tell us about this great news sooner? Come home with your mother. It's windy outside, don't get cold, my dear granddaughter . Xiuer, are you tired? From now on... I'll do all the housework. Your brother is the pride of our whole family! With your brother around , our family can finally hold our heads high! Brother , I'm back! I 'm starving! Quickly tell Li Xiu to cook for me! Shut up, you brat! What nonsense are you spouting? Kneel down! How dare you talk to your sister-in-law like that? You're getting more and more rude! Brother, have you gone mad? You actually scolded me for her sake! From now on, you're not allowed to order your sister-in-law around at home anymore. You'll do all the housework yourself. Your sister-in-law, from now on, just enjoy your life. If you dare let her suffer even the slightest grievance, I'll be the first to forgive you! Now that you have a younger brother to rely on, everything will be different. Reaching the Body Tempering Realm means you've truly entered the ranks of cultivators. A single punch can deliver hundreds of pounds of force , and you could easily kill a dozen mortals with your bare hands. In my current state, I can rival a cultivator in the early stages of the Body Tempering Realm. After Body Tempering, there's also Bone Breaking, Blood Condensation, and罡气 (罡气 is a type of internal energy cultivation technique). Camp Commander Wang Tianshan is already a Bone Breaking Realm expert. General Zhao Changlin is in the late stages of the Body Tempering Realm. The camp's military order is for you to immediately lead your five soldiers deep into the outer mountains of the border country for routine patrols , clearing out scattered demons, and guarding against barbarians and the traces of Taihao. We will enter the mountains for patrols . My duty is to be vigilant about the surroundings and kill any barbarians I encounter on the spot. If I run into a first-tier demon , I will obey my orders. This forest isn't peaceful. In previous years, patrol teams often mysteriously disappeared, mostly dragged away and devoured by demonic beasts. Low-tier demonic beasts are just sharp-clawed and slightly stronger ; as long as we're careful, we can handle them . The daily 1% power accumulation allows my physical body to steadily improve ; I can easily handle low-level demonic beasts . But be careful! It's a Blackthorn Demon Wolf — thick-skinned, with venomous fangs, several times more ferocious than a demonic hound. It's a Blackthorn Demon Wolf! We're doomed! This thing... "The squad can't stop us at all, we should just run away. Corporal, if you hadn't ignored our advice and kept going deeper, we wouldn't be in such a panic. How can we outrun a demon wolf in the mountains ? If you don't want to die, fight it! The chieftain is right , now only a head-on battle offers a glimmer of hope! Ahhh... this... this... this... the valiant commander's strength is actually this high! He sent a demon wolf, stronger than a demon hound, flying with a single spear thrust ! Has the valiant commander broken through recently? Has he become a cultivator? Valiant commander, be careful ! Fortunately, I'm transforming every day, not just in strength , but in all aspects. My speed is even better than the demon wolf's ! Ahhhh! Fortunately, my physical body has become much stronger recently. The wounds look gruesome, but they haven't damaged the bones. I still have the strength to fight. Corporal, if you fall, we'll all die here. Even for our own sake, we can't retreat! Kill ! He can't hold on any longer! Everyone, hold on! If we can kill a demon, it will be a great achievement and we'll get a generous reward ! Hurry up! The smell of blood will attract other demons. Take this wolf demon's corpse and get out of here quickly! What's that ? A Black-spine Demon Wolf! Those are frequently attacked in the Chaotic Stone Valley!" This patrol squad that attacked the army's demon wolves actually hunted down an adult demon wolf! How is that possible ? Everyone run! Make way! Blackthorn demon wolves are beasts that have been entrenched in the Chaotic Stone Valley for years. In the past, it would take several ten-man squads to hunt them down. You, a mere squad leader, managed to kill one . It was just luck. You killed a low-level demon wolf. Your reward for the Moon Viewing Ceremony is 20 taels of silver, one dose of high-quality rice, three doses of Body Tempering Soup, and three boxes of Flesh-Strengthening Ointment. Everyone contributed a lot in this battle. These 10 taels of silver, one dose of Body Tempering Soup, and one box of Flesh-Strengthening Ointment will be split equally among you. In this chaotic world of demons, healing herbs are extremely precious. "Thank you, Commander. I don't need these tonics and ointments to toughen my body, but they can be used to speed up my recovery. Ahh ! This isn't our newly famous Commander who rose to fame overnight. He just got lucky , picked up a few kills, killed an old wolf, and rose so fast , even receiving a body-severing medicine. You're really lucky! Zhou Mang, five years of border defense, early stage of Body Tempering, relying on his veteran status, has always been arrogant and domineering. Military merits are earned through fighting, rewards are earned through strength, and have nothing to do with you. We are both Commanders. I have been on the border for five years, shedding countless blood , yet I have steadily advanced. You, a cannon fodder for two years, rose to the top in one step. What makes you think you can be my equal? ​​I think your meager strength is not worthy of being a Commander. Whether I am worthy or not is not for you to decide. If you are not convinced , you can go and ask Zhao Baijiang. He's sharp-tongued. Let me test if your bones are as hard as your mouth. Today, I will teach you a lesson on behalf of the camp, so that you know that a new recruit sergeant should know the rules. Sergeant, be careful ! How is this possible? I have broken through to the Body Tempering Realm for many years, only one step away from the middle stage. Why am I as weak as a child in front of you? What? Zhou Mang is actually no match for you?" Am I seeing things? How could this be ? Hey, this is a military camp. I can only teach Zhou Meng a lesson, not seriously injure him, otherwise I'll be punished by my superiors . I'll kill you! Be careful! He dares to disregard military discipline and fight recklessly with a knife in public ! Lord Zhao is here! Zhou Mang, you are a squad leader who has been stationed on the border for many years. You know that military discipline is strict, yet you dare to openly draw your knife and fight back in the training ground. Who gave you the audacity? Lord Zhao, I know I was wrong. I lost my temper and reason. The military camp is a place of killing and war. Military discipline is paramount. Li Xuancang was promoted to squad leader based on his strength and merits . I personally promoted him. Are you dissatisfied? You were jealous and provoked him in public first. After being defeated, you fought recklessly with a knife, violating military law. You usually rely on your seniority to bully new soldiers and steal military merits. I have already heard about this. Today, you have gone even further and have no regard for military law. "What use are you, sir? Spare my life! I will never dare to do it again! I beg you, sir, have mercy! Considering your years of service on the frontier and your hard work , I will spare you from the death penalty this time . Your severe punishment is twenty lashes and a three-month salary deduction. If you violate military discipline again, you will be executed without mercy! I accept the punishment. You are quite good ; I have not failed to promote you. From now on, focus on training and accumulating military merits. As long as you are brave, kill the enemy, and guard the border , I will certainly not treat you unfairly! I will remember your teachings, sir. From now on, anyone who dares to openly fight or violate military discipline will suffer the same fate as Zhou Mang. From now on, no one will dare to easily provoke me! Hurry up, all of you! These are civilians who have come to serve in the army . Two years ago, I was like these civilians, forcibly taken away because I could not pay my taxes. My parents, elder sister, and younger sister should have a better year. I have been away from home for more than two years; I don't know when I will be able to go home . " "Battle! Enemy attack! Massive enemy attack! The barbarian army is coming with a large number of demon soldiers! Quickly, meet them in battle! Follow me! So many demon soldiers! We're finished! These are city-level demon soldiers , we can't hold them off! Damn it! The barbarians and demons have joined forces ! The barbarians want to massacre the camp , the demons want to eat people! Only by fighting to the death can we survive! If you don't want to die, fight bravely! We have no way out! Once we are defeated, everyone will die ! Slaughter them all! Smash the barbarian borders ! Fire arrows ! No! No! Come here ! Help me! Someone help me! Run! Block them! Don't let them break in! Kill! Kill! Kill! Be careful ! This demon soldier is at the mid-stage of the Body Tempering Realm! Li Xuancang is no match for him , but now we can only rely on him! Li Xuancang, block that demon soldier! Don't let him break into the camp ! Yes, sir! Foolish! Seeking your own death! Hmph! Like an egg hitting a rock ! Hahaha! Li Xuancang, let's see if you die now! Hey, I'm not as good as the demon soldiers ! Only..." " Strike first and gain the upper hand! Hahaha, so good! Li Xuancang can actually hold off a demon soldier in the mid-stage of the Body Tempering Realm! Li Xuancang defeated the enemy quickly! How could this be bad? Am I afraid of you? My body needs to transform every day. This demon soldier is no match for me. Hmph! Is this even human? That's a demon soldier! Someone actually fought against him bare-handed ! Kill ! Ugh ! Fortunately, I gain 1% strength every day. Now my physique is too strong. The poison gas can't affect me . Retreat ! Of the five in the squad, only Zhou Xing survived. The others were all reduced to ashes. Xuancang, well done, sir. You flatter me. I only did my best. Very good. I will never forget your merit. With the merit you made in this battle, I have a chance to become a tenth-rank commander. I will follow your orders, sir. Ten days after the battle, I will lead my squad to patrol the mountains." My battle merits have been steadily rising, from guarding the pass and slaying barbarians to slaughtering demons. My daily strength increase of 1% is relentless. Ordinary early-stage Body Tempering Realm cultivators are no match for me! Ah, it's the county constable! Why is he at the Li family's house? Could it be that the Li family's son is dead? A constable coming to report the death must mean something has happened . Let's go check ! Constable, is this Uncle Li? Congratulations! What's the joy? Uncle Li, Brother Li, you've fought bravely on the border, achieving great merit! You're now a squad leader ! Li Xuancang, Squad Leader Li, you've rendered meritorious service on the border! He was promoted to corporal in a special way for slaying barbarian demons, and a special allowance of 10 taels of silver was sent to him to help with household expenses. Furthermore, military orders decreed that the Li family would be exempt from corvée labor and taxes for life, and would be protected by the imperial military register. 