Weird Three Kingdoms

Chapter 3873 It Must Be Done in Adversity
Inside the central command tent, after Huang Cheng's generous request to fight, the atmosphere became somewhat tense.

Fei Qian did not give the order immediately, but instead asked Huang Cheng to sit down and had some tea served.

As the tea steamed, Fei Qian pondered.

Fei Qian could also understand Huang Cheng's motives for requesting the order.

Firstly, there were indeed gaps in the defenses at Gongxian, so Huang Cheng's request to fight was understandable. In a sense, it was also an opportunity for battle, but Huang Cheng's eagerness suggested something far more than just a lack of intelligence.

Huang Cheng came from the Huang clan of Jingxiang and was one of the early representatives of local forces that relied on the Flying Cavalry system.

However, as the General of the Cavalry grew stronger, a group of generals emerged, including Xu Huang, Zhao Yun, Zhang Liao, Taishi Ci, and even the recently meritorious Huang Zhong. In terms of both achievements and abilities, they were subtly superior to Huang Cheng, the "old man"...

Although Huang Cheng may have guessed that Fei Qian had brought him here to give him a better opportunity to showcase his abilities, the invisible pressure and anxiety he felt were bound to increase day by day.

Huang Cheng also urgently needed a decisive victory that would demonstrate his bravery and value, in order to solidify his position in the army, respond to any potential doubts, and add leverage to the future of the Huang clan in Jingxiang.

So instead of tackling tough challenges later, why not find an easy target first?
This seemingly easy opening in Gongxian County was precisely the best outlet for Huang Cheng to release pressure and prove himself.

So, should Huang Cheng's request to fight be approved or not?
Fei Qian's gaze swept over the strategists inside the tent.

Du Ji lowered his eyelids, seemingly staring intently at the patterns on his desk, as if they contained unparalleled military strategies.

Du Ji was known for his steadiness and pragmatism.

This time, Du Ji was transferred to the army precisely because Fei Qian had this in mind.

At the same time, Du Ji was from Guanzhong and had not served the longest, so he was always cautious in front of many veteran officials and generals.

Fei Qian didn't believe that Du Ji was unaware of Huang Cheng's thoughts and the risks they posed, but...

Du Ji must have had his own concerns.

After all, the Huang family of Jingxiang and Fei Qian had a deep-rooted relationship. If Du Ji were to offer advice or reminders at this time, regardless of whether it was right or wrong, it could be interpreted as an obstacle to the Huang family's merits, needlessly making enemies...

Therefore, Du Ji remained silent.

On the other side, Jia Qu frowned, his face ashen. Seeing Fei Qian's gaze, he shook his head slightly but remained silent.

Fei Qian could understand Jia Qu's current choice.

Jia Qu had joined Cao Cao's army relatively early and had worked with Huang Cheng in Bingzhou and Hedong, developing a good personal relationship. For Jia Qu, this matter presented a dilemma. Officially, he noticed Huang Cheng's somewhat impetuous attitude; even with low morale, the Cao army was fighting like cornered beasts. Would a direct attack on their obvious weaknesses play right into their hands? Should he then advise Huang Cheng to conduct careful reconnaissance and proceed cautiously?
Privately, if he spoke frankly, he feared it would damage his relationship with Huang Cheng, and might even be misunderstood as jealousy or contempt. Therefore, when Fei Qian cast his gaze at him, he first denied it, but was still carefully considering his words, trying to find a way to express his concerns without hurting the harmony. Thus, he looked thoughtful and remained silent for a moment.

And Sima Yi...

When Fei Qian's gaze fell on Sima Yi's face, the other man slightly raised his head, looked at Huang Cheng, and smiled.

That smile was neither mockery nor agreement.

It's more like a profound understanding of the key points of the game...

Noticing Fei Qian's gaze, Sima Yi raised his hand and cupped his hands in a gesture of respect, as if to indicate...

