“Envoy from You County?” Upon hearing the words “You County,” Yiyan furrowed his brow.
Having been observing the situation all along, how could he not be aware of the violent death of Sima Yue? Subsequent actions in You County only heightened Yiyan’s anxiety. The reinforcement of forty thousand troops to Ji City and the mobilization of all forces from Ji County, pressing towards Bing County? This military strength far exceeded the numbers his lord could effectively counter, and regardless of the response, it would plunge Bing County into an unprecedented crisis.
At the moment when he was eager to deploy forces immediately, the news of the envoy from You County reached his ears—how could Yiyan not be astonished? However, in just a moment, his expression returned to its original state: “Invite them in!”
Welcomed courteously into the main tent, Wei Tong finally met the legendary Jie general. Despite the other’s grotesque appearance and intimidating aura, Wei Tong showed no hint of surprise. He made a respectful gesture and took a seat before Yiyan.
“I am not aware of the purpose of Wei’s visit to Ji County. What brings him here?” Yiyan asked straightforwardly, seemingly oblivious to his guest’s demeanor.
Unconcerned about the lack of courtesy, Wei Tong spoke loudly, “General Yi, within just half a year, you captured Ye City and pacified Ji County. Truly an extraordinary talent. Why confine yourself to a corner?”
The meaning behind his words was too obvious. Yiyan’s expression changed, “What do you mean by that?”
It was a question asked with full knowledge. Wei Tong remained composed, smiling, “General Yi, are you unaware of the current state of affairs? With the sudden demise of Prince Donghai and no one in power at the court, my commanding officer commands an army of tens of thousands, poised to enter Luoyang, achieving dominance. General, after years of hard-fought battles, you’ve only attained the position of a commandant. Isn’t that wasting your talents? Why not choose another enlightened lord and showcase your ambitions?”
His words were full of provocative tones, explicitly stating his purpose for coming. He was a messenger sent by Wang Jun, attempting to bring this potential adversary who controlled the southeast of Ji County and most of Si County under their influence.
This idea wasn’t surprising. In the month following the start of the war between You County and Bing County, Yiyan had been too passive. No troop movements, no plans for Ji County, and he even forgot about the original lord. Such indifference and profit-driven attitude naturally made Wang Jun consider his options, especially considering Yiyan’s Jie ethnicity.
Seeing Yiyan’s silence, Wei Tong’s smiling expression became even more friendly and sticky, “General, being of a different ethnicity, you know the difficulty of rising above others. Even if you have talent, it’s hard to showcase. The Wang family, though gentle and amiable, is inherently proud; how can they treat you well? Our commanding officer, long stationed in You County, commands numerous Xianbei soldiers, recognizing talent regardless of lineage. This invitation to you, General, is sincere. If you join us, you will be on par with the Duan and Yuwen families!”
Duan and Yuwen, both Xianbei, were Wang Jun’s sons-in-law. The implication was clear: to marry a Wang family daughter to Yiyan, treating him as a true confidant. This was genuine kindness, as he only controlled half of a province, with an army of no more than ten thousand, far inferior to the two Xianbei forces.
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Yiyan’s brows moved slightly, “I am of lowly status; how can I deserve such affection from the commanding officer?”
His tone softened, even changing his self-reference to a lower rank. Wei Tong chuckled at his words, “General, why humble yourself? The Wang family has a twelve-year-old daughter, exceptionally beautiful. She would be a perfect match for a young talent like yourself. Isn’t it a match made in heaven?”
It’s not necessarily a daughter; it could be Wang Jun’s granddaughter. Wang Jun’s legitimate son is still young, so naturally, there wouldn’t be a legitimate granddaughter. But then again, even if she’s an illegitimate daughter, so what? She’s still a young lady from the Taiyuan Wang family! With just two daughters, he secured the unwavering loyalty of the Duan and Yuwen families, all thanks to Wang Jun’s generosity. Where else in the world would they be valued so highly as these foreign tribes?
