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

Chapter 399 Sima Yi suffers the loss of Jieting, Zhongda (Sima Yi) wields tears as he executes the imperial son-in-law.

Autumn of the tenth year of Zhangwu.

Grand Marshal and General Li Yi convened a meeting in Luoyang to discuss matters.

Armored soldiers stood solemnly before the hall, the candlelight casting a chilling glow on the military tally.

Although Li Yi no longer participates in politics, or rather, no longer takes charge of political affairs.

But Liu Bei entrusted the army to him.

The purpose was not to burden him with military affairs, but to facilitate his administration.

After all, only by controlling the military can one control the discourse.

However, the current situation in Longyou is critical, and he is the Grand Marshal of the National Army.

Li Yi could not ignore this, and he solemnly addressed the crowd:

"We have received a report from the border that Sima Yi, the prime minister of the pseudo-Wei state, has led an army of 80,000 out of Hanzhong and is invading our Longyou region."

"Although Zhuge Liang, the governor of Yongliang, has stationed 50,000 troops in Guanzhong, the enemy is numerous and we are few. We should send troops to provide reinforcements."

The Han Dynasty only deployed 50,000 troops in the western part of Guanzhong.

There are two reasons,
One reason is that they were busy with the war to destroy Wu, and their main forces were in the south. They had only just returned.

The soldiers need rest and cannot be sent to the west immediately.

The second reason is that Longxi's unique geographical environment is not suitable for long-term, large-scale garrisoning of troops.

Because that region has exceeded its supply limit and cannot afford to support itself, it can only rely on subsidies from the central government.

In fact, the Cao Wei dynasty in history did not deploy too many troops in Guanzhong.

They would only send reinforcements after Zhuge Liang attacked.

Because this is the lowest cost.

Even the most powerful empire cannot sustain a large military force in the long run.

But the situation is different for Sichuan.

Whether it was Zhuge Liang's Northern Expeditions in history or Sima Yi's Northern Expeditions in this world, they both started from Hanzhong.

This results in their supply lines being relatively shorter.

However, for the vast Qi-Han Empire, rescuing Guanzhong was a very large undertaking.

The supply lines are also longer, so the consumption is also greater.

Besides these two points, there is actually a third reason.

Historically,
The number of troops that Cao Wei had to defend against Eastern Wu on the southern front was far greater than the number of troops it had to defend against Shu Han on the western front.

This is not just a matter of the length of the supply line.

Another very important reason is that at that time, many people preferred to go to the south rather than the west.

Because the climate in the south is relatively warm, while the west is cold and water-scarce, it is not suitable for human habitation.

I've only ever heard of people freezing to death, but I've never heard of anyone dying from heat.

At that time, the morale of the army was also an important factor affecting Cao Wei's strategic policy.

Minister of War Taishi Ci stepped forward and offered his advice:
"With the annihilation of Wu over, the Hebei army can now be mobilized."

Li Yi nodded and waved his hand:
"Twenty thousand elite troops were to be transferred from Hebei, and Zhang He was to be appointed as the Left Protector General, in charge of this force."

He then took the tiger tally and threw it on the table: "20,000 troops are to be mobilized from Henan, and Wei Yan is to be appointed as the Right Protector General."

"Ten thousand troops have been dispatched from the capital, Luoyang..."

He paused slightly at this point, his gaze sweeping over the crimson-clad generals below the steps.

"Guo Huai was promoted to General of the Champion Army and led the warriors of Luoyang to Guanzhong."

These words startled all the veterans present.

Guo Huai was a general who surrendered from the State of Wei.

How could the Prime Minister entrust the command of such an important army in the capital to a surrendered general?
As expected, as soon as the order was issued, a senior official immediately stepped forward to offer his advice:

"If a surrendered general takes command of troops, unforeseen events may occur."

Li Yi stood up, his hand on his sword, and said solemnly:

"When Emperor Guangwu employed the three brilliant generals of Liangzhou, did he abandon a good general because of his background?"

"Now, Lu Boyan is appointed as the Chief Clerk of the Western Garrison, to assist in military affairs."

Didn't you question my use of surrendered generals?

I will not only use generals who surrendered from Wei, but also generals who surrendered from Wu.

After speaking, Li Yi untied the jade pendant from his waist and distributed it to the generals:
"Commander Zhuge is a virtuous and talented man whom I personally recommended to His Majesty."

“I specially transferred him from Jiaozhou back to the central government and then assigned him to Guanzhong to oversee military affairs in Yongliang.”

"From now on, you all should act as if they were your own arms, and if any discord arises..."

A flash of sword light, and the corner of the table fell to the ground with a thud.

"Just like this case!"

"Here!"

All the generals accepted the order.

……

Inside the Chang'an Governor's Mansion, Zhuge Liang was studying a map of mountains and rivers when suddenly a messenger arrived on horseback, bringing news.

He hastily summoned his generals, his white robes fluttering in the wind, and addressed them:

"Sima Yi took the route through San Pass, and Chencang was a place that had to be fought over."