Why not ask me?

"Zhongda," Fei Qian asked, "have you heard what General Huang said? Do you have any suggestions?"

Upon hearing this, Sima Yi calmly stepped forward, bowed respectfully, his eyes clear and bright, his tone even yet each word distinct: "My lord, you are wise. General Huang has spotted the enemy city's weaknesses and his eagerness to engage is commendable. The Cao army has suffered repeated defeats, morale is low, and the defenses of Gong County are inadequate—these are all true."

"However..." Sima Yi's tone shifted, becoming slightly somber, "Cao Mengde's military tactics have always emphasized the interplay of deception and reality. To use deception to appear real, and reality to appear deception, is a fundamental principle of military strategy. Now, looking at Gongxian, the flaws are so obvious, the repairs so sloppy, it's almost like the gates are wide open, luring the enemy deep inside. With Cao's abilities, even if his soldiers lack the will to fight, how could they not know that this place is a matter of life and death?"

Sima Yi bowed to Huang Cheng again, saying, "Huang Zhonglang, I believe that the weakness at Gong County is most likely a repeat of Cao Cao's old tricks. They appear scattered and unprepared, but in reality, they harbor deadly intent. They may have ambushed elite troops behind the ruins, or planted oil in narrow passages, or even... buried gunpowder. When our main force pours in, thinking they have the upper hand, they will suddenly launch an attack... If we are not careful, we fear there will be losses."

Sima Yi did not immediately accuse Huang Cheng of being impatient. Instead, he cleverly changed the question of whether or not to attack into how to prevent risks. This approach was naturally more acceptable to Huang Cheng than a direct rejection.

Du Ji raised his head and glanced at Sima Yi.

Jia Qu glanced at Huang Cheng from the side...

Upon hearing Sima Yi's words, Huang Cheng's expression changed slightly, but he did not refute them.

After all, what Sima Yi said was something he hadn't thought deeply about in his moment of passion.

Sima Yi continued, his gaze calmly meeting Fei Qian's, the meaning of which was self-evident: "However, now that the opportunity has presented itself, it must not be missed. The key lies in both catching them off guard and being prepared for their feints. During the siege, we must also be adaptable at any time, avoiding reckless advances that could result in unnecessary losses."

Although Sima Yi did not say it explicitly, his expression and demeanor were practically saying, "It is most appropriate to entrust this matter to me for assistance"...

Fei Qian gazed at Sima Yi for a moment, then looked at Huang Cheng, whose expression had become serious, and smiled, "Zhongda's thoughts are thorough and his insightful observations are excellent."

Fei Qian looked at Huang Cheng, "Uncle Huang!"

"Your subordinate is here!" Huang Cheng's spirits lifted.

Fei Qian gave a deep order: "You shall lead your troops and continue the main attack... but do not be hasty or reckless! Sima Zhongda shall accompany you, to assist in military affairs and coordinate the order of the attack! The two of you must cooperate closely, prioritizing the capture of the city and minimizing casualties! There must be no mistakes!"

Although Huang Cheng felt slightly constrained, he understood that this was a prudent and experienced move that would better ensure victory. He immediately clasped his hands in a fist and said, "This subordinate obeys! I will certainly work together with Military Advisor Sima to conquer this Gong County!"

Sima Yi bowed deeply, saying, "I obey. I will do everything in my power to help General Huang achieve complete victory."

Fei Qian nodded, dismissed Huang Cheng and Sima Yi, and prepared to go to Gong County. He then gave some instructions to Du Ji to handle.

After everyone had left the main tent, Fei Qian looked at Jia Qu and asked, "Why didn't Liang Dao speak frankly just now? Was there something you were hesitant about?"

Du Ji was new to the central government, and Fei Qian could understand his silence. However, Fei Qian didn't understand why Jia Qu, despite clearly sensing something was wrong, hadn't spoken up directly...

