The large-scale battle in the outer city had basically ended around noon.
The aristocratic families' allied army advanced swiftly, so swiftly that Tiger Lian Mountain's bandits barely had a chance to catch their breath.
One street after another was occupied.
One house after another was brought under control.
Tiger Lian Mountain's flags were torn down and thrown to the ground one after another.
By afternoon, the outer city's main areas had completely fallen into the hands of the aristocratic families' allied army.
The city gates were under allied control.
Barricades and firing positions had been set up at every major intersection.
The allied soldiers moved in groups of five, searching house by house along the alleys. Any bandits hiding inside were dragged out and executed on the spot.
The entire outer city had become a fishing net.
Tiger Lian Mountain's people either remained trapped in scattered areas, continuing their stubborn resistance.
Or they could only retreat toward the inner city.
The inner city walls were taller and thicker than those of the outer city, and its gates were sturdier as well. After retreating into the inner city, the bandits quickly shut the gates, but they did not dare remain atop the walls.
Because the aristocratic families' allied army didn't give a damn about honor.
They actually had cannons!
And quite a few of them!
Staying on the walls would be nothing but serving as live targets.
Outside the city.
Tao Yuanshan sat astride a black horse.
He looked toward the inner city, his gaze cold.
He did not rush to order an attack on the inner city. Instead, he turned and bowed toward those behind him.
A tall, slender man stepped forward.
He wore a grayish-white hemp robe, his hands tucked into his sleeves. With his eyes lowered, he looked