Nuit éternelle

Chapitre 30

Feng Xinglie sighed softly, closed his eyes and leaned against his firm, warm chest, his long eyelashes fluttering slightly: "Of course he knows you. His name is Liu Wuge. Also, his surname is actually Ling."

"Ling?" Ling Yuxiang's brows furrowed, then suddenly relaxed, as if he had thought of something, and he exclaimed in surprise, "Could he be...?"

Without another word, Feng Xinglie simply nodded in response. Ling Yuxiang, always quick-witted, could understand this, and he certainly could too. He never lied to her, so she had no reason to tell a white lie. The possibility of misunderstandings arising from the exposure of the lie was something that would never happen between them. Because they both knew that if you can't give your heart and sincerity, why should others treat you with the same sincerity?

Ling Yuxiang gazed at the direction Liu Wuge had gone, his thoughts a jumble of emotions, and for a moment he felt a pang of sadness.

"Are you blaming me? I let go of the person most likely to harm you." His silence dispelled her sorrow and made her happy. In fact, Feng Xinglie already understood the whole story, but she always wanted to hear him say it himself. She smiled, and she had to admit that she, like most women, also wanted to depend on a man and wanted to hear his sweet words.

"That person... that pained look in their eyes, that struggle yet unwillingness to give up hope, clearly having lost all hope in this world, yet still unable to stop desperately struggling, so much like you in the past..."

This wasn't an answer, but a recollection, yet Feng Xinglie felt a lump in his throat, unable to suppress the bitterness of the past. He hooked his arm around Feng Xinglie's neck, leaned against his charming face, and kissed him.

"Anything else? Don't you think I'm cruel, selfish, and... indecisive?"

"This is nothing like my narcissistic and arrogant self!" Ling Yuxiang happily touched his face, which was tickled by her kisses, while carefully observing him from head to toe.

"Hmph!" His interruption dispelled much of the suppressed sorrow. Ling Yuxiang then stroked her cheek, gazing at her tenderly and lovingly: "You! You just love to be misunderstood. But even if everyone in the world misunderstands you, I will see through it all! If we're not ruthless now, are we going to wait until he's fallen for us before delivering an even deeper blow? Making him hate us even more?"

People always prefer to explain things only when things have reached a certain point, and they are always unwilling to face the facts. But when things really come to that point, is there still room for explanation?

"Actually, you've already told him. You clearly know his identity, yet you still treat him as a friend. He's a smart man; he'll understand your intentions if he thinks about it. You told him the truth, and you repeatedly gave up opportunities to kill him. If he didn't understand, you probably wouldn't have just shown sadness. However, he doesn't hate you; he only hates me, and he hates the cruel twists of fate. He's in great pain and heartbreak right now, which is much better than him misunderstanding you later. As for the problem between him and me, it's a matter between brothers. We're both people you value, so it's only right that you don't interfere."

At this point, Ling Yuxiang frowned and became depressed again: "You're so good to him, I'm jealous."

“Fool! I’m not as good as you think. I’m a selfish person too. Didn’t you sense my murderous intent? If he had harbored hatred towards me back then, I would have killed him without hesitation, without you even needing to lift a finger.” Feng Xinglie knew very well the consequences of keeping a threat alive. She wasn’t a bodhisattva. If Liu Wuge hadn’t made her trust him, she wouldn’t have shown mercy. Feng Xinglie sighed regretfully again: “I wouldn’t have let him go like that. But he couldn’t control the hatred in his heart and gave up his trust in me. And I’ve always believed that people who don’t trust me aren’t worth saving.”

Because of her past experiences, Liu Wuge couldn't believe her in her subconscious, but it still made Feng Xinglie feel a little sad.

"Are you being silly too? I, Ling Yuxiang, don't love saints. Although you're narcissistic, arrogant, prone to overthinking, always like to ruin yourself, are obsessed with saving face, and have a strange temper and awkward personality, that's what makes you my Lie!" Ling Yuxiang smiled gently, saying words to reassure her. However, Feng Xinglie's expression changed halfway through, and she grabbed his ear and said fiercely, "Who are you calling silly?"