10 taels of silver would be enough for us to live comfortably for two or three years, without having to eat wild vegetables and endure hunger. Father, we no longer have to fear being conscripted for hard labor, nor the bullying of bandits and demons. How could this be? The Li family boy had actually become a corporal! This was already an official position! The Li family had produced a remarkable figure, destined for greatness! Even if the Li family boy died on the battlefield, the Li family would have the imperial court as a support. My son had rendered meritorious service on the border , becoming a corporal and even sending money home! Our Li family had produced someone who could earn military merit! Brother Li, you've raised a fine son! Li Wuchang is truly remarkable. The border is so dangerous , yet he managed to become an official and send back so much silver. Who in the surrounding villages will dare to bully the Li family now? Yes, so what if he's a squad leader ? The border is so chaotic , the barbarians are ferocious, and demons eat people . Every battle he fights is a life-or-death struggle. I haven't seen my son for over two years . Yes , alas, military merit is earned with one's life. The higher he climbs, the fiercer the battles, and the greater the danger. We'd rather he be safe than risk his life for this silver. Son, your mother doesn't want silver or fame , she only asks that you return safely and peacefully. This Li Xuancang is truly a talent; he rose from a common soldier to a squad leader in just over a month. With exceptional combat prowess and skillful command, his squads have achieved remarkable feats. Your words, sir, are absolutely correct. Li Xuancang is exceptionally brave and disciplined, his achievements in slaying barbarians and demons far exceeding the promotion criteria. In my opinion, he should be directly promoted to Tenth Commander. We will launch a surprise attack on the barbarian supply route in three days. Li Xuancang will accompany us. If he performs well , he will be promoted to Tenth Commander. Your consideration is thorough; I admire your wisdom. Greetings, sir. Please sit. Thank you for summoning me . I have something to inform you. In three days, I will personally lead a team to intercept the barbarian grain transport convoy. You will accompany me. If you perform well, I guarantee you will become a Tenth Commander . I will obey your orders . The canyon here is narrow and long, with steep cliffs on both sides. The terrain is treacherous and easy to ambush. Scouts report that a barbarian grain transport convoy will pass through this valley within half an hour. "All troops, stand at attention! Hear my command! " The surroundings are too quiet; even the chirping of insects and the roars of beasts have vanished. Something's wrong. We can't tell Zhao Changlin yet ; it's just a suspicion , no evidence. The arrow is on the bowstring , we have to fire. If I voice my suspicion, it might shake morale. A good kill could lead to an ambush. We came to ambush and kill , but instead we've fallen into the barbarians' trap. The barbarians already know our plan; they deliberately released false information to lure us into the valley for a decisive battle. Break through! Charge! Kill! Zhao Changlin has walked right into our trap! Today is your death day ! All the barbarians' attention is on Zhao Changlin. Their goal is to kill the enemy , but my goal is... No! Stop him! Don't let him near the supplies!" Block him ! Open the way ! Everyone, attack together and kill him ! You 're asking for death! What are you doing? Quick, put out the fire! Good opportunity! Everyone, break through! Don't worry about the others ! Kill Zhao Changling! Ahhhhh ! Damn it ! Am I going to die here? Uhhhh ! Lord Zhao is asking for death! This is the power of the late-stage Body Tempering Realm ! What?! Lord Zhao, run! Ahhhhh! Lord, run! This place is not safe to stay. Thank you! Lord Zhao is injured! Go quickly and summon the army doctor! What happened? Why is General Zhao so badly injured? How are the others? Report back, sir! We were ambushed by barbarians! Lord Zhao was surrounded by three barbarian generals, which is why he was seriously injured. The others broke through on their own. I don't know how they are now. Your injuries aren't light either, go and get treatment first. This man risked his life to save Zhao Changlin; he 's truly loyal. What happened? Why were you ambushed ? How is Li Xuancang now, sir? Don't worry, his injuries are lighter than yours; he's fine. He burned the barbarians' grain and risked his life to rescue Zhao Changling . This man is truly not to be underestimated. Didn't you see Li Wuzhang, like a god descending to earth, charging through the barbarian army as if it were empty, single -handedly breaking through the barbarian defenses and successfully burning their grain ? Hahaha! Li Wuzhang has made such a great contribution; he may very well be promoted to tenth rank again. Li Wuzhang's promotion speed is astonishing! Li Wuzhang's merits are evident to all . The promotion of Li Xuancang to the rank of Tenth Commander is a matter of course and we are completely convinced. The order is hereby issued: Li Xuancang is promoted to Tenth Commander , commanding ten border soldiers and enjoying all the benefits of a Tenth Commander. This is the order from Lord Wang. Li, the former Corporal, has been promoted to Tenth Commander. Li Xuancang has repeatedly distinguished himself in battle while guarding the border , displaying exceptional bravery. Therefore, he is hereby promoted to Tenth Commander. We hope that you will henceforth be diligent in your duties, bravely fight the enemy, and protect the border without fail. Your subordinates will obey and will certainly not fail your expectations. The Tenth Commander's monthly salary will be doubled, and he will receive a fixed monthly allowance of high-grade body-strengthening medicine and bone-strengthening ointment. He can command ten soldiers in two units. He can move into a spacious, independent barracks with a dedicated storage room. He can access the middle-level armory of the military camp and exchange for superior weapons and armor. As mayor, he does not need to perform the kneeling ceremony when meeting superiors. Not only will my family be protected , but my entire clan will also benefit. Thank you, sir. I have met my commander. From now on, we will all work together to guard the border, slay barbarians, and destroy demons. Those who commit wrongdoing will be punished. As long as we fight bravely, I will strive to earn military merits and resources for everyone. I will obey your orders, commander . Go on patrol! From being trampled on like ants to becoming a warrior captain and now a tenth-rank commander, I have escaped the fate of cannon fodder in a short time. But this is far from enough . I am determined to reach higher realms, higher ranks, and greater power. This is a messenger from the border. What has happened ? An urgent order from the border, the Xuanyang County military order, has arrived at the Hu border. A garrison commander receives the order : " I hereby order the entire army to assemble immediately at the drill ground. There must be no mistakes. After numerous battles, the Hu flank's forces have been severely weakened. This urgent order from the county government is certainly not good news. The entire army obeys! By order of the Xuanyang County military order, the barbarians have launched a major invasion of our Great Yan border. Several passes on the front lines have fallen one after another . The enemy's main force has outflanked and is directly attacking the Ji border defense line. The Hu flank is isolated and has no natural defenses. If they continue to hold their position, they will be surrounded and annihilated." What?! What are we going to do? We've been abandoned ! We're all going to die here! Mayor Li, what should we do ? The military order requires the garrison at the lakeside post station to immediately abandon their post, burn any uncarryable provisions and weapons, and retreat lightly to Cangyun Ridge, a hundred miles away, to regroup with the main force of the border defense army and jointly resist the barbarian army. The court hasn't abandoned us! We still have a chance to survive! Execute the order immediately and prepare to retreat. The wounded will go first, the elite will cover the rear, and the camp will be burned. Finally, supplies will be delivered. Half an hour later, the entire army will set off for Cangyun Ridge. Anyone who dares to disobey orders and deserts will be executed on the spot ! You think you can leave so easily? Chase after them! The barbarians are catching up! The monsters have a keen sense of smell and can pinpoint the army's retreat route by scent. Our retreat is impossible to hide from them; they can even predict the direction and intercept us in advance! All troops, accelerate! Maintain formation! Righteous Clan Heroes, cover the rear ! Why are we being made to cover the rear? We're being sent to our deaths! I'm not doing this! Brothers, the court doesn't treat us like human beings ! Why should we die for them ?! Oh! Immediately form formation and engage! Those who disobey will be killed without mercy! Full speed ahead ! Kill! Oh! Ignore these barbarians ! Charge straight at the main force of the Great Yan army! Zhao Changlin, Feng Long, immediately lead your men to cover the rear ! Wang Tianshan, this means sacrifice! Zhao Changlin and Feng Long... "Obey my orders, my men! Follow me! We are outnumbered and outmatched by the barbarians. Even if 200 of us fight to the death , we cannot stop them. Staying behind to cover their retreat is certain death. You are all soldiers registered by the court. If you dare disobey orders, not only will you die, but your families will be implicated. Fight the barbarians to the death! Killing one is worthwhile, killing two is a huge bonus! Leave half of you to eliminate them. The rest of you, follow me! Make sure to capture the entire army by the lake! Hold on, everyone! We still have a chance to escape alive. As soon as Zhao Changlin dies, the Great Yan army will collapse instantly ! Ah! I can't kill Xuan Cang properly! I'll hold off those two late-stage Body Tempering Realm cultivators ! You hold them off! The others, yes, yes! If you hold them off, there's hope for survival. If you can't, you'll die! Kill him! Arrogant and overconfident! Kill him! Chop him into mincemeat ! You bastard, die! Ah! You deserve to die ! Kill him! Yes! Yes! Attack together! He's already seriously injured and about to die ! How is this possible? He's seriously injured , how can he still have such strength? He's maintained his peak condition from beginning to end! This is impossible! Half an hour has passed! Everyone..." Break through quickly! Lord Zhao, hurry ! Brother Wang , you all hurry ! Brother Li, take care! Xuan Cang, hurry! You and I will join forces to fight our way out and escape into the depths of Black Wind Ridge. Use the terrain to escape ! Kill him! Protect the flanks! I'll break through the front! Hey! Hey ! Hey! Head towards Black Wind Ridge! Charge! This side is where demonic beasts roam! Let's go that way ! First, use this to stop the bleeding and stabilize the injury to prevent it from worsening. The barbarians definitely won't give up easily ; they might still be searching the outskirts of the mountains. We can't stay long; we must return to Cangyun Ridge as soon as possible to rejoin the main force. The lakeside has completely fallen; our remaining forces... With only a handful of soldiers left , our only chance of survival is to return to Cangyun Ridge. I must live and return home; I must rejoin the army as soon as possible , continue accumulating merits, grow stronger, and advance in rank. I cannot be trapped and die in these deep mountains. Black Wind Ridge has complex terrain. If we follow the mountain range southeast, we can bypass the main barbarian force's search area and quietly reach Cangyun Ridge. The mountain roads are difficult to traverse , and there are demons lurking around. We are badly injured and must proceed with extreme caution. There is a sinister aura unique to demons in the air . My lord, be careful; there are demons nearby ! My lord, be careful ! Ahhh! Yeah! Uhh ! Hey, die ! Yay! As expected, demon blood can restore some strength. Don't worry about me; you go quickly, my lord. I'll carry you away. Be careful; there may be barbarian scouts outside the camp. We cannot be careless. Hmm, it seems they have already set their sights on Cangyun Ridge. The main force has sent out scouts in advance to block all outer passages. The surveillance team was monitoring the main camp's movements. Any stragglers returning to camp would be intercepted and killed immediately. Our injuries hadn't healed; if we were discovered by the scouts, all our efforts would be in vain. If the scouts were too vigilant, forcing our way in was absolutely out of the question. We had to bypass the main patrols and enter through the western cliff path —the only entrance that could avoid the scouts. The scouts would alternate every half an incense stick's time, with brief gaps in between. We would use this time to cross this open area and infiltrate the western dense forest. Who's next? One hundred