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

Chapter 414 Sima Yi's Six Expeditions to Qishan: Cao Wei's Fate is Dying
In Chengdu, spring rain is drizzling.

Inside the Prime Minister's residence, Sima Yi sat alone at his desk.

I gaze at the strategic mountains and rivers between Hanzhong and Guanzhong on the map.

He launched five Northern Expeditions, and suffered five defeats.

Every failure felt like a knife etched into his heart.

"Prime Minister, the grain and fodder inventory has been completed."

Chief Secretary Huang Quan bowed and entered, holding the bamboo slips.

Sima Yi didn't even raise his head:
"explain."

"The current food and fodder reserves are only enough for three months, and 30% of the military equipment is missing, as are the warhorses..."

"Alas, the Shu region is already short of horses."

"Previously, it was possible to purchase Ferghana horses from people in the Western Regions, but now Zhuge Liang has opened up the Silk Road."

"The kingdoms of the Western Regions submitted to the Han and the Qi Kingdom one after another."

"No country is willing to sell us horses anymore."

Huang Quan sighed helplessly.

In ancient times, the most powerful type of soldier was the cavalry.

The lack of horses in Shu would not only weaken the Wei army's fighting strength.

More importantly, the roads to Shu are difficult and the journey is rugged.

A large number of livestock are needed for transportation.

"enough!"

Sima Yi suddenly slammed his hand on the table, causing the bamboo slips to fall to the ground.

"Fourteen years, a full fourteen years!"

"Since I followed King Zhuang into Shu, I have never failed to work hard to govern the region, hoping that Shu can develop."

"During this period, I launched five Northern Expeditions!"

"Each time, the mission failed due to insufficient supplies and inadequate military equipment!"

"Can you possibly comprehend such a disgrace?"

Clearly, Sima Yi did not simply attribute his failure to his personal abilities.

In his view, if he could have the military and national strength of the Han Dynasty as his backing, he would definitely be able to become a god.

The reality was that, given the vast disparity in national strength, Sima Yi was already at a disadvantage.

Faced with the combination of Zhuge Liang and Lu Xun in Guanzhong, Sima Yi found it even more difficult to make any progress.

Every time, they failed at the last minute.

Huang Quan was trembling with fear:

"Prime Minister, please calm your anger..."

Sima Yi took a deep breath and walked to the window.

On the streets of Chengdu in the rain, a few wounded soldiers could be seen walking unsteadily.

He suddenly remembered his clansmen who had died tragically at Li Yi's hands, and his fists clenched involuntarily.

"Order: Cease hostilities immediately."

"Store up grass and grain, discuss military tactics and tactics, and improve military equipment."

"Within two years, Sichuan will be completely transformed!"

The following day, the Prime Minister's Office issued the "Edict for Governing Shu":
"First, we should expand the military farms and let the soldiers and civilians work together."

"Secondly, we will repair water conservancy projects and irrigate fertile fields."

"Thirdly, encourage commerce and trade to replenish the treasury."

Fourthly, refine military equipment and improve combat tools.

Fifthly, we should care for our soldiers and treat the wounded and disabled with respect.

Once the order was given, the Sichuan region immediately sprang into action.

Sima Yi personally visited Dujiangyan to oversee the construction of water conservancy projects.

He rolled up his sleeves and joined the laborers in carrying stones to build a dam.

The officials were all shocked by what they saw.

"You mustn't do that, Prime Minister!"

Huang Quan hurriedly tried to dissuade him.

Sima Yi wiped the sweat from his brow:
“In the past, Li Bing and his son built this dam, which turned the Chengdu Plain into the land of abundance.”

"If we, the younger generation, cannot preserve and expand upon what we have achieved, how can we face our ancestors?"

A year has passed, and the wheat fields on the Chengdu Plain are rippling in the breeze.

Sima Yi also established the Military Equipment Bureau and recruited skilled craftsmen from all over the country.

"This crossbow's range is insufficient,"

Sima Yi picked up a crossbow and examined it closely. "We can learn from the repeating crossbow design of the Qi state to increase its range."

The craftsman looked troubled: "Prime Minister, the repeating crossbow mechanism is complex and I'm afraid it will be difficult to replicate."

Sima Yi sneered:
"Difficult? Since Zhuge Liang was able to modify Li Yi's Li Lian crossbow into the Zhuge Repeating Crossbow."

"Can't we improve the crossbow ourselves? Bring us paper and pen!"

