The Myth of Daqin: The Soul of Yi Xiaochuan

Led by Xiang Liang, the three men trekked through mountains and rivers, finally arriving outside Kuaiji City. They thought they could breathe a sigh of relief, but when they looked up at the city wall, they were shocked to see wanted posters of the four of them! This sudden turn of events caught everyone off guard. They stared at each other with wide eyes, their hearts filled with unspeakable fear and anxiety. The wanted posters were like a bolt from the blue, shattering their temporary peace.

Qin Yi thought for a moment and suggested to Xiang Liang, "Master, why don't we disguise ourselves as beggars? This would have two advantages. First, the situation in Chu is currently turbulent, and the poor people have no land to farm or food to eat. Disguised as beggars, we can hide more easily. Second, beggars are dressed in rags, are filthy, and smell terrible. The soldiers guarding the gates will definitely not want to check us closely."

However, after hearing this, Xiang Yu shook his head without hesitation and said with a righteous face: "I, Xiang Yu, am a man of seven feet tall and upright. When I meet the enemy, I should fight bravely, either kill them on the horse, or die with them. How can I get away with such despicable means!" His voice was sonorous and powerful, and his eyes were firm, as if telling everyone that he would never do anything that would damage his dignity and honor.

Xiang Liang had initially looked pleased after hearing Qin Yi's plan, but when he heard Xiang Yu's words about perishing alongside the enemy, his expression instantly darkened. He stared at Xiang Yu with wide eyes, his voice tinged with irritation, "Yu'er! Have you forgotten my warnings? How many times have I told you that in life, you must possess not only courage but also wisdom. You must not act on impulse and become a mere coward!"

His tone was harsh and heavy, like a hammer striking Xiang Yu's heart. Xiang Yu lowered his head, a wave of guilt welling up in his heart. He knew his previous thoughts had been somewhat reckless, but at the same time, he felt deeply wronged. He simply wanted to avenge his father as quickly as possible.

Seeing Xiang Yu's silence and head bowed, Xiang Liang softened his tone slightly. He stepped forward, patted Xiang Yu on the shoulder, and said earnestly, "Yu'er, I understand your resentment toward your enemies, but we must not let hatred blind us. If you want to achieve great things, you must learn to be patient and bide your time. With your current strength and wisdom, acting rashly will only cost you your life."

Xiang Yu raised his head, his eyes gleaming with determination. He gritted his teeth and said, "Uncle, you're right. I know I was wrong. But I won't forget this blood feud for even a moment! Please rest assured, Uncle, I'll work harder in the future, learn the ways of wisdom and courage, and kill my enemies with my own hands!"

Xiang Liang nodded, a flicker of admiration in his eyes. He knew Xiang Yu was a stubborn and determined child; once he set his sights on a goal, he would go all out. So he consoled him, "Good boy, I believe you can accomplish it. But before that, we need to think long and hard and formulate a perfect plan. Remember, revenge can't be rushed; we must be fully prepared and wait for the perfect opportunity."

At the same time, Xiang Liang gazed at Qin Yi, feeling an indescribable sense of relief. He secretly thanked himself for having accepted this apprentice, for he was not only incredibly brave, but also possessed wisdom and adaptability. Qin Yi's performance deeply satisfied Xiang Liang, who knew that such talent was rare.

Xiang Liang couldn't help but imagine that if Qin Yi was willing to follow him wholeheartedly, he would surely become a powerful ally of the Xiang family in the future. He believed that Qin Yi had extraordinary potential and that given time, he would surely distinguish himself on the battlefield and achieve great military exploits for the Xiang family.

Furthermore, Xiang Liang felt that Qin Yi might have a positive influence on Xiang Yu. Though Xiang Yu was a brave warrior, he also possessed a strong character and was prone to impulsive behavior. With Qin Yi's assistance, able to curb his temper and guide him toward more rational decision-making, the Xiang clan would undoubtedly be strengthened, and there was no worry that they would not achieve something truly earth-shattering. With this thought, Xiang Liang was filled with anticipation for the future, and all of this hope rested on Xiang Yu and Qin Yi.

Xiang Yu pondered this matter. He knew the importance of this mission and Xiang Liang's expectations of him. He resolved to demonstrate his strength and live up to Xiang Liang's trust. He was also filled with curiosity about Qin Yi. This young man's performance had impressed him, and he looked forward to fighting alongside him and working together for the future of the Xiang clan.

Qin Yi's heart was filled with tension and excitement. He secretly told himself to remain calm at all times.

Then, the four disguised themselves and successfully entered the city without being carefully checked by the guards. They were nervous and excited at the same time, silently praying that the next step would go smoothly.