The Three Kingdoms: Zhaolie, the strategist, and the rise of the Han Dynasty

Chapter 388 The heroes conquered the Yangtze River, and a million soldiers crossed the great river!

In late winter, the snow on the walls of Chang'an had not yet melted.

A procession of carriages with blue canopies rolled over the thin ice on Zhuque Street and slowly came to a stop in front of the Yongliang Governor's Mansion.

Zhuge Liang lifted the curtain and stepped out, his white fox fur cloak fluttering in the north wind.

He looked up at the majestic gate tower, his breath instantly dissipating into the frigid air.

Guanzhong has suffered from war for a long time, and even the stone lions in front of the governor's mansion have lost a leg, revealing a grayish-white base color in the mottled area.

Has Governor Li arrived yet?

Zhuge Liang's question was concise and to the point.

The attendant bowed and replied:
"They are already waiting in the second hall."

Upon arriving in Chang'an, Zhuge Liang's first act was to summon Li Yan, the governor of Liangzhou.

This person was both his former subordinate in Jingzhou and the local leader after Ma Chao left.

When the top leader summons the second-in-command, it is naturally sending a political signal.

When Li Yan saw Zhuge Liang enter the hall, he hurriedly stood up and bowed.

Eight years had passed since they last met, and Zhuge Liang was even more gaunt than before, but his eyes still shone brightly like cold stars.

"This humble servant pays respects to the Commander-in-Chief."

Li Yan knelt on the ground, his voice trembling with the emotion of reuniting with an old friend.

Zhuge Liang personally helped him up:
"...The affirmative side need not be so polite."

"Guanzhong is bitterly cold. You have been stationed here for many years. You must be tired."

The two men took their seats as host and guest, and servants served them hot wine.

Zhuge Liang did not drink, but instead warmed his hands over the cup.
"I have been ordered to oversee Yongliang this time, and my primary task is to establish military farms."

"Our country has been at war for years, and our food supplies are running low."

"Even if Guanzhong is heavily fortified with troops, it will all be in vain if there is no way to supply it itself."

Li Yan's expression hardened:
"...The Governor is wise."

"Since the Jian'an period, the population of Guanzhong has been halved, and much of the fertile land has been left uncultivated."

"Moreover, during the Central Plains War, Cao Cao forcibly relocated many people from this area."

"Although we tried military settlements last year, the results were just a drop in the ocean."

"I intend to establish large-scale military settlements, so that soldiers can be soldiers in wartime and farmers in peacetime."

Zhuge Liang took out a scroll of silk from his sleeve and analyzed it methodically:

"The banks of the Wei River are fertile fields stretching for thousands of miles. If a canal is dug to draw water, the former glory of the Zheng Guo Canal can be restored."

"Within three years, Yongliang will surely be self-sufficient in grain and provisions."

Li Yan stepped forward to examine the map, and was amazed to see the crisscrossing waterways and the well-organized division of the military settlements.

"The Governor-General's plans are profound and far-sighted; how could I, your humble servant, not serve him with utmost loyalty!"

Zhuge Liang nodded slightly:
"The order to establish military farms will be issued tomorrow. Except for those who are stationed or training, all soldiers must participate in agricultural work."

“Recruit more refugees, allocate land according to population, and exempt them from taxes for three years.”

Zhuge Liang was a typical action-oriented person; as soon as he took office, he directly stated his political views.

Having gained eight years of experience governing Jiaozhou, Zhuge Liang was now quite adept at governing Guanzhong.

Just as they were talking, a commotion was heard outside the hall.

A servant reported that Pang De and Ma Dai, former subordinates of Ma Chao, requested an audience.

Zhuge Liang's eyebrows twitched slightly, and he said, "Please."

Two military officers entered, looking travel-worn, their armor still covered in frost.

Pound was the first to bow down:
"We, your humble servants, have come to apologize upon hearing of the Commander's arrival!"

Zhuge Liang remained silent for a moment before saying:

"What crime has the general committed?"

Ma Dai kowtowed and said:
“Last year, when the army was short of food, we took civilian food without authorization.”

"Although the debt has been repaid, it is still a violation of military discipline."

Pang De and Ma Dai were both former subordinates of Ma Chao, but only Ma Chao himself was recalled to the capital.

His former subordinates remained in Guanzhong to serve.

Although Ma Chao was brave in battle, he was rather mediocre in maintaining military discipline.

Moreover, his subordinates were mostly a mix of Han and Qiang people, with varying levels of quality.

Therefore, Ma Chao was quite lenient with his subordinates when he was alive.

The saying goes, "A new broom sweeps clean."

Hearing that the imperial court had sent a new official, Pang De and Ma Dai dared not be negligent.

They took the initiative to come and pay their respects.

It was both an apology and a test.

Zhuge Liang ordered the two men to rise, pondered for a long while, and then slowly said:
“When Ma Mengqi was in power, military discipline was lax, which was not your fault.”

“From this day forward, the military and political affairs of Yongliang will be completely renewed.”

He then summoned the chief clerk to bring the merit and demerit book and added the names of the soldiers who had not yet been rewarded.

Those who have made mistakes will also be punished accordingly.

When it came to Pang De and Ma Dai, Zhuge Liang said again:

"The two generals have rendered meritorious service in guarding the western frontier, and each shall be rewarded with one hundred catties of gold."

"However, if someone illegally seizes grain from the people, they should be fined half a year's salary. Is that acceptable?"

Pound and Ma Dai looked at each other in astonishment, then bowed in submission:
"The Commander-in-Chief's rewards and punishments are fair and just; this humble general is completely convinced!"

Within ten days, Zhuge Liang issued a new policy—

Officials were evaluated primarily on their performance in land reclamation and maintaining public order.
The military implemented a system of rotating shifts for military service;

They also set up complaint boxes at the four gates, allowing people to submit their complaints.

In just two months, Yongliang indeed took on a completely new look.

