"Good. In a time of crisis, true iron-blooded loyalty shines through. I didn't misjudge you. With you holding the north gate to the death, I am greatly relieved."
Before everyone, Zhou Xingzhan lavishly praised Li Xuancang. When it mattered, it was still one's own people who could be relied upon.
Zhou Xingzhan immediately ordered, "All defenses at the north gate, military equipment, provisions, and temporary reinforcements are to be placed under Battalion Commander Li's command."
The appreciation and trust in his eyes were utterly undisguised.
The people who had shirked responsibility and feared battle nearby all flushed red with shame, lowering their heads and not daring to look directly at Li Xuancang or Zhou Xingzhan.
It wasn't that they were simply greedy for life and afraid of death. In these chaotic times, they didn't represent only themselves—behind them stood their families and Lineages. If anything happened, their entire Lineage would decline.
After making the arrangements, everyone took up their respective duties and swiftly began moving.
Li Xuancang led his soldiers quickly to the north gate and took over all its defenses.
Besides Li Xuancang's five hundred men, there were another five hundred directly commanded by Zhou Xingzhan, as well as a force of a thousand assembled by the various powers within the city.
These forces included gang factions, as well as the retainers and servants of powerful clans and aristocratic families.
"Prefect Sun has already assembled a large number of strong young men. They can join the battlefield at any time."
Zhou Xingzhan came to Li Xuancang's side and spoke softly.
This battle concerned the very survival of Profound Sun Commandery. The authorities were also going all out, forming a reserve force.
"Let us in!"
"Please, open the city gates!"
"I don't want to die! Let me in!"
"..."
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