Chapter 108: Together Always 2

"So Valley Master Lin intends for us to just watch thousands of people die outside the border?" Snow March's voice came from outside the door as she slowly stepped in, staring at Lin Haoqing with animosity. Her impression of him had clearly stayed at the Demon Valley six years ago.

"Like father, like son," she sneered. Lin Haoqing stayed silent.

Ji Yunhe called to her, "March."

After learning of the whole truth, Ji Yunhe felt like his situation was the same as hers. They were both nothing but pawns, pathetic and sad...

Ji Yunhe said, "What Lin Haoqing said was not without logic." Snow March frowned.

"Yunhe, you also want to abandon those people?"

"I can only say -- try to save as many as we can." Ji Yunhe turned to Changyi.

"I don't think we can accept them unconditionally. We need to set up a time and a limit, then lay down the boundary after that. What needs to be done will have to be done. Nothing is perfect in this world, and sacrifices are inevitable…"

Changyi deliberated for a while. This was a decision to grant life, and death. But nothing could be gained in this world without giving up something else in return.

"Come," he called in two servants and instructed them.

"Before April 15th, allow five hundred people a day at each gate. If any were found to have committed a heinous crime, deny entrance."

"Yes." The servants received the order and left.

"Shunde's power centers around the wood element, so a fire boundary would be ideal," Lin Haoqing suggested.

"Although my spell in her body is broken, it did leave a primer. A strong fire attack may be able to draw it out and cause her some serious injury."

"Hmm," Changyi said, "there were five thousand, eight hundred and thirty people in the north proficient in fire magic, that's counting both demons and demon masters. I haven't yet checked on those who entered the border recently while I was away, but I am guessing the total now is still less than ten thousand. I'm afraid that there are not enough people to set up a boundary to stop Shunde."

Ji Yunhe looked at Changyi. This fish… Previously he had wanted to beat and kill people over frivolous things, but in fact, he never truly slacked on official business, and was mindfully aware of each and every one entering the city.

"I also cultivate in the art of fire," Ji Yunhe took the initiative to tell him.

"The black flame of the nine-tailed fox demon is far superior to ordinary demons and demon master crafts. I can go first to set up a foundation for the boundary at the border. Others can then inject power to build onto it and strengthen it. As for manpower... maybe do it like how we dealt with the lava, so people who do not practice fire magic can help enhance the power of those who do."

"Okay." Changyi lifted his head and looked at Lin Haoqing. This was the first time in six years they really came face to face again. But now, they gaze at each other with no hatred or grudge. They both had let go of the past.

"Valley Master Lin, we haven't yet finished counting all the demon masters that joined the north. Since you are more familiar with them, you can call forth some suitable candidates to help with the boundary."

"I already have some people in mind, and I will bring them here tomorrow."

"Thank you."

Lin Haoqing coughed a bit then said, "Jiaoren, everyone should thank you. Without you, there wouldn't be a Northlands for them to seek shelter in. What kind of a world would that be… Do not thank me again, I'm not qualified."

Lin Haoqing coughed some more and went out the door. Changyi turned around and stared at Ji Yunhe, so much that it made her feel uncomfortable.