Perhaps an old official whispered among himself:

"Zhuge Liang was discerning and insightful, truly a man who could not tolerate corruption among officials and who inspired self-discipline among his people."

The following spring, the banks of the Wei River were filled with soldiers who had settled there to cultivate the land.

Zhuge Liang personally went to the fields to teach soldiers and civilians how to make dragon-bone waterwheels, and also introduced rice varieties discovered in Jiaozhou.

That year, the Guanzhong Plain enjoyed favorable weather and abundant harvests, promising a bountiful summer wheat harvest.

When the news reached Luoyang, the entire court was overjoyed.

However, the news also reached Chengdu, and when Sima Yi, the prime minister of Wei, heard it, he was visibly worried.

That night, Sima Yi summoned his trusted confidants Deng Ai and Zhang Yi for a secret meeting.

"Zhuge Liang was exceptionally talented and was highly valued by the State of Qi."

Sima Yi threw the secret report onto the table and said with great concern:

"If they can establish a firm foothold in Guanzhong, then there will be no worry about food supplies in Longyou."

"At that time, it will be difficult for our Great Wei to launch a northern expedition."

After a slight pause, Sima Yi continued:
"Now that Zhuge Liang's position is not yet secure, if we do not attack him, it will be too late to regret it once he has become deeply entrenched."

“I have received a secret decree from the King, granting me permission to act as I see fit.”

He immediately issued the order: "Gather 30,000 troops, march out of Sanguan Pass, and head straight for Chencang!"

The Wei army marched day and night, and arrived at Sanguan Pass in just ten days.

Seeing the overwhelming strength of the Wei army, Wang Shuang, the Han general guarding the pass, quickly closed the gate and sent a messenger on horseback to Chang'an.

When Zhuge Liang received the report, he was overseeing the manufacture of repeating crossbows.

After reading the military report, he remained calm and simply smiled at those around him:
"Sima Zhongda has arrived at just the right time."

Immediately, the order was given:

"Order Ma Dai to lead 5,000 elite troops to reinforce Chencang. Wang Shuang should hold the pass and defend it to the death. Do not engage in battle."

Then Li Yan was summoned:
"The ripe grains should be harvested as soon as possible and transported into the city."

"The Weinan military farmland area should be cleared of its fields to prevent the supply of food to the enemy."

Li Yan advised:

"General, the Weinan agricultural settlement is the culmination of our army's hard work and has just begun to show promise. How can we allow it to be destroyed?"

Zhuge Liang said solemnly:

"If people survive and land is lost, both people and land will survive."

"If you lose the land but the people, you lose both the land and the people."

"Sima Yi's purpose in coming here is to destroy our military farms."

"If we cling to our fields, we will be falling into their trap."

"Let us avoid their attack for now, and wait until their supplies run out, then they will surely retreat on their own."

As expected, when Sima Yi's army approached Chencang, they found the Han army heavily fortified.

The fields surrounding the city were empty, and there was nowhere to eat.

The Wei army has come from afar, but their supplies are running low.

After more than ten days of unsuccessful siege, morale gradually declined.

On this day, Sima Yi climbed to a high place to view the city and saw that the Han army's banners were neatly arranged on the walls of Chencang.

Although the fields outside the city were empty, the canals and weirs crisscrossing the banks of the Wei River in the distance clearly showed that the military farms had taken shape. I couldn't help but sigh:
"Zhuge Liang was truly a genius of the world!"

"In less than half a year, Guanzhong was revitalized."

"Given time, it will surely become a major threat to my heart."

Deng Ai, standing nearby, offered his advice:

"...Prime Minister, do not worry."

“Having observed the layout of their waterways, I already have a plan to break it.”

Sima Yi raised an eyebrow and asked:
"What insightful opinion does Shi Zai have?"

Deng Ai pointed and said:
"The Qi army's land reclamation and farming all relied on the Wei River."

"If a dam is built upstream to cut off the water supply, their military farms will collapse without a fight."

“Once the canals and dams dry up, I will breach the dams and release the water, which will flood the Qi army again.”

Sima Yi nodded and said happily:

"...This plan is brilliant."

"However, it requires long-term management and cannot be accomplished overnight."

"Our army is running out of food, so we should retreat for now and plan again another day."

This military expedition was originally a test by Sima Yi.

He wanted to take advantage of the fact that Zhuge Liang had just arrived in Guanzhong and had not yet established himself or gained widespread respect, to see if he could catch him off guard.

But Zhuge Liang was far more stable than he had imagined.

Even the fields in Weinan were destroyed without warning, and the shrewdness of the operation far exceeded Sima Yi's expectations.

Sima Yi did not intend to wage a prolonged war in this battle.

Since the attempt to "steal the chicken" failed, they simply retreated and decided to try again next year.

Just as the Wei army was preparing to retreat,
Suddenly, the gates of Chencang City opened, and a group of Han soldiers escorted Zhuge Liang, who was dressed in plain clothes and a turban, out of the city.

Sima Yi was greatly alarmed and immediately ordered the entire army to be on high alert.

But then Zhuge Liang rode alone to the front of the two armies and said loudly:

"Zhongda has come from afar, why is he leaving in such a hurry?"

"Why don't we go into the city for a chat? I've prepared some wine."

Sima Yi also rode out alone, cracking his whip and laughing:
"...I appreciate Kongming's kind intentions."

"However, I am truly impressed by your strategy of establishing military farms."

"I will definitely come back to ask for your advice another day."

Zhuge Liang smiled slightly:
"Guanzhong is a vast and sparsely populated area. Zhuge Liang could only follow the strategy of Emperors Wen and Jing, integrating soldiers with farmers."

"This year, the Weinan military farms will yield 500,000 hu of grain, enough to supply the needs of 30,000 troops for a year."

"If we can expand to Longxi next year, then our 100,000 troops can be stationed permanently in Guanzhong."

Sima Yi's expression changed upon hearing this, realizing that Zhuge Liang was deliberately revealing the truth.

They thought it was just a bluff to scare them.

