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

Chapter 401 Lu Boyan Burns the Rattan Armor Army, Sima Yi Suffers a Crushing Defeat at Chencang Pass (Bonus Chapter of 3,000 Words)

However, after Sima Yi's defeat at Jieting, although he suffered heavy losses, he took the opportunity to eliminate his political rival, Xiahou Mao.

His prestige in the military actually increased.

This is simply because there are even fewer people in the army who can rival Sima Yi for the right to speak.

On this day, during a meeting in the tent, Sima Yi addressed his generals:

Although Zhuge Liang captured Jieting, he divided his troops to guard it, and his main force was dispersed.

"I intend to lead a large army to feign an attack on Chencang, thereby diverting the main force of the Qi army."

"Another force was dispatched to secretly cross the Wei River and launch a surprise attack on Mei County, cutting off its supply lines."

What are your thoughts, gentlemen?

Before he finished speaking, a general stepped forward from under the tent, his voice booming like a bell:
"I am willing to lead my troops across the Wei River to capture Mei County!"

Upon closer inspection, everyone recognized him as Wutugu, the ruler of the Wugo Kingdom.

His face was ferocious, covered in scales and armor, like a malevolent god.

Sima Yi was overjoyed:
"Your Majesty is valiant and perfectly suited for this task!"

He then ordered him to lead his three thousand rattan armor soldiers and three thousand barbarian soldiers out to fight.

Before leaving, he didn't forget to give them some instructions:
"After crossing the river, quickly take Mei County; do not linger in battle."

Wutugu led his army to the banks of the Wei River, only to find the river flowing swiftly.

The barbarian soldiers disarmed themselves and crossed the river; those who were exhausted even sat on their armor and floated across the water.

The Han Chinese patrol on the opposite bank spotted them and immediately reported to the garrison commander.

Han general Zhao Ping led over a thousand men out of the camp to meet the enemy.

Seeing that the barbarian soldiers looked like ghosts and monsters, he was horrified.

He ordered the arrows to be fired, but they struck the rattan armor and fell to the ground.

Even with swords and spears, it is difficult to penetrate.

The barbarian soldiers brandished sharp swords and steel forks, their momentum unstoppable.

The Han army suffered a major defeat and retreated to their main camp.

Zhao Ping urgently went to see Zhuge Liang and told him about the strange events that had occurred on the Wei River.

Upon hearing the report, Zhuge Liang frowned and asked those around him:
"Whose army is this, that it is impervious to swords and spears?"

Li Yan stepped forward and replied:

"Reporting to the Governor, when I was in the South, I heard of a country called Wuge in the deep south."

"Their ruler, Wutugu, did not eat grains, but instead ate live snakes and ferocious beasts."

"Its body is covered in scales, making it difficult to be harmed by swords and arrows."

"His subordinates were called the Rattan Armor Army, and their armor was made of green vines from mountain streams."

"After being soaked in oil more than ten times, it is light and tough, does not sink in water, and is difficult to penetrate by swords and knives."

All the generals in the tent showed surprise.

Zhuge Liang lightly waved his feather fan and suddenly asked:

"When General Ma Chao was stationed in Guanzhong, wasn't he defeated by this army?"

The generals remained silent.

Ma Dai stepped forward and said:
"As the governor said."

“My brother was indeed defeated by the rattan armor army at first. This army is extremely fierce and cannot be defeated by ordinary methods.”

Zhuge Liang gently waved his feather fan, nodded, and smiled:

"In that case, I wish to personally go and meet this foreign army to see its strengths and weaknesses."

Before he finished speaking, Lu Xun, the Chief Clerk of the Western Garrison, hurriedly stepped forward to remonstrate:

"Commander-in-Chief, you mustn't! As the commander of an army, how can you risk your life so lightly?"

"Looking at Wutugu's lone army sneaking across the border, his intention must be to seize Mei County and cut off our supply lines."

"I have a plan: we can send a detachment to block their path."

"The main force remains entrenched in Chencang, confronting Sima Yi."

"When spring arrives next year, the Wei army will run out of food and supplies and will naturally retreat."

As mentioned before, the Han army's strategy differed from that of the Wei army.

The Wei army marched directly from Hanzhong, and their supply lines were very short, so even the attacking side did not suffer as many losses.

Meanwhile, the Han army stationed troops in Guanzhong, resulting in a very long supply line.

Therefore, heavy troops are not stationed on the frontier; in case of emergency, troops are only dispatched temporarily.

This was also to prevent border generals from amassing power and becoming too influential.

In this way, for the Han army,

Counter-attacking is definitely more cost-effective than proactive offense.

Of course, in ancient warfare, the defending side always had the advantage over the attacking side.

Both Zhuge Liang and Lu Xun had different attitudes towards the Wei army's invasion.

They all advocated using defense to reduce the casualty ratio of the Han army, thereby depleting the Wei state's food supplies.

Because the roads to Shu were difficult to traverse, provisions could not be supplied in the long term.

This also aligns with the concept of "avoiding the strong and attacking the weak" in Sun Tzu's Art of War.

Clearly, food supplies were the Wei army's Achilles' heel.

If the Han army capitalizes on this point, it will be easy to defeat the Wei army.

Zhuge Liang nodded upon hearing this, his eyes showing approval:
"...Boyan's strategy is excellent."

Zhuge Liang was only two years older than Lu Xun, and the two had not known each other for long.

But they were kindred spirits and both understood military strategy.

So they get along quite well in private.

