After issuing the military order, Liang Feng waited anxiously every day for a reply from Ji County. Wang Jun’s large army could reach the border of You County and Bing County within a few days, and every moment was crucial. However, when the hastily transmitted news was placed on his desk, he was so shocked that he almost jumped up.
“What? Yiyan led a light cavalry to join Wang Jun’s camp?!”
This wasn’t even news delivered by Yiyan but a frontline report. He, the commanding general stationed in Ji County, the key figure in deciding victory or defeat, had defected to Wang Jun?! If anyone else heard this news, they would probably be on the verge of a breakdown, but not Liang Feng. Instead, his hands trembled, “He wants… to feign surrender and break through the enemy camp!”
As soon as these words were spoken, everyone’s breath seemed to pause. The suspicions that had just arisen were shattered by this revelation. Indeed, there was another possibility for his actions—Yiyan might be feigning surrender, intending to take advantage and breach Wang Jun’s main camp! But he only brought two thousand soldiers!
Zhang Bin was the first to regain his composure, “Lord, we need to contact Ye City as soon as possible. General Yi will surely send a messenger.”
Making decisions without reporting to the higher command and acting independently showed an astounding level of courage. However, no matter how audacious, Yiyan wouldn’t have taken such a risky step without sending a military report. The best course of action now was to quickly confirm his intentions and then act accordingly. Although shocked, Zhang Bin had to admit that it was a bold strategy. If successful, the situation would immediately reverse, and there would be a chance of victory for Bing County.
However, regardless of the situation, they needed to obtain the military report first!
Sun Li seemed a bit hesitant, “But with only two thousand light cavalry, what can they do? Wang Jun’s main camp has forty thousand elite soldiers. If General Yi takes such a risk and fails in a single blow… It’s better to wait for news from the front and then prepare.”
This approach was more conservative. However, with this statement, Sun Li’s hesitation wasn’t surprising. Two thousand against forty thousand, as long as one wasn’t crazy or foolish, they should understand that this was a path of no return. If they failed, wouldn’t it be adding insult to injury?
Zhang Bin hesitated but did not argue. In his view, considering Yiyan’s military prowess, causing chaos in Wang Jun’s main camp shouldn’t be difficult. However, how to take Wang Jun’s life and escape from the chaotic army was indeed hard to imagine. It was like watching those legendary battle examples in military books – before concluding, no one could determine whether the leader of the army could turn the situation around and escape death.
Therefore, the suggestions of these strategists were no longer significant. It all depended on how the lord would choose.
All eyes turned toward the lord’s seat.
Liang Feng’s hand continued to tremble, as if addicted, unable to stop. However, he still spoke, his voice without a trace of hesitation, “Issue the order to mobilize the troops. Sun Jiao takes the lead, and Tian Yun assists. Cut off the enemy’s retreat!”
What? Sun Li was so anxious that he took a step forward, “My lord, the enemy camp has not been breached, how can we act like this…”
He didn’t finish his sentence when Liang Feng turned to look at him. Those eyes sparkled with a chilling light, not like an ailing scholar at all but rather a general drenched in blood, fighting on the front lines.
“He won’t lose! The military situation is urgent; we can’t afford any delay!”
Two sentences, resounding!
The lord harbored no suspicion, and didn’t even mention the mere two thousand soldiers! He simply said Yiyan would win, time was of the essence!
How could it not be urgent? The news from Ji County would take at least two days to arrive, and by now, Yiyan might have already reached Wang Jun’s main camp. Whether it was today or tomorrow, he would launch an attack. Transmitting orders from Jinyang to Shang’ai, preparing for an army mobilization, would take at least two days. By then, would Wang Jun’s main camp already be breached? Would the Zhao County troops, under Yiyan’s command, have attacked Changshan County?
One day sooner or later, it decided the key to victory or defeat, the lives of thousands. And the lord did not hesitate! Did not doubt!
Zhang Bin’s hand also trembled; he firmly pressed down on his knees, “I am willing to personally go to Leping, coordinate with General Yi, and drive away the Xianbei and Hu horses!”
