The force dispatched by the Military Prefecture left behind the necessary personnel to establish landmarks, while the rest escorted the craftsmen toward the territory ruled by the Hao Clan.
Since they had previously made contact and exchanged words with the fief of one of the Hao Clan's scions, a flying vessel would come to receive them once they crossed the border, taking them directly to that Creation Factory to exchange techniques.
If not for those few craftsmen dragging them down, the armored soldiers of the Military Prefecture could have flown straight across. But now, they could only use the beasts prepared in advance by the armored guards here to carry them. This stretch of the journey was expected to take two days.
During the journey, a craftsman surnamed Li approached Commandant Ming and said, "Commandant Ming, might we speak alone?"
Commandant Ming looked at him and raised a hand. Cong Fu moved some distance away, and he said, "Talk."
Craftsman Li said, "I have looked over the force sent out by the Military Prefecture this time. I know they place extraordinary importance on Commandant Mo, but they have slighted you far too much, Commandant Ming."
Commandant Ming curled his lip. "It's enough that you know that. There's no need to emphasize it again."
Craftsman Li said, "I have no intention of offending you, Commandant. I am merely stating what I have seen. The Celestial Mechanism Institute is closely tied to the Profound Residence, and we are willing to offer Commandant Ming our assistance. Believe us—we will certainly be able to help you raise your standing."
Commandant Ming said unhappily, "I earned my position myself. What kind of sense would it make to need your help? My own efforts come first."
Craftsman Li could not help drawing a deep breath, as