Xiushui Commandery, Listening Fragrance Waterside Pavilion in the rear courtyard of the Shangguan residence.
Shangguan Shenhao was embroidering flowers.
He held a piece of silk in his right hand and worked the needle and thread with his steel left hand. His fingers danced like fluttering blossoms, incredibly nimble and exceptionally precise.
Before long, a lifelike lotus appeared on the silk.
Across from him, Long Heng watched with admiration in his eyes.
He knew Shangguan Shenhao was practicing through embroidery, striving to master his steel left hand. By now, its flexibility and precision were almost indistinguishable from those of a real arm.
His severed arm affected Shangguan Shenhao less and less. In the future, he could even use this priceless Fifth Grade magic artifact to become stronger.
"It's getting late."
Shangguan Shenhao abruptly stopped and looked toward the eastern sky. Facing the morning sun, he narrowed his eyes slightly. "Has Chu Xisheng dispatched his troops?"
Long Heng raised his brows. "I'm not sure, but last night, Chu Xisheng recalled all the gang members he'd scattered along the canal to West Mountain Town. All of West Mountain Hall's altar masters and deputy altar masters have gathered at his Chu residence as well. There's a strong chance he'll march this morning, though he might also lose his nerve before battle."
Long Heng gave an easy smile and raised his hand to pour Shangguan Shenhao tea. "Actually, whether he attacks Wen Family Fort today makes no difference. His fate was sealed the moment he took over as township head. Why concern yourself so much, Clan Head Shangguan?"
If Chu Xisheng marched on Wen Family Fort, his weapons would surely shatter beneath the Walled Fort's walls.
If he lost his nerve before battle and stayed tucked inside West Mountain like a turtle, then his family