Inside the imperial campaign tent at the center of the encampment, the bright yellow canopy remained glaring beneath the gloomy, overcast sky. Burning agarwood filled the space, yet it could not mask the heavy scent of medicine and fresh blood.
Emperor Xia Hong sat upright upon the purple sandalwood dragon throne, radiating an oppressive majesty beneath his bright yellow casual robes. His knuckles tapped rhythmically against the armrest, his gaze as deep and still as an abyss. Chu Fengling stood guard in a corner with his hand resting on his sword; the cold light of his armor flickered as his gaze swept indifferently past the tent entrance.
The tent flap was suddenly whipped open. Two silver-armored guards half-carried, half-dragged Qin Lie inside. His entire body was caked in half-dried mud, exuding a sour stench, and his thin, tattered garments clung tightly to his shivering frame.
Chapter 50