“Shang’ai held its ground, and the enemy forces have started to divide!” When the military intelligence spread to the Provincial Governor’s Mansion, many people breathed a sigh of relief.
The first battle’s objective was considered achieved. With too many troops from You County, they couldn’t allow them to advance unchecked. The first step was to cut them off at the pass and force them to divide their forces. Concerned about their rear, the vanguard couldn’t engage too freely, achieving the desired effect of luring the enemy deeper without losing initiative.
However, Liang Feng’s expression didn’t lighten much. “Order Zhang and Yan to prepare and ensure the enemy is delayed in Leping County!”
The victory at Shang’ai was expected. In the era of cold weapons, the most effective means to counter cavalry had always been the crossbow formation. It was done this way in the Han Dynasty, and the Tang Dynasty, and refined to the extreme during the Song Dynasty. This meant a large supply of logistics and an overwhelming military-industrial complex. In blunt terms, it was a competition of comprehensive national strength.
Before having an equal-sized cavalry force, the soldiers of Bing County had to rely on such tactics to resist the iron riders of You County. The strategies employed at Shang’ai and the Thunderbolt Camp were extreme attempts. However, the cost of upgrading crossbows and Thunderbolt Cannons was unknown. The large iron ball was an improvement made after several attempts.
Given the current industrial level, it was impossible to create firearms. However, the fundamental principle of any ranged weapon was to provide kinetic energy to launch projectiles. Following this line of thought, improving the trebuchet was the simplest method. With the new Thunderbolt Cannons in practice for over two years, developments in payload, range, and precise launch angles had progressed significantly, enabling the future possibility of entrenched artillery warfare.
Winning at Shang’ai was not surprising. What mattered now was the next step after victory.
The fortress model was indeed a defensive treasure against cavalry, but it had an equally fatal flaw. This tactic was purely defensive and lacked effective killing power. The mobility of cavalry was too strong, and infantry in open-field combat was always passive. Once the enemy gave up on sieging, that’s when the real trouble began.
To determine victory or defeat, they would ultimately need large-scale group warfare to crush the enemy on the main battlefield. Zhang He, Linghu Kuang, and the recently promoted general Tian Yin were all competent commanders, but leading a battle of this scale still required some capability. All they could do for now was to keep the enemy stalled in Leping, forcing Wang Jun to reinforce and strengthen the rear forces. When the balance reached a certain point, Yiyan would strike at the heart for a decisive victory.
However, such a battle plan posed a certain threat to Bing County. If any aspect went awry, the casualties in this battle would become a staggering number. The stability of Taiyuan would also face serious threats.
The situation in Ji County was unknown. They hoped that Wang Jun could recognize the threat posed by Bing County and continue to withdraw forces from Ji County. Only by doing so could they loosen the constraints on Yiyan, allowing his troops to leverage their maximum advantage.
This battle still had to be endured.
※
Smoke and dust rose in You and Bing, and the war situation in Yu County was precarious. However, within the borders of the Xiongnu Han state, there was a lively atmosphere. The Grand Justice, acting on imperial orders, went out to welcome a remnant army that had traveled a long distance.
After assisting the puppet emperor Sima Ying failed, and the main camp was broken by Gou Xi, Wang Mi did not stay long in Jing County and Yu County. He decisively joined the Xiongnu Han state. Wang Mi, born in Donglai, came from a family with two thousand stones. Although his pedigree was not as illustrious as the Wang family of Taiyuan and Langya, he was still considered part of a prestigious lineage. In his youth, he had traveled to Luoyang and developed a close relationship with Liu Yuan, who was a hostage at that time. Now that he had suffered defeat and had nowhere to go, he naturally had to choose a new lord.
As expected, Liu Yuan was very enthusiastic about his arrival. Not only did he send the Grand Justice to welcome him, but he also sent letters expressing his desire to treat General Wang with respect and hospitality. After more than a year of battles, Wang Mi, with an army that had dwindled from a hundred thousand to less than twenty thousand, had also endured some hardships. Now, Liu Yuan put down his airs and warmly welcomed him, making him feel quite pleased.
However, no matter how pleased he was, Wang Mi, being from a noble family, still understood basic etiquette. On that day, he entered the Pingyang Palace and paid respects to the Han Emperor.
Liu Yuan had also spared no effort. Before Wang Mi could finish his salute, he personally descended from the royal couch and supported him with his hands, saying, “This humble servant initially thought that General would be like Duke Zhou. Now I realize that you are my Kong Ming, my Zhong Hua. Our great ancestor once said, ‘With generals like you, it is as if a fish has water!'”
