Ch. 441The sun rose over West Mountain
Chu Xisheng reviewed the gang’s recent missions, ordered it to advance into Fei Province, and revealed plans to reorganize its forces while hidden rivals weighed their chances against him. He then rejected the Imperial Court’s proposal to fight Extreme Eastern Ice City and left Cao Xuan alarmed by the possibility that the Iron Banner Gang might be branded rebellious.
- Wan Fengqing, Gu Mingyue, and the others reported their missions, and Chu Xisheng praised their measured methods while warning Ba Tianlai and Feng Liancheng about harming innocents.
- Chu Xisheng ordered the Iron Banner Gang to move west into Fei Province within six days, explaining that Clear Wind Bright Moon Tower had agreed to let the gang confront the Water and Heaven Society.
- Chu Xisheng announced plans for new subsidiary halls, four great War Halls, and the Seven Protectors of War, stirring thoughts of opportunity and betrayal among the protectors and guest retainers.
- After the others left, Cao Xuan questioned Chu Xisheng about his contacts with Xi Bitian, Extreme Eastern Ice City, and Wen Zhuyi; Chu Xisheng defended his actions and refused to help the Imperial Court attack Ice City.
- Chu Xisheng warned Cao Xuan that hidden factions threatened the Iron Banner Gang and raised the saying about Qin and Chu joining in marriage, leaving Cao Xuan afraid of what might happen if Chu Xisheng became a rebel.