Mu Kongdong

After a considerable amount of time, the five admirals made their exit.

While they did not give their consent, it was challenging for them to oppose the emperor's authority.

Yang appeared to be the only one who held a favorable view of Luo Yin's plan for the forthcoming operations.

However, the other four admirals had varying expressions that conveyed their disapproval of the Young Admiral's use of the emperor's power.

For Lieutenant Commander Lin Feng, circumstances were forming in which it was a bit difficult to remain silent.

Despite the situation at hand, Luo Yin had a bad reputation for being an overly young upstart.

From the perspective of these seasoned commanders, he was no more than an insignificant pebble in their path.

It was not as though this was Luo Yin's first campaign, though. Luo Yin had been involved in several campaigns in the years since he joined the army.

He had already emerged victorious in numerous battles, proving his mettle as the Commander of the Ink Dragon Fleet.

Despite his successful record, the old commanders' response was lackluster, attributing his success to factors such as his unit's strength or the enemy's weakness.

And because it was difficult to say that Luo Yin was humble and courteous in all matters, their antipathy toward him had been amplified.

As such the seniors were hesitant to acknowledge his achievements and instead chose to downplay his contributions.

Lieutenant Commander Lin Feng's anxious expression did not go unnoticed by Luo Yin, who could sense his worry.

"Do not worry, Lin Feng," Luo Yin reassured him. "These cowards do not have the courage to defy the emperor's authority vested in me. They are merely disgruntled individuals, and their grievances will soon pass.".

Lin Feng looked hesitant, his concern clear on his face. "But what little courage they have may gather in the shadows," he said.

Luo Yin let out a low chuckle, amused by Lin Feng's apprehension. "Relax, my friend," he said. "There's no need to fret. These commanders are full of bluster now, but their situation will change in a single day."

With that, Luo Yin rose from his chair and strode towards his private room, leaving Lieutenant Commander Lin Feng in charge of the bridge.

As he walked, his thoughts wandered to the Starship's display, and he pondered the loyalty of his subordinates.

Most of those from the Ink Dragon Fleet respected him and knew of his qualities but the same couldn't be applied for the outsiders who join the Fleet for certain missions like the Five Admirals.

Though he was confident in his abilities, he knew that he could not let his guard down. He would have to remain vigilant and keep a close eye on those who may be plotting against him.

In his private room, Luo Yin sank into a comfortable armchair, allowing himself a moment of respite from the stresses of command.

He knew that the road ahead would be long and fraught with danger, but he was ready for whatever challenges lay in store.

He closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and let his mind wander, preparing himself for whatever the future may bring.

–

Meanwhile In the Human Dao Alliances' Camps.

The twenty one year old Mu Kongdong, with his long gray hair, green eyes, and tall height and build, gave the impression of an easygoing scholar rather than that of a soldier.

At least that's the impression one might describe if pressed. Most people who looked at him saw nothing more than a very quiet-natured young man.

Most couldn't believe their ears when they heard of his rank being an Admiral. He was a history addict with great admiration for those who lived in the past.

Currently, he was in his private room, reading a passage containing information on the Divine Treasures found in the Great Change Era.

After a moment of pause, the passage that was displayed on the console's tiny screen suddenly dimmed and faded out. Faster than one could push a control button, another passage appeared.

"Excellency Mu Kongdong, please report to the bridge as quickly as possible."

His reading interrupted, Admiral Mu Kongdong grabbed his uniform and ran a hand through his unruly head of gray hair.

As the Commander of the Human Dao Alliance's Second Fleet, Admiral Mu Kongdong occupied a private room located in close proximity to the bridge of the Fleet's Flagship vessel, Hades.

He had been indulging in his own leisurely pursuits, engrossed in reading on a console designed originally as a tactical computer.

Thus, there was no sense in him harboring any annoyance when he was summoned to the bridge.

Upon arriving at the bridge, Lieutenant Commander Xiu Yong, and other subordinates were eagerly awaiting Admiral Mu Kongdong's presence.

"Welcome back, Your Excellency!"

They respectfully rose to their feet, greeting him with due deference. The Admiral waved his hand, signaling for them to take their seats.

"How is everything proceeding? Is there anything that requires my attention?" inquired Mu Kongdong with a pleasant smile, demonstrating his characteristic easy going nature.

He was known to maintain a casual demeanor around his subordinates.

"Yes, sir." Lieutenant Commander Xiu Yong spoke in a respectful tone, "I have carefully examined the tactical plan you submitted, and it did pique my interest. However, I couldn't help but feel that you are being too cautious, Your Excellency."

"I see," replied Admiral Mu Kongdong with a smile, speaking in a low tone.

"Excuse me, sir, but as you noted earlier, it would be difficult to lose with this strategy. Our fleets are closing in on the enemy from three directions, and we have twice their numbers. All the conditions are in place for a significant victory."

Lieutenant Commander Xiu Yong stated, trying to emphasize the need for a confident approach as well as probing Admiral Mu Kongdong to reveal his reasoning.

Admiral Mu Kongdong calmly responded, "I understand your concern. However, I am not thinking of ways to avoid losing, but rather how to secure a win. We must be cautious and not underestimate our enemy, for they have not yet lost."

Lieutenant Commander Xiu Yong was left stunned. "Isn't this Young Admiral a bit too thoughtful for his age?" He thought.

Admiral Mu Kongdong knew that if the enemy forces survived the current formations' attacks, the situation would turn dire.

Therefore, he approached the plan with caution, determined to secure a resounding victory.