This statement was what Liu Bei had said to Zhuge Liang back in the day, creating an eternal tale for Shu Han. Even though Wang Mi had a fierce and willful nature, he was moved and showed a trace of emotion on his face.
With such mutual humility, the two began to display a taste of a harmonious monarch and minister. After being seated, Liu Yuan wanted to appoint Wang Mi as the Colonel-Director of Retainers and add him to the Privy Council. Aware that he had no achievements in the Han state, Wang Mi quickly declined, saying, “Your Majesty has treated me generously. How can I accept such an appointment without any merit? Now that Jin is in turmoil, if I could lead troops to attack Prince Donghai, it would be an excellent opportunity! Why not let me lead troops to seize the four provinces of Jing, Yu, Yan, and Qing!”
Wang Mi said this with considerable confidence. With his family background in Qing County and having fought for a year and a half in Jing County and Yu County, he was exceptionally familiar with these provinces. If he could capture them, his position in the Han state would be unshakable.
Liu Yuan smiled gently, “General, your military prowess is well-known to me. However, with the current chaos in Jin, if faced with an external threat, they might cease their internal conflicts and unite against a common enemy. Why not take advantage of their infighting and attack elsewhere?”
Wang Mi was momentarily stunned but quickly grasped the situation, “Your Majesty, do you mean to attack the Western Capital?”
Naturally, he was referring to Chang’an. When Liu Yao captured Fengyi Commandery, it had already opened the path to Yong County. Currently, Chang’an is guarded by Sima Mo, the brother of Sima Yue. If Chang’an could be captured, the fertile land of Guanzhong would fall into the hands of the Han state. This was a significant territory! Moreover, there were still tens of thousands of Qiang and Di people residing in Yong County, who could be valuable assets for the Xiongnu!
Liu Yuan nodded approvingly, “Exactly, Chang’an! Once we take over Yong County, we can then move on to Si and Yu. It will be like picking things from a bag!”
This was Liu Yuan’s well-established plan. Sima Yue and Gou Xi were already at odds and engaged in a life-and-death struggle. Wang Pengzu from You County had also led troops southward, showing an interest in Bing County. Regardless of the outcome, it was a battle between two tigers. Why not watch the tigers fight from a distance and take advantage when both are weakened?
So now, the best target was Yong County and Chang’an. Once Guanzhong was secured, the two commanderies of Hongnong and Shangluo in Si County would be like empty cities. Advancing to Luoyang would be entirely feasible. With Wang Mi now joining him, wasn’t this heaven-sent help?
Since it was Liu Yuan’s command, the newly surrendered Wang Mi would not refuse, readily accepting the appointment as the Inspector of the Imperial Secretariat. Along with it, his younger brother Wang Zhang and his clan brother Wang Sang also received rewards.
Another person who received generous rewards was Shi Le.
After the defeat in Ji County, Shi Le, after much contemplation, ultimately chose to join Wang Mi and went to Pingyang together. This decision was driven by the fact that Shi Le’s forces were too weak, leaving him with no other viable option. However, given Shi Le’s remarkable military achievements in Ji County, Wang Mi was quite satisfied, and he spoke highly of him in front of Liu Yuan. As a result, Shi Le was granted command of five thousand troops and became the vanguard of Wang Mi’s army.
The days when he led tens of thousands of troops and was hailed as the Grand General were long gone. However, Shi Le did not show any signs of frustration or discontent. In the Xiongnu Han State, military achievements were the most crucial. As long as he demonstrated his capabilities, there was no doubt that Liu Yuan would value him!
When he assumed the position of Grand General again, it would be the day of revenge! He was determined to conquer Ji County!
Three days later, led by Liu Yao and Wang Mi, a formidable army of sixty thousand marched vigorously towards Yong County!
“Increasing troops, Wang Jun has started.” In Ji County, the person Shi Le held a grudge against was closely monitoring the current situation.
Wang Jun was quite experienced in military affairs. Instead of withdrawing all troops stationed in Ji County, he left behind twenty thousand soldiers to guard Changshan Commandery, specifically to defend against Yiyan, the current Commandant of Ji County. The intention was clear—to guard against Yiyan, the present Commandant of Ji County, in case of a potential fallout with Bing County. Whether or not a real rupture with Bing County occurred, Yiyan had become an entity that could not be ignored. If he interfered in the conflict and seized the opportunity to grab territory in Ji County or even launched a counterattack, targeting the supply route to You County, the situation would be precarious. How could Wang Jun not be vigilant?