"Of course it's me. How could the wise and discerning Wind King make such a foolish mistake?" Ling Yuxiang said instantly, his face full of sincerity. His ability to change his expression had improved again!

The two of them inevitably took advantage of the situation to create some trouble for Qin Yue. Ling Yuxiang angrily summoned the guards and reprimanded them for trying to assassinate his beauty within their jurisdiction. The guards were terrified, which further demonstrated Ling Yuxiang's high regard for Feng Meiniang. Only after the guards patted their chests and promised to find the assassin did Ling Yuxiang carry the beauty and follow them to the villa.

This commotion revealed some clues about Hancheng's military strength. Qin Yue was furious to hear that someone dared to disregard the law even under the emperor's nose. He ordered a thorough investigation, but in reality, he was secretly investigating Ling Yuxiang and the envoys from various parties who had arrived in Hancheng. Feng Xinglie and Ling Yuxiang watched the situation from the sidelines with cold eyes.

On the second night after they settled into the villa, a figure silently slipped into Ling Yuxiang and Feng Xinglie's room under the moonlight.

Ling Yuxiang was also startled by the man's ability to hide. He only reacted after the man entered the room. He slapped out with his palm, but a blue figure flashed and several blue steel needles flew out. Ling Yuxiang's heart skipped a beat. Seeing that Feng Xinglie had no intention of making a move, he could only smile helplessly and quickly dodge away.

"Lie, when did you bring your friend here? You didn't even tell me. Aren't you afraid I'll go too far and kill him?" Ling Yuxiang said calmly, but the green figure sensed his power. His movement technique was far superior to Ling Yuxiang's. If they fought head-on, it wouldn't be difficult for Ling Yuxiang to kill him.

Feng Xingwang covered his mouth and chuckled: "Do you think everyone I train is as upright as Ye Piao and the others? Sui Feng and the others have spent quite a bit of time with you, what do you think?"

Ling Yuxiang said with a frustrated expression, "Needless to say, their skills are all treacherous, cunning, despicable and shameless. They're all the same as you, just as obsessed with saving face. They appear upright and honest, but in reality, they love to ambush. If I hadn't met them, I would have really thought they were heroes."

Recalling his time in Fengcheng, although he hadn't paid much attention, he knew how much suffering the Dark Pavilion members and the Flying Feather Cavalry had endured. Most of them had to suffer in silence, even though they knew it was that smiling man who was responsible, they couldn't express their bitterness.

Like officers, like soldiers. In fact, the treachery and cunning of these men were all trained by Feng Xinglie!

So this person in front of me is also Feng Xinglie's subordinate? Ling Yuxiang narrowed his eyes slightly and smiled, "It seems that your Netherworld Guardian has arrived."

Qingying made no move, only showing surprise. This Great Ling War God's martial arts and wisdom were no less than her master's. As expected of a man worthy of being on par with her master, she no longer had any intention of testing him and immediately bowed.

"Youlan greets Your Majesty and Prince Ling." Youlan raised his head. He was also a handsome young man with a calm demeanor. Although he was not as outstanding as Xi Suifeng, he was still a rare talent.

Since both the Dark Pavilion and the Flame Riders were in the open, and intelligence in Han City could not be investigated secretly, Feng Xinglie summoned Youlan, who was closest to him, to send over the general information.

Ling Yuxiang seemed to have anticipated this situation and was not too surprised, after all, the Dark Moon Sect was an important force under Feng Xinglie's control.

Youlan respectfully handed over the bundle behind her, and said hesitantly, "My lord, since your incident, the Dark Moon Sect has been closely monitoring the Qin King's movements. This time, the Western Qin King has also secretly come and arrived in the capital. He no longer conceals his whereabouts. After you, Yihongxuan, attracted the Yue King's attention with your identity as Feng Meiniang, he has once again hidden his whereabouts. I believe that the Qin King may have already suspected your identity, my lord. You must be careful."