Li Yan, the governor of Liangzhou, stepped forward from his post, holding his official tablet.

“Someone recommended Wang Shuang of Didao, whose courtesy name was Ziquan.”

"This man wields a sixty-pound wind-splashing blade and rides a thousand-mile steed from Ferghana."

"The bow with two iron cores can split rocks when it is fired, and the three hammers hidden in it can hit the target every time. It is truly a brave man that is invincible."

Zhuge Liang ordered him to be summoned.

Shortly afterward, the brave warriors arrived.

His nine-foot frame was dimly lit by the candlelight, and his yellow eyes glared like a tiger.

Kongming was overjoyed, pointed to the map with his feather fan, and said:

"A new fortification was built at the Chencang Pass, and Hao Bodao led three thousand soldiers to guard it."

"I will give you five thousand elite troops to form a pincer movement with Hao Zhaocheng."

"Send aid immediately!"

Wang Shuang accepted the order and left.

Not long after Wang Shuang left, another report came that Zhang He had led the elite troops of Hebei to Chang'an first.

Knowing that Zhang He was a trusted confidant of Li Yi, Zhuge Liang rushed to meet him and immediately discussed military affairs with him.

"With General Junyi's arrival, I feel somewhat at ease."

Kongming held a feather fan and pointed to the map, saying, "On the western slope of the Qinling Mountains are the two cities of Jieting and Lieliu, which are the throat of Hanzhong."

"If Sima Zhongda obtains this knowledge, Longxi will be as easy as a bag."

As he spoke, he ran his delicate hand across the sand table.

"I wish to join forces with the general to take Jieting and cut off their supply lines."

Outside the battlefield, Zhang He was a typical office worker; on the battlefield, he was a professional general.

When he joined the army and started discussing military matters, he didn't stand on ceremony and focused on military affairs.

He carefully examined the terrain with his sword at his side, noticing in the map that a tributary of the Wei River meandered like a snake, and pondered:
"Does the governor intend to emulate Han Xin's plan to cross the Wei River? But Sima Yi is no dragon."

Kongming chuckled lightly, pointing the fan handle toward Xiegu:
"If they retreat, we will ambush them at the wooden gate."

"If they do not retreat..."

He lightly tapped Yangping Pass with his fingers, "Sever all the small paths and use fire to besiege them."

"In the autumn drought in Longxi, if there is no food for a month, all 80,000 Wei soldiers will become withered bones."

Zhang He nodded and said:
"The governor is truly a genius; this mission will surely ensure that Sima Yi never returns."

Zhuge Liang pondered for a moment and said:

"Even so, Sima Yi was by no means an ordinary person."

"The general is the vanguard and should not advance rashly. This message should be relayed to the other generals."

"Follow the western road and scout from afar."

"We may proceed only if there are no ambushes."

"If we are negligent, we will surely fall into Sima Yi's trap."

Zhang He followed the plan and led his army on the march.

……

The moonlight, as cold as iron, soaked through the camps along the Qishan Mountains.

Sima Yi was studying the terrain of Longxi on a sand table when he suddenly heard the sound of horses' hooves outside the tent.

The guards led the scouts from the new city quickly into the tent. The scouts immediately knelt on the ground, their throats still hoarse from the wind and sand.
"Reporting to the Prime Minister! Zhuge Liang has obtained reinforcements from Luoyang and is personally leading 50,000 troops out of Chang'an."

"With Zhang He as the vanguard, march straight towards Jieting!"

Sima Yi's brush suddenly snapped in two. He put his hands behind his back, frowned, and said:
"Kongming's military tactics are as swift as lightning... He is truly my match."

So he turned to his generals and asked:
"Who dares to guard Jieting?"

Before the words were finished, one person stepped forward.

Golden armor reflected in the candlelight, jade belt fastened around a wolf's waist.

Upon closer inspection, everyone recognized him as Xiahou Mao, the imperial son-in-law.

Xiahou Mao, courtesy name Zixiu, was extremely impatient and stingy.

He was adopted by Xiahou Dun as his son from a young age.

Later, Xiahou Yuan was killed by Huang Zhong, and Cao Cao felt sorry for him.

He married Princess Qinghe, who was his daughter, and was thus respected by the court.

Although he held military power, he never led troops into battle.

Xiahou Mao's face was flushed, and he looked excited.

This was the first time in his life he had personally been on the battlefield. He clasped his hands in a fist salute and said:
“My father died in Hebei, and I have never been able to avenge him.”

"Now we are launching a northern expedition to avenge the national humiliation and wipe away the family's hatred."

"I am willing to lead my own fierce generals and beg the Prime Minister to grant us troops from the south to go and defeat Zhuge Liang's army."

"To serve the country above and avenge my father below, I would die ten thousand times without regret!"

Sima Yi remained silent, his gaze sharp as he scrutinized Xiahou Mao.

Seeing this, Military Advisor Sima Fu quickly offered his advice:
“No! Prince Consort Xiahou has never fought before.”

