"I will," Xiaochen replied instantly.
"No!" General Liao barked. "You are our leader, our only hope. If you fall, we all fall. I will lead the rearguard. My life is already spent in service. You must protect the future."
"General, no," Xiaochen started, but Liao cut him off.
"This is not a debate, Commander," Liao said, his gaze firm, unwavering. "It is an order. Your command is to ensure the survival of our people. Mine is to ensure you have the time to do it." He turned to a small group of veteran warriors, their faces grim but resolute. "You, you, and you! With me! We will hold the line! Give them hell!"
A wave of chilling dread washed over Xiaochen. He knew what this meant. He saw the quiet resolve in their eyes, the acceptance of their fate. These were brave men and women, ready t