Qin Han's audacity in openly frequenting brothels in the capital demonstrates that Han Cheng has ample manpower, at least superficially enough to rival Qin Yue. However, his subsequent quiet disappearance after seeing Feng Xinglie suggests he has no other intentions, making it hard to believe.

Listening to Youlan's analysis, Ling Yuxiang couldn't help but admire Feng Xinglie's method of planting people: "If I could also have such a group of highly capable subordinates who know how to advance and retreat, I wouldn't have to worry about everything. I started assigning personnel as soon as I was old enough to understand things. In fact, even though Ye Piao, Zi Mo, and Ling Ke are quite skilled, they are even less willing to use their brains than yours. I really don't know how you managed to do it."

"My methods are of course different from yours. I focus on training elite troops, but my manpower is far less than your Flying Feather Cavalry. We each have our strengths and weaknesses, so let's not praise each other. Besides, who am I! You and I are not equal!" Feng Xinglie couldn't stand the praise and his tail immediately wagged up to the sky.

"No matter how capable you are, you'll still be my queen." Ling Yuxiang snorted, clearly asking for a beating again, and Feng Xinglie certainly wouldn't disappoint him.

Youlan smiled knowingly. Neither of these two were the type to joke about serious matters. Judging from their flirtatious manner, they were probably prepared. Of course, he would stay within his bounds and not cause trouble.

"However, my lord, the recent stalemate between the Qin King and the Yue King's armies on the battlefield is merely a ruse. Although Western Qin has undergone internal reorganization, according to our investigations, many generals are Qin King's men, and they have always appeared loyal to the Yue King. Many of them hold considerable authority. For example, Qin King is currently attacking Tianfei Pass. I investigated overnight and obtained accurate information that the defending general, Han Zhang, is Qin King's man. As long as he opens the city gates, Qin King's army can enter the pass immediately. I understand that things are not so simple, so I immediately dispatched people from the Dark Moon Gate within Great Qin. After several twists and turns, we finally determined that most of the passes on the main road to Hancheng have Qin King's confidants as inside agents, and they hold extremely high positions, either generals or deputy generals. I believe this matter is of great importance, so I have come to report."

Feng Xinglie and Ling Yuxiang exchanged a glance, their eyes showing surprise but not too much astonishment.

"You did a good job." Feng Xinglie never hesitated to praise capable subordinates, as a sense of accomplishment made them more loyal. She pondered for a moment and said softly, "Qin Han should have been a hero, but my brilliance overshadowed his. Back then, my presence by his side made it convenient for him to bide his time. Qin Yue probably never dreamed that this emperor, who was always supported by the Great Qin Feng King, would have such cunning and strategy, having already planted people around him. Hmph, he doesn't even consider that if Qin Han were truly useless and a coward, why would he need me to support him?"

Ling Yuxiang's eyes flickered as he gently embraced her in front of him: "If Tian Feiguan has no obstacles along the way, it will only take him two or three days to get to Hancheng. Even if there are things he hasn't figured out yet, he can still take it down by attacking from both sides, cutting off supplies, and inciting the people. There won't be any problem with taking it down. The battle report will be sent over in time. Now that the Western Qin state banquet is approaching, I'm afraid his army will also have to take action."

Youlan's face darkened, as if she had realized something: "Does the King of Qin intend to wipe out all the envoys invited by Western Qin in one fell swoop?"

Feng Xinglie coldly laughed, "It's not just him; I'm afraid everyone has such plans." This Western Qin Banquet was originally a high-stakes gamble and contest. The three largest countries in the world, along with the newly rising Lie Army, and other heavyweight figures gathered together. Who wouldn't want to eliminate others, start a war, and unify the three kingdoms? It sounds simple, but putting it into practice is not so easy. There are probably no ones she takes seriously yet.