"To entrust him with such a great responsibility is not appropriate for him."

"Moreover, Zhuge Liang is resourceful and has a deep understanding of military strategy, so we should not underestimate him."

Xiahou Mao's expression changed drastically, and he shouted:

"Could it be that the military advisor is colluding with Zhuge Liang to act as an inside agent?"

“I have studied strategy and tactics under my father since I was a child, and I am well-versed in military strategy. How dare you deceive me because I am young?”

"If I cannot capture Zhuge Liang alive, I swear I will not return to see the Prime Minister!"

Sima Fu was taken aback, his face alternating between pale and flushed, and he frowned as he said:

"My Sima family bears a blood feud; how could we possibly have an affair with Zhuge Liang?"

"The prince consort must not make false accusations."

All the generals in the tent knew that Xiahou Mao wielded immense power in the court, so they all lowered their heads and dared not speak.

Sima Yi pondered for a long time before saying:

"Although Jieting is small, it is of great importance."

"If Jieting is lost, our entire army will perish."

"Although you are well-versed in strategy, this place has no city walls or natural defenses, making it extremely difficult to defend."

Xiahou Mao raised his head and said:

“I have been well-versed in military books since childhood and am quite knowledgeable in military strategy.”

"Is it possible that Jieting alone cannot be defended?"

"...Zhuge Liang is no ordinary man, and with the famous Hebei general Zhang He as his vanguard, I fear you are no match for him."

Sima Yi continued.

"Even if it were Zhuge Liang or Zhang He, or even if Li Yi himself came, what would we have to fear! If there is any mistake, I beg you to execute my entire family!"

Xiahou Mao patted his chest and swore an oath.

Sima Yi's eyes flickered slightly:
"There is no joke in the army."

"I am willing to sign a pledge!"

Xiahou Mao readily agreed.

Sima Yi then ordered paper and pen to be brought, and Xiahou Mao immediately wrote down a military order and presented it.

Sima Yi took it and slowly said:
"I will give you 15,000 elite soldiers and assign you a general to assist you."

He then called out, "Wang Ping, listen to my command!"

Lieutenant General Wang Ping stepped forward in response.

Sima Yi instructed:

“I have always known you to be cautious throughout your life, so I have entrusted you with this important task.”

"You must carefully guard this place. Set up camp in a strategic location so that the enemy soldiers cannot sneak through."

"After setting up camp, I drew up a map of the four to eight geographical features for him to see."

"All matters should be discussed and agreed upon before proceeding; they should not be taken lightly."

"If what we hold is safe, then taking Chang'an will be the greatest achievement."

"Quit it! Quit it!"

The two men bowed and took their leave, then led their troops out.

After the army had gone far away, Sima Fu approached and asked in a low voice:

"Xiahou Mao is a pampered son of a noble family, arrogant and self-important. Why would the Prime Minister entrust him with such an important task?"

Sima Yi watched the banners disappear into the distance and said calmly:
"Xiahou Mao, as the son-in-law of the emperor, wielded immense power in the court."

"I have come to the front lines ostensibly to assist in the battle, but in reality, I am here to supervise the troops."

"I am also subject to their checks and balances."

Sima Fu suddenly realized:
"Could it be that the Prime Minister did this on purpose?"

Sima Yi's lips curled slightly:
"Whether Xiahou Mao can hold Jieting or not, it will be beneficial to us."

"If we win, we will dampen Zhuge Liang's spirit."

"If we lose..."

He paused and continued:
"However, for the sake of the overall situation, I still hope that it can hold on."

A sharp glint flashed in Sima Fu's eyes:
"If Xiahou Mao loses Jieting, although our army will suffer a setback, we can use this opportunity to eliminate the Xiahou family's influence in the court."

"Wouldn't that kill two birds with one stone?"

Sima Yi suddenly turned around, his expression grave:

"...This price is far too high!"

"If Jieting is lost, our army's lifeline will be cut off, and the lives of 80,000 soldiers will be in grave danger."

"And don't forget..."

He lowered his voice even further, "We still bear the hatred of our clan's extermination. If we fight amongst ourselves now, it will only benefit Zhuge Liang."

Sima Fu lowered his head in embarrassment:
"My second brother is far more insightful and far-sighted than I am."

Sima Yi pointed to the distance:
"Quickly dispatch spies to closely monitor the situation at Jieting."

"Then Deng Ai was ordered to lead 3,000 light cavalry to secretly follow Xiahou Mao's troops."

"If the situation becomes unfavorable, provide assistance as needed."

"If the Prime Minister doubts Xiahou Mao's abilities, why did he send troops to support him?"

Sima Fu was puzzled.

Sima Yi sighed:
"...Public and private matters must be clearly distinguished."

"Although Xiahou Mao may become a political enemy, we are now both ministers of Wei and should work together to resist foreign aggression."

"If one abandons public duty for private gain, wouldn't that be no different from being a traitor to the country?"

"Third brother, you must know that Qi is strong and Wei is weak."