men by the lake, including Zhao Changlin and his ten commanders... Xuan Cang has broken through and returned to camp. Go check if there are any problems . Li Xuan Cang's injuries are more serious than Zhao Changlin's , but he stabilized earlier. He only needs to rest and recuperate to gradually recover. Zhao Changlin's injuries are too severe and he can only be sent to the rear for treatment . Li Xuan Cang, the order has been issued to the main camp. All the remnants of Hu Bianyi have been incorporated into the Xuan Yang County army. You still belong to the original Hu Bianyi system and will be under my unified command. Ten commanders, Li Xuan Cang has rendered meritorious service in defending the border and defending the retreat route . He has fought bravely and loyally in the breakout battle. Now, he is hereby reinstated to his original position and assigned to the remnants of the Hubianyi rebellion, forming a force of 10 regular soldiers under his command. He is under the command of King Tianshan. The order to immediately dispatch you to the barracks to settle and reorganize your troops, awaiting orders for the campaign. Your subordinates obey. You are reinstated to your original rank of ten commanders , but now directly under Wang Tianshan's command, effectively elevating your status. The camp is short-staffed; the ten soldiers I've assigned to you are elite veterans drawn from various armies. While not as efficient as your original men , they are all highly skilled and experienced in battle. Now that you've returned, settle them down, allow them to rest and integrate, and prepare your troops. The border war is pressing; there will be many battles to fight. Remember, you have the entire camp behind you. Thank you, sir . The military camp is rife with factions; one battalion commander relies on … It's better than fighting alone. Your strength isn't bad. Once you've fully recovered , cultivate diligently and strive to break through to the late stage of the Body Tempering Realm as soon as possible. At that time, I will try to get you promoted to a Hundred-Man General. If you can become a Hundred-Man General and command a hundred men , it will be an absolute honor for your ancestors. Even the county magistrate, the most powerful person in the county, will treat you with respect. Your subordinate will certainly live up to your expectations. Greetings, Commander Li. From now on, you and I are comrades. From now on, we will each perform our duties in training, guard duty, and battle. Merit will be rewarded and demerit will be punished. We will obey your orders. Heh heh , now my strength is comparable to the late stage of the Body Tempering Realm . Who would have thought, who would have thought that Li Xuancang would actually make a name for himself on the frontier ? He's a tenth-rank official, a proper military officer! Our Li family has never produced such a figure before. If we had lent a hand to the Li family back then, we could have benefited from the military officer's fame! Oh, how foolish we were! Exemption from taxes and corvée labor , and military protection— what an honor! We missed our chance to climb the social ladder . Now, thinking about it, I'm filled with regret. Oh no, we can't just stand by and do nothing ! We're taking generous gifts and heading to Qingxi Village. Eighth floor... What's going on? Where did all these people come from ? Stop! Who are you? What brings you to my Qingxi Village? We are members of Li Dahai's clan. We don't know where the Li family is, so please lead the way. You are members of the Li family , or have come to curry favor with the Li family? The Li family is ahead; I'll take you there. Hurry back to the house . Dahai , congratulations, Brother Li! My nephew Xuancang has made great achievements on the border and become a tenth commander. It is truly an honor for our entire Li clan! Yes, yes, I knew that my nephew Xuancang was no ordinary person. I saw his extraordinary talent back then , and now he has indeed brought glory to our family. Brother and sister-in-law, you have suffered these years. It is all because the Su clan has not taken good care of us. He came specifically to apologize and brought some food and clothing ; you must accept them. Brother, now that Xuancang has become the border commander, our entire Li clan is counting on you for your good fortune. Yes, in these chaotic times , taxes are heavy and bandits and demons roam freely. If Xuancang could ask for some tax reductions for our clan and request military status for protection, our entire clan would be grateful for his great kindness. We are all one family. Xuancang's success will naturally bring the clan along to enjoy the benefits. From now on, the clan will follow Xuancang's arrangements. We only ask that you, my nephew, protect the clan. Xuancang has fought bloody battles on the border; every achievement he has made is a reward. His life was exchanged for his fate, and we can't decide that . As for the clan, since they didn't recognize our generation back then , there's no need for us to come back now . The name Li is not unique; we share the same lineage and origins. Even broken bones are still connected by tendons. The past is the past ; don't hold grudges. Yes, Da Hai , Xuan Cang is a member of the Li clan . Now that he's successful , he should support the clan. Da Hai, you must be magnanimous! Get out! My Li family doesn't welcome you! All of you, get out! Li Da Hai, don't be so insolent! Li Da Hai, how dare you speak to the clan elders like that? Do you still have any respect for the clan? Li Da Hai, are you trying to forget your ancestors? Get out of here, or I'll report you all to the authorities and have you all thrown in jail ! Dahai, they're so outspoken , don't take it to heart . Dahai, we're leaving now, we'll see you another day. Dahai, we're all members of the Li clan, please don't report us to the authorities! Alright, Li Dahai, you 've risen to prominence and now you don't recognize your clan anymore! Just wait! This kind of ungrateful scoundrel will surely be punished by heaven! The battlefield ahead is a life-or-death struggle. When Li Xuancang dies on the battlefield, let's see how arrogant he can be then ! Oh no! This is the Great General's Drum! Hurry to the training ground ! Barbarians are attacking ! Prepare for battle! Defend the pass! Is this the Qi Refining Realm? As long as you give yourself enough time, the Qi Refining Realm won't be the end , nor will commanding thousands of men. Follow me! Barbarians and demons have joined forces! Truly despicable! Two great enemies colluding! We're in danger! This battle is fraught with peril. I hope we can hold off the barbarian attack ! The demon beasts are coming ! What should we do? The demon beasts are ferocious! We can't possibly be their match ! I don't want to die! I don't want to die! Don't panic! Stay calm! They're just a bunch of beasts! What's there to fear? Hold on! Anyone who retreats without permission will be killed, and their families will be implicated! Ahhh ! This is terrifying! Is this the strength of the Qi Refining Realm? From four or five hundred meters away, a single spear thrust killed a demon tiger that was at least at the Bone Breaking Realm. If Zhou Xingzhan wanted to attack me, it would be no different than crushing an ant . My strength is still too weak. I can't afford to be complacent. Charge in, seize Xu Qiu, kill them all ! Everything the human race has will be ours! Food and beauties are waiting! Follow me, kill ! Fire arrows! Hold the line ! The pass I'm at is the main attacking position of the barbarians! The pressure is immense! Hold on! Hold them off! Don't let them in ! Hold on! Kill! Who is this person? Such powerful combat strength! This kid is incredibly strong ! Is he born with divine strength? This kind of power has already surpassed most Shi Changhai ! Wow ! I alone killed nearly a hundred barbarians, including seven or eight at the Body Tempering Realm. More than half of our 3,000 soldiers have perished, all wounded , their weapons dulled, and we've exhausted all our arrows, logs, and thunderstones. The casualties of the 5,000 alien troops are even more terrifying; only a little over 1,000 remain, and they're completely routed. Oh no! Commander Liu has fallen! The western pass has been breached ! The Blood Condensation Realm commander is dead! The defense line, riddled with holes, is completely untenable ! Ahhh! Uhhh ! The entire army retreats, abandoning the pass and charging eastward! "Surround and retreat to Yuyang City! Retreat quickly! Don't even think about escaping! Chase them down and slaughter them all! Xuan Cang, follow me to break through! Yes, sir! The demon beasts are coming! Run! Oh no! I'm numb from killing, my strength is failing, my body has reached its limit ! Ah! Soldiers, there's a city ahead! We've arrived! We've arrived! We're alive! Great! We're saved! Men, carry all these unconscious soldiers into the city! Collapse! Not far from the camp is the city's slums. There are corpses everywhere ! Give me some food, sir! Please, give me some! I beg you! Street food..." Shops were tightly shut, grain prices were shockingly high, and ordinary people could only eat tree bark and clay. Ahhh, thankfully I'm already the tenth elder , my parents, elder sister, and younger sister can be protected. In this chaotic world, you must survive! Selling flowers, sweets! But the city center seems to be a completely different world. Hurry up, hurry up! Hahaha! The masters and ladies in the mansions are dressed in fine robes, feasting day and night. On the other side, however, is a hell on earth— the rich feast on meat and wine, the poor freeze to death on the streets . I must become stronger , I must climb step by step to protect my family in this chaotic world. Stop! Who are you? Why are you looking around suspiciously in the street? Tenth Elder Li Xuancang of Cangyunling Lakeside Post Station ! My lord , I was blind and didn't recognize you. I offended you, my lord. Please forgive me, my lord. Please step back. Thank you, my lord. In less than half a month, Cangyunling fell completely, the border army suffered a crushing defeat, and reports of the battle swept across the rear. Panic spread like a plague throughout Yuyang County. Grain shops and cloth stores were emptied, and unscrupulous merchants took the opportunity to inflate prices . 10 The price of rice and grain rose to hundreds or even thousands of coins. An imperial edict completely crushed the lower classes. Due to successive defeats in the war, the court ordered a threefold increase in taxes. All shops and farmers had to pay within a month. Those who failed to pay on time would have their property confiscated and be sent to the army. Pay taxes quickly! The court has ordered that anyone who dares to resist taxes is a traitor ! If you have no grain, take your house and clothes as collateral. If you still don't pay, you 'll be arrested and sent to the army. Paying taxes is your duty. How dare you shirk your responsibilities? Parents, will you survive this calamity? Listen to the court's urgent tax increase! Every household must pay in full. Anyone who delays even a fraction will be punished for tax resistance! If you have no money or grain, take people as collateral! The men will be sent to the border for military service, and the elderly and weak will be sent for corvée labor. Don't even think about escaping! We're all gone! Parents, officials, please, leave us a way to live! We have nothing left! Get out of here! How dare you resist taxes! You're such a troublemaker! No, no, officials! This is my only son! Someone do me a good deed and buy my daughter! She's beautiful and can do anything! The officials came to collect taxes, but many villagers couldn't pay. Their families were taken away to serve in the army, and some were selling their children. "Didn't the court just collect taxes? Why are they collecting again?" the officials said. They said it was because the front lines were losing ground and more food and supplies were needed. The emperor himself ordered the tax collection. " Will Xuancang be in danger after the front lines are defeated? " the officials said. " Xuancang is a lucky man; Heaven will surely protect him." "Yes, yes, Xuancang will definitely be alright. Heaven protects us ! Is this the residence of Lord Li Xuancang?" "Yes, sir, we are Master Li and Madam Li. I