Vol 9 Chapter 38 (1/2)

VOLUME 9 CHAPTER 38: DON’T TELL ME THIS IS THE DEPLOYMENT TO XINYE (5)

Li Dian POV

As we entered the city, I found that this city was a good city indeed.

The citizens seemed to not want for anything and got along well. The markets were very busy indeed and there were crowds of people and stalls. As we traversed the city from north to east, we pa.s.sed through perhaps 7-8 streets and there were only 3 constables we met. Looks like public safety is good here.

I wonder who the last Administrator was, to be able to govern this place so well. Perhaps it has something to do with the nature of the city’s inhabitants and the city’s resources.

I also have to thank the Jing state Governor for not ever coming north. If it were not for his weakness and focus on defence, this place would have been covered in ash and blood.

“We’re here.”

Ahead of us was a residential building. It did not seem very wide but from the architecture of the neighbouring buildings, it seemed to extend a fair bit to the back.

“This is?”

“This house used to belong to a trading merchant.” The colonel answered, “I heard that during the Yellow Turban Rebellion, the trading merchant and his family were killed and this property ended up in state hands.”

“I see.” Cao Ren said as she frowned, seeming a little sad.

From my point of view, it seems reasonable that a trading merchant would end up like that. Engaging in arbitrage during times of peace is still alright and no one will find fault with them. But during troubled times, everyone from merchants to craftsmen to farmers will be impoverished and profit for one can mean survival for the other.

Now that I think about it, if I had continued with my studies, what would I be like now?

“Lord Li Dian, let us enter.”

“Alright.” I said as Cao Ren and I dismounted and handed the reins to the colonel.

“Ah, Lord Cao Ren.” I suddenly got the feeling that we ought to be a little more cautious and called out to Cao Ren, “Bring your weapons.”

“Ah? Ah… Un.” Cao Ren did not get it but she still obediently took her weapons. Speaking of weapons, both Cao Ren and I use the same type of weapons – Spears – except that I have a sword hanging by my waist as well.

“2 weapons?” Cao Ren asked when she noticed this.

“Yes,” I nodded, “But though I have 2 weapons, I can only use 1 at a time as only my right arm has sufficient strength. My left hand isn’t strong enough to wield a weapon on its own.”

I wonder if Cao Ren is prepared for the discussions later, I thought as I handed my horse to the colonel and peered into the house.

The first thing that came into view was a screen wall that blocked the way in almost entirely. Looks like this house is at least 4-5 layers deep.

“Let’s go.”

“Ah.” Cao Ren said as she tidied her clothing and headed inside. Looking at her, I found that her smile was a lot stiffer than before. Looks like she still has a way to go before reaching my lord’s level.

As I thought so, I followed Cao Ren into the house. Looking about, I found that every room was well furnished. I wonder if there is a study somewhere. If we have any free time, I would like to see if there is anything to read.

“By the way, they didn’t come out to welcome us huh?”

“Welcome?” I laughed inside at Cao Ren’s words as I continued, “Why would Yuan Shao’s generals welcome Cao Cao’s generals?”

Our relations.h.i.+p is not good at all. This is something well know within and without of the Imperial Cou

rt.

… But… This is a little strange.

“Lord Cao Ren, please wait here for a moment.” I hurried forward and stopped Cao Ren and then raised my spear.

Something is weird here. If we continue walking ahead, we will come to the last layer of rooms. Normally, when one hosts guests or holds a meeting, it will happen in the 2nd or 3rd layers. Yet, we are now at the 5th or 6th layer and we have not seen them.

“Something’s not right here.” Though Cao Ren detected this late, it was not too late for her to be alert, “They didn’t state where they would be at and they have not yet greeted us. It’s like…”

Cao Ren’s eyebrows creased as she said so and her expression grew worse. I know what Cao Ren wants to say. She thinks we are in a trap.

This courtyard we are currently in is really narrow and deep, in short, a perfect place to set up an ambush.

“So what exactly are they up to?” Cao Ren said as she looked about, ready to attack anytime. I, on the other hand, was more a.s.sertive and went to the plants and shrubbery where I lightly slashed about before checking for any attackers.

“Lu Kuang!!”

Un?! Just then, a yell came from the main hall at the end.