Chapter 754

Chapter 754: Total War

On the Eastern Continent, in Luo Capital.

A group of over ten people from the Xiangyu Sect walked through the night market. Several girls held hands, strolling along the bustling stalls by the street. They occasionally laughed and talked about the styles of these small items, exchanging different opinions on their preferences. The male companions were more interested in food. A few of them stood in front of a stall selling swords and knives, unable to move for a long time, as the beautifully crafted and sharp blades held their attention firmly.

Though many of these blades were only Silver-grade and they might not be able to use them, their love for them was akin to how girls feel about pretty dresses; no matter how many pieces they already have in their wardrobe, they always want to buy new ones.

The blade gleamed silver-white under the light, reflecting a purple-blue luster. The connecting parts were intricately engraved with swirling phoenix feathers. The handle was wrapped with indigo anti-slip tough thread, creating a pattern that felt very comfortable when held, making all the spectators reluctant to let go.

After picking up this blade, although it wasn’t light, it was not a problem for an Extraordinary Being to wield it. Swinging it, the silver-blue blade light left a trail like a butterfly dancing gracefully amidst the noisy candlelight. A sense of exhilaration rose in one’s heart, causing them to imagine themselves cutting down enemies with a cool demeanor.

Although it wasn’t particularly powerful, its beauty made it impossible to resist.

In reality, many men were just as irrational when faced with such things. After a round of shopping, the girls had many new trinkets and snacks, while the boys each had a new knife or sword at their waist.

“Wow, look over there! Are they fighting? It looks so exciting.”

One of the companions pointed excitedly at a makeshift arena on one side of the street. Although the arena was crude, it was surrounded by many people.

Torches were planted around the circular arena. On the arena, which was made of rough logs, tree bark could still be seen, but this did not affect the enthusiasm of those on stage. Two men rolled up their sleeves, stood facing each other, and suddenly charged at each other to fight.

Both had Sequence 3 strength, but they did not use their extraordinary abilities during the fight. They relied entirely on their physical strength and limbs. For a moment, there were continuous roars, punches landing on flesh, muscles colliding, sweat flying in tremors, glistening in the firelight.

“Good!”

“Fight well!”

“Hit him, kick his legs!”

“Crush this scoundrel hard!”

Cheering and shouts echoed one after another, growing louder and louder. In this civilized and prosperous metropolis, such sudden excitement caused some surprise.

Humans have a natural desire to attack, but due to reasons like rationality, morality, and law, they often have to restrain many of their thoughts in daily life. Over time, they inevitably feel suppressed and want to release it.

In the information age, this release is mostly through games, but in an era without electronic games, this release might be through hunting, war, or even torture. Why do some spoiled young men enjoy bullying others? It’s because they have too much energy to expend and their status ensures they won’t face retaliation.

Luo Capital, being a gathering place for nobles and the wealthy, naturally attracted many idle and spoiled young men. The nation didn’t need, nor did it have enough positions to accommodate them all, so they had to find their own entertainment.

Recently, this form of unarmed and non-extraordinary combat slowly gained popularity.

At first, it was only popular among noble offspring, since everyone wanted to maintain some face. Losing a fight in front of peers wasn’t a big deal, but losing in front of commoners would be embarrassing.

Later, people found it quite relieving, as they didn’t use extraordinary abilities, and even if the injuries were severe, they wouldn’t be more than minor ones. With excellent medical treatment, they could recover in a day or two.

Gradually, more people joined in, and this form of entertainment spread to servants and then to commoners. Until now, someone finally set up a stage in the streets.

Watching the familiar rules of combat on the stage, Lolan Hill couldn’t help but recall the club she saw at Emanas during her school days, ‘Fist of Fire and Wine’.

She remembered that she and several roommates went to find the club room, and they even met Ye Ling’s cousin, named Nankuo.

Despite the crowd’s keen interest below, the battle on stage was far from impressive for the disciples accompanying Lolan Hill. They were not pampered noble offspring but real Extraordinary Beings who fought beasts. Even internal contests within their sect were much more stimulating and dangerous.

