Chapter 14: Mutual Annihilation

The matter was far from over; another wave of mounted bandits who had given chase were still engaged in battle with Wang Wu and his comrades.

Originally, Wang Wu only needed to lead the others in a full retreat, but upon realizing that the pursuing bandits were not numerous, he resolutely chose to continue fighting.

The terror of the mounted bandits lay in their horses, but Wang Wu believed that in ground combat, he still held some advantage.

With a single slash, Wang Wu felled one enemy and shouted, "Think about the life we once lived, and the life we live now. Every one we kill today is a debt repaid to Lord Ning."

Though fear had crept into their hearts before, it had long since been washed away by the surge of courage and bloodlust. One by one, they roared with renewed fury.

Though it had only been half a month, each day brought one meat dish and one vegetable, with rice in ample supply—a life they had scarcely ever known.

Moreover, beyond daily training, Ning Ye never imposed the airs of a superior; right or wrong was always argued through reason.

For those who had once wandered homeless and hungry, if such a life could continue, what did a thousand deaths matter?

They were all flesh and blood, steel meeting steel; the enemy was human too, and a stroke of the blade made no difference.

With Wang Wu, a fierce warrior, leading the charge, the morale of his men soared, while the bandits, struck down one after another, had long since lost theirs.

Had it not been for Wang Wu’s earlier retreat, perhaps these bandits wouldn’t even have dared to pursue.

For a full quarter of an hour, the forest echoed with screams and clashes until the sounds gradually faded.

Wang Wu, broad-shouldered and gripping his steel blade, faced a small, wiry man. “Looks like your men have all fled. You’re the only one left. Why not surrender now?”

The small man held two daggers. “I don’t think so. Maybe my men wiped out yours. The one who should surrender is you.”

Figures emerged from the surrounding forest—villagers armed for the fight. The small man’s face darkened; these were the militia.

Originally twenty-five strong, only eighteen remained—each bearing wounds, some barely clinging to half a life.

Yet in this moment, they were like demons clawing their way from hell, battered but burning with fierce resolve.

If Ning Ye were here, he would surely be heartened; at least these men had not disappointed him—they had done well.

Wang Wu stepped closer to the small man. “Come on. Your men are dead. Now it’s just you, the leader. You killed two of my brothers just now. I’ll give you a chance: one-on-one.”

The small man’s eyes gleamed with madness. “Never thought I’d fall to a bunch of trash like you. If I kill you, will you let me go?”

Wang Wu sneered. “You’re dreaming. If you have the guts, try it.”

Their battle ignited instantly. Wang Wu’s great blade swung in wide, sweeping arcs, but this time with more cunning, honed by countless duels against Ning Ye.

The small man was no meek dwarf; his body’s agility allowed him to evade many attacks and exploit openings others could not.

Their duel was a thrilling contest of warrior against assassin.

From the outset, Wang Wu realized that in his former self he could not have bested this man; he was stronger than imagined.

Yet when comparing this small man’s style to Ning Ye’s, Wang Wu saw clear patterns. The small man’s attacks were crude and clumsy in contrast.

Following this insight, Wang Wu soon pressed the advantage. Though difficult to kill when unable to find an opening, once he understood the rhythm, Wang Wu’s steel blade slid easily into the man’s chest.

Without a word, that stroke ended the man’s life.

Wang Wu then beheaded him, raising the severed head high. “Tonight is our victory. Let’s take the others and head home. And don’t leave behind what’s rightfully ours.”

When Wang Wu and his men returned, Ning Ye was already waiting at the foot of the mountain.

Upon seeing his men return, Ning Ye’s eyes flickered with emotion; clearly they had done more than he had expected.

Perhaps underestimating others is not always wise.

Each held a bloodied head in hand, believing these trophies proved their valor.

Behind them, they carried the confiscated weapons; other spoils had long been pocketed, leaving nothing for the bandits.

Ning Ye nodded firmly. “You did very well, but I must tell you, this is not over. We may have to fight again.”

Wang Wu clasped his fists. “By your orders, sir, whatever commands you give, we will follow.”

“Set down what you’re carrying and rest here for a moment. I’ll go get something.”

With that, Ning Ye turned alone toward the shadows, ensuring no one could see him clearly.

His system panel remained open; he had yet to redeem this week’s rewards.

[This week’s shop items have been randomly refreshed.]

[Ten refined steel broad swords, redeemable for one tael of silver.]

[Ten hardwood spears, redeemable for three hundred copper coins.]

[One emergency medical kit, redeemable for one hundred coins.]

[A pack of Sweetheart lollipops, redeemable for ten coins.]

[Two civilian-grade composite crossbows (with thirty bolts), redeemable for one hundred coins.]

Ning Ye was quite pleased with this selection. Aside from the oddly appearing lollipops, the rest were essential supplies.