At the third watch of midnight, the north wind howled.
An oppressive atmosphere hung over the command tent.
Everyone's expression was rigid as iron.
The army supervisor in a Python Robe from the Directorate of Ceremonial flew into a rage, nearly shouting his throat raw:
"Pacification Commissioner Jia, do you take Northern Liang's survival as a child's game? We're already straining every sinew to hold the passes. If we march out to attack, we'll lose our territory and watch helplessly as the barbarians ravage Liangzhou!"
The Old Eunuch trembled all over with fury.
This decision was a disgrace to the art of war!
Governor-General Zhang Xuanji's face darkened as he said heavily:
"Pacification Commissioner Jia, if you don't come to your senses, you'll become the laughingstock of the world! You'll be spat upon by the masses!"
"You hold the command tally and insist on having your own way despite all our attempts to dissuade you. We will report the truth to the Central Court, and you alone will bear the blame!"
Jia Huan stared coldly at him:
"Get out. Effective immediately, Qi Shanguo will temporarily exercise the Governor-General's authority!"
"A wise decision, Pacification Commissioner Jia!"
Rather than growing angry, Zhang Xuanji cupped his hands in praise, then strode swiftly away.
The Python-Robe Eunuch followed close behind. He needed to submit an urgent report to the Central Court.
Pacification Commissioner Jia was overseeing the battlefield with the Embroidered Uniform Guard's methods. This was a calamity of monstrous proportions!
Jia Huan studied Northern Liang's Garrison Commander and said sternly:
"General Qi, we've worked together before. This time, you must obey my orders without question!"
Bitterness filled Qi Shanguo's heart. He glanced at the command tally, then met Jia Huan's eyes. All he could do was answer firmly:
"Yes, sir!"
No matter how