“General Yi, do we really not need to assist the Tuoba clan in attacking the old camp of the Bai tribe?” Sun Jiao approached Yiyan, his gaze piercing.
As a deputy general, this time he was responsible for luring the enemy from the front. With the Thunderbolt Camp, he managed to entangle more than two thousand Xianbei from the Bai tribe, consuming a day and a night. He even shot and killed nearly a thousand enemy soldiers, achieving remarkable results. Now, with infantry and cavalry converging and the loss of forces not significant, he couldn’t help but consider attacking the old camp of the Bai tribe. If they didn’t raid the camp, they could only seize some war horses and the crude weapons of the Xianbei, not gaining the maximum benefits. It would be different following the Tuoba clan and causing a stir; the harvest would definitely be several times greater than it is now, and it would also let those Tuoba soldiers witness the might of the soldiers from Shangdang.
Yiyan shook his head, “Our military mission is to lure the enemy, without unnecessary complications. Leave these matters to Adjutant Zhang to handle. Order to prepare, reorganize on the spot, and return to camp in half an hour.”
This battle is just the beginning of pacifying Yanmen. Afterward, they still need to eliminate nearby bandits. There’s no need to expend too much effort on the Bai tribe. Moreover, this military expedition involved a lot of political interests. The Tuoba clan is an allied force, and there’s no need for them to provide provisions. If they meddle and snatch the spoils of war from others, it might lead to trouble. The urgent matter now is not the meager benefits at hand but to recover lost territory and ensure the peace and well-being of the people. Yiyan would never confuse priorities.
Hearing the commander-in-chief’s words, Sun Jiao also set aside his slight arrogance and ordered to set up camp for rest and reorganization. After such a long battle, this command at least allowed the soldiers, whose spirits were stretched taut, to breathe a sigh of relief. The accompanying nurses began to treat the wounded, the severely injured had already been sent back to the main camp earlier, and now they were dealing with minor injuries, disinfecting and bandaging to prevent ulceration and infection.
Yiyan also walked to the creek, leading his horse. Adjacent to their campsite happened to be a branch of the Hutuo River, with clear water suitable for horses to drink. Both he and his beloved steed were covered in bloodstains and needed cleaning up. Using a brush, he casually scrubbed the horse’s mane stained with red and black. He patted the horse’s head, letting it rest and graze on the side. Yiyan squatted by the creek, washing away the dirt on his face and hands.
In this charge, the forces were indeed too few, especially with the added difficulty of assassinating the enemy commander. Yiyan had suffered several minor injuries, especially a facial wound from a flowing arrow. Although the bleeding had stopped after several wipes, a long cut remained on his left cheek, even breaking a large piece on his lip. After cleaning his face and looking at the reflection in the river, Yiyan couldn’t help himself. He took out some medicinal ointment and applied it to the wound.
As the commander-in-chief, Jiang Da had prepared high-quality medicinal ointments for him, faster in healing than the commonly used ones in the army, and less likely to leave scars. Normally, Yiyan was reluctant to use them, but he couldn’t ignore the facial injury. If it left a scar, wouldn’t it be repulsive to others?
With that small concern in mind, he finished tending to the wound on his face, carefully washed his hands, and, after confirming they were stain-free, turned and sat under a tree. Reaching into his chest, he pulled out a small oilcloth pouch.
After a fierce battle, there were hardly any intact areas on Yiyan’s body. Either soaked with sweat and blood or torn by blades and spears. However, this oilcloth pouch, placed behind the breastplate, was already the most well-defended place, wrapped in several layers of water-resistant fabric. The contents inside were well-protected, without any damage.
Seeing that cloth pouch, Yiyan’s expression relaxed, and even the eternal frost on his face seemed to melt a bit. Carefully, he uncovered the oilcloth and took out what was wrapped inside.
It was a letter. The province of Bing County had recently switched to using paper for official documents, and this letter was written on plain hemp paper specifically used by the provincial governor’s office. It looked ordinary, with no apparent uniqueness, and certainly shouldn’t be treated as a precious treasure by someone of Yiyan’s status.
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However, Yiyan unfolded the letter very gently. His fingers traced down the rough yellow paper, landing on the small characters at the end of the letter.
