Chapter 0053: A Good Sleep

Chapter 0053: A Good Sleep

There is a book called *The Adventures of Tom Sawyer*, where the main character, lazy to paint a fence, pretends he loves doing it. This piques the curiosity and rebelliousness of his friends, ultimately leading them to do his work for free.

This is similar to Zhang Biezhi's journey. Despite his sister and brother-in-law repeatedly admonishing him not to look down on others, he never listened. But today, Xiao Rong took the opposite approach, encouraging him to despise himself, emphasizing that he must. Suddenly, Zhang Biezhi realized what his sister and brother-in-law were trying to teach him—that this was truly embarrassing. Not only were the onlookers laughing at him, but even Xiao Rong, whom he had looked down upon, never took him seriously.

*The Adventures of Tom Sawyer* tells the story of a group of children, while Zhang Biezhi, though an adult, might have a mental age lower than those in the book. Jian Qiao has suffered unjustly over the years, and if he could see this, he wouldn't be so infuriated every time he returned home. ...

Today was a special day for Zhang Biezhi because his worldview was shaken. If Xiao Rong were merciful, he should let him go back and digest the new information overnight. However, that was impossible.

Seeing Zhang Biezhi not responding, Xiao Rong noticed a subtle change in his expression: "What, you don't want to?"

Zhang Biezhi hesitated for a second, his face gradually turning red: "How can I possibly agree when you're making a fool out of me?!"

Xiao Rong listened and suddenly laughed: "Stop flattering yourself."

Zhang Biezhi: "..."

Tomorrow they would reach Jinling, yet Zhang Biezhi was acting up. Xiao Rong immediately unleashed his criticism: "Monkeys trained for a few months can perform, and people cheer for them when they tumble. You've been in the army for years; have you done anything worth cheering for? You eat more than a monkey and use more expensive things. If possible, I'd trade you for a hundred monkeys and start a circus. At least then I could sell tickets. Sadly, no merchant would make a losing deal."

Zhang Biezhi: "........"

Xiao Rong's casual tone left him red-faced and speechless. He couldn't respond with the same eloquence, only glaring angrily: "You actually insulted me!"

Xiao Rong's gaze pierced Zhang Biezhi like a needle, making him instinctively step back.

Even Qu Yunmie would feel fear from that stare. ...

Xiao Rong stared intently at Zhang Biezhi before abruptly standing up: "I said stop flattering yourself; you're not even worthy of my insults! This trip to Jinling must succeed. Listen carefully, Zhang Biezhi."

He menacingly repeated Zhang Biezhi's name, stepping closer. The distance between them shortened as Xiao Rong coldly looked into Zhang Biezhi's eyes, scaring him breathless.

"—If you dare ruin my plans, I won't care whose brother-in-law you are. Even if you were Qu Yunmie's grandfather, I'll make sure you die in Jinling! Don't believe me? Try it and see how I can kill without spilling blood."

Zhang Biezhi: "........"

Usually, he wouldn't believe such threats, but Xiao Rong's demeanor was terrifying. Plus, the twenty guards outside were all Qu Yunmie's personal soldiers. Zhang Biezhi had no doubt that if they fought, those guards would draw their swords and help Xiao Rong kill him. ... His life was truly miserable.

When he betrayed in history, many factors influenced him, such as Qu Yunmie's stubbornness, his conflicts with Jian Qiao, and his belief that it was just a farce. Initially, it seemed like a joke, but only he treated it as one, while everyone else took it seriously.

Now, none of these factors were present. Moreover, Zhang Biezhi was merely foolish, not cruel. Qu Yunmie was genuinely warlike and enjoyed personally eliminating evil. Zhang Biezhi only bullied people and had only taken lives in small-scale battles, killing fewer than ten enemies.

So when Xiao Rong got serious, Zhang Biezhi cowered. His blinking sped up, revealing his nervousness. After a moment of silence, he subtly retreated and muttered: "Fine, I'll do it."

He tried to leave, but Xiao Rong narrowed his eyes and stopped him: "Wait."

Xiao Rong asked: "How will you do it? Show me here."

Before being called out, Zhang Biezhi's actions were natural, but now they might become stiff. Xiao Rong wasn't satisfied until he performed adequately in front of him.

Thus, Zhang Biezhi was tormented until late that night.

Even his smile was criticized, increasing his resentment. Eventually, his anger surpassed his fear, and he passed.

Zhang Biezhi: "..."