"Then, my lord..." Youlan became even more anxious, her expression clearly asking Feng Xinglie whether to use the power of the Dark Moon Sect.

"Don't worry, since we expected this, we weren't caught off guard. Do you remember the first thing I said when you started following me?"

Feng Xinglie looked at him with a shrewd glint in his eyes: "Besides, there's also Prince Ling. Does he look like someone waiting to die?"

"Your subordinate believes in you, my lord." Youlan's heart calmed down. Yes, how many storms hadn't her lord weathered? Moreover, now she had someone by her side whose abilities were no less than hers. Stealing a glance at Ling Yuxiang, who exuded a kingly aura, Youlan finally believed that there truly were people in the world as capable as her lord.

"Very good!" Feng Xinglie's eyes gleamed. Only those who trusted her could she entrust her safety to.

"Also, it's inconvenient for me to send someone to the Flying Feather Cavalry. If you can pass on this message, please give it to Ling Ke." You Lan looked at the bamboo tube that was as big as his hand, and then glanced at the seemingly harmless-looking Prince Ling. It seemed that he had been tricked by this Prince Ling.

"Your subordinate will certainly not fail in your mission!" The gifts were all stuffed into his hands, how could he refuse? Besides, his lord was watching the show, and given the current situation, he might change his address to "Lord" at any moment. Since it was his lord's order, it wouldn't be an insult to him.

The intelligence from Youlan has been delivered; it is not advisable to linger. He quietly disappears into the night and departs.

Feng Xinglie and Ling Yuxiang exchanged a smile, sat down together, opened the intelligence report, and began to analyze and study it in detail.

In truth, they hadn't spent much time together. They were often separated, and the only time they had truly been together since they met was during the attack on Baihui Pass. It was very little, but their understanding was better than that of many comrades. Surprisingly, they managed to resolve this complex situation without any disagreement.

Under the flickering candlelight, they discussed the matter with increasing enthusiasm, almost like a game. Whenever they reached a point of common ground, Feng Xinglie would speak with great enthusiasm and pride, while Ling Yuxiang would gaze at her with a gentle smile. Seeing her radiant face, he couldn't help but step forward, hug her, and kiss her.

Of course, the result of stealing a kiss is very tragic, but it's worth it.

After analyzing the situation, Feng Xinglie shook his head and sighed. The situation was far more complicated and severe than they had imagined. At this banquet in Western Qin, all the countries that bordered Western Qin were invited or came to watch the spectacle. They all sent their envoys, hoping that Western Qin would disintegrate so they could share the spoils. Everyone had their own reasons.

However, these people probably will never consider the many lives that will be sacrificed; in their eyes, these sacrifices are just a number.

"Yu Xiang, do you know what ruthlessness means?" A hint of severity flashed in his eyes.

"All I know is that your ruthlessness always breaks my heart." Ling Yuxiang hugged her tightly, as if he wanted it to last forever.

Homeland of Qin, Chapter Fifty-Six: Green Fence Reappears

The avenue paved with bluestone seemed endless, stretching far into the distance. All around, glazed tiles and gold and jade were stacked, revealing the extravagance of the royal family. Walking on this road, Feng Xinglie secretly regretted not thinking of taking a few treasures when she sneaked into the palace that night. She didn't care about money; it would have been fun to scare Qin Yue. Her scheme to sow discord was poorly executed, but it was indeed the fuse that broke the relationship between Qin Han and her.

Thinking of this, his bright eyes looked around at the red and green patches, considering how to cause trouble.

"What mischief are you plotting now? The way you look at yourself, you're definitely scheming." He breathed warmly on my ear and chuckled, "You're not thinking about how to embarrass me, are you?"

Her face flushed, a rare sight for Feng Xing. His magnetic voice, coupled with his luxurious attire, captivated her several times.

