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

Chapter 390 Jiangdong's Swan Song, Sun Shiwan's Farewell!

Meanwhile, news of Sun Shao surrendering to the Han with his remaining 70,000 troops spread like wildfire throughout Jiangdong.

The garrison commanders in the distant counties of Jiangnan heard that their former commander had changed sides.

They all looked at each other, bewildered and at a loss.

Because Sun Shao's troops were the main force of the Wu army.

Even the main force has surrendered, so what need is there for these people to resist?
That morning

Sun Shao stood on the riverbank, gazing at his homeland on the opposite bank, his expression unusually solemn.

Deputy General Han Zong stepped forward and asked:

"Since the Commander-in-Chief has already returned to Han, why is he still hesitant?"

Gazing at the rolling river, Sun Shao sighed deeply:
"It's not hesitation, it's heartbreak."

"We are crossing the river today not for personal grudges, but for the sake of all living beings."

"Yet the swords and spears are ultimately aimed at the homeland and its rivers and mountains."

Han Zongnai cupped his hands and said:

"...The ruler of Wu lost his virtue, and the people suffered greatly."

"Now that the Han dynasty has been restored, it is the mandate of heaven. The governor's actions are truly in accordance with the will of heaven and the people."

Sun Shao nodded silently, then raised his arms and shouted:
"All troops, listen to my command! Cross the river!"

Seventy thousand Wu soldiers changed their banners to Han.

Boats lined the river, banners obscured the sun, heading straight for the counties south of the Yangtze River.

Upon arriving at Wanling City, the defending general was Zhao Tong, an old friend of Sun Shao.

Upon seeing Sun Shao's banner, Zhao Tong climbed the city wall to look out and called out loudly:
Why did Governor Sun betray Wu?

Sun Shao spurred his horse forward and answered loudly:
"It was not Sun Shao who betrayed Wu, but the ruler of Wu who betrayed the people!"

"Have you not seen the people of Jiangdong who are starving and poorly clothed?"

"Aren't taxes increasing daily and corvée labor endless?"

"The current Han emperor is benevolent and virtuous, and has sent troops eastward precisely to relieve the people from their dire straits."

"General Zhao is known for his love for his soldiers as if they were his own children. Why don't we raise the banner of righteousness together and save the people from their suffering?"

Zhao Tong immediately cursed:

"Could it be that the King of Wu was the one who robbed the people of their grain last winter?"

"How can you have the nerve to say you're doing this for the sake of the people when you allow your subordinates to plunder them?"

Upon hearing this, Sun Shao blushed and immediately retorted loudly:

“If the King of Wu had not withheld our provisions, our soldiers would have been extremely poor and countless would have starved to death.”

Why would I go so far as to rob the people of their food?

Since surrendering to the Han dynasty, Sun Shao seems to have been making excuses for himself.

Everything was done under the banner of righteousness, and everything was done for the sake of the common people.

Because he knew perfectly well in his heart that he was now betraying the Lord.

Only by justifying it with a righteous cause can he feel better.

Seeing that Zhao Tong did not answer, Sun Shao lost his patience and raised his whip, shouting:
"No matter how you look at it!"

"The entire Wu army is in my hands. How many soldiers do you have in your city? Do you dare to resist my army?"

“Even if they can defeat me, I still have Chen Yuanlong’s 200,000 Han troops behind me.”

"Let's see how you resist!"

"For the sake of our past friendship, quickly open the city gates and I'll spare your life."

"Otherwise, the city will fall, people will die, and the old and young will be left without mercy!"

Zhao Tong remained silent for a long time before finally opening the city gates and leading his people to surrender.

Wanling then surrendered without a fight.

In the following month, Sun Shao led his army to capture several cities, including Wuhu and Shicheng.

Most of the generals defending Wu territory were not very motivated to fight.

Some, out of respect for Chen Deng's reputation or gratitude for Sun Shao's persuasion, mostly followed suit.

Those who resisted occasionally surrendered soon after seeing that morale had collapsed.

at the same time,

General Chen Deng, the Han general who led the southern expedition, followed closely behind with 5,000 vanguard troops to pacify the newly annexed counties.

Upon arriving at Wanling that day, he saw that the city was well-ordered and couldn't help but nod in approval.

After entering the city, Chen Deng did not stay in the government office, but instead went to the market.

Seeing an old woman selling coarse cloth on the street, I went up to her and asked:
"How is the old lady's business lately?"

The old woman, not recognizing him as a general, sighed:

“In the past, the Wu officials levied heavy taxes, taking seven out of ten bolts of cloth.”

"Now that we have heard that the Han army has arrived, the market tax will be temporarily waived. Perhaps we can exchange three or four bolts of cloth for rice."

Chen Deng was moved, so he summoned his attendants to fetch three bolts of brocade from the army and gave them to the old woman.

"This is not an official item; it is a private gift from me."

"The arrival of the Han army will surely allow the people to return to their livelihoods in peace."

The old woman was astonished when someone told her that this was the Han general who had led the southern expedition, and she hurriedly knelt down to thank him.

Chen Deng quickly helped him up:

"Madam, please stand up."

"The restoration of the Han dynasty is not about seizing land and cities, but about starting anew with the people."

The next day,

Chen Deng summoned local elders to inquire about the people's suffering.

They learned that years of war had left the male population scarce and agriculture neglected.

He then ordered the soldiers to help with spring plowing and opened up military rations to relieve the poor.

A local landlord asked in doubt:

"General, can this kindness last?"

Chen Deng replied with a smile:

"His Majesty, the Holy Ruler, often says:"

"Those who have accomplished great things throughout history have all put the people first and valued the people most; the ruler is less important than the people."

"Our Han dynasty has always governed the world with the people as its foundation."

