The Poorly Drawn Map
Yan Ge was initially curious about how Song Chaobang managed to push Huangfu Yuchen to the point of making the decision to banish Song Ruhao to the Cold Palace. So, he released his spiritual consciousness to eavesdrop on the conversation between Song Ruhao and Song Chaobang.
Unexpectedly, he happened to hear the words, ‘Once your sister captures the Emperor’s attention’, causing him to instantly spray the tea he had just drunk all over Huangfu Yuchen’s face.
Huangfu Yuchen looked at him speechlessly, Yan Ge reached out to wipe his face while connecting his spiritual consciousness with Huangfu Yuchen’s.
Huangfu Yuchen’s eyes narrowed, and in the next instant, his figure disappeared from the room.
Song Chaobang stared dumbfounded at Huangfu Yuchen, who had suddenly pushed the door open.
Huangfu Yuchen spoke lightly, “The Grand Tutor is getting older and not suitable for long journeys. Let him return to the capital together with Song Guiren.”
Song Ruhao spat out a mouthful of blood and fainted on the bed.
Song Chaobang’s face went pale and he knelt weakly on the ground, his lips trembling, “Your Majesty, thank you for your grace—”
Huangfu Yuchen left without even Giving him a second look.
The next morning, as the team prepared to set off, two people were missing.
Jiang Gan and the others were puzzled, but since Huangfu Yuchen and Yan Ge didn’t mention it, they didn’t ask either. They would handle things accordingly.
Jun Xiang took the final version of the modified plan, which had been revised by Yan Ge, and found the record keeper.
“Your Excellency.”
Jun Xiang handed the plan to him, saying, “The future development of Shuangque County can follow the instructions in the plan. When I return to the capital, I may pass through this place again. If I find that Shuangque County hasn’t shown any improvement—”
The record keeper accepted the plan with both hands and spoke earnestly, “I will do everything in my power to develop Shuangque County. If I fail to do so, I will willingly resign!”
“Alright.”
Jun Xiang quickly caught up with the convoy.
The convoy continued its journey south. With Song Ruhao’s absence, Yan Jin’s mood became even more cheerful than Yan Ge’s, as he happily sang nursery rhymes. His childish voice could be heard even from the first carriage where Yan Ge was seated.
“If you love me, then stay with me—”
Jiang Gan, who had a soft spot for children, played along, “Alright, I’ll stay with you.”
“If you love me, then kiss me—”
“Alright, I’ll kiss you—”
The two of them bantered back and forth, like a duet.
“If you love me, then praise me… hehe…”
“Alright, I’ll praise you. Our baby is both smart and adorable!”
“If you love me, then hug me…”
“Alright, I’ll hug you…”
“If you truly love me, then stay, stay with me…”
The people beside the carriage couldn’t help but reveal a knowing smile on their faces.
After passing through two small counties, the convoy finally arrived at Chaoyang City, one of the ten famous cities in the Great Han Kingdom. Along the way, they often saw pedestrians dressed like martial artists, carrying swords and knives. Some were even in groups, dressed in similar attire, their faces filled with excitement, as if something good was about to happen.
Yan Ge curiously looked outside and called Gao Feng over. “Go and inquire about it.”
“Yes.”
Huangfu Yuchen said to Yan Ge, “Let’s settle down first. We’ll know what’s going on when Gao Feng returns.”
Yan Ge said, “From what I can see, we have already stepped into the martial world.”
Huangfu Yuchen nodded. “Indeed, Chaoyang City is one of the gathering places for martial artists.”
After half a cup of tea, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen had settled in the deluxe suite of the inn. The suite had a small living room on the outside and a bedroom inside.
Jian Gan, Yang Zhuo, and the others were also interested and were waiting for news in Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen’s room.
Just as the tea cups were served, Gao Feng returned.
“Young Master, Madam, there is indeed a major event happening in the martial world!” Gao Feng, infected by the excitement of the martial artists outside, also looked excited.
Yan Ge asked, “What’s going on?”