His outfit was elegant and dashing, carefully chosen by himself. Now Feng Xinglie regretted it. At a state banquet, there would inevitably be women present. Dressing Ling Yuxiang up so conspicuously was tantamount to sending him to a pack of wolves! Fortunately, Ling Yuxiang was no pushover.

Rolling his eyes at him, Feng Xinglie said irritably, "Don't be silly! Who wants their man to be embarrassed? You're my support now. If you leave, who am I supposed to rely on?"

Ling Yuxiang said pitifully, "I don't know who you want to rely on, but there's already someone who's 200% willing to let you rely on them."

Besides Ling Yuxiang, who else would have the guts to take on this tiger cub? Feng Xinglie still has some self-awareness.

A magnificent blue robe came into view, with a wine pot hanging from his waist. The man's demeanor was somewhat out of place with those around him. He seemed to be walking slowly, but he was already in front of us in a moment, which was enough to show that this man was highly skilled in martial arts. However, his unruly and unrestrained demeanor, appearing at a solemn court banquet, drew the attention of those around him.

"It's true what they say, you never know where you'll meet again, Brother Ling. I was really worried about you after we parted the other day, but I had some trivial matters to attend to, and it seemed that you were only interested in beauties, so I didn't bother you. I didn't expect you to be so fond of beauties, and to have even brought them to an occasion like today?"

Her smiling eyes glanced behind Ling Yuxiang, but she was stunned by the beauty of the woman behind her!

Feng Xinglie was still dressed in a fiery red dress today, but someone had deliberately made it so that the fabric was exactly the same as Ling Yuxiang's clothes. It cinched her slender waist, making her figure appear exquisite and shapely. Ling Yuxiang had personally styled her long hair into a phoenix hairstyle, revealing her smooth forehead. Two large luminous pearl pendants swayed on her earlobes. Even though she was still wearing a red veil, her stunning radiance had not diminished in the slightest.

It was common for people to bring women to banquets, but if a beauty worthy of Ling Yuxiang's status wasn't outstanding, she would inevitably be bullied. Ling Yuxiang insisted on dressing her up properly before letting her out, and seeing his silly grin, Feng Xinglie wondered if he was just trying to feast his eyes on her.

At this moment, Qing Xiangfeng was also dumbfounded. Ling Yuxiang was extremely annoyed and regretful. Jealousy welled up in his eyes, and he tightened his grip on Feng Xinglie's arm, squeezing out the words through gritted teeth: "Brother Qing, you flatter me. Brother Qing has always been accompanied by beauties, so I suppose you are not lacking in the favor of beauties. I wonder if General Qingli has found the one he misses?"

The implication is: Don't just look at my beauty! Go find your female confidantes.

He revealed Qingli's identity, his expression remaining unchanged, showing no surprise whatsoever. Qingli smiled, her eyes gleaming with shrewdness, and with a flick of her flowing hair, she remained as dashing as ever: "Prince Ling is indeed a brilliant strategist, worthy of being called a war god. I imagine you already had some guesses when you met me. I won't hide it, I also guessed a thing or two when I learned of your alias. It's quite a coincidence, to be honest, the person I've been longing for is none other than Feng Meiniang, the one in your arms! I wonder if you would be willing to part with her?"

The implied meaning in his words amused Ling Yuxiang; he was clearly doubting Feng Xinglie's identity. This Qingli was truly impossible to dislike; his wit and charm were admirable enough to inspire respect and even friendship. Feng Xinglie's appreciative nature showed he was no ordinary person.

Thinking of this, she couldn't help but turn her head and glare at Feng Xinglie. Look at you, always out there flirting with other women! They've come knocking on your door!

At this time, the once bustling palace was now deserted of guests. Many people stopped to discuss the two outstanding men. Upon hearing their back-and-forth singing, they were all shocked. What was even more surprising was that these two would openly compete for a dancer!

The stone stirred up a thousand waves; envy, jealousy, amazement, and infatuation—all eyes were focused on Feng Xinglie.