"We are temporarily borrowing military rations to alleviate the emergency, and will wait until after the autumn harvest."

"But according to the old system of Emperor Gaozu, one-fifteenth of the taxes shall be paid, and we will never break our promise."

The news spread,

The people were all deeply moved and, day by day, more and more people brought food and drink to welcome the Han army.

In the following days, whenever Chen Deng visited a county, he would set aside his airs and personally step in to appease the local people.

Because he knew the Han army hadn't come to Jiangnan for sightseeing.
Rather, it's for long-term survival here.

Therefore, it is necessary to win over the hearts of the people in Jiangnan.

Therefore, although Sun Shao's army marched extremely fast and had almost pushed the battle line to Jianye.

However, the Han army led by Chen Deng marched very slowly.

It is precisely because wherever they go, they bring peace and stability.

Take it one step at a time and digest it gradually.

Chen Deng hoped that with each city he conquered, the enemy would submit willingly and wholeheartedly.

What if something goes wrong after we part ways?

Half a month later, Chen Deng marched to Wuhu.

It was during the plum rain season, and the river swelled, submerging low-lying farmhouses and villages.

Despite the filth, Chen Deng personally led his soldiers to build dikes and drain water, saving the people from the flood.

That evening

When Chen Deng returned from inspecting the dikes, his clothes were soaked and he was covered in mud.

Suddenly, an old man and his young grandson knelt by the roadside, offering them coarse tea.

"General, you have worked tirelessly for the country and its people. Please drink this tea."

The old man wept and bowed deeply.

Chen Deng hurriedly helped him up:

"...Please rise, sir."

"As parents of the people, how can we sit idly by and watch our people suffer?"

After finishing his drink, he asked the child:

"What books are you reading?"

The child answered:

"My family was poor, and I never received any education."

Chen Deng sighed and said to his attendants:
"...In the past, during the reigns of Emperors Wen and Jing, the most important thing was education and moral guidance."

"Once the Jiangnan region is somewhat pacified, we should establish village schools so that even children from poor families can study the classics."

Several days later, the army captured several spies, all of whom were sent by the Wu ruler to spread rumors.

His subordinates requested that he be executed, but Chen Deng replied:

"Each serves their own master; what crime have they committed?"

He then gave him some silver and let him go.

Han Zong, puzzled, asked:
"General, if you let the enemy run rampant, aren't you just raising a tiger to cause trouble?"

Chen Deng laughed and explained:
"The hearts of the people in Jiangdong have turned to Han. Even if there are rumors, who can believe them?"

"Releasing the spy today demonstrates my magnanimity."

"The Wu ruler is suspicious and will surely doubt that we have submitted to him. This is the best strategy to win his heart."

Let me talk about two things.

When news of Sun Shao's surrender to the Han and subsequent capture of several cities reached Jianye, the imperial court was shaken.

Upon hearing the news, Zhang Zhao nearly dropped the jade tablet in his hand, and said in a trembling voice:
"Sun Bofu's arduous journey in starting his business has unexpectedly ended today at the hands of women and children!"

The next day's meeting,

When Sun Quan, the ruler of Wu, ascended the throne, he saw the solemn expressions on the faces of his ministers and knew that something was wrong.

Zhang Zhao stepped forward first and announced in a loud voice:

"Your Majesty! Sun Shao's defection has shaken Jiangnan."

"This is all due to the four beauties bewitching the emperor and Lü Yi seizing power and causing chaos in the government."

"We beg Your Majesty to execute these five traitors to appease the hearts of the army and the people!"

Shi Yi also stepped forward and echoed:
"...What Master Zhang said is absolutely right."

"The Qi army is now very powerful, and it cannot be controlled without strict laws and regulations and a restoration of the court."

Sun Quan's face was grim, barely suppressing his anger:

"Do you intend to use external threats to coerce the emperor?"

Zhang Zhao, fearless and unyielding, prostrated himself and wept:
"This old minister has served the Sun family for three generations; how could I dare to have any disloyal thoughts?"

"I have witnessed the nation's precarious state, and I have no choice but to speak frankly and offer my advice!"

"As long as the four beauties are eliminated, Lü Yi will not die."

"The morale of the army is low, and the people's hearts are unsettled!"

In the imperial court, all the officials knelt down to plead, their voices echoing throughout the palace.

Seeing this, Sun Quan knew that the anger of the masses was difficult to defy, but he was unwilling to be controlled by his subjects.

He suddenly slammed his hand on the table and stood up, shouting sternly:

"Having ruled Jiangdong for decades, how could I not know the way to govern a country?"

"With foreign enemies at hand, instead of devising strategies to repel them, you seek to purge the court of corrupt officials. What are your true intentions?"

Therefore, the order was immediately issued:

"Commander of the Imperial Guards, Sun Jing, listen to my command!"

"Immediately mobilize 30,000 imperial guards from across the city to strictly guard the nine gates of the palace."

"Without my personal edict, no one may act without authorization!"

Sun Quan did not go all in.

He still has one last trump card.

That was the 30,000 Imperial Guards protecting the capital, Jianye.

This imperial guard was commanded by Sun Jing, Sun Quan's uncle, and was directly under Sun Quan's control.

This can be considered a way out that Sun Quan left for himself.

Just like in the Battle of Red Cliffs in history, Sun Quan did not hand over the entire army to Zhou Yu.

He still kept the Imperial Guards under his command, just so he could escape in the future.

After the order was given,
Armored soldiers poured into the court, their swords flashing menacingly.

Upon seeing this, all the officials turned pale.

Zhang Zhao looked up at the sky and sighed:
"Your Majesty's obsession has reached this point; Jiangdong is doomed!"

