Cold sweat seeped from Yuchi Chong's forehead, and he privately wondered what was going on. Although Xue Daoming resented him, the emperor had always feared the military power in his hands and had treated him with considerable respect during their few meetings. Never before had he spoken so harshly or found fault at every turn as he did today. Could his purpose in coming here be more than merely ****? Did he intend to use the winter truce to move against me, replace the Northern Frontier's commander, and seize firm control of its military power himself?
Dong Tianjiang spoke from beside him. "Your Majesty, the Commander-in-Chief has always been unswervingly loyal and devoted to the country. How could he harbor such thoughts?"
Xue Daoming said, "I doubt he would dare. Rise, old minister. In this freezing weather, those old bones of yours cannot withstand such strain."
Yuchi Chong slowly rose and cast Dong Tianjiang a grateful glance. Dong Tianjiang had once served under him; in that sense, Yuchi Chong could be considered his former teacher.
Xue Daoming said, "I have come here to **** because I remember the hardships you have endured fighting on the Northern Frontier. I therefore made special arrangements to allocate grain and supplies, giving priority to the soldiers here."
Yuchi Chong answered respectfully, "Thank you for your boundless grace, Your Majesty!" He hesitated before continuing, "Your Majesty, this old servant begs leave to speak. The grain and supplies delivered this time do not match what you previously approved. They amount to less than half our military requirements. I fear..."
Xue Daoming sighed. "How could I not know? But the Imperial Court has its own difficulties. Even these provisions were supplied to you on a priority basis. You must show greater understanding of the court's difficulties, old