“Our Wei state is far weaker than the Qi state. If we do not consider the overall situation…”

"The revenge for the extermination of our clan is truly out of reach."

Having said that, he waved his hand, ordering Sima Fu to make the arrangements immediately.

On the other side, Xiahou Mao and Wang Ping led their troops to Jieting.

The surrounding area was open and the mountains rose and fell.

Xiahou Mao rode his horse around, looked around, and laughed loudly:

"Why is the Prime Minister so suspicious? How could the Qi bandits dare to come from this remote mountain place?"

Wang Ping frowned and advised:

"Although the prince consort said that the Qi troops dared not come, the art of war lies in caution."

"We can set up camp at the main pass of these five routes and order the soldiers to cut down trees to build a fence for the long term."

Xiahou Mao pointed with his whip and said:
"Is a place to set up camp when the road is blocked?"

“Look here, there is a mountain on the side, which is not connected to any other side.”

"Moreover, the trees are very extensive, which is a natural advantage, and it is the perfect place to station troops on the mountain."

Wang Ping, with a solemn expression, offered another piece of advice:
"...Your Highness is mistaken."

"If troops are stationed along the road and city walls are built, even if there are 100,000 enemy soldiers, they will not be able to sneak through."

"If we abandon this vital road now and station our troops on the mountain..."

"If the enemy troops arrive suddenly and surround us on all sides, what strategy can we use to protect ourselves?"

Xiahou Mao laughed loudly, his voice echoing through the valley:

"You have the mind of a woman! Have you not heard the art of war say:..."

"Looking down from a high vantage point, the momentum is like splitting bamboo."

"If the enemy soldiers arrive, I will ensure they don't return with a single piece of armor!"

Wang Ping patiently explained:

"This humble general has followed the Prime Minister in many battles, and wherever we went, the Prime Minister has given us his best guidance."

"Looking at this mountain now, it is a dead end."

"If the enemy soldiers cut off our water supply, our soldiers will fall into chaos without a fight."

Xiahou Mao's face showed disdain:
"Don't speak nonsense!"

As Sun Tzu said, "Place yourself in a desperate situation, and you will survive."

"If the enemy cuts off our water supply, will our soldiers not fight to the death?"

"One can be worth a hundred."

“I have long studied military strategy, and my father often said that my military tactics far surpassed his. Why are you trying to stop me!”

As the two were arguing, they suddenly saw groups of mountain residents rushing towards them.

They panicked and reported that the Han army had arrived.

Seeing the urgency of the situation, Wang Ping volunteered again:

"If you insist on setting up camp on the mountain, please divide your troops with me."

“From a small village in Shanxi, it forms a pincer movement.”

"If the Qi army arrives, we can respond accordingly."

Xiahou Mao snorted coldly:
"Since you disobey my orders, I will give you five thousand soldiers to set up camp on your own."

"Once I defeat the enemy, I will not be able to claim credit before the Prime Minister!"

After speaking, he ignored Wang Ping and ordered his soldiers to build a fortified camp on the mountain.

Wang Ping had no choice but to lead 5,000 soldiers ten miles away from the mountain and set up camp. He drew up a geographical map overnight and sent his trusted confidant to the Qishan camp to report to Sima Yi.

Meanwhile, Xiahou Mao was supervising the construction of the fortified camp on the mountain when his deputy, Zhang Tao, offered his advice:
"...Your Highness, although the mountain is high and steep, the water source is far away."

"If the Qi army cuts off the waterway, I fear something unforeseen may happen."

"It would be better to divide our forces to guard the key passes at the foot of the mountain; that would be the best strategy."

Before he could finish speaking, Xiahou Mao snapped:

"Do you also wish to emulate Wang Ping's cowardice in battle?"

"I am well-versed in military strategy and deeply understand the principle of 'being in a superior position and having unstoppable momentum'."

"If Zhuge Liang were here, we could defeat them in one fell swoop. Why do you all need to say more!"

Zhang Tao dared not offer any further advice and withdrew meekly.

Xiahou Mao surveyed the mountain terrain with self-satisfaction and said to those around him:
“My father died in battle in Hebei years ago, and today I will avenge him on this mountain.”

"Let the Qi traitors know the might of the Xiahou family!"

Once the stockade was completed, Xiahou Mao ordered his soldiers to raise many flags to create a false impression of strength.

Then they awaited Zhuge Liang's arrival, hoping to wipe away the shame of the Xiahou family.

At that time, Zhuge Liang was in the main camp when he summoned Li Yan to his tent and instructed him:
"You may lead three thousand elite troops to scout the way at Jieting."

"If there are soldiers guarding Jieting, you should hold back and report back to me first."

Li Yan accepted the order and left. He returned to camp a day later to report:
"General, there are indeed Wei soldiers guarding Jieting."

"The banners are neatly arranged, and the camps stretch out in a continuous line."

Zhuge Liang gently waved his feather fan, his expression solemn:

"Sima Yi also knew that Jieting was a strategic location, so he sent a large number of troops to guard it."

