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"Everyone!"

Yi Huawei's voice rang out calmly, not loud, but clearly reaching everyone's ears:

"The first phase of the Northern Expedition has largely achieved its objectives. Brother Song is holding Li Jing back in Tangzhou, while Dingfang and Shiji are sweeping across Jiangbei and threatening the Han River. The strategic situation is favorable to us. However, the foundation of the Tang Dynasty remains intact, Dou Jiande is entrenched in Hebei, the Turks are eyeing us covetously, and there are also uncertainties overseas. Today's discussion is to set out the strategy for the second phase, and even the final conquest of the world."

With a flick of his finger across the map, a gentle surge of internal energy swept across the area, causing a vast region on the map, stretching from Xiangyang northward to the Yellow River, to light up faintly.
"The primary enemy remains the Tang dynasty. Luoyang is its eastern capital, and Guanzhong is its base. We must take a two-pronged approach to force them to fight on two fronts, making it difficult for them to attend to both ends."

His gaze first turned to Song Shidao: "Shidao, please summarize the latest troop strength, provisions, and weaponry for everyone."

"Yes, Alliance Leader."

Song Shidao stepped forward and pointed to a huge wooden board hanging next to the map, on which data was listed in neat characters.

"As of this month, the total number of combat troops directly under our league is 468,000. Among them, there are 80,000 naval troops, 280,000 infantry, and 108,000 cavalry. There are approximately 200,000 auxiliary troops and garrison troops in various places."

When the numbers were announced, many of the generals present were invigorated; this was a force capable of crushing any power.

"Grain reserves are mainly located in Xiangyang, Jiangling, Baling, Yuzhang, and Panyu. The current grain reserves, according to the current standards of the entire army, can supply the army of 700,000 for a year. New grain is being stored in batches, and the summer harvest in Jianghuai and Huguang is expected to be in sight, which is expected to provide an additional six months' worth of supplies."

"Regarding ordnance,"

Song Shidao's tone carried a hint of pride: "Our bow and arrow reserves are ample, enough to support the consumption of three large-scale campaigns. Siege equipment—three hundred large catapults, eight hundred medium-sized ones, and two hundred each of siege towers and siege siege engines—have all been dismantled and are ready for transport. Swords, spears, and armor are all being manufactured according to the new 'assembly line' method set by the Alliance Leader, resulting in production volume and quality far exceeding previous levels. Particularly noteworthy is…"

"Two hundred 'Eight-Ox Crossbows' improved under Master Lu's supervision have been mass-produced, with their range and power doubled; thirty 'Fire Oil Tanks' have been successfully trial-produced; new marine propellers have been equipped on half of the main warships, increasing their speed by 50% in windless conditions; in addition, the 'Improved Paper' and 'Standard Weights and Measures' recently delivered by the 'Tiangong Institute' have begun to be distributed to various departments, significantly improving the efficiency of document delivery and logistics scheduling."

This series of reports left generals like Li Mi and Xu Shiji, who came from traditional military backgrounds, feeling both somewhat unfamiliar and excited. They vaguely sensed that the changes brought about by the alliance leader went far beyond political orders and military achievements.

Yi Huawei nodded slightly, casting an approving glance at Lu Miaozi. Lu Miaozi stroked his beard and smiled, quite pleased with himself.

"With this foundation, we can proceed in multiple directions simultaneously."

Yi Huawei's finger landed on the location of the Liaodong Peninsula and the Korean Peninsula:
"Beautiful fairy, Wanjing."

The mother and daughter immediately stepped forward and bowed, saying, "Alliance Leader."

"How are the modifications to the Dongming warships? Are the Yingzhou sailors up for a battle on the high seas?"

Shan Meixian replied solemnly, "Reporting to the Alliance Leader, twelve of the new 'Zhenhai' class warships, modified according to Lu Shi's blueprints, have been completed. Each ship can carry eight hundred soldiers and is equipped with eight heavy crossbows and four whirlwind cannons (improved catapults). The bow is fitted with a wave-breaking steel spike, and its speed, seakeeping, and firepower far exceed those of the old ships. The remaining three hundred or so warships of various sizes have all been inspected and repaired, with thirty thousand sailors, of whom forty percent are naturalized sailors from Yingzhou. Having experienced the suppression of pirates and the transport of troops, they are ready for battle."

