Awakening from the consciousness of her dreams, Tii slowly opened her eyes. Her crimson pupils were still hazy upon waking, as if she were still immersed in her conversation with Su Ling.
She blinked gently, trying to dispel the lingering sleepiness. Gradually, her vision cleared, and the furnishings of the bedroom came into focus.
‘It is time for another mission…’
Tii sighed and sat up. She stretched lightly, her joints letting out a faint cracking sound.
She walked softly to the wardrobe and slowly pulled open the doors. Her clothes were neatly arranged inside, and from them, Tii selected a set of black cloaks suitable for a mission.
This outfit provided excellent concealment and was the best choice she had refined through countless missions.
Next, Tii walked to the bedside and gently lifted the bedding. Hidden at the very bottom was her weapon and some essential assassination gear.
She secured a double-edged short sword to her waist and then pulled a small black pouch from beneath the bed. The pouch was filled with various hidden weapons.
There were tiny throwing knives with blades as thin as a cicada’s wing, and several exquisite poison needles with tips coated in a lethal toxin.
Several small pockets were sewn onto the outside of the pouch, containing common medicinal powders and antidotes for emergencies.
‘If little Su Ling saw this side of me… would she be afraid?’
Her mind began to wander. She took a deep breath, forcing down the unease in her heart to focus all her energy on the upcoming mission.
After packing everything, Tii carefully organized her gear and weapons into a black backpack. She slung the bag over her shoulder and stood before the mirror, meticulously checking her attire.
Then, she walked through the long corridor and pushed open the door, letting the sunlight spill over her.
Two days ago, a heavy rainstorm had struck the Valivadan Boundary District, severely impacting the transport of grain and fodder. Having finally waited for a clear day, the frontline commander made a decisive call and ordered a replenishment of supplies.
Before a clearing, an Earth Dragon Cart was already loaded with grain destined for the front lines. Soldiers were busy making the final preparations.
Tii climbed onto the cart and found a suitable place to sit. She closed her eyes, silently praying in her heart that the mission would proceed smoothly.
As the Earth Dragon Cart slowly started, Tii’s thoughts gradually sank into the details of the mission.
According to her knowledge, this high-ranking enemy general had displayed extraordinary military talent on the battlefield. The units under his command had caused significant losses to the Valivadan army in several encounters.
His tactics were cunning and varied; he was skilled at analyzing the geographical environment and using the weather to achieve unexpected victories. This had caused his reputation to soar among the enemy army and made him a thorn in the side of the Valivadan forces.
The Grand Priest’s reason for wanting him assassinated was self-evident. On the scales of war, this general was undoubtedly an extremely important weight. His death could lead to chaos in the enemy’s command system, thereby creating an opportunity for a Valivadan counter-offensive.
Furthermore, from a deeper political perspective, his death might shake the enemy’s morale and trigger a series of chain reactions, exerting a profound influence on the overall situation of the war.
Tii began to simulate various possible assassination scenarios in her mind. From the method of approaching the target, to the specific techniques of the kill, and the escape route afterward — every detail was repeatedly scrutinized.
***
After several days of an exhausting journey, the Earth Dragon Cart finally came to a slow stop on the dusty road. Tii looked through the window and saw rolling rows of tents ahead, along with the Valivadan flags fluttering in the wind.
Ahead lay the Valivadan military camp.
Soldiers moved back and forth between the tents. The sound of blades clashing against whetstones rang out clearly, and the air was thick with the scent of slaughter and blood.
She stepped off the cart, her boots quickly sinking into the mud.
Just as she landed, a general approached with long strides. He wore an iron helmet and heavy armor with a sword at his waist, his eyes reflecting an undeniable authority.
“Miss Phoenix, you have worked hard on your journey,” the General said in a low voice, his tone carrying a hint of respect. The young girl before him appeared fragile, yet she was an assassin who struck terror into the hearts of the Blood Clan.
“General, I am ready,” Tii replied with a slight nod and a respectful tone.
The two of them walked together into the military tent. The furnishings inside were simple and practical. A detailed military map was spread across a wide wooden table, covered in small flags of various colors marking the distribution of both armies.
The General walked to the table, took a portrait from a rectangular wooden box, and handed it to Tii.
“The target of this assassination is him,” the General’s voice was low and powerful. “If this man does not die, he will be a great trouble for us.”
Tii took the portrait and examined it closely.
The person in the painting looked young, with thin eyebrows, a high bridge on his nose, and an upturned corner of his mouth that revealed a bit of wildness and confidence. Tii felt he looked somewhat familiar. After studying him for a moment longer, she had a sudden realization.
“Could this man be — that illegitimate son of House Lorian?”
“Correct. He is the Duke’s nephew, Benjay Lorian.” The General paused for a moment in thought before slowly continuing.
“According to my intelligence, Benjay was unfortunately struck by an arrow while inspecting the front lines yesterday. This information has been confirmed.”
He paused again and then said, “Master Jirusaga has already planned everything. You will disguise yourself as an enemy Doctor to infiltrate their camp and carry out the assassination while he is having his dressing changed. Once successful, our army will launch a surprise attack from the flank, taking advantage of their confusion.”
“The recent heavy rains and floods have delayed us for too long. The Valivadan army can no longer afford a war of attrition. This is our last assault. Miss Phoenix, our success or failure depends on this single move.”
Tii nodded. Her teacher was a veteran of assassination for many years. Since her teacher had personally conceived this plan, it must have been thoroughly considered.
Next, the General took out a detailed map which marked the layout of the enemy camp and the location of the medical tents.
“This is a simplified map of the enemy camp. The medical tents are located on the western side, near the commander’s quarters. Entering through the small path in the thicket, the guards are relatively light, but you must proceed with caution.”
“Understood.”
“The Doctor’s outfit and an enemy pass have already been prepared. I will have my subordinates hand them to you in a moment,” the General said, patting Tii on the shoulder in encouragement.
“Miss Phoenix, remember, once you succeed, evacuate immediately. A contact will be waiting for you at the rendezvous point.”
Tii folded the map carefully and tucked it into her tunic.
“I understand.”
Premium Chapter
Login to buy access to this Chapter.