Chapter 81: Jincheng, Oath of Brotherhood in the Peach Garden

In the rear courtyard of the Crown Prince’s residence stood a sandalwood table, upon which rested an incense burner. Beside it were three bowls of wine, all surrounded by dozens of paintings of peach blossoms.

Zhang Meng led the way, offering an embarrassed smile. “Brother, I truly apologize. I couldn’t find a peach garden.”

“You’re too formal, elder brother. I was only speaking casually. You’re the one with real intentions,” Chu Junhan replied sweetly, her words dripping with flattery.

The two, chatting and laughing, approached the meditation mats, followed by Qiu Ling with an indifferent expression.

Each of the three took a stick of incense, knelt in order, and together vowed, “Zhang Meng, Chu Han, and Qiu Ling become sworn brothers here today. From now on, we will share fortune and hardship alike. We do not ask to be born on the same year, month, and day, but wish to die together on the same year, month, and day. Heaven and earth bear witness.”

With these words, the three bowed before the incense burner, holding their incense sticks.

Chu Junhan stole a glance at Qiu Ling, who was bowing beside her, and thought to herself, “I don’t trust this third brother. One day, I’ll find a chance to kill him.”

When the incense was placed in the burner, the trio raised their bowls and drank heartily.

Zhang Meng smashed his bowl onto the ground, his gaze sincere as he addressed the others, “From today onward, let us stand by each other, sharing honor and disgrace alike.”

“Well said, elder brother!” Chu Junhan smashed her own bowl as well, her expression excited. This was the first brother she had sought out on her own.

Qiu Ling followed suit, choking back emotion but saying nothing.

The ceremony ended there.

Even after Chu Junhan had departed, Zhang Meng lingered wistfully. “Brother, why not stay a few more days? I’m preparing to march on Liaozhou. Once we take the salt city of Liao, we’ll celebrate with a great feast—what do you say?”

Chu Junhan was already mounted, her face apologetic. “My father is gravely ill. Leaving the borders of Liaozhou was forced upon me—I cannot stay longer. There will be time in the future. We brothers will surely share a drink again someday.”

“In that case, I won’t insist. Let me see you off,” Zhang Meng said, pulling his horse close and mounting up.

The three horses sped along the road to Liaozhou. The wind reddened the cheeks of the child, who clung tightly to the hand of her handsome brother.

After passing several postal stations in Liaozhou, the trio finally stopped.

Zhang Meng turned his horse, reluctant to part. “Brother, a thousand miles I’ve escorted you, but all journeys must end in farewell. I’ll send you off no further.”

“Elder brother, you should return,” the child replied, her eyes filled with reluctant affection. She cherished this bond of brotherhood; yesterday’s ceremony was heartfelt.

Zhang Meng’s silhouette receded into the distance. Chu Junhan sighed softly, “Brother Tang Chen, let’s rest here. We’ll continue our journey tomorrow.”

With Ren Da Kingdom launching a water attack against Liao, there was no longer any rush. The two-pronged assault guaranteed victory.

Of course, Ren Da Kingdom’s campaign against Liao was a momentous event! News of the army’s movement quickly reached the ears of the Emperor of Tianwu.

In the imperial study of the Pingzhou Palace, a man in his fifties sat on the dragon throne, his hair bristling with anger. Only a scholarly middle-aged man stood at his side.

“Wasn’t Chu Xiong supposed to be nearing his end? Why would Ren Da Kingdom send troops to aid him?”

Liu Shuming bowed. “Your Majesty, the spies report that Ren Da Kingdom’s army is led by Prince Meng Qin. It is said that Chu Junhan persuaded him, and some witnesses saw Prince Meng Qin escorting her for a thousand miles out of Jin City.”

The Emperor of Tianwu narrowed his eyes, his gaze sharp as a blade. “A thousand-mile escort! Chu Junhan again! My heir... Han! My dear brother has indeed raised an exceptional child.”

“Your Majesty, perhaps you’ve forgotten that Chu Junhan was taught by Cen Song?” Liu Shuming reminded him.

“You think this is Cen Song’s scheme?” The Emperor of Tianwu shot to his feet. Liu Shuming stepped back, making way.