If what he said is true, then the Han army will no longer have to worry about food supplies in Guanzhong.

That would become Sima Yi's nightmare for his Northern Expeditions.

Zhuge Liang suddenly became serious and said:

"...However, weapons are instruments of misfortune, and sages are cautious about them."

“Liang’s purpose in establishing military settlements in Guanzhong was not for the purpose of attacking the enemy, but to ensure that the people could live in peace and that the soldiers could be well-fed and clothed.”

"If the State of Wei were willing to guard its borders and spare its people from suffering, wouldn't that be wonderful?"

Sima Yi remained silent for a long time before finally saying:

"I already know of Kongming's benevolent heart."

"However, each serves their own master, and their actions are not entirely within their own control."

After saying this, he cupped his hands in farewell, saying, "Let's meet again on the battlefield, and I'll learn from your superior skills then."

Sima Yi was also a seasoned politician, and he saw through Zhuge Liang's thoughts at a glance.

Zhuge Liang, in the name of righteousness, accused Sima Yi of recklessly waging war and causing immense suffering to the people.

The real reason was that Zhuge Liang was new to the area and had not yet established a firm foothold in Guanzhong.

Therefore, not only was Sima Yi unprepared for a protracted war, but Zhuge Liang also did not intend to engage in a full-scale war with Sima Yi at this time.

This was merely a test for both of them.

It was simply a way for politicians to gracefully exit the stage through this dialogue.

That night, the Wei army broke camp and retreated.

Zhuge Liang climbed the city wall and looked into the distance. He saw the Wei army's torches, like a long dragon, gradually disappearing into the distance. He then sighed to his attendants:
"Sima Yi knew when to advance and when to retreat; he was truly a brilliant man."

"However, he will surely return, so you must not be complacent."

Subsequently, Zhuge Liang led Li Yan to inspect the newly reclaimed farmland.

The wheat fields rippled and stretched as far as the eye could see.

Li Yan said happily:

"If there are no major disasters this year, a bumper harvest is a foregone conclusion."

"The governor's strategy is so great that even if Xiao He were to be reborn, he could not surpass it."

Zhuge Liang gazed at the drifting clouds in the west and murmured:
"Although the food supplies are sufficient, the hearts of the people are not yet won over."

“Yongliang is a vast and sparsely populated area, and it will take ten years to rebuild its strength.”

"Moreover, Sima Yi will surely bring his entire country next year. We are using the Guanzhong region to resist him, so we cannot underestimate him."

Li Yan was taken aback and asked:

Even if our military might falters, won't we still have the imperial court's support?

Zhuge Liang glanced at him and smiled:

"How can the imperial court maintain a large military presence on the border year after year?"

"During the Yonghe era, the imperial court spent eight billion coins to quell the Qiang rebellion."

"Such a huge expense is something no country can afford."

"Moreover, the court is currently conquering the Wu Kingdom. After Wu is destroyed, a large number of troops will be left there to stabilize the rule."

After listening to Zhuge Liang's explanation, Li Yan felt immense pressure.

All I can do is sigh helplessly:
"I hope we can destroy Wu soon, so that the court will pay more attention to our war in the west."

Undoubtedly, the war in Jiangnan diverted most of the imperial court's attention.

The imperial court has been massively shifting resources and manpower towards the Jiangnan region.

The Yongliang region was already barren, and apart from military affairs, there was really nothing that the court should pay attention to.

However, the gradually developing Jiangnan region made many powerful figures in the court realize that it was a great opportunity to make a fortune.

"Almost there, we'll be there soon."

Zhuge Liang gently waved his feather fan and smiled slightly.

……

Spring of the ninth year of Zhangwu.

Banners and flags covered the sun on the north bank of the Yangtze River, and camps stretched for hundreds of miles.

General Chen Deng, who was leading the southern expedition of the Han Dynasty, stood alone on a high platform, gazing at the river in the distance.

The river wind howled, stirring his dark battle robe, but it couldn't dispel the solemnity between his brows.

"...General, all troops have assembled."

The deputy general presented the troop register.

"Zhang He of the Hebei Army, Gao Shun of the Henan Army, Zang Ba of the Qingxu Army, Huang Zhong of the Jingzhou Army, and the main force of the Huainan Army, totaling 200,000 men."

good!
Chen Deng nodded slightly, his gaze still fixed on the surging river.

"Are there any cattle and sheep left from the imperial court's reward?"

"There are still about a thousand heads remaining."

"Slaughter them all so that the soldiers may have a good meal."

Chen Deng paused.

"Distribute the wine as well, one bowl for each person."

The lieutenant was taken aback, and hesitantly advised:

"General, tomorrow is a great battle, drinking might cause us to make mistakes."

"The cold winter has just passed, but the river water is still cold."

Chen Deng turned around, his gaze sharp as lightning, "Let the soldiers warm themselves up."

That night,

Torches on the north bank shone like stars, and the aroma of roasted meat filled the entire army.

The soldiers sat around the campfire, eating large chunks of meat, their bowls of wine shimmering in the firelight.

When the wine was half-drunk, Chen Deng went up on the stage and beat the drum.

The drums thundered, and the crowd stood in solemn silence.

"Soldiers!"

Chen Deng's voice boomed, "Last winter, when food supplies were scarce, you all suffered from hunger and cold, as I know."

"The spring floods are approaching, a golden opportunity."

"It is time to cross the river, punish the rebels, and reclaim our lost land!"

After a moment of silence, the audience erupted in a deafening roar:

"Slay the traitor Wu! Reclaim our lost territories!!"

Chen Deng raised his hand to suppress the commotion and continued:
"A true man's ambition in this world is nothing more than to be appointed a general and a marquis, and to bring honor to his wife and children."

"Now that fame and fortune are within reach, it remains to be seen whether you dare to seize them?"

He paused, then his voice suddenly rose, "You may die on the battlefield, do you dare?"

"Dare! Dare! Dare!"

Two hundred thousand people roared in unison, their voices shaking the heavens.