Jia Qu bowed respectfully to Fei Qian, his expression calm and open, and slowly spoke, "My lord is wise. It's not that I didn't want to speak, but I had some concerns, not for personal reasons, but for the sake of public affairs."

"Firstly, consider his temperament. Huang Shuye's eagerness to fight is like a newly sharpened blade, its edge still gleaming. To directly criticize his impetuousness at this time would be like pouring ice water on hot iron, likely provoking his rebellious spirit and undermining his composure in battle. Managing a general is like controlling a horse; pulling the reins too hard during a gallop will easily startle its hooves. Sima Zhongda used deception to counteract resistance, transforming rigidity into flexibility, much like guiding a horse around a pit without whipping its head—this is the wisdom of adapting to the situation. Since he has already spoken, if Qu were to echo his cautious stance, it would be like double-hooking him, only hindering General Huang and not only being of no benefit but also potentially damaging his decisiveness in battle."

Secondly, consider his position and influence. General Huang is a veteran of the Jingzhou region, a respected elder in the army. If Qu publicly criticizes his eagerness for quick success, even if it is done with public interest in mind, it will inevitably be misinterpreted as suppressing merit and belittling a general. Although Qu has a past relationship with Shuye, at this juncture, personal friendship becomes a shackle. If his words are misinterpreted as sacrificing public interest for personal gain, it will only damage the harmony between the generals, and what good will it do for the overall situation?

"Thirdly..." Jia Qu paused slightly, then bowed respectfully, "I am concerned about the Lord's intention to test him. Since the Lord has summoned Shuye to join the army, he must have intended to hone and refine him. The lessons learned on the battlefield are more valuable than mere criticism. If he suffers a minor setback, he may gain true insight. If I, Qu, am too eager to take over, I will only hinder the Lord's intention to train him. Moreover..."

Jia Qu's voice deepened slightly. "Sima Zhongda's strategy is like a hidden sheath, concealing its sharpness. It prevents rash advances without jeopardizing the main attack. The game is already won; if I were to speak further, it would be superfluous. Therefore, it's not that I have nothing to say, but rather that there's no need to say anything... Since my lord has already seen the whole picture, why should I add anything unnecessary?"

Having said this, Jia Qu bowed again, saying, "For a general, the key lies in making decisive decisions on the spot; for a strategist, the key lies in assessing the situation and speaking cautiously. In today's circumstances, silence is worse than words, and tact is worse than directness. This is not to evade responsibility, but to wait until the lord inquires before laying bare my heart and soul. Now that the lord has asked, how dare I not speak my mind?"

Upon hearing this, Fei Qian nodded in approval.

……

……

Elsewhere, Sima Yi returned to his military tent to pack, but there wasn't much luggage to deal with.

A few frequently read military and historical books, some finely marked maps, and personal clothing were all he had.

Sima Yi moved with composure, placing the items into a worn leather bag, as if he were not going to participate in a fierce siege battle, but rather on a routine inspection tour.

His trusted aides were also helping to tidy up, glancing at Sima Yi before busying themselves for a moment, then glancing again… "Speak plainly…"

Sima Yi didn't even raise his head; he simply rolled up the map and tied it with a silk ribbon.

The confidant leaned closer and lowered his voice, "General, this...this matter with the captain...there was quite a bit of private discussion in the army about what happened before...Although the General didn't punish him,...now is the time for such a heated debate. Why doesn't the military advisor tone down his efforts and avoid the noise for a while? This time, by offering a suggestion and taking on this assistant command, won't you attract even more attention? I'm afraid General Huang might not appreciate it, and if he becomes suspicious, wouldn't that be..."

Upon hearing this, Sima Yi smiled, continuing to tidy up as he replied, "What you're worried about is common sense."

Sima Yi's voice was steady, with a clear and insightful tone, "But you only know to avoid the limelight, yet you don't understand the nature of the wind... The more you cower and hide, the more the rumors and gossip will fester like a bone-deep sore, impossible to shake off. People's suspicions... Heh, the more you retreat, the more turbulent they become..."

