Chen Ye spurred his horse to within ten paces of the formation and abruptly hauled on the reins. The warhorse let out a shrill neigh, its forehooves rearing as it kicked up a spray of snowy mud.
He steadied himself and shouted, "I am Chen Ye, reporting back!"
Hearing the commotion from nearby, Cui Changfeng was slightly taken aback.
When he saw Chen Ye, an unmistakable flicker of astonishment appeared in his eyes.
When he had left Chen Ye behind to cover the retreat, he had already regarded that man, along with those Servant Soldiers, as expendable pawns.
His intention had merely been to buy the main force some more time. He had never imagined that this man would actually make it back alive.
Chen Ye urged his horse forward.
The Black Guards recognized him and did not stop him, silently opening a passage.
Chen Ye rode up before Cui Changfeng, clasped his fists in salute, and said in an even tone, "Your subordinate led three hundred Servant Soldiers and crossed the Qingcang River at a shallow stretch upstream, as my lord ordered. We gathered scattered soldiers along the way. There are now ninety-eight Servant Soldiers from our own unit, along with thirty to fifty scattered soldiers from other noble clans, for a total of more than one hundred and thirty people. I await your orders, my lord."
Hmm?
Cui Changfeng's brows lifted slightly.
Not only had Chen Ye returned alive, he had even brought back nearly a hundred men.
A hint of delight involuntarily appeared on his face.
"Good. Follow the main force for now. We'll discuss the rest after we make camp and rest."
"Yes."
Chen Ye acknowledged the order and withdrew.
As he turned, the corner of his eye swept over Cui Rong and Wu Qichi.
The