In the late Qin Dynasty, uprising forces emerged everywhere, with several factions in even one county claiming territories as their own kingdoms. Changsha Commandery was no exception. Before Mi Wen raised her troops, there were two uprising forces in Changsha Commandery apart from the Qin Dynasty’s government. After Mi Wen raised her troops, these forces defected to her. A major reason for this was her wealth, food supplies, and weapons. However, Mi Wen wasn’t just a source of funds; in many ways, she was an excellent leader. Her rapid expansion and defeat of the local Qin government were due to her incorporation of large numbers of rebel forces.

Having a large number of people doesn’t necessarily mean great strength, but Mi Wen excelled in this aspect. She incorporated large numbers of rebel troops, first replacing all their commanders with her trusted aides, then expelling the old, the weak, and those fearful of battle. The remaining young and strong soldiers were rigorously trained and organized, significantly boosting the army’s combat effectiveness.

Moreover, Mi Wen raised the banner of "Reviving the Chu State," gaining support from many within the Chu Territory. From noble merchants to local elders of Chu ancestry, many were dissatisfied with the court’s rule. Once the banner was raised, they turned against the court. In just a month, Changsha Commandery became Mi Wen’s "stronghold." Compared to other counties suffering from chaos, Changsha was a land of prosperity.

Changsha, Linxiang City.

"It’s truly prosperous here," Ye Shikai couldn’t help but exclaim as he led his troops into the city.

"Officer, would you like to see some fine silk? You could buy some for your wife." 𝙛𝓻𝒆𝒆𝒘𝙚𝓫𝙣𝙤𝒗𝙚𝓵.𝙘𝙤𝙢

Ye Shikai stopped in front of a shop that had many exquisite silks and fabrics, reaching out to touch them and feeling that they were indeed good quality.

"Officer, take a look. I’m not just saying this, even the County Magistrate’s family gets their clothes from us," the shop owner remarked, pointing to a bolt of silk.

"Not bad, not bad. Shopkeeper, wrap all these up."

"Got it. Officer, please wait a moment, I’ll have the items delivered to your residence immediately," the shop owner instructed the staff to load the silk and fabric into a cart.

"General, the brothers have been working hard all the way to Linxiang. I request permission for a day’s leave for them," Man Cang inquired.

"Alright, we haven’t stopped since we left East County. It’s been really exhausting. Now that we’re in Linxian, we’ve found a place to settle," Ye Shikai nodded. "I have no objections. Additionally, give each brother two liang of silver so they can buy some food and drink."

Ye Shikai always managed his troops strictly, but truth be told, since they set out from East County, his brothers hadn’t rested, and they’d even risked their lives. Ye Shikai felt quite guilty, so he had no objections to Man Cang’s suggestion.

"Thank you on behalf of the brothers, General."

Upon hearing of Ye Shikai’s "leave," the brothers showed a rare smile, as if a taut string had loosened.

The Linxian County Magistrate also came out to greet him, and Ye Shikai stepped forward to meet him.

"This must be the famous General Ye. I am Sun Feng, the Linxian County Magistrate."

"Nice to meet you," Ye Shikai nodded in response.

"The Governor has already instructed that since General Ye has arrived in Linxian, as the County Magistrate, I cannot let you and your brothers be treated poorly. The barracks have been prepared; you and your brothers can settle in right away."

"Thank you, Mr. Sun, for your kindness. I’m truly grateful."

"Hahaha, the Governor speaks highly of you, General Ye, claiming that you rival the likes of famous generals like Meng Tian."

"It’s just flattery. To be honest, I once served under Meng Tian as a general and know well his far-reaching strategies."

"General Ye, I’ve prepared a residence for you. Please follow me."

"Thank you."

Upon reaching the residence mentioned by Sun Feng, Ye Shikai couldn’t help but be amazed again. Compared to the residence in East County, this one was not only larger but also more luxuriously decorated, featuring quite a few artistic decorations. Even someone like Ye Shikai, who didn’t understand these things, could tell they were expensive. The residence even included a butler and servants, with bed linens already spread, truly a "move-in ready" setup.

"How is it? General Ye, are you satisfied? If there’s anything I’ve overlooked, please forgive me."

"Mr. Sun, you’re too courteous. Honestly, from traveling south from East County, facing the elements and evading the Qin Army’s pursuit, simply having a place to settle is already a great satisfaction. The residence you’ve prepared for me is like a paradise on earth," Ye Shikai said, making polite remarks. Sun Feng’s hospitality was likely due to Mi Wen’s influence. Since ancient times, debts of gratitude have been the hardest to repay, and Ye Shikai owed Mi Wen once again. However... in the barracks, when she injured Ye Shikai, it was as if that debt was canceled out.

"As long as General Ye is satisfied. I’ve arranged a banquet in the residence to welcome and refresh you and your wife. Please honor us with your presence."

"Certainly."

.................................

"Ling’er, how do you find this place? Are you satisfied?" Ye Shikai inquired.

"Of course, in such troubled times, having a safe place is already more than enough," He Linghan nodded. "Grandfather is also very satisfied, although he suffered quite a bit traveling south from East County due to his age."

"Ling’er, we won’t be on the move anymore," Ye Shikai wrapped her in his arms, speaking softly. He felt deeply sorry to He Linghan. As a husband, he shouldn’t have subjected his wife to a journey of a thousand miles due to his decisions, nor to the stress of avoiding pursuers. This incident would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on He Linghan, perhaps even a mental scar.

"Now that we’ve sought refuge with Mi Wen, there will surely be battles ahead."

"Don’t worry, I’ll be fine," Ye Shikai gently stroked her head. Now that he possessed Inner Strength, even if faced with an assault by thousands, he was at ease and unworried about falling in battle.

Thud, thud, thud.

At that moment, the sound of urgent footsteps suddenly came from outside, prompting Ye Shikai to instinctively turn his head towards the door.

"General."

"Is it Xue San? What’s the matter?" Ye Shikai recognized the voice, so he walked forward and opened the door.

"Reporting to the General, there’s been an incident."

"Let’s talk in the hall."

Ye Shikai’s heart sank. If it weren’t a matter of urgency, Xue San wouldn’t have "burst" into his room to report.

"What’s happened exactly?"

"Just now at the market, our soldiers had some drinks and got into an argument with local vendors. During the ensuing brawl, our soldiers inadvertently... killed someone."