Chapter 109: Chapter 52: A Decisive Victory

The cries of battle outside resonated through the sky, yet inside the tent, the two of them seemed detached from the chaos, as if they were about to host a tea gathering, in stark contrast to the tense situation outside.

“Isn’t the Prince worried about what’s happening outside?” Ruoxi countered his question with her own, her clear eyes soft with a gentle light.

Jun Moling suddenly realized how abrupt his question had been, and he couldn’t help but cough lightly, trying to cover his embarrassment.

He spoke faintly, “Everything is under the Marquis’s control. With the teacher here, I naturally have nothing to worry about.”

As his words fell, the two of them instantly fell silent, and the question Jun Moling had asked seemed to have been swallowed by the silence, never to be mentioned again.

Inwardly, Ruoxi smiled bitterly. She thought she’d never marry again in this lifetime.

A single Xiao Chengyi had already left her physically and mentally exhausted, her heart riddled with scars.

But she also understood that she couldn’t deny all men because of one person’s fault.

Her father, maternal grandfather, and uncle were all affectionate and righteous men, but her life’s misfortunes had prevented her from meeting such a good partner.

Moreover, ever since her father and brother died on the battlefield, piercing rumors had never ceased.

Some said that if she hadn’t been found back then, they might not have died.

Especially after her mother’s death, rumors about her bad fate, being a jinxed loner star, never stopped.

Thinking about it now, she couldn’t even manage a marriage well; perhaps she was destined to be lonely until she died.

The atmosphere in the tent grew more awkward with the silence, and Jun Moling coughed lightly, calling out coldly, “Mi Er.”

A man in a tight-fitting outfit appeared instantly, kneeling on one knee with respect, “Lord.”

Jun Moling’s presence exuded an aura of grim resolve, which unsettled Ruoxi.

The amicable Jun Moling she had just been conversing with now appeared stern and imposing, as if split into entirely different personas.

“How’s the situation outside?” Jun Moling’s voice was cold and authoritative.

“Rest assured, my lord. The Beichang ruffians have suffered heavy casualties, and our forces have reached the outskirts of Peng City; seizing Peng City is within reach.”

Jun Moling nodded slightly, his face remaining stern, “I understand. Report back promptly with any updates; you may withdraw!”

“Yes.” Mi Er replied, disappearing in the blink of an eye.

Once again, a deadly silence spread throughout the tent.

Listening to the unending clash of arms outside, Ruoxi found it hard to sit still, her hand gripping the hilt of the Dragon Roar Sword, her gaze frequently drawn to the outside, eager to rush out and join the fray.

“Didn’t you say my life is important? Don’t overthink.” Jun Moling’s voice broke the silence.

Ruoxi furrowed her brow, retorting, “I didn’t say your life is important; you must realize the importance of your life yourself.”

Jun Moling’s expression remained indifferent, but his tone carried a heroic melancholy, “Don’t worry, I won’t die before taking Xia Pass and driving Beichang Country back to Beichang.”

Ruoxi felt a pang in her heart, her voice tinged with annoyance, “You can’t live without that woman?”

Jun Moling was momentarily stunned before lowering his voice, “It’s not that exaggerated.”

“What kind of woman is she? I’m quite curious.” Ruoxi pressed on.

Jun Moling’s dark eyes stared straight into hers, and Ruoxi always found herself losing in such a gaze.

The deep blackness of his eyes seemed to pull her into his depths, leaving her defenseless.

“Why are you looking at me like that? I was asking about her,” Ruoxi said with a hint of unease in her voice.

Jun Moling averted his gaze, and both of them heaved a silent sigh of relief.

He spoke slowly, his voice deep, “As beautiful as you, beyond that, I don’t know much either.

We knew each other as children; I only knew she was very kind-hearted, lively, naturally endearing, but sadly, I don’t even know who she is or her name.

I looked for her for a long time, finally found her, only to become her sinner, while she got married.”

Such unforgettable love since childhood—Jun Moling was indeed a passionate man, quite incongruous with his character and demeanor.