"However, the rattan armor soldiers are fierce, and ordinary generals would probably find it difficult to resist them."

Zhuge Liang changed the subject and asked the people under his command:

"Who dares to lead troops to defeat the rattan armor army?"

Wei Yan stepped forward in response:

"I am willing to go! I will surely slay Wutugu and present his head to your command!"

Ma Dai also volunteered for the challenge:
“I previously served with my elder brother in guarding Guanzhong and fought against the barbarian soldiers, so I am familiar with their habits.”

"I am willing to lend Wenchang a helping hand!"

Pound said with emotion:
"I am also willing to go; please grant me permission to accompany you, Commander!"

Zhuge Liang observed the generals and shook his head slightly:
"You are all men capable of fighting ten thousand men, and you are exceptionally brave and skilled in martial arts."

"However, defeating the rattan armor army requires not only courage and strength, but also wisdom and strategy."

As he spoke, he turned his gaze to Lu Xun:

Now that Boyan has offered this strategy, are you willing to personally go and defeat the enemy?

Lu Xun straightened his clothes and hat, bowed, and said:
"I am deeply grateful for the kindness and patronage of Prime Minister Li and His Majesty, and I always think of repaying that kindness."

"It is a great honor to be able to serve the country today."

"I am willing to lead troops to defeat the barbarian army!"

Zhuge Liang was overjoyed and immediately assigned 5,000 elite troops to Lu Xun.

He appointed Ma Dai and Pang De as his deputies.

He further instructed, "The rattan armor is tough and difficult to penetrate with swords and arrows."

"Boyan must be outwitted, not outmatched by force."

Lu Xun bowed in gratitude:
"I will heed the Commander's instructions. I already have a plan to defeat the enemy."

Seeing this, Zhuge Liang appointed Ma Dai and Pang De.

They did not give him important responsibilities, convinced that Zhuge Liang was doing it on purpose to belittle them.

He then looked sullen.

Zhuge Liang, with his keen mind, noticed it and patted his back, saying:
"...Wen Chang, do not worry."

"Chencang is a strategically vital location. Sima Yi has personally led his army to attack it, and we need a fierce general like you to help us defend the city."

"In the decisive battle against the Wei army in the future, we will still need you to charge into battle."

Zhuge Liang's decision to heavily rely on Ma Dai, Pang De, and Lu Xun was also based on political considerations.

With the Jiangnan region newly pacified, Li Yi promoted prominent families, led by Lu Xun, precisely to appease the people of Jiangnan.

Now that he has recommended him to come to the front line in Guanzhong, how could Zhuge Liang not give him an important position?
Ma Dai and Pang De were former subordinates of Ma Chao, the former governor of Yongliang.

Zhuge Liang needed to adopt a lenient attitude towards these veteran officials so that they would do their best to serve him.

As for Wei Yan

Although Zhuge Liang did not spend much time with him, he found that the man was not very bright.

He is somewhat impulsive and often argues with his colleagues.

How could Zhuge Liang dare to send him out alone?
I would only feel at ease if I left him alone by my side and kept a close watch on him.

After hearing Zhuge Liang's explanation, Wei Yan was relieved and clasped his hands in a fist salute, saying:
"Yan Yuan is willing to follow the Commander to defend the city and will ensure that Sima Yi does not cross the line!"

Lu Xun received Zhuge Liang's order and led 5,000 elite troops on a journey that took him day and night to reach the north bank of the Wei River.

Looking out from a high vantage point, one can see barbarian camps stretching as far as the eye can see, their rattan armor gleaming in the sunlight.

Lu Xun said to his generals:
"The barbarian soldiers are brave, but they lack strategy."

"I want to make them arrogant and lure them in slowly, so that I can defeat them."

He then summoned Ma Dai and instructed him:

"General, you may lead a thousand soldiers to challenge them."

"Defeat is permitted, but victory is not. After defeat, retreat to the camp that has planted a white flag."

He then summoned Pound to his side and instructed him:

"The general lay in ambush in the forest, setting up many flags as a diversionary tactic."

Ma Dai accepted the order and left.

Wutugu was discussing military matters with his subordinates when he addressed the captured leaders:

"Prime Minister Sima often said that Zhuge Liang used many clever schemes."

"Wherever they went, they laid an ambush."

"In future battles, when you see a valley with dense forests, you must not advance lightly."

The first prisoner-of-war master replied:

"...Your Majesty is wise."

"Since we entered the Central Plains, we have known that the Chinese are often cunning and deceitful."

"We are willing to obey Your Majesty's command. We will fight in the front, and Your Majesty will command from behind."

In the midst of the discussion, a scout suddenly arrived with news:
"The Han soldiers set up camp on the north bank of the Wei River."

Wutugu immediately sent two captured captains to lead two thousand rattan armor soldiers across the river to challenge them.

Following the plan, Ma Dai went out to meet them, but after only a few exchanges, he feigned defeat and fled.

Fearing an ambush, the barbarian soldiers dared not pursue them further and withdrew to their camp.

Upon hearing the report, Wutugu nodded and said:

“It’s never wrong to be cautious.”

The next day, Ma Dai set up a camp ten miles away.

The barbarian soldiers crossed the river again to fight, but Ma Dai fought briefly and then fled. The barbarian soldiers pursued him for more than ten miles.

Seeing that there was nothing to do, they occupied the Han village and settled there.

The second prisoner, Wutugu, reports the good news:

"The Han army has suffered repeated defeats and has lost its courage!"