Liang Feng nodded and added, “Send a message to the Tuoba tribe, tell them that as long as they can stop the fleeing Xianbei near Daijun, let them occupy it!”
“I understand your command!” Zhang Bin solemnly bowed his head. This battle was no longer just about Bing County; all available resources had to be fully utilized!
Liang Feng turned his head again and looked at Sun Li, saying in a cold tone, “Keep a close watch on the major and minor aristocratic families in Taiyuan. If anyone rebels, annihilate the entire clan!”
Sun Li felt a chill all over; this was an unprecedented martial law order, revealing a strong killing intent. However, after a brief moment of palpitations, a surge of determination rose in his chest, and he respectfully said, “I will thoroughly clean Taiyuan for my lord!”
This is wartime, a critical moment where life and death hang in the balance. Anyone who dares to rebel will be ruthlessly eliminated!
“Very well.” Liang Feng slowly clenched his fist, holding the tremor in the palm of his hand. “In this battle, we must make sure that Wang Jun has no way to retreat!”
Yiyan was risking his life on the front lines, sacrificing himself for the cause. Liang Feng couldn’t afford to waste this rare opportunity!
※
“How does General Yi view this camp?” At the same moment, Wei Tong had already stepped down from his carriage and raised an eyebrow, addressing Yiyan.
As both were cavalry units, after two days of marching, this force finally crossed through Ji County and entered the territory of You County. Wang Jun’s main camp was stationed near Fanyang. A force of forty thousand soldiers couldn’t possibly fit inside a city. Wang Jun had no intention of staying cramped within the city walls and directly set up his main tent within the military formation.
As the appointed Grand General of the Cavalry, commanding the two provinces of You and Ping, what kind of military presence did Wang Jun’s trusted guards have? As far as the eye could see, it was all tents, stretching endlessly like the wilderness, with no visible end. Banners fluttered, warhorses neighed, and even the soldiers were all in armor, exuding an aura of solemnity and killing.
Yiyan squinted, “General Wang’s army is formidable, and the camp is solidly built. It truly makes one awe-inspired.”
Hearing this, Wei Tong burst into laughter, “General Yi is now under the command of the Grand General; it’s only natural for others to be in awe. Let’s enter the camp together!”
While Wei Tong’s words were polite, the arrangements were exceptionally meticulous. Yiyan’s two thousand soldiers were surrounded by three or four layers of fortifications, with the main tent three miles away. Not to mention posing a threat, even paying a visit required considerable effort.
Facing such precautions, Yiyan showed no resistance and calmly stationed his troops. This attitude eased the last trace of suspicion in Wang Jun’s mind, prompting him to invite Yiyan into his tent for a discussion.
With just two or three personal guards, Yiyan approached the grand tent. This military tent was expansive, bearing a distinct nomadic style with inner and outer compartments. The outer part served as a hall for receiving subordinates, separated in the middle, while the rest consisted of resting quarters. However, both front and back were filled with soldiers, heavily guarded.
Guided by Wei Tong, Yiyan strode into the military tent and immediately spotted the figure seated at the main position. Wang Jun, over fifty years old, maintained a robust appearance with jet-black hair and beard, appearing vigorous and devoid of aging. He bore a resemblance to his younger cousin, Wang Wen, possessing the charisma typical of top-tier military commanders. Yet, his fox-like, narrow eyes added a hint of cunning and fierceness to his countenance.
“I pay my respects to Grand General!” With just a glance, Yiyan approached and knelt with one knee on the ground.
While Yiyan assessed Wang Jun, the latter also carefully observed this formidable general. Aware that this man was of the Jie ethnicity, Wang Jun hadn’t expected him to have such a typical nomadic appearance, exuding a fierce aura. Such a visage would likely be unwelcome even in other commanders’ tents, explaining the rift with Liang Zixi. Nevertheless, this situation worked to Wang Jun’s advantage.
After a brief appraisal, Wang Jun praised, stroking his beard, “I’ve heard earlier that Liang Zixi has a formidable general under his command. I never expected someone so young and accomplished! General Yi, please rise.”
After expressing gratitude once again, Yiyan stood up.