Shan Wanjing added in a clear voice, "The 12,000-strong Marine Corps battalion has completed training and is skilled in beach landings and port assaults."

"it is good."

Yi Huawei nodded slightly: "I hereby appoint the two of you to take command of the East China Sea Fleet and the Marine Corps Battalion, and to transfer 20,000 local soldiers from Feng Ang's troops in Lingnan who are skilled in mountain warfare, and 30,000 auxiliary soldiers. Starting today, the ships will depart for Dengzhou!"

Pointing his finger across the map between the Liaodong Peninsula and the Korean Peninsula: "There's no need to get entangled with the scattered remnants of the Tang dynasty in Shandong. Head straight for Silla! Kim Chun-chu (King of Silla) is outwardly compliant but inwardly defiant, secretly colluding with Goguryeo, Baekje, and even the remnants of Japan, repeatedly harassing our trade routes in Yingzhou and plundering the coast. This scab must be swept away with thunder. Once Silla is pacified, the Andong Protectorate will be established, and we will have complete control of the Korean Peninsula. Then our northeastern sea frontier will be secure, and we can also use this route to threaten Goguryeo's rear by land. In the future, we can conquer Liaodong, block the possible eastward escape routes of the Turks and Khitans, and form a pincer movement with the future northward army."

His gaze fell upon Shan Meixian, his tone carrying a sense of entrustment: "The sea route is long and fraught with unpredictable risks. But if this road is opened, the achievement will be remembered for generations. Meixian, you are the commander, and Wanjing is the vanguard. Are you capable of handling this?"

Shan Meixian bowed deeply: "I will certainly live up to the Alliance Leader's trust! I will definitely pave a smooth road for our alliance in the Northeast!"

Dan Wanjing blushed with excitement and exclaimed, "Don't worry, Alliance Leader! Wanjing will be the first to ascend to the capital of Silla!"

This was an unexpected but strategic move, demonstrating remarkable foresight. It not only resolved potential threats in the rear but also laid the groundwork for future expansion in Northeast Asia. Everyone's spirits lifted.

"very good."

"Li Jing has arrived in Zhixian, echoing Qin Qiong and Yuchi Jingde from afar. Ning Daoqi, Liaokong, and other Buddhist monks have also gathered in Luoyang. The Li Tang dynasty has concentrated its best forces along the Nanyang-Luoyang line, intending to fight us to the death. Then so be it, let them have their wish, and crush their last hope here."

Yi Huawei's gaze shifted westward, landing on Luoyang: "Brother Song, based on the existing forces at the Tangzhou front, gradually increase the pressure on Li Jing. There's no need to rush, but you must firmly hold back the main force of the Li Tang army. After Su Dingfang's troops move, depending on the situation, you can switch to a full-scale attack and take Luoyang! I will order the second batch of reserve troops and siege equipment from Baling and Jiangling to go north along the Han River to reinforce them. Luoyang is a fortified city, and Li Shimin will definitely defend it heavily, and Buddhist masters may also gather there. Take it easy and use your strength to overwhelm them. If necessary, I can go to Luoyang myself."

The words "personally going to Luoyang" sent a shiver down the spines of everyone present. If the alliance leader were to personally take action, it almost certainly meant the arrival of the decisive battle.

Then, Yi Huawei's finger traced an arc from the western edge of the Nanyang Basin, pointing straight to Guanzhong: "Su Dingfang!"

"Your subordinate is here!" Su Dingfang immediately stood up.

"Su Dingfang, you will lead your elite cavalry of 20,000, the Mo Dao battalion of 5,000, the mountain infantry of 10,000, and the engineer battalion of 3,000 to form the westward advance army. Your mission is not to attack the Tongguan Pass."

Yi Huawei's finger landed on a thin line south of Tongguan, nestled in the Qinling Mountains: "Secretly advance westward via Wuguan Road! Cross the Qinling Mountains and strike straight into the heart of Guanzhong! The main force of the Li Tang army is tied down in Luoyang by Song Que, leaving Guanzhong vulnerable. I want you to avoid fortified cities along the way, prioritizing mobility and flexibility, disrupting supply lines, harassing prefectures and counties, creating panic, and ideally reaching the gates of Chang'an to shake its foundations! This is a surprise attack, but also a risky move. The guides, maps, mountain equipment, and a list of potential insiders along the way will be delivered to you by 'Shadow' later. Remember, be fast, accurate, and ruthless—strike and retreat immediately, do not linger. If things don't go well, preserve your forces and retreat to Nanyang."

This route and mission sent a chill down everyone's spine. A surprise attack across the Qinling Mountains, culminating in a raid on Guanzhong—if successful, it would be devastating to the Li Tang dynasty. Xu Shiji's eyes gleamed, clearly captivated by this strategic concept. "The third route,"

Yi Huawei's finger moved north of the Yellow River: "Xu Shiji, Cheng Zhijie!"

"Your subordinate is here!" The two men stood up.

"I hereby order you two to lead 50,000 infantry and cavalry northward from Xinye, feigning a strong attack on Nanyang and threatening the flanks and rear of Luoyang. In reality, secretly divide your forces and advance eastward along the northern foothills of the Funiu Mountains, capturing Yangdi (present-day Yuzhou) and Xiangcheng (present-day Xiangcheng), threatening Dou Jiande's southern defenses! Do not venture too deep; focus on seizing key points, annihilating his border garrisons, and creating pressure. If Dou Jiande sends reinforcements, strike accordingly; if he remains inactive, consolidate the occupied territories and establish forward outposts. The purpose of this route is to contain Dou Jiande, preventing him from easily moving south to join forces with the Li Tang dynasty, and possibly even forcing him to shift his attention southward, thus creating conditions for my subsequent resolution of the Hebei issue. Li Mi."

Li Mi was taken aback and quickly stood up: "Alliance Leader."

"You will accompany this army, serve as an advisor on military affairs, and be responsible for liaison with Dou Jiande's side."

Yi Huawei gave him a meaningful look. Li Mi felt a chill run down his spine, realizing that this was an attempt to use his past connections and reputation to intimidate or win over Dou Jiande. He quickly bowed and said, "Understood."

"Wanwan is stationed in Sichuan, guarding against the Tuyuhun and pacifying the southwest; this is a heavy responsibility. Tell her to hold firm and, if necessary, feign weakness to lure the enemy, and then look westward after the Central Plains are pacified."

Yi Huawei looked at Sina: "Also, order her to select some elite troops to go north along the tributaries of the Yangtze River to maintain pressure on the Hanzhong region, to contain the Li Tang forces in Hanzhong, and prevent them from going east to reinforce Guanzhong or Luoyang."

Finally, Yi Huawei's gaze returned to Lu Miaozi and Shang Xiuxun: "Master Lu, Xiuxun, logistics and weaponry are the lifeblood of this multi-front war. The 'Tiangong Academy' must do its utmost to ensure the needs of each front, especially prioritizing supplies to Song Que and Su Dingfang's troops. The Flying Horse Ranch must accelerate the breeding and training of warhorses, especially the Yunnan and Sichuan horses suitable for mountain warfare, and prioritize supplying Su Dingfang's troops. All supply lines must be kept open, and transit warehouses must be established, jointly protected by the Imperial Guard and local garrison troops."

"Rest assured, Alliance Leader, I will not fail in my mission," Lu Miaozi said solemnly.

"Xiuxun understands." Shang Xiuxun solemnly agreed.

Yi Huawei surveyed the entire room and slowly rose to his feet. As he stood, an aura as vast as the starry sky naturally spread out, not deliberately oppressive, yet causing everyone to involuntarily hold their breath.

"Gentlemen, the Heavenly Alliance has been gathering strength for five years, from south to north, and today we arrive at the eve of the decisive battle. The Tang Dynasty, Dou Jiande, the Turks, and even the villains overseas are all obstacles to our hegemony. This battle is not for the selfish interests of any one family, but to end the decades of chaos, restore order to China, and lay the foundation for lasting peace! Advancing on all fronts may be fraught with difficulties, but with the unity of our alliance, the bravery of our soldiers, and the assurance of our logistics, coupled with the overwhelming momentum in our favor, what is there to fear in our hegemony not being achieved?"

