He looked at the adviser beside him. The man let out an awkward laugh. "The County Magistrate has to go out, and the county office can't be left unattended. I'll stay behind and keep watch over it for you, sir."
Zhao Wude gave him a cold look and snorted. Then he flung his sleeve and left. Fortunately, he had served as an official in another county for many years and had amassed a modest fortune, along with a retinue of trusted followers. Otherwise, he would have been utterly alone today.
Watching County Magistrate Zhao storm off, the smile slowly faded from the adviser's face. He sneered. "Idiot. I'm a member of the Li Family too."
Then he turned and went back into the county office to write a secret letter. Not long afterward, a goshawk soared toward Green Maple Valley at breakneck speed.
At Baihe Great Camp, Zhao Wude arrived with dozens of trusted followers, all bristling with aggression, only to be stopped outside by the soldiers guarding the gates.
"Stop! This is a military stronghold. Unauthorized persons may not enter. Anyone who dares trespass will be shown no mercy!"
In the next instant, dozens of crossbows were aimed at them.
One of Zhao Wude's trusted men stepped forward and shouted, "Have you gone blind? This is the County Magistrate of Baihe County! If you know what's good for you, stand aside at once!"
The soldiers exchanged glances, then replied coldly, "Without an order from the County Lieutenant, no one is allowed in."
The trusted man was so furious he was about to attack, but Zhao Wude called him back from behind. He said coldly, "Have your County Lieutenant come out and face me!"
This time, the soldiers did not refuse. One gave a look to his companion, who