Chen Deng's gaze swept over the excited faces, and he slowly said:

"In that case, eat your fill and pack your bags."

"When the flood season arrives tomorrow, the entire army will cross the river!!"

While the Han army prepared for war, the Wu camp in Jiangnan was in a state of panic.

Wu Jun's commander-in-chief, Sun Shao, stared at the military report, his fingers trembling slightly.

The curtain was lifted, and Zhu Ran strode inside:

"Governor, the peasant uprisings in various places are intensifying. If we send troops to quell the rebellions again, it may lead to great chaos!"

Sun Shao threw down the military report and sighed:
"The Han army has 200,000 troops stationed on the north bank, and they will cross the river tomorrow."

"If we do not quell the rebellion now, we will lose the hearts of the people; if we do not divide our forces, we will find it difficult to defend against the enemy. What should we do?"

Zhu Ran stepped forward and whispered:
"Last year, in order to raise military provisions, the government forcibly requisitioned grain from the people, which has already alienated the people."

"If we abandon the suppression of the rebellion now, Jiangnan may no longer be ours."

Sun Shao suddenly stood up:

"The enemy from Jiangbei will arrive tomorrow."

"If the river defenses fall, what use is the south of the Yangtze River?"

He then ordered, "Immediately recall all troops used to quell the rebellion and strengthen the defenses along the river."

"The beacon towers along the river have been doubled, and all warships have been assembled at Xiakou."

Zhu Ran hesitated for a moment, then finally accepted the order and left.

That night, both armies on both banks of the Yangtze River remained awake all night.

The Han army on the north bank prepared their boats and checked their bows and crossbows.

Wu's troops on the south bank reinforced their fortifications and set up defensive lines.

As dawn approached, the spring floods arrived as scheduled.

The river swelled, its waves surging like a stampede of ten thousand horses.

Chen Deng went to the riverbank and, seeing the swift current, couldn't help but laugh out loud:

"God help me too!"

"Although the floodwaters are dangerous, we can go straight downstream and quickly reach the south bank!"

The generals on both sides looked worried.

The military advisor advised, "General, the current is too swift; the boats may be difficult to control."

Chen Deng pointed his whip at the river and shouted sternly:

“When Emperor Guangwu crossed the Hutuo River in the past, the water was as hard as stone.”

"Today I am crossing the Yangtze River, what fear do I have of the waves? Immediately issue the order for the five armies to advance simultaneously!"

"Do not be negligent, or you will be executed!"

In an instant, the sound of drums and horns shook the north bank.

Zhang He led the Hebei army on the left wing, while Gao Shun led the Henan army on the right wing.

Zang Baqing and Xu Jun made a flanking maneuver upstream, while Huang Zhong's Jingzhou army formed the rear flank.

Chen Deng led the Huainan army and marched straight to Ruxukou.

A thousand sails race, like arrows released from a bow.

Sun Shao had been waiting in full battle array on the south bank. Upon seeing the approaching Han army, he immediately ordered the Wu navy to launch an attack.

The two armies met in the middle of the river, and arrows flew like locusts.

Standing atop the warship, Chen Deng observed the agility of the Wu army's ships and issued an order:

"Link the boats together in formation to control speed with stability!"

The Han army linked large ships together to form a floating fortress.

Although Wu Jun was brave, he was difficult to defeat.

Upon seeing this, Sun Shao personally led his elite troops in a charge.

Wu soldiers selected the best swimmers and leaped onto the Han ships to fight.

For a time,

Swords flashed and blood stained the waves on the river.

Chen Deng watched the battle from his warship. Seeing that the elite troops of both sides were locked in fierce combat with comparable casualties, he said to his men:
"...Wu Jun indeed has brave and heroic men."

"How can they, with their starving army, resist our well-fed troops, hold out for long?"

As Chen Yuanlong had predicted,
After about an hour of fighting, the Wu army's morale began to wane.

The Han army, having eaten plenty of beef and mutton the previous winter, were full of energy and fought with increasing ferocity.

Many of Wu's soldiers, exhausted, fell into the water and struggled to their deaths in the icy river.

Seeing that his vanguard had all perished, Sun Shao hastily ordered a retreat:

"Retreat to the south bank immediately and hold the line!"

Because they were quickly defeated in the second round of combat, many people fell into the water and drowned or froze to death.

Taking advantage of their victory, the Han army continued to advance the battle line.

Wu's army was demoralized and its soldiers were losing ground, retreating continuously.

Seeing that the Han army was unstoppable, Sun Shao had no choice but to order the Wu army to retreat to the south bank.

They wanted to set up a formation on the shore to prevent the Han army from landing.

however,
During the retreat of Wu's army, many conscripted soldiers jumped overboard and fled.

Sun Shao was furious and ordered his personal guards to kill the deserters, which barely stabilized the situation.

Upon reaching the south bank, Wu's army hastily formed ranks.

However, the morale of the army was already in turmoil, and the soldiers whispered among themselves, all showing signs of fear.

Clearly, this was due to the mutiny during the battle.

Wu Jun missed another opportunity to organize a defense against the Han army's landing.

One step wrong, step by step wrong.

On the battlefield, not even the slightest mistake is permissible.

Opportunities are often reserved for those who are prepared.

Seeing that Wu's army was in disarray, Chen Deng immediately gave the following order:
"Prepare the catapults, strike the shore!"

The catapults on the Han army's large ships fired simultaneously, and huge rocks rained down on the south bank.

Wu Jun had nowhere to hide and suffered heavy casualties.

"Log in!"

Chen Deng brandished his sword and gave the order.

Taking advantage of the situation, the Han army landed and surged onto the south bank like a tide.

The Wu army was already demoralized, and seeing the Han army's unstoppable momentum, they all fled in disarray.

Sun Shao killed several men, but still could not stop the defeat, and had no choice but to retreat with the defeated army.

Han general Zhang He rushed to Chen Deng's side:

"General, the Wu army has been routed. Please allow me to lead my iron cavalry in pursuit and capture Sun Shao!"

