CHAPTER 495: CHAPTER 271: BATTLE AGAINST CHU XINGCHEN_2

At the same time, Gu Sheng took a deep breath and activated the Snake Breath Skill.

An eerie and chilling aura emanated from his body, as if thousands of venomous snakes were slithering around him.

"What is this aura? How terrifying!"

A general in the Chu army’s face changed drastically; he felt as though his mind was being ensnared by this aura, descending into chaos.

Next, Gu Sheng activated the Illusion Spirit Melody.

Suddenly, the popular songs of Chu Country played on the battlefield—melodies once familiar to the Chu soldiers, but now imbued with an uncanny magic power that unsettled their spirits.

"This is the stratagem of ’Music on All Sides’’!"

A strategist within the Chu army cried out,

"Quick, have the soldiers cover their ears! Don’t let these sounds affect them!"

But how could the might of the Illusion Spirit Melody be countered merely by covering ears?

Soon, the hearts of Chu soldiers became conflicted. They started doubting their beliefs and wavering in their confidence in the war.

"Run away!"

At last, someone began to flee. And once one fled, it spread like a cascade of falling dominoes.

The once-imposing Chu army now disintegrated into chaos and defeat.

Gu Sheng sneered coldly. With a flicker of his figure, he appeared like a ghost before a Chu general.

He struck with a golden palm, leaving the general no time to react before being smashed to a pulp.

"Kill!" Gu Sheng shouted, his figure vanishing again, leaving only a trail of golden shadows.

His speed was astonishing; even martial artists in the Marrow Refining Realm struggled to track his movements.

Under Gu Sheng’s command, the Liang forces swept through the battlefield effortlessly, causing the Chu army to retreat step by step into disarray.

This battle saw Gu Sheng single-handedly turn the tide of the entire conflict.

After Chu Country was annihilated, all of Liang erupted in jubilation.

For Emperor Yun Wu and Princess Zishuang, this was merely the beginning of their unification campaign.

Princess Zishuang stood atop the city walls, gazing far into Chu Country’s vast expanse with eyes filled with determination and ambition.

She turned to Gu Sheng, who stood beside her, and said, "Gu Sheng, though Chu Country is defeated, remnants of their forces still linger. The road ahead won’t be easy."

Gu Sheng smiled faintly and cupped his hands in salute, replying, "Your Highness possesses extraordinary wisdom and will surely strategize victories from afar."

Princess Zishuang nodded. She was deeply aware of Gu Sheng’s capabilities; with him by her side, she was like a tiger with wings.

After pondering briefly, she said, "The remnants of Chu forces must be eradicated swiftly. Meanwhile, we must assimilate Chu Country’s territory, establish new provinces, and solidify our rule."

Gu Sheng nodded in agreement and said, "Your Highness is absolutely correct. I propose that we first send envoys to all regions to announce Liang’s policies and reassure the populace. Simultaneously, we should enhance border patrols to prevent any counterattacks from Chu remnants."

Hearing this, Princess Zishuang expressed her approval. "Gu Sheng, you truly are meticulous. Proceed as suggested."

In the days that followed, Princess Zishuang and Gu Sheng busied themselves together.

They dispatched envoys across the land to promulgate the policies of Liang while fortifying border defenses.

Princess Zishuang personally oversaw the establishment of new provinces, reasonably dividing territories and assigning officials to ensure the stability of Liang’s governance.

As Liang was fervently engaged in its state-building efforts, Qi Country sent envoys seeking to claim a share of the spoils.

Princess Zishuang glared coldly at the Qi envoy and said, "Chu Country was conquered solely by Liang. For Qi to demand benefits seems excessively greedy, don’t you think?"

The Qi envoy argued, "Your Highness, though Qi is small, we contributed significantly. Moreover, Chu’s territory is vast; for Liang to swallow it all would appear rather overbearing."

Princess Zishuang sneered and said, "Chu Country’s lands were won with the blood and lives of Liang’s soldiers. If Qi desires a share, demonstrate sincerity. Otherwise, don’t blame me for being unkind."

Overwhelmed by Princess Zishuang’s domineering aura, the Qi envoy left in humiliation.

Eventually, under Princess Zishuang’s persistency, Qi Country was only allocated one-seventh of the benefits and was demoted to a vassal state.

