Chapter 78: An Assassination Attempt

The world knows that a thousand-li horse is hard to find, yet few realize that a donkey that can travel a hundred li is rarer still. Steeds that race a thousand li in a day are not uncommon, but a donkey capable of a hundred li is truly exceptional.

From what Liu Yitiao knew, the only famed hundred-li donkey in history belonged to Zhang Guo during the reign of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang. This creature was clever, could recognize roads, and journeyed a thousand li a day, its abilities bordering on the magical. It was said this legendary donkey, too, was covered in white hair.

Liu Yitiao swung himself sideways onto the little donkey's back and sat there steadily. The donkey bore his weight without the slightest sign of strain, its four hooves sure and calm as it ambled forward. Gently stroking the donkey’s head, Liu Yitiao asked, “Brother Helan, have you ever heard of a hundred-li donkey?”

Seeing Gongsun Helan’s frown, Liu Yitiao could tell he knew nothing of the sort. So he explained, “A hundred-li donkey, as the name implies, is a donkey that can cover over a hundred li in a single day. Though not as swift as a thousand-li horse, it is by no means slower than an average steed. Donkeys of this caliber are intelligent, enduring, can recognize their master and remember their way. Truly, they are rare treasures among mounts.”

“It’s just that this donkey hasn’t been properly cared for. It’s too thin and frail now, unable to show the spirit of a true hundred-li donkey. Once I’ve nourished and trained it for a while, strengthening its muscles and bones, it will surely become a remarkable steed!” Liu Yitiao hopped down from the donkey, continuing to gently pat its malnourished frame. The little donkey seemed to sense the kindness in his touch and affectionately nudged its head against his hand, making Liu Yitiao burst out laughing.

It’s just a shabby donkey, yet Liu Yitiao talks as if it’s something extraordinary. Gongsun Helan curled his lip in disdain. Fanning himself, he inspected the donkey’s small hooves and said, “Elder brother, I believe you when you say this donkey is a good runner. But to claim it outruns the horses of our Gongsun household—I cannot agree. No matter how fast a donkey may run, it’s still a donkey. How can it compare to a horse?”

Liu Yitiao frowned at the awkwardness of this remark and shot Gongsun Helan a sidelong glance. Clearly, the earlier beatings hadn’t been enough—perhaps next time he should add a little extra.

Leading the donkey slowly toward the most secluded corner of the cattle market, Liu Yitiao said, “Whether it can or not isn’t up to our words. If you’re interested, we can find time for a little contest. I’ll ride the donkey, you the horse, and then we’ll see whose mount is superior.”

“That’s exactly what I was thinking!” Gongsun Helan raised his fan, wanting to strike it with satisfaction, but recalled the sharp pain he'd felt earlier and decided against it. He proposed, “Why not set it ten days from now? By then, your donkey should have recovered somewhat.”

“Agreed,” Liu Yitiao replied. Glancing around to ensure they were alone—behind them was a dead end—he leisurely tied the donkey to a stake nearby, then said with a smile, “But before that, perhaps we should deal with the tail that’s been following us. Having someone shadow us all the way is rather vexing.”

“Indeed, I’ve had the same feeling. It’s as if a toad has its eyes fixed on me—just the thought is enough to make one sick.” Gongsun Helan tucked his fan into his robe, flexed his wrist, and aligned himself beside Liu Yitiao. Grinning, he added, “I just wonder if this toad is after you or after me.”

“I’m just an ordinary man, hardly worth anyone’s concern. If you ask me, it’s almost certainly you, the esteemed Young Master of the Gongsun clan, that he’s after. Fame draws attention, and your father’s reputation is formidable. As for me, I merely found myself on your ship by accident.” Liu Yitiao addressed the empty air before them: “Isn’t that right, mysterious friend?”

No one replied. The space before them remained empty, but Liu Yitiao knew the person hadn’t left and must be within ten paces of them.

“Since we’ve discovered you, we naturally know where you are. So, young man, you’d best come out and face us. Let’s speak openly and clear matters up—it will do no harm to either side,” Liu Yitiao declared, standing confidently with his hands behind his back, engaging in a silent battle of wills with their hidden observer.

“Perhaps you’re an assassin, following us to strike at me or my companion here. Or perhaps you’re a spy, tailing us to report our movements to someone else. Or maybe you’re a secret admirer, eager to catch a glimpse of our illustrious Young Master Gongsun.” Liu Yitiao spoke softly, as though chatting with the girl next door. “Whatever your purpose, now that you’ve been discovered, there’s no need to hide any longer. Come out.”

Perhaps Liu Yitiao’s words seemed a bit playful—Gongsun Helan grinned from ear to ear. But the effect was immediate, for after Liu Yitiao had finished, their hidden stalker finally responded.

A throwing dart—a strip of red silk and two inches of steel—an ancient and deadly weapon.

Two darts shot forth, aiming straight for the brows of Liu Yitiao and Gongsun Helan, cold and lethal. Yet the thrower’s skill seemed lacking—at least, so it seemed to Liu Yitiao, for he could clearly see the arc of the darts as they flew through the air.

So, when the darts reached his face, Liu Yitiao deftly extended two fingers and caught one in midair. Gongsun Helan dodged aside, and neither was harmed.

Weighing the dart in his hand, Liu Yitiao noticed marks of scorching on the shaft—it bore not the dull gray of ordinary iron, but a strange, iridescent sheen.

Poisoned? Liu Yitiao’s expression changed slightly. He quickly gave Gongsun Helan a warning glance, urging caution. In the era of cold steel, nothing was more dreaded than poison. Once it entered the bloodstream, there was no effective cure.

Gongsun Helan understood, quietly shifting his stance to edge closer to Liu Yitiao. Their assailant had attacked with poisoned darts, clearly intent on killing them. They had no choice but to be on their guard.

“Brother, I’m starting to believe what you said earlier. This fellow is no doubt here for me,” Gongsun Helan whispered, keeping a wary eye on his surroundings. “I bet it’s my hot-tempered uncle stirring up trouble again, and now someone’s come looking for payback. This time, though, it seems more intense—I’m afraid you’ll be dragged into this as well.”

Again? So this wasn’t the first time.

Liu Yitiao shook his head helplessly. Anyone bold enough to attempt an assassination on the family of the Left Gate Marshal must be formidable—no doubt a major figure of some sort. What bad luck, to be dragged into such intrigue as a mere commoner—and on the most unfortunate side, as the target of assassination.