“In the midst of danger and the perils of war, take good care of yourself. May you return victorious.”
A seemingly ordinary expression of good wishes, whether directed from a commander to his officers or from a lord to his subjects, showed no unusual features. However, after receiving this letter, Yiyan treated it as if he had acquired a precious treasure.
This was the first time the lord had given such instructions. In previous battles, he had mostly been appointed in critical moments, fighting for the Liang family, for Shangdang, for Bing County, and engaging in inevitable battles. Even small tasks like suppressing bandits didn’t require much explicit instruction. However, this time, it was his first direct confrontation in a different province. Given this simple admonition, it seemed not entirely unnecessary.
However, Yiyan seemed to see something beyond those small characters. After such a long time, it was the first time he had been away from his lord for so long. Two months passed in the blink of an eye, and although Xinxing and Yanmen still required attention, his thoughts surged like the tide, and these entrusted words were like a boat. He, like a drowning person clutching at a piece of driftwood, seized onto these words and phrases.
Could it be that the lord also missed him a little? Beyond rejection and denial, was there a hint of loneliness and concern shared with him?
And this tiny speculation was enough to console him.
The nimble fingers that could wield a blade and draw a bowstring, slow and somewhat clumsy, traced over the ink characters several times. As if afraid this delicate paper couldn’t bear it, Yiyan carefully folded the oiled paper, placing the oilcloth pouch back into his bosom, snug against his heart. Leaning against the large tree behind him, he let out a gentle sigh, closing his eyes.
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“Commander, there’s news from the front. The troops of the Bai tribe have been defeated, and it’s said that many have fled in our direction. The Jin army warns us to be cautious and vigilant.” It was good news, but when the deputy general reported it, his brows furrowed tightly, showing apparent disbelief.
To be honest, Tuoba Yulu also found it hard to believe. The Bai tribe had sent five thousand soldiers this time! This group of White Wolves was known for their pride and toughness. They were a tribe that the Chanyu had expended a great deal of effort to conquer. How could they be considered a weak opponent? However, facing the soldiers from Bing County, they seemed as fragile as paper. It hadn’t even been two days since the initial engagement; how could they have completely defeated this group of bandits? Could it be some kind of trick?
Despite his doubts, he couldn’t dismiss the battle report: “Send a thousand men to guard the narrow passage. If you encounter fleeing enemy soldiers, eliminate them immediately.”
This wasn’t the usual style of the Tuoba clan. On the grasslands, the victorious side often treated the defeated as a form of war spoils. They were either used for bargaining or captured as slaves. However, the Bai tribe was different; they were originally slaves of the Tuoba clan. Now that they had become fugitives, a more severe measure was needed for punishment. With the Bai tribe as an example, other subordinate tribes would understand that loyalty to the Tuoba clan was the only way.
Tuoba Yulu was the nephew of Tuoba Yilu, with excellent political acumen. How could he not understand the importance of the situation? When it came to these White Wolves, there was certainly no room for mercy!
However, even though he thought so, were the five thousand troops of the Bai tribe truly defeated? If the soldiers from Bing County were indeed this formidable, the distribution of spoils from this battle might need to be reconsidered.
Although the attack on the old camp was not too difficult, dealing with the elderly, weak, women, and children, transporting tribal supplies, and even cleaning up the fleeing enemy soldiers still took quite some time for Tuoba Yulu. Three days later, in the Jin army’s main camp, when he met the gentle and harmless staff officer again, this Xianbei man greeted him with a friendly smile, “Adjutant Zhang, indeed your strategies are unparalleled. The eradication of the White Wolves owes much to you!”
As for that Jie person surnamed Yi, where he had gone was not something Tuoba Yulu bothered to inquire about. He directly attributed the credit to Adjutant Zhang.
Zhang Bin grinned, “I’m just a literary man, merely using my words. The real credit goes to all the generals here. The Bai tribe is now completely under General Tuoba’s command, isn’t it?”
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This statement seemed to carry some deeper meaning, and Tuoba Yulu responded with a hearty laugh, “More than three thousand women and children have already been sent back to the tribe.”
He only mentioned women and children, not the elderly or the strong and able-bodied, indicating that he had carried out a thorough massacre. Zhang Bin remained unruffled; instead, he clasped his hands and said, “Congratulations, General Tuoba. With such a great victory, I will report to the lord and request approval from the court! In a few days, there might be additional imperial honors.”