However, seeing Lolan Hill quietly standing by without moving,

Other female students did not pull her away either. After all, Senior Sister Lolan was the current leader of the Xiangyu Sect; it wasn’t too much trouble to accompany her for a while.

Seeing that the female students were not leaving, the male students naturally did not leave prematurely either. Although it wasn’t very exciting, it wasn’t boring either, so they stayed together.

“Alright! Fight!”

“That’s it!”

The surrounding crowd continued to cheer excitedly, as if the punches and kicks on stage were their own. The dull sounds of each strike felt like the most thorough massage in the world, bringing immense relief.

A few minutes later, one of them finally succumbed to exhaustion and fell to the ground. The armored referee stepped out to declare the winner. Cheers and boos erupted from below, with some copper and silver coins being thrown onto the arena.

Most residents in Luo Capital were wealthy. When they enjoyed the show, they always generously rewarded the performers.

During the halftime break and the brief period for changing participants, some spectators began to discuss.

“It’s quite thrilling. It feels even more thrilling than those big sect disciples’ matches,” said a resident dressed in purple, talking to his companion. From his appearance, he seemed to be a well-off commoner in Luo Capital.

“It’s not that the big sect disciples are bad, but their matches are just a blur, ending quickly. There’s nothing to watch.” Perhaps to avoid misunderstanding from the nearby big sect disciples, he explained a bit further.

“Exactly, I love watching this kind of fighting where every punch lands solidly. It’s satisfying!” A large man with a beard chimed in, holding an unfinished gourd of wine.

“If I had money, I’d set up my own arena and have a good time!”

“Good idea. But it might not be easy in Luo Capital. Don’t look at how simple this arena is, but it’s right next to the street. Without connections, it would be hard to get it done. Jealous colleagues would kick it out early.”

“True. Damn, there are so many complications.”

“Who runs this?” he asked casually afterward.

“It seems to be run by a young member of the Ye family. Anyway, only the six great families in Luo Capital have the connections and strength.”

Standing in the bustling market, the cacophony of voices, footsteps, and shouts filled the air. Lolan Hill, with her sharp senses, caught familiar words.

The Ye family? Could this be the family where Ye Ling and her cousin belong? But how should she visit? Looks like she’ll have to ask Senior Brother Gu Lie tomorrow.

Her thoughts turned, and Lolan Hill lost interest in the arena, turning around.

Looking at the dozen or so fellow disciples behind her, she was momentarily surprised but quickly recovered.

“I’m sorry for keeping you all waiting.”

“It’s fine, Senior Sister Lolan,” several female students responded. Then, the group continued toward the night market.

On both sides of the street, buildings were adorned with lanterns and strings of lights. Large red lanterns hung from ropes, illuminating the long night street with a lively and festive atmosphere.

The Mid-Autumn Lantern Festival was approaching.

—

In the Western Continent, in the northern part of the Tiānqǐ Fortress in the Sighing Mountains.

Knights dismounted and led their horses forward. Wrapped in gray-white cloaks, they blended seamlessly into the snowy highlands.

“The commander, ten miles ahead there’s a hidden valley that can be used for rest,” a scout, covered in snow, quickly emerged from the forest and reported to the man leading them.

After listening to the report, the man with a firm face gave instructions. Then, a few others stood out from the rear and followed the scout forward.

He then stood on the snowy mountain, looked southward, and continued forward without a word.

Although he didn’t seem very old, he naturally exuded an aura of authority. Combined with his robust physique and formidable strength, he soon gained the entire legion’s recognition.

This legion was a direct elite force of the royal family of the Crimson Empire, with every member ranked above Sequence 4, well-trained, and decisive in action—far from being a mere facade made up of noble offspring.

Most came from humble backgrounds and joined the military early on, surviving through countless battles against enemies. Later, they were recruited by the new emperor and became the royal household guard. This significantly improved their living conditions and status. Thus, their loyalty to the emperor was unquestionable.

Such a loyal and elite legion would naturally be deployed in the most critical places. They did not act alongside the Duke of the Southern Red Dragon but were ordered to cross the Sighing Mountains, infiltrate behind the Tiānqǐ Fortress, and cut off this giant stronghold’s supply lines.

