Whether the purpose was to covet him, like Pei Jingcheng of the Sword Tomb, or simply to hope that he would grow up and accomplish something, Zhao Wujiang was absent-minded, acting like a ruthless pile-driving machine, completely unaware of how Xiao Wanjun's body suddenly tensed before she trembled like a sifter and went limp.
***
Dawn.
An imperial decree was issued.
The Ministry of War rapidly mobilized troops and generals, and the Daxia Dynasty officially launched a counterattack against the forces of the Southern Frontier.
As soon as this news spread, the imperial court and the entire country were shaken.
Some officials clapped and cheered, believing that Daxia should show its true might. How dare mere minor southern barbarians repeatedly provoke the great Daxia?
Other officials considered it unwise, arguing that Daxia had been weakened in recent years and should instead make peace with neighboring forces to recuperate and build up its strength; meeting provocation with counterattack was a waste of people and money, lacking the magnanimity of a great power.
Still other officials were filled with anxiety. The Southern Frontier and Daxia had always been enemies, as recorded in the palace archives, and their strength was definitely not comparable to those minor Western Regions states. This battle before the year-end might well bring bitterness and hardship to Daxia.
After the morning court session, a small court assembly was held between Xuanyuan Jing and several veteran pa…
Chapter 98