Sima Yi gestured to his trusted aides to help him put on his armor, saying, "Our lord has said that actions speak louder than words, and deeds are more important than intentions… Since you know that public opinion can be devastating, what's the point of arguing? It only adds to the argument and makes you look foolish."

Sima Yi stretched out his arm, donned his armor, and then adjusted the armor plates. His tone was calm. "Regarding the matter of the colonel… well, what I did was to plan for the overall victory of my lord. My actions and achievements lie here. Some criticism stems from others' misunderstanding, or perhaps from… heh heh. If I were to shrink back because of this, constantly feigning weakness to avoid suspicion, I would be branded as guilty and suspected of favoritism… At that time, everyone would think I was nothing more than a cunning but self-serving courtier, someone who could share wealth but not hardship… Let alone achieving great deeds, even establishing myself requires relying on others…"

The close confidants seemed to understand but not quite, their faces showing doubt.

Sima Yi glanced at him, "Therefore, at this time, we must not only not keep a low profile, but also display our prowess, do extraordinary things, and achieve visible results. General Huang is eager for merit, and his subordinates also hope that their commander will win and show off his power. My purpose in going there is not to share the credit, but to help him succeed. When Gong County is captured and the news of victory spreads, everyone will not only see General Huang's achievement of slaying generals and capturing cities, but they will also know that without my planning and assistance in eliminating hidden dangers, this achievement may not have been complete, and the casualties may have been even greater..."

A glint of shrewdness flashed in his eyes: 'What will those who are gossiping be like then? After this battle, they will know that listening to my words is the key to victory. This tangible benefit far surpasses a thousand speculations and ten thousand rumors.'

"As for those who still harbor resentment..." Sima Yi lightly adjusted his cuffs, his tone indifferent, "Seeing that I am increasingly valued and my actions are becoming more effective, their words will gradually fade away, or perhaps turn into envy, jealousy, or fear... Now, under your command, my lord, there are many capable and wise men. If I conceal my talents, I fear I will truly be considered foolish..."

Sima Yi finally looked at his trusted confidants, his gaze profound. "By displaying one's abilities, one can pierce through gossip and solidify one's foundation. Let everyone see clearly what kind of person I am, what I can do… This is the way to ensure long-term self-preservation and advancement."

The attendant suddenly realized, "Our lord's strategic thinking and foresight are beyond the reach of petty men."

Sima Yi said no more, signaled his confidants to pick up their bags, and then lifted the curtain to leave.

……

……

Inside Sishui Pass, in the room temporarily used as the Prime Minister's office, the charcoal brazier could not dispel the chill that seeped into one's bones.

Cao Cao sat alone at his desk, his brows furrowed, with two newly delivered military reports spread out in front of him.

The one on the left was made of old silk, with worn edges and grime, as if it had been soaked in countless drops of sweat and dust.

If it weren't for the fact that the handwriting and seals on them were indeed familiar to Cao Cao, he would have suspected that they were forgeries...

The marks on the seal indicate that it came from Ye City.

The handwriting was done by Chen Qun, the Chief Clerk of the Prime Minister's Office.

The date is quite early...

Of course, the wear and tear on this silk also reveals the difficulty with which this military report was delivered.

The military report was naturally an urgent plea for help jointly signed by Cao Pi and the officials left behind, and between the lines, one could see a hint of panic beneath his forced composure...

The military report stated that the Flying Cavalry had suddenly marched north, their advance swift and decisive, having captured several counties in succession, and was now approaching the outskirts of Ye City. Ye City was now caught in a pincer movement, attacked from both the north and south by the Flying Cavalry. The report detailed the estimated strength of the Flying Cavalry, their advance route, and the dire state of Ye City's defenses, imploring the Prime Minister to quickly send reinforcements, or at least provide strategic guidance…

Cao Cao looked at the letter, his gaze lingering on the "General Cavalry" for a moment, but his expression didn't show much emotion. Instead, a barely perceptible glint flashed across his face...

