Chapter 2 (1/2)

Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation

Ou Yangming was about to answer Hu Yicheng when he was suddenly moved.

‘The Military Fire?’

He looked up strangely.

On their way here, he had been guessing what post it was that made Zhang Yinfan want to seize it by force, and was willing to exchange it for the opportunity to become an official soldier. Judging from Zhang Yinfan’s stingy character, he would not have done that if he was not going to benefit.

Finally, the truth was revealed. It turned out that Old Craftsman had gotten the Military Fire for Ou Yangming instead of an official post.

When Ou Yangming recalled the mysterious flames that Old Craftsman used to fix the broken saber, his heart pumped fast and his face reddened.

Hu Yicheng turned to frown at Zhang Yinfan as he was stunned and scoffed out of discontent.

Next, Zhang Yinfan and his nephew looked at each other with the feeling that things might not be right.

He spoke with a dark face, “Ou Yangming, Sir Hu is asking you a question, answer him!”

Zhang Hanyu also expressed his impatience. “Ou Yangming, what did you promise earlier? You better think it through!” It was evident through his tone that he was threatening Ou Yangming.

Upon hearing them, Ou Yangming clenched his fists tightly and had conflicting thoughts in his head.

‘The Military Fire, it’s the Military Fire! As long as I possess it, I’ll become a real blacksmith in the Armament Camp, just like Old Craftsman.

‘Though there are many official soldiers at the camp, there are only slightly more than twenty blacksmiths who possessed the Military Fire. A normal Military Fire Blacksmith may not be an honorable position, but the fact that one possessed the Military Fire is enough to let one keep a foothold in the station.’

However, when he turned to look at Zhang Hanyu, who stared back fiercely, it was as if a pail of ice water had been poured on the burning fire in his heart, so much so that he felt like he was s.h.i.+vering in severe winter.

‘So what if I possess the Military Fire? The Armament Camp is still under the Provision Camp’s control. What should I do if Zhang Yinfan goes after me?’

Ou Yangming was drenched in sweat at that moment.

On the other hand, Zhang Hanyu gritted his teeth because a great opportunity was within reach, but the silly fellow was not saying anything. His eyes were fiery and his handsome face turned hideous as he shouted again, “Ou Yangming, give him your answer now!”

When Ou Yangming saw the hatred in his eyes, he suddenly felt cheerful.

‘I offended them the instant I hesitated, so even if I stand down now, they won’t let me off easily. Especially Zhang Hanyu, the killing intent shown through his eyes frightens me.’

In actual fact, Ou Yangming might be swayed if Zhang Hanyu were to persuade him with tactful words and offered him great benefits, but Zhang Hanyu’s strong killing intent encouraged him to be cruel.

After all, he was an orphan. While he did not have anyone to support him, it was the bit of ruthlessness and viciousness he had that helped him survive so far.

With that, he stuck his chest out and took a step forward to kowtow at Hu Yicheng. “Sir Hu, I’m willing to accept the Military Fire. I’m sure you understand.”

Zhang Yinfan’s face twitched right away. He forced himself to keep a smile on his face.

On the opposite end, Zhang Hanyu was not as shrewd. He glared at Ou Yangming with tightly clenched fists. Had Hu Yicheng not been present, he would have pounced on Ou Yangming to tear his heart apart.

Hu Yicheng cleared his throat. “Sir Zhang, you heard him.” He then waved his hand. “Since you brought him here, I’ll be carrying out my duty.”

Zhang Yinfan bowed at him and responded, “Yes, I’ll be making a move then.” Next, he glanced at Ou Yangming and remarked, “Ou Yangming, you’re very good, you’re indeed an outstanding talent in the Armament Camp.” His tone was calm yet cold.

Following that, he quickly left with Zhang Hanyu.

Ou Yangming was having mixed feelings at that moment because he knew that he offended Zhang Yinfan, but it was too late to regret.

Hu Yicheng shook his head and looked at the young man pitifully as if he could foresee his impending misery. Nevertheless, it had nothing to do with him, and he only needed to execute his duty.

He lifted his hand to retrieve a badge. “Ou Yangming, this is a Military Fire Badge. Guide yourself by sticking it on your forehead.”

Ou Yangming was startled. “That, that’s it?”

Hu Yicheng nodded slowly. “The wonders of a Military Fire Badge are beyond your imagination, just do it.”

Sure enough, receiving the Military Fire was a great opportunity, but it did not mean much to a figure like Hu Yicheng. Besides, having angered Zhang Yinfan, it was uncertain if Ou Yangming could survive. Thus, Hu Yicheng was not going to a.s.sociate himself with him.

Ou Yangming accepted the Military Fire Badge carefully, then placed it on his forehead.

The metal used to forge the Military Fire Badge was unknown and it felt ice-cold when he stuck it on, but burning energy that seemed capable of destroying Heaven and destructing Earth quickly surged into his head.