Two years had passed since Ri Yami was sent as a strategic observer to the first of several real skirmishes.
During that time, he participated in eight small-scale battles scattered along the border between Qin and its neighboring enemies.Not with direct command, but as the brain behind the scenes—analyzing, recommending, learning.His talent began to catch the attention of several mid- and high-ranking officers.
But Ri Yami knew that war was not won by the art of battle alone.
If he wanted to survive, he had to understand war in the shadows as well.In politics, in money, in influence.
So, secretly from his superiors and comrades, he built a small clandestine refuge on the outskirts of the Military Academy.
The Wolf's RefugeAn old warehouse, located on a backstreet seemingly forgotten by the world, was transformed by him and a handful of allies into a discreet brothel.
There were bets, cheap but potent alcohol, imported black tobacco, and girls trained to listen more than to talk.
It wasn't a place for nobles or generals, but a meeting point for soldiers, merchants, and spies.
From there came whispers worth more than swords.Information on troop movements, rumors of betrayals, secrets of politicians.
Money, Power, and FavorsThe money that came in was invested in small bribes, quick weapon repairs, medicine for anonymous wounded, and the purchase of favors.
When a soldier had a problem, or an officer needed an "unofficial" contact, the refuge was the place to go.
Ri Yami was the shadow moving the pieces behind the curtain.
His allies in the academy still didn't know who the mysterious "Wolf of Zui" was, the one who seemed to know more than anyone.
A Dangerous GameBut the risk grew every day.The eyes of the academy—and especially those of instructor Han Bu—began to suspect.
Han Bu had said:
—"Generals don't just win with swords and tactics. Also with poison and secrets. But poison can turn against you."
Ri Yami knew the war was only the first step.
—The real battlefield is the kingdom.