Because he understood Wang Jun’s cautious stance, Yiyan had been inactive for these days. This indifferent attitude also prompted Wang Jun to temporarily set aside the idea of attacking Zhao County, avoiding provoking him and adding unnecessary complications.
However, this delicate balance did not last too long. Wang Jun had already begun mobilizing the troops in Ji County, moving towards Changshan Commandery. It was evident that the situation in Bing County was becoming critical. Although Yiyan was aware of the risks associated with the current military plan and the dangers of luring the enemy deep into their territory, he still couldn’t bring himself to deploy a single soldier. It was an internal struggle, and the internal turmoil was self-evident.
Endure a little longer. Every day, Yiyan reminded himself in this way. It was not yet the optimal time. The best opportunity would only arise when Wang Jun increased his forces in Ji County again or withdrew his troops. In the steep mountain passes of Jingxing, a few military camps were discreetly arranged. The number was minimal, less than a hundred men, all expertly trained by Yiyan himself, capable of attacking and seizing cities. The earlier passage of the You County troops through the region was precisely a strategic move to take advantage of an unexpected opportunity in the future.
Once the troops are deployed, Jingxing can immediately return to our hands. After defeating the enemy’s rear supply route, we can block the passage for the enemy to return to You County. Then, with swift horse pursuit, force the remnants to escape along the Yanmen line back to You County. However, it’s uncertain how many enemies will be depleted along this route. Moreover, on the return journey through Dai Jun, the Tuoba clan will not easily let the defeated soldiers pass. With such a battle, it is enough to seriously injure Wang Jun and bring all of Ji County under our lord’s control!
At most, another month of endurance will achieve the desired results. For the goal, any cost is acceptable!
Just endure a little longer.
On Yiyan’s side, there was no movement. Not only Wang Ping but even Ding Shao had not mentioned anything about the Battle of You and Bing. Similarly, the order for Sima Yue to mobilize troops was universally ignored in Ji County. In the absence of clarity, who dares to step forward and question Sima Yue? What if it’s indeed an imperial order to suppress this bold usurpation by the newly appointed Prime Minister?
In this silent endurance, Ji County, like a fierce beast that had just fought fiercely, sank into a slumber. With three major battles unfolding simultaneously, the situation in the world seemed to become increasingly elusive.
However, no one anticipated that the chaotic yet balanced situation would abruptly change overnight!
“Shang’ai held its ground, and the enemy forces have started to divide!” When the military intelligence spread to the Provincial Governor’s Mansion, many people breathed a sigh of relief.
The first battle’s objective was considered achieved. With too many troops from You County, they couldn’t allow them to advance unchecked. The first step was to cut them off at the pass and force them to divide their forces. Concerned about their rear, the vanguard couldn’t engage too freely, achieving the desired effect of luring the enemy deeper without losing initiative.
However, Liang Feng’s expression didn’t lighten much. “Order Zhang and Yan to prepare and ensure the enemy is delayed in Leping County!”
The victory at Shang’ai was expected. In the era of cold weapons, the most effective means to counter cavalry had always been the crossbow formation. It was done this way in the Han Dynasty, and the Tang Dynasty, and refined to the extreme during the Song Dynasty. This meant a large supply of logistics and an overwhelming military-industrial complex. In blunt terms, it was a competition of comprehensive national strength.
Before having an equal-sized cavalry force, the soldiers of Bing County had to rely on such tactics to resist the iron riders of You County. The strategies employed at Shang’ai and the Thunderbolt Camp were extreme attempts. However, the cost of upgrading crossbows and Thunderbolt Cannons was unknown. The large iron ball was an improvement made after several attempts.
Given the current industrial level, it was impossible to create firearms. However, the fundamental principle of any ranged weapon was to provide kinetic energy to launch projectiles. Following this line of thought, improving the trebuchet was the simplest method. With the new Thunderbolt Cannons in practice for over two years, developments in payload, range, and precise launch angles had progressed significantly, enabling the future possibility of entrenched artillery warfare.
Winning at Shang’ai was not surprising. What mattered now was the next step after victory.
The fortress model was indeed a defensive treasure against cavalry, but it had an equally fatal flaw. This tactic was purely defensive and lacked effective killing power. The mobility of cavalry was too strong, and infantry in open-field combat was always passive. Once the enemy gave up on sieging, that’s when the real trouble began.
To determine victory or defeat, they would ultimately need large-scale group warfare to crush the enemy on the main battlefield. Zhang He, Linghu Kuang, and the recently promoted general Tian Yin were all competent commanders, but leading a battle of this scale still required some capability. All they could do for now was to keep the enemy stalled in Leping, forcing Wang Jun to reinforce and strengthen the rear forces. When the balance reached a certain point, Yiyan would strike at the heart for a decisive victory.
