The sun had climbed high into the sky, its light bathing the land.

Huang Feihu arrived at the top of Chuanyun Pass, his piercing gaze surveying this strategically critical area. Eventually, his eyes settled on Xu Fang, the Garrison Commander standing atop the city wall, looking resolutely into the distance.

"General Xu, our failure to defend the boundary fortress is indeed a sign of our incapacity. It was fortunate that you came out to respond in time, preventing the annihilation of my entire army." Huang Feihu said gravely, a trace of self-reproach and gratitude in his voice.

Xu Fang quickly descended from the city wall and approached Huang Feihu, giving him a bow: "Grand Marshal, our defeat was due to the enemy's cunning strategies, not a failure on the Marshal's part. Moreover, I've heard that the Xi Qi rebels have been aided by Immortals from beyond our realm. Our soldiers are brave, but they cannot withstand such forces.

Furthermore, with our troops spread out inside the fortress and a lack of supplies, we cannot hold out for long. I implore you, Marshal, to make a decision."

Huang Feihu nodded, a flicker of approval in his eyes: "General Xu, though young, you have keen insight into the situation, which is a blessing for our forces. Together we defend Chuanyun Pass and will surely block Jiang Ziya's assault."

Xu Fang responded confidently: "Grand Marshal, Chuanyun Pass is strategically located and easy to defend but difficult to assault. If we deploy our defenses carefully, we will become the Xi Qi army's worst nightmare. Please rest assured, Marshal, I am willing to follow you unto death."

Huang Feihu felt a warmth in his heart upon hearing these words, and he left the ramparts with peace of mind to reorganize his troops.

However, not long after Huang Feihu's departure, a middle-aged man dressed in plain clothes hurried to Chuanyun Pass.

This man was You Hun, an Upper Doctor of Great Shang, and a favorite of Di Xin.

After finding Xu Fang, You Hun, wearing an expression mingled with mystery and coldness, glanced around to ensure there were no prying eyes, then whispered, "Garrison Commander Xu, I come bearing a royal decree from the King, with orders of great importance."

Xu Fang, startled, quickly ushered You Hun into a secret chamber and asked in a low voice, "Lord You, what matter requires such secrecy?"

You Hun produced a token from his sleeve, the imperial command of Di Xin.

He handed it to Xu Fang with an even deeper voice, "Emperor Di Xin is furious. He orders you to behead Huang Feihu, to demonstrate the military law within the ranks."

Xu Fang took the token, shock flickering in his eyes, but quickly regained his composure, and replied solemnly, "If this is the King's will, Lord You, I shall obey."

You Hun nodded, seemingly satisfied with Xu Fang's response, gave a few more instructions, and then left.

Yet, once You Hun's figure vanished, Xu Fang's face became etched with complexity.

As a veteran in the army, he knew of Huang Feihu's unwavering loyalty. Executing him would undoubtedly throw the military into chaos and defeat without a fight.

It seemed the rumors were true; the King of Great Shang had truly become a ruler of extreme folly.

Great Shang was doomed.

After a moment of contemplation, Xu Fang made a decision.

He discreetly dispatched his most trusted soldier to find Huang Feihu quietly and informed him of Di Xin's imperial command.

Struck by the news, Huang Feihu was utterly stunned, like he had been hit by thunder.

He had thought that his wholehearted loyalty to Great Shang meant the King trusted him completely.

But now, he faced such an end.

"In my life of warfare, with my loyalty unyielding, I have fallen into this desperate plight!" Huang Feihu felt a cold surge within his heart.

Though his heart was tumultuous, Huang Feihu maintained his usual composed exterior. He knew that he couldn't bear this news alone; he must let his family and subordinates know the truth and face this difficulty together.

Sending his most faithful envoy, he summoned his father Huang Gun, his brothers Huang Feibiao and Huang Feibao, as well as his subordinates Zhou Ji and Huang Ming. As they all gathered in the secret room, Huang Feihu laid out Emperor Di Xin's order without concealing any detail.

"The King dares to commit such injustice!" Huang Feibiao slammed his fist on the table, unable to contain his anger, "Brother has served the country loyally his entire life, and now he is met with such a vile act. We cannot sit and await death! Why don't we take up arms against Xi Qi's forces before they arrive and start a rebellion!"

Huang Gun's face changed dramatically upon hearing his son's impassioned words, and he rebuked: "Nonsense! Our Huang Family has been loyal for generations; how can we become traitors out of momentary anger! Huang Feihu, you are the eldest son of the Huang Family, and also the Marshal of Great Shang. You should personally go to Chaoge to confess your crime, to show the world our family's loyalty."

Listening to his father's words, Huang Feihu felt a mixture of emotions. He knew his father was right; the Huang Family couldn't betray the nation over personal grievances. Yet, he also knew that this trip to Chaoge was more likely to bring bad luck than good.

Zhou Ji and Huang Ming also joined the argument. As subordinates to Huang Feihu, they had deep affection for him but also recognized the traditions of the Huang Family and the laws of Great Shang.

"Marshal, we are willing to follow you, whether it be to life or death!" Zhou Ji said, tears glistening in his eyes, his voice steadfast.

Huang Ming, with a furrowed brow, spoke gravely, "Marshal, the current situation is complex; we must not act rashly. Perhaps it's best to stabilize the troops' morale first, then seek an opportunity to petition the Emperor. There might be a chance for a reprieve."

Huang Feibao, who was calmer than Huang Feibiao, spoke up, "Brother, our primary concern must be to ensure Chuanyun Pass remains secure. As for the King's command, we can first calm the troops' hearts before making further plans."

Opinions differed, and the argument continued unabated in the tense atmosphere of the secret room. Huang Feihu watched these devoted family members and subordinates, feeling the weight on his heart like a massive stone.

Finally, he took a deep breath and said in a firm voice, "Gentlemen, now is not the time for disputes. We must think calmly and find the best course of action. I will personally go to Chaoge, and the defense of Chuanyun Pass I entrust to you."