At these words, Tuoba Yulu’s eyebrows raised slightly. Although these people addressed him as “Chanyu,” Tuoba Yilu had not yet received formal recognition from the court. If there was an official recognition, his uncle unifying the three tribes would be just around the corner. This was no small favor.
Having helped suppress the rebellion and now seeking a title for his uncle, even the recent defeat of the five thousand soldiers in front of him was orchestrated by someone else. Wasn’t he gaining too much from this?
“In that case, I must thank the lord!” Tuoba Yulu said with a humble expression. “I’ve also seized some cattle, sheep, and horses from the old camp of the Bai tribe. Please accept them, Adjutant.”
Zhang Bin feigned surprise, “How can that be?”
“Of course, it can be! If it weren’t for the soldiers and horses from Bing County, this battle would not have been won so easily. These trifles are rightfully yours!” Tuoba Yulu answered magnanimously.
“Haha, General is indeed too polite.” Zhang Bin, how could he truly refuse? They were just extending a courtesy, and he smoothly accepted this batch of spoils.
Compared to gold, silver, and jewels, these livestock obviously aligned more with the interests of Bing County.
Having each received their benefits, the atmosphere became even more harmonious. Zhang Bin praised Tuoba Yulu a few more times, mentioned border trade matters, and then openly accepted the livestock. With both sides having other matters to attend to, there was no grand celebration. They each went their separate ways.
Regarding the breaking of the camp, Tuoba Yulu glanced at the steadfast Jin army camp, sighing lightly. It seemed that the soldiers and horses from Bing County were not to be underestimated. After returning, he must inform his uncle to make necessary preparations in the tribe.
The Xianbei people had left, but Zhang Bin and the others did not immediately return to Jinyang. The newly established Xinxing and Yanmen commanderies were just beginning, and there was much work to be done. Yiyan, in particular, showed no signs of slackening; he led the troops on a prolonged campaign to suppress bandits.
After more than half a month passed in this manner, a piece of news emerged from Hedong and instantly spread throughout the realm.
Liu Yuan officially declared himself emperor and relocated the capital to Pingyang!
“Is this truly the seal of the founding ancestor?” Liu Yuan had changed into the regalia representing an emperor. With a tall stature and a dignified appearance, he exuded an extraordinary presence in imperial attire.
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However, at this moment, his eyes gleamed as he stared at the jade seal on the table before him. This seal had been presented by Han officials after his enthronement. The term “founding ancestor” referred to Wang Mang, the relative who seized power during the Han Dynasty. After ascending the throne, Wang Mang changed the dynasty name to “Xin,” and the old seal bore the inscription “Protecting the New.” Now, three more characters were added to the seal, transforming it into “Protecting the New, Quanhai Guang.”
Liu Yuan, with the style name Yuanhai, heard that the Fenshui River yielded the seal, and now he saw additional characters on the seal. How could he not be overjoyed? Wasn’t this a sign from the heavens, a celestial congratulations?
Even someone as mature and reserved as Liu Yuan, who had spent half his life in seclusion, couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride upon ascending the imperial throne. After caressing the jade seal, he declared loudly, “Since the Fenshui River offered a divine sign, the new dynasty shall adopt the reign title ‘He Rui’!”
None of the courtiers below would dare to refute their sovereign’s disposition, and they immediately chorused in congratulation. Liu Yuan, satisfied with himself, looked at the ministers below and spoke with gusto, “Now that Han has been firmly established, we shall once again campaign against the Jin state!”
This is the overarching theme. One mountain cannot accommodate two tigers, let alone three emperors. As long as the Sima clan exists, Luoyang remains a thorn in Liu Yuan’s side, a constant source of irritation!
“I am willing to go!” “Your child is willing to lead the troops to pacify Luoyang!”
Several voices offering their services echoed. Liu Yuan chuckled, “The talents of the Imperial Han are abundant, and the army is strong. Within three years, Luoyang shall be pacified!”
Like a tiger’s roar, this resolute declaration reverberated through the spacious palace. Cheers followed, blending with those bold words, creating an unceasing echo in the air.
