Though Gongxi Chou had already received the news beforehand, he still couldn't help changing expression when he actually heard the order to withdraw.
He had just returned with his troops and hadn't even had a sip of water before storming off in a fury to his adoptive father's quarters. Before he even reached the door, he heard the strains of zithers and flutes. He pushed it open, and hot air laden with the scents of wine and rouge rushed over him. He called out loudly, "Adoptive Father—"
The old general set down his wine cup.
He said without surprise, "A Nian, you're here. Sit."
He raised his eyes, only to see that Gongxi Chou was still dressed in full armor.
His gaze fell on the weapons at Gongxi Chou's waist, and his brows knitted slightly.
His expression suddenly grew a little displeased.
"A Nian, what sort of appearance is this?"
Gongxi Chou casually unfastened his weapons and tossed them to the young soldier standing by the door. Then he strode forward, anxiety in his voice. "Adoptive Father, the Alliance Army is nothing but a rabble. With the combined strength of our generals, sweeping them away would be as easy as reaching into a bag to take something out. Why are we withdrawing?"
The old general had wondered what Gongxi Chou was going to say.
This was not surprising. It was exactly the sort of thing Gongxi Chou would say.
But being prepared for it and actually hearing it were two entirely different feelings. The old general set down his wine cup with an irritated clank, his face dark. "A Nian, you're getting more and more out of line! We only need to obey our orders. As for everything else, don't ask."
The advisor sitting at the lower right didn't even