Yiyan’s expression became even more complicated, eventually sighing deeply, “May I ask how the commanding officer wishes to deploy me?”
“As long as General leads the troops to the main tent and assists our commanding officer in taking over Bing County,” Wei Tong’s expression also changed, revealing a sinister greed beneath his smiling facade, “General hails from Bing County and should be familiar with the defenses. If the General can help the commanding officer capture Ji County and Bing County, why worry about the future?”
This time, Yiyan paused for a longer moment, “My soldiers are scattered in the counties. If they are to be summoned, it might take a few days.”
Wei Tong hurriedly said, “The commanding officer only wants the General himself. We have forty thousand strong troops; General, command as you see fit!”
Wang Jun also had concerns. If Yiyan brought over more than ten thousand men to the main tent, it might cause trouble, and it wouldn’t be easy to handle. They had no real cooperation or friendship, just empty promises. How could they be taken seriously?
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“In that case, I will lead two thousand elite riders and go to meet the commanding officer,” Yiyan stepped back but still insisted on bringing two thousand soldiers.
Wei Tong could understand this concern. Doubts were mutual; if Yiyan came with no soldiers at all, it would be audacious and reckless. However, what significance did two thousand soldiers have? Surrounded by forty thousand troops, it would be difficult for them to defend themselves. This number was just right, not too much nor too little, to show the sincerity of someone seeking allegiance.
“General’s troops are renowned throughout the world. With these selected elites, it is truly a blessing for You County,” Wei Tong smiled, patting his knee, “If it’s convenient, please set out immediately, accompanying this subordinate to Fanyang.”
Wang Jun had already set out from Ji City and would soon reach the border between You County and Bing County. This battle couldn’t be delayed, and considering the need for strict secrecy, the sooner, the better.
Yiyan readily agreed, “Rest assured, Envoy Wei. In just a day, I will be able to lead the troops.”
This speed was not slow, and Wei Tong had no reason to object. After a few more reminders, he was led away by his attendants to rest.
As soon as that person’s figure disappeared, Yiyan immediately said, “Summon Jiang Ying, the Military Marshal, and Liu Gong, the Camp Commander.”
Military Marshal Jiang Ying and Camp Commander Liu Gong were precisely the two prominent generals under Yiyan’s command. Upon hearing the summons from their commander-in-chief, how could they dare to be negligent? The two quickly arrived at the tent.
Cold, knife-like gazes swept across their faces as Yiyan sternly spoke, “Wang Jun has sent an envoy, promising generous treatment, and ordered me to go to his tent to receive commands. I have accepted, and tomorrow I will lead two thousand soldiers to You County.”
Upon hearing this, the expressions of the two men changed drastically. Jiang Ying was the first to react, “General, are you planning to feign surrender? How can two thousand soldiers be enough?!”
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He couldn’t believe that Yiyan would truly rebel, so he immediately discerned the commander’s intention. However, Wang Jun’s main camp had a force of forty thousand soldiers, and taking only two thousand, wasn’t that tantamount to sending them to their deaths?!
Liu Gong also urgently said, “Indeed, General. Wang Jun has brought forty thousand elite troops this time. If it fails, won’t it jeopardize the overall situation?”
Their troops were the key to the battle between You County and Bing County. If they went to the enemy’s camp now, it might work. But if they failed, what then?
Two thousand against forty thousand, and it was still a feigned surrender! How risky!
“This battle’s crucial point is Wang Jun. Only by killing him can we break the siege on Bing County,” Yiyan’s voice was not loud, but it carried an indisputable firmness, “Otherwise, with a hundred and fifty thousand troops pressing on our borders, how many losses do we need to win?”
Jiang Ying and Liu Gong both fell silent. How could they not know the impending situation for Bing County? This battle might be their lord’s door. If they won, they could claim kingship; if they lost, they would lose everything! Killing Wang Jun could indeed serve as a decisive move, undermining the enemy from within and securing victory. However, it was too risky!
