The army of twenty thousand set out, appearing like an endless dragon from a distance. Soldiers and horses moved in unison, creating a majestic momentum. Beneath the commanding flag was the main tent guarded by the central forces. This time, Pei Dun chose not to ride in a carriage but on horseback. His handsome face, adorned with military attire and armor, exuded a commanding presence, highlighting the demeanor of a military leader.
After all, Pei Dun had studied military strategy. Despite the urgency, the march and deployment were quite appropriate. Scouts were positioned in the front, followed by the supply train, and various military commanders on the sides, ready to inquire about the situation at any time. From Jinyang to Lishi, even if the entire army consisted of infantry, it could reach there within four or five days. It wouldn’t be long before the enemy forces would line up to confront them.
“General Linghu, where is the vanguard now?” Riding on horseback, Pei Dun turned to ask.
The “General Linghu” he referred to was not Linghu Sheng but the cavalry general accompanying the central army, Linghu Kuang. Having just taken Qixian, he barely had time to catch his breath before being summoned to the commander’s tent. To be honest, Linghu Kuang felt a bit disappointed, but duty called, and with his uncle leading the army, he dared not slack off. He immediately reported, “Reporting to the commander, the vanguard has already reached Ping Tao. Tomorrow, we should enter the territory of Xi County.”
“Spread the order, set up camp in Ping Tao today, and launch a swift attack on Lishi tomorrow!” Pei Dun commanded.
They had been on the march for two days since leaving Jinyang. The commanders, riding horses, were already exhausted. However, the soldiers relied only on their two legs, and the remaining dozen miles would undoubtedly be even more challenging. Pei Dun was determined to attack Lishi and wouldn’t delay the march for too long. How could Linghu Kuang disobey orders? He had to relay the command to speed up the marching pace.
Tightening the reins slightly, Pei Dun turned to Liu Changshi beside him and asked, “When will the troops from Shangdang arrive?”
“The general is in a hurry this time, and the route from Shangdang is a bit far. It should take another two days. However, this way, the enemy will be less prepared,” Liu Changshi replied. He was not particularly worried about Governor Liang’s refusal to send troops. The benefits of the salt fields in Hedong were not something anyone could easily reject. With the army divided into two routes, it was even more unexpected.
Hearing this, Pei Dun seemed to breathe a sigh of relief and continued, “If the Xiongnu defend Lishi and refuse to come out, head straight for Pu Zi and catch them off guard!”
This time, his goal was not to capture Lishi but to approach the rear of the Xiongnu, disrupting their plans to attack Hedong. If they were to besiege a city, it would be a needless loss of manpower. However, it was best to fight within the territory of Bing County, making it more justifiable.
“General, don’t worry. The Xiongnu are not good at defending cities; they will definitely mobilize their forces in advance.” The fact that the Xiongnu excelled in offense but struggled in defense was well known. They were unlikely to stubbornly defend a city. As long as they approached Lishi, a battle would inevitably ensue.
This was precisely the outcome Pei Dun desired. Without saying more, he urged his horse forward.
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The infantry in the front accelerated their marching pace, but the rear forces couldn’t keep up. Bing County had experienced frequent conflicts, and livestock, such as cattle and horses, were scarce. Therefore, the supply train in the rear mostly relied on manpower to pull the carts. Even for a short expedition, the amount of provisions needed for an army of twenty thousand was quite staggering. Not to mention the backup arrows, military equipment, and other supplies. The three thousand laborers had no room for slacking off.
They marched from dawn until dusk, and as they saw the lights of the main camp in the distance, these few miles seemed endless, making people feel despairingly exhausted.
“Quick! Pick up the pace!” The battalion commander loudly urged, “The main camp is just ahead! If you drag on, you’ll all be subject to military discipline!”
Hearing the officer’s shouts, everyone exerted extra effort, pushing and pulling the large carts beside them, staggering toward the front. After who knew how long, the officer finally gave the order to stop, allowing everyone to rest. These laborers were not entitled to stay in the military tents; finding a place to rest would suffice. Dinner was prepared, a meager clear soup without even pickled vegetables. Perhaps only the morning meal would be more substantial.
