Chapter 188: Stabilizing Hearts and Minds
March 8, Sunday.
As dawn broke dimly in the depths of the Shunan Bamboo Sea mountains, a quaint little mansion with a distinctly rural flavor finally opened its doors.
A middle-aged woman dressed as a nanny stepped out, and a man who had been waiting outside for almost the entire night hurried over.
A few minutes later, the nanny gently set a tray of tea down on the table after softly opening the door to the master bedroom, then stood to the side with her head slightly bowed.
The old ancestor of the Wang family had just gotten up, and at that moment, was folding the quilt by the bed, his movements gentle and unhurried.
“Has the fifth one already left?”
Turning around, the old ancestor of the Wang family wore a calm expression.
“Old ancestor… news has come back from C City, the Dark Arrow headquarters and the Takami family have both contacted intermediaries to inquire about the fifth uncle regarding yesterday’s operations…”
“As you suspected, the fifth uncle did not tell them the truth. Before the Dark Arrow launched their attack in the early morning, the fifth uncle disappeared from C City and is now missing…”
The nanny, feeling a bit tense, subconsciously gripped the edge of her clothes; though she had been psychologically prepared, her face still looked a bit unnatural.
“I have to clarify… ever since the intelligence reports went awry repeatedly, and with the seventh suffering defeat repeatedly in the south, I started to suspect the fifth one… The Han family, after all, still produced a clear-headed person, afraid of collateral damage, yet the fifth kept the truth hidden, confirming that he has issues.”
“Back then, when the fifth dealt with the Honda family in Japan, he was so powerful; I have always given him opportunities…”
“This time, it seems that the Wang family, the Alliance of Seekers, and Dark Arrow all have insiders, putting on a grand show together, with the truth beginning to surface. Sometimes, being too accurate in predictions can also be troublesome…”
The old ancestor of the Wang family sat in a bamboo chair, lifting the tea cup but pausing for a while without taking a sip, his gaze slightly averted to the ground as if lost in thought.
“Ancestor, the third uncle has already caught wind of it; he’s in a state of agitation. Shouldn’t we tell him the truth…?”
After hesitating for a dozen seconds, the nanny raised her head and cautiously said, “Currently, people in C City are also on edge, Jin Fuyong has been asking to speak with you.”
“Let the fourth temporarily take over the fifth’s role. This time, the Wang family must not publicly mourn; we can give Dark Arrow some hints but we can’t afford to play anymore; let them deal with it themselves…”
Saying this, the old ancestor finally lifted the cover from the tea bowl, gently inhaling the fragrance of the tea, his face devoid of ripples, but a peculiar smile appeared at the corners of his mouth: “Stay calm, no one can say anything; otherwise, some sacrifices would be in vain. As for Jin, tell him this is my intent: protect the family assets in C City well, what’s to be collected and what’s to be let go, he needs to ponder that…”
“As for the news of the fifth’s escape, tighten up where it needs to be tightened and loosen where it needs to be relaxed. The fifth’s in-law is from the Zhou family. If someone from the Zhou family hears rumors and comes asking, just say that it doesn’t exist.”
“Regarding the Seekers, let the fourth apologize to Chu Dali.”
“Additionally, the ghostly Wang Yue should soon request to see me again; let Jin agree. As for Xiao Jiu, have him speed up the progress…”
In the next few minutes, the old ancestor systematically assigned several tasks before picking up a bamboo basket and hoe to head up the mountain to dig bamboo shoots, as if the events of a few hours earlier had been inconsequential.
…
…
B City, Y Province.
On the third floor of a large jade and stone craft building on a pedestrian street.
Early in the morning, Jiang Yan was abruptly awakened by an urgent ringtone. Upon checking, she realized it was a call from someone named Guo Hao. They had exchanged contact details during their joint infiltration of Old Street, but hadn’t spoken in three months.
“Xiao Yan… Brother Xiang…”
On the other end of the line, Guo Hao’s voice was particularly hoarse, emotionally low as if the sky had collapsed, and tinged with some fear and anxiety.
Jiang Yan instantly felt a sense of foreboding rise in her mind, glancing toward the door before hurriedly lowering her voice: “What’s wrong, Hao Ge? Isn’t Brother Xiang participating in the joint operation with Sister Wan early this morning?”
A minute later, Jiang Yan silently hung up the phone, biting her lip.
Without any hesitation, she quickly switched her phone card and dialed Wan Yue’s number, only to find it was powered off.