All the generals volunteered for battle, their voices thunderous.

Chen Deng shook his head:
"No!"

"Our troops have landed, but their foothold is not yet secure."

"With an army of 200,000 crossing the river, they could not support each other from the front and rear."

"If one is greedy for merit and acts rashly, one may be taken advantage of."

He then issued an order to all departments:
"Arrange the troops, count the number of men, and secure the beachhead."

"Anyone who disobeys orders and enters without permission will be executed!"

By dusk, the Han army had completely controlled the south bank of Ruxukou.

Boats ply the river, continuously transporting follow-up troops ashore.

Chen Deng climbed to a high place and looked into the distance. Seeing the Jiangnan region shrouded in twilight, he sighed to those around him:

"Although we have won today, the hearts of the people in Jiangnan have not yet been won over."

"Although Sun Shao was defeated, the mountains and rivers of Wu still remain dangerous."

"Gentlemen, you must not underestimate the enemy."

That night,

The Han army camped on the riverbank, their lights stretching for dozens of miles.

Wu's army retreated thirty miles before finally gathering its remaining troops.

Sun Shao counted his men and found that more than 30% of them had been lost, and all their food and equipment had been lost.

The subordinate suggested:

"It would be better to retreat to Jianye and defend the city."

Sun Shao sighed deeply:

"The river defenses have fallen, and Jianye is difficult to defend." "The only course of action now is to hold the strategic positions and wait for the Qi army to run out of supplies."

"There may be a chance to turn defeat into victory."

Suddenly a scout came to report:
The Han army did not pursue them, but instead set up camp on the riverbank.

Sun Shao was taken aback upon hearing this, and sighed again:

"Chen Deng did not pursue him; he was truly a great general."

"I am far inferior to him."

At this time, Chen Deng was inspecting the camp. Seeing that the soldiers were exhausted, he ordered them to have extra food.

He then personally visited the wounded soldiers' camp to comfort them, and did not rest until midnight.

The soldier asked:

"General, shall we advance tomorrow?"

Chen Deng shook his head:

"Victory is already a foregone conclusion, so why rush things?"

"It's not too late to advance after Zang Ba seizes the upstream area and Huang Zhong controls Wuhu."

"The art of war should be like the spring flood, gathering strength before unleashing it."

The sound of the Yangtze River's night tide seemed to echo the strategies of this general who conquered the south.

On both the north and south banks, both armies are regrouping and preparing for an even more brutal battle.

……

Let me talk about two things.

Inside Jianye City, in the deep courtyard of the Lü residence.

The drizzle tapped on the green tiles, and water droplets formed a string of beads under the eaves.

Inside the hall, however, it was warm and inviting, with the silver charcoal burning brightly in the brazier, making the walls gleam.

Lü Yi raised his glass and laughed:

"The soldiers on the front lines haven't even smelled meat this winter, but Brother Jiang is able to enjoy the fresh delicacies of Jiangnan here."

"He is truly blessed with great fortune."

Jiang Gan smiled and picked up a piece of shad with his chopsticks:
"...It's all thanks to Brother Lü's kindness."

"This fish is truly the freshest delicacy from the headwaters of the Yangtze River."

After chewing it carefully, he suddenly sighed, "What a pity, what a pity."

Lü Yi raised an eyebrow and quickly asked:

"Brother Jiang, what makes you say that?"

"Such delicious food, if war spreads in the future, I'm afraid we'll never be able to taste it again."

Jiang Gan said casually, but his gaze swept towards Lü Yi.

Lu Yi's wine glass trembled slightly. After a long while, he lowered his voice and asked:
"I've heard that the Han army has already assembled on the north bank. Are they really preparing to cross the river?"

Jiang Gan stroked his beard and smiled:

"The imperial army will come to relieve the people and punish the guilty."

"If the ruler of Wu is wise enough to open the city gates and surrender, then the suffering of the people can be avoided."

He suddenly leaned forward, "Brother Lü has a long-standing reputation for virtue in the court."

"If we can awaken the ruler of Wu to the truth, wouldn't that be a great achievement?"

Lü Yi chuckled twice and sighed:

"Although I have the trust of the King of Wu, matters of state and military affairs are beyond my control."

"Brother Lü is too modest."

Jiang Gan's smile deepened. "Dismiss Lu Xun, expel Gu Yong, seize military funds, and incite popular uprisings—"

"These are things that ordinary people cannot do."

Lü Yi's expression changed drastically, and the bamboo chopsticks in his hand fell to the ground.

"Brother Jiang, your information comes quickly. How did you know that this whole affair was my doing?"

"Does the imperial court not know the merits of a loyal minister?"

Jiang Gan clapped his hands, and a servant presented him with a brocade box.

"This is a handwritten letter from the Prime Minister, written after Brother Xu Lü crossed the river."

"He was enfeoffed as the Marquis of Kuaiji, with a fief of three thousand households."

When Lü Yi opened the brocade box, he saw that the silk book was stamped with the seal of the Prime Minister of the Han Dynasty, and his hand trembled slightly.

To my surprise, the legendary Prime Minister Li actually replied to me in person!

I received a handwritten letter from him!

Lü Yi was deeply moved, feeling that all her efforts over the past few days had not been in vain.

"Brother Lü, rest assured."

Jiang Gan continued speaking, calmly saying:

"If nothing unexpected happens, Chen Zhengnan's 200,000-strong army should have already broken through Ruxukou, and Sun Shao has retreated a hundred miles."

"The news is probably already on its way."

"However, Chen Zhengnan did not want this matter to reach the ears of the King of Wu so soon."

Lü Yi nodded and hurriedly asked:

"How can I serve you, Brother Jiang?"

Jiang Gan clapped his hands and laughed:

"...Brother Lü is indeed wise."

"The people in Jianye City are in a state of panic right now, and they need a capable minister like Brother Lü to stabilize their hearts."

He paused for a moment, then added, "I have indeed come here with an important matter to entrust to you."

After saying this, he gestured, and four women emerged from behind the screen.

Each one of them had beautiful hair and a lovely face, with graceful figures and movements as delicate as willows swaying in the breeze.

Lü Yi stared in disbelief, and asked blankly:

"This...this is..."

"This is a singing girl who has been carefully trained and nurtured in Chen Zhengnan's mansion for many years."

Jiang Gan laughed and said, "In the past, Goujian presented Xi Shi to King Fuchai of Wu, and eventually he became the hegemon."

"Now Chen Zhengnan wishes to follow the ancient precedent and present these four women to the King of Wu 'again'."

Lü Yi suddenly realized:

“Wonderful! The King of Wu is currently troubled by the war. It would be wonderful if a beautiful woman could relieve his worries.”

"That's what it means."

Jiang Gan clapped his hands and smiled slightly:
"As for how to present it, I will have to trouble you, Brother Lü."

Lu Yi stared intently at the women, muttering to himself:

"Such a beauty could only have been trained by Chen Zhengnan."

Jiang Gan suddenly said seriously:

"Brother Lü, you must remember that this matter concerns a major plan, and you must not let the news leak out."

Lü Yi nodded repeatedly:

"I understand. I will go to the palace to meet the King of Wu tomorrow."

But then he hesitated and said, "But Brother Jiang is currently in Jianye. If we are discovered, it will probably not be a good thing for either of us."

Jiang Gan laughed heartily:

"Brother Lü, rest assured, I have my own eyes and ears in the city."

"To be honest, Brother Lü, I had already planted spies in Jianye long before the court decided to conquer Wu."

"This is a top military secret, and no one knows about it except the Prime Minister and Chen Zhengnan."

"I was only informed of this because I had a mission to complete."

"Otherwise, how could someone like me be allowed to hear such military secrets?"

Lü Yi couldn't help but exclaim in amazement:
"...Brother Jiang's profound wisdom and foresight are truly admirable."

When the rain stopped and the clouds dispersed that night, a cold moon shone on the city walls of Jianye.

Jiang Gan quietly left the Lü residence and turned into a small alley.

A horse-drawn carriage was already waiting in the alley.

A person inside the car asked in a low voice:
"Sir, how did things go?"

Jiang Gan said calmly:
"...The fish has taken the bait."

"Notify all hidden agents to prepare to receive the main force as it enters the city."

The carriage moved silently across the wet stone road and disappeared into the night of Jiangnan.

Meanwhile, inside the Lü residence...

Lu Yi was trying on the marquis's crown and robes in front of the mirror, with four beautiful concubines serving him.

The person in the mirror had a rosy complexion, as if they could already see wealth and prosperity in sight.

The night was as dark as ink, but the palace of the King of Wu was brightly lit.

Sun Quan was bent over his desk reviewing memorials, his brows furrowed deeply.

As the candlelight flickered, Lü Yi was suddenly seen quietly entering.

"You've come at just the right time."

Sun Quan threw down his pen and sighed, "The battle reports from the front are still not arriving, and I am unable to eat or sleep in peace."

"I've heard that the Qi army has already crossed the river in large numbers. I wonder if Sun Shao's remaining troops can withstand them?"

Lu Yi bowed and said with a fawning smile:

"...Your Majesty is overthinking it."

"The Yangtze River is a natural barrier; how can it be easily crossed?"

"Although General Sun has suffered a minor setback, after recruiting and replenishing his troops, he still has more than 100,000 soldiers."

"Furthermore, last winter, His Majesty also distributed cattle, sheep, and poultry to nourish the soldiers."

"The soldiers on the front lines are now all incredibly energetic and vigorous."

"Even if Chen Yuanlong possesses extraordinary abilities, he will find it difficult to break through the iron wall of Jiangdong."

Sun Quan slightly relaxed his brow, still rubbing his temples:

"However, if the Han army does not retreat, my heart will not be at ease."

"Even if the Han army does not retreat, Your Majesty's anxiety will be of no use."

Lu Yi stepped closer and whispered, "At this critical time, we must take extra care of your health in order to safeguard the Sun family's three generations of rule."

Sun Quan nodded and sighed:
"You are absolutely right."

Then he ordered the chef to pass on the meal and invited Lu Yi to join him.

After several rounds of drinks, Sun Quan's worries eased somewhat.

Seeing that the time was right, Lü Yi feigned drunkenness and said:
"On such a fine night, to have wine but no music, is that not a pity?"

"I have recently acquired several singing girls, and I wish to present them to Your Majesty to enhance your enjoyment."

Sun Quan waved his hand:

"When the nation is in dire straits, how can we indulge in sensual pleasures?"

Lü Yi said solemnly:
"It's just a song and dance, why be so obsessed with it?"

"Which of the powerful and wealthy families in Jianye doesn't indulge in nightly revelry?"

"Your Majesty is the ruler of a nation, yet you cannot even enjoy a moment of pleasure?"

Upon hearing this, Sun Quan remained silent.

Lu Yi gave a subtle signal, and four women immediately emerged from behind the screen.

The four women were adorned with cloud-like hair and misty tresses, their silk robes gleaming.

When in motion, she is like a willow swaying in the breeze; when still, she is like a lotus emerging from the water.

The woman at the head of the group held a pipa and gently plucked a note, the clear and melodious sound like pearls falling onto a jade plate.

Sun Quan paused, his gaze fixed on the wine cup, unable to look away.

"I have been in the palace for several years and have never seen such a beauty..."

Lü Yi chuckled:

“These are all things that I have collected from my extensive travels throughout Jiangnan, and I present them to Your Majesty.”

As the music began, four women began to dance gracefully.

As her flowing sleeves fluttered, a subtle fragrance wafted through the air.

A song in the soft Wu dialect was sung with a melodious and lingering quality.

As the dance reached its climax, the four women took turns approaching to offer each other a drink.

"With a great battle imminent, I should not drink too much."

Sun Quan initially refused.

