Chapter 213: Purify

Second Unit, stand down, Third Unit ahead. Victory or Demise! The phrases lacked conviction as Chu Tongzu fell again from the entrance traces, taking the proffered bucket of water to quench his burning thirst. Splashing what remained on his face to clean away the blood and sweat, he studied the battle traces in the hunt for flaws to shore up or exploit. Too lots of the former and never sufficient of the latter, his guards had been ill-suited for battle, however his troopers had been busy to the south. Bully was an apt moniker for these guards, women and men extra used to strutting in regards to the metropolis of their livery, coping with cargo inspections and home disputes somewhat than bandit raids or Defiled incursions. If not for his presence, these guards would have lengthy since deserted their posts.

Underneath his regular watch the guards held the road, with appreciable assist from Vichear and the opposite Bekhai. The huge half-bear danced in regards to the battlefield, showing wherever he was wanted, bellowing orders and placing down the Defiled with ease. His martial prowess apart, the person was a born commander, capable of bolster morale and carry spirits with just a few errant phrases, the flagging defenders rallying wherever he appeared. If Tongzu had a thousand warriors like him, then the battle for Sanshu can be received throughout the hour. A disgrace, however even among the many Bekhai, Vichear was a rarity, an elite amongst elites. Curse the blind idiot who so casually dismissed him.

Gerel apart, the remainder of the Bekhai had been a disappointment. Make no mistake, they had been expert warriors who adopted Vichears orders to the letter, however Tongzu couldnt assist however discover a disturbing lack of pressure amongst them, their lax angle inappropriate when contemplating Sanshus dire straits. Even the lowliest guards had been giving it their all, risking life and limb to guard town and its individuals, however the Bekhai had been disturbingly dispassionate relating to the Defiled incursion, as in the event that they held no stake in Sanshus destiny.

Then once more, maybe they didnt. Whereas the Bekhai had been making waves of late, traditionally the individuals dwelling removed from civilization trended in direction of isolationism. With tons of of anonymous villages dotted all through the distant mountain vary, a lot of them weeks of journey from civilization, they had been largely self-sufficient by necessity. No barbarians or savages both, a research of Shen Huos mercantile data confirmed a commerce surplus for the Bekhai, exporting many items and commodities, all the pieces from uncooked lumber and uncut gem stones to masterwork weapons and lifesaving medicines. A documented mercenary pressure, the Khishigs file of battles was sparse in recent times, their most up-to-date conflict being over fifty years previous, and earlier than that, one other 2 hundred years again. With so little interplay with the world at massive, it was potential the Bekhai barely even thought of themselves a part of the Empire, seditious because the thought could be.

A rattling disgrace. Residing in such harsh situations raised high-quality warriors, however all sorely missing loyalty and patriotism. This coupled with their low numbers and Gerels noticeable absence meant that the Bekhai affect fell in need of its full potential. They had been unwilling to threat their all for Sanshu and the cynic in him may hardly solid blame. What had the Empire ever executed for them except for demand taxes and repair? With its treacherous trails and hidden hazards, coupled with the quite a few rumoured Ancestral Beasts lurking deep throughout the passes, maybe not even the Defiled may conquer the aptly named Saints Tribulations Mountains.

Shaking his head, he checked in along with his officers, sending messages down the chain to take inventory of the general scenario. The bridge behind him was the important thing to victory or defeat, resulting in the Central District. Have been the Defiled to take it, they might be free to strike anyplace in your complete metropolis, but when Tongzu had been pressured to destroy the bridge, retaking the South-West District can be all of the harder, pressured to march his troopers by means of roundabout routes to get into place. If not for XinYues well timed arrival, he might need been pressured to surrender the Southern Bridge and ship his troopers to bolster Sovannas place. Now, with the Moms Militia and Crossbone Corsairs to help her, she was doing an admirable job of retaking the northern bridge, whereas XinYue rode with the Bekhai to assist his flagging troopers within the south. The younger man was full of hearth and vinegar, able to conflict towards the traitor Mao, calling for his head. A great little one, maybe worthy of grooming, contingent on his relationship with the Bekhai.

Although he had the Defiled confined to the South-West District, Tongzu felt like an invisible dagger hung above his head, your complete battle teetering within the steadiness. Sure, he held three of 5 bridges, however was it mere coincidence they had been as removed from each other as might be? Every one led to a distinct district, which means it might be tough for him to bolster the opposite positions ought to the Defiled push by means of. Was this a part of Yo Lings plan? This senseless sustained assault wasnt a viable technique, however the crafty bandit lord appeared content material to let issues lie, solely showing to chop down Gao Qiu earlier than disappearing as soon as once more. Tongzu by no means thought there would come a day when he would mourn the Purple Satan of Sanshu, however by Sovannas accounts, the Northern bridge would have been misplaced with out the infamous bandit, and misplaced once more with out the Mom’s Militia and Azure Ascendants.

