This battle took longer than expected, but the results remained unchanged.
One year later, an army of 200,000 soldiers returned in triumph.
During this year, the name Yu Wang became widely known, especially for how he led the troops deep into the enemy camp. His achievement of traveling thousands of miles to take the head of the enemy chief was praised throughout the Tian Qi Dynasty.
Today was the day the army commander returned to the city.
Countless people gathered in the market and along the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of Yu Wang's graceful demeanor.
Gu Shengyin also made this trip. Together with Princess Wencheng, she was accompanied by several servants and stood among the crowd, waiting for the triumphant return of the hero.
Soon, the army appeared at the city gates.
General Jiang was riding a large horse at the front, followed closely by Ji Yu, who was fully armored in silver-white.
Spending a year in the army had only enhanced Ji Yu's commanding presence. His elegant face and imposing manner exuded an aura that could make anyone blush with just a glance.
Gu Shengyin had a perfect vantage point. Not only could she see General Jiang, but she could also clearly see Ji Yu.
She had also sent a large gift to Ji Yu—evidence that the Crown Prince had been involved in private dealings and assassinations, which was now on the Emperor's table.
At this moment, Ji Yu's prestige was at its peak. The Emperor intended to change the heir to the throne, and there was no turning back on that matter.
When Ji Yu looked up, he saw Gu Shengyin. He steered his horse toward her, but just as he was about to reach her and speak, his expression suddenly changed.
From the crowd, several armed figures emerged, clearly intent on attacking Ji Yu.
It was obvious that their target was Ji Yu.
Gu Shengyin was quickly surrounded by the guards from Jiangfu for protection.
When Ji Yu saw the attackers, he immediately calmed down and focused on defending himself against the assassins.
These attackers were clearly trained in special tactics, using cunning methods. Even Ji Yu, with all his skills, was at a disadvantage.
What made matters worse was that the soldiers who had been following Ji Yu seemed to panic when they saw the attack. They disregarded General Jiang's orders and fled, leaving the scene in disarray.
Ji Yu was stabbed in the arm by one of the assassins, and his horse wailed before collapsing into a pool of blood.
Ji Yu rolled out of the way, landing not far from Gu Shengyin.
"You, go help Yu Wang," Princess Wencheng decisively ordered. It was clear that the assassins were targeting Ji Yu, and their side was not in danger.
The Jiangfu guards, who were all highly trained elites, quickly joined the battle, significantly easing the pressure on Ji Yu.
In the end, all the assassins were killed. Ji Yu let out a sigh of relief and was about to approach Gu Shengyin.
Gu Shengyin stood there, smiling as she watched him, ready to reveal the surprise she had prepared for him.
But suddenly, Ji Yu's expression shifted to one of panic as he rushed toward Gu Shengyin.
Although Gu Shengyin was suspicious, the system immediately sent a warning to her mind: "Host, be careful…"
It was already too late.
A sharp pain stabbed through her stomach. She looked down and saw a small, exquisite dagger lodged in her. The person holding the dagger had a completely unfamiliar face.
As she began to lose focus, Gu Shengyin felt herself falling into a warm embrace.