"From this day forward, the Heavenly Alliance shall enter a state of war. All officials and generals shall perform their duties, and those who perform meritorious service shall be rewarded, and those who commit wrongdoing shall be punished. Those who delay military operations shall be executed! Those who undermine morale shall be executed! Those who collude with the enemy and betray the alliance shall be implicated!"

Holding up a glass of water, Yi Huawei's eyes flashed like lightning:
"Let this water serve as wine, a toast to all of you. May you each fulfill your duties and forge ahead bravely. When the world is at peace, let us drink together in celebration!"

"I am willing to follow the Alliance Leader to sweep away all obstacles and usher in an era of lasting peace!"

Everyone in the hall, regardless of their original status, was filled with excitement at this moment. They all stood up, raised their water glasses, and responded loudly, their voices echoing throughout the council hall.

………………

East China Sea, Blackwater Ocean (now the eastern part of the Yellow Sea), the horizon is faintly bright.

The leaden-gray clouds hung low, seemingly merging with the dark blue sea. The sea breeze was biting, carrying a salty, fishy smell, and whipped up waves several feet high, crashing heavily against the ship's side with a dull, thunderous roar.

In this treacherous sea that inspires fear in ordinary sailors, a large fleet is cutting through the waves, heading northeast.

The core of the fleet consists of twelve behemoths – the new “Zhenhai” class main warships.

They were longer than traditional multi-story ships, with gleaming steel spikes at the bow, and firing ports on both sides. On the three decks, eight heavy crossbows and four modified "whirlwind cannons" (small catapults) were covered with tarpaulins, like sleeping behemoths.

On the towering mainmast and secondary mast, the jet-black "Heavenly Way" battle flag and the "New Moon Over Waves" flag of the Eastern Sea Sect fluttered in the gale, making a sharp sound like tearing fabric. Near the waterline, two rows of huge propellers turned at a steady speed to the rhythmic chants of the porters in the lower deck, providing the warship with strong power and stability even against the wind.

This was the main force of the East China Sea Fleet under the command of Shan Meixian and her daughter. The remaining three hundred or so warships, including large warships, fighting ships, small boats, and transport ships, surrounded the twelve "Zhenhai" ships like stars around the moon, forming a massive and well-organized naval battle formation. The waves were like mountains, and the ship formation was like a forest, resembling a mobile metal fortress, with an overwhelming momentum that could crush all obstacles.

Inside the top command cabin of the flagship "Dinghai," the atmosphere was completely different from the raging winds and waves outside the window—it was quiet and orderly.

Shan Meixian stood before the enormous nautical chart table, dressed in a dark blue outfit with silver trim, covered by a light fish-scale soft armor. Her long hair was simply tied up with a jade hairpin, revealing her smooth forehead and slender neck. In her hand, she held a slender command ruler inlaid with pearls, her gaze calmly sweeping across the nautical chart, measuring distances and calculating course with her fingers.

Beside her stood four women of different temperaments, who were the four guardian fairies of the Dongming Sect in the past, and now Shan Meixian's most capable deputy generals.

Ruan Xingzhu, known as the "Azure Wave Fairy," is about thirty years old. She has a beautiful appearance, is skilled in using a pair of Emei daggers that can split water, and is proficient in swimming. She is responsible for the fleet's underwater surveillance and attack.

Shen Luoyan, known as the "Fairy of the Tide Sound" (not the one from Wagang), has a melodious voice and cultivates a unique sonic skill. She can transmit clear instructions in the wind and also disturb the mind of the enemy. She is responsible for flag signals, horns, and command coordination.

Lu Wushuang, known as the "Fairy of Clouds and Sails," is tall and nimble. She is an expert in sailing and navigating, with a keen sense of ocean currents and wind direction changes, and is responsible for navigation scheduling.

Cheng Yaojia, known as "Fairy Xuanji," is meticulous and proficient in arithmetic and nautical astrology. She serves as the fleet's navigator and quartermaster.

All four women were top-tier martial arts experts, and they stood solemnly to one side, awaiting orders. (End of Chapter)