After traveling all day the previous day and sleeping only two hours that night, Zhang Biezhi emerged from his room with dark circles under his eyes, harboring more resentment than the day before.

However, seeing Xiao Rong sitting listlessly at the table, Zhang Biezhi remembered that Xiao Rong stayed up as long as he did. When he left, Xiao Rong didn't sleep but sat at his desk, writing something.

Apart from being handsome, intelligent, and having an extraordinary aura, Xiao Rong was also known for his frail health.

Even Zhang Biezhi, strong as a calf, couldn't handle the continuous strain, let alone someone who frequently fell ill and sometimes even vomited blood.

But Xiao Rong endured without complaint, rising earlier than Zhang Biezhi and urging him to eat breakfast quickly before leaving.

Sharing hardships strengthens loyalty among subordinates. Although Zhang Biezhi was far from loyal to Xiao Rong, his resentment diminished somewhat. He sat down obediently and ate at lightning speed.

Xiao Rong: "..."

Eating eight pancakes, he witnessed firsthand what it meant to be a growing boy with a voracious appetite.

Xiao Rong's complexion was indeed poor, which he noticed too. This time, it wasn't Qu Yunmie's fault but due to recent exhaustion. Yet, he had just arrived in Huaiyin, far from the time to rest. Ah Shu worriedly suggested hiring a carriage for the remaining hundred miles, ensuring they would still arrive today, albeit later.

While Ah Shu spoke, the others watched silently, sharing his concern but waiting for Xiao Rong's decision.

After careful consideration, Xiao Rong decided to ride a horse.

It wasn't about time; arriving a couple of hours later wouldn't matter much. Rather, he needed to maintain his pale appearance.

He hadn't visited Jinling before. Last time, he passed through its outskirts from Wujun. Over the past days, he learned that the nobles there were all looks-conscious, favoring a delicate, almost fragile appearance.

A few months ago, Xiao Rong didn't need to pretend; he could have made a grand entrance naturally. Since moving to Chenliu, however, he rarely fell ill, proving that without Qu Yunmie's interference, his health improved swiftly.

Even if he were fine, he would still feign illness, but nothing beats genuine fragility for eliciting sympathy. With only a few days in Jinling, this first impression was crucial.

Xiao Rong made the decision, and others could only follow. However, seeing Xiao Rong's unsteady appearance, even Zhang Biezhi worried that he might fall off his horse at any moment.

They had set out from Huaiyin City at the second hour of dawn and arrived outside Jinling by midday. Looking at the grand city gates, Xiao Rong's gaze slightly narrowed.

The ancient capital began from this moment. Although others had previously established their capitals in Jinling, none had been as wealthy or powerful as the rulers of the Yong Dynasty. Emperor Guangjia had reduced his own kingdom to half its size, yet he remained immensely rich. Upon reaching Jinling, his first act was to reinforce the city defenses, pouring vast sums of money into it every year. The Huai River served as their natural barrier, already difficult to breach, while the several-zhang-wide walls provided another layer of defense.

Emperor Guangjia fortified the city defenses because he feared death, but he still died. Sun Renluan continued to strengthen the defenses with clearer intentions; it was part of his strategic layout. In case of any issues, they would fight a siege battle. Jinling was prosperous and well-supplied; after clearing the surrounding area, they could hold out for at least five years. During these five years, they could sustain themselves within the capital, while the enemy would struggle with such a prolonged campaign.

In ancient warfare, especially distant campaigns, few lasted more than two months. Once two months passed, they had to retreat due to insufficient supplies. This was also why Qu Yunmie decided to return in October when formulating his plan to attack the Xianbei. No matter how talented he was, he couldn't solve the problem of inadequate provisions.

Thus, the Southern Yong court had good reason to fear Qu Yunmie—not just because of his extraordinary martial prowess or the large number of troops under his command, but also because he controlled the other side of the Huai River. Siege battles could restrain the barbarians, but not an enemy so close.

However, historically, when Qu Yunmie entered the Southern Yong palace, there was almost no resistance. He managed to do it in just one month. Was it because he was truly that formidable, breaking through the city gates directly? Not really; someone made a foolish mistake.

The law of conservation of energy applies everywhere. If history had ten thousand wise men, it also had ten thousand fools. The former provided thrilling and adrenaline-pumping rivalries, while the latter offered top-tier comedy, shattering people's worldviews.

The security situation in Jinling was better than in Huaiyin City. At least here, they didn't let him enter without asking questions. Although the guards were respectful, they politely requested his documents, explaining that they would only take a quick look, not doubting his identity.

