War is looming again. Seeing the letter from Cui Ji, Liang Feng knew it was not good. Shangdang is the key route for the Xiongnu to advance eastward into the Han territory. Now that Liu Yuan has mobilized a large army, how could they possibly bypass this crucial location? However, what Liang Feng did not anticipate was that, even in this dire situation, Sima Yue didn’t forget to eliminate Sima Ying first, ensuring his own stability. The Sima family truly excels in the art of “stabilizing the internal situation before dealing with external threats.”
“How much grain and fodder do we have in Shangdang?” Liang Feng inquired, lifting his gaze.
Duan Qin’s expression wasn’t too optimistic. “Just enough for spring planting; we’ve already exhausted the surplus.”
In just half a year, the province of Bing County had fought two major battles. It was fortunate that Pei Dun had managed to obtain some grain and fodder from Sima Yue, allowing them to use the remaining reserves to deploy troops to the Bai tribe, pacify the emerging regions, and control Yanmen. But how could this meager supply of food sustain them? Shangdang had already provided a considerable amount of grain to Jinyang and even Xinxing. At the same time, it had the significant responsibility of accommodating refugees. The food supply was truly stretched to its limits, and with another battle looming, it seemed unlikely they could sustain spring planting next year!
Indeed! After a brief contemplation, Liang Feng said, “Immediately send a letter to Yue Ping, instructing Wen Tai to focus on winter farming. Next year’s summer harvest will most likely depend heavily on Yue Ping. Develop more farmland in Yanmen and Xinxing as well. If we can’t plant crops, then raise more livestock!”
With the Xiongnu-Han conflict escalating, both Shangdang and Taiyuan are bound to face challenges. On the contrary, counties and regions like Yueping and Xinxing in the rear can focus on developing grain production. The recent business downturn is evident; even popular products like white porcelain and glass from the Liang household are starting to languish in sales. The frequent conflicts in the northern regions make it difficult for anyone to spare the resources to spend on such luxuries. Liquor production is also restrained; it consumes grains, and having enough to exchange for salt is considered fortunate.
However, Duan Qin didn’t immediately agree. Instead, he whispered, “Lord, distant water won’t quench near thirst. If there’s a shortage of grain and fodder, we should request provisions from Luoyang!”
He mentioned Luoyang, not the court. Liang Feng raised an eyebrow, “Bypassing the Prime Minister?”
He wasn’t slow to react. Since Sima Yue was currently not in Luoyang, when Duan Qin referred to Luoyang, he could only mean the Emperor. Sima Yue had just deployed troops, bypassing him as the Prime Minister, directly seeking provisions from the Emperor. Wouldn’t that provoke the other party?
Duan Qin nodded slightly, “The Emperor is intelligent, but the Prime Minister is suspicious. We should wait until the chaos caused by the false Emperor in Chengdu is settled. Luoyang might face internal turmoil again. Since the Grand Commandant doesn’t favor our Lord, why not take a different path?”
This move aimed to test the Emperor’s reaction and determination, to see if he intended to resist the influential minister controlling the court. With the Xiongnu forces mobilizing, it was the perfect opportunity! If there’s a shortage of provisions, Luoyang could be in imminent danger. Even if Sima Yue controlled the court, the subordinates shouldn’t bypass Luoyang and go to Jing County to seek his approval. Not only would it be against protocol, but the urgency of the military situation couldn’t afford any delays. Would Liang Feng, at this moment, still fear Sima Yue’s resentment?
Looking at Duan Qin’s piercing gaze, Liang Feng took a gentle breath. Placing bets on the young emperor was undoubtedly the beginning of a power struggle. Using the emperor’s authority to command the vassals was a tradition that had persisted for hundreds of years since the Wei and Jin dynasties. And indeed, he had the conditions for it. Wasn’t it the young emperor himself who had invited him to Luoyang initially?
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Liang Feng was well aware that his close advisors had changed their attitudes. Since the day Zhang Bin spoke of chasing deer, the hope in Duan Qin’s eyes couldn’t be concealed any longer. It was no longer just one person’s extravagant words but had become a hidden desire in many people’s hearts. As the leader anticipated by the masses, carrying the heavy responsibility of unification, had he truly prepared himself for the pursuit of power and dominance over the Central Plains?