Thus, Liang achieved a superficial unification.

At the victory banquet, lanterns illuminated the night, and music resounded melodiously.

The entirety of Liang gathered in festivity to celebrate this hard-won triumph.

Princess Zishuang sat at the head of the banquet table, adorned in regal attire, her beauty like a blooming peony.

Her gaze roamed before settling on Gu Sheng; her face revealed a satisfied smile.

She beckoned gently, signaling for a maid to step forward—the very Shangguan Yudie she cherished dearly.

"Gu Sheng, you have achieved tremendous merit this time. I have decided to reward you with a gift."

Princess Zishuang spoke as she pushed Shangguan Yudie toward Gu Sheng, saying, "This is Shangguan Yudie, my personal maid. She is clever, kindhearted, and perceptive. From now on, she shall accompany you."

Gu Sheng was momentarily stunned but quickly cupped his hands, expressing his gratitude, "Many thanks to Your Highness for your generous reward. I am deeply honored."

Princess Zishuang waved her hand casually and smiled,

"There’s no need to be so formal. I know you are a peerless talent, so ordinary rewards might not catch your eye. Tell me, then: what else do you desire? The lands, treasures of this realm—whatever you wish for, I can grant it."

Moved by her words, Gu Sheng pondered deeply.

He knew that he had already been gifted more than enough; to express further greed would invite unnecessary trouble.

Taking a deep breath, he respectfully replied, "Your Highness, I am already Champion Marquis and now have Shangguan Yudie’s companionship. I have nothing else to ask for. I only wish to serve Liang loyally and safeguard the peace of these lands."

Princess Zishuang’s eyes revealed a flicker of admiration.

Smiling gently, she said, "Gu Sheng, your humility and detachment are truly a blessing for Liang. If you ever think of something you desire, just let me know. I trust that one day, you will voice your wish."

Gu Sheng inwardly tensed, understanding that her words were no mere idle remark.

He cupped his hands and replied, "Thank you, Your Highness, for your trust. I shall not disappoint."

The banquet continued, the sounds of toasts and laughter filling the air, yet Gu Sheng sunk into deep thought.

He was aware that though he had gained much, he inevitably attracted envious eyes.

The road ahead would likely become even more treacherous.

Nevertheless, he felt no hint of retreat; instead, he brimmed with anticipation and resolve.

In a quiet corner, Shangguan Yudie gently tugged Gu Sheng’s sleeve and whispered, "Marquis Gu, the princess treats you so generously—you must repay her well."

Gu Sheng returned to his senses, meeting Shangguan Yudie’s clear gaze, and felt a warmth rising within him.

Nodding slightly, he said, "Rest assured, I will."

The two shared a knowing smile, as though they had reached a tacit understanding in that brief moment.

Princess Zishuang observed this interaction, a meaningful smile curling at her lips.

As the banquet’s joyous atmosphere lingered, Princess Zishuang privately summoned Gu Sheng.

Bathed in moonlight, the jade steps of the palace shone like water. Side by side, the two strolled, resembling a perfectly matched pair.

"Gu Sheng, how is Yudie? Does she please you?"

Princess Zishuang suddenly spoke, her voice tinged with playful amusement and her trademark mischievous smile.

Gu Sheng paused briefly before chuckling in response,

"Your Highness jests. Yudie is gentle and considerate—naturally, she is wonderful."

His answer was subtly balanced, neither flippant nor overly flattering.

Princess Zishuang chuckled lightly, seemingly satisfied with his reply.

She then shifted her tone to seriousness and said, "We had an agreement before: you help me unify the realm, and I pledge myself to you. Now that the realm is unified, I cannot share it with you."

Gu Sheng’s heart stirred, sensing that the princess had unfinished intentions.

Remaining calm, he quietly awaited her next words.

Princess Zishuang continued, "Then again, I am not the emperor. What is there to share about the realm?"

Her tone carried an undertone of resignation and dissatisfaction.

Gu Sheng understood instantly—the princess harbored ambitions for the throne itself.

Taking a deep breath, he replied thoughtfully, "Your Highness, the realm is vast and cannot be governed by one alone.

You already wield absolute power in Liang, akin to an emperor. Why cling to an empty title?"

Princess Zishuang’s gaze flickered, a subtle expression crossing her face as she considered his statement.