"It seems I will have to challenge him to a duel at Jieting."

He then ordered all battalions to prepare for battle and launch a strong attack on the strategically important Jieting.

Seeing that Zhuge Liang was already prepared to compete with Sima Yi at Jieting.

Li Yan laughed and said:
"Why has the governor lost his will? I believe Jieting will be easy to take."

Zhuge Liang was surprised to hear this and looked at Li Yan:
"Jieting is strategically located, easy to defend and difficult to attack."

How dare you utter such arrogant words?

Li Yan stepped forward and reported in detail:
Yan personally observed that the Wei army had no fortifications in the road, and the troops were all stationed on the mountain.

"Although it is situated on a high vantage point, it is isolated atop a mountain, with a distant water source."

"If their water supply is cut off, they will fall into chaos without a fight."

Zhuge Liang was overjoyed upon hearing this, and lightly clapped his palm with his feather fan:
"Wonderful! I overestimated Sima Yi, and he actually committed this major taboo in military strategy."

He then summoned his generals to discuss matters.

Upon hearing the news, Zhang He readily volunteered for the battle:
"This is an opportunity we must not miss! I am willing to be the vanguard and defeat the enemy on the mountain first!"

Zhuge Liang secretly praised Zhang He's ability to seize opportunities in battle and immediately approved: "General, you are brave and capable of this task."

"However, we must be cautious and first ascertain the truth."

That night, the sky was clear and the moon was bright.

The Han army marched all the way down the mountain.

Zhang He led his elite cavalry on a patrol around the area and indeed found that the Wei army was stationed on the mountain.

Although the stockade was fortified, it was isolated atop the mountain, making one secretly laugh at the Wei general's ignorance.

Upon returning to camp after the inspection, he reported to Zhuge Liang:

"The Wei general indeed stationed his troops on the mountain, thus trapping himself in a desperate situation."

"However, its defenses are tight, so it is not advisable to attack hastily."

Zhuge Liang nodded and said to his generals:

"They occupy high ground; a direct assault would inevitably result in heavy losses."

"It is better to surround them without attacking, and wait for them to collapse on their own."

He then sent someone to inquire about the name of the garrison commander.

Shortly after, the scout reported back:

"The one guarding Jieting is Xiahou Mao, the son-in-law of the Wei Kingdom."

Zhuge Liang smiled:
"This person is nothing but a mediocre wild duck with an empty reputation!"

"Wouldn't Sima Yi's use of such a person lead to disaster?"

He then asked, "Are there other troops stationed to the left and right of Jieting?"

The scout replied:

"Ten miles from the mountain, Wang Ping led five thousand troops to set up camp."

Zhuge Liang lightly pointed his feather fan at the map:
"Wang Ping was a veteran general, knowledgeable in military affairs and skilled in battle."

"If our army attacks the mountain, they will surely come to its rescue."

The order was then issued:
Pang De led an army to ambush at a key point, blocking Wang Ping's path.

"Ma Dai and Zhang He each led their troops to surround the mountain, first cutting off its water supply route."

"Wait until the Wei troops are in disarray, then strike them while they are in disarray."

The schedule was finalized that night.

The next day at dawn, the three armies moved out quietly.

Pang De first led his troops to take a detour.

Zhang He and Ma Dai each led large armies, surrounding them across the mountains and plains.

Xiahou Mao saw from the mountain that the Han soldiers' banners were neatly arranged and they had surrounded the area completely.

Instead of panicking, he laughed loudly and said to those around him:
"If they have the will, they will not come to besiege the mountain!"

He then issued an order to the generals:
"As soon as the red flags fluttered atop the mountain, they attacked from all sides, ensuring that the Qi army would never return!"

Zhang He reined in his horse at the foot of the mountain, swaggering and loudly challenging:

"Xiahou Consort! As the descendant of a famous general, how dare you cower in the mountains?"

"Do you dare to descend the mountain and fight me?"

The Wei soldiers had long heard of Zhang He's formidable reputation, and upon witnessing his bravery, they were all terrified and none dared to challenge him.

Deputy General Zhang Tao advised:

"General, the Qi army has cut off our water supply, and our soldiers are thirsty."

"We should take advantage of the fact that morale is not yet low and break through to join General Wang Ping."

Xiahou Mao was furious and shouted:

"Why are you so cowardly! I have already laid a net that can trap you from heaven and earth."

"When the Qi army attacks the mountain, the red flag will serve as the signal."

"Attack from all sides, and we will surely achieve total victory!"

About an hour passed.

Xiahou Mao stood atop the mountain, seeing the Han army surrounding him but not attacking, and felt anxious.

He then waved the red flag, intending to order his soldiers to charge forward.

However, the soldiers looked at each other in bewilderment, and none of them dared to move.

All of this was due to their fear of Zhang He's formidable reputation, and also because they saw the well-organized formation of the Han army.

Banners blotted out the sun, and swords and spears formed a forest.