am a tax collector from the county, ordered to collect taxes." " I have long heard that you two are close relatives of Commander Li at the border. Lord Li has rendered meritorious service to the country by guarding the border. Your household has long been protected by military status, exempt from all taxes and corvée labor. I have come specifically to inform you and will not disturb you. Understood. Thank you, sir. If you encounter any inconvenience in the village, or if anyone dares to cause trouble, please let me know, and I will take care of it for you . We will not disturb you any longer." "I'll take my leave now. Look at how different their attitude towards the Li family is compared to ours! It's all because of the Li family's son. He's become a division commander on the border, with military status and protection . Even the court has to give him face. If my child could be so successful, we wouldn't have to suffer like this. The world has really changed. Parents, don't sell me. I can do many things. I only eat one meal every two days. Once you've taken my money, you're mine. Take the child away! Her father, it's better to mind your own business. Have you forgotten what Xuanzang said in the letter? Parents, after taking care of yourselves, help the neighbors. In times of chaos, we support each other and ensure our own future. Alas, the Zhang family girl is living a life worse than death in the hands of the wealthy Qian. The wealthy Qian is ruthless . The girls he buys never live more than a few months. Take her away! Stop! Hmph , so it's Master Li. I didn't know it was you, Your Excellency." Please don't take offense at me, Zhang Cuier. How much did my family buy her for? Uncle Li, please save me! I eat very little, I can do anything! Master Li, Zhang Cuier was sold to me by the Zhang family and is now part of my household. I don't want to sell her, is that right? Yes, gentlemen , it was him who forced me to buy her. It was you who forced me to buy her and dared to offend Master Li. Do you know what crime you should be punished for? Master, this is all a misunderstanding , all a misunderstanding! Master, I don't want this girl anymore. I'm willing to give her to Master Li. Everyone can testify. Master Li, please consider this arrangement. Yes, hurry up and release her. Thank you, Uncle Li. Child, get up quickly and come home with me. Heh, Master Li, take care. If you need anything, please give me your orders. Respectfully seeing you off. Master Li, don't worry, son, we will listen to you . Please, officials, we have met Madam Zhang. We are here to collect taxes. Your brother, Lord Li, is stationed on the border. "Your merit has earned you a special order from above to have your taxes reduced by half and to be exempt from any corvée labor or military service. Did you hear that? Did you hear that your daughter-in-law is Lord Li's own sister? Thank you, gentlemen. Madam Zhang, you are too kind . This is a favor that Lord Li deserves. If there are any difficulties in the future , please send someone to inform us. We will do our best to take care of our brother. Thanks to you! My God, the Zhang family only pays half taxes and is exempt from corvée labor. This is so enviable! We were forced to the point of ruin, and they were able to have half taxes reduced. Isn't it because their daughter-in-law is the sister of that Lord Li on the border? They benefited from Lord Li's influence, and even the officials treat them with great courtesy. Xiuer, come sit in the courtyard. It's windy outside. Don't tire yourself out, my good daughter-in -law . I have really wronged you. I was so foolish to treat you like this before. Now I realize..." " Our entire Zhang family owes its existence to you, Xiuer! We owe you so much, we owe you so much to our brother-in -law ! From now on, you don't need to do anything around the house, I'll take care of everything. Just rest well, sister-in-law. From now on, you're like my own sister. If anyone dares to say a bad word about you, I'll be the first to object. I'll help with the housework from now on, so please don't overwork yourself. This sudden respect and preferential treatment is all earned by my brother with his life. I only hope that he can be safe and sound at the border, suffer fewer injuries, and return victorious soon. Today we're not practicing formations, we're practicing one-on-one combat. I'll take on ten of you by myself. Anyone who can touch the hem of my clothes will get extra meat tonight , hehehehehehe. Sir , is this strength even human? You could do ten thousand spear thrusts a day! Everyone get up, next group! Tenth Commander Zhao Hu, you'll lead the team. I feel like your strength has increased quite a bit since last month, 1% daily." It may seem insignificant , but it's 30% a month. Even if I had another six months, the Bone-Breaking Realm wouldn't stop me. The next group will start making the barbarians fear you. First, let your robes and fur coats be removed. You are a member of the Li clan. All members, listen to my orders! Pay all taxes within three days . If you're short even a penny, you'll have to pay with your clan's land and people. Officer, we are a member of Li Xuancang's clan. He is now the tenth commander of the border. Shouldn't our clan be exempt from taxes? Hmph, there's an order from above. Mayor Li's protected list only includes his parents and in-laws from Qingshan Village. The Li clan has never been mentioned. Besides, who doesn't know that Mayor Li has long been expelled from your family and severed ties? Now you still want to cling to military status and get tax exemption ? You 're really delusional. We are Li Xuancang's clan members. You can't arrest us. Li Xuancang is a border general. If you dare to touch us, he won't let you off. That's right, stop! We are Li's clan members. Get tax exemption now! You audacious madmen , how dare you impersonate a border general's clan member! Refusal to pay taxes is an even more serious crime. Commander Li has never acknowledged your clan. If you dare to speak nonsense and slander the military commander's reputation again, arrest you immediately and punish you for deceiving officials and bending the law. Search the area! Anyone who dares to obstruct us, arrest them all! Ahhh! It's over! The clan is over! We regret our heartless decision to expel the Li family from the clan. Now we are reaping what we sowed! Elder brother of the Li family, we are sorry! Reporting to the Captain: A shipment of military supplies, fully loaded with grain, weapons, and healing medicine, was being transported by our army when it was robbed by the Huangfeng Mountain bandits. The bandit leader, Lin Ye, also severely wounded all our soldiers. The Huangfeng bandits are incredibly audacious to rob our military supplies! Generals, heed my order: immediately dispatch troops to wipe out the Huangfeng Mountain range , retrieve the supplies , and kill the bandit leader, Lin Ye! A band of mountain bandits from Huangfeng Ridge dared to rob military supplies and severely wound our officers and soldiers ! Their audacity is beyond reason. Ordinary bandits would rather avoid the Imperial Army than take on a tough nut to crack. If we recklessly enter the mountains now, Commander Lin will wait in ambush on the path with 500 elite troops. We're afraid we won't even hear a sound. What's more troublesome is that news of the looted supplies has spread throughout the city, as if deliberately provoking us to send troops. But we can't say these things now; the lord is furious. All the officers in the tent are in favor of war. This humble general is willing to be the vanguard. To say we shouldn't advance rashly would be pouring cold water on morale and undermining the army. Not only would it be useless, but it would also be seen as cowardice. Commander Li Xuancang, immediately prepare your soldiers to follow Commander Zhou Xiong. Lord, march to Huangfeng Mountain! Slay the bandits and retrieve the supplies! Yes! This expedition's objective: Huangfeng Mountain! Retrieve the supplies! Annihilate the bandits! Anyone who dares to be cowardly or retreat will be punished according to military law! "Order the entire army to be on high alert, beware of ambushes ! Kill them all, these lackeys of the imperial court ! How could ordinary bandits have so many arrows ? Do they have someone behind them? Form a shield formation, hold your position , and follow me in the counterattack! The left flank is a series of towering cliffs and mountains. This band of bandits must rely on this natural barrier, making them virtually impenetrable . If we cross the Heavenly Sword and seize this place , we can break down this defensive line! Everyone, follow me in a flanking attack ! Ahhh! Kill these lackeys of the imperial court! Die ! Hahaha! Good lad, you actually know how to cross this natural barrier and pull off a surprise attack! Retreat deep into the mountains ! Don't let the bandit leader escape! Kill him ! Ahhh ! Damn it!" Even if the Snow Condensation Realm erupts, it's still no match for me, Zhou Xiong. Stop them , don't let a single one escape ! The time to make a name for yourself has come! Kill them all! These are all battle merits! I'll kill them to my heart's content! The battle lasted for several hours, with over a thousand bandits killed or wounded. More than half were killed or wounded, with only a little over 200 escaping into the deep mountains and forests. Don't pursue a desperate enemy! Quickly bring the supplies back! Yes, Lord Zhou! The bandits have abducted over a hundred women. What should we do with them? Bring them all back to Yuyang City! Yes, all of you, go and rest. I will report to the Captain. Rewards will be given according to merit. Thank you, sir! Tenth Commander Li Xuancang's bravery in the bandit suppression battle surpassed that of the entire army. His decisive action on the spot broke the enemy's ambush. For his outstanding military achievements, he has been specially promoted to the rank of centurion, commanding one hundred elite soldiers under the command of centurion Zhou Xiong . It has been less than half a year since he joined the clan ; if it were the original owner of this body, he probably would never have reached this position in his entire life. But I know that the faster one climbs, the more difficult it becomes—the more treacherous the ground beneath one's feet. He is bestowed with one hundred catties of refined iron, a hundred-times-forged spear, a suit of armor, forty top-grade cultivation pills, one hundred taels of silver, ten bolts of silk, and ten acres of fertile land. He is also specially awarded a military merit medal and listed in the military merit register for hereditary succession. General Li Xuancang accepts the order and from this day forward will enjoy the salary of a centurion, be provided with his own tent, and be able to choose his own soldiers for training. All deployments are under your full command. Thank you, Captain. This humble general, Nangong Zhan, greets you, sir. You are my new adjutant; no need for formalities. From now on, you will follow me closely. Yes, sir. You will follow me; I will compensate for your weaknesses and give you my strengths. But if you ever hinder the troops in the slightest, I will not show you any mercy out of our friendship. Yes, sir. If I fail you, I will bring my head upon myself . Now that I am competent as a centurion, I must establish my own troops. The following soldiers, listen to my orders: Wang Xiaoniu is promoted to sergeant. Wu Dadao leads the first squad. All the rest of you are promoted one rank and your salary is doubled. Yes, sir. I will obey your orders, sir. From this day forward... I am no longer an ordinary soldier charging into battle, but a commander of a hundred men, a centurion, a commander-in-chief of the Body Condensation Realm, Bone Breaking Realm, Blood Coagulation Realm, Steel Qi Realm, Ten Palms Centurion, a thousand-man commander. I need a stronger realm, I need a higher military rank to protect my family and the common people. Ah, I've grown another 15% in half a month. Now, even a barbarian in the mid-Bone Breaking Realm might not be able to withstand this punch. More than half a month has passed , why haven't the barbarians launched an attack? The army has retreated to Yuyang City for more than a month , yet the barbarians have not launched an attack. Logically , the barbarians should take