Xiao Rong: "…"

He glanced at Ah Shu, who understood and took out Xiao Rong's documents and seal from the bag. These were newly minted. Previously, his documents bore the name Xiao Rong, but after leaving New Peace, he had them replaced by a county magistrate, paying extra to change the name to his own. As for the current set, they bore the seal of the Northern Pacification King, far more prestigious than those stamped by a county magistrate.

As for the seal, it was hastily made. There had never been a position like Chenliu Yin before, so they didn't know what the seal should look like. Finally, Xiao Rong decided to create a new design, regardless of what others did. From now on, whoever became Chenliu Yin would use this seal.

If anyone laughed at it, hadn't they heard the saying "victors write the history"? Once they became legitimate, they could stamp a sacred scarab on the seal, and others would have to praise it.

Taking the unfamiliar seal, the guard was puzzled about what official position it represented. Then, he heard Xiao Rong, sitting on his horse, calmly say, "Please inform the emperor and the Grand Marshal that Chenliu Yin Xiao Rong has come with a personal letter from the Northern Pacification King."

Initially, the guard didn't understand what Chenliu Yin meant. Did this young master call himself Chenliu Yin?

Remembering the recent uproar over the Northern Pacification King's relocation, the guard dropped the seal.

Xiao Rong: "…"

The characters on the seal were engraved in gold, not cheap at all!

Under Xiao Rong's reproachful gaze, the guard nervously picked up the seal, stammering apologies as he retreated to find his superior.

The news then passed from one superior to another until it reached the Southern Yong palace.

Sun Renluan was holding a meeting with officials when he heard that Xiao Rong had arrived. They fell silent for a moment, then the entire court erupted in discussion.

It had been over half a month since the Northern Pacification King's relocation. Jinling's officials, initially unable to accept it, had become numb. Despite their anger, they realized their discussions were futile.

They dared not start a war, especially given the current situation. Qu Yunmie's army had been inactive for too long. Trained for so long, they were meant to attack others, not become substitutes for the Xianbei.

Whether through war or negotiation, psychological warfare was key. All military strategies emphasized disrupting the opponent's mind. Supply lines and shortening campaigns were instinctive to most commanders.

Sun Renluan handled this well, knowing it wasn't the time for a north-south conflict. Thus, he remained calm upon learning that Xiao Rong had arrived with a personal letter from the Northern Pacification King. Though surprised, he guessed Xiao Rong wasn't bringing bad news.

Scouts reported that Qu Yunmie was vigorously developing Chenliu, behaving inexplicably. He was very close to this scholar named Xiao Rong, sometimes even going out for tea together.

Like others familiar with Qu Yunmie, Sun Renluan believed his changes came from external influences. Initially, he kept the highest vigilance towards Xiao Rong, as only he seemed capable of influencing Qu Yunmie to this extent.

But Xiao Rong had come to Jinling.

Alone? With only a few dozen guards and an unknown young general, truly young, reportedly not even of age.

This perplexed Sun Renluan. After the Northern Pacification King's relocation and Yu Shaocheng's defection, relations between the north and south were tense. Yet, Qu Yunmie sent this Chenliu Yin alone to Jinling without sufficient protection. Didn't he fear something happening to him?

Something felt wrong. Unusual events often indicated hidden motives. There must be reasons he didn't know.

Sun Renluan immediately convened an emergency meeting, dismissing the officials he considered incompetent and keeping his confidants and some respected officials, including Yang Zangyi.

They discussed for a long time, but Xiao Rong hadn't even entered the palace. Their brains were overheating, yet they still couldn't determine why he had come.

After waiting outside the city for nearly an hour, someone finally came to receive them, not to escort them into the palace but to a temporary residence. When they would enter the palace depended on the Grand Marshal's arrangements.

It was summer, and there was no shade outside the city. The twenty or so people stood in the sun, and once Xiao Rong revealed his identity, the guards increased, watching them nervously without letting them in.

Thus, when the receptionist arrived, Zhang Biezhi predictably lost his temper.

"Is this how Jinling treats guests? Keeping visitors outside the city in the scorching sun! You're deliberately snubbing us, and snubbing us means snubbing the Northern Pacification King!"

The receptionist was sweating profusely, wiping his forehead and explaining softly, "I just received the news..."

Zhang Biezhi: "What 'I'? You're a subordinate! Don't think I don't know anything. Our Chenliu Yin is of the same rank as your Jinling Yin!"

