The candles burned brightly inside the main tent. A map of Jialing Pass lay spread across the strategy table, its dense markings and red-and-black arrows clearly outlining the state of the battle. Yu Xiaogang held a wooden staff and struck the spot marked "Limali Plain" heavily, his brows drawn into a deep frown. His voice was as cold as ice. "The Spirit Hall Empire's move was vicious. They secretly poisoned the water source at Limali Plain, causing more than three thousand of our soldiers to suddenly fall ill. They vomited, suffered diarrhea, and lacked the strength even to hold their weapons. We must guard against such despicable tactics in the future, especially the protection of our provisions and water sources. There cannot be the slightest mistake again!"
The moment he finished speaking, Marshal Ge Long abruptly rose from his seat, his armor clanging sharply. His face was flushed, and guilt filled his weathered features. He strode into the center of the tent and dropped to his knees with a thud. The crash of armor against the ground instantly silenced the tent. "His Majesty, this minister deserves death!" Marshal Ge Long lowered his head in a bow, his voice thick with undisguised self-reproach. "Since taking charge of guarding the provisions and water sources, I focused only on preventing open attacks and overlooked the possibility of secret poisoning. My carelessness gave the Spirit Hall Empire an opening and nearly shook the army's morale. I beg His Majesty to punish me!"
His Majesty Xue Beng sat in the main seat, lightly tapping the armrest with his fingers. His gaze swept over everyone in the tent before finally settling on Marshal Ge Long. After a moment of silence, his tone softened. "Marshal Ge Long, rise. Fortunately, Senior Yang Wudi developed an antidote overnight, and