The Demon Lords-Chapter 623 - 107 Soaking Bath_2

The Blind Man spoke up at this point, "My Lord, based on my observation of the Eldest Prince's every move since he began leading the troops, I've found that he is adopting a strategy of advancing steadily and entrenching at every step this time. He won't take risks lightly and intends to use overwhelming force to suppress the rebellious Wild People and the traitors of Cheng State. Therefore, the chances of him making a mistake are quite slim."

Originally, it was thought that a prince leading troops would be more inclined to seek glory, especially given that the Yan people's warfare primarily relies on cavalry raids. However, the Eldest Prince has actually chosen to play it extremely safe. This is genuine over-caution. He commands an army of 150,000. Even if the Northern Border Army only has 50,000, and the local provincial troops of Yan State aren't top-tier, their combat effectiveness is poor only when compared to the Northern Border Army or the Jingnan Army. You can't possibly think these provincial troops are worse than the rebel forces of Cheng State, can you? Moreover, it's well-known that the Wild People don't have the stamina for prolonged battles. This reputation hasn't changed even after they breached the border. In the mainstream opinion of both the court and the common people, the Wild People only managed to breach the border this time because those two clowns from the Situ Family acted as collaborators and let them in.

Didn't our Lord Jingnan lead just 30,000 cavalry to wreak havoc in their snowy plains hometown? The massive capture of their cattle, sheep, and horses directly caused mutton prices to plummet recently.

The Eldest Prince, however, is different. He takes things one step at a time. After the vanguard reached Ying Capital City, the main army maintained a steady pace. Upon arriving at each new location, they first liaised with the local authorities, ensuring the Situ Family's original local administrative system remained intact. Subsequently, crucial matters such as procuring grain and fodder, managing army supplies, and conscripting civilians were all handled in an orderly fashion.

Those in the know understood the Eldest Prince was there to wage war. Those who weren't might have thought he was there to take over a business.

"Let's continue observing for now. There's no rush." 𝐟𝕣𝕖𝐞𝐰𝕖𝚋𝐧𝗼𝚟𝐞𝕝.𝗰𝐨𝐦

Zheng Fan drew his bow, nocked an arrow, and after loosing it, asked, "Don't we have a Situ Family military garrison to our east?"

"Yes, My lord," Liang Cheng replied. "It's called Ningbian City. It should have originally garrisoned over 5,000 troops, but most of them have likely been reassigned by now."

"Dispatch some troops to help secure it. Incidentally, we can also expand the reach of our influence."

"Is it appropriate to do so?" Xue Three asked.

"There's nothing inappropriate about it. The Situ Family has already submitted to imperial rule, so the land opposite us is now Yan territory. We're helping with its defense, not trying to seize land."

"I understand."

"Good. If they don't know what's good for them, teach them a lesson. Brand them as rebels and eliminate them."

"Yes, I understand."

"Additionally, send another one or two thousand troops to scout deeper into Cheng State and establish our own network of courier stations. The military intelligence is currently taking too long to reach us. If you encounter scouts from the Eldest Prince and they inquire, tell them we are proactively helping to screen the flanks for the Eldest Prince's main army. Since the Eldest Prince wants us to guard his rear, he won't make things difficult for us over such trivial matters at this time. As for after the autumn harvest... well, we'll deal with that when the time comes."

Xue Three commented, "My lord, when you were saying all that just now, you really had the air of a treacherous court eunuch. Especially in this Flying Fish Suit that Siniang personally embroidered—it's just perfect!"

"Oh, really?"

Zheng Fan drew his bow, nocked another arrow, and loosed it.

Xue Three then said, "My lord, just shooting at targets is so dull."

A Ming, who had been feigning sleep nearby, opened his eyes and glanced at Xue Three.

"It's fine," Zheng Fan said. "I'm just practicing to keep my skills sharp. By the way, A Cheng, ensure the army's training doesn't slack off. Try to instill even more killing intent in our troops."

"Yes, My lord."

Xue Three scratched his ear, sidled up to Zheng Fan, and said, "My lord, I've prepared those medicinal baths. You've just finished your archery practice and your body is all warmed up. How about taking a dip now?"

"Is this the medicinal bath you spoke of last time?"

"Yes, that's the one. The medicinal ingredients were incredibly hard to find. I had a hundred or so of my men search the mountains for half a month, and I also bought some from traveling merchants. Only then did I manage to gather all the components for one formula. I guarantee it has no side effects. It's what the truly great and wealthy clans use for their core disciples when they refine the body. It's said that when Lord Jingnan was a child, his ancestor used this for his baths."

"How has that become your go-to line?" Zheng Fan said, somewhat amused.

Everything related to Lord Jingnan: if he used it, it must be good; his armor was made with this material; he soaked in this when he was young and cultivating. Does Tian Wujing even know he's become the spokesman for so many 'brands'? Actually, Ji Chengjue once used the Earl of North Border to endorse roast duck too. It's just that the Earl of North Border has always been hyped up to be almost mythical. But in reality—no joke—I could beat him in a fight. Tian Wujing is different. Though his reputation among the common folk is akin to that of an 'arch-fiend,' he genuinely defeated the Sword Saint. That's truly remarkable. Consequently, everyone both fears him and aspires to be like him. Therefore, anything concerning Tian Wujing's cultivation methods, anything associated with Tian Wujing, seems to instantly become prestigious and highly sought after.

"There won't be any problems, will there?" Siniang asked worriedly.

Xue Three immediately shook his head and said, "I've confirmed it. I soaked in it myself yesterday. I even feel a bit taller."

PFFT!

Fanli, who had been silent the whole time, burst out laughing.

"Really," Xue Three insisted. "It has the effect of relaxing the muscles and tendons and invigorating blood flow, though it's a bit painful. Our lord began his cultivation as an adult, so this can help him make up for lost time by strengthening his physique. It's just to consolidate his physical foundation; there are no other side effects. It's not like taking some miracle pill."