Now that Sun Quan had taken control of the military, he softened his tone and said:

"Now that the Han army is pressing on our borders, do any of you have a good strategy?"

Zhang Zhao said sadly:
“Sun Shao is familiar with our army’s deployment, and the Qi army will arrive soon.”

"Jianye is too hasty to defend, the only option is... to abandon the city."

As soon as he finished speaking, the court erupted in uproar.

Attendant Zheng Quan said urgently:

"No! Jianye is the capital of Wu; how can we abandon it so easily?"

Lu Xun's cousin, Lu Mao, argued:

"It would be better to retreat to Kuaiji and defend it by relying on the natural defenses of the mountains and the sea."

"The Qi army has come from afar and is exhausted; they will not be able to hold out for long."

"Wait until they retreat, then try to recover the lost territory."

Before he could finish speaking, Shi Yi interrupted:
"Kuaiji is too remote. It would be better to retreat to Wu County and take advantage of Taihu Lake."

The group was unable to reach a consensus.

Sun Quan remained silent for a long time, then suddenly said:
“Fuchun is my ancestral home, surrounded by mountains and water, a place that can be defended or retreated from.”

"Move the capital to Fuchun immediately!"

Zhang Zhao exclaimed in surprise:

"Your Majesty! Moving the capital is a momentous matter; how can we make a hasty decision?"

"Furthermore, all the officials' families are in Jianye. Shouldn't we consider this matter more carefully first?"

Sun Quan sneered:
"We must act quickly, otherwise, when the Qi army is at the city gates, you will likely have to hand over my head to Chen Deng!"

Sun Quan could also see that many of his officials were already considering surrendering to the Han.

If Sun Quan hadn't kept a trump card, he wouldn't have been able to firmly control the Imperial Guards.

Then many officials will betray Chen Deng!

Immediately, Sun Quan issued an order:
"Imperial Guards, listen to my command! Effective immediately, relocate all property and provisions from the Jianye Treasury."

"All the concubines, civil and military officials and their families in the palace shall move to the capital with the emperor."

"Anyone who dares to disobey will be punished for treason!"

Upon receiving the order, the entire court was stunned.

Shi Yi said in a trembling voice:
"Is Your Majesty's action an attempt to coerce your ministers?"

Sun Quan said indifferently:
"Since you are subjects of Wu, you should share weal and woe with me."

"Could it be that someone has already harbored disloyal intentions?"

At that moment, no one dared to object anymore.

The Imperial Guards acted immediately, sealing the treasury and government offices, closing the city gates, and forcibly relocating all officials.

The city of Jianye was immediately filled with deafening cries and screams.

The imperial guards went door to door, urging the officials to prepare for battle.

In Zhang Zhao's residence, an old minister sighed to his family:
"My lord was a young prodigy, a hero for all time."

"How did things come to this? I have no idea who caused it."

"I only know one thing: if I take this desperate measure now, I fear I will never see the elders of Jiangdong again."

However, when Yi was "invited" out of the mansion by the Imperial Guards, she looked up to the sky and wept:

"Unexpectedly, the foundation of Eastern Wu has come to an end in this way!"

Chaos reigned in the city, and official boats crowded the riverbanks.

Officials who attempted to flee home were all intercepted by the Imperial Guards.

A scholar angrily denounced the escorting officer:
"We are officials appointed by the imperial court, not prisoners. Why are you forcing us like this?"

The officer replied coldly:

"I am acting under orders, please do not be offended, sir."

"After arriving in Fuchun, he will naturally regain his freedom."

Riverside

Sun Quan stood on the warship, watching the bustling scene of migration, his face gloomy.

Zhou Yin came to report:
"Your Majesty, the gold and silk from the treasury have been loaded onto the ships, and most of the officials and their families have been invited aboard."

"However... there are still dozens of officials who remain hidden."

A cold glint flashed in Sun Quan's eyes. He said sternly:

"Set their house on fire and see if they come out!"

in an instant,
Multiple fires broke out in Jianye City, with thick black smoke billowing into the air.

Cries, shouts, and the clanging of armor filled the air.

The once prosperous capital city has become a living hell.

Standing at the bow of the boat, Zhang Zhao saw Jianye City engulfed in smoke and fire, and tears streamed down his face.

"In the past, Xiang Yu, the Hegemon-King, would rather die than cross the Yangtze River to the east. Now, our Eastern Wu is about to abandon Jianye and flee. Is this not the will of Heaven?"

Upon hearing this, Sun Quan angrily said:

"Why would Zhang Zibu utter such ominous words!"

"In the past, Goujian lived in Kuaiji, and eventually he was able to destroy Wu and avenge his humiliation."

"We will temporarily avoid the limelight, but we will surely make a comeback in the future!"

crazy.

Completely crazy!
Every official felt that Sun Zhongmou was a complete stranger.

Is this still the same young prodigy they knew, the young leader who brought Jiangdong to power?
What exactly made them become like this?
correct!

It was the treacherous minister Lü Yi.

Those few beauties who brought ruin to the country!

They must have bewitched the king!
An unnamed rage ignited in everyone's heart.

at this time,

Looking at the scene along the riverbank, people, young and old, were running and crying.

The officials looked terrified, as if they were going to their execution.

The soldiers whipped them away mercilessly.

Such a scene makes it hard for anyone to believe that it could make a comeback.

As the last group of ships left the shore, a small boat suddenly appeared in pursuit, and a man on board shouted:

"Your subject is Kan Ze, and I wish to accompany Your Majesty!"

Sun Quan asked in surprise:
Why is Derun so late?

Kan Ze lifted his robe and bowed:

"This old minister was just organizing the classics and could not bear to see the hard work of our ancestors fall into enemy hands, so I came late."