“Here’s what happened. Within the borders of the Mai kingdom, there is a mysterious valley called ‘Thunder Valley.’ The valley is constantly bombarded by thunder and lightning, and no one dares to approach it. But about a month ago, for some unknown reason, the thunder and lightning attacks became less frequent, and every few days, the thunder and lightning would disappear without a trace. Some bold herb gatherers entered the valley and saw the legendary Zhantian Vine. A few hundred years ago, there were ancient books that mentioned that drinking the juice of the Zhantian Vine can greatly increase one’s martial arts power. What do martial artists pursue? Isn’t it to improve their martial skills and roam the world? After hearing this news, the entire martial world boiled with excitement. People gathered together to discuss and plan to set off for Mai kingdom to seize the Zhantian Vine. It’s not just our Great Han Kingdom; martial artists from the surrounding kingdoms have also heard the news and are rushing over as soon as possible.”
Jiang Gan asked, “If it appeared a month ago, why did they decide to go see it now?”
Gao Feng’s expression became somewhat strange. “More than one person has seen the Zhantian Vine, but each time they saw it, its location was different. They suspect that the Zhantian Vine may have developed intelligence. Without complete preparation, it’s difficult to capture it.”
Jiang Gan was incredulous, “Isn’t that similar to the Ginseng Doll?”
Gao Feng shrugged, indicating that he couldn’t explain it clearly.
Huangfu Yuchen noticed Yan Ge’s unusual expression and asked, “What’s wrong?”
Yan Ge said, “Let’s go and seize the vine too!” While Jiang Gan doubted the power of the Zhantian Vine, he knew it well. Because after completing a side mission given by the system once, he received the reward of the Zhantian Vine! The miraculous effect of the Zhantian Vine was undeniable. Since there was such a treasure, it was only natural to seize it for their own use.
If it belonged to another kingdom, they couldn’t let it slip away either.
“Very well.” Since leaving the palace, Yan Ge rarely took the initiative to ask for anything, so Huangfu Yuchen gladly agreed.
Yan Ge asked, “What about the original plan?”
Huangfu Yuchen had his own ideas. “Master Jiang, you can continue heading south with the others. I don’t think I need to say much about what you should do along the way.”
Jiang Gan said, “Rest assured, Young Master. I will pay attention to the livelihood of the people and take note of what I see and hear. I will also try to find opportunities for development for some less-developed towns according to Madam’s business model.”
Deng Mande felt something was amiss. “Young Master, don’t tell me you and Madam plan to go alone?”
Yang Zhuo was also worried. “Young Master, why not let Guard Feng and Guard Yun accompany you? They have been with Madam for so long, so their cooperation with Madam and Young Master is more tacit.”
Huangfu Yuchen said, “My wife and I will bring Yan Jin with us. We won’t bring anyone else.”
Yan Ge also said, “You can rest assured. With my and Chen Chen’s skills, it’s more efficient to act alone.”
He firmly adhered to the policy of calling Huangfu Yuchen “Chen Chen” whenever the other party called him “Madam” or “wife”.
“Ahem, ahem…” Several people coughed and looked down at the ground.
Huangfu Yuchen leaned close to Yan Ge’s ear and said, “I don’t mind how you address me, but you can call me ‘Husband.’”
Yan Ge smiled at him. “I can also call you Little Chen.”
The way of addressing each other had always been unresolved between them.
Huangfu Yuchen compromised, “As you wish. Ahem. This matter is settled. Our final destination is Lanhai City. You should leave clues along the way, and my wife and I will catch up after we finish our tasks. If it takes too long, we will also meet you in Lanhai City, so don’t worry.”
“Yes.”
After Gao Yun inquired about the specific location of Thunder Valley, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen didn’t delay any further. They mounted their horses and set off with determination.
While others needed to join forces to enter Thunder Valley, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen had the confidence to venture alone. Now, the most important thing was to seize the opportunity. Even though they were confident in their ability to obtain the Zhantian Vine when others arrived, there was the risk of drawing unwanted attention if people found out they possessed it.
With no one else around, Yan Jin didn’t need to pretend to be a child all the time. When they reached the deserted wilderness, his bottom started to ache from riding the horse, so he simply flew.
