As Shi Liu surveyed the surrounding palace grounds. He kept his heart rate steady, ensuring none of his Qi flared nonsensically. His eyes took in every detail as he returned from his reconnaissance.
As steady as his heart beat, he could still smell the smoke from the fires of that night waft into his nose, whilst he approached the inventory warehouse. Will this plan work? He mused sourly.
Shi Liu pushed the door open and the towering shelves of the warehouse came into sight from dimly lit candles they used. On the shelves were an array of items used within the palace, from silken fabrics and porcelain dishes to weaponry and scrolls.
The air was thick with the mingled aromas of wood, metal, and parchment, while the faint creaking of the shelves served as a quiet reminder of the immense weight they bore.
Shi Jiu stared at him as he entered, leg swinging from the shelf he was sitting on, feeling the moonlight shine on his scared skin.
Zhu Mo Shi sat on the ground, fixed in the lotus position, swirling his Qi as he practiced his internal arts. Without any preamble, Shi Liu knelt in front of him “Master,” He said.
“Was the Minister’s map correct?”
“Yes Master, Minister Song has the crown prince’s residence on the map. Its. on the eastern section of the compound. Prince Lanfeng’s is on the southeast, making his residence the closest to us right now, whilst Prince Jin’s residence sits adjacent to Concubine Rui’s residence.”
“Ah…so the rumors are true. Concubine Rui has been taking care of Prince Jin in light of his mother’s death.” Zhu Mo Shi said calmly. “…and?”
“We have to be wary of the current Dingshes Shi Tong, Shi Hai, Shi Chen, Shi Xue and Shi Ying,”
“Is Shi Xue’s guarding a concubine?”
“No sir, he’s guarding the Youngest Prince.”
“Ahh…I see, were you able to decipher their realms?”
“Yes Sir, Shi Hai’s the Divination Realm, Shi Chen is at the Mind Awakening Realm, Shi Ying Mind Awakening Realm, Shi Tong is also of the Divination Realm whilst Shi Xue is at the Accentuation Realm. Just those five guard the Harem and Princes courtyards.”
Shi Jiu’s eyes gleamed with analytical intensity as he interjected, “That means the remaining four are the guarding the Emperor himself, Master.”
Zhu Mo Shi stroked his chin thoughtfully, his brows furrowing as he considered the possibilities. “No, that’s not the case. The Dingshes that have replaced us are guarding the Emperor.”He said calmly, gaze sharpening. “I found Shi Xi and Shi Yusheng.”
He paused, shaking his head whilst he tried not to laugh bitterly, making Shi Liu suspicious. “I really do owe you an apology Shi Liu, it seems you were right. It’s not Shi Yusheng anymore, but ‘Zhu’ Yusheng Shi.”
Shi Jiu scoffed, whilst Shi Liu’s involuntarily clenched his fists. A surge of emotion swept through him as the memory of Shi Yusheng’s betrayal resurfaced.
It was Yusheng who claimed their Zhu Mo Shi had requested his presence within the Western Library. But the truth was far darker; it had been a scheme to eliminate the three of them, as they were perceived to be more loyal to Zhu Mo Shi than the Emperor.
Yet, Shi Liu’s loyalties were far more complex. Though he had never been entirely devoted to Zhu Mo Shi, he had never betrayed the Emperor either.
His allegiance remained a tangled enigma, a knot he struggled to unravel as the years passed. Even after fifteen long years, the secret Zhu Mo Shi had promised to reveal remained shrouded in mystery, fueling Shi Liu’s frustration.
The taste of unfulfilled promises and the bitter tang of betrayal lingered on his tongue, making it difficult to swallow. But how could he turn his back on the man who had saved him from poverty and taught him the art of combat?
“That bastard inherited the title of ‘Zhu’” Zhu Mo Shi said calmly. “Let’s see if he deserves such a title.”