Those involved in the operation from the Wang family, including Brother Xiang and Sister Wu, were all dead, ambushed by Dark Arrow… How could this happen, where did the leak come from…
Jiang Yan muttered to herself, her hands trembling slightly as she gripped her phone.
A few hours ago, the joint operation of the Wang family and the Alliance of Seekers had ended in near total annihilation, with only a handful of people lucky enough to escape while on lookout outside.
At the same time, Dark Arrow launched precise aerial strikes on three target points, and when the aristocrats of the Wang family and the Seekers made their incursion, terrifying precision-guided bombs fell from the sky, obliterating the elite of both families without warning.
Thinking of this, Jiang Yan hurriedly called Zhao Peng.
…that’s why I didn’t call you first. Don’t worry, Sister Wan is fine; she still has things to take care of.
During the few minutes of conversation, Zhao Peng spoke in a calm manner, a hint of unease barely noticeable, but far more stable than Guo Hao’s earlier tone.
“Xiao Yan, Sister Wan asked me to convey that you need to stabilize the situation in Old Street and try to hold your ground. From now on, no matter who it is, even those under the banner of the Alliance of Seekers, they are not allowed to take over Old Street!”
Zhao Peng’s voice raised slightly, quite serious: “I will soon send Liang Qin and Zheng Shaolin to support you. If things truly become unmanageable, preserve your strength and persuade Guo Hao to withdraw back to the country. As long as we have the green mountains, we need not worry about firewood!”
“Understood, I’ll be careful.”
Jiang Yan nodded, knowing that these were decisions made by Wan Yue a few hours ago, indicating that in Wan Yue’s eyes, the situation in C City was still controllable, which calmed her heart a bit.
As for why Wan Yue was so concerned about the situation in northern Myanmar, persisting with the mission south despite the current perilous circumstances, Jiang Yan couldn’t quite grasp the underlying intent for now.
Due to the border blockade, Jiang Yan had already stayed in B City for over twenty-four hours and had no indication of whether the news from the Wang family would reach the Luo family, prompting a strategic retreat and leaving Guo Hao and others isolated in northern Myanmar.
Yet Jiang Yan still had to follow Wan Yue’s instructions to continue her investigation and support mission in northern Myanmar, and not just that.
However, it could be imagined that the forthcoming northern Myanmar Old Street would become the next focal point for the behind-the-scenes conspirators. Perhaps Wan Yue hoped Jiang Yan could buy some time.
Looking out at the pale morning sky, Jiang Yan shook off her drowsiness, stood up, got dressed, and decided to head down to see the few who remained here from the Xiang family.
Outside the door, a familiar presence appeared; Meng Huai had also gotten up early. After a moment’s thought, Jiang Yan set down the clothes she was holding and walked over to open the door.
“The atmosphere feels off; downstairs, close the shop doors.”
Meng Huai scanned Jiang Yan, who was wearing a silk nightgown, his gaze momentarily distracted by the white skin visible under her neck and the graceful curves of her chest, before returning to a composed demeanor.
“Meng Huai, Sister Wan and Elder Jin’s operation last night to ambush the Black Dragon Society has failed…”
Looking at the staircase outside, Jiang Yan pulled Meng Huai quickly inside, closed the door, and recounted the information she had received in full detail.
In just a few seconds, from shock to frowning, and finally to silence, Meng Huai’s expression shifted several times.
“With Brother Xiang dead, the people here will panic. Sister Wan’s implication is that something unexpected might occur… the Wang family has sustained heavy losses, and there is no longer mutual trust with Dark Arrow. Even Sister Wan may be monitored by the Seekers.”
“Starting from the Liang family, the hidden hands are gradually severing the internal connections within the country…”
Jiang Yan sat back down on the edge of the bed, looking down and unconsciously twirling a strand of her hair, her tone revealing a hint of nervousness.
“Being played by the Black Dragon Society is a twofold trap…” Meng Huai moved to the window, pulling back a corner of the curtain to scrutinize the scene outside, “So, should we continue south or return immediately?”
Saying this, Meng Huai approached Jiang Yan, bending down to observe her elegant hair and the delicate shoulders revealed by her straps, slowly squatting down: “Right now, stabilizing hearts and minds is the priority. You are the highest-ranking person here, and due to Sister Wan’s influence, I see their attitude towards you is quite favorable.”