Sun Quan was moved by his loyalty and righteousness, and ordered his men to help him board the ship.

However, upon observing the officials, I found that most of them were intimidated rather than virtuous, which saddened me deeply.

The fleet sailed eastward in a grand procession, gradually receding into the distance from Jianye City, until it finally disappeared into the horizon.

Sun Quan stood alone at the bow of the boat, the river breeze brushing his face, and suddenly recalled his youth when he discussed the affairs of the world with Zhou Yu and Lü Meng.

What lofty ambitions we had back then!

Unexpectedly, today they are like stray dogs, fleeing with their followers.

Suddenly, a commotion was heard from the boat behind. It turned out that an official was trying to jump into the river but was rescued by soldiers.

Sun Quan remained silent for a moment, then gave the order:

"...I will offer you wine to calm your nerves."

"Inform everyone that once we arrive at Fuchun, those who wish to leave may do so as they please; I will not force anyone to stay."

Zhang Zhao, who was standing nearby, nodded slightly upon hearing this.
"Has Your Majesty finally realized that forced marriages are never sweet?"

Sun Quan sighed:

"It wasn't enlightenment, but rather a matter of necessity."

"I only hope that Heaven will not destroy Wu, so that I may be able to preserve a corner of Jiangdong and continue my family line."

The sun sets in the west, and the river flows eastward.

The fleet, carrying the last hope of a dynasty, slowly sailed towards Fuchun.

At this time, Jianye City was deserted and desolate.

All that remained was for the Han army to arrive and take over this ownerless capital.

……

When Chen Deng led the Han army to Jianye, they saw thick smoke obscuring the sun and flames soaring into the sky.

The once bustling capital city is now a sea of ​​fire.

The Wu flags on the city wall were half-burned, fluttering in the smoke like dying butterflies.

"Sun Quan actually set fire to the city!"

Chen Deng stopped his horse and gazed into the distance, his face filled with sorrow.

“I originally intended to resolve things peacefully with the Sun family, but I did not expect them to be so ruthless. It seems that the two families cannot settle things amicably.”

Jiang Qin asked from the side:

"General, the fire is raging skyward, what should we do?"

Chen Deng pointed forward with his whip:

"Put out the fire first!"

"Order the entire army to immediately put out the fire and rescue people."

"We can disregard wealth and provisions; the lives of the people are of utmost importance!"

Han soldiers abandoned their weapons, grabbed buckets, and plunged into the fire to save people.

Chen Deng personally led the crowd to extinguish the fire in the government warehouse, working tirelessly for a day and a night.

It just so happens to be the plum rain season in Jiangnan, and the weather is perfect.

Heavy rain poured down, and the fire gradually died down.

After the fire was extinguished,
Chen Deng immediately ordered his men to search for survivors and provide relief to the people.

He then sent people to inventory the government treasury.

Before long, the quartermaster came in a panic to report:
"The government granaries are almost empty, with only one-tenth of the grain remaining. The gold, silver, and silk are either empty or burned. There is almost nothing usable left."

Chen Deng remained silent for a long time, then finally sighed:
"The soldiers have been fighting hard for a long time and are all looking forward to breaking through the city and receiving their reward."

"Now that we have an empty city, what should we do?"

Jiang Qin stepped forward and whispered:

“There are already complaints about morale among the troops. If rewards are not continued, there is a risk of unforeseen changes.”

Zhou Tai also asked:
"Sun Quan has fled. Does the general wish to pursue him?"

Chen Deng pondered for a long time before saying:
"Without capturing Sun Quan, this battle cannot be won."

Therefore, it was imperative to divide our forces to pursue them.

"However, the morale of the troops is unstable, so we need to appease the soldiers and suspend the advance."

The generals all volunteered to pursue the enemy.

Chen Deng, however, said:

"It was during the plum rain season, and the roads were muddy. Only elite troops could move quickly."

"I will personally lead 10,000 elite troops to pursue them. You gentlemen, stay in Jianye and pacify the soldiers and civilians."

"The army can proceed slowly and catch up with me gradually."

Justified agreement,

Suddenly a rider appeared, it was none other than Liu Li, the supervising general and Prince of Liang.

The young prince reined in his horse and cracked his whip, saying:

"General Chen, how can you pursue the enemy without a military supervisor? I request to accompany you!"

Chen Deng declined:

"Your Highness is of noble birth, but the road to Fuchun is treacherous, and there may be unforeseen circumstances."

Liu Li proudly declared:
"A true man should fear neither mountains of knives nor seas of fire in his quest for glory and achievement."

"As the military supervisor of Huainan Army, how can I possibly retreat in the face of battle!"

Chen Deng was still hesitating when he suddenly saw another group of people rushing towards them, and the leader shouted:
"Third brother, wait!"

It turned out that it was Prince Liu Yong of Lu who had arrived with his personal guards.

Liu Yong's whip pointed directly at:

"Capturing the Wu ruler is an unparalleled achievement. Does Third Brother intend to claim it all for himself?"

Liu Li's expression changed and he said:
"Why do you say that, Second Brother?"

"As the military supervisor of Huainan Army, it is my duty to follow the army in pursuit."

"But why did my second brother, as the military supervisor of Jingzhou, overstep his authority?"

Liu Yong burst into laughter upon hearing this:

"All land under heaven belongs to Han, why distinguish between Jingzhou and Huainan?"

"My third brother is preventing me from going with him. Does he want to claim all the credit for capturing Wu and curry favor with the Emperor?"

Liu Li blushed and said seriously:
"Second brother, stop talking nonsense! I have no such intention!"

Seeing the two kings fighting, Chen Deng hurriedly stepped in to mediate:

"...Since the Prince of Lu is willing to go, please accompany him."

