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墨書 Inktalez
Life is always full of ups and downs, much like the winding path of the Dune. After one journey's scenery, there must be new characters for the next, with separations and reunions being the essence of life.
Those who have left are ultimately gone; what can those who remain do but reminisce?
Flower Snow Moon and Mu Shu emerged from the prison, where the stale air had been suffocating. Now, as they inhaled the fresh scent of freedom, both girls felt a surge of greed for this newfound vitality.
Taking in a few deep breaths of the crisp air beneath the blue and white clouds, they waited for their emotions to settle. It was time to discuss serious matters.
Jufeng turned to Mu Shu and said, "Although you came to find me, the fate of the Unification Alliance is not something I can decide alone. Regardless of how the outside world perceives me, I am merely the leader of a storm, and my vendetta against Mu Zhongde is solely my own. My part in this is over. Ultimately, your fate must be written by Hua Gang."
With that, Jufeng fell silent, prompting Mu Shu to look at Flower Snow Moon. She understood that the power to restore Hua Gang lay in this woman's hands. This ethereal beauty, who was around her age, had always been an object of her admiration—a true heroine and undoubtedly the foremost figure in modern Huaguo.
Mu Shu aspired to reach such heights in the future, perhaps even surpass them.
Facing Flower Snow Moon, Mu Shu's tone softened considerably, unlike her cold demeanor towards Jufeng. "Irin King," she began gently, "the harm caused by the Unification Alliance to Hua Gang was ultimately instigated by Mu Zhongde alone. His arrogance has led to his downfall. The Unification Alliance I govern has severed ties with him. Therefore, I hope that you can allow us to continue existing as a gesture of goodwill between our long-standing factions. We are willing to atone for our past."
In truth, gang conflicts rarely adhere to notions of guilt or innocence; it is merely those who instigate wars who end up bearing the blame when they fail to emerge victorious. History has shown that once nations engage in warfare, others follow suit.
However, Mu Shu's earnest attitude made it easy for Jufeng to believe her words and consider giving her a chance.
Had he decisively rejected her earlier, Hua Gang's stance would have mattered little.
Flower Snow Moon regarded this girl who seemed fresh out of school with a sense of fondness. She was neither flirtatious nor common; she understood her worth and maintained a serene mindset—no wonder Wind held her in such high regard.
Despite Hua Gang's deep-seated enmity towards the Unification Alliance—having suffered greatly from its previous annihilation—the ongoing war had left everyone weary. The revived Hua Gang did not wish to continue fighting. Even though the Unification Alliance faced imminent destruction, eradicating it completely would not be an easy task accomplished overnight with mere soldiers. After discussions with Elder Yuan and Yu Jianyuan, Flower Snow Moon decided to let things be for now.
Allowing some time for everyone to recuperate while keeping a close watch on the Unification Alliance would suffice. When Hua Gang regained its strength, even if the Unification Alliance plotted again, they would not fall into the same trap.
Yet despite this reasoning, she could not easily let go of this opportunity for extortion; Jufeng had risked everything for this final victory and deserved some compensation.
Thus, she passed the ball back into Jufeng's court.
"Miss Mu, I hear you are to become the next leader of the Unification Alliance. That is truly a matter worth congratulating. The mistakes made by Mu Zhongde are his own to repay. However, the destructive capabilities of your three hundred offerings are simply too strong. If Feng Shao does not reclaim some interest, it would be quite unreasonable, wouldn't you agree?"
Flower Snow Moon turned her head with a playful smile towards Jufeng, revealing a rare hint of mischief. Jufeng noticed this and couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration; even the usually stern king seemed to enjoy teasing others.
Mu Shu turned her head back, facing Jufeng without the slightest softness she had shown towards Flower Snow Moon. She said flatly, "I have already agreed to be your woman, so I hope Feng Shao can show some leniency."
Jufeng had encountered many women since his rise to prominence; he was no stranger to the world of romance. Yet, he couldn't help but find Mu Shu to be uniquely captivating among them. She wasn't beautiful or enchanting, nor was she purely sweet and innocent, but there was a certain bitterness about her, reminiscent of wild chrysanthemums.
It's a pity I'm not a sentimental person; otherwise, having you by my side as a warm companion wouldn't be such a bad idea.
Feigning deep thought, Jufeng finally spoke, "I don't lack for women, so your condition isn't particularly compelling. I've heard that the Hall of Offerings in the Unification Alliance not only offers Ascetics but also many legendary weapons. I am more inclined towards Snow Clear; I hope Miss Mu Shu can show some generosity and allow that famed sword to be paired with a hero."
Jufeng's statement was quite narcissistic; if Zhu Yao were present, she would undoubtedly roll her eyes at him. Unfortunately, Flower Snow Moon found it amusing and didn't take it seriously, while Mu Shu had lost her mood entirely.
The Snowy Dawn Sword was a legendary weapon closely associated with ancient Taoism; its philosophy of natural law truly suited Liu Xing.
Mu Shu lowered her head, weighing the pros and cons—more specifically, assessing whether her influence was sufficient to persuade the Hall of Offerings to part with such a treasure.
After a moment, Mu Shu raised her head slightly and nodded, "No problem. However, Feng Shao must allow me two days away from your side; I cannot handle this matter personally."
Jufeng nodded in satisfaction but then shook his head again. "Why should I allow you two days? Does my woman need to be by my side at all times? You can manage your role as the leader of the Unification Alliance in the northwest; it will also help keep your subordinates in check and prevent them from doing foolish things. I'll wait here for you; once Snow Clear is brought back, our negotiations will be considered complete."
Upon hearing this, Mu Shu fell silent for a moment. She found herself conflicted about being a woman and continuing as the leader of the Unification Alliance; it seemed contradictory from the perspective of an ordinary man.
Seeing Mu Shu lower her head again, Jufeng suddenly felt inspired and walked over to her side. He gently ran his fingers through her ponytail, causing her to tense up at this unexpected gesture.
Leaning slightly closer to Mu Shu's ear, Jufeng whispered with warm breath, "I hope you will be a virtuous woman. If I discover any infidelity or promiscuity on your part, I won't show any mercy."
Mu Shu's body stiffened at his words. Only after Jufeng slowly stepped back did she realize her palms were already sweaty. After contemplating for a moment longer, she took her leave; the headquarters of the Unification Alliance was in the northwest, making it more convenient for her to retrieve the sword.
Meanwhile, Jufeng rested in the vast desert landscape. He was familiar with various leaders from Hua Gang and celebrated their victory almost all night long amidst cheers and festivities. Embracing the rugged customs of the northwest, they drank heartily and feasted on meat until they were thoroughly intoxicated.
The following afternoon, Mu Shu returned to this place once again, bringing with him a sword. With the intentions of Jufeng's journey to the northwest fulfilled, he prepared to head back home.
After three months of counteroffensive battles, it could finally be said that the curtain had truly fallen. Over these three months, blood had flowed endlessly, and countless bones lay scattered; it was impossible to count how much manpower, resources, and wealth had been wasted. This was the cruelty of the Underworld; those who survived were left only with their reflections, while those who had departed left behind varying degrees of memories.
Hua Gang escorted Mu Zhongde back to the capital. Hebei Province was originally Hua Gang's stronghold, and they gradually returned their forces to the headquarters area.
Xue Ze and his Brothers headed straight back to Washing City, their home, naturally celebrating their triumph and longing for a glorious return.
However, defeat carries its own sorrow, and victory brings its own troubles. How would the vast territory conquered by the two factions be divided after the war?
This was a festering issue that had lingered since the time in Kru Province; with old ailments unhealed, they now emerged to cause annoyance.
(To be continued)
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