After a prolonged silence, Liang Feng nodded slowly, “I will write a letter and request provisions from the Emperor.”
A joyous expression appeared on Duan Qin’s face as he bowed deeply, “Lord, you will surely repel the Xiongnu and safeguard Luoyang!”
This was no longer just a matter concerning Shangdang. Liang Feng’s lips moved, and finally, he said, “Summon Boyuan and others back; let’s defend Shangdang.”
※
When they left Jinyang, the vegetation was still lush green, but now it was all withered and desolate. However, Yiyan did not get sentimental about the scene. In his eyes, there was no winter scenery; only one figure remained.
“Lord, you praise me too much. If things went smoothly against the rebels, it’s all thanks to General Yi’s brilliant military tactics,” Zhang Bin responded with a smile as Liang Feng helped him up.
Today, the two distinguished heroes returned to Jinyang, and Liang Feng personally welcomed them. Zhang Bin was the strategist and also a recent addition, so naturally, Liang Feng helped him first. Upon hearing these words, Liang Feng turned his head and looked at Yiyan, who was kneeling on one knee beside him.
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In the unrevealed three months, that person seemed to have grown taller. Clad in heavy armor, there was no trace of bulkiness; instead, it highlighted his broad shoulders and long legs, exuding a commanding presence. On his face, there was a shallow scar that ran from the nostril, across the left cheek. It wasn’t conspicuous, but it added a touch of sternness to his handsome and sharp features. His grey-blue eyes were fixed firmly on himself as if trying to make up for the regret of not seeing each other for nearly a hundred days.
Their gazes inadvertently collided, and Liang Feng’s heart suddenly trembled. Quickly suppressing any inappropriate thoughts, he smiled and extended his hand, “Boyuan, your journey must have been exhausting. Have you sustained any injuries?”
His hand didn’t quite reach Yiyan’s arm; he merely made a gesture of assistance. Yiyan’s grey-blue eyes darkened slightly, and he stood up gracefully, “Just a few insignificant foes, nothing to trouble the lord.”
The exchange between the two sounded perfectly normal, and those around paid it no heed. Liang Feng, not wanting to reveal anything in front of others, turned and led the crowd into the Governor’s residence.
Once seated at the table, Liang Feng spoke, “With Liu Yuan declaring himself emperor, Luoyang faces another uprising. The burden of leading the army to suppress Prince Chengdu falls on the Grand Commandant, and the defense of the capital is entrusted to the neighboring provinces. Hongnong has already set up a large camp, but Shangdang is a crucial route into Luoyang, and the Xiongnu will certainly not let it go easily. It seems we are in for another fierce battle.”
Zhang Bin had heard about this matter but remained composed, “I’ve heard that Lord has recently acquired many Xiongnu forces from various tribes, leaving Lishi likely vulnerable. If the Xiongnu can’t advance along the Western River, all we need to do is strictly guard the line at Gaodu.”
What he said aligned with Liang Feng’s longstanding plan. The impact of the locust plague in Western River wouldn’t fade away in a short time. Instead of capturing Western River, it was better to treat it as a strategic buffer zone, separating their territory from the Xiongnu’s. If there were to be a confrontation with the enemy, it could happen near the Western River, preventing harm to the people under their jurisdiction.
For this goal, Gu County in Western River was also taken. This further blocked the road from the Western River to Shangdang. Consequently, attacking Shangdang would likely require crossing the Qin River and heading straight for Gaodu. However, just taking the two passes near Gaodu wasn’t enough; they also needed to capture Huguan to ensure the road to Luoyang. The difficulty of this task was considerable.
“Indeed, we must fight this battle and make the Xiongnu feel the pain. Even if they aim to attack Luoyang, they absolutely cannot dispatch troops from Shangdang,” Liang Feng affirmed.
Shangdang was his hometown, and the Liang residence was near Gaodu. He couldn’t allow those bandits to come and go as they pleased. If he could resolve it once and for all, that would be the best solution!
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Zhang Bin agreed, “Why not borrow some troops from the Tuoba tribe again? With the main force from Shangdang and the support of the Tuoba tribe, we can catch the Xiongnu off guard!”