advantage of their victory and wipe out the remnants of the human race in one fell swoop. Their inaction, however, gave us a chance to breathe. Even so , the current situation is in their favor. Give me time, and I can transform myself. During this period, the government forcibly conscripted a large number of people to form a 5,000-strong militia. Although these militia were weak , they were more than capable of assisting in defending the city. Lord Zhou summoned me. Zhou Xiong summoned me , saying it was urgent. After days of peace , this sudden summons meant either a major battle was imminent or something had happened in the rear. Neither seemed like good news. You come with me. Little Meow, Little Meow, let Zhao Hu stabilize the troops . Continue training, don't let gossip distract you. Greetings, sir, please sit . I summoned you here for a major operation. The captain has ordered us to rush to Black Wind Ridge tonight to ambush and cut off the barbarian army's retreat . Lord Zhou, is the army launching a counter-offensive? Execute the order! Prepare to depart tonight. No one is to divulge a single word. It's a dark and windy night . A force of over a thousand men, under the cover of darkness , quietly departs Qingyuan County. The army doesn't take the official road; they travel by night and hide by day, carrying only a few days' worth of rations. Avoiding everyone's sight, they reach their designated position. Sir, the main force has already moved; they will press forward before dawn. Pass down the order: everyone must keep their mouths shut. Before dawn, anyone who makes a sound will be court-martialed; I'll personally offer my head to see Zhou Xiong . Ah , Zhou Xin, stand at the front and tear open the gap. I'll keep an eye on the rear, everyone doing their part. But when it comes to hand-to-hand combat, it's not about strategy , it's about how hard your fists are . I also want to test my progress over the past two weeks. Meanwhile, the main force has moved forward. At the same time , Zhou Xingzhan led all the troops, a mighty army, marching towards Cangyun Ridge. Among the army are hundreds of people dressed as martial arts practitioners , from various gangs and forces across the country. They are the main force in this counterattack against the barbarians. The gang members are positioned slightly to the left of the center, spread out widely. If used well, they are a sharp blade; if used poorly , they will crumble at the first touch, and no one can stop them. It all depends on whether Zhou Xingzhan can control the situation. My lord, the human race has been crippled by us and is no longer a threat. If they come here to die, then perhaps we should... " Give them the chance, but don't be careless. The humans dared to take the initiative, so they must have made preparations . Most importantly, they've fallen out with the demon race. Without the demons' help, dealing with the humans will result in many more casualties. Hmph, what's there to fear from mere humans ? If you're afraid , let me lead the charge. Don't be reckless ; caution is paramount. Reorganize your troops and follow me to battle ! The barbarians are attacking ! Are we their match? We can't possibly defeat the barbarians ! Ah! Ah! Ah! Ah! Ah! Ah! Ah! Ah! Ah! No matter what kind of demons or monsters they are , as long as they offend my Great Yan, they will be punished no matter how far away they are. Fight with me ! Ah! Ah! Ah ! Ah! I've already blocked the first wave of fleeing soldiers with my hundred-man squad. Now, before the barbarian reinforcements arrive, we must quickly adjust our formation. The front is still fighting!" Hearing the commotion, the barbarians' retreat was halted by Zhou Xingzhan's half-retreat, half-fighting strategy. The longer it dragged on, the more the routed soldiers would be worn down. By the time they actually reached me, Zhou Xingzhan had already loosened their bones. " Sir, we caught the first wave, but the numbers after that are wrong. I counted, there are already three or four hundred, more than we expected. The barbarian main force retreated much faster than Tao Hao reported. So what if there are more? The mountain path is so narrow. The more people there are, the tighter they get. The more they can't move their arms and legs." His voice wasn't loud, but every word was precious. " We have the advantage of terrain. No matter how many we come, it's all for free." Each division commander counted the numbers. The lightly wounded stepped back and bandaged themselves. The seriously wounded leaned against the division commander. The rest stood up straight. The barbarian main force hasn't arrived yet. It 's Zhou... Xingzhan, you absolutely must hold on! The longer you hold on, the more relaxed I'll be. Wait until I completely blockade this side before letting Gu Shuo over. Only then can we finish this game! Charge! Kill them all! Prepare for battle ! What are you doing ?! Hurry up and kill the enemy! If you want to live, fight to the death! Whoever can kill three barbarians can become a warrior and change allegiance ! If you don't want to die, kill them ! Retreating will only make you die faster ! I want to become a warrior, and no one can stop me! Death is nothing to fear! Are these barbarians? They don't have three heads and six arms! Kill ! Zhou Xingzhan, stop your recklessness ! Are you going to attack? No rush! Don't let Gu Shu escape! Ahhh, wait, where did all these strong humans come from? They deserve to die! We've been tricked! Humans are so despicable! Hahaha! Barbarians are nothing special! Ahhh, just one more! Just one more ! I want to become a warrior and protect my family. No one can stop me from killing the enemy ! Ahhh! Despicable! Retreat ! Bandits, do n't go! Ahhh! Here we come ! We've fallen into a trap! Kill! We absolutely cannot let a single barbarian escape ! Kill! Ahhh! Oh no! An ambush ! Ahhh! Hahaha! That's great! That's great! If I kill you all , I can become a warrior captain ! Die, all of you warriors! Are you willing to become prisoners of a bunch of human brats? For the sake of the tribe, kill! Kill! My lord! Barbarians are too ferocious! We can't stop them! Even if we can't stop them, we must! If we let one barbarian escape, I'll hold you all accountable! No one will escape alive! Ahhh ! Oh no! It's a Bone-Breaking Mirror! I had no choice but to fight ! He actually withstood all my attacks! How is that possible, sir? Are you alright? I'm just a little exhausted. We finally won this battle! The great war is over! The barbarian army was completely wiped out ! We won! We defeated the barbarians! We gained a lot from this battle . When it's time to reward our merits , I wonder how much we'll be promoted! All the soldiers of the Foreign Army fought bravely and relentlessly in this battle, achieving outstanding results. From this day forward, all of them will be incorporated into the regular combat ranks of the Great Yan, enjoying the full salary and benefits of soldiers of the same rank, and sharing the same rights and honors as the imperial soldiers. Silence ! We will now begin the reward ceremony. Centurion Zhou Xiong led his men to intercept the barbarians' retreat, making a great contribution. Centurion Li Xuancang led the charge in this battle , killing 67 barbarian soldiers. He slew five cultivators at the Body Condensation Realm, one leader at the Bone Breaking Realm, and terrified the barbarians in the enemy's central army . He is bestowed with 100 jin of refined iron, a hundred-forged spear, a suit of armor, forty top-grade cultivation pills, 100 taels of silver, ten bolts of silk, and ten mu of fertile land. He is also specially awarded a military merit medal, his name recorded in the military merit register for generations to come. This humble general thanks the Captain for his kindness; this is what you deserve. As long as you achieve sufficient merit, this general will never be stingy with rewards. Thank you for your guidance, brothers. I have no need for these pills. You can divide it up, sir. Take this and that, everyone can share equally. Thank you, sir. Let's pack up and begin rebuilding. Those despicable barbarians! They're so hateful! Those damned barbarians should have been exterminated back then! Hey ha ha, why are there so many people ? Are they fleeing? No, this is a border region. Even if people are fleeing, they should go elsewhere , not here. Stop! Stop ! Sir, where do you come from and why are you here? Replying to the military officer: We come from Yunzhou. We are fleeing. What happened in Yunzhou ? Why are you fleeing? Your Majesty, the Prince of Fu in Yunzhou has rebelled, colluding with the evil cult, the White Lotus Sect, and demons. The entire Yunzhou has become a living hell. They cut off the court's connection with other places. We could only flee to Anzhou. The Prince of Fu 's rebellion also colluded with evil cults and demons. Yunzhou is rich and prosperous, with a virtuous and cultured people. It ranks among the top in the twenty-five states of the Great Yan Dynasty. This Prince of Fu is also an unfathomable cultivator with countless powerful warriors under his command. His rebellion is undoubtedly a blow to the corrupt and decadent Great Yan Dynasty. The fatal blow to the fallen dynasty: Yunzhou is the gateway to Anzhou. Prince Fu has even occupied the gateway; most of Anzhou is already in his pocket. Xuanyang County City claims to be still defending , but who cares about the surrounding counties, towns, and villages? My parents are in Qingxi Village, not far from Yunzhou. If Prince Fu's troops continue to advance, they will have to pass through Qingxi Village sooner or later. You will come with me to the military camp to settle down first. My lord, I can go with you , but you must release them first. Thank you, sir. Please take them first. Give the old people and children a drink of water on the way. I will investigate further ahead. See if there are any other refugee groups. The adults haven't rested yet. They must have walked quite a distance leading those refugees back today . I can't sleep . The words those refugees said during the day have been replaying in my mind several times . Xiao Zhan, if the Prince of Fu's army reaches Xuan Yang County, what do you think the county governor will do? He'll tighten defenses , withdraw all surrounding troops into the county city to protect the core, and probably won't be able to care for the villages outside. That's what I think too. That's why this letter is to urge my parents to leave early. If we wait until the army is at the gate, it will be too late. The Prince of Fu has rebelled , barbarians are pressing in, demons are rampant —how long can the Great Yan Dynasty last? I don't know , but I know that every rank I climb higher will increase my parents' safety. A hundred men are not enough, a battalion commander is not enough either. We need to hurry. "Hurry up! Send this letter out by the military post station first thing tomorrow morning, then come with me to the drill ground to train the new recruits again. We'll have to fight sooner or later; the sooner we prepare , the more lives we 'll have. Yes, sir, please sit down. News has come from the prefectural capital : the Prince of Fu in Yunzhou has rebelled! What? The Prince of Fu has rebelled? How is that possible? What should we do? Quietly, Captain, you have ordered us to increase patrols during this period. Report any suspicious persons immediately. Do not be careless. Yes, all of you , step down. Very well, my current strength is enough to rival those in the Bone-Breaking Realm. I am not weak even in the Bone-Breaking Realm. I have been in this world for almost half a year, and my strength has reached more than 600 of my original strength , completely surpassing the human realm. Ordinary swords and blades can no longer harm me. This 1% increase every day will be a bit slow in the early stages ." Nothing has changed , but later on , every day brings rapid progress. With my current strength , I can even fight against someone at the Blood Condensation Realm. I desperately need a major battle to prove my strength. The rebellion in Yunzhou can't be kept secret from the demons and barbarians; they'll find out soon. They won't let this opportunity pass. The garrison commander has ordered us to abandon Cangyun Ridge and defend Xuanyang County to the death. Go and prepare! We'll withdraw in three days ! Hahaha, excellent! Retreating to the county city is much safer than here. The county city walls are high, resources are plentiful, and the barbarians and demons can hardly breach them. If the army retreats to Xuanyang County and Qingyuan County, won't they be exposed to the barbarians and demons' ice-bound defenses? Once the army withdraws, the barbarians and demons will have no resistance and will inevitably unleash a massive massacre, a catastrophe for the people. What are your orders, Lord Nangong Zhan ? "Go immediately to Qingxi Village and ask the local officials to cooperate in bringing my parents and eldest sister's family to Xuanyang County for resettlement. What if the officials don't cooperate? My military medals have already been sent home. I'll use them directly. The officials won't dare to refuse. Yes, sir! " " Why are the officials here again? And soldiers? Are they here to conscript men and collect taxes again? We're doomed! We can't survive anymore! Are the officials going to force us again?" " Is this the residence of Master Li and Madam Li?" " This subordinate, Nangong Zhan, has been ordered by General Li Xuancang to escort you both to the county city for resettlement. " "You come from the border. Do you know if my son is well? Master Li and Madam Li, Lord Li is well. He specially sent me to escort you to Xuanyang County to enjoy your lives. This is Lord Li's personal letter and token. Please take a look." Haha, fellow villagers , Li Bai has repeatedly distinguished himself on the border and received great rewards. He has specially dispatched me to escort his family to the county seat to live a peaceful life . You need not panic. It turns out it was the young Li Bai who sent people to pick up his family. No wonder there was such a grand procession. The young Li Bai is truly filial . Even while fighting on the border, he doesn't forget to bring his parents away to enjoy a comfortable life. The county seat is safe. We can't defeat the barbarians and the demons. The Li family is going to live a peaceful life. Thank you, General. Let's set off. Will Zhou Xingzhan really pass through here? Of course, every move of this army is under our control. Whether we can wipe them out depends on you. This time, we must kill Zhou Xingzhan, flatten the Great Yan , and we can rest after passing through the Half-Moon Gorge. This full retreat and abandonment of the border defense line was a last resort. The army is carrying heavy supplies and marches slowly. Extremely vulnerable to ambush. The canyon before us is a natural ambush site. If I were in charge, I would never risk crossing the canyon at this time. Unfortunately, I am just a lowly centurion, insignificant and powerless. Ambush upon ambush! Kill! Capture Zhou Xingzhan! Avenge Gu Shuo ! Ahhh! Retreat from the canyon! Form a defensive formation ! Ahhh! Oh no! The two armies are working together perfectly, blocking the entrance and exit of the valley , trapping the entire human army ! Hahaha! You lowly humans, today is your burial ground ! Ahhh! My lord, go first! I will cover your rear! Take care! Kill! Even at the cost of self-destruction, forcibly channeling your power to stop us! You're courting death ! Ahhh ! Is this the strength of human cultivators? So utterly vulnerable! Even if our human race is weak , we know how to unite as one to defend our homeland! Barbarian demons, die! You deserve to die! Don't let him hold you back! Go after Zhou Xingzhan ! I 'll deal with him! Retreat! Retreat! My hundred-man force is positioned in the middle of the enemy's main attack, facing barbarian elites and demons several times our size! Maintain formation and retreat in an orderly fashion ! Follow me and charge out ! Don't panic! Keep your formation ! Ahhh! This terrifying power ! Is he even human? Kill him! Don't let him leave alive! Kill! Don't panic! Follow me and charge out! Defending this place is... There's only one way out : fight to the death to escape. Regroup and follow me to the weak point on the west side. Kill Lord Zhou! Brother Zhou's injuries are horrifying; his meridians are severed, his heart shattered, and he has no breath left. He's already dead . Zhou Xiong has been kind to me; I can't let him die without a proper body. I must bring Zhou Xiong's body back for a proper burial. Kill ! Ah! What a beast at the Body Tempering Realm! So this is all a Body Tempering Realm barbarian cultivator is made of ! He's not human ! Kill ! I can't let them leave alive. Let's retreat into the mountains, using the dense forest as cover. I'll cover the rear ! Stop ! Be careful! This is a barbarian! The difference in realm between Hu Yanzhuo, a renowned general of the Snow Condensation Realm, and others is like an insurmountable chasm. Tempering the body, breaking bones, and congealing blood— each realm represents a qualitative leap. Although I have surpassed most of the Bone Breaking Realm cultivators, I am not confident I can escape unscathed from a Blood Condensation Realm cultivator. Human junior general, you think you can escape after killing my barbarian clan? You must retreat immediately to the county city! I will stop him ! My lord, we will not leave! We are willing to live and die with you! Obey orders and leave quickly ! Hahaha! Do you think they can escape? Die! Hehehe! Damn it! What kind of monster is this? Incredibly strong, faster, and with reflexes than me! In the fierce battle over oil, I am no longer at my peak! He's still at his peak condition, this is completely illogical! Give me death! A full-force strike from the Blood Condensation Realm, three inches deep is enough, another half inch and this arm is ruined! Ah, you madman , you madman! Hey, sir, are you alright? Did n't I tell you to leave quickly? Why did you come back ? My lord, I... I thought I'd come here to collect my body after I died in battle! My lord, where is Huyan Zhuo? We can't reveal our strength too early. If a Blood Condensation Realm expert is defeated head-on by a hundred generals like me, and this gets back to the barbarians, they won't just send one next time. We can't reveal our hand; we need to find an excuse. Having slipped through, the barbarians, seeing the signal from the main army , quickly retreated. I was lucky to escape with my life. My lord, you are truly blessed by Heaven! You survived this calamity; good fortune will surely follow. But they will catch up soon! The barbarians will catch up soon! Let's go! Hey! It has long arms! It has long arms! What's this? What are you doing? The city has limited capacity; only 500 people are allowed in each day. Behave yourselves, line up and wait. No noise or crowding. Anyone who dares to cause trouble will be executed on the spot. Your Highness, please come in. This is Your Highness's family; they can enter directly without inspection. Behind you… Lord Zhang's carriage, please let us through immediately ! So it's General Li's family . I was blind to your greatness! No need to queue, please enter directly. Why must the common people suffer like this? If it weren't for my son's outstanding military achievements , my whole family would probably be waiting to die outside the city like this! Oh! What? Our army has been ambushed and suffered heavy losses! We're finished! Without an army, how can we resist the ferocious barbarians and demons? Damn it, even the county town is unsafe! Heavy losses! Well, my son, Xuancang , Master Li, Madam Li , don't worry, General Li will definitely be safe. I will go to the military camp to inquire, and I will immediately inform you as soon as I have any news. At this hour ... They should have entered the city by now. Nangong Zhan is reliable and won't be stopped at the city gate. Once inside, with military registration and documents, the government will take care of you. In chaotic times, entering the city is like entering a half-safe haven. No matter how badly injured you are, it's worth it. I've returned alive from this battle. Another achievement has been added to Ying Zong's list. Moreover, I drove away the Blood Clotting Mirror. Although I can't say it , I know where I've come from. Next time, it won't be a draw . We have to go. We need to find another place before dark. The smell of blood will attract something. Hmm, sir. Your subordinate greets you. Hand over Lord Zhou's body to Nangong Zhan. You may all go and rest. Even a centurion like Zhou Xiong, at the Blood Condensation Realm, would die of thirst. One can only imagine how brutal the Battle of Half-Moon Gorge was. Zhou Xiong died protecting the people and the county. We must not be so dejected as to betray the blood and sweat of Zhou Xiong and all the soldiers. This humble general will remember this. My parents... My lord, Master Li and Madam are resting at the post station. They are very worried. Please take me to see them quickly. Why haven't they arrived yet? The food is cold. I'll go heat it up. Coming! My little brother is here! Xuan Cang! My son ! Ah! Mother! Your unfilial son has worried you. It's good that you're back! Hehe, brother! After more than two years, our family is finally reunited. Come on, let's go home first. Xiao Zhan, you stay too, my lord. I didn't expect Lord Li to let me stay. Does this mean he completely considers me one of his own? This is an order! Your subordinate obeys! Your Excellency, Li Xuan Cang, has previously achieved numerous merits in suppressing bandits, defeating barbarians, beheading enemy chieftains , and breaking through enemy lines. He is often praised for his outstanding military achievements and skillful command. The hearts of the troops are with him . He is hereby promoted to Battalion Commander, leading 500 elite soldiers, under the command of the Central Army . The promotion was completely unexpected. Compared to the previous centurion, the battalion commander now held real military power, commanding only 500 elite soldiers . He was already a mid-level officer, completely removed from the ranks of lower-ranking officers, and qualified to participate in military intelligence and lead an army in battle. Li Baijiang—no, Battalion Commander Li—your achievements are evident to all. In the Battle of Half-Moon Gorge, dozens of barbarians died at your hands , including many cultivators . You also killed six demonic beasts, the strongest of which, a black bear, was comparable to a Bone-Breaking Realm cultivator. With the merits you have made, your promotion to battalion commander is more than enough. This humble general will certainly live up to the expectations of my lord and all the generals. In such a short time, you have risen from a lowly soldier to... His rapid rise to the rank of Battalion Commander is truly rare in the border army. No one knows how far he will go in the future. The army is currently severely weakened and in dire need of manpower, so his promotion to Battalion Commander is only natural. Your original tribe will still be under your command, and the remaining soldiers will be replenished soon. My lord, you have killed a large number of enemies in every battle, so it is only right that you be promoted to Battalion Commander. My lord, with your promotion to Battalion Commander, we also have the opportunity to advance further. Yes, following you, my lord , is the wisest choice I have ever made. Hmph, as long as I continue to rise, their treatment will also continue to improve. Hehe, you will be granted a private general's mansion in the county town . The courtyard is spacious enough to house my entire family. Furthermore, my monthly salary has increased tenfold, and I receive monthly allowances of high-quality rice, salt, meat, silk, qi-growth pills, and spirit rice— enough to support my own cultivation and the family's financial needs. The benefits are self-evident. Do not be complacent with this promotion; we have a long road ahead. Respectfully yours, Commander Li. Wang Xiaoniu, brave in battle, killed 8 enemies, promoted to Tenth Commander. You have already broken through to the early stage of the Body Tempering Realm and are qualified to serve as Tenth Commander . Thank you, sir . Zhang Dajun, from today onwards, will serve as Director . Hmm, go and train. Yes, sir . Brother, it's Commander Yin! Am I dreaming? No, it's real ! For them, a hundred years of life was already unattainable, and President Yin wouldn't even dare to dream of it , but all of this actually happened. Erzhu, you must always listen to Xiuer from