Chapter 436: Meeting a Soulmate Over Wine

"If I'm not mistaken, you recently conquered the Southern Empire and killed some ancestral elders of the Northern Jin Sword Alliance. Your sudden presence here suggests you are more foe than friend."

Murong Jian showed no trace of panic; he remained calm and composed.

Xu Yang's keen observation revealed that while Murong Jian's cultivation was only at the initial stage of Tribulation Transcendence, his mental fortitude far surpassed that of Ji Wufeng and his group. Even among Xu Yang's own companions, only the Empress and Wushuang, the strongest among them, could truly rival him.

"I don't see it that way. In my estimation, General Murong stands in a league of his own."

Given Xu Yang's power and standing, there was no one on the entire continent worth flattering. Any praise he offered was a sincere expression of admiration.

"Oh? Then please tell me, in your eyes, what kind of person is Murong Jian?"

"Unyielding integrity, a true hero of our time."

These eight concise words perfectly captured Murong Jian's essence.

"While you hail from the Northern Jin Sword Alliance, I understand you maintain no close ties with the Alliance or your family. You possess your own beliefs and ambitions, and most importantly, an unwavering conviction you steadfastly uphold. These are the qualities I, Xu Yang, value above all else. Therefore, I've come here to seek your cooperation."

A sense of mutual appreciation instantly bloomed between Murong Jian and Xu Yang. This was not born of perceived utility, but the genesis of a true gentleman's friendship, cultivated from a foundation of genuine admiration that transcended all other considerations.

Murong Jian's demeanor undeniably conveyed to Xu Yang that his decision to come here was profoundly correct.

"How do you propose we cooperate?"

Xu Yang subtly gestured behind him, and Long Kun immediately presented a delicate brocade box to Murong Jian.

A silent burst of energy struck the box's surface, and the next moment, a potent, bloody scent filled the air. Inside, a human head was starkly displayed.

"General, you must be familiar with this individual: A'gu Zhan, the most infamous bloodthirsty demon of the borderlands. It's rumored he devoured alive over three hundred zealous warriors captured at the border just a week ago. I trust this gift is to your satisfaction, General."

Murong Jian drew a sharp breath, re-covered the box, and a flicker of emotion stirred in his eyes.

He had planned to personally avenge his fallen comrades, but A'gu Zhan was also a supreme expert. Murong Jian found himself torn between protecting the city's inhabitants and seeking retribution for his brothers; loyalty and righteousness proved difficult to reconcile.

Now, Xu Yang's arrival had unexpectedly resolved a persistent concern for him.

"I, Murong Jian, will remember this favor. However, I am merely a military general of the Northern Imperial Dynasty. Given your esteemed status, to seek cooperation with me is surely to overestimate my importance."

This time, before Xu Yang could even speak, Ling Yao, standing behind him, quickly interjected, "Our leader's intention is for both sides to unite, completely eradicate the border threats in the northern regions, and support your return to the imperial capital to assume regency. You would become the Grand Marshal of the Northern Territories, commanding a million-strong army."

Murong Jian was not a man who craved official power, but the phrase "completely eradicate the border threats" truly captured his attention.

"Can you truly eradicate those barbarians from the Northern Frontier? They are savage beasts who devour people whole, leaving no bones. How can they possibly be defeated by individual power alone?"

Long Kun chuckled heartily, "My leader possesses wisdom and courage far beyond ordinary men, General Murong. Please trust us; we are simply awaiting your decision. If you let this opportunity pass, when will these northern border threats ever be eliminated? This isn't just about helping us; it's about helping yourself and the countless lives across the entire northern region of the Three Thousand Dao Provinces!"

Murong Jian gazed deeply at Xu Yang, whose eyes were so clear and profound that no one seemed able to discern the true emotions hidden within them.

"Very well, I agree to cooperate with you! Nothing else matters to me. As long as the Ghost Wolf Clan can be eradicated, Murong Jian will die without regret!"

Xu Yang's lips finally curved into a satisfied smile. "Who said you would die? Once you agree to cooperate, you and I will be comrades-in-arms, as close as family! No one can harm a companion of Xu Yang!"

His voice, commanding respect without needing anger, resonated with the imposing aura of a supreme ruler.

The current Xu Yang seemed significantly different from when he first left the Sky Azure Sect. It was this journey, rich with experiences and profound bonds forged with his companions, that gradually made him more empathetic. He transformed from an unapproachable, immortal-like figure untainted by worldly concerns into a benevolent individual with deep compassion for all living beings.

This metamorphosis in his character was precisely what elevated his cultivation. Had he remained his former self, he might never have comprehended such a profound mental state as the Heavenly Eye, even throughout his entire life.

Undeniably, once again, Xu Yang had won over Murong Jian—a man who should have been his adversary—through his personal charisma and sincere demeanor.

That evening, Murong Jian personally hosted a banquet in his somewhat crude military tent. In this harsh and bitter borderland, there wasn't even any heating.

It was clear he was a practical man, never seeking superficial embellishments. For him, simple shelter from wind and rain was entirely sufficient.

"The border is harsh and cold; even sustaining our soldiers is a challenge. Please don't find this meal lacking."

Looking at the few meager dishes Murong Jian presented, which would barely suffice for Xu Yang's pets, he was surprised to see Xu Yang and his two companions eating with great relish.

"You..."

Xu Yang chuckled, "General, your heart is with the people. Why wouldn't we three be delighted to share a meal and drink with you?"

"Hahaha! Brother Xu Yang, do you know that among the cultivators of the Northern Jin Sword Alliance, everyone considers you a demon god, someone no one wishes to face! Yet, I never imagined you possessed such charm."

Murong Jian tilted his head back and took a long swig of wine.

In truth, for years, he had endured deep frustration leading his soldiers to defend the border alone. Though external enemies feared his strength and strategy, and his own soldiers admired his talent and unwavering integrity, he was regrettably never fully utilized. He often felt isolated amidst the constant turmoil.

Now, Xu Yang's appearance was like a guiding star, illuminating the vast darkness that had shrouded his path.

One who walks in perpetual night does not yearn for dawn, but a guiding star can become an irreplaceable faith.

"Very well, after this drink, we three will accompany you, General, to charge deep into the Northern Frontier. We will fight alongside you to your heart's content, allowing you to vent the frustrations you've carried for years!"

"Excellent!"

With a pot of rough wine and spears in hand, the three of them galloped out of the city with Murong Jian, riding directly into the endless dark night at the far reaches of the Northern Frontier...

Little did they know, a slaughter that would send shockwaves throughout the entire Northern Frontier was about to commence.