“A sinner? What did you do to her?” Ruoxi asked, her face full of curiosity.

Jun Moling clearly didn’t want to say more, only responding perfunctorily, “I once thought I could never face her in this lifetime, but in reality, I can. She’s too kind, but the kinder and less resentful she is, the harder it is for me to move on.”

Ruoxi seemed to grasp some of the intricacies, “Since she doesn’t blame you, you should be well. The world outside is more beautiful. When you return to the Capital City, you can marry and have children. You’re a prince; surely many women would want to marry you.”

Jun Moling gave a wry smile and remained silent.

For a moment, the scene fell into a suffocating silence once more.

Ruoxi wanted to comfort him but didn’t know where to begin.

At that moment, jubilant cheers suddenly erupted outside, shaking the earth and sky.

“Peng City is retaken!” “We have won!”

Ruoxi, swept up in the enthusiasm, turned to meet the deep black eyes of Jun Moling.

Tears welled in her eyes, but her lips couldn’t resist curling upwards as she excitedly exclaimed, “Prince, we’ve taken Peng City!”

In that instant, Zhai Wen and several generals strode into Jun Moling’s main tent.

“Marshal, we have retaken Peng City.”

Jun Moling took a deep breath, feeling a surge of excitement, coldly asking, “And where is Chunyu Chi?”

“He escaped. Unfortunately, the Beichang soldiers protected him fiercely, and in the confusion of the night, he got away. But our forces are ambushing halfway between Peng City and Xia Pass; he can’t return to Peng City and can only flee towards Xia Pass!” Zhai Wen’s tone carried regret and frustration.

Jun Moling’s expression remained unchanged, dismissively waving his hand. Chunyu Chi had now become a homeless dog, not worth fearing.

Now, only Xia Pass remained—that was the real confrontation.

“Get things in order. At dawn, the army will set forth to Peng City.” His voice was firm and commanding, brooking no argument.

“Yes!” everyone responded in unison.

“Marshal, your health…” a general said, his face full of worry as he looked at Jun Moling’s slightly pale complexion.

“I’m fine,” Jun Moling replied lightly.

Zhai Wen couldn’t hide his delight, “The soldiers are also very excited. This time we can say it was a great victory with minimal losses. It’s exhilarating.”

Jun Moling nodded slightly, feeling the impact himself.

He instructed, “Let them rest for a day when we reach Peng City. Also, do not disturb the people, whether they are our citizens or those of Beichang Country!”

His voice was stern and commanding, his gaze sweeping over everyone present.

“Yes!”

Ruoxi stretched and said, “Marshal, I’ve also fulfilled my duty by protecting your safety. I’m going to take a nap.”

For a fleeting moment, a hint of heartache flashed in Jun Moling’s eyes, quickly replaced by a smile that was as gentle and indulgent as a spring breeze, “Isn’t it the Marshal’s merit this time? Is it my lacking that led to the strategy’s extension?”

“Pfft,” Ruoxi burst out laughing. This person truly holds grudges!

Though he nearly lost his life, he now uses this to claim credit, leaving her both amused and at a loss for words!

“Indeed! The greatest achievement this time belongs to the Marshal, but remember, life is only given once; next time may not be so lucky,” Ruoxi said seriously, restraining her smile.

“Go on!” Jun Moling nodded slightly, his gaze full of care.

Ruoxi bowed and left, leaving all the officers with expressions as though struck by lightning.

Did the Marshal just smile? Was that indulgent voice and gentle gaze really the Marshal’s? Unbelievable!

“Comrades, you’ve all worked hard, but continue to restrain your men. Rest in Peng City.” Jun Moling returned to his commanding and dignified tone, sternly addressing them.

This was the real Marshal! What they saw before must have been an illusion!

The officers obeyed and left. Zhai Wen said with a smile, “Marshal, Miss Shen is indeed our lucky star. Not only did she save your life, but she also helped reclaim the difficult Peng City. Heaven blesses our Dayi Country!”

Jun Moling gave him a cold look, “Teacher, what exactly do you want to say?”

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