Without much pleasantries, Wang Jun cut to the chase, “We are currently discussing the matter of attacking Bing County in the tent. General Yi, being from Shangdang, should be well-versed in the military affairs of the province. Can you share your insights?”
While phrased as a question, the tone left no doubt—it was not merely an inquiry. This was the first test for Yiyan, assessing whether he genuinely came to surrender or had ulterior motives.
Yiyan clasped his hands and said, “I left Bing County half a year ago. The military strength in Bing County has expanded rapidly, and I’m afraid the defensive arrangements have likely changed. However, certain fundamentals remain unchanged. Bing County’s strength lies in its military equipment. The Thunderbolt Cannons and Crossbow Formations alone are sufficient to defend the city effectively.”
His words were straightforward, matching the frontline reports precisely. Wang Jun couldn’t help but lean on the table, eagerly asking, “Is there a way to break through?”
“Use their spear to attack their shield,” Yiyan declared loudly. “Only the Thunderbolt Cannons can break their formation!”
This suggestion had been raised by Wang Jun’s strategists before. The previous forces sent to Bing County consisted mainly of light cavalry with minimal siege weaponry, resulting in significant losses. If siege weapons were increased, could the forces in Bing County still handle the situation? However, this advice alone was insufficient. After contemplating for a moment, Wang Jun asked, “What about the Crossbow Formations? We can’t use Thunderbolt Cannons for everything, can we?”
“Shield and armor should be employed against crossbows, not engaging in a direct confrontation. Moreover, Bing County’s troops have a weakness—they expanded their forces too rapidly, making it challenging for soldiers to undergo proper training. Once an opportunity arises, it should be exploitable!” Yiyan’s response remained unequivocal.
Wang Jun’s brows furrowed, “But the large army I sent hasn’t gained an advantage in infantry or cavalry battles.”
“They might not be familiar with the terrain, deceived by fortresses and forests,” Yiyan smirked. “Bing County is unlike Ji County; it lacks open plains suitable for mounted archery. Only someone familiar with the geography can guard against surprise attacks. However, there may be other ways…”
He didn’t finish his sentence and abruptly stopped. Wang Jun inquired, “What other methods?”
Seeming somewhat apologetic, Yiyan bowed, “This requires me to understand the strengths of the soldiers under the Grand General’s command before determining a strategy.”
While his words were straightforward, Wang Jun, being an astute individual, perceived the underlying meaning. Yiyan, coming to surrender, was providing advice right upon meeting, which seemed flawless. However, he hadn’t mentioned the promised matters, inevitably breeding dissatisfaction. This Jie commander, though bold and unyielding, was also detestable.
Yet, this was precisely the kind of character Wang Jun sought. How many barbarians had he recruited under his command? How could he not understand their mindset? Chuckling, Wang Jun said, “General Yi’s words are right. It was my neglect that led to the oversight of our distinguished guest. Tonight, I will host a feast in the tent, and I request General Yi’s presence.”
“Your generosity is beyond my deserving. Many thanks, Grand General!” Yiyan expressed his gratitude once again, kneeling to show his appreciation. His lowered eyelids concealed any emotions.
With the evening banquet, Wang Jun naturally wouldn’t press further for inquiries. Accompanied by his personal guards, Yiyan returned to his camp. After two days of travel, he was undoubtedly fatigued. However, without even removing his armor, he briskly entered his tent and asked the officer guarding the camp in a low voice, “How much longer until Liu Ying arrives?”
“He’s rushing here on a fast horse and should arrive by evening,” the trusted subordinate replied in a hushed tone.
“Tell him to slow down a bit; he should arrive just before sealing the camp,” Yiyan instructed. The weight that had been hanging over his heart finally lifted. Liu Ying was efficient, and his arrival had to be timed perfectly.
Wang Jun was no fool. He might be able to handle today’s probing, but what about the future? Any false statement could raise suspicions, jeopardizing the overall plan. It was imperative to quicken the pace. In this heavily guarded camp, was there a better opportunity than tonight?
Exhaling softly, Yiyan walked to the table and issued instructions, “Tonight is the moment of action. You must prepare yourselves mentally and act according to the plan…”
After issuing the military order, Liang Feng waited anxiously every day for a reply from Ji County. Wang Jun’s large army could reach the border of You County and Bing County within a few days, and every moment was crucial. However, when the hastily transmitted news was placed on his desk, he was so shocked that he almost jumped up.
“What? Yiyan led a light cavalry to join Wang Jun’s camp?!”
This wasn’t even news delivered by Yiyan but a frontline report. He, the commanding general stationed in Ji County, the key figure in deciding victory or defeat, had defected to Wang Jun?! If anyone else heard this news, they would probably be on the verge of a breakdown, but not Liang Feng. Instead, his hands trembled, “He wants… to feign surrender and break through the enemy camp!”
As soon as these words were spoken, everyone’s breath seemed to pause. The suspicions that had just arisen were shattered by this revelation. Indeed, there was another possibility for his actions—Yiyan might be feigning surrender, intending to take advantage and breach Wang Jun’s main camp! But he only brought two thousand soldiers!
Zhang Bin was the first to regain his composure, “Lord, we need to contact Ye City as soon as possible. General Yi will surely send a messenger.”
Making decisions without reporting to the higher command and acting independently showed an astounding level of courage. However, no matter how audacious, Yiyan wouldn’t have taken such a risky step without sending a military report. The best course of action now was to quickly confirm his intentions and then act accordingly. Although shocked, Zhang Bin had to admit that it was a bold strategy. If successful, the situation would immediately reverse, and there would be a chance of victory for Bing County.
However, regardless of the situation, they needed to obtain the military report first!
Sun Li seemed a bit hesitant, “But with only two thousand light cavalry, what can they do? Wang Jun’s main camp has forty thousand elite soldiers. If General Yi takes such a risk and fails in a single blow… It’s better to wait for news from the front and then prepare.”
This approach was more conservative. However, with this statement, Sun Li’s hesitation wasn’t surprising. Two thousand against forty thousand, as long as one wasn’t crazy or foolish, they should understand that this was a path of no return. If they failed, wouldn’t it be adding insult to injury?
Zhang Bin hesitated but did not argue. In his view, considering Yiyan’s military prowess, causing chaos in Wang Jun’s main camp shouldn’t be difficult. However, how to take Wang Jun’s life and escape from the chaotic army was indeed hard to imagine. It was like watching those legendary battle examples in military books – before concluding, no one could determine whether the leader of the army could turn the situation around and escape death.
Therefore, the suggestions of these strategists were no longer significant. It all depended on how the lord would choose.
All eyes turned toward the lord’s seat.
Liang Feng’s hand continued to tremble, as if addicted, unable to stop. However, he still spoke, his voice without a trace of hesitation, “Issue the order to mobilize the troops. Sun Jiao takes the lead, and Tian Yun assists. Cut off the enemy’s retreat!”
What? Sun Li was so anxious that he took a step forward, “My lord, the enemy camp has not been breached, how can we act like this…”
He didn’t finish his sentence when Liang Feng turned to look at him. Those eyes sparkled with a chilling light, not like an ailing scholar at all but rather a general drenched in blood, fighting on the front lines.
“He won’t lose! The military situation is urgent; we can’t afford any delay!”
Two sentences, resounding!
The lord harbored no suspicion, and didn’t even mention the mere two thousand soldiers! He simply said Yiyan would win, time was of the essence!
How could it not be urgent? The news from Ji County would take at least two days to arrive, and by now, Yiyan might have already reached Wang Jun’s main camp. Whether it was today or tomorrow, he would launch an attack. Transmitting orders from Jinyang to Shang’ai, preparing for an army mobilization, would take at least two days. By then, would Wang Jun’s main camp already be breached? Would the Zhao County troops, under Yiyan’s command, have attacked Changshan County?
One day sooner or later, it decided the key to victory or defeat, the lives of thousands. And the lord did not hesitate! Did not doubt!
Zhang Bin’s hand also trembled; he firmly pressed down on his knees, “I am willing to personally go to Leping, coordinate with General Yi, and drive away the Xianbei and Hu horses!”