However, such a battle plan posed a certain threat to Bing County. If any aspect went awry, the casualties in this battle would become a staggering number. The stability of Taiyuan would also face serious threats.
The situation in Ji County was unknown. They hoped that Wang Jun could recognize the threat posed by Bing County and continue to withdraw forces from Ji County. Only by doing so could they loosen the constraints on Yiyan, allowing his troops to leverage their maximum advantage.
This battle still had to be endured.
※
Smoke and dust rose in You and Bing, and the war situation in Yu County was precarious. However, within the borders of the Xiongnu Han state, there was a lively atmosphere. The Grand Justice, acting on imperial orders, went out to welcome a remnant army that had traveled a long distance.
After assisting the puppet emperor Sima Ying failed, and the main camp was broken by Gou Xi, Wang Mi did not stay long in Jing County and Yu County. He decisively joined the Xiongnu Han state. Wang Mi, born in Donglai, came from a family with two thousand stones. Although his pedigree was not as illustrious as the Wang family of Taiyuan and Langya, he was still considered part of a prestigious lineage. In his youth, he had traveled to Luoyang and developed a close relationship with Liu Yuan, who was a hostage at that time. Now that he had suffered defeat and had nowhere to go, he naturally had to choose a new lord.
As expected, Liu Yuan was very enthusiastic about his arrival. Not only did he send the Grand Justice to welcome him, but he also sent letters expressing his desire to treat General Wang with respect and hospitality. After more than a year of battles, Wang Mi, with an army that had dwindled from a hundred thousand to less than twenty thousand, had also endured some hardships. Now, Liu Yuan put down his airs and warmly welcomed him, making him feel quite pleased.
However, no matter how pleased he was, Wang Mi, being from a noble family, still understood basic etiquette. On that day, he entered the Pingyang Palace and paid respects to the Han Emperor.
Liu Yuan had also spared no effort. Before Wang Mi could finish his salute, he personally descended from the royal couch and supported him with his hands, saying, “This humble servant initially thought that General would be like Duke Zhou. Now I realize that you are my Kong Ming, my Zhong Hua. Our great ancestor once said, ‘With generals like you, it is as if a fish has water!'”
This statement was what Liu Bei had said to Zhuge Liang back in the day, creating an eternal tale for Shu Han. Even though Wang Mi had a fierce and willful nature, he was moved and showed a trace of emotion on his face.
With such mutual humility, the two began to display a taste of a harmonious monarch and minister. After being seated, Liu Yuan wanted to appoint Wang Mi as the Colonel-Director of Retainers and add him to the Privy Council. Aware that he had no achievements in the Han state, Wang Mi quickly declined, saying, “Your Majesty has treated me generously. How can I accept such an appointment without any merit? Now that Jin is in turmoil, if I could lead troops to attack Prince Donghai, it would be an excellent opportunity! Why not let me lead troops to seize the four provinces of Jing, Yu, Yan, and Qing!”
Wang Mi said this with considerable confidence. With his family background in Qing County and having fought for a year and a half in Jing County and Yu County, he was exceptionally familiar with these provinces. If he could capture them, his position in the Han state would be unshakable.
Liu Yuan smiled gently, “General, your military prowess is well-known to me. However, with the current chaos in Jin, if faced with an external threat, they might cease their internal conflicts and unite against a common enemy. Why not take advantage of their infighting and attack elsewhere?”
Wang Mi was momentarily stunned but quickly grasped the situation, “Your Majesty, do you mean to attack the Western Capital?”
Naturally, he was referring to Chang’an. When Liu Yao captured Fengyi Commandery, it had already opened the path to Yong County. Currently, Chang’an is guarded by Sima Mo, the brother of Sima Yue. If Chang’an could be captured, the fertile land of Guanzhong would fall into the hands of the Han state. This was a significant territory! Moreover, there were still tens of thousands of Qiang and Di people residing in Yong County, who could be valuable assets for the Xiongnu!
Liu Yuan nodded approvingly, “Exactly, Chang’an! Once we take over Yong County, we can then move on to Si and Yu. It will be like picking things from a bag!”
This was Liu Yuan’s well-established plan. Sima Yue and Gou Xi were already at odds and engaged in a life-and-death struggle. Wang Pengzu from You County had also led troops southward, showing an interest in Bing County. Regardless of the outcome, it was a battle between two tigers. Why not watch the tigers fight from a distance and take advantage when both are weakened?