Xiao Rong, who had ignored him earlier, suddenly coughed heavily.

Thanks to last night, Zhang Biezhi stiffened, reflexively adding, "Besides, I'm here as a general, and no civil official can surpass me!"

Xiao Rong: "…"

A bit exaggerated, but it'll do.

The receptionist's rank was indeed low. He was a zhonglang from Jinling, a position that could attend court, but Jinling had dozens of such officials.

He was sent out to take the blame.

Zhang Biezhi, clearly uneducated, cursed at the gate, making the receptionist lose face. But he dared not provoke Zhang Biezhi, having never seen the Northern Pacification Army, known for its ruthlessness.

Fortunately, not everyone was unreasonable. The Chenliu Yin was gentle, trying to calm Zhang Biezhi, who glared back and walked away angrily.

The Chenliu Yin then spoke with the receptionist. Seeing his appearance, the man almost thought he was hallucinating.

How stunningly handsome!

Oh my, look at the thin sweat on his forehead, the flushed cheeks, and his weak voice. Even Jinling's first young master pales in comparison!

Just now, Zhang Biezhi had spoken so much, and he hadn't thought there was any problem with leaving the guests out in the sun. But now, he didn't think so anymore. How could he let such a handsome young master suffer like this?

So he quickly led Xiao Rong and the others to rest. Xiao Rong listened to his concern for his health and merely gave a faint smile, then said a classic line: "It's an old ailment, nothing serious."

This made the other person even more heartbroken.

Xiao Rong took this opportunity to inquire about the situation in the palace. Although the other person didn't reveal everything, some side information still slipped out. For example, the reason they weren't receiving him was that the discussions were very intense. Also, it was unfortunate that he came today because the emperor did not hold court, so he couldn't be admitted immediately.

Doesn't the emperor usually just need to be prepared? It's always the ministers who bathe and change clothes; why should the emperor have to go through any trouble?

But this young emperor was a puppet. Sun Renluan both undermined him and yet couldn't do without him, which meant Xiao Rong couldn't apply his memories of the imperial palace to this one.

Moreover, Xiao Rong couldn't tell if they really hadn't decided or if they were intentionally keeping him waiting, hence not seeing him.

Well, whatever comes, he would deal with it. Since he couldn't enter the palace for the time being, Xiao Rong decided to take a nap. He wasn't feeling well to begin with, and now after being exposed to the sun for half an hour, he felt like he was about to get heatstroke. He needed to rest.

He went to sleep, while Zhang Biezhi, still angry at the Jinling people's attitude, wasn't feeling sleepy. Ah Shu stayed by Xiao Rong's side, partly to protect him and partly to watch over him, making sure he wouldn't suddenly run a fever as he had done before.

After all the commotion, everyone fell quiet by midday. Unnoticed by anyone, a guard sneaked out of the room while everyone else was resting. He didn't go far, just to leave a letter hidden in his sleeve in front of a pawnshop. Soon, the letter was taken away and rushed north to Yangzhou.

If Southern Yong could plant spies in Chenliu, Qu Yunmie could certainly do the same in Jinling. He never mentioned them because these spies seemed useless. He sent them to Jinling to monitor the movements of the Jinling army, but they had been so stationary for years that even his spies were bored. Getting a task like delivering a letter made them quite happy.

Qu Yunmie didn't go to the military camp in North Yangzhou but stayed near the docks. Ever since Xiao Rong left, he felt uneasy and deeply regretted agreeing to let him go alone. He really couldn't be so agreeable anymore.

While pacing back and forth in the room, the guard outside informed him that a letter from Jinling had arrived.

Upon hearing this, Qu Yunmie immediately strode out and snatched the letter from the spy whose name he had forgotten. He hastily tore it open and read it in a single glance.

Gradually, the messenger's joy faded.

Because he noticed that Qu Yunmie's expression became increasingly terrifying, until finally, he crumpled the letter into a ball, and paper shreds fell from between his fingers due to the force.

In a fit of rage, he looked across the Huai River, as if he could already see Xiao Rong sleeping soundly in the guesthouse in Jinling.

He gritted his teeth and said, "When you come back, just wait and see what I'll do to you!"

Meanwhile, Xiao Rong, in his sleep, smacked his lips. He seemed to hear a buzzing noise, which was quite annoying, so he swatted at it and turned over, continuing his peaceful slumber.

Author's note: