Within the now-conquered Ten Thousand Treasures City, the key figures of the Blood Conquering Empire's army gathered for a discreet discussion.
Prince Ot Khan led the conversation. "Now that we've secured Ten Thousand Treasures City, where should our conquest lead us next?"
Ot Tang chimed in, suggesting, "I propose we take on a greater challenge, like the Heavenly Don Empire. The Lin Empire seems to be of weaker stock."
Jin Xingling, a well-known but enigmatic figure among the younger generation of the Blood Conquering Empire, added her perspective. Known for her unpredictable nature, she was the daughter of Jin Xiang, patriarch of the formidable Moon Sword Sect. Jin Xingling had been selected as one of the sect's swordchildren, an elite group groomed for leadership within the sect. Sects stood outside the normal governmental hierarchy, holding a unique position of power; above super kingdoms and slightly beneath the Empires.
Jin Xingling asserted, "Prince Khan, we all know this isn't truly a victory. The Lin Empire's Scions wish to avoid this war. Why should we force them into it? We should halt our conquests under the Lin Empire's banner and focus on planning an attack against the Heavenly Don Empire."
Luo Hu supported her view. "I second the swordchild's proposal."
Prince Ot Yan shook his head, offering a different perspective. "I know you all underestimate the value of wisdom and strategy, but sometimes, these qualities are more potent than brute strength and ferocity. I might not seek bloodshed as eagerly as you do, but I believe that the wisest course of action is to recall our soldiers to bolster our defenses. Then, two days before the war's end, we launch our attack."
Prince Ot Khan regarded Ot Yan with disdain, asserting, "Yan'er, you fail to understand that strength conquers all."
The others concurred with Ot Khan's statement, except for Ot Yan, who simply shook his head in resignation.
Ot Luan, her tone now more respectful, shared her opinion. "I believe there is wisdom in what Brother Yan has said. I suggest we dispatch sacrificial soldiers to initiate assaults on the Heavenly Don Empire's settlements while we return to fortify our defenses."
Yun Lee lent his voice of agreement. "I support Princess Luan's and Prince Yan's ideas. They are truly outstanding. But, Big Brother Khan, I trust your leadership and your exceptional decisions."
Jin Xingling couldn't help but snort at Yun Lee's attempt to please everyone. However, she concurred with Ot Luan's and Ot Yan's strategy. "The best plan is the one proposed by Princess Luan and Prince Yan. I support it, but we must vacate this city."
Prince Ot Khan considered their opinions before nodding in satisfaction. "You have all contributed greatly. I will dispatch two groups of sacrificial soldiers to attack the Heavenly Don Empire. They should conquer any Lin Empire settlements they encounter along the way. The rest of us will follow closely behind. The moment the Heavenly Don Empire retaliates, we will join the fray."
Prince Ot Yan attempted to voice his concerns, but Prince Ot Khan decisively interrupted him, declaring, "It's a military order."