Enduring their anger in silence, everyone used wooden bowls to scoop up the porridge. It was already deep into autumn, and the weather was cooling, but sweat poured down like rain, seemingly unstoppable. Perhaps due to the oppressive journey, a young laborer couldn’t bear it any longer and whispered to the person beside him, “Zhao Da, why is this journey so rushed? Could it be they want us to attack the city and fill sandbags?”
Sometimes, even laborers had the task of storming a city. Charging into the enemy’s formation under a rain of arrows while carrying sandbags on their backs was truly terrifying. Transporting grain was one thing, but if they were really required to charge, how could these people survive?
“No, I heard someone say that this time we won’t be attacking a city. We’re going to fight the Xiongnu.” Zhao Da replied in a low voice, sounding quite decisive.
Hearing this, another person nearby hurriedly asked, “Fight the Xiongnu? What if they attack us? What if someone comes to raid our food and forage?”
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“We have soldiers guarding! Moreover, even if the enemy comes, we have so many carts. We can surround the carts and hide inside; the enemy won’t be able to do anything to us.” Zhao Da answered confidently.
These words immediately quieted down those around them. As long as they could stay alive, and endure some hardship, they could manage. Thanks to having Zhao Da around, a person with strength and knowledge, perhaps even stronger than those overseeing officers! Without him, everyone didn’t know how panicked they might have become.
Hastily finishing the porridge, the others, exhausted and collapsed on the ground, quickly fell into a deep sleep. Only Zhao Da didn’t sleep early; instead, he quietly explored the camp. His movements were extremely light, and he skillfully chose his path, surprisingly avoiding the guards. After circling around for a long time, when he encountered another person dressed as a laborer, Zhao Da finally stopped. The two gestured a few times, didn’t speak, and then each turned away as if completing some task.
Returning to his own group, Zhao Da breathed a sigh of relief and lay down on the ground. Perhaps someone slept lightly, murmuring, “Where did you go?”
“To take a dump,” Zhao Da casually replied.
The person didn’t ask further and dozed off again. Zhao Da, however, didn’t immediately fall asleep. He carefully thought about what he had seen tonight before finally closing his eyes. These people, following General Yi’s orders, infiltrated the laborer ranks not just to reassure and protect the civilians. The real moment for them to exert their strength would come when the main force truly engaged in battle or even started to collapse.
Just look at that person named Pei, how many days could he persist?
※
“Your Majesty! Jinyang has mobilized a large army, and there’s an urgent report from Lishi!” After several horses had died from exhaustion, the battle report arrived at Liu Yuan’s desk from Bing County in just over a day.
Currently, Liu Yuan was leading the attack on Hedong, having already captured two cities in a row. However, the challenges that lay ahead included Wenxi and the capital of Hedong, Anyi. Dealing with tough nuts like the Pei and Wei clans would be more challenging.
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In this critical moment of siege warfare, Liu Yuan was suddenly stunned when he heard the urgent news about Lishi. “Liang Zixi wants to attack Lishi?!”
Impossible! Didn’t Liu Hu already receive the news and start advancing toward Xinxing Commandery? With enemies lurking behind, how could Liang Zixi recklessly deploy forces to attack Lishi? What kind of state must Lishi be in now? If even Liu Hu had abandoned it, would Liang Zixi still bother to snatch it?
“Not Liang Zixi but the newly appointed peace general of Bing County, General Pei Dun, is leading the troops,” the soldier reported, bringing detailed information to Liu Yuan’s attention.
“Pei Dun!” Upon hearing this name, Liu Yuan immediately understood. They were coming to rescue Hedong! This kid from the Pei family was indeed audacious, daring to lead the Bing County troops to lift the siege on Hedong. Why didn’t Liang Zixi intervene?
After just a moment of contemplation, Liu Yuan decisively declared, “Order Liu Hu to immediately attack Jinyang!”
A newly appointed Bing County peace general could take such a daring risk to send troops to rescue Hedong. What did this signify? It meant that Jinyang’s political situation was unstable and feeble! If Liu Hu and the Xibei advanced massively now, they might be able to capture that sturdy city! If Jinyang fell, and Liang Zixi was killed, what significance would this Pei child have? Moreover, losing Jinyang would scatter the attacking Jin forces, presenting an excellent opportunity to capture Bing County!
