The Double

On the stage, the disciples of the Pear Garden were completely oblivious, as if they didn’t see the raging fire, nor the sparks falling from the second floor. They were singing the most exciting scene of the play, where Yu Ji said, "Ah, my lord! How could I, your concubine, ever wish to burden you? If this campaign proves adverse, retreat to Jiangdong and plan anew. I would rather my lord’s treasured sword take my life here and now, so that you will not be troubled by thoughts of me!"

The hero exclaimed in agony, "This... This, my concubine... you mustn’t take such a short view of life."

"Ah! My lord! The Han soldiers have conquered the land, and the sounds of encircling Chu songs are heard. With my lord’s spirits spent, why would your unworthy concubine wish to live on!"

The sounds of encircling Chu songs, the sounds of encircling Chu songs! The way down from the building was almost entirely consumed by fire. The spot where the two of them stood was soon to be engulfed in flames. They fought to the death amid the inferno, while their remaining subordinates were each locked in their own desperate struggles, unable to spare any effort to help. Both were covered in wounds, yet seemingly unconcerned with the pain, shaking as if tireless until the entire Red Building burned to ashes.

At that moment, a figure suddenly rushed in from outside the Red Building. This person was accompanied by a full body of wind and snow, with white hair that could have been dusted by snow, or it could be due to old age. He held a three-foot green blade, the Treasured Sword, and made straight for the second floor. His movements weren’t as nimble as the young soldiers’, but were exceptionally agile. It was as if he didn’t even see the blaze reaching towards the sky, his silhouette resolute and without hesitation.

In the midst of the flames, Jih Heng’s fan slashed across Yin Zhan’s neck, blood gushing forth, while Yin Zhan’s blade also wounded his back, soaking his red garment. Neither would cease their struggle. With a fierce smile, Yin Zhan said, "Good nephew, since you are determined to fight to the death, let’s go to hell together. Let my son enjoy the great lands of Northern Yan!" Just then, Jih Heng’s fan had just pierced his chest. Before he could pull it out, and without caring for his own life, Yin Zhan took the chance to thrust his knife into Jih Heng’s back.

However, he did not succeed.

At that moment, a figure was rushing up to the second floor. He was older now, and even if he appeared vigorous on normal days, he would tire easily, straining himself to run into the sea of fire. Seeing this situation, he only managed to push Jih Heng away, while his Treasured Sword lunged at the enemy.

Yin Zhan’s knife stabbed into his back, while his Treasured Sword pierced through Yin Zhan’s throat.

Yin Zhan fell to the ground with a thud.