General Zhang Liao moved the moment Zhang Fei's breath began to hitch.
His sleeve flicked with a whisper of qi, dissolving the invisible weight pressing down on his comrade.
In an instant, Zhang Fei stumbled backward, gasping, though Zhang Liao's firm hand caught him by the shoulder before he could fall.
Zhang Liao stepped forward, lowering his head slightly toward General Sun, his tone smooth and conciliatory, yet carrying the authority of a senior.
"General Sun, we all carry weary hearts and restless tempers in times such as these," Zhang Liao said, his voice calm but clear enough to cut the tension. "Perhaps you might find it in your to forgive the juniors rash words. He spoke out of turn, not out of malice."
Then, with a gentle but unmistakable push, he nudged Zhang Fei forward. His eyes flicked sharply, a silent command only his junior could read.
"Zhang Fei," Zhang Liao said firmly, "apologize to General Sun."
