Outside the gates of the Imperial Capital.
With the Futu Army's banner burned, the conflict between the two sides escalated.
The second prince finally stepped forward, asking specifically to see Gu Chenfeng, who led the troops.
Seeing that it was the second prince, Luo Heng, the Futu Army's commander, finally restrained his men and sent someone to report.
A long while passed.
Clop, clop, clop...!
To the leisurely clatter of hooves, Gu Chenfeng finally appeared at an unhurried pace, wearing a commander's black armor and astride a fine horse.
"What happened? Didn't I tell you to hurry into the city?"
Gu Chenfeng looked as though he knew nothing about it.
Commander Luo Heng stepped forward and briefly explained what had happened.
Only then did Gu Chenfeng raise his eyes toward the second prince, whose expression was rather unpleasant.
"Well, if it isn't Your Highness, the second prince. Forgive my discourtesy.
"I am wearing armor and cannot conveniently salute. Please forgive me, Your Highness."
Gu Chenfeng perfunctorily cupped his hands toward the second prince.
The second prince, Li Yuanrui, gave a light snort.
"Hmph, dispense with the formalities. Deputy Commander Gu, you certainly know how to keep your composure, only agreeing to show yourself now."
Naturally, the second prince was angry that Gu Chenfeng had not appeared sooner to restrain his soldiers.
Otherwise, things would never have reached this point.
Gu Chenfeng merely smiled apologetically.
"Forgive me, Your Highness. I was wounded while fighting at the Border Pass and have been sleeping in the carriage all this time. My ears were a little dull."
"Hmph!"
This cold snort came from Zhang You beside the second prince.
"Gu Chenfeng, how dare you! You think earning merit at the Border Pass gives you the right to hold everyone in contempt.
"You actually allowed