Yan Ge thought to himself, ‘Fortunately, there is no radar in this era. Otherwise, chaos would break out if people saw a six-year-old child flying in the sky.’
The two fast horses galloped along the official road in the woods. Huangfu Yuchen reined in his horse and said, “Baby, wait.”
Yan Ge pulled on the reins, and the black steed neighed before coming to a halt. He turned around and asked, “What’s the matter?”
Yan Jin also popped his head out from Yan Ge’s embrace, looking puzzled.
Huangfu Yuchen rode his horse to Yan Ge’s side and said, “According to Gao Feng, if we push ourselves and ride day and night, we should be able to reach Senyun County, which is about three days to the west of here. But we’re not there yet. Baby, are you sure the route you indicated is correct?”
Yan Ge stroked his chin and took out the map. “Let me see…” In fact, on this journey, they occasionally encountered several martial artists riding horses in the opposite direction, which gave him a bad feeling.
Seeing Yan Ge’s eyes darting around, Huangfu Yuchen knew he was feeling guilty. He chuckled inwardly and calmly crossed his arms, observing how long Yan Ge would keep up the act.
Yan Ge felt that the telepathic connection between him and Huangfu Yuchen was becoming stronger. Even without looking at him, he knew he was laughing. He turned his head and said, “It’s not my fault, really. Blame this ancient map for being so poorly drawn and unclear.”
“Hehe…” Huangfu Yuchen chuckled softly and took the map from Yan Ge’s hand. “Let me take a look.”
Yan Ge tried to salvage his pride. “You take a look. In the future, if I get the chance, I’ll improve maps for the whole kingdom.”
Huangfu Yuchen quickly dissuaded him. “Absolutely not, baby. If you were to do that, it would be as if you’ve given other kingdoms a divine guide for invading us.”
“True.” Yan Ge snapped his fingers. “I can improve maps for other kingdoms!”
Huangfu Yuchen encouraged him with a doting expression. “Your husband will definitely support you!”
“So, do we need to turn back?” Yan Jin asked.
The Poorly Drawn Map
Yan Ge was initially curious about how Song Chaobang managed to push Huangfu Yuchen to the point of making the decision to banish Song Ruhao to the Cold Palace. So, he released his spiritual consciousness to eavesdrop on the conversation between Song Ruhao and Song Chaobang.
Unexpectedly, he happened to hear the words, ‘Once your sister captures the Emperor’s attention’, causing him to instantly spray the tea he had just drunk all over Huangfu Yuchen’s face.
Huangfu Yuchen looked at him speechlessly, Yan Ge reached out to wipe his face while connecting his spiritual consciousness with Huangfu Yuchen’s.
Huangfu Yuchen’s eyes narrowed, and in the next instant, his figure disappeared from the room.
Song Chaobang stared dumbfounded at Huangfu Yuchen, who had suddenly pushed the door open.
Huangfu Yuchen spoke lightly, “The Grand Tutor is getting older and not suitable for long journeys. Let him return to the capital together with Song Guiren.”
Song Ruhao spat out a mouthful of blood and fainted on the bed.
Song Chaobang’s face went pale and he knelt weakly on the ground, his lips trembling, “Your Majesty, thank you for your grace—”
Huangfu Yuchen left without even Giving him a second look.
The next morning, as the team prepared to set off, two people were missing.
Jiang Gan and the others were puzzled, but since Huangfu Yuchen and Yan Ge didn’t mention it, they didn’t ask either. They would handle things accordingly.
Jun Xiang took the final version of the modified plan, which had been revised by Yan Ge, and found the record keeper.
“Your Excellency.”
Jun Xiang handed the plan to him, saying, “The future development of Shuangque County can follow the instructions in the plan. When I return to the capital, I may pass through this place again. If I find that Shuangque County hasn’t shown any improvement—”
The record keeper accepted the plan with both hands and spoke earnestly, “I will do everything in my power to develop Shuangque County. If I fail to do so, I will willingly resign!”
“Alright.”
Jun Xiang quickly caught up with the convoy.
