Chapter 22: Crisis Lurking in the Shadows (3) Huaxia Book Network

  As he said this, Zhao Yun, Gao Shun and Zhang Liao exchanged glances of surprise. With just one incomplete sentence, a glance and an expression, Liu Zhang was able to think of so much in an instant. This lord's thoughts were indeed meticulous and far-reaching, truly worthy of admiration.

  Although these are just assumptions, in this chaotic era, it is often easy to overlook a possibility that could lead to disaster. Making multiple assumptions and planning ahead of time is the most secure approach. Having a leader like this is truly fortunate for those under him.

  "...When the northern power, whose face changed color when it heard the news, joined forces with Abaerhemei, who deeply resented us, and formed a threat to the very survival of the entire Wumu tribe, then as the tribal chief, there was no room for hesitation. Liu Zhang's mouth curled up in a mocking smile as he continued to explain indifferently."

  "Throughout history, for the sake of survival, people have betrayed their faith and committed heinous crimes such as parricide. In this desolate land beyond the Great Wall, such incidents are all too common. If Ukum and Eketu are also ruthless, how can they possibly care about An Qi'er's fate? With the lives of our four-person party at stake, and the unpublicized feelings between An Qi'er and me, we can't help but wonder: is it possible to exchange these for the safety of the entire tribe?"

  Liu Zhang smiled coldly, and Zhao Yun, Gao Shun, and Zhang Liao all had a slight change in expression.

  "Zi Long and I have a bond of gold and orchid, but no more need be said. However, you, Gao Shun, and Wen Yan followed Liu Zhang when he had neither troops nor power, with wholehearted devotion and overflowing emotions. How could Liu Zhang indulge in his own pleasures, sunk in private affairs between father and daughter, without being vigilant, and put you all in a life-and-death situation?"

  Gao Shun and Zhang Liao suddenly lifted their heads towards Liu Zhang, with tears in their eyes and a look of deep emotion on their faces.

  "Angel is dear to me, don't I know? But if something unbearable were to happen, I would become sworn enemies with her father and ancestors. At that time, wouldn't she be caught in the middle and driven to death? I'd rather have her hate me for life! Alas, being heartless isn't necessarily being a true man, but sometimes being heartless is better than being emotional. The bitter and sweet are only known to oneself, why bother letting others know? Zilong, you're my brother, I don't want you to harbor resentment in your heart, that's why I'm saying more, can you understand?"

  Liu Zhang said this, his calm face twitched slightly twice. Zhao Yun heard the words, feeling both moved and ashamed, softly called out: "Big brother....."

  Liu Zhang took a deep breath, smiled and waved his hand: "Hehe, actually we don't have to be overly pessimistic. As for what will happen later, it depends on how Wuyuan and Eketu behave. If they take the initiative to come find us, it means that they can still cherish our friendship and uphold justice, and all these previous arrangements would be unnecessary. At that time, you and I just need to work together with all our might, defeat our common enemy, and naturally everyone will be happy. But if they summon me over..."

  Several people walked and talked, until they arrived at the front of the tent. Several people had already planned to stop. Each returned to their own tent to pack up, and then they all gathered in Liu Zhang's tent, secretly preparing for battle.

  Time passed minute by minute, second by second. When the sun had set and the moon had risen, a sudden burst of chaotic footsteps was heard outside the tent, heading straight for the tent where the four people were. Zhao, Gao, and Zhang's bodies all shook at the same time, their eyes fixed on the entrance of the tent.