Jiang Yan raised her head, a fleeting glimmer of gratitude in her eyes: “Yes, you’re right, we can’t be flustered; we must continue with the task Sister Wan entrusted us!”
Meng Huai changed his equipment before heading down.
Afterward, Jiang Yan immediately walked towards the corner of her room where her suitcase was.
“What equipment?”
Meng Huai paused, watching Jiang Yan’s actions with some confusion.
“The operational gear for heading south; yours is also in your room, they prepared it yesterday… what are you standing there for? I need to change my clothes!”
Jiang Yan retrieved a set of gray-black attire from her suitcase, and when she turned around, she found Meng Huai still in a daze.
Half an hour later, the two bedrooms on the third floor opened simultaneously, and Jiang Yan and Meng Huai emerged fully armed, encountering each other in the stairwell.
Merely varying in color from the standard battle gear of the Freesia, the style and details were largely similar.
The gray-black combat suits, paired with deep blue tactical jackets and dark black alloy chest armor, with various tactical gear hanging from their waists and thighs.
One was slender and graceful, poised and dashing; the other tall and proportional, composed and commanding.
Upon reaching the first floor, the three young men currently sitting in the hall were stunned, then quickly rose to their feet, staring intently at the man and woman coming down the stairs.
The shop’s doors had already been closed, seemingly indicating those left behind had prioritized their duties, even the hall lights were left off, resulting in dim lighting.
“Jiang Jie… are you planning to leave?”
The one leading was a familiar mid-level knight from the Wang family, with two others behind him, all clearly flustered as they gazed eagerly at the pair in battle gear.
“You should understand that Sister Wan is Brother Xiang’s junior sister, and she regards Brother Luo as her elder brother.”
“I consider myself a disciple of Sister Wan. Age and realm aside, I share the same background as the three of you; calling each other brothers and sisters is entirely unproblematic.”
“I have already made contact with Sister Wan and Brother Luo; I will be in charge here temporarily. Xiao Hai, shut the doors and cease business; if there are any other personnel left in B City, gather them here and continue with the task of assisting Brother Luo!”
Jiang Yan stepped to the center of the hall, turning to face the three direct descendants of the Xiang family, her tone particularly calm. Meanwhile, Meng Huai, still standing at the top of the stairs, maintained a steady composure, eyes straight ahead.
In Y Province, B City only has the three of us knights, and with two attendants stationed in K City’s safehouse, there are no others… The Luo family has severed contact with us, it will be nearly impossible to head to Old Street through them. Jiang Jie, what’s next? I’ll follow your lead!”
Having personally witnessed Jiang Yan’s prowess in Old Street, the young man known as Xiao Hai stepped forward first, bowing his head slightly.
Xiao Hai, the mid-level knight from the Wang family who had previously collaborated with Jiang Yan, found that the other two lower-ranking knights also looked to him for leadership, making his words represent the united stance of the three.
“Abandon the safehouse in K City; bring back both personnel and supplies. Additionally, here, hide away all items that could potentially expose our identities; only take what we need.”
“From now on, aside from Brother Luo, ignore anyone who contacts you under the banner of the Seekers or Wang family and issues orders!”
“The specific tactical command will be handled by Meng… by Li Qing. If we encounter anyone above the rank of baron blocking our path, I’ll handle it. Everyone, go to a state of alert, ready to set out at any time.”
“Also, Xiao Hai, contact the other brothers and sisters from the Wang family who had previously followed Brother Xiang; those willing to continue with Brother Luo are to gather here. Those unwilling don’t need to be forced.”
Jiang Yan’s gentle yet firm voice resonated quietly within the closed hall, seemingly filled with a magical power, gradually stabilizing the emotions of Xiao Hai and the other two, prompting them to dash upstairs.
“I can only do this much; Meng Huai, you know the southwestern border better than we do, so it’ll rely on you moving forward. I hope you can lead us out smoothly… I suspect the Luo family already knows about the Wang family’s situation and will start acting cautiously, so they won’t concern themselves with us.”
Jiang Yan stepped in front of Meng Huai, hesitating for a moment before reaching out as if to adjust a piece of equipment at his waist, her voice lowered.
“I don’t want to question Sister Wan’s arrangements, and I believe in her judgment of the situation, so I hope you understand my decision; we must continue to Old Street.”
Holding onto a small item on his belt, Jiang Yan raised her head to meet Meng Huai’s eyes, showing a hint of anticipation.
