Catching a Turtle in a Jar

At the same time, inside the central command tent of Xi Qi, the atmosphere was somewhat stifling.

Xi Qi's great general Nangong Shi strode into the tent, the reek of blood still clinging to his armor.

His brows were locked tight as he cupped his fist toward Shen Gongbao, who sat upright in the seat of honor, and said, "State Preceptor, Chong City has held out against our attacks for so long, and the soldiers have suffered grievous casualties. Corpses are piled beneath the walls, almost enough to fill the moat level. Should we have the vanguard withdraw for now, rest briefly, and rally the drums before attacking the city again?"

Shen Gongbao picked up the teacup on the table, gently skimmed away the foam, and did not even lift his head.

His heart was clear; he understood what Yu De in the city was plotting, and he also knew that the corpses strewn everywhere were nothing more than a bitter-flesh ruse put on for outsiders to see.

"We cannot withdraw." Shen Gongbao set down the teacup, his tone brooking no doubt. "In war, speed is priceless. Chong City is already a spent arrow at the end of its flight. Pass down the order: continue the fierce assault. Anyone who disobeys will be executed!"

Nangong Shi gritted his teeth, his eyes full of unbearable pity, but military orders were like mountains. All he could do was cup his fist in frustration.

"This general accepts the order!"

Just then, a scout rushed into the main tent in haste and dropped to one knee.

"Report! State Preceptor, a cavalry force has suddenly appeared from the south and is galloping straight toward Chong City!"

Shen Gongbao's eyes narrowed, and he sat up slightly.

"What banners are they flying? How many men and horses?"