From the southern side of Coldwind City, the Azure Phoenix Army advanced closer and closer like a dark tide across the plains tens of thousands marching in iron formation, banners snapping in the cold wind.
The War drums beat steadily in the distance.
Meanwhile, inside the central command tent a jade incense burned softly, its smoke coiling lazily in the lamplight.
Emperor Shu Ji Shi sat at a low table, sipping tea with a composed expression while across from him stood General Cao, stiff and silent in his armor, while beside him lingered a figure wrapped entirely in black, hidden beneath a dark cloak.
Only the glint of sharp eyes could be seen beneath the hood.
The cloaked man bowed deeply.
"Long live Your Majesty," he said, voice smooth and quiet. "With this strategy, we can divide and conquer the Fang family from within. We don't have to unnecessarily lose our soldiers in this attack."