He pulled a piece of paper from his sleeve and unfolded it. The sound of paper uncrumpling was welcomed pleasure as it knocked the dizziness from Shi Liu’s mind. He wasn’t one to think idly, but with the memories of Shi Yusheng made him sour, more than he’d ever want to admit. “Come…” Zhu Mo Shi said firmly.
Shi Jiu leapt off the shelf, kicking off and soaring towards Zhu Mo Shi. Shi Liu stalked up to the edge of the paper and sat crossed leg
Zhu Mo Shi pointed at the map and began. “I will set the new western library ablaze, to draw everyone’s attention.” He said firmly. “Shi Liu, your task will be to assassinate the Emperor's children and concubines.”
He then turned to Shi Jiu, his eyes narrowing. “Your objective is to eliminate the Dingshes poison detector and support Shi Liu in exterminating the Emperor’s descendants. He might be able to handle Shi Xue alone.”
But Shi Liu unsettled mind, just wouldn’t let it go. “I want to kill Shi Yusheng.” Shi Liu said firmly.
The air in the room seemed to thicken as the three men stared at one another, their eyes revealing a storm of emotions beneath the surface. A faint echo of a distant gong reverberated through the warehouse, marking the passage of time as they prepared to step into the fray.
As the strands of loyalty and betrayal intertwined, they prepared to step into the fray, each driven by a unique and deeply personal motivation.
Zhu Mo Shi regarded Shi Liu for a moment, taking in the fire burning in his eyes. Shi Liu tried to keep calm himself down, it wasn’t like him for make such requests, but Shi Yusheng’s blood had to be spilled, and he believe it was his right.
“Shi Liu…Shi Jiu, I understand, but the success of our mission is more important that our inclination for revenge. The success of this mission is our Revenge.” He said calmly. “I will handle Shi Yusheng. After you’ve dealt with the inept Dingshes guarding the Emperor’s family head for the Emperors courtyard. Understood?”
“Yes Master,” They said in unison.
“Good…now get some rest. I’ll be speaking with the both of you separately before we begin.
“Yes Master.”
Shi Liu nodded, his resolve hardening. The desire for revenge was strong, but he also understood the importance of the greater mission they had undertaken. They would need to work together, unified by their shared purpose, if they were to have any chance of success.
----------------------------------------
“Shi Liu, I know you’ve done everything I’ve asked without asking a thing. I appreciate that more than I can ever give, but in life. They are some burdens that you don’t pass on.”
If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.
“I’ve come this far Master, it’s not a burden…but a privilege.”
“You won’t think so after you’ve learn what I have to say. So I’ll ask for the last time. Do you still want to know why the Emperor tried to kill us?”
Shi Liu knew his answer, but instead of blurting it out. He steadied his mind and thought of everything they’ve been through ever since the fire.
He took a deep breath, his mind racing as he revisited the countless trials and tribulations they had faced together since that fateful night of the fire.
When they arrived at Prince Zheng’s resident, he throw them in prison for a year, before even hearing out pleas.
Shi Liu wouldn’t had mind being in prison, at least he would’ve had some semblance of silence, but Shi Jiu almost died three times because infection. If Prince Zheng didn’t need someone killed, we would still be rotting.
Pain, Sorrow, Frustration melded with the betrayals they’d endured is something Shi Liu will never forget, like an ever-present shadow.
And yet, despite the darkness, they had also found strength and purpose in one another, forging an unbreakable bond.
Shi Liu he looked Zhu Mo Shi in the eye, his gaze was firm, impenetrable showing his resolve. “Yes, Master. I want to help carry your burden.”
Zhu Mo Shi studied Shi Liu for a moment, his eyes searching for any hint of doubt.
The only thing he could find was unwavering determination. With a heavy sigh, he nodded. “Very well. I will share with you the truth that has been hidden for so long. But remember, once you learn it, there's no going back.”
“I understand Master,”
“In our youth, the Emperor and I were close. Very very close. I dare say close as brothers,” Zhu Mo Shi said, voice filled with melancholy. “As a young Dingshe."
