Chapter Twenty-Seven: Edge Unveiled

Second Watch, Third Quarter

The night was pitch-black, as if endless ink had been smeared thickly across the sky, not even a glimmer of starlight visible. The air was stifling and humid, almost as though a heavy mist had descended.

Within the military encampment, Zifan had already fallen asleep early. Suddenly, he seemed to hear a faint rustle in the wind. Instantly alert, his eyes sharpened. As the saying goes, what troubles you by day will haunt your dreams by night. For someone to dare infiltrate the Black Cavalry’s camp in the dead of night—such a person was either a fool, or a master of martial arts with nerves of steel.

System, are you there?

The system stands ready to serve the host at any time. What do you require?

Help me detect if anyone is approaching…

Understood, host…

…

Host, someone has entered the commander’s tent. This is a skilled individual, but after a scan, the system detects no murderous intent. There is no threat to you. The system recommends you feign sleep; this will allow you to observe whether the intruder harbors ill will, and discover his true intentions…

The figure in black slipped into the tent and quietly closed the flap behind him. He surveyed the chamber, finding nothing amiss. With utmost caution, he moved swiftly toward the bed, his steps utterly silent—as if he were a specter gliding through the darkness, a cat creeping soundlessly across the floor.

The midnight breeze brought a trace of coolness, though the harsh chill of winter had already faded away.

After entering Zifan’s sleeping quarters, the black-clad man glanced about, then tiptoed towards the bed. There, lying before him, was the man he revered above all others—the one who had given him a new lease on life. His gaze was filled with conflicting emotions.

This perilous intrusion was driven by regrets and sorrows buried deep within his heart for years. He was determined to reveal to the world the truth about a certain injustice, to vindicate his father and restore his honor. Even if sneaking into the commander’s tent was a capital offense, he had resolved to risk everything. At worst, he would confess once justice had been served—so that he might depart this world without regret.

With trembling hands, he reached into his robe and drew forth a letter, which he placed carefully by Zifan’s pillow. Once Zifan awoke, he would see it. With Zifan’s unwavering sense of justice, he would surely bring the truth to light.

The black-clad man dared not disturb Zifan. Firstly, because Zifan, as commander of the army, was a figure of immense authority and discipline, his dignity unassailable. Secondly, Zifan was a formidable martial artist, difficult to approach even for several men at once, often called the “Living Judge of the Underworld” by the soldiers. “If the Judge wishes you dead at midnight, who would dare let you live past dawn? One stroke seals your fate!” No one would risk their life to defy him. The black-clad man shivered involuntarily at the thought of being discovered—if caught, he would never escape the commander’s camp.

“General…” he whispered, bowing deeply in utmost respect as he prepared to leave.

“Yue Feng, since you are here, why depart so soon? Do you not wish to speak with me?”

A thunderous voice rang out from behind. Startled, Yue Feng’s eyes widened in shock. He turned slowly to see Zifan reclining on the command couch, half smiling, holding the letter in his hand. With a wave, Zifan dismissed the hidden guards lurking in the shadows.

In that moment, Yue Feng’s entire body trembled.

“I know you seek the truth behind your father Yue Yun’s fate. The ‘Yue Family Massacre’ shook the entire realm. When we were among the Yellow Turbans, your face seemed familiar to me, though I could not place it then. To think, you are Yue Yun’s son. Your father was a hero—leading the northern campaign against the Xiongnu, yet falsely accused of stealing credit, leading to the extermination of his family. Rumor had it that his wounded son escaped, vanishing thereafter. It turns out the tale was true. But this matter is far more complex than you imagine. Too many were involved—countless ministers at court. If you are discovered, you may well lose your life, and that would betray your father’s sacrifice. Remember, he paid a great price to ensure your survival.”

Yue Feng removed his black veil and headscarf, revealing a head of white hair. Solemnly, he knelt on one knee and saluted. “My lord’s wisdom is uncanny. I am in awe!”

“I knew you would investigate this matter one day—but now is not the time. Otherwise, how did you enter my camp? The commander’s quarters are heavily guarded; even with your skills, escape would be difficult. This must remain secret. When I have amassed enough power, I will help you seek justice. But for now, you must wait.”

“My lord…” Yue Feng stammered, unsure if he felt more joy or terror.

“The Yue Family Massacre was a travesty of justice, a conspiracy plain to any discerning eye. The family was framed, yet the court officials who held power profited. Such bravery and loyalty, rewarded with annihilation! Driven by self-interest, men forget all conscience; under the lure of profit, they tear off the mask of virtue and reveal the abyss of their nature. Now a new emperor sits on the throne—a nine-year-old child, Liu Xie, lacking the power to control his court. To redress this injustice, we must first build enough strength to make the court tremble. Now that you have joined my ranks, you are as a brother to me. Fear not—I will see your cause done.”

At these words, Yue Feng’s eyes filled with tears. Deeply moved, he bowed in gratitude. “On behalf of my father, I thank you, my lord. Rest assured, my life is yours to command. I will face fire and water without hesitation.”

“Good. From now on, you answer to me alone. Report to me directly. The court is corrupt and the lords restless; chaos is coming. Our power is not yet great, but your mastery of stealth is perfect for assassination. I have a task for you—seek out Guo Jia for funds, then gather orphans among the people and train them as death warriors.”

“Understood,” Yue Feng replied with a nod.

“Remember, do not let yourself be seen when you leave. Your identity must remain a secret from all others. Never forget this!” With a wave of his hand, Zifan dismissed him.

Yue Feng bowed deeply, then departed as silently as he had come.