Because the southern barbarians did not understand the "political system" of the Central Plains.

Therefore, only the high-ranking officers of the Wei army referred to the Han army as the Qi army.

The barbarian soldiers referred to all Chinese people as Han people.

Soldiers from China were naturally referred to as Han soldiers.

Wutugu went to investigate and found that the Han soldiers were abandoning their armor and dragging their weapons as they fled, with baggage and supplies along the way.

However, Wutugu remembered Sima Yi's instructions and remained cautious, issuing the following order:

“Don’t enter the woods, and be cautious when encountering valleys.”

In the following days, Ma Dai suffered seven consecutive defeats and abandoned five camps.

The barbarian troops advanced steadily, and were already more than a hundred miles away from the Wei River.

On this day, Ma Dai retreated to the foot of a valley.

Wutugu reined in his horse and looked around. He saw that the valley was full of lush trees and suspected that there was an ambush.

Just as they were hesitating, they suddenly saw banners fluttering in the woods, vaguely suggesting an ambush.

Wutugu ordered the scholars of Shu to observe him. The scholars of Shu gazed at him from afar for a moment, then returned to report:
“There were indeed banners in the woods, but no one was in sight.”

Wutugu laughed loudly and said:
"This must be a feint by Lu Xun! The Han army has exhausted all its plans!"

He then addressed the generals:
"Our army has won great victories for several days, capturing strongholds and beheading generals, and the Han soldiers are terrified."

"Now we should press our advantage and defeat the enemy in one fell swoop!"

The first prisoner advised:

"Your Majesty, Prime Minister Sima has said..."

Wutugu interrupted:
"Prime Minister Sima is far away in Chencang, how could he know the true situation here?"

"I see that the Han army has been routed; now is the time to make our contribution!"

He then personally led a large army in pursuit.

Ma Dai led the remaining troops and retreated slowly to the front of Xiegu Valley.

The valley entrance was narrow and the mountain terrain was steep.

Looking back, barbarian soldiers were coming all over the mountains and plains.

The first general rode a giant elephant.

He wore a hat with the sun and moon on it and wolf whiskers, and was adorned with gold and pearl tassels.

The scales on his flanks gleamed eerily in the sunlight; it was none other than Wutugu, the king of the Wugo Kingdom.

Wutugu saw the Han army and laughed loudly:
"Why don't the Han generals surrender sooner!"

The sound was like a booming bell, echoing through the valley.

Following the plan, Ma Dai spurred his horse and charged into battle:

"How dare these barbarians invade our territory!"

After less than three exchanges, he turned his horse and fled.

Wutugu urged the elephant to pursue, but the deputy general advised against it, saying:
"Your Majesty, beware of ambushes!"

Wutugu looked around and laughed:

"Can't you see that this mountain is bare and treeless? How could you possibly set up an ambush?"

They then pursued and killed him with peace of mind.

Once all the barbarian soldiers had entered the valley, Lu Xun, who had a clear view from the mountaintop, waved his command flag:
"Feng Gu!"

Ma Dai led his army into Snake Valley and retreated towards the white flag as planned.

The barbarian soldiers pursued them into the valley, where they suddenly saw dozens of black oil tankers blocking their way.

The scout reported:

“These were Han army supply wagons; they abandoned them in a panic and fled.”

Wutugu was overjoyed:

"Heaven is on our side! Advance quickly!"

The barbarian soldiers pushed the carts in a frenzy, and as they approached the valley entrance, a sudden, deafening roar was heard.

Soon after, a torrential downpour of logs and rocks began, blocking the valley entrance in an instant.

The barbarian soldiers were greatly alarmed, and their formation gradually fell into disarray.

Wutugu realized he had fallen into a trap and hastily ordered a retreat.

Suddenly, a vehicle ahead burst into flames, and the fire instantly blocked the road.

At this moment, the rear guard exclaimed in surprise that the black oil tankers were full of sulfur and other flammable materials.

They all fired at once, their voices echoing through the valley.

Upon seeing the fire ablaze on the hilltop, Lu Xun immediately ordered:

"Fire arrows!"

Suddenly, rockets were launched from all over the valley, and flames danced wildly.

Although the rattan armor is difficult to penetrate with swords and arrows, it is most vulnerable to fire.

Once ignited, it spreads throughout the body in an instant.

The barbarian soldiers were instantly engulfed in flames, their cries of agony shaking the heavens and the earth.

Wutugu rode an elephant and charged, seeking a way to survive.

However, the fire was too fierce, and the white elephant was frightened.

The man stood up and threw the gut to the ground.

Pound saw it clearly, drew his bow and arrow, and struck him squarely in the throat.

The barbarian king fell to the ground and was immediately engulfed by flames.

The scene in the valley was horrific.

Three thousand rattan-armored soldiers and three thousand barbarian soldiers embraced each other, rolling and struggling in the sea of ​​fire.

Some barbarian soldiers tried to remove their rattan armor, but the armor had been burned and stuck to their skin and flesh.

With one tear, the skin is ripped open and the flesh is torn.

The sulfur flames intensified when they met the oil, turning the entire valley into a purgatory.

The stench of burning permeated for dozens of miles.

Lu Xun stood atop the mountain, his robes fluttering in the wind.

In the firelight, his face was as handsome as jade, and his eyes as bright as stars.

He waved his feather fan lightly, giving instructions with composure:
"Load the arquebuses on the left flank, prepare the fire arrows on the right flank!"

