Love Lock

Chapter 320 The Most Powerful Pregnant Woman in History
The teachers in the classroom looked at each other in disbelief, their faces filled with shock and incredulity.

Zhao Zun suddenly looked up, his gaze sharp as lightning, fixed on Han Lei behind the podium. Their eyes met briefly in the air, exchanging a silent, unspoken tension that only they understood.

Zhao Zun pressed the call button again, his voice calm and steady: "Continue."

Subsequent reports from the communications soldier came in one after another: the imperial reinforcements were hastily dispatched, and so far only 10,000 newly trained troops trained by Da Jiu have been sent to rush to Dongguan.

Zhao Zun's brows furrowed deeper and deeper, and in the end he only replied with one sentence: "I understand."

The heavy air pressed down instantly, and the school, which had just been filled with the fragrance of books and ink, now seemed to be frozen as if even breathing was rusty.

The modern oath suddenly popped into Han Lei's mind: "Those who offend China, though far away, shall be punished!"

A surge of warmth rushed to her heart, but reason told her that here, in this time and space, all decisions rested on Zhao Zun beside her.

Grand Secretary Zhang stared intently at Zhao Zun, his lips pressed so tightly they turned white, without uttering a single word.

In his mind, Zhao Zun was a traitor and a major threat to the imperial court.

At this moment, his mind was in turmoil. On the one hand, he was worried about the devastation of the war in Dongguan and the devastation of the country. On the other hand, he was even more afraid that Zhao Zun might take advantage of the capital's vulnerability to lead his troops into the capital and seize the imperial power.

All the scholars' eyes were focused on Zhao Zun, holding their breath as they awaited the decision of this powerful prince.

However, Zhao Zun slowly turned to Han Lei, whose belly was swollen high beside him. His usually sharp and cold eyes revealed a rare and clear struggle and difficulty.

He may be a rebel, but Dongguan is part of the Great Jing territory, and the people of Dongguan are also subjects of the Great Jing.

Foreign enemies trampled our borders, captured our marshal, and humiliated our nation. This is a great disgrace. How could they sit idly by?
But now... Han Lei is six months pregnant and her movements are becoming increasingly inconvenient. She is restless and unruly. If he were to lead an army on a distant expedition now, leaving her alone in Cangzhou, how could he feel at ease?

Han Lei met his gaze as he looked at her stomach, as if she could see right through the turmoil in his heart.

She spoke directly, her voice clear and bright: "Brother Zun, what are you planning to do?"

Zhao Zun's voice was low and somber: "Although Da Jiu has brought 10,000 new recruits to reinforce us, only he and five men from the Big Character Squad are equipped with firearms, and ammunition is also scarce. The rest are armed with swords and spears. The Eastern Ming Empire is surrounded by powerful enemies, and Da Jiu's journey will be fraught with danger. My intention is to personally lead the troops to Dongguan to provide support. But you now..."

Upon hearing Zhao Zun's determination to go to war, Han Lei's eyes instantly lit up with a dazzling light. This was exactly what she wanted! She could go to the battlefield again!
Without hesitation, she pulled out an M16 with a unique design and a cold, hard metallic sheen from her wide sleeve. Her movements were so smooth and fierce that she didn't look like a pregnant woman at all.

With her large pregnant belly protruding, she walked a few steps to Zhao Zun, nimbly placing one foot on the stool beside her. She steadily raised the heavy rifle, butt against her shoulder, her gaze burning like fire, and shouted:
"Let's go, let's go take him down right now!"

The air in the classroom seemed to freeze instantly.

Han Lei's crisp shout, combined with her imposing posture of being heavily pregnant, with one foot on a stool and both hands holding a gun, created an extremely strong visual impact.

Sunlight streamed through the window, outlining her sharp silhouette. The uniquely shaped sniper rifle gleamed with a cold, hard metallic sheen, creating a strange yet breathtaking harmony with her prominent pregnant belly.

The scholars were dumbfounded; their eyes nearly popped out of their sockets.

They had already witnessed the princess's extraordinary nature, but each time she managed to push the boundaries of their understanding.

Grand Secretary Zhang's white beard trembled, his lips moved as if he wanted to rebuke him with "What kind of behavior is this?", but he found the words stuck in his throat, unable to utter a single syllable.

The scene before him was indeed astonishing, but the overwhelming spirit and determination that swept over him stirred a strange and indescribable tremor in his heart.

Zhao Zun was startled, looking at his woman as if she were an alien.

Is she pregnant?

