At this moment, a General from the Zhao Army made a promise, which raised the worst-case scenario that Meng Wu and Wang Jian had initially considered to a whole new level. The Ancient People valued their promises, especially when made in front of so many witnesses. In such circumstances, if someone were to go back on their word, they would likely become a laughingstock for generations.
Wang Jian hesitated for the first time in the face of the enemy. Seeing that the opposing side did not take this opportunity to launch an attack, he retracted his preparatory movements. This was a significant matter, and he did not dare to make decisions on his own. After all, the current General was General Meng; there had to be some rules in place.
The conversation between the two was not whispered; given the surrounding silence, everyone present could hear it clearly. Just as Wang Jian was about to ask the Zhao General to wait a moment, he heard a response from the crowd.
"Alright! A promise made is hard to retract! We will listen to him! But it’s not us who will leave; it’s them!"
As the crowd parted, a figure dressed as a commoner appeared, leading his Superior Steed, the Seven Star Black Steed, into the arena. Wang Jian recognized the voice immediately and felt a chill run down his spine upon seeing his relative. Given how precarious their situation was, how could they have brought someone here voluntarily?
Realizing something was amiss, Wang Jian hurriedly approached Luzi without consulting Meng Wu about this major issue and shouted, "Who is this mountain villager? Can’t you see we are in the middle of a battle!? Do you think this is just a play? Hurry up and leave!"
Hearing Luzi's tone, which was similar to that of the Qin Army Commander, Must Be felt a shock. However, seeing that he was dressed as a commoner only fueled his anger into laughter. After years of warfare, these common folks had become indifferent to the seriousness of battle!
Luzi laughed heartily at Wang Jian's agitation. Behind this general stood tens of thousands of elite Qin Army soldiers; even if they were old-fashioned... they could still fight! He handed the reins of the Seven Star Black Steed to Wang Jian and then took off his Qin State long sword and hung it at Wang Jian's waist. Looking around cautiously, he whispered, "No horse? Not even my General's Sword? If I am like this, wouldn’t it be embarrassing? Now that it has returned to its rightful owner, take it and establish your legacy!"
Wang Jian recognized this sword; it was one he had personally gifted to Luzi during his time in Chu. On the surface, it looked like any other Qin State long sword, but it was unique. It had been forged by the patriarch of a legendary family during their time in the Northwest.
The elderly patriarch had forged only two swords over more than six months. One was extravagantly decorated and intended as a gift for King Zhao of Qin; the other was the one Luzi held—plain and unadorned.
The two swords were not as rumored by outsiders to be male and female swords. Both were made from high-quality materials sourced from a single ore deposit, using identical forging techniques and lengths. It was merely coincidence that they had obtained enough ore to forge two swords.
If intended as tribute for the Qin King, this sword would be called an Imperial Sword. If outsiders knew there were two such swords meant for one Lord of the Nation, those who were not Sovereigns would face dire consequences if they came into possession of one.
For this reason, Wang Jian did not share this secret with anyone. As a result, Luzi remained unaware of the complex backstory behind it and still believed that this sword was just like any other long sword from the Qin State.
The elder who forged this sword had likely passed away long ago. Due to an earlier promise, Wang Jian never had the chance to return and seek out that lost family. This situation arose after he married a woman from a legendary family, as this was a prerequisite for their union. He had no desire to engage in worldly affairs and was already weary of deceit; how could he possibly come out to support anyone in raising smoke signals?
Wang Jian, full of secrets, had never spoken before and was even less likely to reveal anything now. He quickly stated that he was merely borrowing it and would return it immediately after use. Seeing that Luzi did not raise any objections, he mounted his horse and raised the short spear in his hand.
If Must Be had thought that the suddenly appearing outsider was a commoner, upon seeing Luzi reveal his General's Sword, he realized that this individual was a standard Qin Army commander. If he guessed correctly, he should be a high-ranking official from the Qin State.
Luzi did not care about the predatory gazes around him because that term did not exist in his world. Looking up at the imposing Wang Jian, he softly said, "Defeat him! If you do, I will not hold you or Meng Wu accountable!"
Luzi was always cautious in his actions and never boasted. This could be understood now; the main force of the Qin Army had already stationed outside! Realizing this, Wang Jian felt a huge weight lift from his heart and quietly asked, "Alive or dead?"
Upon hearing this, Luzi smiled slightly. "You really intend to kill him? Alive will do!"
"Understood!"
With a sense of relief, Wang Jian agreed and urged his horse forward toward the Zhao General.
The Seven Star Black Steed was born for war, and with the best efforts of Sima Guan and Sun Thirteen from the Sun Family, it became an exceptional companion for generals. Since following Luzi, he had never had such an opportunity to showcase his talents until today. Just when he thought he would never find a place to display his skills due to unfortunate circumstances, he finally encountered one. With so many people watching, it felt exhilarating. He trotted along with a light step, almost barely touching the ground.
At this moment, Luzi was being protected by numerous Qin Soldiers; he saw everything but felt anger inside. "Hey! This beast! Did you think following me would be easy? Hmm! I'll send you to suffer under Wang Jian later; let's see what you have to say then!"
The finest horses in the world are proud creatures, which is why people often compare superior steeds to dragon steeds. This is not only because they possess an innate dragon aura but also because they are good friends of humanity.
Wang Jian's steed also belonged to a fine breed of horses, but it depended on whom it was compared to. At this moment, riding on the Seven Star Black Steed, he felt an overwhelming sense of pride. His right hand, which held the weapon, was sweating, and he felt a surge of energy rising within him. He was knowledgeable about horses but suppressed the urge to ask Luzi for a warhorse later. No matter how good the horse was, it belonged to General Lu! Besides, this was a gift from Chuchu to his beloved; how could he take someone else's cherished possession?
As a member of the Tiger General, Must Be certainly recognized fine horses as well. Watching the agile movements of the Seven Star Black Steed in the firelight brought tears to his eyes. Heaven was truly unfair! Why were all the good things in his Qin State? Seeing such a fine horse made him toss aside that so-called map and approach with the reins in hand.
"If I win, you will leave your warhorse behind, and all Qin Army will leave Great King Village! If you win, my Zhao Army will never disturb you again!"
Since you have stated your conditions, then I agree! Wang Jian nodded and, as the warhorse shifted its stance, they clasped hands to seal the agreement.
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