"An extra force increases the chances of victory."

Liu Yong then turned his anger into joy and led his troops to join the army.

Zhuge Ke, a cavalry commander under Liu Li, was displeased and whispered to Liu Li:
“The King of Lu’s visit is ill-intentioned; I fear it is not to seize power.”

"In reality, it was to monitor His Highness."

Liu Li smiled and replied softly:

"...Yuan Xun is overthinking things."

"Since we're here, let's make the best of it. It seems we won't be 'lonely' on this journey."

Therefore, Chen Deng led 10,000 elite troops, along with two princes, in pursuit towards Fuchun.

The rain was heavy and the roads were muddy.

The soldiers trudged through the muddy water, their steps uneven.

Liu Yong indeed found fault with him from time to time.

On the third day of the march, the rain intensified, and Liu Yong proclaimed to the army:

"General Chen chose such terrible weather to pursue them. Could it be that he has a past relationship with Sun Quan and is deliberately letting him escape far away?"

Upon hearing this, Chen Deng responded only indifferently:

"The art of war lies in surprise."

“Sun Quan will never expect our army to pursue us in the rain, which is the perfect opportunity to catch him off guard.”

Liu Li then ordered Zhuge Ke to carefully record the marching route and weather conditions to prevent Liu Yong from making false accusations later.

After traveling for another two days, the vanguard captured several deserters from Wu's army.

Interrogation revealed that Sun Quan was traveling with a large amount of treasure and officials.

Their movements are slow; they have only traveled a little over a hundred li so far.

Chen Deng was overjoyed and immediately ordered the entire army to speed up.

Liu Yong, however, caused trouble again:
"General, you have too much faith in the words of surrendered soldiers. What if you fall into an ambush?"

Chen Deng replied neither humbly nor arrogantly:

"...Don't worry, Your Highness."

"Multiple scouts have been dispatched to investigate. If an ambush is encountered, there will be an early warning."

Sure enough, scouts soon reported that Wu troops were indeed lying in ambush on the mountain path ahead.

Chen Deng then divided his troops and bypassed the ambush, turning the ambush into an ambush that was subsequently annihilated.

Liu Yong was speechless.

Liu Li then whispered to Zhuge Ke:
"Chen Yuanlong is truly a talented general."

"No wonder he is trusted by the Emperor and loved by his uncle."

The rain continued for seven days, and the Han army marched arduously, finally approaching the Fuchun River.

At dusk that day, a scout urgently reported—

Wu's fleet has been spotted crossing the river ahead!

Chen Deng immediately summoned his generals and gave them instructions:
"The Wu army is halfway across the river, which is the perfect opportunity to attack them."

"However, the enemy's forces outnumber ours several times over, so we need to divide our forces to harass them and wait for their rear to arrive before launching a full-scale attack."

Liu Yong replied:

Why not launch a full-scale attack?

"If we wait for their entire army to cross the river and hold their ground, it will be even more difficult to conquer them."

Chen Deng explained:
“Sun Quan has taken officials and commoners hostage, and his fleet is enormous; crossing the river will not be completed in a short time.”

"Our troops can divide their forces to go upstream, set fire to the ships, disrupt their morale, and then attack them to achieve complete success."

Liu Li supported Chen Deng's strategy.

The two kings started arguing again.

Fortunately, Li Yi had clearly stipulated that the military supervisor had no right to interfere with the decision-making power of the frontline commander.

Therefore, the final command and dispatch were left to Chen Deng to decide.

Therefore, Chen Deng made the final decision:

"The troops split into three groups: one group went upstream to burn the boats."

"One side launches a feint attack from the front, while the other lies in ambush and waiting for an opportunity."

"This is the best possible solution."

Although Liu Yong was dissatisfied, he had no choice but to obey.

That night,

The Han army followed the plan and indeed inflicted a major defeat on the rear guard of the Wu army.

Dozens of ships were burned, and countless officials and their valuables were captured.

However, when the prisoners were counted, Sun Quan was nowhere to be found.

The experienced Sun Quan had already anticipated that the Han army might pursue them.

He led his elite troops, lightly armed, ahead of the main force, which was merely bait.

Liu Yong was furious and rebuked Chen Deng:
"General, your military strategy is divine, why did you allow Sun Quan to escape?"

Chen Deng responded calmly:

“Sun Quan has managed Jiangdong for decades, so he must have a way to escape.”

"Now that they have abandoned their troops and fled, they have reached a dead end."

"We should appease the surrendered people, reorganize our troops, and then plan our next move."

Liu Li also chimed in from the side:

"Why is my second brother in such a hurry?"

"Although Sun Quan has fled, his foundation has been lost, and it is only a matter of time before he is captured."

The rain continued to fall, and the fireworks on the Fuchun River had not yet gone out.

Looking at the surging river, Chen Deng knew that the pursuit and capture of Sun Quan would likely take some more trouble.

The power struggle between the two princes around him was perhaps even more difficult than pursuing Sun Quan.

The Han army then set up camp on the banks of the Fuchun River, reorganized their troops, and prepared for the next step of their operation.

Meanwhile, Sun Quan had already fled into the mountains of Kuaiji, and a new chase was about to begin.

……

Sun Quan led his remaining troops into the mountains of Kuaiji, where the continuous plum rains made the mountain roads muddy and difficult to traverse.

The soldiers of Wu's army were soaked in sweat, their food supplies were running low, and their morale was declining day by day.

That night, Lü Yi was restless and secretly went to the residence of the Four Beauties.

Seeing the four women combing their wet hair inside the tent, Lü Yi whispered:
"...Ladies, the Han army has now captured Jianye and Fuchun."