The previous Emperor had assigned me to guard the Emperor. I was his assistant and he didn’t know the Black Cauldron existed. As a dingshe, my duty was to the Emperor, so everything he did I reported back. But there was a time, I didn’t report back everything and that was my mistake.”
“You don’t make mistakes Master.” Shi Liu said, narrowing his eyes.
“Cut the pleasantries Shi Liu,” Zhu Mo Shi growled in a low tone.
“Yes Master,”
He groaned a sigh, shaking his head and then nodded after a few moments. It was as if it pained him to continue as Shi Liu saw the pain resonating on his face. “Are you aware of the tale of Emperor’s pilgrimage into the Barren Lands?” Zhu Mo Shi said, gaze distant as if he were living in that time himself.
Shi Liu nodded. “Yes, it’s said that the journey through the Barren Lands which molded him into the Emperor he is today.”
Zhu Mo Shi shook his head, a sad smile appearing on his lips. He turned to Shi Liu and looked him dead in the eye. “That’s a lie. The Emperor never set foot in the Barren Lands until he was making his return from his pilgrimage.”
“Making his return?”
“Yes.”
“What really happened?”
“We embarked on a voyage to sale west. The Emperor was hoping to discover new lands to trade with. Within a week of our voyage, pirates attacked our ships, and we were left stranded, saved only by a wayward Axsumite prince.” He said, trailing into a snarl.
Shock swelled within Shi Liu. He didn’t know what to say. He was speechless…but still found the rights words “an Axsumite prince? Master?”
“Yes, an Axsumite.”
“Why would an Axsumite save the prince? Didn’t the first Emperor slay the Demon Axsumite Emperor when he tried to conquer Huaxia.”
“You’re misunderstanding something Shi Liu. The Axsumite didn’t know we were from the imperial family, they thought we were merchants.”
“Ah…what happened?”
“What else could happen, he took us to Axsum.”
“You’ve been to Axsum, Master?”
“I have…Axsum is a place unlike any other found in Huaxia. Its teeming with life and bursting with color. The lush greenery stretches as far as the eye can see, and the air is filled with the intoxicating scent of exotic spices. The people of Axsum have a deep connection to their culture” He said firmly, “One that captivated the Emperor during our three-year stay.”
“You spent three years there?”
“Yes, we did. It was the Emperor’s idea. He believed that if they could make a relation with the Axsumites, we could begin trade…”
“But the First Emperor’s writ…”
“Outdated…”
“What?” Shi Liu asked confused.
“That’s what the Emperor called it. Outdated.”
“Why would the Emperor say the First Emperor’s writ, be outdated?”
“…because that's what the Emperor believes…”
“I don’t understand,”
“…neither do I…” Zhu Mo Shi said, shaking his head. “But that doesn’t matter. As the three years passed, The Emperor learned as much as he could of their their culture and language. Once he was satisfied, we ventured through the Barren Lands. Whilst we were there, he constructed a plan to tell his father he journeyed through the Barren Lands,” Zhu Mo Shi said, his expression darkening with the memory.
“What was the previous Emperor’s thoughts of your trip to Axsum?”
“That’s where I failed. I didn’t say anything. I thought the Emperor’s curiosity was about Axsum was just a way for us to prepare for another invasion, just in case. You see…Axsum has seven princes, all descending from the Demon Emperor’s seven sons. After The First Emperor killed the Demon Emperor, the sons retreated form Huaxia and began fighting for control of the Axsum. Despite four hundred years passing, the battle for Axsum is still at hand…its funny.”
“What happened when you returned, Master?”
“The Emperor built up his reputation with the people and the surrounding Governors and Princes alike. The previous Emperor saw this and crowned as his heir to his brother’s frustration.”
“Was a Civil War brewing?”
“No, the Emperor made his brothers and cousins Governors, ensuring satisfaction throughout the Empire. Leaving no room for Civil War. None of this matters Shi Liu, because all these years the Emperor had been in contact with the very prince that saved him.”
