Chapter 36: Accepting the Challenge

As the command rang out, three thousand soldiers swiftly removed their worn armor and retrieved sets of brand-new plate armor from the rear of the formation.

These plates were jet black, with sharp, distinct edges. Each piece was remarkably thick and heavy, its surface polished smooth like a mirror, clearly the product of a special forging technique.

What was even more astonishing was the design of these armors, which was completely unlike any armor previously seen in the Great Wilderness. Not only did they cover a greater area, but they also fit the body more snugly, embodying both majesty and practicality.

“What kind of armor is this?!” Liang Li’s expression suddenly shifted.

Though well-traveled and knowledgeable, he had never encountered such armor before. The iron armor of the Southern Kingdom, though formidable, now seemed crude in comparison to the gleaming black plate before him.

He had a vague sense that the material and craftsmanship of these armors far exceeded his understanding of the Great Wilderness army.

In fact, these were the bulletproof plate armors Chu Nan had procured through his shop yesterday, sourced from the modern era. Though these armors were replicas of modern craftsmanship, their protective strength was by no means inferior to traditional heavy armor.

“Everyone, raise your shields!” Chu Nan commanded once more.

After donning the plate armor, the soldiers simultaneously lifted their shields. These shields, too, had been reinforced with modern technology. While their shape resembled ancient shields, their durability far surpassed them.

The shield formation became an impenetrable wall of bronze and iron, instantly sealing off the front of the entire phalanx, as if not even the wind could penetrate.

Liang Li’s face shifted from disdain to shock. His attendant whispered, “If this truly represents the Great Wilderness’ forces, their equipment already far surpasses ours!”

Liang Li snorted coldly, trying to steady himself, but the unease in his eyes was unmistakable.

“All units, commence drills!” Chu Nan issued the next order.

The soldiers quickly dispersed, dividing into several squads. Each squad formed a phalanx base, executing various tactical maneuvers under Chu Nan’s direction.

Their movements were swift and fluid, each formation change flowing seamlessly like drifting clouds or flowing water. Spears thrust forward, shields flipped in defense; the entire battlefield resembled a highly efficient war machine in motion.

The Southern Kingdom delegation watched in stunned silence.

They had assumed the Great Wilderness troops were a loose band of soldiers, but this formidable display utterly shattered their expectations.

Cold sweat crept down Liang Li’s forehead.

He fixed his gaze darkly on Chu Nan, searching for any sign of weakness.

But Chu Nan remained calm and composed, as if everything was under perfect control.

When the review concluded, Chu Nan ascended the viewing platform and smiled faintly at Liang Li. “Envoy, what do you think?”

Liang Li forced a steady tone and gritted his teeth. “The Great Wilderness army… is indeed extraordinary. But should war break out, you may not necessarily prevail.”

Chu Nan smiled lightly, his voice low but resolute. “Whether we win or lose, that can only be known in battle. But I advise you, envoy, to think carefully before acting. The cost of war may be more than you can bear.”

Liang Li’s face darkened, unable to retort.

This army before him was enough to threaten the elite of the Southern Kingdom.

And Chu Nan’s calm yet certain tone sent an unmistakable chill through his heart.

At this moment, Cheng Lingyu spoke up coldly, “Envoy, now that you have inspected the Northern Camp, is there anything else His Majesty can arrange for you?”

Liang Li took a deep breath, suppressing his inner turmoil, and bowed. “No need... Your Majesty’s army certainly lives up to its reputation. I have seen it with my own eyes.”

Cheng Lingyu smiled faintly, her eyes sharp as frost. “In that case, envoy, please return and convey to your Southern Emperor: if war is truly desired, the Great Wilderness will be ready at any time.”

The wind cut like a blade, the chill deepening, and the atmosphere in the drill ground froze instantly at Liang Li’s words.

“Since the Great Wilderness army is so mighty, why not let your warriors face our Southern fighters in a contest?”

Liang Li narrowed his eyes, a disdainful smile curling his lips as he clasped his hands behind his back, speaking with full provocation.

Though shaken by the review, the Southern delegation had always been proud and domineering. He refused to be overshadowed and had to reclaim face.

A one-on-one duel was Liang Li’s last gambit for a comeback.

He was convinced the Great Wilderness’ so-called “disciplined iron army” was mere showmanship; in personal combat, the Southern warriors would never be defeated!

Hearing Liang Li’s words, the soldiers within the Northern Camp erupted in uproar.

“What arrogant Southern warriors, daring to challenge us!”

“Yes! Send a brother up to teach them a lesson!”

“Let them know the Great Wilderness is no easy target!”

The soldiers were roused to anger, yet beneath it lay some unease.

Everyone knew the Southern Kingdom was famous for producing fierce warriors with exceptional individual combat prowess.

If they rashly accepted the challenge and lost, it would bring utter disgrace upon the Northern Camp.

Seeing the crowd’s heated debate, Liang Li’s smile grew wider.

He turned his gaze toward the viewing platform, locking eyes with Cheng Lingyu, and respectfully said, “Your Majesty, now that the review is complete—”

“I propose that warriors from both nations engage in a contest, to strengthen friendship and prove that your army is no empty boast.”

His tone was dripping with sarcasm.

Contest? Friendship?

It was clearly a provocation!

Cheng Lingyu sat upright atop the high platform, her gaze piercing as lightning, cold as winter frost.

A faint, bitter smile curled her lips, but she remained silent.

The ministers exchanged glances, none daring to speak first.

A duel was a matter for the Emperor herself to decide; it was unwise to intervene rashly.

At this moment, Yang Ruyan rose.

Clad in silver armor, her bearing martial and commanding, her long hair tied in a high ponytail, she swept her gaze over Chu Nan, a hint of mocking smile playing on her lips.

“Your Majesty,” Yang Ruyan bowed, then lifted her head and spoke loudly, “Since the Southern envoy has proposed a contest, the Great Wilderness cannot show weakness. However—”

She shifted her tone, fixing her eyes on Chu Nan with a teasing edge, “this display at the Northern Camp is the handiwork of Master Chu himself.”

“Now that the envoy requests a duel, I suggest we let Master Chu step forward to demonstrate the Northern Camp’s true strength. Would that not be more convincing?”

Her words sparked an uproar within the hall.

Yang Ruyan’s move was clearly calculated. Though she admired Chu Nan’s wisdom, she resented that a merchant was directing military affairs.

This was a perfect opportunity—if Chu Nan lost in combat, his reputation would be utterly shattered!

Cheng Lingyu furrowed her brow, a cold gleam flashing in her eyes.

She cast a sharp glance at Yang Ruyan and spoke with calm authority, “General Yang, Master Chu is not a military officer. What business does this have with him?”

“Moreover, such a contest cannot be accepted lightly. If it damages the Great Wilderness’ honor, can you bear responsibility?”

Yang Ruyan was momentarily silenced but quickly straightened, clasping her fists respectfully.

“Your Majesty, this concerns the nation’s honor. If no one accepts the challenge, it will only embolden the Southerners further.”

“I propose—” Before she could finish, a calm voice interrupted from nearby.

“Very well, I accept the challenge.”