Doesn't she know she's pregnant?
Whose pregnant woman looks like her?
Zhao Zun's lips twitched almost imperceptibly, and the slight difficulty in his eyes was instantly washed away by a surge of heat, replaced by a complex light interwoven with helplessness, pride, and burning fighting spirit.

He knew Han Lei too well; once she made up her mind, nothing could sway her, especially when it came to matters of great importance.

Zhao Zun strode forward and firmly placed his large hand on her lower back, offering both support and silent recognition and care.

"Nonsense!" His voice was deep and carried an undeniable authority, but the indulgence in his tone was clearly audible. "Sit properly and take care of yourself."

Han Lei sat down with his help, but still held her chin up, the gun barrel pointing slightly downwards, her eyes shining with an astonishing light.

"Who's being ridiculous? The Dongming traitors have already reached our doorstep, captured our marshal, and trampled on our land. How can we tolerate this? Brother Zun, stop dawdling and quickly muster the troops!"

Grand Secretary Zhang's eyebrows twitched. Did Zhao Zun and Han Lei mean that they were going to attack Dongming instead of directly attacking the capital?
Zhao Zun confiscated the M16 from her hand and handed it to Lao Meng behind him. Then he glanced at her helplessly and said, "There are also soldiers from Dongming and Cangzhou on the battlefield. It's not your turn yet. Just provide us with ammunition and get some rest."

Han Lei sighed and muttered, "I can help you."

Zhao Zun squatted down, his gaze level with hers, staring at her as if he wanted to remember her delicate and sweet face forever.

His warm hand gently stroked Han Lei's cheek, his voice low and gentle: "As long as you are safe and sound, that is the greatest help you can give me. When I go to deal with Dongming this time, the thing I'm most worried about is you."

Seeing the young couple's reluctance to part, Grand Secretary Zhang couldn't help but nod slightly.

This is what his students should be like—when faced with the greater love for their country and its people, the personal love between husband and wife is ultimately put aside.

Zhao Zun smiled gently at Han Lei, stood up, took a deep breath, and made a decision instantly without hesitation.

He pressed the walkie-talkie, his voice steady as a mountain, penetrating the solemn atmosphere of the classroom and reaching the distant military camp.

"Zhengfei, Zhengfei. Hearing the reply."

Xiao Zhengfei quickly answered the walkie-talkie: "Your Highness, this is Zhengfei. What are your orders?"

"Order! Assemble the entire Cangzhou camp to Level 1 combat readiness! The garrison troops shall immediately inspect their equipment and ammunition, and the logistics team shall prepare seven days' worth of emergency rations and medical supplies. In one incense stick's time, conduct a troop review at the drill ground!"

"Yes, Your Highness!" came a strong and resounding response from the other end of the walkie-talkie, followed by the sound of footsteps quickly fading away and the faint sound of a loud horn.

The moment the order was given, the atmosphere in the classroom changed abruptly. The previous shock and solemnity transformed into a tense yet orderly pre-battle atmosphere.

The scholars exchanged glances, unable to offer any concrete help, but they all bowed and said, "Your Highness, take care! We wish the army a resounding victory!"

Grand Secretary Zhang looked at Zhao Zun with a complicated expression, and finally stepped forward and bowed deeply: "Your Highness... I... still regard you as a traitor to the court, but today's actions are for the greater good of the nation. The people of Dongguan, and even the entire Jing Dynasty, depend on Your Highness. I hope Your Highness... will use thunderous force to repel the powerful enemy and uphold the prestige of our nation!"

He spoke these words with great difficulty, yet with utmost solemnity.

Zhao Zun glanced at him, but didn't say anything, only nodded slightly: "Don't worry, Master, Zun can tell what's important."

He then looked at Han Lei, his brows furrowing again: "You..."

"I have to go!" Han Lei interrupted resolutely. "You know my abilities: long-range sniping, battlefield first aid, tactical command—in which area am I inferior to others? Besides..."

She touched her belly, a tender maternal light flashing across her face, which was quickly replaced by determination. "Our child should see first and foremost how his parents protect this land. Don't worry, I know what I'm doing and I won't be reckless."

Zhao Zun knew she was telling the truth; her abilities had already been proven in the previous two battles, making her an irreplaceable and powerful asset.

“No way!” Zhao Zun refused decisively. “Dongguan is a long way from here, and you won’t be able to handle the bumpy ride.”

"Brother Zun! Just let me go!" Han Lei started clinging to his arm again in a coquettish voice, her large belly pressing against his hips.

Zhao Zun glanced at her sideways, gently brushed her hand away, and said in an extremely gentle tone, "Girl, be good! Stay at home. I'll be distracted if you go. Besides, you haven't been eating or sleeping well on the way here..."