“Xuan Ming, lead another five thousand cavalry to rush to Lishi! Make sure to crush Pei Dun’s forces!” Liu Yuan, without stopping his horse, also gave orders to his son, Liu Cong.
Who was Liu Cong? Instantly understanding the importance of this battle, he respectfully accepted the command, saying, “Your son will ensure that the Bing County troops will have no return!”
During these days, Liu Cong hadn’t had it easy. That clan member, Liu Yao, had somehow struck it rich, first capturing Chang’an and then taking Fengyi, experiencing unparalleled glory. He, on the other hand, hadn’t managed to shake off the shadow of the defeat in Shangdang. As a result, he fell behind. Now, taking advantage of the chaos in Bing County, if he could capture Jinyang in one stroke, it would be a great achievement!
Seeing his son’s resolute appearance, Liu Yuan laughed heartily, “As long as Hedong is taken, this old man will officially ascend to the throne and proclaim himself emperor! Heaven indeed favors me!”
Hearing Liu Yuan’s ambitious declaration, the courtiers all praised him. Now, there were two emperors in Jin, with the false dragons vying for supremacy. What harm was there in having one more true dragon?
The war in Hedong, despite the urgent news from Lishi, did not face any obstacles. Instead, it rushed more ferociously towards its intended prey!
Meanwhile, within Shangdang’s borders, a group of troops was silently advancing. The one leading them was none other than the general in command of the Shangdang garrison, Zhang He!
As the side force for this large army, their marching speed exceeded the expectations of many. Moreover, the direction they advanced in was unexpected. Instead of going to Lishi, they traversed Nie County, heading straight for Jingling. Jingling City was not far from Qi County and was also a city previously captured by the Xiongnu through city-slaughtering tactics.
While everyone’s attention was focused on Lishi, how many would be vigilant in defending these small cities in the “rear”?
Advertisement
Though they were all infantry, each of these soldiers was sturdy and vigorous, walking in perfect formation. Like a silent and dangerous pack of wolves, they advanced ceaselessly through the night toward their designated target!
The army of twenty thousand set out, appearing like an endless dragon from a distance. Soldiers and horses moved in unison, creating a majestic momentum. Beneath the commanding flag was the main tent guarded by the central forces. This time, Pei Dun chose not to ride in a carriage but on horseback. His handsome face, adorned with military attire and armor, exuded a commanding presence, highlighting the demeanor of a military leader.
After all, Pei Dun had studied military strategy. Despite the urgency, the march and deployment were quite appropriate. Scouts were positioned in the front, followed by the supply train, and various military commanders on the sides, ready to inquire about the situation at any time. From Jinyang to Lishi, even if the entire army consisted of infantry, it could reach there within four or five days. It wouldn’t be long before the enemy forces would line up to confront them.
“General Linghu, where is the vanguard now?” Riding on horseback, Pei Dun turned to ask.
The “General Linghu” he referred to was not Linghu Sheng but the cavalry general accompanying the central army, Linghu Kuang. Having just taken Qixian, he barely had time to catch his breath before being summoned to the commander’s tent. To be honest, Linghu Kuang felt a bit disappointed, but duty called, and with his uncle leading the army, he dared not slack off. He immediately reported, “Reporting to the commander, the vanguard has already reached Ping Tao. Tomorrow, we should enter the territory of Xi County.”
“Spread the order, set up camp in Ping Tao today, and launch a swift attack on Lishi tomorrow!” Pei Dun commanded.
They had been on the march for two days since leaving Jinyang. The commanders, riding horses, were already exhausted. However, the soldiers relied only on their two legs, and the remaining dozen miles would undoubtedly be even more challenging. Pei Dun was determined to attack Lishi and wouldn’t delay the march for too long. How could Linghu Kuang disobey orders? He had to relay the command to speed up the marching pace.
Tightening the reins slightly, Pei Dun turned to Liu Changshi beside him and asked, “When will the troops from Shangdang arrive?”
“The general is in a hurry this time, and the route from Shangdang is a bit far. It should take another two days. However, this way, the enemy will be less prepared,” Liu Changshi replied. He was not particularly worried about Governor Liang’s refusal to send troops. The benefits of the salt fields in Hedong were not something anyone could easily reject. With the army divided into two routes, it was even more unexpected.
