"He routed the Hu cavalry, and I know his cavalry is formidable, but that was on the grasslands! When he attacks a city, that's a completely different story!"

"Hmph, let alone the barbican, he can't even break through the watchtower!"

Upon hearing this, Li Hai hurriedly looked up and said with an embarrassed smile:

“Father-in-law, since the defenses are so tight, you should let me guard the outer city, no, the inner city would be best.”

"After all, my troops are not familiar with this barbican. Your troops are more adept at fighting on the city walls."

Lian Xiaoru rolled his eyes at Li Hai, shook his head, and snorted coldly:

"Go down!"

Li Hai smiled and nodded, cupping his hands in a respectful gesture towards Lian Xiaoru. Before leaving, he turned back and cautiously asked, "Father-in-law, shall I go to the inner city or the outer city?"

"Outer city!" Lian Xiaoru shouted, his face ashen.

Upon receiving this answer, Li Hai's expression softened, and he couldn't help but let out a long sigh of relief.

Once outside the mansion, Li Hai looked at the full moon in the sky and a slight smile appeared on his lips. Then, he glanced back at the mansion gate, his expression changed, and he cursed under his breath:

"You old fool, you look down on me and still make me guard the barbican!"

"If I die, your daughter will be a widow in name only!"

"You think you're all that just because I flattered you? You're so bold, so fearless, then why did you cower like a turtle when Hu Ma beat you up!"

"Why don't I see you leading troops out to hunt down the Hu horses? You're so old and still shamelessly trying to gild your own reputation, ugh!"

Cursing under his breath, Li Hai lashed the horse with his whip. The horse, in pain, neighed and galloped away with Li Hai in its wake...

——

Meanwhile, in Huaiyao City.

Inside the military camp tent, Qin Ze was looking at a geomantic map illuminated by candlelight.