"Our troops are trapped deep in the mountains, like turtles in a jar."

"If I stay in the army, my life may be in danger."

The woman in purple lightly waved her fan and said leisurely:
"Why do you say that, Lord Lü?"

"The mountains of Kuaiji stretch for hundreds of miles, and the roads are rugged. How could the Han army find them easily?"

"Since General Chen has appointed us as inside agents, how can we leave so easily?"

Lu Yi paced anxiously, saying urgently:

"...My lady, you are unaware of this."

"Not only do civil and military officials regard us as enemies, but even the soldiers in the army are full of resentment."

"Recently, some soldiers whispered that they wanted to take our heads and present them to the Han army!"

The woman in red sneered upon hearing this:
“Since Lord Lü has secretly surrendered to the Han Dynasty, he should know how to write the word ‘loyalty’.”

Have you not heard the saying, "Nothing ventured, nothing gained"?

"To think of retreating at the slightest difficulty is not the behavior of a true man."

Lu Yi blushed and argued:

"I am not afraid of death, but I am acting in the best interests of the country."

"If we are harmed, wouldn't that sever our connection with the Han army?"

Just as the argument was raging, a eunuch's voice came from outside the tent:

"Your Majesty invites your four ladies."

The four women were getting ready to leave. Before departing, the woman in purple whispered to Lü Yi:

"Mr. Lü, please be patient and wait for us to return before we discuss this further."

Upon arriving at Sun Quan's tent, they saw the Wu ruler sitting alone under the lamp, his face haggard.

Upon seeing the four women arrive, Sun Quan sighed:
"...I have caused you all to suffer."

"Thinking back to the days in Jianye Palace, living a life of luxury and ease, who would have thought that I would be trapped in this desolate mountain today?"

The woman in green bowed gracefully and said:
"Why does Your Majesty say such a thing?"

"We would gladly endure any hardship to serve Your Majesty, even if it meant going through fire and water."

Sun Quan was moved and took his hand:
"All the civil and military officials in the court are not as loyal and righteous as you women."

"If one day we can revitalize Jiangdong, we will not let you down."

Enchanted by the four women's gentle words, Sun Quan temporarily forgot his predicament and ordered wine to be brought.
"Tonight, let us drink together and forget our worries for a while."

So he feasted for days on end, indulging in the pleasures of the land.

Inside the tent, music and singing continued, while the aroma of wine and meat wafted out.

This stands in stark contrast to the plight of ordinary soldiers.

outside the account,

The soldiers patrolled in the rain, their clothes completely soaked.

An old soldier complained to his comrades:

“We are starving and freezing in the rain, while they are having fun in their tents.”

"The foundation of Jiangdong has been destroyed by a woman!"

The young sergeant asked in a low voice:
"I've heard that the Han army treats its soldiers well and spares those who surrender. Is that true?"

The old soldier quickly covered his mouth:
"Be careful what you say! If this is heard, your life will be in danger!"

Meanwhile, Lü Yi was restless in his own tent.

Listening to the distant sounds of string and wind instruments, he murmured to himself:
“Sun Quan has lost his will to fight. If he is trapped here, he will eventually be killed by the Wu army.”

"If we don't escape soon, we will be implicated..."

Suddenly the curtain was lifted.
Lu Yi was startled, only to find the woman in purple had quietly arrived.

"Is Lord Lü still worried?"

The woman in purple whispered, "During the banquet just now, I heard that His Majesty intended to move his camp to a deeper place to hide."

"This is a golden opportunity."

Lu Yi asked urgently, "What do you mean, my lady?"

The woman in purple smiled:
"There is a secret path in the mountains that leads to the outside world."

“When we move camp, I can use this as an excuse to lead Mr. Lü down that road.”

"At that time, Mr. Lü may go ahead to see Chen Zhengnan."

Before he could finish speaking, he suddenly heard footsteps approaching outside the tent.

The woman in purple quickly hid in the shadows.

Those who entered were Sun Quan's personal guards:

"Lu Zhongshu, the King summons you."

Lu Yi arrived at Sun Quan's tent with a heart full of fear and saw the Wu ruler with drunken eyes and four women surrounding him.

Sun Quan raised his cup and said:
"Lord Lü, among all the civil and military officials, only you have never abandoned me."

"Come, drink this cup with me!"

Lu Yi forced himself to drink it, his heart pounding with anxiety.

Sun Quan then said:

"I wish to venture deep into the mountains and forests to avoid the sharp edge of the Qi army."

"Minister Lü can lead a group to explore the route first."

Lü Yi was secretly delighted; this was the perfect opportunity to escape.

Just as he was about to accept the order, he suddenly saw the woman in purple shake her head slightly, and he immediately understood:
This was Sun Quan's way of testing the waters!

So he said seriously:
"Your Majesty, I am willing to guard you. As for the matter of investigation, you may send others to investigate."

Sun Quan stared at Lü Yi for a moment, then suddenly burst into laughter:
"Good! Minister Lü is indeed loyal!"

He then ordered someone else to go instead.

Afterwards, Lü Yi secretly asked the woman in purple:
Why did you stop me just now, my lady?

The woman in purple whispered:

“Sun Quan is suspicious; what I was doing just now was a test.”

"If Lord Lü had gladly gone, he would probably already be beheaded by now."

Lu Yi was horrified, and cold sweat poured down his back.

Two more days passed, and Sun Quan continued to indulge in wine and women.

Discontent grew daily among the troops, and some even secretly plotted to capture Sun Quan and surrender him to the Han.

Late on the third night, Lü Yi was suddenly awakened.

He opened his eyes and saw four women in the tent, looking nervous.

The woman in purple said urgently:

"Lord Lü, rise quickly! Some soldiers are planning a mutiny tonight; the situation is urgent!"

