On the eighth day of the eighth month, the agreed-upon fifth day, the Xuanwu Army's camp was steeped in misery, a dark cloud hanging over every head.
The Xuanwu Army was one of the Qing Kingdom's elite forces. If ranked, it would certainly place among the top five. The fact that a Grand Academician personally commanded it said everything.
Decades ago, this army had beaten the Jing Army into fleeing like rats with their heads covered.
Over a century ago, this army had followed the Qing Founding Ancestor on campaigns north and south, earning illustrious military honors.
But now, the entire army was actually expected to admit its guilt. This would not merely disgrace the Xuanwu Army; it would become a stain on the Qing Kingdom itself.
"Lord Chai, is there any way we can avoid this?" a general asked quietly.
Chai Zhi sighed softly. "Since we lost, I have nothing to say and ought to admit my mistake. But I imagine the civil and military officials will not agree."
"We can stall. Once we return to the Qing Kingdom, what can he do to us? Lord Chai, what do you think?"
Chai Zhi hesitated briefly. "Minor details are of no consequence, but greater principles must not be compromised. How can we bow our heads so easily over matters of state? I say we deal with him for a few more days before deciding. If my judgment is correct, the Qing Lord will certainly send people to bring us back. If a Great Scholar arrives, even Fang Yun will not dare do anything to us."
"Exactly. The Qing Lord will certainly send someone."
"Unfortunately, this place is far from the nearest Temple of Sages. Otherwise, a single message would settle everything."
The other generals of the Xuanwu Army said nothing.