When Ma Dai and Pang De arrived at the mountain, they both bowed in submission:

"General, your strategy is brilliant! We are in awe!"

Lu Xun helped the two generals up and said:
"...This is not something I can do."

"Although rattan armor is tough, it is soaked in oil and is most vulnerable to fire."

"Therefore, this plan was devised to lure the enemy into the valley."

"However, I am truly ashamed of the loss of life."

Ma Dai then asked:
"Why is the Commander so certain that rattan armor is afraid of fire?"

Lu Xun sighed:

“The local people of the South make armor by soaking green vines in oil.”

"It takes more than ten rounds of repeated sun exposure to complete the process."

"Though impervious to swords and arrows, it ignites upon contact with fire."

This is precisely what is meant by one thing overcoming another.

"A general should not only rely on bravery, but also on understanding principles and knowing things."

By the time of Shen Shi (3-5 PM), the firelight in the valley gradually died down.

The corpses were piled up, charred black and indistinguishable.

All six thousand barbarian soldiers perished.

Lu Xun descended the mountain to inspect the scene and, upon seeing the devastation, could not help but sigh deeply:
"The success of one general is built on the bones of ten thousand soldiers; this is what it means."

He then ordered the soldiers:

“Bury it on the spot and erect a monument to commemorate it.”

"When the war ends, we will pray for the souls of the dead."

……

The words are divided into two parts.

The flames of war have reignited in Longxi.

After Sima Yi divided his troops into two routes, he personally led a large army, with banners covering the sky, heading straight for the strategic pass of Chencang.

It was late autumn.
Reeds on both banks of the Wei River are covered in snow-like blossoms, and the west wind whips up battle robes that flutter in the wind.

Sima Yi stationed his horse on a high hill, gazing at the terrain of Chencang.

But seeing the two mountains flanking each other and a river flowing around them, I couldn't help but clap my hands and sigh:

"Zhuge Liang's military strategy is divine. If he manages to seize this place first, our army will be in grave danger!"

Deng Ai, a military advisor, offered the following advice:

"...Your Excellency is wise."

"However, the scouts reported that the main force of the Han army should be tied down by General Wutugu at the Wei River."

"They probably won't be able to get here in a short time."

"Now is the perfect time to launch a swift and decisive attack on Chencang, to strike first and gain the upper hand."

Sima Yi nodded and immediately ordered the three armies to double their speed.

Iron armor gleams in the sun, warhorses neigh in the wind.

The Wei army surged toward Chencang like a black tide.

Upon reaching the city walls, however, the scene changed drastically.

A fortified city was built out of nowhere in what was originally a desolate place called Chencangkou.

The moat was three zhang deep, the parapet five ren high, and the antlers were like a thicket of thorns.

Beneath the large banner bearing the character "Han" atop the city wall, a general in golden armor and red robes stood—it was none other than General Hao Zhao, the General Who Guards the West.

Hao Zhao was from Taiyuan, Bingzhou, and was a general from the Hebei faction.

He was among the first to follow Zhang He in the Hebei campaign and was awarded the title of General Zhenxi for his military achievements.

He was then assigned to Guanzhong to participate in the defense of Guanzhong.

They have rich combat experience and are mature and steady.

Although he had few troops, he still took the time to repair the local defenses as soon as he arrived in Chencang.

Even so, Sima Yi still didn't take them seriously.

He thought to himself that he had tens of thousands of troops, while Hao Zhao only had a few thousand.

He was certain that he was no match for him.

I am certain that I can capture Chencang before Zhuge Liang's army arrives to provide reinforcements.

Sima Yi then ordered Deng Ai to lead his army to challenge them.

Deng Ai led his vanguard to probe the city, and in an instant, arrows flew like locusts, and rolling logs and stones came down.

The Wei army suffered several hundred casualties and retreated.

Sima Yi ascended the tent to discuss matters, his face grim:

"Hao Zhao only had three thousand troops, yet he managed to make Chencang as impregnable as an iron barrel."

Just as he was pondering, a man suddenly emerged from under the tent; it was Jin Xiang, a former subordinate of Longxi.

He bowed and said:
"I have known Hao Zhao since childhood, and I am willing to use my eloquence to persuade him to surrender."

Sima Yi stared for a long time, then suddenly smiled and said:

"If we succeed, we will petition the King of Wei to grant you the title of Marquis within the Pass."

Jin Xiang rode alone to the city walls, raised his head and shouted:

"Bo Dao, an old friend, has come to visit!"

As soon as he finished speaking, the city gate creaked open a foot or so, and Jin Xiangfu entered before it closed again.

As they ascended the city wall, they saw Hao Zhao standing with his hand on his sword, his armor clanging loudly.

Jin Xiangfang wanted to hold hands and reminisce, but Hao Zhao coldly said:
"Brother, you are now an envoy of Wei, while Zhao is a subject of Han. How can personal friendship override public duty?"

Pointing to the Wei army camp outside the city, he said, "Wherever the banners point, that's where the fighting will begin."

Seeing Hao Zhao's resolute attitude, Jin Xiang still tried to persuade him:
"Brother, do you not see the strategic advantage of Chencang?"

"Although the Han dynasty is strong, the Wei dynasty is weak."

“However, my worthy brother, the garrison at Chencang only numbers three thousand, while I, Prime Minister Sima, have fifty thousand elite troops at my disposal. We can wipe out the Chencang army with a snap of our fingers.”

“If my worthy brother surrenders, he will be treated generously.”

"Though it be blind loyalty, it will surely lead to the annihilation of the Chencang garrison." "I urge my worthy brother to reconsider!"

