5 Inferno (1/2)

As the two clashed, the two armies also collided and both sides experienced heavy casualties. The Crown Prince Xin rallied his troops and charged once again.

Several brigands were trampled to death by his horse while a dozen fell to his efficient swordplay. The battle had raged on for quite some time and sweat began to acc.u.mulate on his forehead.

This was the first time he had utilized his power ever since he hid in the country of Zin. He was silently and unknowingly sent to Zin when his father had became aware of the fact that his uncle was plotting against him with plans to usurp the throne. As he resided in the Tan Palace, his studious behavior and willingness to a.s.sist had allowed him to establish friendly relations with their royal family. The harmony was so conspicuous that people felt they were one family and began to include Xin when it came to discussions on royalty. The first night, he had arrived, to his surprise, the royal family had asked about Riri. He had often doted on Riri and always felt that their affection for each other was greater than the typical sibling relations.h.i.+p.

Deciding to confide to him, the Royal Family of Zin confessed that Riri was actually their long-lost daughter. This information relieved Xin greatly and he yearned to reunite with her. However his uncle had usurped the throne and the Army of Zin had to deal with other invading countries.

In order to rescue Riri, Xin immediately focused on studying war tactics, politics, and began to train himself. As he was basically a part of the royal family already, many people heard of him and his diligence caused him to become famous.

The handsome Crown Prince of Nan who devoted his time and effort to overthrow the corrupt Emperor. Due to his looks, he had many suitors and was offered many proposals. He had rejected them all though as the memory of Riri had always resurfaced and a feeling of longing lingered.

One day, he had unlocked the atavism of his bloodline. The power of Dragon Blood flowed through his veins and strengthened his physique considerably while granting great abilities. Dragon's Roar would cause a shockwave which would blast enemies and rally troops. Tempered Hide which would cover his skin in dragon scales. Lizard Fangs which would morph his hands into claws that could dent steel.

”Did you hear? Great General Lanye has returned to the Capital of Nan”, a servant began gossiping to an attendant.

”I heard he had left due to discontent with the Emperor so it is quite strange that he is back”

Xin began to rejoice. He could ally with Lanye and then the both of them could take down his uncle. He was about to plan further ahead when the servant continued.

”They say he has brought the Crown Prince with him and that the Crown Prince has lost his memories”

Xin was shocked. Someone had dare impersonate him? Wouldn't that be the equivalent of suicide as it would severely threaten the Emperor's position?

Xin immediately stopped eavesdropping. He made his presence known and began interrogating the servant.

It turned out that Lanye had brought with him a man named Shen who resembled Xin. Even Princess Riri had thought that Shen was Xin and they became friends.

Xin's heart had felt like someone had just hammered it. Since Shen was not the actual Crown Prince and she thought that they were siblings, their relations.h.i.+p might become genuine and Xin might be forgotten. He felt that he had to prevent this from happening and claim Riri before Shen did.

He was already ready to send an envoy to Nan when Shen had sent a message.

Dear The True Crown Prince,

When are you retaking the throne? Everyone thinks I want to but I can't be bothered to govern nations. I have been tutoring your lover on politics so she will be fit for your engagement. If you do not act within the next 4 months, I will begin taking measures against you

Xin's eyes widened. Somehow this Shen not only knew who he was but also how to contact him. He must be a complicated character with great schemes. This made him wary and he began to tarry when it came to the decision. After 3 months he had finally decided to accede and informed Shen via letter.

A week later while he was entering his chambers to rest, he had heard a m.u.f.fled clamor next to the window. He opened it to find someone who resembled him holding a human-shaped bag.

Xin froze. They nearly looked like twins with minor differences. Shen had sharper features and his eyes had always seemed mysterious while Xin had a broader face and paler lips.

The person threw the bag towards him before immediately vanis.h.i.+ng. Fearing that the person inside would be hurt, he caught the bag by using his body as a cus.h.i.+on. To his surprise, it was Riri who adorably struggled before noticing Xin.

”Brother Xin?”, she inquired wistfully yet hopefully.

He immediately embraced Riri, having reunited with her at last.

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Brandis.h.i.+ng a steel sword he had looted from a dead brigand, Shen charged at Lanye. Their blades clashed and sparks flew, as the two struggled to gain the upper hand.

Lanye raised his knee to harm Shen's s.h.i.+n which he deflected via a hard blow with his elbow. Both staggered from the impact before rus.h.i.+ng towards each other once again.

The two swung and stabbed to no avail as the stalemate continued. It reminded Lanye of the times when the two had sparred in the woods. They would fight until the wooden swords, Shen crafted became frayed and splintered.

As the duel continued, Lanye began to push back Shen as his experience and skill were a level above Shen's. Shen was also quite skilled but he was lacking when it came to the 20 years of swordplay experienced by the Great General.

Shen grimaced as the poison continued through his system and began to inhibit his dexterity. Not only was his skill holding him back but now the poison had finally affected him.