Liang Feng nodded and added, “Send a message to the Tuoba tribe, tell them that as long as they can stop the fleeing Xianbei near Daijun, let them occupy it!”
“I understand your command!” Zhang Bin solemnly bowed his head. This battle was no longer just about Bing County; all available resources had to be fully utilized!
Liang Feng turned his head again and looked at Sun Li, saying in a cold tone, “Keep a close watch on the major and minor aristocratic families in Taiyuan. If anyone rebels, annihilate the entire clan!”
Sun Li felt a chill all over; this was an unprecedented martial law order, revealing a strong killing intent. However, after a brief moment of palpitations, a surge of determination rose in his chest, and he respectfully said, “I will thoroughly clean Taiyuan for my lord!”
This is wartime, a critical moment where life and death hang in the balance. Anyone who dares to rebel will be ruthlessly eliminated!
“Very well.” Liang Feng slowly clenched his fist, holding the tremor in the palm of his hand. “In this battle, we must make sure that Wang Jun has no way to retreat!”
Yiyan was risking his life on the front lines, sacrificing himself for the cause. Liang Feng couldn’t afford to waste this rare opportunity!
※
“How does General Yi view this camp?” At the same moment, Wei Tong had already stepped down from his carriage and raised an eyebrow, addressing Yiyan.
As both were cavalry units, after two days of marching, this force finally crossed through Ji County and entered the territory of You County. Wang Jun’s main camp was stationed near Fanyang. A force of forty thousand soldiers couldn’t possibly fit inside a city. Wang Jun had no intention of staying cramped within the city walls and directly set up his main tent within the military formation.
As the appointed Grand General of the Cavalry, commanding the two provinces of You and Ping, what kind of military presence did Wang Jun’s trusted guards have? As far as the eye could see, it was all tents, stretching endlessly like the wilderness, with no visible end. Banners fluttered, warhorses neighed, and even the soldiers were all in armor, exuding an aura of solemnity and killing.
Yiyan squinted, “General Wang’s army is formidable, and the camp is solidly built. It truly makes one awe-inspired.”
Hearing this, Wei Tong burst into laughter, “General Yi is now under the command of the Grand General; it’s only natural for others to be in awe. Let’s enter the camp together!”
While Wei Tong’s words were polite, the arrangements were exceptionally meticulous. Yiyan’s two thousand soldiers were surrounded by three or four layers of fortifications, with the main tent three miles away. Not to mention posing a threat, even paying a visit required considerable effort.
Facing such precautions, Yiyan showed no resistance and calmly stationed his troops. This attitude eased the last trace of suspicion in Wang Jun’s mind, prompting him to invite Yiyan into his tent for a discussion.
With just two or three personal guards, Yiyan approached the grand tent. This military tent was expansive, bearing a distinct nomadic style with inner and outer compartments. The outer part served as a hall for receiving subordinates, separated in the middle, while the rest consisted of resting quarters. However, both front and back were filled with soldiers, heavily guarded.
Guided by Wei Tong, Yiyan strode into the military tent and immediately spotted the figure seated at the main position. Wang Jun, over fifty years old, maintained a robust appearance with jet-black hair and beard, appearing vigorous and devoid of aging. He bore a resemblance to his younger cousin, Wang Wen, possessing the charisma typical of top-tier military commanders. Yet, his fox-like, narrow eyes added a hint of cunning and fierceness to his countenance.
“I pay my respects to Grand General!” With just a glance, Yiyan approached and knelt with one knee on the ground.
While Yiyan assessed Wang Jun, the latter also carefully observed this formidable general. Aware that this man was of the Jie ethnicity, Wang Jun hadn’t expected him to have such a typical nomadic appearance, exuding a fierce aura. Such a visage would likely be unwelcome even in other commanders’ tents, explaining the rift with Liang Zixi. Nevertheless, this situation worked to Wang Jun’s advantage.
After a brief appraisal, Wang Jun praised, stroking his beard, “I’ve heard earlier that Liang Zixi has a formidable general under his command. I never expected someone so young and accomplished! General Yi, please rise.”
After expressing gratitude once again, Yiyan stood up.
