This force could barely even form an effective encirclement, let alone besiege a city! And if the entire Soul Master corps was transferred here, what would happen to the main assault on the east gate?
Tang Lan offered no explanation. He merely pressed a finger firmly against a pre-marked point on the map of the west gate, his tone brooking no argument.
"Your mission is not to storm the city by force. At dawn, when fighting begins at the east, south, and north gates, gather at this location and await my command.
When the time comes, an opportunity to breach the city will naturally arise. The entire Soul Master corps will be under your command. You must protect them well and follow the instructions of the Tang Sect experts accompanying the army. Understood?"
Chen Jue opened his mouth. Looking into Tang Lan's deep, calm eyes, then recalling the imperial sword bestowed upon him, he ultimately forced down all the questions and dissatisfaction in his heart. Gritting his teeth, he clasped his fists.
"This general... obeys!"
At the darkest hour of the night, Chen Jue led his eighteen thousand soldiers, along with a full two thousand Imperial Soul Masters. Their expressions varied, though most wore the same look of confusion, as they silently moved into a dense forest outside Dongyang City's west gate.
Using the terrain and darkness, they concealed themselves perfectly. From there, they could clearly see the towering outline of the west gate in the distance, as well as the swaying torches and patrolling soldiers atop the walls.
Waiting was torment. The air was thick with the unique oppression that came before a great battle, mingled with the scent of grass, wood, and earth. The soldiers held their breath, while the Soul Masters quietly adjusted their Soul Power. Chen