“I have already sent a letter to Luoyang, requesting provisions from the Emperor. At the same time, I have reported the matter of the Bai Tribe to the court. We should be able to secure an honorary title for Chanyu.” Liang Feng also followed Zhang Bin’s suggestion, combining the request for provisions with presenting accomplishments to the court, obtaining an honorary title should be relatively easy.
Zhang Bin didn’t mind the latter part of the statement but instead brightened, “Lord, you’ve requested provisions from the Emperor?! Brilliant strategy!”
Without anyone’s reminder, he understood the implications of this tactic. This was indeed a clever move! Not only could it sow discord between the young emperor and Sima Yue, further gaining the Emperor’s trust, but it could also use the pretext of safeguarding Luoyang to resolve the urgent situation in Shangdang, leaving Sima Yue unable to vent his anger. Wasn’t this a brilliant strategy?
Liang Feng smiled faintly, “This is the idea of Si Ruo.”
Zhang Bin smiled and gestured to Duan Qin, “Master Duan, brilliant strategy!”
Faced with Zhang Bin’s obvious flattery, Duan Qin also felt quite pleased and returned a polite smile. Although the two hadn’t truly worked together, they had developed some tacit understanding, and there was no sign of rivalry between them. Liang Feng was quite happy about this. If the strategists started plotting against each other, it would be a headache. In the past, Yuan Shao’s advisors, Shen Pei and Guo Tu, were not on good terms. Each supported a different young master, and it eventually escalated into a conflict between brothers, leading to the downfall of the mighty Yuan family. Such open and covert struggles were much more serious than a fire in the backyard.
Having made up his mind, Liang Feng continued, “However, how should we express our gratitude to the Tuoba tribe for their assistance this time?”
He always remained wary of the Tuoba Xianbei. They could be used but must not be nurtured. Rewarding them with gold, silver, or provisions was inappropriate, and military equipment, especially iron tools, was out of the question. Raising a potential threat was not something a wise person would do.
Zhang Bin smiled, “Lord, don’t worry. I’ve already thought of a plan. After the previous promotion, we can use this opportunity to help them obtain a fief. The Tuoba tribe resides near Canhe Slope, not far from Dai Commandery. How about granting them that piece of land?”
Dai Commandery? Liang Feng raised an eyebrow. Dai Commandery was not in Bing County but in You County. This was clearly an attempt to create conflict between Wang Jun and the Tuoba tribe. Would the Tuoba tribe refuse such a good piece of land as Dai Commandery? Would Wang Jun be willing to relinquish control of his territory? Additionally, the Xianbei under the influence of Wang Jun might also cause trouble. Wasn’t this a case of harming two birds with one stone?
“Very well.” Liang Feng wouldn’t show any mercy to Wang Jun. He immediately nodded in agreement.
With a rough plan in place, the three then discussed political matters and military situations before turning their attention to the strategy for the attack and defense of Shangdang. This required a brief overview of tactical ideas and vulnerable points, with the specific tactics to be decided by Yiyan.
Yiyan, who had been quiet throughout, listened to the discussion. When it was his turn, he spoke briefly. However, after the general plan was settled, he suddenly said, “Should we bring the Lord’s son to Jinyang?”
This wasn’t a suggestion from the strategists because they understood that evacuating Liang Feng’s son, Liang Rong, to Jinyang in a hurry would only undermine the morale of the troops. Yiyan was not a strategist; he was concerned only about Liang Feng’s feelings. Liang Rong was the only son guarded in Liang Feng’s palm. If he was placed in a chaotic war zone, wouldn’t it add to Liang Feng’s worries?
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Although the statement seemed abrupt, Liang Feng easily understood what Yiyan was thinking. His lips moved slightly before he said, “No harm. With Boyuan here, Rong’er will surely be safe.”
For any military commander, such assurance was worth more than countless praises. Yet, Yiyan felt that there was something more to this statement, just like the phrase he had seen in the letter. Suppressing the agitation in his heart, he bowed to the person in front of him, “I will not fail to live up to the Lord’s trust.”
