Schemes and Calculations, Caishang Teaches Martial Arts

They led the horses on foot for more than ten miles, passing through dense mountain forests. Sunlight slanted down, a breeze swept over them, and the tree miasma blocking their way gradually thinned.

At last, they saw a narrow path suitable for carriages and horses.

The road ahead suddenly opened up.

The two mounted their horses separately and rode side by side along the path.

Li Xian held the reins and gently stroked his horse. Its coat was chestnut red, its fur sleek and lustrous, its body broad and sturdy. It was an exceptionally fine steed.

"Commander Li, this horse will be yours from now on," Ding Hu said enviously.

Li Xian nodded. "I want to know about the estate's recent affairs, large and small. Please tell me."

"I wouldn't dare, I wouldn't dare." Ding Hu said respectfully, "Whatever the commander wishes to know, I will tell you everything I know. I truly cannot bear that word 'please.'"

"Then tell me," Li Xian said casually.

Ding Hu proceeded to inform him of the estate's various circumstances, great and small. There had been countless matters lately: enemies causing trouble, refining Essence Treasures, struggles between factions—there was no shortage of any of it.

After another ten-odd miles, the road was paved with gravel and covered in sand. Once they reached the official road, travel became much easier. Li Xian lightly pressed his heels to the horse's flanks and shouted, "Hyah!" The horse's hooves flew, its speed astonishingly swift.

Li Xian's robes fluttered in the wind, and he felt incomparably carefree. Upon reaching a hilltop, he pulled the reins and brought the horse to a halt. Gazing upon the scenery between heaven and earth, his heart filled with endless emotion.

No matter what that madam intends.

*Whether the road ahead is good or