So now, the best target was Yong County and Chang’an. Once Guanzhong was secured, the two commanderies of Hongnong and Shangluo in Si County would be like empty cities. Advancing to Luoyang would be entirely feasible. With Wang Mi now joining him, wasn’t this heaven-sent help?
Since it was Liu Yuan’s command, the newly surrendered Wang Mi would not refuse, readily accepting the appointment as the Inspector of the Imperial Secretariat. Along with it, his younger brother Wang Zhang and his clan brother Wang Sang also received rewards.
Another person who received generous rewards was Shi Le.
After the defeat in Ji County, Shi Le, after much contemplation, ultimately chose to join Wang Mi and went to Pingyang together. This decision was driven by the fact that Shi Le’s forces were too weak, leaving him with no other viable option. However, given Shi Le’s remarkable military achievements in Ji County, Wang Mi was quite satisfied, and he spoke highly of him in front of Liu Yuan. As a result, Shi Le was granted command of five thousand troops and became the vanguard of Wang Mi’s army.
The days when he led tens of thousands of troops and was hailed as the Grand General were long gone. However, Shi Le did not show any signs of frustration or discontent. In the Xiongnu Han State, military achievements were the most crucial. As long as he demonstrated his capabilities, there was no doubt that Liu Yuan would value him!
When he assumed the position of Grand General again, it would be the day of revenge! He was determined to conquer Ji County!
Three days later, led by Liu Yao and Wang Mi, a formidable army of sixty thousand marched vigorously towards Yong County!
“Increasing troops, Wang Jun has started.” In Ji County, the person Shi Le held a grudge against was closely monitoring the current situation.
Wang Jun was quite experienced in military affairs. Instead of withdrawing all troops stationed in Ji County, he left behind twenty thousand soldiers to guard Changshan Commandery, specifically to defend against Yiyan, the current Commandant of Ji County. The intention was clear—to guard against Yiyan, the present Commandant of Ji County, in case of a potential fallout with Bing County. Whether or not a real rupture with Bing County occurred, Yiyan had become an entity that could not be ignored. If he interfered in the conflict and seized the opportunity to grab territory in Ji County or even launched a counterattack, targeting the supply route to You County, the situation would be precarious. How could Wang Jun not be vigilant?
Because he understood Wang Jun’s cautious stance, Yiyan had been inactive for these days. This indifferent attitude also prompted Wang Jun to temporarily set aside the idea of attacking Zhao County, avoiding provoking him and adding unnecessary complications.
However, this delicate balance did not last too long. Wang Jun had already begun mobilizing the troops in Ji County, moving towards Changshan Commandery. It was evident that the situation in Bing County was becoming critical. Although Yiyan was aware of the risks associated with the current military plan and the dangers of luring the enemy deep into their territory, he still couldn’t bring himself to deploy a single soldier. It was an internal struggle, and the internal turmoil was self-evident.
Endure a little longer. Every day, Yiyan reminded himself in this way. It was not yet the optimal time. The best opportunity would only arise when Wang Jun increased his forces in Ji County again or withdrew his troops. In the steep mountain passes of Jingxing, a few military camps were discreetly arranged. The number was minimal, less than a hundred men, all expertly trained by Yiyan himself, capable of attacking and seizing cities. The earlier passage of the You County troops through the region was precisely a strategic move to take advantage of an unexpected opportunity in the future.
Once the troops are deployed, Jingxing can immediately return to our hands. After defeating the enemy’s rear supply route, we can block the passage for the enemy to return to You County. Then, with swift horse pursuit, force the remnants to escape along the Yanmen line back to You County. However, it’s uncertain how many enemies will be depleted along this route. Moreover, on the return journey through Dai Jun, the Tuoba clan will not easily let the defeated soldiers pass. With such a battle, it is enough to seriously injure Wang Jun and bring all of Ji County under our lord’s control!
At most, another month of endurance will achieve the desired results. For the goal, any cost is acceptable!
Just endure a little longer.
On Yiyan’s side, there was no movement. Not only Wang Ping but even Ding Shao had not mentioned anything about the Battle of You and Bing. Similarly, the order for Sima Yue to mobilize troops was universally ignored in Ji County. In the absence of clarity, who dares to step forward and question Sima Yue? What if it’s indeed an imperial order to suppress this bold usurpation by the newly appointed Prime Minister?
In this silent endurance, Ji County, like a fierce beast that had just fought fiercely, sank into a slumber. With three major battles unfolding simultaneously, the situation in the world seemed to become increasingly elusive.
However, no one anticipated that the chaotic yet balanced situation would abruptly change overnight!
