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The excitement among the students was palpable as they whispered to one another. Many had spent their time in the academy's training grounds since arriving, with only a few, like Xiao Chen, venturing out to attack enemies. Most had yet to experience the military life of farming.
As they entered, an unexpected tremor shook the ground beneath them. Chen Anlin glanced ahead and saw a formidable army clad in black armor, marching in a massive square formation while wielding long spears.
It was an impressive force. Chen Anlin nodded slightly; just as described in the novel, although the internal affairs of the Great Zhou were beginning to decay, the military discipline and strength at the borders remained intact. All of this was attributed to a general named Huang Li.
However, how could such a strong army have faced defeat? Chen Anlin pondered quietly. Unfortunately, the novel did not elaborate much on this; it only mentioned that the protagonist, Xiao Chen, discovered an ancient tomb here and fled overnight after reaping its benefits. Following that, chaos ensued as the Northern Barbarians took advantage of the situation, signaling the impending downfall of the Great Zhou.
Thinking of the ancient tomb, Chen Anlin squinted and instinctively looked towards Xiao Chen in the distance. At that moment, Xiao Chen furrowed his brow, questioning inwardly: Master, is it true that you sensed a powerful aura here?
Indeed. Unfortunately, this location is too far; I cannot pinpoint its exact position yet. Just wait for a moment; later you can use your battle as an excuse to explore around.
Understood, Master.
Xiao Chen's eyes sparkled with excitement; he hadn't even considered that there might be opportunities here. Chen Anlin, oh Chen Anlin, just wait until I acquire the treasure—I will be the first to eliminate you.
Next, each academy's teacher guided their students around the area. Some engaged in conversations with generals who shared strategies on how to deal with Northern Barbarian cavalry. Others practiced sparring with soldiers.
Xiao Chen walked alongside Zhao Yao and a few followers.
"Xiao Ge, that's General Huang Li! I've heard he's the top defender of our northern border in Great Zhou. I always imagined someone so fierce would look more rugged," one of his followers exclaimed in admiration.
"Xiao Chen, let's go pay a visit to General Huang Li," Zhao Yao suggested eagerly.
Xiao Chen felt a stir in his heart; he had actually been considering this idea for a long time. Regarding such a prominent figure, he had a clear intention, as being seen close to General Huang Li would be beneficial for him. However, he did not express his thoughts immediately. Instead, he feigned hesitation, shaking his head and frowning as he said, "Isn't this inappropriate? If others see us, they might think I'm trying to curry favor with the powerful."
"Brother Xiao, how could that be? We all know you; you're not that kind of person," his subordinates quickly replied.
"Exactly! Besides, General Huang is different from other nobles," they added.
Seeing this, Zhao Yao hurriedly chimed in, "Xiao Chen, you don't need to worry too much! Besides, you are now the leader of us commoners. I believe General Huang is also interested in forming a connection with you."
"You all are making things difficult for me," Xiao Chen shook his head but ultimately nodded in agreement. "Alright then, I'll go have a chat with General Huang and try to get familiar with him. Hopefully, this will allow us commoners to gain some advantages."
"Hey, Brother Xiao! General Huang is actually walking towards us!" someone suddenly exclaimed with excitement.
Zhao Yao's face lit up with enthusiasm. "Xiao Chen, it must be that General Huang has heard about you and is coming over to connect with you!"
Upon hearing this, Xiao Chen's lips slowly curled into a smile, though he remained humble in his response. "Oh no, I still have much to learn."
With that, he straightened his clothes and walked towards General Huang Li.
"Hello, General Huang! I am Xiao Chen," he said confidently. "General Huang, my brothers and I have long heard of your great name. I understand that you also come from humble beginnings."
Xiao Chen held deep admiration for those from humble backgrounds who had achieved such success. After all, General Huang had risen through the ranks through hard work and perseverance, unlike Chen Anlin, who was born into privilege—a true disgrace.
Moreover, General Huang had an excellent reputation among the soldiers. He treated them like family and always fought alongside them on the front lines. It was said that during one of his campaigns, he passed by his home three times without entering—an inspiring tale.
Such a person was indeed worthy of Xiao Chen's respect.
Huang Li glanced at Xiao Chen, feeling somewhat puzzled. He had originally intended to head over to Chen Anlin's side. After all, he was someone who had been promoted by the Chen family and belonged to their faction. Moreover, Chen Anlin had personally brought troops to fight alongside him, and the Chen family controlled military supplies—such a powerful family was not one to offend.
Having risen from the bottom, he understood the importance of these influential families and knew that crossing them was not an option. Looking at Xiao Chen, Huang Li did not respond to his words, feeling a bit bewildered. What did he mean by "I am Xiao Chen"? Did I even know you?
However, out of politeness, he nodded and asked, "Is there something you need?"
Xiao Chen replied with confusion, "General, weren't you looking for me?"
Uh, Huang Li's expression turned strange. "Looking for you?"
At that moment, a deputy general who recognized Xiao Chen leaned in and explained in a low voice meant only for the two of them. The leader of the commoners had a grudge against Chen Anlin? Was he trying to rally the commoners to exclude Chen Anlin?
Instantly, Huang Li looked at Xiao Chen as if he were an idiot. He wanted to say that a bunch of rabble had no chance against someone with power and influence—if anyone was going to be excluded, it should be them.
He recalled his own humble beginnings; it was precisely because of that experience that he understood the might of the elite. Even with his current status, he dared not offend those in power. He had to work hard to maintain connections; otherwise, where would the military supplies come from? How could they win battles?
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