“The Champion Marquis with eight hundred light cavalry dared to raid a hundred miles, slaying the enemy leaders beyond expectations. Zhang Wenyuan and his eight hundred brave warriors managed to repel the Wu forces of a hundred thousand. Now, with two thousand elite riders and a feigned surrender, how can we not take a chance?” Yiyan stood up, and gently clenched his fist, “The lord’s grace to us should be repaid today!”
Jiang Ying, originally a scholar, naturally knew the historical examples he mentioned, each a pivotal battle that turned the tide. As a military officer of Liu Gong’s rank, he had also studied many military classics. Hearing these two names, he felt his blood boil. With a swift motion, he stood up, “This subordinate is willing to devote heart and soul, to slay Wang Jun for our lord!”
Jiang Ying hesitated for a moment but finally said, “This matter should be reported to the lord…”
“No time,” a hint of indecision flashed in Yiyan’s eyes. More than not having time, even if the lord knew, would he allow such a risky move? But this time, even if the lord tried to stop him, he had to do it!
“Liu Gong, lead a hundred men to Ye City. I need you to retrieve an item…” After giving detailed instructions, Yiyan turned to Jiang Ying, “Marshal Jiang, I entrust Ji County to you. Once Wang Jun’s camp is in chaos, quickly send troops to Changshan and seize Jingxing!”
He paused, “Also, if the lord’s envoy comes, apologize to him on my behalf. Tell him that I will not let the lord down.”
This statement, amidst its solemnity, carried an intense sincerity. Jiang Ying’s eyes welled up with tears, choked with emotion, he said, “This battle is perilous; General must be careful!”
With that, there was no turning back. Both received their military orders and left to carry them out, leaving Yiyan alone in the tent. His gaze swept through the military tent where he had stayed for months and landed on the bed in the inner room. His expression turned somewhat melancholic and sorrowful. After a moment of hesitation, Yiyan finally took a step, walked to the bedside, reached out, and from the head of the bed, he took out a small wooden box.
His fingers glided smoothly over the polished lid of the box that reflected shadows. Yiyan opened the box and took out something cherished for a long time. It was a small Buddha statue, delicate and vivid, like a blooming lotus untouched by worldly dust.
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It was something he should have given away. Given to his beloved.
Taking a deep breath, Yiyan cut off a section of silk thread, tied it around the Buddha statue, and then looped it around his neck. The smooth and flawless white jade, slipping into the collar, fell onto his chest, pressing against his skin and instantly warming up. After a slight touch on his chest, Yiyan no longer lingered, striding decisively outside the tent.
The next day, two thousand riders, escorting the carriage that brought Wei Tong, headed towards You County. Another group of a hundred light cavalry also left Ji County, galloping swiftly towards Wei County.
In less than a day, this small squad entered Ye City, encountering no obstacles and directly barging into the Prefect’s Mansion.
Wang Ping had been anxious about the death of Prince Donghai these days, especially worried about his cousin Wang Yan possibly facing consequences. Now, hearing the report from the servants that Liu Gong was requesting an audience, he couldn’t help but be stunned. Wasn’t this person one of Yiyan’s trusted aides? Why did he suddenly return from Ji County?
Although he found it inappropriate, Wang Ping, feeling a bit annoyed, adjusted his attire and composedly said, “Let him in.”
With a sword at his side and wearing shoes, Liu Gong strode into Wang Ping’s study. Ignoring the surprise in Wang Ping’s expression, he respectfully said, “In the name of our general, I’ve come specifically to request something from Lord Prefect.”
Wang Ping widened his eyes, “Request, request what?”
His body involuntarily trembled, like a mouse in a hole sensing the presence of a cat.
Without answering, Liu Gong swiftly unsheathed his long sword. A bright and cold light flashed, blood splattered, and with a thud, a large head fell onto the table.
Ignoring the horrified screams of the maidservants nearby, Liu Gong bent down, picked up the severed head, and coldly said, “Borrowing a head for a moment.”
