Some people noticed that the Empress Dowager behind the curtain seemed to be trembling slightly. They could not tell whether she was laughing.
Liu Shan remained silent for a long time.
Only after everyone had laughed their fill did Fang Yun say, "Since you know your own limitations, Prime Minister Liu, I will let the matter rest. Mountain Breaker, tell us what you think."
Everyone suppressed their smiles, knowing it was time to discuss serious business.
Zhang Poyue considered for several moments, then asked, "Should we account for the arrival of a Half-Sage?"
"If a Half-Sage arrives, that is beyond our concern," Fang Yun said.
Everyone fell silent. Indeed, there was no point in anyone below the rank of Half-Sage considering that question.
"In that case, I believe three matters demand immediate attention. First, we should assign more Craftsmen School scholars to reinforce Ning'an's northern wall, where the Barbarian Race will concentrate its assault. Second, we should prepare ample supplies and military equipment, as this battle will likely drag on for a very long time. Third, we should evacuate some of the elderly and children, leaving only the young and able-bodied. Other matters can be discussed later," Zhang Poyue said.
Fang Yun nodded. "General Zhang is quite right. Grand Academician Liu, you held the Three-Linked War Fortresses for many days. Tell us your thoughts."
Liu Hong considered for a moment, then promptly offered his views.
Soon, the many scholars began speaking in succession. Some focused on the human side, others on the demon barbarians.
At that moment, Ning'an's Literary Academy was filled with assembled worthies and abundant talent. Any flaw in a plan would be spotted by someone else, and even disputes were quickly settled.
Before long, Fang Yun compiled the fruits of everyone's wisdom, then announced a draft of