“General Yi, do we really not need to assist the Tuoba clan in attacking the old camp of the Bai tribe?” Sun Jiao approached Yiyan, his gaze piercing.
As a deputy general, this time he was responsible for luring the enemy from the front. With the Thunderbolt Camp, he managed to entangle more than two thousand Xianbei from the Bai tribe, consuming a day and a night. He even shot and killed nearly a thousand enemy soldiers, achieving remarkable results. Now, with infantry and cavalry converging and the loss of forces not significant, he couldn’t help but consider attacking the old camp of the Bai tribe. If they didn’t raid the camp, they could only seize some war horses and the crude weapons of the Xianbei, not gaining the maximum benefits. It would be different following the Tuoba clan and causing a stir; the harvest would definitely be several times greater than it is now, and it would also let those Tuoba soldiers witness the might of the soldiers from Shangdang.
Yiyan shook his head, “Our military mission is to lure the enemy, without unnecessary complications. Leave these matters to Adjutant Zhang to handle. Order to prepare, reorganize on the spot, and return to camp in half an hour.”
This battle is just the beginning of pacifying Yanmen. Afterward, they still need to eliminate nearby bandits. There’s no need to expend too much effort on the Bai tribe. Moreover, this military expedition involved a lot of political interests. The Tuoba clan is an allied force, and there’s no need for them to provide provisions. If they meddle and snatch the spoils of war from others, it might lead to trouble. The urgent matter now is not the meager benefits at hand but to recover lost territory and ensure the peace and well-being of the people. Yiyan would never confuse priorities.
Hearing the commander-in-chief’s words, Sun Jiao also set aside his slight arrogance and ordered to set up camp for rest and reorganization. After such a long battle, this command at least allowed the soldiers, whose spirits were stretched taut, to breathe a sigh of relief. The accompanying nurses began to treat the wounded, the severely injured had already been sent back to the main camp earlier, and now they were dealing with minor injuries, disinfecting and bandaging to prevent ulceration and infection.
Yiyan also walked to the creek, leading his horse. Adjacent to their campsite happened to be a branch of the Hutuo River, with clear water suitable for horses to drink. Both he and his beloved steed were covered in bloodstains and needed cleaning up. Using a brush, he casually scrubbed the horse’s mane stained with red and black. He patted the horse’s head, letting it rest and graze on the side. Yiyan squatted by the creek, washing away the dirt on his face and hands.
In this charge, the forces were indeed too few, especially with the added difficulty of assassinating the enemy commander. Yiyan had suffered several minor injuries, especially a facial wound from a flowing arrow. Although the bleeding had stopped after several wipes, a long cut remained on his left cheek, even breaking a large piece on his lip. After cleaning his face and looking at the reflection in the river, Yiyan couldn’t help himself. He took out some medicinal ointment and applied it to the wound.
As the commander-in-chief, Jiang Da had prepared high-quality medicinal ointments for him, faster in healing than the commonly used ones in the army, and less likely to leave scars. Normally, Yiyan was reluctant to use them, but he couldn’t ignore the facial injury. If it left a scar, wouldn’t it be repulsive to others?
With that small concern in mind, he finished tending to the wound on his face, carefully washed his hands, and, after confirming they were stain-free, turned and sat under a tree. Reaching into his chest, he pulled out a small oilcloth pouch.
After a fierce battle, there were hardly any intact areas on Yiyan’s body. Either soaked with sweat and blood or torn by blades and spears. However, this oilcloth pouch, placed behind the breastplate, was already the most well-defended place, wrapped in several layers of water-resistant fabric. The contents inside were well-protected, without any damage.
Seeing that cloth pouch, Yiyan’s expression relaxed, and even the eternal frost on his face seemed to melt a bit. Carefully, he uncovered the oilcloth and took out what was wrapped inside.
It was a letter. The province of Bing County had recently switched to using paper for official documents, and this letter was written on plain hemp paper specifically used by the provincial governor’s office. It looked ordinary, with no apparent uniqueness, and certainly shouldn’t be treated as a precious treasure by someone of Yiyan’s status.
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However, Yiyan unfolded the letter very gently. His fingers traced down the rough yellow paper, landing on the small characters at the end of the letter.