War is looming again. Seeing the letter from Cui Ji, Liang Feng knew it was not good. Shangdang is the key route for the Xiongnu to advance eastward into the Han territory. Now that Liu Yuan has mobilized a large army, how could they possibly bypass this crucial location? However, what Liang Feng did not anticipate was that, even in this dire situation, Sima Yue didn’t forget to eliminate Sima Ying first, ensuring his own stability. The Sima family truly excels in the art of “stabilizing the internal situation before dealing with external threats.”
“How much grain and fodder do we have in Shangdang?” Liang Feng inquired, lifting his gaze.
Duan Qin’s expression wasn’t too optimistic. “Just enough for spring planting; we’ve already exhausted the surplus.”
In just half a year, the province of Bing County had fought two major battles. It was fortunate that Pei Dun had managed to obtain some grain and fodder from Sima Yue, allowing them to use the remaining reserves to deploy troops to the Bai tribe, pacify the emerging regions, and control Yanmen. But how could this meager supply of food sustain them? Shangdang had already provided a considerable amount of grain to Jinyang and even Xinxing. At the same time, it had the significant responsibility of accommodating refugees. The food supply was truly stretched to its limits, and with another battle looming, it seemed unlikely they could sustain spring planting next year!
Indeed! After a brief contemplation, Liang Feng said, “Immediately send a letter to Yue Ping, instructing Wen Tai to focus on winter farming. Next year’s summer harvest will most likely depend heavily on Yue Ping. Develop more farmland in Yanmen and Xinxing as well. If we can’t plant crops, then raise more livestock!”
With the Xiongnu-Han conflict escalating, both Shangdang and Taiyuan are bound to face challenges. On the contrary, counties and regions like Yueping and Xinxing in the rear can focus on developing grain production. The recent business downturn is evident; even popular products like white porcelain and glass from the Liang household are starting to languish in sales. The frequent conflicts in the northern regions make it difficult for anyone to spare the resources to spend on such luxuries. Liquor production is also restrained; it consumes grains, and having enough to exchange for salt is considered fortunate.
However, Duan Qin didn’t immediately agree. Instead, he whispered, “Lord, distant water won’t quench near thirst. If there’s a shortage of grain and fodder, we should request provisions from Luoyang!”
He mentioned Luoyang, not the court. Liang Feng raised an eyebrow, “Bypassing the Prime Minister?”
He wasn’t slow to react. Since Sima Yue was currently not in Luoyang, when Duan Qin referred to Luoyang, he could only mean the Emperor. Sima Yue had just deployed troops, bypassing him as the Prime Minister, directly seeking provisions from the Emperor. Wouldn’t that provoke the other party?
Duan Qin nodded slightly, “The Emperor is intelligent, but the Prime Minister is suspicious. We should wait until the chaos caused by the false Emperor in Chengdu is settled. Luoyang might face internal turmoil again. Since the Grand Commandant doesn’t favor our Lord, why not take a different path?”
This move aimed to test the Emperor’s reaction and determination, to see if he intended to resist the influential minister controlling the court. With the Xiongnu forces mobilizing, it was the perfect opportunity! If there’s a shortage of provisions, Luoyang could be in imminent danger. Even if Sima Yue controlled the court, the subordinates shouldn’t bypass Luoyang and go to Jing County to seek his approval. Not only would it be against protocol, but the urgency of the military situation couldn’t afford any delays. Would Liang Feng, at this moment, still fear Sima Yue’s resentment?
Looking at Duan Qin’s piercing gaze, Liang Feng took a gentle breath. Placing bets on the young emperor was undoubtedly the beginning of a power struggle. Using the emperor’s authority to command the vassals was a tradition that had persisted for hundreds of years since the Wei and Jin dynasties. And indeed, he had the conditions for it. Wasn’t it the young emperor himself who had invited him to Luoyang initially?
Advertisement
Liang Feng was well aware that his close advisors had changed their attitudes. Since the day Zhang Bin spoke of chasing deer, the hope in Duan Qin’s eyes couldn’t be concealed any longer. It was no longer just one person’s extravagant words but had become a hidden desire in many people’s hearts. As the leader anticipated by the masses, carrying the heavy responsibility of unification, had he truly prepared himself for the pursuit of power and dominance over the Central Plains?