Hearing this, Pei Dun seemed to breathe a sigh of relief and continued, “If the Xiongnu defend Lishi and refuse to come out, head straight for Pu Zi and catch them off guard!”
This time, his goal was not to capture Lishi but to approach the rear of the Xiongnu, disrupting their plans to attack Hedong. If they were to besiege a city, it would be a needless loss of manpower. However, it was best to fight within the territory of Bing County, making it more justifiable.
“General, don’t worry. The Xiongnu are not good at defending cities; they will definitely mobilize their forces in advance.” The fact that the Xiongnu excelled in offense but struggled in defense was well known. They were unlikely to stubbornly defend a city. As long as they approached Lishi, a battle would inevitably ensue.
This was precisely the outcome Pei Dun desired. Without saying more, he urged his horse forward.
Advertisement
The infantry in the front accelerated their marching pace, but the rear forces couldn’t keep up. Bing County had experienced frequent conflicts, and livestock, such as cattle and horses, were scarce. Therefore, the supply train in the rear mostly relied on manpower to pull the carts. Even for a short expedition, the amount of provisions needed for an army of twenty thousand was quite staggering. Not to mention the backup arrows, military equipment, and other supplies. The three thousand laborers had no room for slacking off.
They marched from dawn until dusk, and as they saw the lights of the main camp in the distance, these few miles seemed endless, making people feel despairingly exhausted.
“Quick! Pick up the pace!” The battalion commander loudly urged, “The main camp is just ahead! If you drag on, you’ll all be subject to military discipline!”
Hearing the officer’s shouts, everyone exerted extra effort, pushing and pulling the large carts beside them, staggering toward the front. After who knew how long, the officer finally gave the order to stop, allowing everyone to rest. These laborers were not entitled to stay in the military tents; finding a place to rest would suffice. Dinner was prepared, a meager clear soup without even pickled vegetables. Perhaps only the morning meal would be more substantial.
Enduring their anger in silence, everyone used wooden bowls to scoop up the porridge. It was already deep into autumn, and the weather was cooling, but sweat poured down like rain, seemingly unstoppable. Perhaps due to the oppressive journey, a young laborer couldn’t bear it any longer and whispered to the person beside him, “Zhao Da, why is this journey so rushed? Could it be they want us to attack the city and fill sandbags?”
Sometimes, even laborers had the task of storming a city. Charging into the enemy’s formation under a rain of arrows while carrying sandbags on their backs was truly terrifying. Transporting grain was one thing, but if they were really required to charge, how could these people survive?
“No, I heard someone say that this time we won’t be attacking a city. We’re going to fight the Xiongnu.” Zhao Da replied in a low voice, sounding quite decisive.
Hearing this, another person nearby hurriedly asked, “Fight the Xiongnu? What if they attack us? What if someone comes to raid our food and forage?”
Advertisement
“We have soldiers guarding! Moreover, even if the enemy comes, we have so many carts. We can surround the carts and hide inside; the enemy won’t be able to do anything to us.” Zhao Da answered confidently.
These words immediately quieted down those around them. As long as they could stay alive, and endure some hardship, they could manage. Thanks to having Zhao Da around, a person with strength and knowledge, perhaps even stronger than those overseeing officers! Without him, everyone didn’t know how panicked they might have become.
Hastily finishing the porridge, the others, exhausted and collapsed on the ground, quickly fell into a deep sleep. Only Zhao Da didn’t sleep early; instead, he quietly explored the camp. His movements were extremely light, and he skillfully chose his path, surprisingly avoiding the guards. After circling around for a long time, when he encountered another person dressed as a laborer, Zhao Da finally stopped. The two gestured a few times, didn’t speak, and then each turned away as if completing some task.
Returning to his own group, Zhao Da breathed a sigh of relief and lay down on the ground. Perhaps someone slept lightly, murmuring, “Where did you go?”
“To take a dump,” Zhao Da casually replied.