Before Zhao Zun could finish speaking, Han Lei interrupted her, her hand, which had just been brushed aside, spun around and grabbed Zhao Zun's arm, shaking it violently.

"Brother Zun! I can do it." Han Lei pouted, looking quite aggrieved. "I know my own body. Besides, if I'm worried about you not being able to sleep, I'll definitely sneak over to find you."

This time, when her attempts to charm her failed, she resorted to threats.

I'll definitely sneak off to find you!
This statement did indeed frighten Zhao Zun, because she had a criminal record.

Zhao Zun sighed, remained silent for a moment, and finally gave in. Who told him he always lost to Han Lei because he couldn't bear to be with her!
What Zhao Zun didn't know was that pregnant women traveling was nothing compared to the fact that in Han Lei's timeline, there were pregnant women dancing in nightclubs right before giving birth!
Zhao Zun's face darkened, and he said in an unquestionable tone, "Fine, go with me! But you must stay in Jizhou and just provide us with supplies. You must not go to the front lines. I will set up communication stations along the way starting from Jizhou, so we can keep in touch at any time. You must follow my orders in all actions. Otherwise, I'll carry you back to the palace right now and lock you up."

"Okay! Deal! Hehe!" Han Lei smiled sweetly and readily agreed, knowing this was Zhao Zun's biggest concession. Time was of the essence, and there was no room for further discussion.

Zhao Zun immediately addressed the group in the classroom: "The affairs of the academy will be temporarily managed by Grand Secretary Zhang and the other teachers. Girl, let's go."

He put his arm around Han Lei's waist, carefully protecting her, and strode out.

Outside the classroom, several guards who had heard the commotion were already waiting with their horses. Ma Zi also appeared silently, like a ghost, following behind Zhao Zun.

The military camps had already begun to mobilize.

The guards quickly assembled upon receiving Zhao Zun's orders. Their armor clanged, swords and spears stood ready, and the M16s gleamed coldly, exuding a chilling aura.

"Reporting to Your Highness! The garrison has assembled and is ready to depart!" A messenger galloped up, dismounted, and reported loudly.

"Alright!" Zhao Zun mounted his horse. "Let's go! To the training ground."

The sound of horses' hooves clattered as the group galloped away.

The news that Zhao Zun was going to lead troops to support Dongguan spread like wildfire. On both sides of the street, the people seemed to have long been used to the efficient mobilization of the King of Cangzhou, and they all made way for him.

Many people wore expressions of worry and hope, and some even shouted, "Your Highness, you must win!"

"Drive those treacherous Dongming dogs back!"

"Your Highness, we await your triumphant return."

……

On the drill ground, banners fluttered, and the dark army stood silently, with only the occasional snort of warhorses breaking the silence.

The soldiers stood ramrod straight with sharp eyes, an invisible killing intent soaring into the sky.

Upon seeing Zhao Zun arrive, all the soldiers' eyes turned to him, filled with fervent admiration and trust.

Zhao Zun reined in his horse, his gaze sweeping across the entire field. He channeled his inner strength, and his voice, like a booming bell, echoed throughout every corner of the training ground: "Soldiers! The Eastern Ming Empire has invaded our territory, captured our marshal, and humiliated our nation! Tell me, what should we do?"

"Fight! Fight! Fight!" A roar like a mountain collapsing and a tsunami erupted instantly, shaking the surrounding area and even scattering the clouds in the sky.

"Good!" Zhao Zun drew his sword and pointed it eastward. "Those who offend my country will be punished! The entire Cangzhou army will be under Commander Xiao's command. Five hundred soldiers will follow me to reinforce Dongguan, display our military might, and reclaim our land!"

"Roar! Roar! Roar!" The soldiers slammed their guns on the ground and struck their shields with their swords, letting out rhythmic roars, their fighting spirit boiling at its peak.

Looking at the disciplined, well-equipped, and highly motivated army before him, Zhao Zun felt a surge of pride. This was the force he and Han Lei had built together—a force to protect their homeland and crush any invading enemy!

Zhao Zun's sword flashed: "The garrison troops, march!"

Bugles sounded and war drums beat. Five hundred soldiers mounted their horses, raising clouds of dust.

Don't underestimate these 500 soldiers; they are elite troops trained with pistols and M16s since their formation. Even though the Dongming Empire's metallurgical technology far surpasses that of the Dajing Empire, with them on the front lines, dealing with the Dongming Empire, which still uses cold weapons, would be a piece of cake for them, even if they were to fight against a thousand.