“We have already informed our trusted guards to escort Lord Lü out through the secret passage.”

Lü Yi was overjoyed:

"Ladies, are you not coming with me?"

The woman in red sighed:
"If we go along, it will surely arouse suspicion."

“Lu Jun, go quickly and when you see General Chen, tell him... tell him that Sun Quan’s head will be presented to you soon.”

Lü Yi was stunned:

"What do you ladies intend to do?"

The woman in purple interrupted:

"Don't ask any more questions! Let's go!"

He then pushed Lü Yi out of the tent, where several trusted guards were already waiting.

In the rain, Lü Yi looked back and saw that the lights in Sun Quan's tent were still on.

The faint sounds of string and wind instruments could be heard, and I couldn't help but sigh inwardly:

"A hero's end has come to this."

Escorted by guards, Lü Yi quietly disappeared into the rain-shrouded mountains.

At this moment, Sun Quan was still in a drunken stupor, unaware that a crisis was imminent.

The mountain fog grew thicker, and the plum rains continued to fall, concealing countless secret plots and murderous intentions.

On the seventh day of the continuous plum rains, the remnants of Wu's army were trapped deep in the mountains of Kuaiji.

With supplies running low and morale at rock bottom, the army was in dire straits.

That night, dozens of generals held a secret meeting in Wu Guotai's tent.

Veteran general Lü Fan said angrily:
"Kunita!"

"Our army is now trapped in the barren mountains, our food supplies are almost exhausted, and our soldiers are suffering from hunger and cold."

"Yet the king continued to feast and make merry with his four beauties, while honest advice was hard to hear and treacherous officials held sway."

"If this continues, the entire army will perish in these deep mountains!"

Lady Wu silently shed tears:
“I have repeatedly advised Zhongmou, but he was bewitched by a seductive woman and his loyal advice was ignored.”

What are the generals' thoughts?

Zhou Yin said sternly:
"The soldiers are determined to purge the emperor's inner circle, execute Lü Yi, and eliminate the Four Beauties!"

"We beg Your Majesty to take charge!"

All the generals in the tent knelt down and shouted:
"We beg the Empress Dowager to take charge of the overall situation!!"

Lady Wu sighed deeply:
"Although Zhongmou is foolish, he is still my son."

"However, for the sake of the state of Jiangdong, we have no choice but to take extraordinary measures."

"The generals may act as they see fit. I... approve."

With the Empress Dowager's tacit approval, the generals immediately summoned their soldiers.

Immediately, flames erupted throughout the camp as hundreds of soldiers surrounded Sun Quan's main tent.

Sun Quan was feasting with four beauties when he heard a commotion outside the tent and angrily said:

"Who is making the noise outside?"

Lü Fan lifted the curtain and entered, proclaiming loudly:

"Your Majesty! The soldiers request that Lü Yi and the Four Beauties be executed to boost morale!"

Sun Quan was greatly alarmed:

"Lü Fan! Do you intend to rebel?"

Zhou Yin's eyes widened in fury as he spoke:
"It is not that we have rebelled, but that Your Majesty has been misled by treacherous officials."

"The army has been without food for three days, and the soldiers are boiling leather to stave off hunger."

"But the king continued to feast with his concubines."

"If we do not punish the treacherous officials, we will lose the morale of the army!"

At this moment, shouts outside the tent were deafening:

"Slay Lü Yi! Eliminate the demoness!"

Sun Quan's face turned deathly pale, but he forced himself to remain calm:
"Where is Lü Yi...?"

The generals searched the camp, but could not find Lü Yi.

Just then, a commotion was heard outside the camp.

A group of soldiers escorted a disheveled man, who was none other than Lü Yi, who was attempting to escape.

The escorting soldiers reported:
"This man was sneaking out of the camp when he was caught by the patrolling brothers!"

Upon seeing the scene, Lü Yi knelt down and kowtowed repeatedly.

"Your Majesty, save me! I...I was merely out on patrol..."

Lü Fan sneered:

Why should patrols carry valuables and gold?

He then threw the bundle in Lü Yi's arms to the ground, and sure enough, gold and silver jewelry scattered all over the ground.

The soldiers grew even angrier upon seeing this:
"Traitor! Do you intend to escape alone?"

When you framed Lu Xun and forced Gu Yong to leave, did you ever imagine that this day would come?

"Cook this scoundrel to feast the entire army!"

"Yes, cook this scoundrel to feast the entire army!"

Lu Yi turned pale, frantically grabbed Sun Quan's leg, and begged for mercy:
"Your Majesty! I have served you for many years, and even if I have not rendered any great service, I have certainly endured hardship!"

"Please, for the sake of my many years of service to you, save me!!"

Sun Quan initially intended to protect him, but seeing the public's indignation and hating Lü Yi for betraying his lord and fleeing, he finally turned away and said:

"You have brought this upon yourself, and you cannot live without it."

Upon hearing this, the soldiers immediately set up a cauldron of boiling oil.

Lü Yi wailed and begged for mercy, his voice echoing through the mountains and forests.

Zhou Yin shouted sternly:
"When you slandered and harmed loyal and virtuous people, did you ever feel any pity?"

"Today's oil cauldron is the revenge of wronged souls from Jiangdong!"

After a while.
Sun Quan's face was ashen, and he murmured:

"I...I have come to this..."

When Lady Wu arrived after hearing the news, she was overcome with grief upon seeing the tragic scene.

"Have the soldiers' anger subsided at all?"

Lü Fan wept bitterly and knelt down to report:
"...Your Majesty is wise."

"Today, the execution of this treacherous official will somewhat reassure the army."

"However, regarding the provisions..."

