Niu Youdao sighed. "There are some things I hope the Prince understands. It wasn't that I hadn't considered having you withdraw your troops in exchange for the safety of the County Princess and Young Prince, but that approach won't work. It isn't because I begrudge the gains we've made in battle. Once we do that, we'll ruin the plans of the three great sects. What restraints would they have left then? With nothing holding them back inside or out, they'll surely strike ruthlessly at us. Even if the County Princess and Young Prince return, they won't escape calamity. When that time comes, it won't just be us who suffer—countless brothers under your command will be dragged into a bloody purge as well!"
Shang Chaozong said, "I understand everything Daoist Master has said. Just tell me what to do, Daoist Master. I will obey."
Niu Youdao said, "What I mean is, there is no other way. We can only take them by force from the enemy's hands!"
"Take them?" Meng Shanming was startled. "They're being held hostage in enemy hands, so they'll certainly be guarded tightly. The enemy can take the County Princess and Young Prince's lives at any time. There's simply no way to make a move. How are we supposed to take them?" They couldn't exactly go snatch back two corpses, could they?
Niu Youdao raised a palm toward him. "I know what to do. I'll adapt to the situation and handle it properly. But I must state this in advance: I have no absolute certainty in this matter. I can only do my utmost and give it a try. Prince, you must prepare yourself for the worst!"
Shang Chaozong and Meng Shanming's hearts instantly grew heavy. Shang Chaozong nodded with exceptional difficulty. "Understood. Give your orders, Daoist Master.