It rankled his nerves to know his metropolis was being saved by the bandits whod plagued him for thus a few years. Nonetheless, bandits although they could be, they had been right here preventing for Sanshu, which is greater than he may say for its individuals. The place had been the noble heroes of Sanshu? Why was it solely the dregs and villains who confirmed up on this time of want, whereas its vaunted warriors and nobles fled within the chaos? How mortifying. The Council was all however dissolved after he ordered the evacuation, each rich service provider and nobleman clambering over each other of their sprint to flee, their wealth packed in wagons and barges clogging up the gates. A present of arms may make them abandon their wealth, however he wanted each ready hand to carry the bridges and nonetheless it won’t be sufficient.

A report arrived stating XinYue and the Bekhai had efficiently retaken the Southern bridge. So shortly? Solely minutes in the past, his troopers appeared on the cusp of breaking. Elated, he listened to the report and mourned the lack of Falling Rain, thrown into the waters. Even towards stacked odds, the boy introduced down the infamous bandit Black Coronary heart Nazier, a damned spectacular remaining act of defiance. His thoughts made up, Tongzu vowed to ship a delegation to the Bekhai and provide his gratitude and friendship in spite of everything this was executed. The Society and Council be damned, warriors like Akanai and Baatar had been what nobles ought to aspire to, elevating peerless skills and taking in good troopers like Rain, Gerel and Vichear. He may even provide Bastard Liu and Jariad a pardon if theyd settle for service below him.

Unlikely to occur, however a person can dream.

How are issues going right here? Pale and exhausted, Gerel arrived on quin-back, prepared for battle with weapons in hand. Unbelievable, not even the estimated twenty-four hours had handed and he was hale and… wholesome was a stretch, however ready. His spirits excessive, Tongzu repeated the excellent news aloud for all to listen to, his guards cheering as phrase unfold. Laughing on the point out of Rains heroic sacrifice, Gerel shook his head. In poor health imagine the boys useless once I lay eyes on his chilly, rotting corpse. Tongzu properly held his tongue, understanding there can be little of the boy left as soon as the fish had been by means of with him.

Che, you set an excessive amount of religion within the foundling. A veiled lady in darkish leather-based armour stood subsequent to Gerel, an unfamiliar face. Relaxed and unconcerned as she brushed her quin, her mere presence brought on Tongzu to step away in concern, solely simply noticing her although she was properly inside arms attain. One other skilled? The conceited little one even dared increase his weapons at me. Of all of the nerve. If not for the lady, I would have squashed him right into a paste.

The eagerness of youth, dont maintain it towards him. Flashing a roguish smile, Gerel added, Would you care to make a wager Mentor? I doubt weve seen the final of Falling Rain. Not even the Mom is so merciful.

With a dismissive snort, the veiled lady answered, Shameless little one. If Ive instructed you as soon as, Ive instructed you a thousand instances: I’m not your Mentor. I merely gave you just a few phrases of recommendation, you dont even qualify as a scholar. Id die of humiliation if the world believed I raised such a nugatory disciple.

Gerel? Nugatory? Gaping in disbelief, Tongzu barely stored his composure, hurriedly clasping fingers to the skilled. Apologies for my lack of manners, I’m Chu Tongzu, Justice of the Peace of Sanshu. How may I deal with you?

Lips pursed, the veiled lady turned away, ignoring the query whereas Gerel shrugged in apology. Swallowing his pleasure, Tongzu cleared his throat and glared at his close by guards, daring them to snigger. Irrespective of, if this skilled was Gerels superior, then a bit discourtesy was simply suffered. Hell, if the girl was corresponding to Akanai or Baatar, then hed kiss her toes and kowtow thrice. Somebody wanted to kill Yo Ling and he was woefully quick on choices.

The place is that this bandit who injured you? The veiled lady appeared over the battlefield, standing on her toes like a village lady watching a parade. I nonetheless dont perceive why youre so insistent on killing him your self. I want to be executed with this and return residence.

My apologies Mentor, however I made a promise. I require recognition and the rank which comes with it. The longer term Marshal of the North cant marry a mere Senior Captain. I need to purpose for the apex to higher assist my bride to be.

I dont perceive. If Im dying, why do I must kill Baledagh? Glancing round, my thoughts clouds as I seek for solutions, staring on the water exterior. I may use a splash of water, one thing to clear my head, however one thing is retaining it out.

Breaking free from my management, not-Baledagh screeches and dives in direction of me, tackling me towards the barrier. Clawed fingers rip into my flesh and tear at my face, however theres no ache, no sensation to accompany it. With a psychological effort, I transfer with not-Baledaghs momentum, wrapping it in its arms and letting the present carry it away, dragged alongside the internal partitions of my jail.

My jail? Proper, thats what that is. Narrowing my eyes, I exert my will to tear it aside and let the cleaning waters in, however nothing occurs. The invisible partitions are strong and weighty, exterior of my management. Glancing at not-Baledagh pinned to the wall, I notice it is not answerable for this. Like I stated, it has no energy right here, weak and impotent now that Ive wholly rejected it.