“In the midst of danger and the perils of war, take good care of yourself. May you return victorious.”
A seemingly ordinary expression of good wishes, whether directed from a commander to his officers or from a lord to his subjects, showed no unusual features. However, after receiving this letter, Yiyan treated it as if he had acquired a precious treasure.
This was the first time the lord had given such instructions. In previous battles, he had mostly been appointed in critical moments, fighting for the Liang family, for Shangdang, for Bing County, and engaging in inevitable battles. Even small tasks like suppressing bandits didn’t require much explicit instruction. However, this time, it was his first direct confrontation in a different province. Given this simple admonition, it seemed not entirely unnecessary.
However, Yiyan seemed to see something beyond those small characters. After such a long time, it was the first time he had been away from his lord for so long. Two months passed in the blink of an eye, and although Xinxing and Yanmen still required attention, his thoughts surged like the tide, and these entrusted words were like a boat. He, like a drowning person clutching at a piece of driftwood, seized onto these words and phrases.
Could it be that the lord also missed him a little? Beyond rejection and denial, was there a hint of loneliness and concern shared with him?
And this tiny speculation was enough to console him.
The nimble fingers that could wield a blade and draw a bowstring, slow and somewhat clumsy, traced over the ink characters several times. As if afraid this delicate paper couldn’t bear it, Yiyan carefully folded the oiled paper, placing the oilcloth pouch back into his bosom, snug against his heart. Leaning against the large tree behind him, he let out a gentle sigh, closing his eyes.
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※
“Commander, there’s news from the front. The troops of the Bai tribe have been defeated, and it’s said that many have fled in our direction. The Jin army warns us to be cautious and vigilant.” It was good news, but when the deputy general reported it, his brows furrowed tightly, showing apparent disbelief.
To be honest, Tuoba Yulu also found it hard to believe. The Bai tribe had sent five thousand soldiers this time! This group of White Wolves was known for their pride and toughness. They were a tribe that the Chanyu had expended a great deal of effort to conquer. How could they be considered a weak opponent? However, facing the soldiers from Bing County, they seemed as fragile as paper. It hadn’t even been two days since the initial engagement; how could they have completely defeated this group of bandits? Could it be some kind of trick?
Despite his doubts, he couldn’t dismiss the battle report: “Send a thousand men to guard the narrow passage. If you encounter fleeing enemy soldiers, eliminate them immediately.”
This wasn’t the usual style of the Tuoba clan. On the grasslands, the victorious side often treated the defeated as a form of war spoils. They were either used for bargaining or captured as slaves. However, the Bai tribe was different; they were originally slaves of the Tuoba clan. Now that they had become fugitives, a more severe measure was needed for punishment. With the Bai tribe as an example, other subordinate tribes would understand that loyalty to the Tuoba clan was the only way.
Tuoba Yulu was the nephew of Tuoba Yilu, with excellent political acumen. How could he not understand the importance of the situation? When it came to these White Wolves, there was certainly no room for mercy!
However, even though he thought so, were the five thousand troops of the Bai tribe truly defeated? If the soldiers from Bing County were indeed this formidable, the distribution of spoils from this battle might need to be reconsidered.
Although the attack on the old camp was not too difficult, dealing with the elderly, weak, women, and children, transporting tribal supplies, and even cleaning up the fleeing enemy soldiers still took quite some time for Tuoba Yulu. Three days later, in the Jin army’s main camp, when he met the gentle and harmless staff officer again, this Xianbei man greeted him with a friendly smile, “Adjutant Zhang, indeed your strategies are unparalleled. The eradication of the White Wolves owes much to you!”
As for that Jie person surnamed Yi, where he had gone was not something Tuoba Yulu bothered to inquire about. He directly attributed the credit to Adjutant Zhang.
Zhang Bin grinned, “I’m just a literary man, merely using my words. The real credit goes to all the generals here. The Bai tribe is now completely under General Tuoba’s command, isn’t it?”
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This statement seemed to carry some deeper meaning, and Tuoba Yulu responded with a hearty laugh, “More than three thousand women and children have already been sent back to the tribe.”
He only mentioned women and children, not the elderly or the strong and able-bodied, indicating that he had carried out a thorough massacre. Zhang Bin remained unruffled; instead, he clasped his hands and said, “Congratulations, General Tuoba. With such a great victory, I will report to the lord and request approval from the court! In a few days, there might be additional imperial honors.”