Indifference and disappointment.

"Ye City... Pi'er is still young."

Cao Cao muttered to himself and gently pushed the letter requesting help aside.

In his view, the letter had been delayed for too long on the road, and the intelligence was outdated, so it had little value left.

More importantly, all his attention and the core of his strategic judgment were firmly focused on the battlefield in front of him in Heluo, and on Fei Qian's main force that was about to approach Sishui Pass.

Does the letter mention the northward march of the Flying Cavalry?
If that's the case, then who is it in Heluo?
Therefore, what was in Ye City must have been a detachment of the Flying Cavalry sent out to contain Ji Province and disrupt the rear.

Fei Qian's goal was definitely himself, and the emperor...

"A small detachment has thrown you into such panic... Ye City has high walls and deep moats, with ample troops, provisions, and weapons, and is further assisted by generals like Chen Ren. Holding out for several months should be no problem. Pi'er, as the garrison commander, can't even withstand this little storm?"

Cao Cao felt somewhat dissatisfied with Cao Pi's ability to handle the situation, thinking that his son was not composed enough and unable to take charge on his own.

He was currently exhausted by the critical situation at Sishui Pass and had no time or intention to send troops back to reinforce it.

The threat from Ji Province was temporarily categorized as "a manageable constraint" in his overall strategy.

Cao Cao's gaze immediately fell on the military report on his right.

The seal on this letter is relatively new, indicating that it was delivered much faster; it came from another son, Cao Zhang.

In the letter, Cao Zhang gave a detailed account of how he "made contact" with Zang Ba, analyzed Zang Ba's conflict with Wei Yan, and stated that this was at least an opportunity that could be used. He also proposed a preliminary plan for a joint attack...

This military report is naturally much more timely; if it can truly lure Wei Yan here…

This was more in line with Cao Cao's urgent need for a breakthrough than the belated and out-of-reaching letter from Ye City requesting reinforcements.

"Although Huang Xu'er has taken a risky approach, it is not without its merits..." Cao Cao pondered. He was not surprised by Zang Ba's fickleness. This man was always a fence-sitter. The key was how to make use of him.

Wei Yan's isolated and reckless advance into Yan and Yu provinces made him a potentially vulnerable point in the entire eastward advance of the Flying Cavalry.

Cao Cao picked up his pen, pondered for a moment, and then began to reply to Cao Zhang.

If you're going to set up a trap, you have to make it realistic and enticing enough.

Cao Cao first affirmed Cao Zhang's initiative in seeking opportunities to defeat the enemy, but instructed him to be cautious when contacting Zang Ba, to verify information from multiple sources, and not to believe everything.

He then outlined the core of the specific strategy...

The Emperor!

Cao Cao suggested that Cao Zhang use Zang Ba to inform Wei Yan that the Emperor, due to the tense situation at the Sishui Pass and the shortage of provisions, intended to temporarily leave the dangerous area and return south to the old capital of Xu County to avoid the advance of the Flying Cavalry and to facilitate the mobilization of grain and supplies from southern Yu Province to support the army.

Of course, because the situation at the front was critical, the number of soldiers and troops escorting the emperor back to Xu County was inevitably small...

The specific time is set for this month...

This is a carefully designed lure.

Xu County was definitely a safer option than Sishui Pass, and the emperor's return south made perfect sense...

Using the emperor as bait, the amount is heavy enough...

The weak security gave Wei Yan the illusion that he could successfully hijack the emperor...

If Wei Yan were tempted to lead his army to plunder the emperor, then his marching route and battle intentions would be exposed!
When the time comes to fight, and where to fight, won't it all be under Cao Cao's control?

(End of this chapter)