“Envoy from You County?” Upon hearing the words “You County,” Yiyan furrowed his brow.
Having been observing the situation all along, how could he not be aware of the violent death of Sima Yue? Subsequent actions in You County only heightened Yiyan’s anxiety. The reinforcement of forty thousand troops to Ji City and the mobilization of all forces from Ji County, pressing towards Bing County? This military strength far exceeded the numbers his lord could effectively counter, and regardless of the response, it would plunge Bing County into an unprecedented crisis.
At the moment when he was eager to deploy forces immediately, the news of the envoy from You County reached his ears—how could Yiyan not be astonished? However, in just a moment, his expression returned to its original state: “Invite them in!”
Welcomed courteously into the main tent, Wei Tong finally met the legendary Jie general. Despite the other’s grotesque appearance and intimidating aura, Wei Tong showed no hint of surprise. He made a respectful gesture and took a seat before Yiyan.
“I am not aware of the purpose of Wei’s visit to Ji County. What brings him here?” Yiyan asked straightforwardly, seemingly oblivious to his guest’s demeanor.
Unconcerned about the lack of courtesy, Wei Tong spoke loudly, “General Yi, within just half a year, you captured Ye City and pacified Ji County. Truly an extraordinary talent. Why confine yourself to a corner?”
The meaning behind his words was too obvious. Yiyan’s expression changed, “What do you mean by that?”
It was a question asked with full knowledge. Wei Tong remained composed, smiling, “General Yi, are you unaware of the current state of affairs? With the sudden demise of Prince Donghai and no one in power at the court, my commanding officer commands an army of tens of thousands, poised to enter Luoyang, achieving dominance. General, after years of hard-fought battles, you’ve only attained the position of a commandant. Isn’t that wasting your talents? Why not choose another enlightened lord and showcase your ambitions?”
His words were full of provocative tones, explicitly stating his purpose for coming. He was a messenger sent by Wang Jun, attempting to bring this potential adversary who controlled the southeast of Ji County and most of Si County under their influence.
This idea wasn’t surprising. In the month following the start of the war between You County and Bing County, Yiyan had been too passive. No troop movements, no plans for Ji County, and he even forgot about the original lord. Such indifference and profit-driven attitude naturally made Wang Jun consider his options, especially considering Yiyan’s Jie ethnicity.
Seeing Yiyan’s silence, Wei Tong’s smiling expression became even more friendly and sticky, “General, being of a different ethnicity, you know the difficulty of rising above others. Even if you have talent, it’s hard to showcase. The Wang family, though gentle and amiable, is inherently proud; how can they treat you well? Our commanding officer, long stationed in You County, commands numerous Xianbei soldiers, recognizing talent regardless of lineage. This invitation to you, General, is sincere. If you join us, you will be on par with the Duan and Yuwen families!”
Duan and Yuwen, both Xianbei, were Wang Jun’s sons-in-law. The implication was clear: to marry a Wang family daughter to Yiyan, treating him as a true confidant. This was genuine kindness, as he only controlled half of a province, with an army of no more than ten thousand, far inferior to the two Xianbei forces.
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Yiyan’s brows moved slightly, “I am of lowly status; how can I deserve such affection from the commanding officer?”
His tone softened, even changing his self-reference to a lower rank. Wei Tong chuckled at his words, “General, why humble yourself? The Wang family has a twelve-year-old daughter, exceptionally beautiful. She would be a perfect match for a young talent like yourself. Isn’t it a match made in heaven?”
It’s not necessarily a daughter; it could be Wang Jun’s granddaughter. Wang Jun’s legitimate son is still young, so naturally, there wouldn’t be a legitimate granddaughter. But then again, even if she’s an illegitimate daughter, so what? She’s still a young lady from the Taiyuan Wang family! With just two daughters, he secured the unwavering loyalty of the Duan and Yuwen families, all thanks to Wang Jun’s generosity. Where else in the world would they be valued so highly as these foreign tribes?
