Having obtained the long-coveted position of General Yangwu, Meng Zhao did not appear especially delighted. His expression bore only the faintest trace of joy; more than that, it held the composure and calm of someone about to shoulder a heavy responsibility.
After exchanging a few more words with Beitang Ang and the others, wielding his usual skill with words, he took his leave. He intended to head for the main camp, take command of the entire Yangwu Army, and begin preparations for troop training.
Naturally, Beitang Ang had no objections. Yet he was shrewd enough to fear that Meng Zhao might cross the river and tear down the bridge, casting aside the Prince's Mansion after getting what he wanted and monopolizing the spoils. Thus, he had Beitang He accompany him. Nominally, it was to help take over the camp; in truth, it was to keep an eye on him and discuss the division of military authority.
Meng Zhao readily agreed, as that had been his intention as well. The group mounted their horses and swiftly departed, leaving behind only flurries of snow dancing and drifting through the icy wind.
As for the official appointment document for General Yangwu, along with the military tally for mobilizing the army, the matching seal, armor, saber, and the like, Beitang Ang would have to return to the County King's Mansion to prepare them.
Once Meng Zhao's group vanished from sight, Beitang Ang let out a long breath and relaxed his brows. He said, "All right. Have someone deal with General Zhu Xie's body first. Also, piece together the bodies of the other riders. I cannot allow the warriors of our Great Yong to die out here in the wilderness without even leaving behind whole corpses."
The people below twitched at the corners of their