Ten minutes earlier, the struggle in the West Sea had only just reached a temporary lull when fresh turmoil stirred within the Federation.
Stone Lone Mountain, Su Province.
An exceedingly inconspicuous black sedan climbed the winding mountain road, finally stopping outside a secluded residence far from any settlement. When the door opened, a smiling man stepped out, surveyed the scenery, and nodded appreciatively. "What a lovely place." The gracious woman waiting at the entrance was visibly pregnant, yet she waved her attendants aside and came forward herself. "To think Chairman Chen would dare come alone at a time like this. You certainly have courage."
"With an invitation from the venerable Mountain Duke, whose word is law throughout Su Province, how could I possibly show any disrespect? Especially now that our blood alliance has just been established."
Chen Xingzhou offered his hand in greeting. "How has the Mountain Duke been feeling lately?"
"...The same as ever. The doctor said he can only rest." The woman sighed softly. "Su Province has so much wind and dust. He couldn't come to greet you in person, so we had to trouble you to come all this way. Please don't take offense."
"Now that we've sworn a blood alliance, we're family. There's no need for such formalities."
Chen Xingzhou glanced around and remarked, "Still, this is a fine location. Perfect for an ambush."
The woman froze for a moment, only to see Chen Xingzhou smiling.
"Haha, just kidding. Shall we?"
He waved for the driver to wait outside, then followed a servant straight into the inner courtyard, finally arriving before the study.
"Please."
The study door opened with a push.
Unfortunately, the scene beyond had none of its former elegance. It had long since been converted into a sickroom. Surrounded by medical equipment, a withered