Before he could finish speaking, Hao Zhao suddenly drew his sword and slashed off the corner of his robe, shouting sharply:

"This robe is like this friendship! Go and inform Sima Yi immediately."

"With Hao Zhao here, there are only generals who would rather die than surrender!"

After speaking, he ordered his soldiers to throw back the Longxi Qiang wine that Jin Xiang had given him, and the wine spilled on the ground like blood.

Upon seeing this, Jin Xiang was dumbfounded and stammered:

"Brother, how heartless you are! Don't you remember our past friendship?"

Hao Zhao said solemnly:
"Sima Yi is our enemy! I serve Han, you serve Wei."

“Each serves their own master; once brothers, now enemies.”

"Every country has its laws, as you are aware of."

“I have received the Emperor’s grace, and I am only willing to die. Brother, there is no need for you to say anything.”

"Go back to Sima Yi as soon as possible and tell him to attack the city quickly. I have nothing to fear!"

As dusk settled, torches flickered in the Wei army camp.

Inside the central command tent, Sima Yi stood with his hands behind his back in front of the Mountain and River Screen.

Jin Xiang returned to his tent, knelt on one knee, his armor clanging, and said with embarrassment:

"Before this humble general could speak, Hao Zhao blocked him with arrows!"

"Let's go again."

Sima Yi's voice was as calm as a deep pool: "Although Chencang is small, it is the throat of Hanzhong."

“Tell him that with 50,000 troops pressing in, no 3,000 isolated soldiers can withstand them.”

When Jin Xiang rode his horse to the city again, the setting sun was dyeing the banners blood red.

A figure in silver armor slowly appeared on the city wall. Hao Zhao stood with his bow drawn, the cold glint of the arrowheads reflecting the frost and snow on the city wall.

"Brother Bo Dao!"

Jin Xiang reined in his horse and shouted, his voice echoing across the wilderness, "The roads to Shu are treacherous, and reinforcements are unlikely to arrive."

"You are trying to fight against the heavenly army with a lonely city. Isn't that like throwing an egg against a rock?"

"If we surrender the city, we can ensure the safety of the people and the lives of our comrades!"

Hao Zhao's bow was as taut as a full moon, its string resonating through the air:
"The matter has been decided; there is no need for further discussion!"

The arrow pierced three feet in front of Jin Xiang's horse.

"I will spare your life out of consideration for our past friendship; if you take another step closer, I will execute you without mercy!"

Jin Xiang had no choice but to return to Sima Yi.

Upon hearing the report, Sima Yi suddenly clenched the bamboo scroll on the table with his five fingers.

The bamboo strips were deeply embedded in his palm as he angrily said:

"How dare a mere scoundrel like this!"

“I value talent, which is why I tried to persuade him to surrender.”

"Since you wish to die, then so be it!"

Having said that, he slammed his hand on the table, stood up, and shouted:
"Pass on the order—"

"Build a hundred cloud ladders, and launch a simultaneous attack at the third quarter of the morning!"

That night, the north wind howled fiercely, and the craftsmen of the Wei camp worked through the night to build the watchtowers.

Each cloud ladder is ten zhang high, wrapped in raw cowhide, and suspended with planks, resembling a hundred moving mountains.

Each ladder can carry dozens of people.

At dawn, war drums thundered, and a dense mass of siege ladders ascended the city walls, with Wei soldiers climbing like ants, blades in their mouths.

Hao Zhao stood on the enemy tower, his black cloak billowing in the smoke of battle.

Suddenly, he raised the command flag and waved it three times, and three thousand guards appeared from the battlements.

Each person carried a portable crossbow, the arrows soaked in pine resin.

This new type of fire crossbow was also developed by the Han Dynasty's "Science and Technology Corps".

Once the research was successful, Li Yi waved his hand and ordered mass production.

Then prioritize equipping the Guanzhong army.

"put!"

Instantly, the rocket crashed to the ground like a meteor, and the siege ladder transformed into a fiery dragon.

Amidst screams, the charred body fell like ripe wild dates.

Hot oil poured from the city walls, igniting upon contact with fire, turning the moat into a furnace.

Sima Yi gazed at the sea of ​​fire from afar, his face turning ashen.

Seeing that one plan had failed, he devised another, issuing the following order:
"Bring the mortar!"

At a command, twenty battering rams were deployed to the battlefield.

It wasn't just the Han Dynasty that was climbing the military science ladder.

Sima Yi was also copying homework.

He learned from Li Yi's strategies and also integrated the skilled craftsmen of Shu, combining them together.

They established a military research institute with distinctive characteristics of the Wei state.

This new type of battering ram is a scientific research achievement of the State of Wei.

Its most distinctive feature is its luxury.

It is covered in iron and copper, with a core of century-old wood, and the iron spike at the front of the vehicle gleams coldly.

Hundreds of strong men pushed the cart forward with tremendous force, the impact sounding like thunder splitting the earth.

Hao Zhao personally led his elite troops down from the city wall.

General-level officers personally engaged in bayonet fighting, greatly boosting the morale of the Han army.

"Chisel the stone!"

Holes were quickly chiseled out of the bluestone bricks, and ropes were threaded through the stones like a woven net.

The guards shouted in unison, and the hundred-pound stones, propelled by the force of the throwing poles, whistled out.

The iron-clad wooden battering rig was broken into pieces like a child's toy.

As dusk fell, corpses littered the fields outside Chencang City.