Xiahou Mao was furious upon seeing this and shouted angrily:

"We've raised an army for a thousand days, only to use it for one! How dare you disobey orders?"

He immediately drew his sword and killed the two generals.

Blood splattered on the commander's flag, and the soldiers were terrified.

Deputy General Zhang Tao urgently advised:

"General, please calm your anger! It's not that the soldiers are afraid to fight, it's just that..."

Before he could finish speaking, Xiahou Mao glared and shouted:
"Anyone who dares to speak of retreat will be executed!"

The troops had no choice but to reluctantly regroup and descend the mountain in a clamor.

In the Han army formation, Zhang He saw the Wei soldiers charging down and laughed:
"The desperate enemy is coming!"

So, the command flag was waved.

The Han army remained motionless, their bows and crossbows fully prepared.

The Wei soldiers charged halfway up the mountain, but seeing the formidable formation of the Han army, they hesitated and retreated.

Xiahou Mao saw this clearly from the mountaintop and was so angry he almost vomited blood.

However, seeing that things were not going well, they had no choice but to change the order:

"Hold the gates firmly and await outside support!"

He secretly hoped that Wang Ping would lead troops to his rescue.

Meanwhile, Wang Ping set up camp ten miles away and saw that beacon fires were raging all over Jieting Mountain.

Knowing that Xiahou Mao was in dire straits, they hurriedly led their troops to his rescue.

Halfway there, they suddenly saw an army blocking their way, and the general in charge was none other than Pang De.

Pound stood with his sword drawn, shouting:
"Wang Ping, stop!"

"Commander Zhuge has given the order that Jieting is under siege."

"Retreat immediately, or you will save your life!"

Wang Ping angrily said:

"I am a soldier, how can I stand by and watch my comrade die without helping him!"

Having said that, he thrust his spear straight at Pound.

The two generals fought on the same spot, their swords and spears clashing, sparks flying everywhere.

After about twenty rounds of fighting, Wang Ping's strength began to wane.

Seeing that Han reinforcements were gradually arriving, he had no choice but to feign an attack and lead his troops to retreat.

The Wei army on the mountain was trapped from Chenshi (7-9 AM) to Xushi (7-9 PM), exposed to the scorching sun, without a drop of water.

The soldiers were parched and thirsty.

Suddenly, soldiers discovered a small stream on the mountainside and rushed to drink from it.

Unexpectedly, shortly after drinking the water, they all experienced abdominal pain and vomiting, realizing that the water source had been contaminated.

It turned out that Zhang He, seeing that the siege had dragged on for so long without success, offered a plan to Zhuge Liang:
"We can throw rotten grass into the water source to cause the Wei army to fall into disarray."

Zhuge Liang frowned and said:

"This method is contrary to the laws of nature and may harm the innocent."

Zhang He said with a sigh:
"For the sake of the overall situation, defeating the enemy should be the priority."

"If this drags on, Sima Yi's reinforcements will arrive, and the situation will be hopeless!"

Zhuge Liang pondered for a long time, then sighed:

"Although it is not the way of the benevolent, one should act expediently in times of emergency."

He then ordered his soldiers to collect decaying grass and throw it into the upstream stream.

The Wei soldiers were poisoned by the water, vomiting and having diarrhea, causing great chaos in the army.

Even worse, some people had no choice but to use horse urine to quench their thirst.

The cries of agony echoed throughout the mountains and fields.

Deputy General Zhang Tao reluctantly reported:
"Your Highness, an epidemic is spreading in the army."

"Many soldiers have deserted; Your Highness, please make a decision quickly!"

Xiahou Mao knew he had made a grave mistake, but he refused to admit it out of pride.

He had no choice but to muster his spirits and patrol the camp to comfort the troops.
"Soldiers! Reinforcements will arrive soon. As long as we hold on, there is hope."

Before he could finish speaking, an old soldier suddenly knelt down and wept:

"Your Highness! We have been without water for three days, and our soldiers are falling ill one after another."

"If we remain trapped, we will only face certain death!"

Xiahou Mao's expression changed drastically, but seeing that the soldiers around him all looked pale and resentful, he had no choice but to suppress his anger.

"I, the Prince Consort, have already sent someone to request assistance, and they will arrive soon."

"At that time, we will be able to defeat the Qi army by attacking from both inside and outside!"

at the same time,

Zhuge Liang stood on a high hill, gazing at the terrain of Jieting Mountain.

Seeing that the Wei army was still fighting despite being trapped, he then issued an order:
"We can set fires along the mountains to disrupt their morale."

Upon receiving the order, the Han army immediately set fire to all four sides.

It was autumn, and the vegetation was dry.

Fueled by the wind, the fire instantly roared into the sky, thick smoke obscuring the sun.

The Wei soldiers on the mountain were already starving and thirsty, and the sudden appearance of fire only exacerbated the chaos.

The soldiers ran about shouting and trampling each other.

Upon hearing the report in his tent, Xiahou Mao stamped his feet and sighed deeply:
"Heaven has forsaken me!"

