The room was filled with an atmosphere of dismay as the leading figures of the Blood Conquering Empire contemplated their precarious situation. Jin Xingling's hopeful words provided a glimmer of optimism.
"I don't think is as bad as we all are thinking it to be, so why the dejection, my dad used to always tell me that hard times makes a man while harder times crowns a King."
Ot Khan supported her perspective, reminding everyone that their assumptions might not be accurate and that they should maintain their fighting spirit.
"It's indeed as Lady Xingling has said, let's not forget these are just our assumptions, so it shouldn't weigh down on our fighting will, even if our thoughts are true, we can still do something about it only if we are awake."
Just then, Yun Lee entered the room. Ot Tang inquired about the message he had been tasked to deliver and the current situation.
"Brother Lee, have you sent the message, did you get any notable feedback?"
"What is the situation at hand now."
Yun Lee nodded and began to reveal the unfolding events. "General and deputy generals, the war has already started."
Everyone became serious and dignified as they understood that for Yun Lee to change honorific titles at this point to military titles, it means he's getting serious, so they all perked up their ears to listen to what he wanted to say. Yun Lee continues
"The Lin Empire soldiers, who had been nonchalant about the war's outcome, have been deployed to guard the routes leading to their settlements. This means our way back is blocked."
"What the heck!" Everyone became furious
The room fell into a serious and dignified silence, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation. Ot Yan, however, seemed to find humor in the situation. He spoke aloud, as if talking to himself.
"Ah, I understand now. Don Jian is a true master of all. I wish I could become his servant to learn from him. He has played the game before the battle began. He used a strategy I'd call 'silence as the best agitation.'"
"I see, men have always been scared of the unknown."
Everyone looked puzzled and concerned by Ot Yan's laughter and cryptic words, especially when he praised their enemy.
Princess Ot Luan questioned him, "Yan, why are you praising the enemy? Instead of helping us, you're glorifying him."
Ot Yan continued to laugh and explained his perspective. "The truth is, Don Jian doesn't see us as enemies. He has already held everyone in the ancestral zone in his hands. He has predicted this day."
"Sister Luan ask me to think, hahaha, the same thinking you all despised, I'll tell you all the truth is that we've already lost, the only thing is Don Jian doesn't want to see unnecessary deaths. He wants surrender, which is why we're given the chance to discuss."
Ot Yan shared his suspicion that many of their soldiers could be imposters, including those back in the settlements, potentially controlled by Don Jian. He suggested that they'd soon lose a settlement, and Don Jian would use that as leverage to force their return.
Ot Khan grew impatient and shouted for Ot Yan to stop. The room fell silent. Then, Ot Khan spoke with determination, conviction and a nice voice as he turns to face Ot Yan.
"Little brother, I apologize on behalf of everyone. You are also wise. Please help us find a solution to turn the situation around. We can't waste any more time."
Ot Yan smirked and addressed the group. "I may not be as wise as Don Jian, but I've learned something from observing his actions. While it may not work, I'll share it anyway. Going back is a waste. We should attempt to conquer Heaven City."
Luo Hu muttered to himself, reflecting on the lessons they were learning. "Never underestimate anyone or anything."
Ot Khan remained resolute and decided on their course of action. "It's too late to turn back now. Prepare your units. Tomorrow, we attack Heaven City with our full strength. I don't believe a newly built town can stop us."
The deputy generals nodded gravely and quickly left the room, except for Ot Yan, who pulled Yun Lee aside for a private conversation.