Yiyan’s expression became even more complicated, eventually sighing deeply, “May I ask how the commanding officer wishes to deploy me?”
“As long as General leads the troops to the main tent and assists our commanding officer in taking over Bing County,” Wei Tong’s expression also changed, revealing a sinister greed beneath his smiling facade, “General hails from Bing County and should be familiar with the defenses. If the General can help the commanding officer capture Ji County and Bing County, why worry about the future?”
This time, Yiyan paused for a longer moment, “My soldiers are scattered in the counties. If they are to be summoned, it might take a few days.”
Wei Tong hurriedly said, “The commanding officer only wants the General himself. We have forty thousand strong troops; General, command as you see fit!”
Wang Jun also had concerns. If Yiyan brought over more than ten thousand men to the main tent, it might cause trouble, and it wouldn’t be easy to handle. They had no real cooperation or friendship, just empty promises. How could they be taken seriously?
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“In that case, I will lead two thousand elite riders and go to meet the commanding officer,” Yiyan stepped back but still insisted on bringing two thousand soldiers.
Wei Tong could understand this concern. Doubts were mutual; if Yiyan came with no soldiers at all, it would be audacious and reckless. However, what significance did two thousand soldiers have? Surrounded by forty thousand troops, it would be difficult for them to defend themselves. This number was just right, not too much nor too little, to show the sincerity of someone seeking allegiance.
“General’s troops are renowned throughout the world. With these selected elites, it is truly a blessing for You County,” Wei Tong smiled, patting his knee, “If it’s convenient, please set out immediately, accompanying this subordinate to Fanyang.”
Wang Jun had already set out from Ji City and would soon reach the border between You County and Bing County. This battle couldn’t be delayed, and considering the need for strict secrecy, the sooner, the better.
Yiyan readily agreed, “Rest assured, Envoy Wei. In just a day, I will be able to lead the troops.”
This speed was not slow, and Wei Tong had no reason to object. After a few more reminders, he was led away by his attendants to rest.
As soon as that person’s figure disappeared, Yiyan immediately said, “Summon Jiang Ying, the Military Marshal, and Liu Gong, the Camp Commander.”
Military Marshal Jiang Ying and Camp Commander Liu Gong were precisely the two prominent generals under Yiyan’s command. Upon hearing the summons from their commander-in-chief, how could they dare to be negligent? The two quickly arrived at the tent.
Cold, knife-like gazes swept across their faces as Yiyan sternly spoke, “Wang Jun has sent an envoy, promising generous treatment, and ordered me to go to his tent to receive commands. I have accepted, and tomorrow I will lead two thousand soldiers to You County.”
Upon hearing this, the expressions of the two men changed drastically. Jiang Ying was the first to react, “General, are you planning to feign surrender? How can two thousand soldiers be enough?!”
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He couldn’t believe that Yiyan would truly rebel, so he immediately discerned the commander’s intention. However, Wang Jun’s main camp had a force of forty thousand soldiers, and taking only two thousand, wasn’t that tantamount to sending them to their deaths?!
Liu Gong also urgently said, “Indeed, General. Wang Jun has brought forty thousand elite troops this time. If it fails, won’t it jeopardize the overall situation?”
Their troops were the key to the battle between You County and Bing County. If they went to the enemy’s camp now, it might work. But if they failed, what then?
Two thousand against forty thousand, and it was still a feigned surrender! How risky!
“This battle’s crucial point is Wang Jun. Only by killing him can we break the siege on Bing County,” Yiyan’s voice was not loud, but it carried an indisputable firmness, “Otherwise, with a hundred and fifty thousand troops pressing on our borders, how many losses do we need to win?”
Jiang Ying and Liu Gong both fell silent. How could they not know the impending situation for Bing County? This battle might be their lord’s door. If they won, they could claim kingship; if they lost, they would lose everything! Killing Wang Jun could indeed serve as a decisive move, undermining the enemy from within and securing victory. However, it was too risky!