The woman in purple smiled sweetly:
"Your Majesty is worried about the affairs of the state and needs to relieve your worries for a while."

"We are willing to share Your Majesty's burdens with songs and dances."

With delicate hands, she presented a golden cup, which Sun Quan could not refuse.

One cup after another, until I was completely drunk.

At midnight, Sun Quan, his eyes glazed with drunkenness, suddenly grasped Lü Yi's hand and sighed:

"If Gongjin were still alive, how could I have come to this..."

Lu Yi was secretly alarmed and quickly signaled to the songstress.

The four women understood and gently advised:
"The night is deep and the dew is heavy; Your Majesty, please rest."

Amidst the beautiful woman's gentle words, Sun Quan was helped into the inner palace.

Inside the independent hall, listening to the distant sound of the water clock, a smile gradually appeared on his lips.

Suddenly, a palace attendant rushed in with a panic:

"Lu Zhongshu, an urgent messenger from the front has arrived!"

Lü Yi's expression changed drastically:

"Stop them! We must not alert the King at this moment!"

"But the military situation is urgent..."

"Even if it's urgent, we have to wait until tomorrow!"

Lü Yi said sternly, "If you disturb His Majesty's peaceful sleep, can you bear the consequences?!"

The eunuch was terrified and retreated respectfully.

Lü Yi strode out of the palace and saw a travel-worn messenger being stopped by guards outside the palace gate.

"General Sun's army has been defeated at Ruxukou, and the Qi army has already landed!"

The messenger, panting, cried, "Please...please report to the King immediately!"

Lü Yi said coldly:
"The king has rested."

"Any military reports will be submitted tomorrow."

"But……"

"Get out!"

Lü Yi turned around and ordered the guards, "Guard the palace gates. No one is allowed to enter!"

Back in the hall, the pipa was still on the ground.

Lü Yi picked up the strings and gently plucked them, producing a clear and mournful sound.

A sudden autumn wind blew outside the window, causing the palace lanterns to flicker.

From the inner palace came Sun Quan's indistinct murmurs in his sleep:
"My lads... hold the riverbank..."

Ha ha.

Lu Yi glanced at the inner hall and then leisurely withdrew.

The next day at 9:00 AM

Sunlight streamed through the carved window lattice, casting dappled shadows on the brocade curtains.

Sun Quan slowly woke up, feeling a splitting headache. Four beauties were already standing by his bedside, holding a hangover soup.

"The king has awakened."

The woman in purple spoke softly, her slender hand gently pressing Sun Quan's temples, "I'll rub them for you."

Sun Quan closed his eyes to enjoy the moment, then suddenly laughed:

"...Last night felt like being in paradise."

"I wish to take you into the palace as my concubines. Are you willing?"

The four women bowed in unison:

"I'm so lucky!"

Just then, the sound of the noon bell came from outside the window.

Sun Quan suddenly sat up and slapped his forehead:
"Oh no! We'll be late for the morning court session!"

The woman in yellow hurriedly brought over a golden basin:

"Your Majesty, please do not rush. Wash up and change your clothes first."

The woman in orange said softly:
"The ruler is the sovereign and the father, and the subject is the subject and the son."

"How can a ruler apologize to his subject?"

"Since we have already missed the appointed time, we might as well go to court tomorrow."

Sun Quan frowned and hesitated before saying:

"This... I'm afraid it will dishearten you all."

The woman in green covered her mouth and laughed:

"It is precisely because Your Majesty is usually too lenient that those old ministers have repeatedly dared to speak frankly and offer their advice."

"In the past, King Zhuang of Chu remained silent for three years, but when he finally spoke, he astonished everyone. When did his ministers ever urge him on?"

The woman in purple played the zither at the opportune moment:

"The 'Shang Xie' melody was not finished last night. Would Your Majesty like to hear the rest?"

Sun Quan asked in surprise:

"Is there anything better?"

The four women smiled sweetly and rose gracefully with their flowing sleeves.

The music flowed like water, even more enchanting than the night before.

Unbeknownst to Sun Quan, he picked up his wine cup again and sighed:
"Then... let's listen to one more song..."

Meanwhile, dozens of ministers had gathered outside the palace gates.

Zhang Zhao's white hair trembled as he leaned on his cane and roared angrily:

"The sun is already high in the sky, how can Your Majesty not attend court! What exactly happened last night?"

The guard stammered.

Suddenly, a young eunuch slipped out, knelt down, and reported:
"Last night, Lü Zhongshu presented four singing girls to Your Majesty, but Your Majesty has not yet risen."

Zhang Zhao was furious and led his men straight into the palace gates.

Just then, Lü Yi arrived with his guards.

"Do you intend to rebel?"

Lu Yi shouted sternly.

Zhang Zhao struck the bluestone with his staff:

"A treacherous villain! How dare he bewitch the king in a time of crisis!"

Lu Yi, his face flushed red, shouted:
"Zhang Zibu, stop defaming my reputation!"

"After Gu Yong left, do you really think you can control the court alone?"

"With the nation in peril and enemy troops pressing in, you have actually led the king to indulge in wine and women!"

Zhang Zhao's hair and beard stood on end. "Today, even if it costs me my life, I will see Your Majesty!"

Lü Yi waved his hand, ordering the guards to draw their halberds:
"His Majesty is resting. Anyone who dares to trespass on the palace will be killed without exception!"

The officials were in an uproar.

Shi Yi stepped forward and advised:

“Lu Zhongshu, even if you need to provide protection, you should let the old ministers like Zhang Gong go inside to wait.”

Lü Yi chuckled coldly:
"Who knows if you have been secretly communicating with the north?"

Zhang Zhao trembled with rage and cried out in anguish to the heavens:
"My lord! Look upon the descendants of Wu!"

"The kingdom of Wu is about to be destroyed by these treacherous officials!"

The faint sounds of string and wind instruments could be heard from within the palace walls.