Vice General Zhang Tao rushed in:

"General, the fire has spread to the central army. Please make a decision quickly!"

Xiahou Mao's face turned deathly pale, and after a long silence he finally spoke:

"Gather the remaining troops and break out through the Shanxi trails!"

Zhang Tao advised:

"Shanxi is rugged and there may be an ambush."

Xiahou Mao frowned and sighed:

"Even if there are ambushes, it's better than being engulfed in flames!"

So they gathered their remaining troops, numbering over a thousand, and charged into Shanxi amidst smoke and fire.

When the Han army saw the Wei troops breaking through the encirclement, they hurriedly reported to Zhuge Liang.

All the generals urged them to pursue, but Zhuge Liang simply waved his feather fan lightly.
"Xiahou Mao is a mediocre talent; keeping him could become a future threat to the State of Wei."

"Letting them escape is to my advantage."

He then issued the order: "Open up the western route and let them escape."

Behind them, Pang De led 5,000 elite troops, feigning pursuit.

After traveling more than thirty li, they suddenly saw drums and horns sounding in front of them, and a troop of soldiers charged out.

Let Xiahou Mao go, and go straight for Pang De.

The general shouted loudly:

"With Deng Ai here, who dares to fight me!"

Pang De, seeing Deng Ai's disciplined army, secretly praised him:

"A true good general!"

The two armies clashed and fought fiercely in one place.

Pang De followed Zhuge Liang's instructions, feigned a few exchanges, and then withdrew his troops.

Upon seeing this, Deng Ai led his troops in pursuit, heading straight for Jieting.

As they approached Jieting, Deng Ai suddenly sensed something amiss and hastily ordered the army to halt.

Before he could finish speaking, a horn sounded, and the ambushers on both sides rushed out.

Zhang He on the left, Ma Dai on the right, cutting off their retreat.

Pang De also turned back and attacked, surrounding Deng Ai from three directions and trapping him in the center.

Deng Ai remained calm in the face of danger and shouted:
"Soldiers, follow me and break through!"

After saying this, he led his troops in a charge, attacking from the left and right.

However, the Han army's encirclement was as solid as an iron barrel, and although the Wei soldiers fought desperately, they ultimately could not break through.

By dusk, the Wei army had suffered heavy losses.

Just when things were at their most critical, an army suddenly charged in from the northeast, and the leading general shouted:

"General Deng, do not worry, Wang Ping is here!"

It turned out that after Wang Ping was defeated by Pang De, he rallied his remaining troops and rushed to the rescue upon hearing of the turmoil at Jieting.

Deng Ai was overjoyed:

"God help me too!"

The two generals joined forces and charged forward with great effort.

Seeing that the Wei army was fighting like cornered beasts, Zhang He feared that their casualties would be too heavy, so he slightly loosened the encirclement.

Taking advantage of the situation, Deng Ai and Wang Ping broke through the encirclement and retreated towards Lieliucheng.

Halfway there, Deng Ai suddenly said:

"Liucheng is probably doomed."

Wang Ping asked in surprise why.

Deng Ai sighed:

"Zhuge Liang's military strategy is divine. Since he has set up an ambush against us, he must have already divided his troops to take the city."

Sure enough, as they approached Lie Liu City, they could see from afar that the city walls had been changed to Han banners.

Li Yan led his troops out of the city and shouted:

"The city has fallen, why don't you surrender now!"

Deng Ai and Wang Ping dared not linger in battle and led their remaining troops to circle around the city.

Li Yan pursued them for more than twenty li before withdrawing his troops and returning to the city.

As night fell, Deng Ai counted his remaining troops; there were fewer than a thousand.

Then he looked up to the sky and sighed:
"With the loss of Jieting, the opportunity for war in Longyou has been lost!"

Wang Ping advised:

"General, there is no need to worry. Prime Minister Sima's army will arrive soon."

Deng Ai shook his head and sighed:

"With Zhuge Liang's acquisition of Jieting, he is like a tiger with wings. I fear that the counties of Longyou will be difficult to protect."

He then wrote a letter and sent a messenger to Sima Yi.

Deng Ai and Wang Ping led their remaining troops back to Qishan stronghold in a sorry state.

The village was filled with solemn flags and a heavy atmosphere.

Sima Yi first summoned Wang Ping into his tent.

Wang Ping prostrated himself to plead guilty. Sima Yi, his face grim, demanded:

"I ordered you to guard Jieting together, why didn't you advise against it, leading to the disaster?"

Wang Ping kowtowed and reported:
"Someone repeatedly advised that we should build an earthen city wall in the middle of the road and set up camp to guard it."

"However, the prince consort was furious and refused to comply, accusing me of being a coward."

"I had no choice but to lead five thousand troops ten miles away from the mountain and set up camp."

"When the enemy troops suddenly arrived, they surrounded the mountain on all sides. I led my troops to charge more than ten times, but we could not get in."

"The next day, the mountain collapsed and countless people surrendered."

"I am alone and cannot stand firm, so I seek help from General Deng."