After a prolonged silence, Liang Feng nodded slowly, “I will write a letter and request provisions from the Emperor.”
A joyous expression appeared on Duan Qin’s face as he bowed deeply, “Lord, you will surely repel the Xiongnu and safeguard Luoyang!”
This was no longer just a matter concerning Shangdang. Liang Feng’s lips moved, and finally, he said, “Summon Boyuan and others back; let’s defend Shangdang.”
※
When they left Jinyang, the vegetation was still lush green, but now it was all withered and desolate. However, Yiyan did not get sentimental about the scene. In his eyes, there was no winter scenery; only one figure remained.
“Lord, you praise me too much. If things went smoothly against the rebels, it’s all thanks to General Yi’s brilliant military tactics,” Zhang Bin responded with a smile as Liang Feng helped him up.
Today, the two distinguished heroes returned to Jinyang, and Liang Feng personally welcomed them. Zhang Bin was the strategist and also a recent addition, so naturally, Liang Feng helped him first. Upon hearing these words, Liang Feng turned his head and looked at Yiyan, who was kneeling on one knee beside him.
Advertisement
In the unrevealed three months, that person seemed to have grown taller. Clad in heavy armor, there was no trace of bulkiness; instead, it highlighted his broad shoulders and long legs, exuding a commanding presence. On his face, there was a shallow scar that ran from the nostril, across the left cheek. It wasn’t conspicuous, but it added a touch of sternness to his handsome and sharp features. His grey-blue eyes were fixed firmly on himself as if trying to make up for the regret of not seeing each other for nearly a hundred days.
Their gazes inadvertently collided, and Liang Feng’s heart suddenly trembled. Quickly suppressing any inappropriate thoughts, he smiled and extended his hand, “Boyuan, your journey must have been exhausting. Have you sustained any injuries?”
His hand didn’t quite reach Yiyan’s arm; he merely made a gesture of assistance. Yiyan’s grey-blue eyes darkened slightly, and he stood up gracefully, “Just a few insignificant foes, nothing to trouble the lord.”
The exchange between the two sounded perfectly normal, and those around paid it no heed. Liang Feng, not wanting to reveal anything in front of others, turned and led the crowd into the Governor’s residence.
Once seated at the table, Liang Feng spoke, “With Liu Yuan declaring himself emperor, Luoyang faces another uprising. The burden of leading the army to suppress Prince Chengdu falls on the Grand Commandant, and the defense of the capital is entrusted to the neighboring provinces. Hongnong has already set up a large camp, but Shangdang is a crucial route into Luoyang, and the Xiongnu will certainly not let it go easily. It seems we are in for another fierce battle.”
Zhang Bin had heard about this matter but remained composed, “I’ve heard that Lord has recently acquired many Xiongnu forces from various tribes, leaving Lishi likely vulnerable. If the Xiongnu can’t advance along the Western River, all we need to do is strictly guard the line at Gaodu.”
What he said aligned with Liang Feng’s longstanding plan. The impact of the locust plague in Western River wouldn’t fade away in a short time. Instead of capturing Western River, it was better to treat it as a strategic buffer zone, separating their territory from the Xiongnu’s. If there were to be a confrontation with the enemy, it could happen near the Western River, preventing harm to the people under their jurisdiction.
For this goal, Gu County in Western River was also taken. This further blocked the road from the Western River to Shangdang. Consequently, attacking Shangdang would likely require crossing the Qin River and heading straight for Gaodu. However, just taking the two passes near Gaodu wasn’t enough; they also needed to capture Huguan to ensure the road to Luoyang. The difficulty of this task was considerable.
“Indeed, we must fight this battle and make the Xiongnu feel the pain. Even if they aim to attack Luoyang, they absolutely cannot dispatch troops from Shangdang,” Liang Feng affirmed.
Shangdang was his hometown, and the Liang residence was near Gaodu. He couldn’t allow those bandits to come and go as they pleased. If he could resolve it once and for all, that would be the best solution!