“The Champion Marquis with eight hundred light cavalry dared to raid a hundred miles, slaying the enemy leaders beyond expectations. Zhang Wenyuan and his eight hundred brave warriors managed to repel the Wu forces of a hundred thousand. Now, with two thousand elite riders and a feigned surrender, how can we not take a chance?” Yiyan stood up, and gently clenched his fist, “The lord’s grace to us should be repaid today!”
Jiang Ying, originally a scholar, naturally knew the historical examples he mentioned, each a pivotal battle that turned the tide. As a military officer of Liu Gong’s rank, he had also studied many military classics. Hearing these two names, he felt his blood boil. With a swift motion, he stood up, “This subordinate is willing to devote heart and soul, to slay Wang Jun for our lord!”
Jiang Ying hesitated for a moment but finally said, “This matter should be reported to the lord…”
“No time,” a hint of indecision flashed in Yiyan’s eyes. More than not having time, even if the lord knew, would he allow such a risky move? But this time, even if the lord tried to stop him, he had to do it!
“Liu Gong, lead a hundred men to Ye City. I need you to retrieve an item…” After giving detailed instructions, Yiyan turned to Jiang Ying, “Marshal Jiang, I entrust Ji County to you. Once Wang Jun’s camp is in chaos, quickly send troops to Changshan and seize Jingxing!”
He paused, “Also, if the lord’s envoy comes, apologize to him on my behalf. Tell him that I will not let the lord down.”
This statement, amidst its solemnity, carried an intense sincerity. Jiang Ying’s eyes welled up with tears, choked with emotion, he said, “This battle is perilous; General must be careful!”
With that, there was no turning back. Both received their military orders and left to carry them out, leaving Yiyan alone in the tent. His gaze swept through the military tent where he had stayed for months and landed on the bed in the inner room. His expression turned somewhat melancholic and sorrowful. After a moment of hesitation, Yiyan finally took a step, walked to the bedside, reached out, and from the head of the bed, he took out a small wooden box.
His fingers glided smoothly over the polished lid of the box that reflected shadows. Yiyan opened the box and took out something cherished for a long time. It was a small Buddha statue, delicate and vivid, like a blooming lotus untouched by worldly dust.
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It was something he should have given away. Given to his beloved.
Taking a deep breath, Yiyan cut off a section of silk thread, tied it around the Buddha statue, and then looped it around his neck. The smooth and flawless white jade, slipping into the collar, fell onto his chest, pressing against his skin and instantly warming up. After a slight touch on his chest, Yiyan no longer lingered, striding decisively outside the tent.
The next day, two thousand riders, escorting the carriage that brought Wei Tong, headed towards You County. Another group of a hundred light cavalry also left Ji County, galloping swiftly towards Wei County.
In less than a day, this small squad entered Ye City, encountering no obstacles and directly barging into the Prefect’s Mansion.
Wang Ping had been anxious about the death of Prince Donghai these days, especially worried about his cousin Wang Yan possibly facing consequences. Now, hearing the report from the servants that Liu Gong was requesting an audience, he couldn’t help but be stunned. Wasn’t this person one of Yiyan’s trusted aides? Why did he suddenly return from Ji County?
Although he found it inappropriate, Wang Ping, feeling a bit annoyed, adjusted his attire and composedly said, “Let him in.”
With a sword at his side and wearing shoes, Liu Gong strode into Wang Ping’s study. Ignoring the surprise in Wang Ping’s expression, he respectfully said, “In the name of our general, I’ve come specifically to request something from Lord Prefect.”
Wang Ping widened his eyes, “Request, request what?”
His body involuntarily trembled, like a mouse in a hole sensing the presence of a cat.
Without answering, Liu Gong swiftly unsheathed his long sword. A bright and cold light flashed, blood splattered, and with a thud, a large head fell onto the table.
Ignoring the horrified screams of the maidservants nearby, Liu Gong bent down, picked up the severed head, and coldly said, “Borrowing a head for a moment.”
