The battle of East Sea Ramped Ocean (3/3)
When Jiang Xicheng realized the battle strategy used by the forces of Henan province, he immediately stopped the troops and made a new battle formation.
The bright sun shining in the sky provided little comfort for the soldiers of Henan province who were trembling in fear, dreading the uncertain fate that awaited them.
They had been marching all night to get to the battlefield, but they suddenly realized that the forces of East Sea Ramped Ocean had taken up strategic positions across from them.
Despite their exhaustion, they steeled themselves for battle and prepared to meet the enemy. But Wang Shuaiyue and Jiang Xicheng had some tricks up their sleeves. They sent out a monstrous war machine towards Zhu Bolin's exhausted troops.
The machine produced an ear-piercing roar that struck fear and terror in the hearts of Zhu Bolin's soldiers, who had no defence against it. Those who tried to stand and fight were quickly cut down, and the few who remained alive quickly scrambled for cover.
In the meantime, Wang Shuaiyue's forces advanced on Zhu Bolin's position with an almost unstoppable force. The skilful battle tactics employed by Jiang Xicheng completely overwhelmed the opposition.
Zhu Bolin's troops, terrified and demoralized, quickly gave way to the superior forces of Wang Shuaiyue. The victory of the East Sea Ramped Ocean was complete and final. Zhu Bolin's troops all lay sprawled across the ground in defeat, some dead.
Upon hearing the news of Jiang Xicheng's impressive victory, Zhu Bolin, who was deeply stunned and overwhelmed by the former's skill, fled in a state of sheer terror. With General Yuan Yangzi left distressed and stunned by his Master's decision, the ensuing combat proved tragically fatal for him, as he was dealt an agonising wound from Jiang Xicheng's powerful glaive.
Thus, the General was forced to make a hasty retreat for his safety, in light of his waning strength. The next day, Wang Shuaiyue held a meeting to discuss Jiang Xicheng's outstanding achievement the night before. Pleased with his trusty companion's heroic tribulations, Wang prepared for his next imperative order.
"My loyal brother, Liwei. Your strength is without measure and the hasty retreat of our foe, owes greatly to you", Wang spoke with a pleased expression.
He then let out a laugh and remarked, "It is truly amazing how loyal and noble the spirit of a warrior is". With that, the two allies looked at one another and shared a glance of understanding.
The battle tactics used by Jiang Xicheng had without a doubt, reflected an ingenious form of genius and discipline, solidifying the victory of the East Sea Ramped Ocean in the indisputably toughest battle so far.
Feasting and celebrating their victory for two nights and one day straight, Jiang Xicheng then bid farewell to the latter. Wang Shuaiyue wanted him to stay for some time but Jiang Xicheng had some other plans ahead.
The bustling streets of the market bustled with excitement as they filled up with buyers and merchants.
Master Wei Liuxian strode through this joyous atmosphere, accompanied by several retainers and attendant carts laden down with various wares acquired during his journey from the Kunlun Mountains.
The martial arts cultivator from Kunlun mountains had a tall and muscular physique with a strong jawline and square face, framed by thick brown hair cascading down his shoulders.
His eyes were intense and piercing, cold and calculating but also full of passion and purpose. He wore a finely crafted long robe of rich reds and blues, his waist embellished with a belt of black silk.
On his back was a long sword with a black sheath, double-edged and razor-sharp. His expression was stoic and composed, but his demeanour was calm and confident, exuding power and authority that could only come from rigorous cultivation.
As they proceeded, one particular figure kept pace on the side– Jiang Xudong of the Windswept Willow Sect.
Hatred emanated off him in palpable form as he did his best to frequently rub elbows anytime would come close enough and kept a sarcastic remark ready at arm's length to crash against them whenever given an opportunity if fulsome contact failed to avail itself long enough.
But Master Wei Liuxian had been well aware since their first meeting; he could read the intention behind those spiteful expressions and could feel his contempt hidden beneath his every gesture.
Seeing that his usual antics had fallen flat, Jiang Xudong stepped closer and, using an exaggerated tone of respect, addressed Liuxian in a hushed and measured tone.
"I have heard much of the martial prowess of Master Wei. The villagers within our sect have heard tales of your greatness, and I must admit, I would be honoured to be able to measure up to such excellence." He said with a slight bow of his head.
Wei Liuxian regarded him with a stern and knowing eye. "It is commendable that you aspire to great heights," he began, his voice carrying a knowing weight. "However, no matter how high one may reach, the truth is that it is only through great effort and dedication that one can attain greatness. Let us see how formidable you can be when you put your heart into it."
With this, he continued on his way, leaving a dumbstruck Jiang Xudong behind. Wei Liuxian had seen through Jiang Xudong's intentions and though Jiang Xudong continued his charade of offering friendship and exuding respect, Wei Liuxian knew that the man had not given up on his foul plays and schemes. He would just have to keep a more wary eye on the future.