now on. Our family is counting on Xiuer. Mother , I know. Hehe, Brother Li is so amazing. If it weren't for Grandpa Li saving me back then , I might have been tortured to death by the wealthy Qian family. Where would I be today with such a good life? Now that Brother Li has become such a high-ranking official , it's truly deserved. It's getting late, we should set off for the new mansion. Hahaha , wow, what a big courtyard! Will we live here from now on? Father, Mother, this mansion is located in the center of the county town, and there are always yamen runners around. With patrols now secure , we no longer need to worry about thugs harassing us. Those who live here are all powerful and influential. Even the wealthy Li from the village, who would kill for a place in that mansion, has been taken by me, old Li! Good! Father and Mother, I'm planning to buy some servants. The yard is too big and needs cleaning. You're getting old , and I can't bear to see you continue to toil. In these chaotic times , people are the least valuable thing. Buying some servants is nothing to me. Xuan Cang, isn't this a bad idea? We're just ordinary people, always relying on our own efforts. If we have more people to serve us , we'll feel uncomfortable. I'll just buy a few... A maid and servants can handle the household affairs simply. Alright, my son is not what he used to be . We'll just follow your arrangements. We can't offer you any help , but we'll try our best not to hold you back. Oh, by the way, I've also found my brother-in-law a job in the government. He can start in three days, earning one tael of silver a month . Second brother, is that true? To become an official and earn one tael of silver a month is like my ancestors were blessed! From now on, I can finally escape my peasant status and eat the food of an official. Although I don't like Zhang Erzhu very much , he is still my brother-in-law, so I can't just not arrange things for him. I spent my days loafing around at home, waiting to die. Now that I'm in government service, I'll obey orders without question. I mustn't use my position; otherwise, I'll be completely obedient and would never dare to act recklessly or commit any heinous acts of bullying and oppression. Now that everything is arranged, the focus should be on military matters at the border. That's good . Father and Mother, I've prepared everything. If you need me, I'll return to the camp to handle military matters. Ah! The barbarians and demons are attacking! Everyone, run! Father and Mother, don't abandon me! Save me ! Someone save me! Hahaha! Human women have such delicate skin and flesh, nobody can take them from me ! Hahaha! Grain, wealth, and women are all ours! How wonderful! Hahaha! We're charging in! There's a batch of grain in Qingyuan County that needs to be transported to the county seat. Barbarians and demons have already invaded Xuanyang County , and someone needs to escort this batch of grain. Who among you is willing to go? With more and more people fleeing to the county seat, the daily consumption of grain is enormous. This batch of grain in Qingyuan County is crucial and cannot be lost. Barbarians and demons have already invaded Xuanyang County. Only the county seat is truly safe. If they leave the county seat and encounter barbarians and demons, their chances of survival are slim . No one dares to risk their lives. We've been raising an army for a thousand days, but now that it's time to contribute, you're all... "You're all cowering like turtles! My lord , I am willing to go ! So many barbarian beasts and monsters are in Qingyuan County now. Li Xuancang, to rashly accept the order is tantamount to courting death! A newborn calf is not afraid of a tiger! Young man, you are too impulsive! The area outside the city is a den of dragons and tigers. Leaving the city now is suicide! Even if there is a shortage of food in the city, you and your family will not lack food. Why risk your life? General, I appreciate your kindness, but protecting the people and safeguarding the land is the duty of a man of Great Yan. If I do not risk my life , how can I live up to this golden armor? How can I live up to the expectations of the people? This batch of grain is crucial to the stability of the county. You must act with caution . " If this batch of grain cannot be transported to the city, the city will inevitably be in turmoil. People depend on food for survival ; without grain, the people will go completely mad. At that time, the county government will be beset by internal and external troubles, and will be in grave danger . Commandant, rest assured, I will definitely transport the grain back to the county city. More than half a month has passed since I fought the barbarians at the Blood Condensation Realm. Now my strength has improved by leaps and bounds. Even if I encounter a Blood Condensation Realm expert, I am confident I can kill them. I even hope that the barbarians and demons will attack me soon, so that I can gain more merit. After all, General Ying can never satisfy my appetite. I want to be promoted to centurion as quickly as possible, climbing step by step to the highest position and controlling my own life and death. My lord, you accepted this task ... We'll definitely follow your orders, right? How many men to take and which route to take? I'll go prepare now. You two do the same. You know what the situation is like outside the city, sir. You've led us all the way from the barbarian camp to where we are today. Wherever you go, we go. Having someone willing to follow and risk their life is more useful than any military manual. This time, we can't take all veterans , but the core must be trustworthy. Xiao Niu and Zhao Hu are both considered, Nangong Zhan is the second-in-command, and the rest can be picked up on the way. Prepare well. Bring enough dry rations and water, and two quivers for each person. Arrows , spears, and swords must all be sharpened. Meet at the camp gate in an hour. Also, bring a map; I need to review it on the way. Xuan Yang County is several hundred miles from here. With grain carts, it would take at least six or seven days to travel such a large troop out of the county town. The barbarians' spies couldn't possibly miss it. Once they find out, the most likely place to attack is on the return journey. Going there is actually safer. So, on the way, mentally review all possible ambush points. Ah, what's going on ? Why has the court dispatched troops? What is the purpose of the imperial army's large-scale mobilization? Have the barbarians attacked? The army marches at full speed, heading to Xuanyang County as quickly as possible. It's hundreds of kilometers from Qingyuan City; it will take several days to arrive. The news will spread from the county town as soon as I lead the army out of the city , quickly reaching the barbarians. We must prepare for this battle early. I ride in the middle of the column, maintaining a visible distance between the vanguard and the rearguard. This is a marching strategy I decided before leaving the city—no stretching , no clustering, and mutual support . My lord, there's nothing unusual ten miles ahead , but there are signs of human activity on the hills on both sides. They weren't left by wild animals. This humble general has checked; they are hoofprints heading north . Northwards... We don't need to worry about our direction for now, but double the distance our scouts have to travel on the next stretch of road . Report any suspicious activity immediately, without waiting for my orders. The hoofprints point north, not our direction. But what if the barbarians try to circle around from the north to intercept us? 300, 500 , or even more? Before leaving the city, I suspected the news would leak and the barbarians would come to steal our food, but I didn't expect them to act so quickly. I've already ordered the scouts to expand their reconnaissance area. We must ensure we aren't caught off guard and ambushed. Sir, should we slow down? What if there's an ambush ahead? If we go too fast , we might run right into it. We can't slow down; the faster the better. The sooner we reach Qingyuan City, the sooner we can return. The longer we delay, the better prepared the barbarians will be. Traveling is important, but keep your eyes peeled. Pass down the order: keep the ranks tight and don't let the lines get separated. If we encounter an emergency, don't wait for me to call you; the five closest teams will automatically close in and form ranks. All of you, pay attention! Sir, I've ordered the ranks to keep tight. If attacked , they will automatically close in and form ranks. All of you, pay attention! We can't lose our food! We can't let people die in vain . If we mess this up, not only will we lose our achievements, but my parents have just established themselves in the county town. If I'm gone, they'll have nothing left. News has come from Xuanyang County that a 500-strong army is heading to Qingyuan County to transport grain. We can intercept them halfway and seize the grain. If we can seize this grain, the enemy's strength will diminish, and we'll be more confident in dealing with Xuanyang County. Could this be a ploy by Xuanyang County to lure us away? Humans have always been cunning; they might very well be plotting against us. Gu Yuan is right; we must be wary. General Gu Yuan is absolutely right. Although the Xuanyang County army has suffered heavy losses , Xuanyang County still has many powerful factions, with several known Qi Refining Realm experts . If we send our main force to intercept the Xuanyang County grain transport team, the humans might take advantage of the situation. "You gentlemen are nothing more than 500 men and a battalion commander. Let me go and I will wipe them out and bring back the grain. Hmph, any conspiracy or trickery is no match for absolute strength. A mere shadow commander's cultivation is only at the Bone Breaking Realm. If I were to take action, I would capture him with ease. Even if the human race has some schemes, as long as we hold the army, we will not fear attacks from human experts. If the human race has no schemes, then General Huyan will surely be able to seize the human race's grain. General Huyan, you shall lead the troops now and proceed according to plan. Yes, sir . We will reach the gates of Qingyuan County ahead. The journey has been smoother than expected over the past four days. The groups of refugees and small bands of bandits we encountered along the way did not dare to attack , and the barbarians have not yet shown themselves. But the smoother things go , the more we must not let our guard down. We have reached Qingyuan County. Will the grain be loaded onto the carts evenly? After loading, how will we get back to the city? This is the beginning of the second half . After entering the city, no one is allowed to relax. Yang Tiangang led people to inspect the grain. You come with me to see the county..." "I order everyone else to stay put and wait outside the city for my orders before moving. This is Du Yuanshu, the magistrate of Qingyuan County, greetings, General. I am only a battalion commander, yet Du Yuanshu addresses me as 'General,' clearly trying to curry favor and build rapport . Li Xuancang, the battalion commander of the prefectural army, greetings, Lord Du. General Li, we have prepared wine and food to welcome you. Please come in. I appreciate your kindness, Lord Du and all the other officials , but military orders are my duty, and there is no time to lose. We cannot delay important matters. Since General Li has his responsibilities, we will not insist. The grain transport team is already on high alert and will obey your orders. That's excellent. I even wish Li Xuancang would take over the grain. That way , even if something goes wrong with the grain , it will have nothing to do with us. Come with me. Check carefully to prevent these officials from taking over the grain from Wangzhuang. If what is being transported back is not grain, we will be unable to clear our names even if we jump into the Yellow River. Is there no problem, sir? I take my leave, Lord Du . Take care, sir. We are leaving the city. The first half of the road from Qingyuan County to the prefectural city is open terrain." The latter half of the route enters the hilly area, where the roads are narrow and the forests are dense. If the barbarians are going to attack, they