Without much pleasantries, Wang Jun cut to the chase, “We are currently discussing the matter of attacking Bing County in the tent. General Yi, being from Shangdang, should be well-versed in the military affairs of the province. Can you share your insights?”
While phrased as a question, the tone left no doubt—it was not merely an inquiry. This was the first test for Yiyan, assessing whether he genuinely came to surrender or had ulterior motives.
Yiyan clasped his hands and said, “I left Bing County half a year ago. The military strength in Bing County has expanded rapidly, and I’m afraid the defensive arrangements have likely changed. However, certain fundamentals remain unchanged. Bing County’s strength lies in its military equipment. The Thunderbolt Cannons and Crossbow Formations alone are sufficient to defend the city effectively.”
His words were straightforward, matching the frontline reports precisely. Wang Jun couldn’t help but lean on the table, eagerly asking, “Is there a way to break through?”
“Use their spear to attack their shield,” Yiyan declared loudly. “Only the Thunderbolt Cannons can break their formation!”
This suggestion had been raised by Wang Jun’s strategists before. The previous forces sent to Bing County consisted mainly of light cavalry with minimal siege weaponry, resulting in significant losses. If siege weapons were increased, could the forces in Bing County still handle the situation? However, this advice alone was insufficient. After contemplating for a moment, Wang Jun asked, “What about the Crossbow Formations? We can’t use Thunderbolt Cannons for everything, can we?”
“Shield and armor should be employed against crossbows, not engaging in a direct confrontation. Moreover, Bing County’s troops have a weakness—they expanded their forces too rapidly, making it challenging for soldiers to undergo proper training. Once an opportunity arises, it should be exploitable!” Yiyan’s response remained unequivocal.
Wang Jun’s brows furrowed, “But the large army I sent hasn’t gained an advantage in infantry or cavalry battles.”
“They might not be familiar with the terrain, deceived by fortresses and forests,” Yiyan smirked. “Bing County is unlike Ji County; it lacks open plains suitable for mounted archery. Only someone familiar with the geography can guard against surprise attacks. However, there may be other ways…”
He didn’t finish his sentence and abruptly stopped. Wang Jun inquired, “What other methods?”
Seeming somewhat apologetic, Yiyan bowed, “This requires me to understand the strengths of the soldiers under the Grand General’s command before determining a strategy.”
While his words were straightforward, Wang Jun, being an astute individual, perceived the underlying meaning. Yiyan, coming to surrender, was providing advice right upon meeting, which seemed flawless. However, he hadn’t mentioned the promised matters, inevitably breeding dissatisfaction. This Jie commander, though bold and unyielding, was also detestable.
Yet, this was precisely the kind of character Wang Jun sought. How many barbarians had he recruited under his command? How could he not understand their mindset? Chuckling, Wang Jun said, “General Yi’s words are right. It was my neglect that led to the oversight of our distinguished guest. Tonight, I will host a feast in the tent, and I request General Yi’s presence.”
“Your generosity is beyond my deserving. Many thanks, Grand General!” Yiyan expressed his gratitude once again, kneeling to show his appreciation. His lowered eyelids concealed any emotions.
With the evening banquet, Wang Jun naturally wouldn’t press further for inquiries. Accompanied by his personal guards, Yiyan returned to his camp. After two days of travel, he was undoubtedly fatigued. However, without even removing his armor, he briskly entered his tent and asked the officer guarding the camp in a low voice, “How much longer until Liu Ying arrives?”
“He’s rushing here on a fast horse and should arrive by evening,” the trusted subordinate replied in a hushed tone.
“Tell him to slow down a bit; he should arrive just before sealing the camp,” Yiyan instructed. The weight that had been hanging over his heart finally lifted. Liu Ying was efficient, and his arrival had to be timed perfectly.
Wang Jun was no fool. He might be able to handle today’s probing, but what about the future? Any false statement could raise suspicions, jeopardizing the overall plan. It was imperative to quicken the pace. In this heavily guarded camp, was there a better opportunity than tonight?
Exhaling softly, Yiyan walked to the table and issued instructions, “Tonight is the moment of action. You must prepare yourselves mentally and act according to the plan…”