Logistics.

Over two million people required an astronomical amount of food and supplies. Once cut off, the consequences would be catastrophic. Although this surprise attack was risky, it was still worth a try. Even if it ultimately failed, it would cause headaches for the enemy and divert their attention significantly.

Such a dangerous mission, although highly rewarding after success, was akin to sending someone to their death, naturally no scion from any major family volunteered to participate. In the end, the heavy responsibility of commanding this legion fell on Darsi, a rising star in the military and from a humble background.

This outstanding graduate from Emanas joined the military directly after leaving school.

After the new emperor ascended the throne, he was short on talented individuals and loyal supporters. This genius with a clean background was easily noticed and quickly gained the emperor’s favor.

As a result, he rose rapidly through the ranks, from a regular officer to a cavalry commander, from a centurion to a thousand-man commander, from a member of the Blood Lance Knights to the deputy commander of the Blood Lance Order. This journey took only five years, considered lightning-fast in the rigidly hierarchical empire.

He silenced all doubts with his unparalleled extraordinary strength. In just a few years after the world’s transformation, this extremely diligent genius pushed his own strength to the seventh rank of the War Sequence, making him the undisputed top warrior in the empire’s military.

At the same time, he was bestowed the title of Champion Knight by the emperor. Despite lacking a fiefdom, his status equated to that of a baron.

Thus, even though he came from a lowly background, few in the military now dared to question him. His lifestyle, so arduous that it seemed beyond human endurance, and the sweat that surpassed hundreds of times the effort of others, made every soldier who interacted with him feel a deep sense of awe.

One had to ask oneself honestly, who could achieve such a level? Therefore, resentment gradually dissipated.

After displaying his extraordinary strength within the empire, this well-read strategist and the chief graduate of Bridge Academy would also showcase his remarkable military command talent in this great battle.

There might be names taken in vain, but nicknames never mislead.

The ‘Star of Pure Iron’, Darsi, the genius destined to shine in the West Continent, was rising and shining, welcoming his era.

A month later, the legion that crossed the Sighing Mountains finally reached the verdant wilderness.

Now before them lay a vast, undefended plain. The bustling cities, endless supply caravans, and fertile fields would all become fodder for these bloodthirsty wolves.

Crimson roses fluttered on the banners. Armored knights mounted their horses, lowering their black visors, the clashing of metal armor, followed by the thunderous sound of hooves, gradually accelerating, shaking the beautiful earth like glass.

—Third Age, Year 1696, the Year of the Rampaging Blood Dragons

After renaming the Verdant Empire to the Crimson Empire, the new emperor greatly promoted military power to counterbalance the old nobility. Over the five years since his ascension, he steadily consolidated his position and eventually ordered the westward expedition in the fall of that year.

Nearly two hundred years after the Battle of Broken Bows, the empire launched another full-scale war, with even more troops than before. Under the emperor’s will, the entire nation began to operate vigorously.

The past grievances, dissatisfaction, poverty, and hunger all found a common outlet: war!

All misfortunes could be changed through this.

Enlist, join the expedition, and you will no longer be a beggar, a poor worker, a serf, a thief, or a bandit, but the most sacred warriors of the empire. You will hold swords, wear armor, fight with your will and blood, earn food, gold, women, peerages, and everything else.

No one will mock you, no one will belittle you. You will prove your bravery and glory with sword and fire.

Inspiring slogans spread throughout the empire by the envoys. Those faces, filled with agitation and fervor, licked their lips, raised their arms, and marched toward recruitment centers.

Even those small nobles who knew the empire’s tricks and yearned for restoration joined, while the high nobility, often worried about potential uprisings, no longer obstructed them.

Thus, the fervent tide swept across the empire, changing the conversation in society, aligning all entertainment to this theme.

On the grand carriages, officials in splendid attire continued to shout loudly, their voices echoing like thunder in all directions.

“For the empire’s supreme glory, and for yourselves.”

“Do you wish to initiate a total war?”

“Yes!”

Under the vast sky, the fluttering crimson flags spread across the land, resembling a sea of flames burning the world.

(End of Chapter)