Night fell like a sheet of ink, pressing heavily down upon Heiyan City as if portending an impending storm.
Outside the city, a fierce gale raged like an injured beast in agony, driving howling yellow sand against the city walls with a rustling clatter that heightened the tense and oppressive atmosphere.
Li Rufeng stood upon the ramparts, gazing out at the brilliantly lit military camp of the State Preceptor beyond the walls, knowing full well that a brutal battle was inevitable.
He gripped his spear tightly, the shaft trembling slightly as if in response to the turbulent emotions within his master's heart.
"General, the enemy is growing restless; they will likely attack the city tonight," Guan Xi's voice came from behind, carrying a hint of solemnity.
Li Rufeng turned to look at Guan Xi and nodded. "I can feel it too. Pass down the order: tell the brothers to be on their absolute guard and prepare to meet the enemy."
Mei Yuxin also stepped forward, clad in light yet resilient soft armor, her expression worried. "Rufeng, the enemy forces are vast, and with the State Preceptor as such a formidable adversary, how should we respond?"
Li Rufeng reached out and gently grasped Mei Yuxin's hand, offering her a comforting look. "Yuxin, don't worry. We still have our brothers here in Heiyan City; if we work with Qixin, we will surely hold the line. Besides, I have no intention of sitting idly by."
Chapter 273