“Mm.”
A few seconds later, Meng Huai gently nodded, then took half a step forward, summoning his courage to embrace Jiang Yan, awkwardly patting her back as if reassuring her like he had done in the underground hall.
Jiang Yan shivered slightly but did not reject it, quietly leaning against Meng Huai’s chest, feeling a sense of comfort.
Could it be that one day I fantasized about Meng Huai becoming the tactical commander of the Freesia, and it is now coming true? Feeling his steady heartbeat, Jiang Yan closed her eyes.
Rest assured, I will do my utmost… there’s no rush, let’s gather more information about the situation along the border before determining our exit route.”
After about ten seconds, Meng Huai released Jiang Yan, his tone surprisingly gentle: “Now, we must remain calm; leave the rest to me.”
With that, Meng Huai gave a faint smile and walked upstairs.
Seeing Meng Huai’s leisurely pace as he ascended, Jiang Yan gradually relaxed her tense heart.
…
…
At noon, at the Freesia Manor.
In Jiang Yan’s room, Zhong Jing, Zheng Shaolin, and Xiao Ling were all gathered around Jiang Yan’s bed, each with a solemn expression.
“Zhao Ge’s intention is that once Xiao Quan completes her promotion to knight, I will head to the old street in northern Myanmar with Liang Qin to rendezvous with Xiao Lin. Xiao Lin, at that time, Xiao Quan will stay behind to assist you; you’ll need to manage the daily operations of the Freesia Manor. If there’s anything you don’t understand, please consult Xiao Ai or Zhao Ge.”
“Xiao Yao, Sister Wan’s directive is that your aura hasn’t returned to normal, so you cannot expose yourself; just stay here and recuperate, help stabilize the situation.”
“Zhong Jing, if convenient, please keep Xiao Yao company here.”
Zheng Shaolin scanned the group, his tone calm.
As the oldest and most senior knight of the Freesia present, Zheng Shaolin naturally took on the role of providing reassurance while implementing arrangements.
“Shaolin Ge, your rank hasn’t returned; did something happen? Why is it that as soon as Xiao Bing leaves, you all hasten towards northern Myanmar?”
Xiao Ling appeared a bit pale, gripping Zheng Shaolin’s arm tightly, her panic evident.
Just follow Sister Wan’s directives. When we first started, who didn’t frequently venture far? It’s only in these last few years that things have settled somewhat.
Now that Zhao Ge is a baron, what can’t be addressed by Sister Wan and Zhao Ge? It’s just a small issue, nothing to worry about.
Zheng Shaolin chuckled as he comfortingly hugged Xiao Ling’s shoulders, maintaining a relaxed expression. He was aware of the inside story behind the Wang family and Alliance of Seekers’ joint operations but couldn’t reveal it to Xiao Ling, so he lightly joked to alleviate her anxiety.
Before long, the room was left with only Jiang Yan and Zhong Jing.
Jiang Yan was kneeling on the bed, wearing a backless dress resembling a Latin dance outfit, revealing a bandaged area on her back. At this moment, Jiang Yan’s expression was somewhat peculiar, as if deep in thought.
“You’re clever enough to wear something like this during your recovery… Earlier, Zheng Ge meant that the master has already forgiven you for your last incident.”
Zhong Jing picked up fruit from the table, preparing to peel it, his smile indicating a casual gaze towards her attire.
“No, your brother is accompanying sister to northern Myanmar; soon, Zheng Ge and Uncle Liang will go too… Something big must have happened!”
Jiang Yan suddenly furrowed her brows, grabbing Zhong Jing’s arm directly, her expression turning serious: “Zhong Jing, do you know something?”
In truth, Jiang Yan was quite perceptive; she had long sensed something was off about Zheng Shaolin… Zhong Jing remained silent, simply observing the girl before him, silently taken aback.
Is Zhao Peng now giving orders? Did something happen to Sister Wan and her?
From Zhong Jing’s expression, Jiang Yan felt as if she comprehended something, and she panicked.
The Wang family and the Alliance of Seekers have had some issues; it seems the Freesia will need to act alone in the near future.
Zhong Jing chuckled, reaching out to smooth Jiang Yan’s unruly hair, his tone light-hearted: “But just relax; the master is fine, and Zhao Ge is a genuine baron now; as long as the sky doesn’t fall, we can manage.”
Jiang Yan’s gaze swept over the young man without speaking, likely assessing the truthfulness of his words, the atmosphere in the room growing a bit tense.
