In the City Lord's Mansion at Black Gold City, Wen Yusheng, looking exhausted, carried a document as he walked toward the office where the clan leader resided.0

His fatigue wasn't just from hearing about the crushing defeat on the frontlines and the news that his eldest son, in whom he had placed high hopes, had been captured.0

In just a few months, his responsibilities had grown from managing the affairs of Xiangye Territory to nearly overseeing a third of Molong Country's matters.0

That wasn't even the worst of it.0

The real problem was that many elders, believing their seniority gave them the right, had started to vie for power as soon as the situation seemed to improve.0

With all these issues piling up, Wen Yusheng felt drained. He even started longing for the simpler days in Xiangye Territory six months ago.0

Unfortunately... there was no going back.0

Carrying these heavy thoughts, he soon arrived at Lin Langya's office.0

Before he could enter, he overheard the clan leader giving orders.0

 "We must hold River Valley City at all costs. It's the gateway to the...0