The Unfolding Scheme: Li Yizhen's Defeat and Death (Part One)

Led by Yuchen, Su Che and the several Reverted Elixir cultivators climbed a high mountain together.

They were all cultivators. Though Yuchen did not use any flight technique to lead them, they were still light and nimble, covering several yards in a single step. In mere moments, they reached the summit.

The mountaintop was carpeted in emerald grass, with wildflowers still holding their buds. Yet none of them had any mind to admire the scenery. Every one of them looked down from the peak.

In the valley not far below, the troops flying Great Liang banners were clearly fending off enemies on all sides.

A force with white cloth bound around their heads charged out from behind, cutting off their retreat, while another force blocked their way ahead.

Many archers lay in ambush within the forests on both sides, loosing arrows sporadically. Every so often, several soldiers or officers of the imperial court were struck, crying out in agony.

The Great Liang troops were thrown into confusion for only a moment. They were, after all, regular imperial troops that had undergone training. Shield-bearers soon raised their shields high along both flanks, while spearmen lifted their long halberds. The front ranks halted, and the rear ranks pressed forward.

The marching column, originally stretched out like a single long snake, transformed into a circular formation under the command of military orders.

Atop the mountain, Yuchen flicked his folding fan, a broad smile tugging at his lips as he turned to Su Che.

"What does Mr. Liu think of these imperial troops?"

"I do not understand military strategy. I can only roughly tell that while the imperial troops advance and retreat properly, and there is no fault to pick in their response, they are still nothing but clay chickens and porcelain dogs." Su