Zhong Jing, you should head back; perhaps Sister Wan will need your help as well, no need to stay with me.”
A minute later, Jiang Yan suddenly spoke up, sitting up straight and expressing herself seriously, as if making a decision.
Hmm?
Zhong Jing, who was peeling fruit, found himself baffled by Jiang Yan’s suddenly “understanding” demeanor.
“I’m not a child; I know troublesome matters are afoot. I need to adjust my aura as quickly as possible and practice the techniques Sister Wan assigned.”
“I can help Sister Wan and my elder sister safeguard this home.”
With that, Jiang Yan snatched the half-peeled fruit from Zhong Jing’s hands, took a large bite, and chewed industriously.
Good.
At that moment, Jiang Yan’s adorable appearance warmed Zhong Jing’s heart, and he couldn’t help but reach out to gently ruffle her hair again.
She simply doesn’t want others to impose notions on her; in reality, like her master, Zhao Ge, and Jiang Yan, she deeply cares about her own integrity… Zhong Jing smiled, crossing his arms, enjoying the view of her eating like a hamster.
Hug me.
After finishing the fruit, Jiang Yan tossed aside the core and opened her arms, her face flushed with a mischievous smile.
What are you trying to do?
Zhong Jing stood up, becoming vigilant and taking two steps back.
I sensed something off last time and want to correct it; hurry!
Jiang Yan grinned, closing her eyes in anticipation.
Not a chance.
Seconds later, Zhong Jing turned and walked towards the door.
Suddenly, a considerable force impacted his back as a light figure pressed against him, arms tightly wrapping around his neck, causing Zhong Jing nearly to stumble.
Jiang Yan jumped onto Zhong Jing’s back, her body pressed closely against his, nestled her face against the back of his head, and looked utterly content.
Zhong Jing, just like this, carry me to the waterfall for a walk; don’t let go!
Jiang Yan closed her eyes, nuzzling against Zhong Jing’s hair and speaking softly.
The corners of Zhong Jing’s mouth curved upwards slightly; he said nothing, holding on casually while tightening his grip on Jiang Yan’s legs.
Zhong Jing carried Jiang Yan down the elevator and passed through the small square of the Freesia Manor, heading towards the waterfall, drawing countless glances and whispers from the little blood servants along the way.
The spring water cascaded down like thunder, stirring up layers of white foam in the pool.
Feeling a bit tired, Zhong Jing could only sit down on a large rock, but Jiang Yan showed no intention of getting off.
Zhong Jing, am I very special, even more so than Sister?
Jiang Yan suddenly asked softly, her body slightly trembling.
You’re all equally special.
Zhong Jing replied nonchalantly.
I know you, my sister, and Sister Wan have concealed many things from me… Zhong Jing, are they so tolerant that I’ll die soon?
An inexplicable sense of crisis had been swirling in Jiang Yan’s mind since entering that strange realm, especially today.
Why do you think that?
Zhong Jing asked, slightly puzzled, turning his head back.
In these past few months, it feels like the whole world has become increasingly restless, and I can’t help but wonder if it’s related to me… Sister Wan once mentioned that one day I would see the secrets and truths within my sister and me, but it seems I still don’t fully know…
Jiang Yan loosened her grip on Zhong Jing’s neck slightly, her body still wiggling as she sought the most comfortable position to lean against.
It won’t happen; don’t overthink it.
Zhong Jing hesitated for several seconds, and when her body had calmed down, he chose to respond nonchalantly to her earlier question.
Jiang Yan, I really want to move into the new house soon; that is our first real home, not living under someone else’s roof, following their rules and whims…
Zhong Jing, you must like me; I know, in my dreams, that’s how you’ve always felt…
Jiang Yan, it’s Women’s Day today; it’s my first time celebrating it, and you haven’t wished me a happy holiday yet, nor brought me any gifts…
Rambling softly, she poured out her feelings with growing quietness, her body growing increasingly relaxed.
Mm, happy Women’s Day.
Zhong Jing muttered, but the girl behind him made no response, only breathing heavily, seemingly fallen asleep.
At this moment, if Wan Yue or Jiang Yan were present, they would notice that the strange aura surrounding Jiang Yan, which was like a black hole, had quietly dissipated, restoring her to the state of a half-step baron.
Zhong Jing felt himself surrounded by an unusual dark fragrance, filled with allure.