Sima Yi gazed at the towering "Han" banner atop the city wall, his face turning ashen with rage.

Seeing that neither of his two plans worked, he then thought of attacking the enemy from a hole.

Therefore, the order was given:

"Even if we have to dig three feet into the ground, we will break through this fortified city!"

That night, the stars and moon were not shining.

Three thousand Wei soldiers, carrying shovels and hoes, stealthily made their way to the southwest corner of the city.

Zhang Yi, the supervisor, urged in a low voice:

"The tunnel must be completed before dawn!"

The sound of iron tools digging the earth was like a swarm of rats gnawing at night, and the earthen mound gradually piled up like a hill.

Suddenly, a gong sounded from inside the city. Hao Zhao ordered his soldiers to dig a deep trench along the base of the wall and pour in tung oil and sulfur.

As soon as the Wei army's tunnel was completed, torches were thrown in.

The flames backfired through the tunnel, turning more than thirty vanguard soldiers into charred remains.

They attacked day and night for five days, and outside Chencang City, corpses lay piled up one after another.

Sima Yi sat alone in his tent, deeply troubled.

Unexpectedly, even an unknown figure like Hao Zhao could make it impossible for him to make any progress.

Suddenly, a commotion was heard at the gate.

A scout arrived with a report:

"Qi general Wei Yan led his troops from the east, with banners bearing the words 'General of the Vanguard of Han'!"

Xie Xiong, a subordinate general, drew his sword and stepped forward.

"I am willing to take this barbarian's head!"

Sima Yi agreed and ordered him to lead three thousand elite troops away in a cloud of dust.

Before the sound of horses' hooves had faded, Gong Qi again volunteered for battle:

"I am willing to stand guard for General Xie!"

Sima Yi nodded and also gave him three thousand men.

Then he suddenly frowned and said:

"The entire army shall retreat twenty li and set up camp to guard against Hao Zhao's outflanking attack from the city!"

"They are coordinating with the Qi army from within and without to attack our army."

The entire army then lifted the siege of Chencang.

Meanwhile, Xie Xiong faced Wei Yan and saw that the approaching general had a red face, a long beard, and a large, cold-looking sword.

Three exchanges of blows, the blade flashes.
Xie Xiong was cleaved in two, armor and all.

Gong Qi rushed to their aid, while Wei Yan turned his horse around, dragging his sword, feigning defeat.

Suddenly, he turned his horse around and shouted.

With a swift, backhand "Returning Wind Sweeps the Willow," Gong Qi's head flew off his horse.

The Han army rallied and, after a fierce attack, inflicted a major defeat on the Wei army.

As the defeated army fled back to Xinzai, Sima Yi was observing a sand table simulation.

Upon hearing the news, his brows furrowed.

Then Zhang Yi entered the tent and reported:

"Wei Yan has already set up camp outside the city, building heavy walls and digging deep trenches, with palisades as numerous as a forest."

The voice has not fallen,

The sound of drums outside the tent was deafening—the Han army had actually pressed forward to the front of the camp to challenge them.

Sima Yi hurriedly ordered three generals, Zhang Yi, Wang Ping, and Zhang Yi, to come out and meet them.

At the point where the two armies faced each other, Wei Yan charged into the enemy lines alone, his blade pointed directly at Zhang Yi:
"I have come here on the orders of the Commander-in-Chief. How dare you block my way?"

Zhang Yi didn't answer, but instead raised his spear to meet the attack.

Sparks flew as guns and knives clashed.

After ten rounds of fighting, Wei Yan feigned weakness and turned his horse to flee.

Zhang Yi spurred his horse to give chase, but Wang Ping shouted urgently:

"He's using a dragging-sword tactic; don't pursue him!"

But then the meteor hammer flew out from Wei Yan's sleeve and struck Zhang Yi in the back.

Zhang Yi and Wang Ping rode out together and fought to the death to rescue Zhang Yi.

Wei Yan led his troops in a counterattack, and although arrows rained down from the Wei camp, they could not stop his advance.

The Han army only sounded the retreat when the sun had set.

When Sima Yi inspected the camp, he saw wounded soldiers crying out in agony everywhere. He suddenly stopped and asked those around him:

"I had previously heard that Wei Yan was a general under Li Yi?"

Cheng Wu, who had just joined the army, answered in a low voice:
"This man was originally a surrendered general from Jingzhou. Later, he followed Li Yi to Hebei and made many military achievements."

Sima Yi stroked his sword and sighed deeply:
"All the heroes of the world are now in my grasp!"

The night wind ruffled his peacock feather cloak, and his voice deepened:

"Issue the order—build deep trenches and high walls, and temporarily avoid their attack."

"Let me think of a way to defeat the enemy before I come up with another plan."

Sima Yi dismissed everyone and discussed matters with his military advisor Deng Ai.

"Chencang is now an impregnable fortress. With Wei Yan as his henchman, Hao Zhao will find it difficult to strike suddenly."

Deng Ai traced the sheepskin map with his fingertip, stopping at the old road to Jieting, and said:

"It would be better to... set up camp near the mountains and water, and send a good general to guard the strategic points."

"The Prime Minister can personally lead the army out of Xiegu and strike directly at Qishan."

Suddenly, the candlelight on the table flickered and burst, illuminating a glint of light in Sima Yi's eyes.

"For now, this is the only option."

The next day, he took his seat in the tent, and command arrows flew everywhere.

Wang Ping and Li Hui led 20,000 troops to the small road in Jieting to block any Han troops that might be passing by.

