Looking at the memorial Emperor Xuanwu handed him, Qin An felt the weight of it—and the beginnings of a headache.
The memorial's instructions were simple: Qin An was to visit the Desolate Forbidden Land.
But that forbidden land was nowhere near as simple as the memorial made it sound.
Among all the forbidden lands of the Holdouts, the Desolate Forbidden Land ranked near the top. It also commanded the greatest respect.
If it was not the strongest forbidden land, why was it held in such esteem?
Because long ago, its people had fought a Heavenly Demon invasion. Some had died, others had been wounded, and those who survived had been cursed for life.
At intervals, that curse subjected them to the agony of a heart consumed by flames.
It was the terrible price they had paid that inspired such reverence among their fellow Holdouts and gave them such standing.
Emperor Xuanwu's intent was clear: Qin An was to go to the Desolate Forbidden Land and win its people's support.
If he succeeded, the Holdouts who were still wavering might immediately join the Great Qian Kingdom's side.
Emperor Xuanwu had not gained the throne by being a fool. He was among the cleverest men under heaven.
Though anger had washed over his mind, he would not act rashly. He still weighed the benefits and dangers, hoping to settle the conflict without shedding blood.
That was Qin An's hope as well.
If he could win over some of those who remained undecided, the task ahead would become much easier. He could also deal more smoothly with the Holdouts who had taken the opposing side.
But Emperor Xuanwu had to decide whom to send to the forbidden land.
In the end, he thought of Qin An.
Only the man known as the "Savior"