Zhang Zhao, tears streaming down his face, suddenly threw his hat to the ground.
"I, an old minister who has served three dynasties, have witnessed the Wu Palace transformed into King Zhou's Deer Terrace!"

Having said that, he turned to the assembled officials and said, "Let's go and see how long this treacherous minister can remain arrogant!"

As the officials withdrew, Lü Yi secretly wiped away his sweat.

Suddenly, a palace attendant summoned him:

"Lu Zhongshu, the King summons you to a banquet."

Inside the hall, Sun Quan, his eyes still blurry with drunkenness, raised his cup and said:

"My dear minister, you've come at the perfect time. These beauties say they wish to present a new song..."

Lü Yi knelt down and said

"Your Majesty, Zhang Zhao and his men attempted to force their way into the palace, but I have already rebuked them."

Sun Quan waved his hand and laughed:

"Zibu is getting old, and his temperament is becoming more and more stubborn."

"Come, drink with me!"

As the music resumed, Lü Yi glanced over and saw a hint of smugness flash in the eyes of the four women.

When Zhang Zhao and other veteran officials left the palace gates, their faces were ashen.

"The nation is doomed!"

Zhang Zhao looked up at the sky and sighed in despair, almost crushing the scepter in his hand.

Suddenly, Shi Yi had an idea and offered his advice:
"How about we ask Lady Wu to intervene?"

"The Empress Dowager is always wise and reasonable; perhaps she can persuade Your Majesty."

The officials suddenly realized what was happening and hurriedly escorted the Empress Dowager to her palace.

Lady Wu was chanting scriptures before the Buddha when she saw her ministers approaching in a panic. She asked in surprise:
Why are you all in such a panic?

Zhang Zhao prostrated himself on the ground and wept:

"Your Majesty! The Qi army is pressing in, yet the King is indulging in wine and women, and today he has even suspended court and neglected state affairs."

"We, your humble servants, were obstructed by Lü Yi when we offered our advice. We beg the Empress Dowager to do us justice!"

The prayer beads in Wu Guotai's hand suddenly broke, and the sandalwood beads rolled to the ground.
"Is this true?"

Shi Yi kowtowed repeatedly.

"Lu Yi presented four beauties to the king, and the king feasted day and night."

"It is already past noon, yet the court has not yet convened!"

Lady Wu suddenly stood up, her phoenix eyes filled with sternness:

"I'd like to see what kind of vixen she is!"

When the Empress Dowager arrived, the guards all knelt down and dared not stop her.

The palace gates burst open with a roar, revealing a scene of revelry inside, where four women were urging Sun Quan to drink.

"Quan'er!"

Wu Guotai let out a sharp shout, which was like a thunderclap.

Sun Quan, his eyes still blurry with drunkenness, saw his mother arrive and hurriedly got up:
"Why is Mother here...?"

The four women and Lü Yi were already kneeling on the ground, trembling.

Lady Wu was heartbroken and could not help but shed tears, saying:

Where is your ambition?

"Where has your youthful spirit and high aspirations gone?"

"With the enemy army invading our borders and Jianye in imminent danger, how can you still have the mind to indulge in the pleasures of the brothel!"

Sun Quan said with embarrassment:
"I've just been under too much pressure lately... that's why..."

"A lot of pressure?"

Lady Wu sneered, "The soldiers on the front lines are fighting bloody battles, and you're under a lot of pressure in the palace?"

As she spoke, her gaze swept over the four women.

"What a beautiful woman!"

"No wonder she's such a seducer!"

After saying that, he raised his hand and slapped the woman in purple across the face.

The woman cried out in pain and fell into Sun Quan's arms.

Sun Quan hurriedly protected her:

"Mother! It's none of their business!"

Seeing this, Lady Wu became even angrier:

Do you remember King Fuchai of Wu? He protected Xi Shi in the same way back then!

Sun Quan defended himself by saying:
"The downfall of the kingdom was King Fuchai's fault; what did it have to do with Xi Shi?"

"Incompetent!"

Lady Wu pointed at Lü Yi, "Is this the beauty presented by this treacherous minister?"

Lü Yi kowtowed repeatedly, begging for mercy:
"Your Majesty, I only wish to share your burdens..."

"Share the worries?"

Wu Guotai sneered, "Shu Diao and Yi Ya also 'shared the burdens' for Duke Huan of Qi in the same way back then!"

Sun Quan frowned and said in a deep voice:

"Mother, you're exaggerating."

"Lu Yi's loyalty is beyond question..."

Lady Wu sighed deeply, and suddenly tears streamed down her face:

"I'm too old to persuade you anymore."

"I only ask that you temporarily put the affairs of the state aside, for the sake of the hard-won legacy of your father and brother."

He then tried to kneel down.

Sun Quan was greatly alarmed and hurriedly stepped forward to support him:
"Mother, you're making your child feel terrible!"

He glanced around at the mess inside the hall and finally regained some of his senses.

"I know I was wrong."

He immediately ordered the banquet to be canceled and changed his clothes to attend court.

As Wu Guotai was leaving, she said coldly:
"These four people..."

Sun Quan hesitated for a moment, then pleaded:

"Now that she has been officially appointed, it would be controversial to dismiss her without cause."

"I promise my mother that I will no longer indulge in it."

After the Empress Dowager left, Sun Quan indeed reviewed memorials until late at night.

However, rumors began to circulate in the palace that although the king was in charge of state affairs, he still kept his four daughters in a side hall.

Although Lü Yi was reprimanded, he retained his official position.

Upon hearing the news, Zhang Zhao wept bitterly at home, beating his chest.

"If even the Empress Dowager's intervention results in this, then the Kingdom of Wu is doomed!"

That night, a fierce storm raged in Jianye, and the eaves bells jingled incessantly.

Inside the side hall,
The four women gazed towards the direction of Wu Guotai's palace, a cold smile playing on their lips.

The woman in purple gently touched her swollen cheek, a cold glint flashing in her eyes:
"The old woman ruined my plans... Let's see who has the last laugh."

……

(End of this chapter)