Chapter 14

Qi Ruhai remained silent for a long while, the creases between his brows deepening.

"If I refuse to cooperate, does the Commander intend to render me completely powerless?" His voice was low when he finally spoke.

Ye Wudao's lips curved slightly. "General Qi's presence in the rear guard has indeed been... inconvenient. Why not attempt a collaboration first?"

"Collaboration?" Qi Ruhai narrowed his eyes.

"The encirclement operation." Ye Wudao pointed to the sand table. "The left flank remains the primary battlefield."

His finger traced the mountain range on the sand table. "General Qi will feign a falling-out with me. Take your most trusted men and flank from the right, circling through the Kingdom of Xihuang to strike the demonic cultivators from behind."

"What about the right flank's defenses during the two-day march?" Qi Ruhai frowned.

"The central army will assume control." Ye Wudao's tone left no room for doubt. "Focus solely on the pincer maneuver."

After a moment of contemplation, Qi Ruhai said, "I require written orders from the Commander."

Ye Wudao nodded. "Naturally."

His gaze sharpened abruptly. "This time, the elite forces of both the vanguard and central army will be deployed. We will annihilate every last demonic cultivator on the left flank—even if it means crossing into Xihuang territory!"

Ye Wudao knew all too well that the imperial court cared little for a minor kingdom like Xihuang. The hesitation to pursue beyond borders stemmed solely from the two princesses obstructing each other.

"I'll arrange for two severely injured Demon Kings to fall into your hands," Ye Wudao lowered his voice. "The rest of the merits... will depend on General Qi's own efforts."

A flicker of doubt crossed Qi Ruhai's eyes before he finally nodded. "Agreed."

"One more thing." Ye Wudao leaned in suddenly. "Spread word that our forces will launch a full-scale assault on the right flank."

Qi Ruhai's heart clenched. He understood—Ye Wudao had long been aware of his ties to the demonic cultivators. With a bitter smile, he said, "I truly have no knowledge of their defensive arrangements. Before the left flank engages, the Commander must specify the ambush locations."

"Your cooperation is appreciated." Ye Wudao clasped his fists solemnly.

Qi Ruhai studied him intently. "If the Commander keeps his word, this general is willing to serve the Sixth Princess."

Once Qi Ruhai departed, Ye Wudao immediately issued orders to the vanguard and central army. This time, he sought not minor skirmishes, but the complete eradication of the demonic cultivators on the left flank.

Outside the tent, dusk deepened. Ye Wudao gazed at the distant mountain silhouettes, his eyes glinting with cold light.