The most skilled army of the Lian Empire was stationed two thousand li from the city of Bai Wu, awaiting orders for the final battle. In the center of the camp, deep inside the most ornate tent, sat a young woman whose mere presence commanded discipline. Princess Zhao's body was clad in silk armor—a masterpiece of Lian technology, light as the wind yet nearly impenetrable.
Her hair was pinned up with masterful precision, studded with jewels brighter than the brightest, which sparkled like stars in the candlelight. The immense weight of the jewelry pulled her head down constantly, a symbol of the empire's centuries-old expectations and the burdens of noble birth. However, she fiercely resisted the physical gravity, holding her neck proudly and straight, her gaze fixed on the battle plan.
"Your Majesty! According to our scouts, Wei Jun has camped at the border of Bai Wu but is not moving."
The princess's face remained on the map, but her gaze was not on the city of Bai Wu, but on the Long Xia Pass. "Your Highness!" I heard the lieutenant general say, "Wei Jun is probably well prepared for this siege, and we are two thousand li away. Even if we set out immediately, we probably wouldn't make it there. Even if we went by boat, the situation would still be precarious."
The princess's words were clear: she would not send a relief army to Bai Wu's aid. The officers looked at each other, many of them finding the princess's words incomprehensible.
"Princess! With all due respect, Bai Wu has a huge stone wall, and it is rare for there to be no fog, not to mention that it is bordered by a river on all sides.
Many agree with General Si Long Tuo's argument, so the general insists on sending a relief army, and many generals support him. The northern army is already divided, and they have not even faced the Iron Army yet. The princess sits at the table with all the generals beside her, and Princess Zhao listens to the proposal.
"I understand what the general is trying to say, but we are too far away. Even if we hold out for two or three days, it is not certain that we will get there. If we get there and the city has been occupied by then, we will be at a great disadvantage because we will have nowhere to retreat to.
"Hear my command! Send a message to the governor of Bai Wu to begin evacuating the city, starting with the children, women, and elderly. As long as there are civilians in the city, the soldiers must fight to the death. Our army should also prepare to march to the Long Xia Pass.
"Yes, Your Majesty!