Advertisement
Zhang Bin agreed, “Why not borrow some troops from the Tuoba tribe again? With the main force from Shangdang and the support of the Tuoba tribe, we can catch the Xiongnu off guard!”
“I have already sent a letter to Luoyang, requesting provisions from the Emperor. At the same time, I have reported the matter of the Bai Tribe to the court. We should be able to secure an honorary title for Chanyu.” Liang Feng also followed Zhang Bin’s suggestion, combining the request for provisions with presenting accomplishments to the court, obtaining an honorary title should be relatively easy.
Zhang Bin didn’t mind the latter part of the statement but instead brightened, “Lord, you’ve requested provisions from the Emperor?! Brilliant strategy!”
Without anyone’s reminder, he understood the implications of this tactic. This was indeed a clever move! Not only could it sow discord between the young emperor and Sima Yue, further gaining the Emperor’s trust, but it could also use the pretext of safeguarding Luoyang to resolve the urgent situation in Shangdang, leaving Sima Yue unable to vent his anger. Wasn’t this a brilliant strategy?
Liang Feng smiled faintly, “This is the idea of Si Ruo.”
Zhang Bin smiled and gestured to Duan Qin, “Master Duan, brilliant strategy!”
Faced with Zhang Bin’s obvious flattery, Duan Qin also felt quite pleased and returned a polite smile. Although the two hadn’t truly worked together, they had developed some tacit understanding, and there was no sign of rivalry between them. Liang Feng was quite happy about this. If the strategists started plotting against each other, it would be a headache. In the past, Yuan Shao’s advisors, Shen Pei and Guo Tu, were not on good terms. Each supported a different young master, and it eventually escalated into a conflict between brothers, leading to the downfall of the mighty Yuan family. Such open and covert struggles were much more serious than a fire in the backyard.
Having made up his mind, Liang Feng continued, “However, how should we express our gratitude to the Tuoba tribe for their assistance this time?”
He always remained wary of the Tuoba Xianbei. They could be used but must not be nurtured. Rewarding them with gold, silver, or provisions was inappropriate, and military equipment, especially iron tools, was out of the question. Raising a potential threat was not something a wise person would do.
Zhang Bin smiled, “Lord, don’t worry. I’ve already thought of a plan. After the previous promotion, we can use this opportunity to help them obtain a fief. The Tuoba tribe resides near Canhe Slope, not far from Dai Commandery. How about granting them that piece of land?”
Dai Commandery? Liang Feng raised an eyebrow. Dai Commandery was not in Bing County but in You County. This was clearly an attempt to create conflict between Wang Jun and the Tuoba tribe. Would the Tuoba tribe refuse such a good piece of land as Dai Commandery? Would Wang Jun be willing to relinquish control of his territory? Additionally, the Xianbei under the influence of Wang Jun might also cause trouble. Wasn’t this a case of harming two birds with one stone?
“Very well.” Liang Feng wouldn’t show any mercy to Wang Jun. He immediately nodded in agreement.
With a rough plan in place, the three then discussed political matters and military situations before turning their attention to the strategy for the attack and defense of Shangdang. This required a brief overview of tactical ideas and vulnerable points, with the specific tactics to be decided by Yiyan.
Yiyan, who had been quiet throughout, listened to the discussion. When it was his turn, he spoke briefly. However, after the general plan was settled, he suddenly said, “Should we bring the Lord’s son to Jinyang?”
This wasn’t a suggestion from the strategists because they understood that evacuating Liang Feng’s son, Liang Rong, to Jinyang in a hurry would only undermine the morale of the troops. Yiyan was not a strategist; he was concerned only about Liang Feng’s feelings. Liang Rong was the only son guarded in Liang Feng’s palm. If he was placed in a chaotic war zone, wouldn’t it add to Liang Feng’s worries?
Advertisement
Although the statement seemed abrupt, Liang Feng easily understood what Yiyan was thinking. His lips moved slightly before he said, “No harm. With Boyuan here, Rong’er will surely be safe.”
For any military commander, such assurance was worth more than countless praises. Yet, Yiyan felt that there was something more to this statement, just like the phrase he had seen in the letter. Suppressing the agitation in his heart, he bowed to the person in front of him, “I will not fail to live up to the Lord’s trust.”