Leaning against Ling Yuxiang's chest, Feng Xinglie stepped forward and stomped hard on Qingli's foot without leaving a trace. His eyes flashed with fire, but he smiled harmlessly on the surface. However, anyone could see that something was a little strange about him.

"General Qing has always been a womanizer, and he probably has more than one or two women in his heart. How could I trouble you with such thoughts? You should go back and bring a few confidantes before you come again, lest you become a laughingstock." She raised her eyebrows before returning to Ling Yuxiang's embrace, giving him an innocent, alluring wink: "Your Highness, it's getting late!"

“Meiniang is right. As for my attitude, Brother Qing, you must have heard about it.” Ling Yuxiang smiled, his domineering presence unmatched. He glanced around casually, his words carrying a hidden meaning: “I will never back down!”

What a joke! Ask him to 'give up' something he loves? Not even in his next life! With that, he gracefully strode inside.

Feng Meiniang, who disappeared for several years, is quite cunning! It seems she hasn't wasted these past few years. Not only has she captured the heart of this powerful war god, but she has also captivated Qingli, the third prince of the Qing Kingdom, who is famous throughout the country. However, judging from the current situation, it seems the poor third prince has been dumped.

Feeling helpless under so many pitying gazes, Qingli thought to herself that this woman really hadn't changed at all.

I was just testing you! You don't have to insult me like that, trying to ruin my reputation! I didn't even bring a single beautiful woman with me because of you! Thinking of Ling Yuxiang's smug look just now, and how Feng Xinglie would throw himself into a man's arms, an unspeakable bitterness ached in her heart.

Xinglie, as clever as you are, can't you sense my heart? I never wanted to be just friends with you! When I saw Ling Yuxiang carrying you away in Yihongxuan that day, and discovered all the things that might have happened between you, do you know the shock and pain in my heart? I felt like I was in an ice cellar. I searched for you for so long, and I was overjoyed when I heard the military report, but when I saw you, you were already in a man's arms. How could I easily accept this?

However, Xi Suifeng's obstruction was very effective, reminding me of my duty, my country, and my identity. It also reminded me of your fortitude and your determination. You would not compromise yourself for anyone, and I could not give up my great cause for anyone. Therefore, we are destined to be friends.

That year, you rescued me from among three thousand iron cavalry. That year, you stood at the end of the yellow sand and patted my shoulder, saying that we were the best of friends, now and forever. Even seeing the somewhat bewildered feelings in my eyes that day, you pointed me to a path, and I will choose that path myself…

Gazing at that fiery red figure from afar, my heart ached.

That man's simple "Never again" shattered all his confidence. That one sentence contained so much; that man's wisdom and courage would definitely make it happen. And he, in the end, could not deceive himself; he was ultimately just an ordinary man, only able to cling to his profound sense of patriotism, his vision never matching the world-class perspective of those two men.

Birds of a feather flock together. Feng Xinglie and Ling Yuxiang were not the same kind of people. He lost, he lost completely. And even without Ling Yuxiang, Feng Xinglie would not have accepted his feelings.

Qingli gave a self-deprecating smile, her face suddenly brightening, the gloom and dejection vanishing. After all, they were her friends, and having two such friends was certainly a great joy in life.

With a light touch of his toes, the figure in green robes flashed and arrived at Qingli beside the two, looking dejected and pained. "Since Meiniang doesn't choose me, I won't force you. However, if Brother Ling hurt you that day, I will always welcome you with open arms." As he spoke, he stretched out his arms, his bright eyes scanning Feng Xinglie's silhouette with intense passion, as if he wished Ling Yuxiang would just leave right now.

Upon hearing his words, Feng Xinglie and Ling Yuxiang were both amused and annoyed. They kicked him in the butt in perfect unison, working together to get rid of the third wheel.

"Prince Yue is getting impatient! Why aren't you getting out of here?"

Qingli, thankfully unharmed, sighed repeatedly, "Those two bastards who forget their friends for the sake of a pretty face!"