Zhang Yi was stationed at Chencangkou to contain the troops of Wei Yan and Hao Zhao.

Zhang Yi led the vanguard, while Cheng Wu oversaw the supply of provisions.

When the three armies set off, Sima Yi made a point of helping Zhang Yi, who was coughing up blood, to his feet:
"I am truly ashamed that the general was wounded and went on a distant expedition."

However, he secretly slipped the order into his wristband:
"If the main force of the Han army is spotted at Qishan, immediately raise a beacon as a signal."

Meanwhile, Zhuge Liang arrived at Chencang with a small entourage.

Seeing that the stove pits of the Wei camp outside the city were still warm, they knew that their main force had only recently retreated.

Pointing the feather fan towards the direction of Xiegu, he said to the crowd:
"Sima Yi feigned a retreat while actually advancing, intending to emulate the old strategy of openly repairing the plank road."

“I was certain that they would take the Xiegu Valley and head towards Qishan.”

Therefore, he discussed the strategy for advancing the troops with his generals.

The generals in the tent were still arguing.

Until a thunderous roar rang out from inside the tent:
"I am willing to feign surrender!"

Upon closer inspection, they recognized him as Guo Huai, a surrendered general from the State of Wei, who was then serving as the General of the Vanguard.

This surrendered general, who had once been assigned to defend Hulao Pass with a lone force and was captured alive by Li Yi in one night, now knelt on one knee.

"Prime Minister Huai is very kind to bestow upon me the title of Champion General."

"Now I am willing to feign surrender to Wei, so that we can coordinate with the army from within and without."

Kongming stared at Guo Huai and said solemnly:

"If the general's plan to feign surrender succeeds, you will be the one to achieve the greatest merit in defeating Wei."

As he spoke, he pointed to the incense burner on the table and said in a deep voice:

"General, your journey should be like this incense in the censer—burning yourself without changing your fragrance."

The implication was that he was trying to put Guo Huai in a bad light.

Guo Huai prostrated himself on the ground, weeping, to express his loyalty.

Then he bit his finger and wrote the surrender document in blood.

Three days later, the vanguard of the Wei army reached the heart of Xiegu Valley.

When the patrolling soldiers captured someone acting suspiciously, they brought him to the central command tent.

The man prostrated himself and said:

"I am a confidant of Guo Guanjun, and I have confidential matters to report to the Prime Minister!"

Sima Yi dismissed his attendants and saw the newcomer take out a blood-written letter from a hidden compartment in his robes. As he unfolded it, he saw that the handwriting was mottled:
To Prime Minister Wei Zhongda:

"Huai bows his head and prostrates himself, his blood and tears mixed with ink."

"The loss of Hulao Pass in the past was not due to a failure in battle."

"Li Yi used a swift and unexpected attack to cross the Hulao Pass."

"Huaiqin fought a bloody battle against arrows and stones, his sword broke and his bow was exhausted, but he was finally captured."

"Liu Bei feigned kindness and forcibly granted him the title of General of the Champions."

“Ran Huai would always face west and weep while eating, and he would often wake up in a fright at night, clutching his sword.”

"Upon hearing of the Prime Minister's awe-inspiring presence pointing north, my heart and soul are filled with turmoil."

"I am willing to emulate Shen Baoxu's ambition to weep at the Qin court and act as an internal ally in Xiegu."

"This place has high mountains and dense forests, and can ambush 30,000 elite troops."

"At the hour of Hai on the 25th, light three fires as a signal."

"If we join forces to attack the Qi army's camp, we will surely be able to capture Zhuge Liang alive."

"Huai has secretly trained a hundred of his old troops, all of whom are willing to die for him."

"On the day the Qi army is defeated, Huai will carry Jing to pay homage to the King of Wei."

"If I could return to my homeland, I would have no regrets even if I were to be executed."

"Times are pressing and the situation is perilous; I humbly request the Prime Minister to make a wise decision."

Sima Yi repeatedly stroked the blood-written letter, the edges of the silk already cracked from being gripped so tightly.

He said excitedly:

"A golden opportunity! A golden opportunity!"

"If Guo Boji truly submits, the gateway to Qishan will be wide open."

"Heaven has helped me defeat Zhuge Liang."

Sima Fu abruptly pushed aside his guards and stormed in, his battle robes billowing in the biting night wind:
"Second Brother! Guo Huai surrendered to the Han Dynasty nine years ago and was already appointed as the Champion General."

Why did you suddenly return?

He pointed to the continuous lights outside the tent, saying, "Zhuge Liang is full of cunning schemes."

"He was a disciple of the traitor Li and was most skilled at using counter-espionage tactics."

"Have you forgotten how that traitor Li incited the people of Hanoi back then?"

Sima Yi placed the blood-written letter on the table, his voice turning low and somber.

"Guo Huai was originally from Wei, and now he wishes to return to Wei. What is there to doubt?"

"Besides, he is in the enemy camp; how can he come and go as he pleases?"

Even if there are difficulties, one should still be cautious!

Sima Fu stepped forward, the candlelight illuminating the deep lines between his brows.

"If we fall into their trap this time, the entire army will be in grave danger!"

Sima Yi, his brow furrowed with displeasure, stood with his hands behind his back and said in a deep voice:

"The enemy is strong and we are weak; Qi is rich and Wei is poor."

"If we don't take risks, are we just going to sit and wait for the Qi army to devour us?"