will most likely choose the latter half. My scouts have already been deployed. Any movement within a five-mile radius should be detected in advance. Sir, the column is too long. If we are attacked, the coordination between the front and rear will be slow. I know that, so I am holding back the pace at the front. The rear should not follow too closely. If the barbarians cut off the two sides, the 200 hesitant men are our family. Everyone, be careful. All the Red Monkeys in my camp have been deployed. We will immediately enter combat mode upon their report . Report: Barbarians have been spotted ahead, less than three miles away. I estimate there are over a thousand of them, approaching us at full speed. The barbarians are attacking ! Everyone , run! Run! The government troops cannot stop them! Everyone, do not move! Surround the grain carts. All civilians must hide inside. Shield soldiers, set up shields on the outer circle. Spearmen, set up spears behind the shields. Archers, get on the roofs of the carts ! Ah! Ah! Anyone who dares to run will be killed without mercy , and their entire family will be implicated! The barbarians are attacking! Running away means certain death! " Don't panic! We'll protect you !" Thousands of men, though their formation is scattered, are charging at a rapid pace. The leading cavalrymen are at least at the Body Tempering Realm. This isn't a test; they're determined to wipe us all out. But they've chosen the worst place for a cavalry charge: a narrow road with shallow ditches on both sides. The supply wagons have already blocked half the passage. When they charge, their speed will be reduced, their momentum halved . Just hold on! After the first wave, they won't be so fierce. " Don't worry, sir! Brothers are all here! Have you noticed that this group of soldiers is different from the usual ones ? Yes! Not only did they not put us in front , but they also protected us at the very back. This is truly unprecedented! It must be because this battalion commander is leading so well. If our Great Yan had more generals like this , we wouldn't be bullied by barbarians like this. The people are watching from behind, and the soldiers are waiting for me on both sides. This battle isn't just about food ; it's about letting them know that some soldiers are trustworthy. Come on, kill!" The humans ' food is right ahead! Kill them all and steal their food! Shieldbearers in front, spearmen behind , archers prepare to fire! Our unit may be small , but if we effectively organize them into shieldbearers, swordsmen, spearmen, and archers, working together, we can unleash terrifying combat power. General Li, these barbarians seem to have no regard for their lives as they charge in. Can we really hold them off? War isn't just about savage slaughter; it's also about strategy. Barbarians are brave, fierce, and fearless, often fighting without any strategy, relying solely on sheer brute force. There's no coordination whatsoever. As long as you... "Follow my command! We will surely win this battle! Fire arrows ! Enough! Archers, fire five volleys of arrows ! By the time the barbarians charge again, they'll be nothing but remnants! So eager for battle! Today I'll let you taste the might of the Great Yan army! Charge! Slaughter them! Damn it! Follow me ! Kill them! The barbarians are coming ! Can our army hold them off? We must hold them off! We absolutely cannot let the barbarians in ! If the army can't hold them off, we will be slaughtered! The army must hold on! Yes , it's Lord Li! Lord Li has made his move! Speed, strength, reaction time —everything is a step better than half a month ago! 1% daily improvement! I don't feel it normally, but on the battlefield, I truly understand. I don't need to be much stronger than yesterday ; just a tiny bit stronger than the barbarians is enough to kill them! Ahhh! Retreat! He's not someone we can handle! Everyone retreated! But the real leader hasn't appeared yet! The barbarians have sent thousands to steal our grain!" It's impossible to just send a bunch of rabble to their deaths. The leader should be in the ranks , watching my path. This way, he can see clearly and won't accuse me of an unfair victory later. Is this even human? He 's practically a god descended from heaven! No wonder he dared to take this mission; it turns out I'm a humanoid beast! My lord is even stronger now, a whole level stronger than when we fought Black Wind Ridge last time. How did he train like this ? Die ! Oh no! It's the famous barbarian general, Huyan Bo! My lord is in danger! It 's Huyan Zhuo again! Last time I was caught off guard, but this time I'm prepared! Let me see just how much strength you have left! Everyone, charge over and support my lord! That barbarian general is at the Blood Condensation Realm! My lord won't be able to hold on! " Oh , ha ! Uh... kill! It's you again, kid! Perfect, settle all our old and new scores at once ! Ha ! This guy's strength is so much greater than in the dense forest! How is this possible ?! Damn it! If I hadn't been so arrogant and stubbornly resisted his full-force attack, I wouldn't have been so utterly defeated ! Damn it, why can't we break through them?! No! General Huyan is in danger! Quickly, provide immediate support to General Huyan ! Ah! General Huyan, at the Condensing Snow Realm, not only failed to capture a mere camp commander, but was also severely injured and on the verge of death! How is this possible ?! This is simply a fantasy! My flesh and blood actually defeated a Blood Condensing Realm general! Kill ! Quickly, take the general away! You're courting death! How can I, Li Xuancang, let go of the merit I've already gained? A master is nothing but a half-baked expert!" "Can bend the road? If you don't believe me , come and learn! Ha! Stop him! Stop him! How is it possible? He can actually catch up with my Ferghana horse ! What kind of monster is he ? Last time in the dense forest, I risked my life to defeat you. This time, let's fight head-on! Hu Yanzhuo, blame your bad luck! You've run into me two months from now! Hu Yanzhuo is dead! All barbarians who surrender will not be killed, those who flee, chase them down and kill them all! General Hu Yanzhuo is dead! Run! Kill them all! Don't let a single one escape ! Oh no! The human warriors are coming! Heh heh heh heh heh! We won! We won! Great! We've won! The barbarians have been defeated! We're safe! All troops, listen up! Do not pursue the fleeing enemy! Clean up the battlefield!" The army has returned! So many people! Are all the carts loaded with grain? How long will it last? Yes, yes, yes, it's Li the boy! That's right, it's Li the boy! He's really back! The grain has been delivered, and he's back too! But not everyone is willing to acknowledge the credit for this mission. The fiercer I fought against the barbarians, the more restless those waiting to see me fail became. Go with them to the camp gate, sir. Many of those people opposed you taking this mission last time. Let them see that with grain and life, they're not afraid of anything. Take your men and unload the grain carts at the supply depot. After you've counted them, have the manager sign off. I'm taking Xiao Niu to see Captain Zhou. That kid actually managed to... "Returning safely without encountering barbarians or demons was pure luck , hahaha! This humble general, Li Xuancang, has come to report. Fortunately, we didn't encounter any barbarians escorting the grain, and our safe return is our army's greatest victory. Look! What's that? It looks like human heads! So many heads ! Did they kill innocent people to claim credit? Killing innocent people to claim credit is common in the Great Yan Dynasty, and usually, no general would say much about it. But if Li Xuancang were like those reckless brutes who kill innocent people to claim credit, then it proves he's no different from the others. Or perhaps I misjudged him. Greetings, Captain! This humble general has successfully carried out his mission, bringing back all the grain from Qingyuan County. You've had a hard time. Did you encounter any barbarians on this journey?" "What danger? Sir, on our return journey, we encountered an ambush by thousands of barbarians. Fortunately, our soldiers fought bravely and repelled them. On our return journey, we encountered an ambush by thousands of barbarians, who massacred ordinary civilians . We impersonated barbarians to gain merit. Li Xuancang is ultimately just like those people. Commander Li, you are truly remarkable to have escaped unscathed from thousands of barbarians. Such methods are admirable. Commander Li, I wonder how you managed to escape unscathed from thousands of barbarians? Could you teach us some escape techniques? Hmph, even if you want to claim merit, you should at least make up a plausible lie. You only said thousands of barbarians attacked. If there really were thousands of barbarians, there must have been a Snow Condensation Realm expert involved. " Li Xuancang's 500 men faced thousands of barbarians and were doomed, yet they stood unharmed before everyone. Did they think everyone was a fool? Li Ying's escape methods are truly admirable; we can only look on in awe. Li Ying, could you explain in detail how you managed to escape unscathed? We didn't need to escape ; defeating the barbarians naturally led to our safe retreat. I can't stand it anymore! Li Xuancang, do you really think everyone is a fool? With thousands of barbarians attacking, how could you possibly survive? If you want to kill innocent people and claim credit , at least come up with a plausible reason. You all say I killed innocent people and claimed credit, but do I have any evidence? If I can't produce evidence , wouldn't that be slander? What will you all do then? Li Xuancang, are you truly so stubborn? If you really... "You've defeated thousands of barbarians! I'll give you my seat, alright? I, Zhang Tianhai, have never seen such a shameless person. If you truly defeated thousands of barbarians, we will apologize to you. But if you can't produce evidence , don't blame the ruthless military law for killing civilians —that's a capital offense! I, Li Xuancang, eat the people's food and drink the people's water. If I were to kill innocent people, claim credit, and harm soldiers and civilians , would I, Li Xuancang, still be human? You all want evidence? This is the evidence. Barbarians and humans are clearly different. This is a genuine barbarian. Good lad, I knew I wasn't wrong about you. Those are just a few barbarian soldiers. These heads might be from..." Even if you steal the heads of barbarian generals from any battlefield, that doesn't count . If you're so capable, show us the heads of barbarian generals! I refuse to believe you can capture a barbarian general from the Snow Condensation Realm. I don't need to introduce him; you all should know who he is, right? This man is Huyan Zhuo, the barbarian Snow Condensation Realm general who previously defeated our army several times. What? Huyan Zhuo was killed? Did I hear that right? That was a fierce general among the Snow Condensation Realm barbarians! He was actually killed by Lord Li ! Is Lord Li truly a celestial being descended to earth? Xuan Cang, how did you kill Hu Yanbo? Lord, don't be hasty, please let me explain. The above is the entire process of this battle. My lord, you are wise! Yuan Cang, you have made such a great contribution! I will certainly report the truth to the court and will never forget your merit. Thank you, my lord! Ah, these are all barbarian heads! This corpse was actually a barbarian general at the Blood Condensation Realm in life! Barbarians deserve to die! It's truly satisfying! Thanks to General Li! Our Great Yan Kingdom has really triumphed in this battle! General Li deserves to die! A Blood Condensation Realm general leading over a thousand men was defeated by a battalion commander leading only 500! We've fought the human race for years, and our tribe has never suffered such a crushing defeat. Huyan Zhuo, that good-for-nothing! He's completely disgraced us! Should we continue our attack? Order the vanguard to speed up the sweep and reach Xuan Yang County as soon as possible! I swear I will not rest until this grudge is avenged! Ah! Northern Yan warriors, follow me into Xuan Yang City! If one day we can help you enter the capital and ascend the throne, I, the king, will share the Great Yan Dynasty with you all !