The convoy continued its journey south. With Song Ruhao’s absence, Yan Jin’s mood became even more cheerful than Yan Ge’s, as he happily sang nursery rhymes. His childish voice could be heard even from the first carriage where Yan Ge was seated.
“If you love me, then stay with me—”
Jiang Gan, who had a soft spot for children, played along, “Alright, I’ll stay with you.”
“If you love me, then kiss me—”
“Alright, I’ll kiss you—”
The two of them bantered back and forth, like a duet.
“If you love me, then praise me… hehe…”
“Alright, I’ll praise you. Our baby is both smart and adorable!”
“If you love me, then hug me…”
“Alright, I’ll hug you…”
“If you truly love me, then stay, stay with me…”
The people beside the carriage couldn’t help but reveal a knowing smile on their faces.
After passing through two small counties, the convoy finally arrived at Chaoyang City, one of the ten famous cities in the Great Han Kingdom. Along the way, they often saw pedestrians dressed like martial artists, carrying swords and knives. Some were even in groups, dressed in similar attire, their faces filled with excitement, as if something good was about to happen.
Yan Ge curiously looked outside and called Gao Feng over. “Go and inquire about it.”
“Yes.”
Huangfu Yuchen said to Yan Ge, “Let’s settle down first. We’ll know what’s going on when Gao Feng returns.”
Yan Ge said, “From what I can see, we have already stepped into the martial world.”
Huangfu Yuchen nodded. “Indeed, Chaoyang City is one of the gathering places for martial artists.”
After half a cup of tea, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen had settled in the deluxe suite of the inn. The suite had a small living room on the outside and a bedroom inside.
Jian Gan, Yang Zhuo, and the others were also interested and were waiting for news in Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen’s room.
Just as the tea cups were served, Gao Feng returned.
“Young Master, Madam, there is indeed a major event happening in the martial world!” Gao Feng, infected by the excitement of the martial artists outside, also looked excited.
Yan Ge asked, “What’s going on?”
“Here’s what happened. Within the borders of the Mai kingdom, there is a mysterious valley called ‘Thunder Valley.’ The valley is constantly bombarded by thunder and lightning, and no one dares to approach it. But about a month ago, for some unknown reason, the thunder and lightning attacks became less frequent, and every few days, the thunder and lightning would disappear without a trace. Some bold herb gatherers entered the valley and saw the legendary Zhantian Vine. A few hundred years ago, there were ancient books that mentioned that drinking the juice of the Zhantian Vine can greatly increase one’s martial arts power. What do martial artists pursue? Isn’t it to improve their martial skills and roam the world? After hearing this news, the entire martial world boiled with excitement. People gathered together to discuss and plan to set off for Mai kingdom to seize the Zhantian Vine. It’s not just our Great Han Kingdom; martial artists from the surrounding kingdoms have also heard the news and are rushing over as soon as possible.”
Jiang Gan asked, “If it appeared a month ago, why did they decide to go see it now?”
Gao Feng’s expression became somewhat strange. “More than one person has seen the Zhantian Vine, but each time they saw it, its location was different. They suspect that the Zhantian Vine may have developed intelligence. Without complete preparation, it’s difficult to capture it.”
Jiang Gan was incredulous, “Isn’t that similar to the Ginseng Doll?”
Gao Feng shrugged, indicating that he couldn’t explain it clearly.
Huangfu Yuchen noticed Yan Ge’s unusual expression and asked, “What’s wrong?”
Yan Ge said, “Let’s go and seize the vine too!” While Jiang Gan doubted the power of the Zhantian Vine, he knew it well. Because after completing a side mission given by the system once, he received the reward of the Zhantian Vine! The miraculous effect of the Zhantian Vine was undeniable. Since there was such a treasure, it was only natural to seize it for their own use.
If it belonged to another kingdom, they couldn’t let it slip away either.
“Very well.” Since leaving the palace, Yan Ge rarely took the initiative to ask for anything, so Huangfu Yuchen gladly agreed.
Yan Ge asked, “What about the original plan?”
Huangfu Yuchen had his own ideas. “Master Jiang, you can continue heading south with the others. I don’t think I need to say much about what you should do along the way.”