However Baledagh hasnt rejected it. Via him, the Spectres maintain the waters at bay, utilizing his instinctual need to dwell to be able to maintain us alive. I can not let this occur, we have to die and drag the Spectres down with us. Wandering again to his aspect, I flip to observe Baledaghs goals, nonetheless persevering with regardless of our impeding demise. I may kill him simply as turning my hand, however I cant bear to do it. I need to depart him in there to get pleasure from his final moments, however even that tiny mercy is denied to him. With one final lingering stare upon his good household, I attain out and pluck Baledagh from the dream.

Shock, anger, recrimination, and despair all flash throughout his face, the awful fact shattering his fragile coronary heart as he involves grips with actuality. With a crestfallen look of anguish, he croaks one, easy phrase. Why?

This all wants to come back down, I reply, gesturing round. I would like your assist to do it.

After a brief pause, he asks, Will I die? His hopeful tone breaks my coronary heart and all I can do is nod. Aid etched throughout his face, Baledagh closes his eyes and the partitions come crashing down. The Spectres wail in fury because the waters wash over not-Baledagh, its bodily type melting away beneath the torrent, washed clear of all its evil and corruption. Along with his arms opened extensive, the deluge sweeps Baledagh away, his physique sinking deep into the void, eroding away within the darkness.

Standing in place, I wait my flip, however the waters solely swirl round me, a mild ebb and movement circling me, happy to be right here. Heat and comforting, it fills me with… not recollections, however an consciousness of my time spent adrift. Whereas channelling my Chi on the point of demise, the Heavenly Waters of Sanshu discovered me and got here to my assist. Not wholly sentient but with a will of its personal, it bonded with my Chi for causes unknown, as naturally as filling a cup. Heading off predators and nourishing my physique, it clashed with its antithesis, the Spectres inside me. Sadly, the Spectres grew in energy as a consequence of Baledaghs rising consciousness and the Heavenly Waters had been pressured to flee, believing me misplaced and with no need for use. Even then, it stored shut, looking for an opportunity to reunite with me.

Huh. Wanting again on it, ever since I awoke, I by no means went to assemble water by myself, regardless of my fascination with it. I at all times waited for somebody to convey me water, regardless of how filthy or thirsty I turned. The Spectres delicate affect, retaining me away from the Heavenly Waters, looking for to deprave me earlier than returning to grab it? Is that this water the Tears of the Mom? The stuff that nourished the Sacred Bushes of Sanshu and empowered the enormous turtle in Ping Yao? The water stays silent to my questions, not out of spite or need for concealment, however somewhat as a result of… its water. It doesnt know what the fuck Im speaking about. It likes my Chi, so right here it’s, all up in my enterprise.

An odd pet, however In poor health take it.

Bringing myself to Baledaghs aspect, I halt his descent, tearing up at his departure. Asleep, his options appear so comfortable and rounded, like a toddler nonetheless but to succeed in maturity. That is how he sees himself, as a result of mentally, hes nonetheless a toddler. Its not truthful. Why does he should die? As a result of hes Defiled? The waters dont reply, persevering with to erode away at my little brother with a vengeance. It sees him as anathema to my existence, just like the Spectres are to it, so it really works to purge him from existence.

For my profit.

I dont perceive. I by no means requested to be right here, I by no means wished to usurp Baledagh, but it appears Im destined to take action no matter my needs. He rejected the Spectres, similar as me, so why can he not be saved? Obtrusive angrily on the Spectres, I blink in shock at what stays. A light-weight within the void, vitality clear and untainted, the Spectres’ stays, purified by the Heavenly Waters and fading quick. As I attain out to understand it, the waters bubble and foam, displeased by my actions and trying to sway my determination very similar to the Spectres, however I dont give a shit. It doesnt give orders right here. Its water. I drink that shit for breakfast.

The purified vitality encircles Baledagh, defending him from the waters. His existence is faint and weak, suppressed by the Heavenly waters however not fading. Instructing the waters to avoid my little brother, my new buddy bubbles with disapproval earlier than rescinding from Baledagh, forgetting its displeasure nearly instantly. Glad with the scenario, I metal myself earlier than waking, dreading the approaching ache. I imply, I fell right into a river full of toothy fucking fish. If Im not dying, Im most likely nonetheless grievously wounded proper?

Effectively, no sense delaying.

Stepping from the void, I gasp closely, my lungs burning with ache as I bob on the waters floor. A refrain of chirps and squeaks greet me as I discover myself surrounded by quins, the voracious outsized otters retaining guard whereas Mafu holds me afloat. Cheeks full of a nonetheless flailing fish, the fats quin nearly appears proud. Laughing out loud, I pat his head and say, Good boy, Mafu. Take me again to shore? Theres work to be executed. Defiled to kill, cities to avoid wasting, you realize the drill.

Following my gestures greater than my phrases, Mafu paddles in direction of land, skimming by means of the water as our escort of quins comply with go well with. Nonetheless catching my breath, I smile on the absurdity of all of it. Even with a brand new pet blob of Heavenly Water, Mafu continues to be primary.

Sorry Zabu, you had been right here first, however its bros earlier than hos. You introduced this on your self.

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