May 11th, heavy rain.
Demon Emperor Second Crown Prince Zhui Ri's army had reached the edge of Blood River Fortress's entire defense zone. It was expected to launch its attack in three to five days.
At this moment, the Commander Hall within Blood River Fortress was still carrying out its final deployments and reinforcements.
Although the battle plans and various contingency measures had all been completed ten days ago.
As Demon Emperor Second Crown Prince Zhui Ri's forces drew near, the Heavenly Patrol Generals and Heavenly Patrol Divine Hunters under Ye Zhen's command had been dispatched intensively. They had gained a clearer understanding of Demon Emperor Second Crown Prince Zhui Ri's troop deployments, and some plans had accordingly been adjusted.
"Report!"
A shrill, piercing cry of urgent news rang out from beyond the door. A Heavenly Patrol Divine Hunter who had just traversed through the void charged in, disregarding the weakness brought on by the prolonged use of a secret technique.
Ye Zhen, in the Commander Hall, hurriedly rose. "Have Demon Emperor Second Crown Prince Zhui Ri's forces moved?"
"Reporting to the Marshal, no." The Heavenly Patrol Divine Hunter answered firmly. "Marshal, an unidentified Spirit Boat force has been discovered eight thousand li behind Blood River Fortress. There are thirty-five Spirit Boats in total. Apart from one Marshal-class Spirit Boat, all the others are General-class Spirit Boats.
"The force is estimated to number around one hundred thousand. They are flying Great Zhou banners, but their purpose and origin are unknown. I ask the Marshal to decide how to handle them!" the Heavenly Patrol Divine Hunter said.
"A Great Zhou force? Did you question them about their origins?" Ye Zhen asked again.
"Reporting to the Marshal, we sent five inquiry jade slips in succession, but the opposing force gave no response!"