Li Chenzhou actually nodded readily, without the slightest hesitation. "I agree, but I also want you to promise me one thing, Commander-in-Chief. After I help rescue Liu Yucheng, you must ensure that he leaves Great Yong and never sets foot in its territory again for the rest of his life." His words were as decisive as a blade cleaving iron, leaving no room for negotiation.
Yuchi Chong secretly rejoiced. As long as Li Chenzhou would release Liu Yucheng, this was hardly a harsh condition. He stated his position in a low voice. "Once I settle this matter, I will immediately return to the Northern Frontier. As for Liu Yucheng, I will have him escorted out of Great Yong. If he ever appears in Great Yong's territory again, whether he lives or dies will be none of my concern."
Li Chenzhou smiled faintly. They had effectively reached an agreement. In truth, keeping Yuchi Chong placated was only a temporary expedient. Both Great Yong and he himself had to rely on Yuchi Chong to hold back the Black Hu People's invasion. Once he had stabilized the situation within Great Yong, his first move would be to strip Yuchi Chong of military authority and replace him with a trusted subordinate. By then, Yuchi Chong would have no value left.
Yuchi Chong asked again, "Why would the Prince of Yan want to harm me?"
Li Chenzhou said, "He may well be colluding with the Black Hu People!"
Zong Tang led Hu Xiaotian and Yuchi Pingting along a narrow path into the imperial woods. From the hillside, they looked toward the work shed. Li Chenzhou and Yuchi Chong had been talking for a long time, yet neither had emerged. Yuchi Pingting could not help worrying. "What are they talking about? Could Li Chenzhou be plotting