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Shang Palace, Great King's Hall.

Unknowingly, King Zhou was no longer young. Though still in his prime, seated upon the throne, his burly frame had already grown somewhat stooped, and overnight, much white had appeared in his hair.

More than a dozen ministers sat behind two rows of low tables, each maintaining silence, not daring to utter a single extra word.

After an unknown length of time, King Zhou asked in a hoarse voice:

"Has there been a letter?"

Royal Uncle Bi Gan rose and said, "Great King, Western Zhou is far from Chaoge, and even beacon-fire messages require—"

"Report—"

A general suddenly rushed in from outside the hall. Upon entering, he clasped his fists and shouted:

"Grand Preceptor Wen Zhong led his army to breach Western Zhou City, but the rebel armies of the southern and northern feudal lords arrived at that very moment and trapped the Grand Preceptor within Western Zhou City.

"The Grand Preceptor... died fighting with all his strength.

"The rear army has already returned to the various passes. By the Grand Preceptor's command, they are carrying out the defense against the Zhou Kingdom!"

"What?"

"Why did the Grand Preceptor—"

"Your Majesty, this old minister is willing to lead an army against Zhou!"

The ministers' expressions changed drastically. Several even lost their composure, rising too abruptly and knocking over their low tables.

King Zhou closed his eyes and remained silent. His body trembled slightly a few times, yet he showed no further loss of composure.

Only after the hall had quieted did King Zhou speak, though his breath could not help but tremble.

"Men, distribute the Grand Preceptor's final counsel to my ministers."

Several armored guards immediately stepped forward from the side and placed the bamboo slips they carried before each minister.

King Zhou said:

"The