His eyes already showed determination, and he said in a deep voice:
"The hatred of our clan's extermination has never been forgotten in the past thirteen years!"

The tent was deathly silent, except for the crackling of torches.

Sima Fu suddenly removed his helmet, knelt down, clasped his hands in a fist and said:
"In that case, please let me lead the way."

His eyes were red when he looked up. "Since my elder brother passed away, the Sima family has relied entirely on my second brother for support."

"If anything untoward happens to me this time, I am willing to bear the blame alone!"

Sima Yi helped his younger brother up, his fingertips brushing against the other's armor.

"When my mother was on her deathbed, she held our hands and said, 'Brothers united, their strength can break metal.'"

As he spoke, he took down the command token and handed it to him.

"Then you shall lead 30,000 elite troops there, and I shall lead the main army to support you from behind."

"If you see three clusters of smoke, it's a sign you've fallen into a trap. Retreat immediately!"

The following evening, mist shrouded the mountains deep in the valley.

After traveling for half a day, the valley was shrouded in twilight.

Just as the Wei army had finished removing their armor and the smoke from their cooking fires began to rise, they suddenly heard the thunderous sounds of drums and horns from all four mountain peaks.

Crimson flags billowed like blood across the forest, and Han soldiers emerged from the jagged rocks as if divine warriors had descended from the heavens.

The four-wheeled vehicle rolled over the gravel.

Zhuge Liang gently waved his feather fan, and his turban fluttered in the valley breeze.

"Please, Commander of the Wei army, answer this question!"

The soldiers in the Han army shouted in unison, their voices resounding throughout the world.

Sima Fu, wielding a silver spear and riding a white horse, leaped out of the main formation and secretly instructed his deputy:

"When the Qi army is pressing in, feign a retreat; when you see fire breaking out behind the mountain, turn back and launch a surprise attack!"

Having finished speaking, he raised his gun and shouted:

"General Sima Fu, the Great Wei General Who Pacifies the West, is here!"

Kongming bowed slightly in the carriage:
"Why is Zhongda so cowardly? He actually sent his younger brother to shield him from the enemy's arrows."

Sima Fu laughed and said:

“My brother is of noble birth; how could he be a traitor?”

Zhuge Liang sneered and suddenly swung his feather fan down.

Two elite troops suddenly emerged from both sides of the valley—

On the left flank, Zhang He's iron halberd swept across, while on the right flank, Li Yan's long sword gleamed with a chilling light.

Following the plan, the Wei army fought and retreated, and after about thirty miles, they suddenly saw fire break out in the rear of the Han army.

The shouts of battle pierced the clouds and shattered the rocks.

Sima Fu was overjoyed and said to his attendants:
"Guo Boji's trust is truly profound!"

He then reined in his horse, turned his spear around, and led his personal guards straight to the source of the fire.

Unexpectedly, just as they were about to reach the fire, two armies led by Sun Li and Wang Jing suddenly appeared from the mountain path.

Logs and boulders rolled down like a torrential downpour.

"Oh no, I've fallen into their trap!"

Sima Fu hastily ordered a retreat, but the valley road was already blocked by boulders.

The Wei soldiers trampled each other, and those who fell into the ravine cried out in agony.

Zhang He's fresh troops launched a surprise attack from behind, staining the Xiegu Valley stream with blood.

Sima Fu abandoned his horse and climbed the rock. Suddenly, he saw a group of soldiers in white armor emerge from behind the rock, and the leader of them was none other than Guo Huai.

"You faithless traitor, how dare you deceive me!"

Sima Fu's eyes widened in fury, and he raised his whip, cursing:

"My brother has treated you with the utmost respect!"

Guo Huai sighed, brandishing his spear:

"Intending to fish for a giant turtle, I ended up catching a crucian carp instead."

"If the general surrenders, the righteousness of the ancestral temple can still be preserved."

Suddenly, Zhuge Liang's carriage appeared at the valley entrance, its sound echoing through the valley:

"Zhongda abandoned his brother like a discarded shoe, why should the general show such foolish loyalty?"

Sima Fu laughed loudly, his sword reversed and pressed against his throat:

"Among the Sima clan, there are only generals who would rather die than surrender!"

"The hatred of our clan's extermination is irreconcilable."

The words fell,

As the sword flashed, blood splattered into the wild chrysanthemums on the cliff edge.

Amidst the solemn silence of the Han army, Guo Huai dismounted and picked up Sima Fu's helmet.

Upon seeing the four characters "Made by my elder brother" embroidered on the inner silk lining, I couldn't help but sigh deeply:

"I regret that I have not yet been able to execute the ringleader!"

Guo Huai hated Sima Yi.

Because in order to cover the Wei army's relocation of civilians, Sima Yi specifically left Guo Huai to guard Hulao Pass.

This essentially meant sending him alone to fight against Liu Bei's massive army.

Unexpectedly, Li Yibing took a risky move and actually allowed the Han army to cross the river by air.

They broke through Hulao Pass in just one day.

Guo Huai was humiliated and captured, and deeply resented Sima Yi for abandoning him.

Kongming stroked the carriage railing in silence for a long time, then pointed to a gnarled pine tree among the rocks and said:

"Have you seen it? Although this tree is broken, its roots still grip and crack the rock face."

"When Sima Zhongda hears this, he will surely mobilize the entire nation to seek revenge."

"Sichuan is a poor and weak land. How can it continue to drain the blood of its people in this way?"

"If this goes on for too long, the people of Shu will surely stop helping Sima Yi."

……

(End of this chapter)