Just then, a sentry rushed to report:

The Han army has discovered their whereabouts and is pursuing them into the deep mountains!

Sun Quan, as if waking from a dream, hurriedly asked:

"What can I do?"

Lady Wu solemnly said:

"Does Zhongmou still wish to preserve the four beauties?"

Sun Quan remained silent for a long time, then finally sighed:
"It is up to Mother to decide."

After saying this, Sun Quan returned to his tent dejectedly, his face ashen.

When the four women saw him return, they greeted him with smiles as always, but they saw that Sun Quan was in tears.

"Soldiers... I want you all to be executed."

Sun Quan choked up and said, "I...I am incompetent, and I was unable to save your lives."

Unexpectedly, the four women looked at each other and smiled, their expressions calm and composed.

The woman in purple said softly:

"We are content to have the King's favor in our lives."

"I am willing to die for Your Majesty."

Sun Quan was deeply moved and embraced the four women, weeping bitterly.
"With you as my beloved, what more could I ask for!"

Just as Sun Quan was in turmoil, the four women's expressions suddenly changed.

At the same time, he pulled out the gold hairpin from his head and stabbed it fiercely towards Sun Quan's heart and throat!
"what!"

Sun Quan screamed and forcefully pushed the four women away.

But the four women, as if possessed, pounced again, and the golden hairpins fell like raindrops.

Sun Quan was covered in blood, struggling and calling for help.

Upon hearing the commotion, the soldiers outside the tent rushed in, were shocked by what they saw, and quickly subdued the four women.

When Lady Wu heard the news, she rushed over and, seeing her beloved son covered in blood, cried out:

"Quickly summon the army doctor! Execute these four vixens immediately!"

Sun Quan struggled to raise his hand:

"Wait...wait!"

He endured the excruciating pain, propped himself up, and stared intently at the four women:

"I have treated you all well, why... do you treat me like this?"

The woman in purple sneered:

"Blue-eyed brat, you Jiangdong rat!"

"My service to you these days has been nothing but a charade."

"It's a pity we are too weak to take your life!"

Sun Quan was taken aback and said:
"Could it be... that you are Chen Deng's men?"

"Not bad!"

The woman in red raised her head and said:

“We were adopted and taught singing and dancing by General Zheng Nan since childhood. His kindness is as heavy as a mountain.”

"They had no name or surname, and were only distinguished by the color of their clothes."

Sun Quan opened his eyes wide and asked incredulously:

"Knowing that death is inevitable, why suffer this?"

"What kindness or righteousness has Chen Deng shown you?"

"How could he make a few women like you willingly die for him?"

The woman in green shouted sternly:
"The kindness of raising and nurturing is as heavy as Mount Tai!"

"Unlike your Sun family, who have received the Han's favor for generations, yet you claim to be the most powerful in the north."

"How dare you, an unfaithful and unfilial wretch, speak with us!"

Sun Quan, filled with shame and anger, roared:

"Drag him out...and execute him immediately!"

The woman in purple struggled free and raised her head, shouting:

"No need for such trouble! Although we are women, we also know the meaning of loyalty and righteousness!"

"To die for one's country is a worthy death!"

"How wonderful! How wonderful!"

Having finished speaking,
She crashed violently into the tent pillar and died instantly.

The other three women exchanged smiles, and the woman in yellow said:
"Sister, wait patiently, your younger sister is coming!"

After saying this, they all struck their heads against pillars and died.

The tent fell silent for a moment.

When the soldiers saw the four women bravely facing death, they all looked ashamed.

An old soldier couldn't help but sigh:
"Of the millions of men in Jiangdong, none are as courageous as these four women!"

Sun Quan remained silent for a long time, then suddenly said:
"...he was given a grand burial."

"With the respect due to a loyal and valiant person."

Then, the military doctor entered the tent.

After examining Sun Quan, the military doctor's expression turned grave:
"Your Majesty's life is temporarily safe, but your heart and lungs are damaged, which may shorten your lifespan."

"I fear that in the future... I fear that I will not live long."

Sun Quan smiled wryly:
"We are in such a sorry state now, and our fate tomorrow is uncertain."

"Why bother about the length of one's life?"

Lady Wu wept uncontrollably.
"My son, how could you do this!"

Sun Quan stood there blankly, then suddenly asked:
"Mother, am I truly an unfaithful and unfilial son?"

Lady Wu stroked his forehead, tears streaming down her face.
"Foolish child...foolish child..."

He then looked up to the sky and cried out, "Heavens!"

"What sins did my Sun family commit to deserve this state of affairs!"

That night, Sun Quan developed a persistent high fever.

In a daze, he seemed to see four women dancing gracefully, and then his father and brothers approaching with halberds.

He kept talking in his sleep, sometimes crying and sometimes laughing.

The next day,

Despite his illness, Sun Quan ordered a monument to be erected in front of the tombs of the four women, inscribed with "Tomb of the Four Loyal and Valiant Women".

When the generals heard this, many of them had reservations.

Sun Quan sighed:

"Though their actions are contrary to the truth, their aspirations are commendable."

"If there were more loyal and righteous men like these in Jiangdong, would things have come to this?"

After speaking, he coughed up blood incessantly, and his face turned ashen.

At this moment, a scout came to report—

The Han army has arrived at the foot of the mountain and will begin searching it soon!
The setting sun, like blood, reflected the final remnants of the Jiangdong situation.

Sun Quan gazed at the tombs of the four women and murmured to himself:
"You may travel slowly to the Yellow Springs, for I... will arrive soon."

The mountain mist was thick, and it seemed as if the four women's figures could be seen dancing gracefully again.

The glittering golden hairpin was the final, poignant tale of Jiangdong.

(End of this chapter)