"They were trapped in the valley halfway through, but fought their way out."

"By the time they returned to the camp, it had already been occupied by the Han soldiers."

"When he was surrendering to Lie Liucheng, he encountered Li Yan on the road and was also defeated by him."

"It is not that I did not offer advice."

"If the Prime Minister does not believe me, he may ask the generals and officers of each department."

Sima Yi carefully observed Wang Ping's expression and summoned several defeated generals for questioning, all of whom confirmed that what Wang Ping said was true.

Just as he was pondering this, news came that Xiahou Mao had arrived.

Xiahou Mao entered the tent with his head held high; though a defeated general, he still carried an air of arrogance.

Upon seeing this, Sima Yi slammed his fist on the table and angrily rebuked:

“You have been well-versed in military strategy since childhood and are familiar with tactics.”

“I have repeatedly warned you that Jieting is the foundation of our nation.”

"You are entrusted with this heavy responsibility on behalf of your entire family."

"If only we had listened to Wang Ping earlier, this disaster would not have happened."

"The defeat, loss of troops, loss of territory, and fall of cities are all your fault!"

Xiahou Mao, undeterred, argued forcefully:
"...Victory and defeat are common occurrences in war."

"Although we have suffered a minor setback today, we will surely be able to avenge ourselves in the future."

Why is the Prime Minister making such a fuss over nothing?

Sima Yi interrupted him, saying sternly:

"Military law is as imposing as a mountain! If military discipline is not upheld, how can we command respect?"

"You have broken the law, so don't blame me."

"After your death, I will provide your family with a monthly stipend, so you need not worry about them."

Xiahou Mao's expression changed upon hearing this, and he shouted:

"I am the imperial son-in-law of the current emperor, a relative by marriage with the king!"

"How dare you kill me?"

Sima Yi sneered:
"In the military, there are no distinctions of rank, only military law!"

"Since you have signed a military pledge, how can I not execute you?"

After saying this, he immediately ordered his men and women:

"Take him out and behead him!"

The samurai stepped forward in response.

Xiahou Mao struggled and cried out:
"Sima Yi! If you dare to kill me, you will surely die a horrible death when you return to court!"

"Do you know who I am? I am the Prince Consort! The Prince Consort!"

However, the warriors were like tigers and wolves, and dragged him out of the tent.

In just a moment, his head was offered up, still dripping with blood.

Upon seeing this, all the generals in the tent held their breath and lowered their heads.

Sima Yi carefully observed the expressions of his generals and noticed that many of them looked gloating.

He knew these people were waiting to see how he would explain himself to Cao Rui.

Suddenly,
Sima Yi embraced the table and wept bitterly, his cries echoing throughout the camp.

The generals were taken aback and asked one after another:
Why is the Prime Minister so sorrowful?

"Although Xiahou Mao is the son-in-law of the emperor, he has still violated military orders first."

"It is perfectly reasonable for the Prime Minister to kill him; what is there to grieve over?"

Sima Yi wiped away his tears and said:

“I am not mourning Xiahou Mao.”

"The loss of Jieting is entirely my fault!"

"My poor judgment in choosing personnel led to the loss of soldiers and generals, which implicated the entire army."

"What is even more painful is that when General Xiahou was alive, we had a deep friendship."

"How can I live with myself if I kill his son?"

After speaking, he broke down in tears.

The generals were all moved and offered their words of comfort:
"...The Prime Minister has upheld the law impartially; what crime has he committed?"

"Xiahou Mao brought this disaster upon himself; it is not the Prime Minister's fault!"

Sima Fu, who was standing nearby, also offered his advice:
"Second brother, there's no need to blame yourself too much."

"Now we must regroup our troops and fight again to avenge this humiliation."

Sima Yi slowly stopped crying and said solemnly:
“Since you all say so, I shall atone for my sins by performing meritorious service.”

"We must immediately muster our troops and vow to fight Zhuge Liang to the death!"

He then ordered the three armies to wear mourning clothes and to mourn the soldiers who died in the Battle of Jieting.

He secretly summoned Sima Fu to a private room and whispered:

"Quickly submit a memorial detailing the reasons for the loss of Jieting and Xiahou Mao's crimes."

"Sent to Chengdu by express courier, 600 li away."

“I also prepared a generous gift for Princess Qinghe, saying that I had no choice but to enforce the law, and that my heart was truly pained.”

Sima Fu understood immediately:
"Second brother is brilliant."

"This way, military law is upheld and the royal family is secured."

"I have long heard that Princess Qinghe and Xiahou Mao are already estranged and their relationship is not harmonious."

"If my second brother kills him now, the princess may not blame him."

And so, they left in haste.

Sima Yi sat alone in his tent, deep in thought as he stroked the table.

Although beheading Xiahou Mao was dangerous, it would establish his authority in the army and eliminate his political enemies.

However, the battle with Zhuge Liang had only just begun.

The autumn wind outside the window is bleak, and one can almost hear the sounds of clashing swords and galloping horses.

……

(End of this chapter)