Zhao Zun led 500 ambushers on horseback ahead, leaving 100 personal guards led by Lao Meng to escort Han Lei to the scene later.

Zitan and Jinju accompanied Han Lei back to the palace and also got busy.

In the Prince's mansion, the shadows of the trees were dappled.

The old lady was sitting under the shade of a tree with several maids, sewing new clothes for her unborn grandson.

Han Lei walked over and stood in front of the old lady, her fingers unconsciously twisting the hem of her clothes.

She hadn't wanted to tell the old lady the truth, fearing it would worry her, but after much thought, she decided to be honest. Otherwise, if the old lady found out the truth through other channels, she would be even more worried.

“Mother,” Han Lei said softly, her voice sounding particularly gentle in the sunlight, “The battle at Dongguan is critical, and Brother Zun has led his troops to reinforce it. I plan to go with Brother Zun.”

She paused, noticing the old lady's smile gradually freezing, and quickly added, "But I assure you, I will only be responsible for the allocation of supplies in the rear, and will never go to the front lines to risk my life."

The old lady had just picked up her teacup when it wobbled slightly, and a few drops of tea splashed onto her skirt, leaving dark stains.

She placed the teacup on the small table beside her with a soft thud. The surroundings immediately fell silent, broken only by the rustling of the wind through the bamboo leaves.

"Zhao Zun has already set off?" The old lady was quite surprised.

"Okay!" Han Lei nodded slightly. "The situation is urgent. Brother Zun went directly to the drill ground to muster the troops and set off. I'll make the arrangements and follow him."

"It's only been a few days since things calmed down..." the old lady murmured to herself, her voice filled with undisguised disappointment.

She raised her eyes, her gaze passing over Han Lei, as if looking into a very distant place.

“Since your father, the old Duke, our family has never left the battlefield. But Zun’er has only been by my side for a short time, and you are pregnant…”

The old lady didn't finish her sentence; she just sighed softly, a sigh that carried too much concern and helplessness as a military officer's family member.

Han Lei sat down beside the old lady and gently held her slightly cool hand.

“Mother, I understand your worries. But it is precisely because I am pregnant that I want to stay by Zun’er’s side even more. Besides, I was able to bring him back safely last time, so I will definitely take good care of myself this time as well.”

The old lady gripped Han Lei's hand tightly, as if afraid that she would lose something if she let go.

Her gaze fell on Han Lei's large belly, her eyes filled with complex emotions.

“You child… I know you are very capable. If it weren’t for you last time, Zun’er would probably…” She paused, her voice choked with emotion, “But swords and spears have no eyes on the battlefield. You are now pregnant, so you must not be reckless!”

“Yes! I promise you,” Han Lei nodded solemnly, “I will definitely put the child first.”

The old lady was slightly relieved, but she still kept nagging about many things to pay attention to, from diet and daily life to movement and sitting.

Han Lei agreed to each request without the slightest impatience.

After explaining the arrangements for accompanying the military, Han Lei took out two mobile phones from her sleeve; the screens gleamed warmly in the sunlight.

"Mother, the school's teaching videos have been downloaded onto these two phones. You can give them to Ling'er when she returns. She has already learned how to use the phones, so she can teach the teachers to watch the videos at school."

The old lady took the phone and carefully stroked the smooth screen. Although she didn't quite understand the ingenious use of these novelties, she still nodded solemnly.

At that moment, a flurry of activity could be heard coming from the courtyard. Zitan and Qingju were directing the servants to load luggage onto the carriage.

The maids moved about quietly, afraid of disturbing their masters' conversation.

"You don't need to bring too much, just pack some of your personal items and cushions," Han Lei reminded them. She had her own space and didn't need so much stuff.

Han Lei glanced at the scene in the courtyard, then took out an air mattress and an air mattress chair from her spatial storage.

These two items are no different from modern ones, and they stand out in this antique setting, yet they are strangely harmonious.

"Put this in the carriage," Han Lei instructed softly. "The journey will be bumpy, and these will make it more comfortable."

Jinju looked at these unfamiliar objects with curiosity, but still accepted them respectfully.

The air mattress and chair swayed slightly in her hands, their texture peculiar, both soft and elastic.

The old lady watched all this with a mixture of worry and relief in her eyes. She knew that this daughter-in-law was extraordinary, possessing abilities and wisdom that were unimaginable to ordinary people.

But her son and daughter-in-law were facing a formidable enemy in Dongming, and no matter how extraordinary her daughter-in-law was, she couldn't help but worry.

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