Chapter 636

The sound of hurried footsteps echoed from the corridor, growing clearer as they approached. A servant hurried in, looking flustered. "Madam, His Excellency is here!"

A middle-aged woman, dressed in a simple yet elegant silk robe, was seated by the window, her hand gracefully holding a teacup. Her brow furrowed slightly as she heard the news, but her voice remained calm. "Bring him in."

The servant bowed and quickly retreated. Soon after, a tall figure entered the room. His steps were heavy, and his expression was grim. He didn't even glance at the woman, heading straight for a map spread out on a nearby table. His finger traced a line across the map, his eyes narrowed in deep thought.

The woman watched him silently for a moment before speaking softly. "What troubles you, my Lord?"

He didn't answer immediately. He picked up a small flag from the table and placed it on a specific spot on the map, then let out a frustrated sigh. "The barbarians from the north have crossed the border again. This time, they've breached the Black Rock Pass."

The woman's hand tightened around her teacup. "Black Rock Pass? That's impossible! It's strategically located, and our defenses there are strong."

"Strong, yes, but not invincible," he retorted, his voice laced with weariness. "It seems they had inside help. A general from the frontier garrison, Li Ming, vanished last night. We suspect he was the one who opened the gates."

A cold glint flashed in the woman's eyes. "Li Ming? He was your trusted subordinate. How could he betray you?"

"That's what I intend to find out," he said, turning to face her, his gaze intense. "But for now, the priority is to send reinforcements. If Black Rock Pass falls completely, the capital will be vulnerable."

"Reinforcements are already being prepared, aren't they?" she asked, her voice calm. "General Wang is leading the First Legion."

He nodded. "Yes. But it might not be enough. The barbarians are far more numerous than we anticipated. And their new leader, Borjigin, is cunning and ruthless."

The woman rose from her seat and walked towards him, her silk robe rustling softly. "My Lord, you have always overcome every challenge. This one will be no different. Our people have faith in you." She placed a hand gently on his arm.

He looked at her, his stern expression softening slightly. "Your faith is my strength, my dear. But this time, the stakes are incredibly high."

"Then we must meet the challenge with equal resolve," she said, her eyes firm. "What assistance do you require? I can mobilize the reserves, gather supplies, or send word to the allied clans."

He considered her words, his gaze returning to the map. "We need to secure the supply lines. The roads to the north are treacherous. Also, ensure the city guards are on high alert. There might be spies within the capital trying to sow discord."

"It will be done," she affirmed, her voice resolute. "And what of Li Ming? Do you want him captured alive?"

He clenched his jaw. "If possible, yes. I want to know why he did this. But if he resists, then... ensure he never betrays anyone again." His voice was low and dangerous.

The woman understood. She nodded slowly. "I will personally oversee the preparations. Don't worry, my Lord. We will protect our home."

He looked at her, a hint of admiration in his eyes. "You always do, my love." He turned back to the map, his mind already formulating strategies. The fate of the empire rested heavily on his shoulders, but with her by his side, he felt a renewed sense of purpose.