The higher-ups were pressing hard, and the war situation was indeed grim. He Changnian naturally agreed and immediately went to summon every Grand Artisan, Master Artisan, Craftsman, and even Apprentice in the city who could still move.
Before long, the Puppet Masters had gathered, awaiting Li Chen's orders.
Li Chen looked them over and could not help feeling surprised. Only four Grand Artisans, just over three hundred Master Artisans, and more than five thousand Apprentices had come.
"Elder He," Li Chen said, "as far as I know, a Sky City's standard complement is one Grandmaster Artisan, ten Grand Artisans, over a thousand Master Artisans, and more than ten thousand Craftsmen. Why are there only this many now?"
He Changnian sighed softly. "You don't know the circumstances. We suffered heavy losses in the earlier battle. Some are still recuperating from serious injuries, and even those who insisted on coming here aren't necessarily unscathed..."
"Besides, some people must remain at their posts. They really cannot leave."
Only then did Li Chen notice that even He Changnian himself looked listless, barely managing to muster his spirits. Some of the Puppet Master Master Artisans and Quasi-Grand Artisan experts also looked unwell.
Li Chen said apologetically, "I'm truly sorry..."
He Changnian waved a hand, cutting him off. "It's nothing. As long as you understand our difficulties. This time, even I, a Puppet Master Grandmaster, am willing to work under your direction. Whatever preparations are needed, however we should begin the transformation, please give your orders!"
"Please give your orders, Grand Artisan Li!" A wave of assent suddenly surged through the hall.
Li Chen looked around and saw that everyone seemed to be holding a ball of fury inside. Their expressions were solemn, their gazes blazing. He nodded inwardly.
Their hearts were ready to rally!
Although