Chapter 530: The Division of the Dao
Within the Fu Clan Army, Daoist Zuo hurried over as soon as he learned that the Fu father and son had refused the Wei Clan Army.
Upon seeing the two men, he asked, "Commander, when the Fu Clan and Wei Clan join forces, both benefit; when they split, both suffer. This was the plan already agreed upon. Why refuse this time?"
Fu Yong said gravely, "Zuo Xuanxiu, it is not that I wish to do this. I have asked the soldiers here—once the wind and snow descend, they blanket the sky and bury mountains and fill seas. What chance would mere men have?
"I am thinking of the lives of the young men in the expeditionary units, which is why I am unwilling to advance. Yet the Wei Clan Army insists on pressing forward through a blizzard that could arrive at any time. They are being far too hasty."
Daoist Zuo said, "I have heard of this as well. They say the wind and snow may last at least a month. Both families have assignments to carry out. If we concern ourselves only with avoiding the blizzard and miss the allotted time, the Military Office may hold us accountable."
Fu Cuo said at this point, "But we had no advance warning that a blizzard was coming. Even if the matter reaches the Military Office, we have grounds to explain ourselves. Besides, the unit leaders below all oppose this decision. We cannot simply disregard their wishes."
He knew that they might encounter external enemies on this journey. There were three thousand regular troops stationed near this encampment, and hiding here was the safest choice possible. The arrival of the blizzard was a perfect excuse delivered right to their door—they could remain openly and honorably,