“What?!”
“To begin Trade with Axsum…men that killed our people.”
Fury roiled within Shi Liu, our Emperor conspires with Axsum? This cannot be! He thought bitterly, “this cannot be,”
“It is Shi Liu. The heavens themselves have ordained I, be the one to strike him down. I swear it. If not, I will not live in peace!”
“Master, how did you find out?”
“How else, he came to me asking my thoughts. I told him my displeasure of Axsum and its people. He smiled and agreed with me. He told me I was right…then he burned the very library I stood in to make sure no one else could go against him.”
“Like Prince Zheng?”
“Yes, like Prince Zheng!”
As Shi Liu took a deep breathe and soaked in everything his master had told him. Everything began to make sense. Being imprisoned by Prince Zheng for a year, then being sent on various mission to prove our loyalty.
Then given a mission to find a wayward band of bandits to kill a boat filled with Axsumites. It was because the Emperor had invited them here, Shi Liu thought.
“Master how did you know about the Axsumites inbound?”
“I didn’t. Prince Zheng said he received word from one of his spies that Axsumites were making their through the red river.”
A vein popped out on Zhu Mo Shi’s forehead, making him seem a lot more sour than usual. Shi Liu watched him nod, trying to form words, which made him consider speaking, but this wasn’t the time to speak.
As Zhu Mo Shi continued to nod, he finally licked his lips and stopped nodding and stared into Shi Liu soul, making him feel uneasy. “Shi Liu…I plan to die after killing the Emperor. The mess I’ve caused you and Shi Jiu shouldn’t have come to past.”
“Master!” Shi Liu pleaded.
“Listen to Shi Liu!”
The ball that had been swelling within Shi Liu stomach for all these years, had finally settled into his throat. If he had known this was where not knowing would’ve led, he would’ve quelled his annoyance and frustration. Master can’t die…he’s too young.
“Master!”
“Listen. To. Me. Shi. Liu.” He growled.
As Shi Liu tried to protest. The stern look Zhu Mo Shi gave him, silenced him instantly. It was like he was a child once again, being punished for not listening. He hated feeling like this, but he respected his master regardless of what he thought or disagreed with. “The reason why I am choosing death after the Emperor’s death, is because Prince Zheng doesn’t trust us. Once the Emperor is dead. Take my head back to Prince Zheng and swear allegiance to him.”
“I refuse,”
A loud slap echoed across the room, followed by a stinging sensation pulsing on Shi Liu cheeks. Before he could realise, his eyes were eyeing a shelf to his left. His right cheek began pulsing intensely. “You will do as you are told.”
“Master.”
“I am no longer your master Zhu Liu Shi…you are now the leader of the Black Cauldron. Regardless of what your thoughts are. You cannot refuse this. Do you understand me?”
Shi Liu's heart ached with the weight of Zhu Mo Shi's words. He understood the necessity of his master’s decision, but that didn't make the idea of losing him any easier to bear.
His eyes glistened with unshed tears, but he swallowed the lump in his throat and steadied himself, knowing that he had to honor his master's final request.
“I understand, Master,” Shi Liu said, his voice heavy with sorrow. “I will do as you ask.”
Zhu Mo Shi nodded solemnly, his gaze filled with a mix of pride and sadness as he looked upon his student. “That is all I can ask of you, Shi Liu. You have grown into a strong, capable man, and I know you will continue to do great things in the future. Never forget the lessons I have taught you, and always remember the bond we share. That is the greatest tribute you can give me.”
Shi Liu bowed deeply, his heart heavy but resolute. “I will not forget, Master. I promise to right your wrongs and rebuild the Black Cauldron with the same honor and dedication that you have shown.”
As the two shared a moment of quiet understanding, the weight of the task ahead settled upon Shi Liu’s shoulders. He knew that the road ahead would be filled with danger and heartache, but he was determined to see it through to the end.
“Rise Zhu Liu Shi…Zhu of the Black Cauldron.”