At these words, Tuoba Yulu’s eyebrows raised slightly. Although these people addressed him as “Chanyu,” Tuoba Yilu had not yet received formal recognition from the court. If there was an official recognition, his uncle unifying the three tribes would be just around the corner. This was no small favor.
Having helped suppress the rebellion and now seeking a title for his uncle, even the recent defeat of the five thousand soldiers in front of him was orchestrated by someone else. Wasn’t he gaining too much from this?
“In that case, I must thank the lord!” Tuoba Yulu said with a humble expression. “I’ve also seized some cattle, sheep, and horses from the old camp of the Bai tribe. Please accept them, Adjutant.”
Zhang Bin feigned surprise, “How can that be?”
“Of course, it can be! If it weren’t for the soldiers and horses from Bing County, this battle would not have been won so easily. These trifles are rightfully yours!” Tuoba Yulu answered magnanimously.
“Haha, General is indeed too polite.” Zhang Bin, how could he truly refuse? They were just extending a courtesy, and he smoothly accepted this batch of spoils.
Compared to gold, silver, and jewels, these livestock obviously aligned more with the interests of Bing County.
Having each received their benefits, the atmosphere became even more harmonious. Zhang Bin praised Tuoba Yulu a few more times, mentioned border trade matters, and then openly accepted the livestock. With both sides having other matters to attend to, there was no grand celebration. They each went their separate ways.
Regarding the breaking of the camp, Tuoba Yulu glanced at the steadfast Jin army camp, sighing lightly. It seemed that the soldiers and horses from Bing County were not to be underestimated. After returning, he must inform his uncle to make necessary preparations in the tribe.
The Xianbei people had left, but Zhang Bin and the others did not immediately return to Jinyang. The newly established Xinxing and Yanmen commanderies were just beginning, and there was much work to be done. Yiyan, in particular, showed no signs of slackening; he led the troops on a prolonged campaign to suppress bandits.
After more than half a month passed in this manner, a piece of news emerged from Hedong and instantly spread throughout the realm.
Liu Yuan officially declared himself emperor and relocated the capital to Pingyang!
“Is this truly the seal of the founding ancestor?” Liu Yuan had changed into the regalia representing an emperor. With a tall stature and a dignified appearance, he exuded an extraordinary presence in imperial attire.
Advertisement
However, at this moment, his eyes gleamed as he stared at the jade seal on the table before him. This seal had been presented by Han officials after his enthronement. The term “founding ancestor” referred to Wang Mang, the relative who seized power during the Han Dynasty. After ascending the throne, Wang Mang changed the dynasty name to “Xin,” and the old seal bore the inscription “Protecting the New.” Now, three more characters were added to the seal, transforming it into “Protecting the New, Quanhai Guang.”
Liu Yuan, with the style name Yuanhai, heard that the Fenshui River yielded the seal, and now he saw additional characters on the seal. How could he not be overjoyed? Wasn’t this a sign from the heavens, a celestial congratulations?
Even someone as mature and reserved as Liu Yuan, who had spent half his life in seclusion, couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride upon ascending the imperial throne. After caressing the jade seal, he declared loudly, “Since the Fenshui River offered a divine sign, the new dynasty shall adopt the reign title ‘He Rui’!”
None of the courtiers below would dare to refute their sovereign’s disposition, and they immediately chorused in congratulation. Liu Yuan, satisfied with himself, looked at the ministers below and spoke with gusto, “Now that Han has been firmly established, we shall once again campaign against the Jin state!”
This is the overarching theme. One mountain cannot accommodate two tigers, let alone three emperors. As long as the Sima clan exists, Luoyang remains a thorn in Liu Yuan’s side, a constant source of irritation!
“I am willing to go!” “Your child is willing to lead the troops to pacify Luoyang!”
Several voices offering their services echoed. Liu Yuan chuckled, “The talents of the Imperial Han are abundant, and the army is strong. Within three years, Luoyang shall be pacified!”
Like a tiger’s roar, this resolute declaration reverberated through the spacious palace. Cheers followed, blending with those bold words, creating an unceasing echo in the air.