The person didn’t ask further and dozed off again. Zhao Da, however, didn’t immediately fall asleep. He carefully thought about what he had seen tonight before finally closing his eyes. These people, following General Yi’s orders, infiltrated the laborer ranks not just to reassure and protect the civilians. The real moment for them to exert their strength would come when the main force truly engaged in battle or even started to collapse.
Just look at that person named Pei, how many days could he persist?
※
“Your Majesty! Jinyang has mobilized a large army, and there’s an urgent report from Lishi!” After several horses had died from exhaustion, the battle report arrived at Liu Yuan’s desk from Bing County in just over a day.
Currently, Liu Yuan was leading the attack on Hedong, having already captured two cities in a row. However, the challenges that lay ahead included Wenxi and the capital of Hedong, Anyi. Dealing with tough nuts like the Pei and Wei clans would be more challenging.
Advertisement
In this critical moment of siege warfare, Liu Yuan was suddenly stunned when he heard the urgent news about Lishi. “Liang Zixi wants to attack Lishi?!”
Impossible! Didn’t Liu Hu already receive the news and start advancing toward Xinxing Commandery? With enemies lurking behind, how could Liang Zixi recklessly deploy forces to attack Lishi? What kind of state must Lishi be in now? If even Liu Hu had abandoned it, would Liang Zixi still bother to snatch it?
“Not Liang Zixi but the newly appointed peace general of Bing County, General Pei Dun, is leading the troops,” the soldier reported, bringing detailed information to Liu Yuan’s attention.
“Pei Dun!” Upon hearing this name, Liu Yuan immediately understood. They were coming to rescue Hedong! This kid from the Pei family was indeed audacious, daring to lead the Bing County troops to lift the siege on Hedong. Why didn’t Liang Zixi intervene?
After just a moment of contemplation, Liu Yuan decisively declared, “Order Liu Hu to immediately attack Jinyang!”
A newly appointed Bing County peace general could take such a daring risk to send troops to rescue Hedong. What did this signify? It meant that Jinyang’s political situation was unstable and feeble! If Liu Hu and the Xibei advanced massively now, they might be able to capture that sturdy city! If Jinyang fell, and Liang Zixi was killed, what significance would this Pei child have? Moreover, losing Jinyang would scatter the attacking Jin forces, presenting an excellent opportunity to capture Bing County!
“Xuan Ming, lead another five thousand cavalry to rush to Lishi! Make sure to crush Pei Dun’s forces!” Liu Yuan, without stopping his horse, also gave orders to his son, Liu Cong.
Who was Liu Cong? Instantly understanding the importance of this battle, he respectfully accepted the command, saying, “Your son will ensure that the Bing County troops will have no return!”
During these days, Liu Cong hadn’t had it easy. That clan member, Liu Yao, had somehow struck it rich, first capturing Chang’an and then taking Fengyi, experiencing unparalleled glory. He, on the other hand, hadn’t managed to shake off the shadow of the defeat in Shangdang. As a result, he fell behind. Now, taking advantage of the chaos in Bing County, if he could capture Jinyang in one stroke, it would be a great achievement!
Seeing his son’s resolute appearance, Liu Yuan laughed heartily, “As long as Hedong is taken, this old man will officially ascend to the throne and proclaim himself emperor! Heaven indeed favors me!”
Hearing Liu Yuan’s ambitious declaration, the courtiers all praised him. Now, there were two emperors in Jin, with the false dragons vying for supremacy. What harm was there in having one more true dragon?
The war in Hedong, despite the urgent news from Lishi, did not face any obstacles. Instead, it rushed more ferociously towards its intended prey!
Meanwhile, within Shangdang’s borders, a group of troops was silently advancing. The one leading them was none other than the general in command of the Shangdang garrison, Zhang He!
As the side force for this large army, their marching speed exceeded the expectations of many. Moreover, the direction they advanced in was unexpected. Instead of going to Lishi, they traversed Nie County, heading straight for Jingling. Jingling City was not far from Qi County and was also a city previously captured by the Xiongnu through city-slaughtering tactics.
While everyone’s attention was focused on Lishi, how many would be vigilant in defending these small cities in the “rear”?
Advertisement
Though they were all infantry, each of these soldiers was sturdy and vigorous, walking in perfect formation. Like a silent and dangerous pack of wolves, they advanced ceaselessly through the night toward their designated target!
