Feng Yu Jiu Tian Vol 3 Chapter 5

Notes:

To find a way out of an impasse – One of the war stratagems in Sun Zi’s Art of war, it means to fight for life in the face of death. 

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Feng Ming raised his hand to curb Li Er, he smirked at the Princess and asked, “Princess, have you heard of the saying ‘To fight with one’s back to the river?’” 

The Princess frowned, mumbling the phrase “To find a way out of an impasse?”

“Xi Rei’s art of war has never been shared with outsiders, for the Princess to not know the meaning behind these words it’s not surprising in the least.” Feng Ming laughed mockingly, he continued with some exaggeration, “ To be honest with you, Rong Tian’s scholarly knowledge outranks anyone living, he has penned over three hundred theories, and has written one hundred and eight art of war stratagems, the one I mentioned ‘To find a way out of an impasse’ Is number one hundred and seven. It’s nothing special compared to the rest.” 

“One hundred and eight stratagems?” Miao Guang’s eyes lit up. If Rong Tian was truly this powerful then it’s likely her brother had underestimated him. Miscalculating an enemy most likely leads to defeat, she had to report everything she learned back to her brother immediately. But she was still skeptical about Feng Ming’s words, “If Rong Tian’s war stratagems are on a completely different level, why hasn’t he made a move to annex the eleven countries?” 

“Do you think everyone is like your brother who enjoys toyingwith people’s lives?” Even though he knew of Rong Tian’s greater plans to take control one day, he held the man up on a saintly pedestal, speaking of him as a man of compassion while making Ruo Yan appear like an ambitious rapacious wolf.  

Feng Ming glanced at her, “Princess doesn’t believe Rong Tian’s stratagems are something to fear?” 

An unsavory grimace crossed her lips and she turned her face away from him. “King Ming can say whatever he likes.” 

“Hmm, well it doesn’t matter if you don’t want to believe my words.” Feng Ming continued, “One of the basic principles in warfare is to gage and verify your enemy’s strength before making a move.” 

“Blindly leading troops off to battle results in the aftermath of having no-one left to argue such poor decision.” The King smiled confidently. 

He was acting ad lib based on a biography about Zhu Ge Liang* and he shamelessly flaunted his knowledge in front of Miao Guang. 

“For a commander to be able to anticipate the victory or defeat in battles, there are factors he must examine. Firstly, which side has a stronger and more capable leader? Secondly, of the high-ranking military officers which side possesses the wisest and most skilled? Thirdly, in the ranks of officials and court advisors which side has the most intelligent aids? Fourth, which side has an abundance of army provisions? Fifth, which army has the highest caliber of trained soldiers? Six, which army has more endurance and can maintain formation better? Seven, what is the speed and pedigree of horses used by each side? Eight, which side has the most impenetrable stronghold on the battlefield? Nine, which sides would likely have better tricks in reserve? Ten, which side has the most fearful neighboring countries sharing its borders? Eleven, which side is wealthier? Twelve, who has the most stable living conditions for the common people? After drawing comparisons on these points, one can identify which army is strongest and which army is weakest. Ultimately, the winner and loser can be determined along these lines.” 

On his way from the Prince’s chambers he managed to recall some of the literature written on Zhu Ge Liang*. Being able to recite them in one go was a feat. He stood exalted and accomplished to see Miao Guang’s expression had soured. She looked very serious and concerned. Feng Ming couldn’t help but feel a little bit of glee inside his chest. 

Simple yet practical, this systematic way of thinking was becoming rare in war tactics. However, if Rong Tian’s military stratagems could be so easily penned and published, his knowledge and scope would have no comparable competition. Miao Guang was starting to think, if the country of Li was to truly start a war with Xi Rei, the consequence would be disastrous.

Miao Guang snuck a peek at the King, it was fortunate that he didn’t die from the poisoning, or Xi Rei would have retaliated and obliterated Li. 

The Empress smiled, “King Ming you’ve arrived.” She beckoned Xiang Fen to move a chair and situate it close to her and she pointed towards it.

“Take a seat.” 

“Yes, your Highness.” Feng Ming sat down dutifully.

“Xiang Fen, pour King Ming a cup of tea that was given as a tribute.” 

“Thank you, your Highness.”  

Why was the Empress so cordial today? Even when he was still an imposter posing as her son, he was never shown such gentle treatment. 

A faint smile appeared on the Empress’s face. “King Ming looks surprised, I was too. How could he treat his mother who has dedicated everything to him in such a manner?  He has threatened me more than once, first was after An Xun’s death and King Ming was unconscious. The second occasion was when I asked him to consider marriage.”

Feng Ming’s heart strings were plucked and this time wasn’t because of the Empress but for Rong Tian who has always kept silent on matters.   

The Empress rested the tea cup in her hands, she studied Feng Ming and let out a deep sigh, “King Ming is a rare beauty. You’ve won my son’s love and it is much stronger than what he has left for his own mother. If I was cruel enough, I should use this opportunity to strike you down. I can deal with the consequences later.” 

Feng Ming’s skin bristled, he quickly scanned for danger.

Seeing the change in temperament the Empress chuckled and whispered, “I can assure King Ming I would not act against Rong Tian’s orders. For his sake, I will not hurt King Ming. I summoned King Ming because I have a request.” 

Their conversation was finally coming down to business. Feng Ming quickly focused on the topic.

Feng Ming was speechless. “Old King Rong?”

He met eyes with the Empress and could sense the concerns she had over Rong Tian. All sorts of feelings welled up in Feng Ming’s heart as he couldn’t find any words to comfort her. 

He inadvertently recited, “The thread is in a loving mother's hand, a wanderlust son adorns her clothes. Closer and closer are the stitches, ‘He might be late, late in return, I fear.’ Blades of young grass demand, repayment for the Sun’s nurturing hand!” He sighed. 

“I understand the Empress’s goodwill, alas, pity the undying bonds of parental love! Take care Empress, Feng Ming will head back now.” He held the belt closely to his chest and gave her a wry smile before turning towards the exit. 

As Feng Ming left, the Empress watched on and murmured the poem he had given her, “The thread is in a loving mother's hand, a wanderlust son adorns her clothes...” 

Xiang Fen shifted to post herself beside the Empress, her eyes following Feng Ming’s disappearing figure. She spoke softly, “Usually there isn’t anything great about him but it is obvious our Great King has exceptional taste. It seems King Ming has a foothold but he would have to sacrifice

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Chapter end