Jiang Gan said, “Rest assured, Young Master. I will pay attention to the livelihood of the people and take note of what I see and hear. I will also try to find opportunities for development for some less-developed towns according to Madam’s business model.”
Deng Mande felt something was amiss. “Young Master, don’t tell me you and Madam plan to go alone?”
Yang Zhuo was also worried. “Young Master, why not let Guard Feng and Guard Yun accompany you? They have been with Madam for so long, so their cooperation with Madam and Young Master is more tacit.”
Huangfu Yuchen said, “My wife and I will bring Yan Jin with us. We won’t bring anyone else.”
Yan Ge also said, “You can rest assured. With my and Chen Chen’s skills, it’s more efficient to act alone.”
He firmly adhered to the policy of calling Huangfu Yuchen “Chen Chen” whenever the other party called him “Madam” or “wife”.
“Ahem, ahem…” Several people coughed and looked down at the ground.
Huangfu Yuchen leaned close to Yan Ge’s ear and said, “I don’t mind how you address me, but you can call me ‘Husband.’”
Yan Ge smiled at him. “I can also call you Little Chen.”
The way of addressing each other had always been unresolved between them.
Huangfu Yuchen compromised, “As you wish. Ahem. This matter is settled. Our final destination is Lanhai City. You should leave clues along the way, and my wife and I will catch up after we finish our tasks. If it takes too long, we will also meet you in Lanhai City, so don’t worry.”
“Yes.”
After Gao Yun inquired about the specific location of Thunder Valley, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen didn’t delay any further. They mounted their horses and set off with determination.
While others needed to join forces to enter Thunder Valley, Yan Ge and Huangfu Yuchen had the confidence to venture alone. Now, the most important thing was to seize the opportunity. Even though they were confident in their ability to obtain the Zhantian Vine when others arrived, there was the risk of drawing unwanted attention if people found out they possessed it.
With no one else around, Yan Jin didn’t need to pretend to be a child all the time. When they reached the deserted wilderness, his bottom started to ache from riding the horse, so he simply flew.
Yan Ge thought to himself, ‘Fortunately, there is no radar in this era. Otherwise, chaos would break out if people saw a six-year-old child flying in the sky.’
The two fast horses galloped along the official road in the woods. Huangfu Yuchen reined in his horse and said, “Baby, wait.”
Yan Ge pulled on the reins, and the black steed neighed before coming to a halt. He turned around and asked, “What’s the matter?”
Yan Jin also popped his head out from Yan Ge’s embrace, looking puzzled.
Huangfu Yuchen rode his horse to Yan Ge’s side and said, “According to Gao Feng, if we push ourselves and ride day and night, we should be able to reach Senyun County, which is about three days to the west of here. But we’re not there yet. Baby, are you sure the route you indicated is correct?”
Yan Ge stroked his chin and took out the map. “Let me see…” In fact, on this journey, they occasionally encountered several martial artists riding horses in the opposite direction, which gave him a bad feeling.
Seeing Yan Ge’s eyes darting around, Huangfu Yuchen knew he was feeling guilty. He chuckled inwardly and calmly crossed his arms, observing how long Yan Ge would keep up the act.
Yan Ge felt that the telepathic connection between him and Huangfu Yuchen was becoming stronger. Even without looking at him, he knew he was laughing. He turned his head and said, “It’s not my fault, really. Blame this ancient map for being so poorly drawn and unclear.”
“Hehe…” Huangfu Yuchen chuckled softly and took the map from Yan Ge’s hand. “Let me take a look.”
Yan Ge tried to salvage his pride. “You take a look. In the future, if I get the chance, I’ll improve maps for the whole kingdom.”
Huangfu Yuchen quickly dissuaded him. “Absolutely not, baby. If you were to do that, it would be as if you’ve given other kingdoms a divine guide for invading us.”
“True.” Yan Ge snapped his fingers. “I can improve maps for other kingdoms!”
Huangfu Yuchen encouraged him with a doting expression. “Your husband will definitely support you!”
“So, do we need to turn back?” Yan Jin asked.