He personally drew up the blueprints, combining the repeating crossbow with the Shu crossbow.

A new crossbow capable of firing ten arrows in succession was designed.

They also improved the armor, using Shu brocade as a lining, making it lightweight and durable.

Obviously,

Repeated failures and immense mental pressure gave birth to the strongest Sima Yi.

He studied Li Yi's experience and techniques with great enthusiasm, hoping to improve upon them and even surpass them.

On the first and fifteenth of each lunar month, Sima would personally visit the military camp to observe the drills.

"The formation is loose!"

He pointed to the troops undergoing drills.

"The Eight Trigrams Formation emphasizes change; you only know how to memorize the positions by rote, wouldn't that cause you to miss opportunities in battle?"

Since being utterly defeated by Zhuge Liang's Eight Trigrams Formation last time.

Upon returning, Sima Yi immediately began to ponder ways to break the Eight Trigrams Formation.

In the end, Sima Yi still couldn't come up with a solution.

Since you can't beat them, then join them!
If I, Sima Yi, cannot break your formation, Zhuge Kongming, then I have no choice but to learn your formation.

Therefore, in training troops, Sima Yi relied on his many years of military experience.

Imitating Zhuge Liang, he also created his own "Eight Trigrams Formation".

Sima Yi personally took to the field and directed the change of formation.

With a wave of his command flag, he commanded his troops with unparalleled skill, their formations shifting and changing in unpredictable fashion.

The soldiers were dumbfounded.

"The art of war lies in one's mind."

"Formations are inanimate, but people are alive!"

Sima Yi admonished.

As night fell, Sima Yi would often visit the wounded soldiers' camp to comfort and care for them.

"Prime Minister!"

An old soldier with a missing arm struggled to get up.

Sima Yi held him down:

"No need for formalities. Is there any difficulty in your family?"

The veteran choked up:

"My wife is often ill, and my child is still young..."

Sima Yi immediately issued the following order:
"Order: Wounded soldiers shall be given three shi of rice per month."

"Families of those killed in battle will receive double the compensation!"

Two years have passed in the blink of an eye.

In the fourteenth year of Zhangwu, a grand military review was held outside Chengdu.

Banners blotted out the sun, and armor gleamed brightly.

The new crossbows fired in unison, arrows flying like locusts.

The heavily armored infantry formed a solid, rock-solid formation.

The cavalry charge was swift as lightning.

Huang Quan held up the latest statistics:
"Prime Minister, the current grain reserves are enough to last for two years."

"The armaments are complete, with three thousand new crossbows."

"The soldiers are in high spirits and eager for battle."

Sima Yi nodded, his gaze sweeping over the orderly ranks of soldiers before finally settling on the north:
"Li Yi... Liu Bei... do you all know him?"

"For the past two years, not a single day has gone by that I haven't thought about revenge!"

He slowly drew his sword, pointing it straight north:

"Now we have ample food supplies, excellent weaponry, and our soldiers are fighting bravely."

"We should launch a northern expedition to punish the false emperor and avenge our national and personal grievances!"

The three armed forces moved in thunderous motion:

"Northern Expedition! Northern Expedition! Northern Expedition!"

Sima Yi sheathed his sword, his eyes flashing with cold light.

After two years of honing our skills, today we are finally ready to unleash our full potential.

He knew that this Northern Expedition had to succeed; failure was not an option.

As dawn broke,

King Cao Rui of Wei held court and listened to government affairs, with civil and military officials standing on both sides.

Sima Yi stepped forward to present his report, his voice booming like a bell:

"Your Majesty's grace has enabled me to guard the Shu region, where I have been preparing for war for two years."

"Now that we have abundant food supplies, complete military equipment, and strong men and horses, we can attack Qi."

"If we fail to eliminate the treacherous party and restore the Central Plains this time, I swear I will never return to see the King."

Cao Rui frowned:

"Prime Minister, do you know that China is currently very powerful, while Sichuan is relatively weak?"

"To use the weak to attack the strong is to defy the will of Heaven."

Sima Yi raised his head and said:

"Your Majesty, one must defy fate and change destiny in all things!"

"When King Wu of Zhou attacked King Zhou of Shang, he was the one who defeated the strong with the weak, and in the end, he established the Zhou dynasty's eight-hundred-year reign."

"I have been deeply grateful for the late king's favor, and I have never stopped devising a plan to attack Qi, even in my dreams."

"Now we shall exert all our strength and loyalty to help the King recover the Central Plains."

"Eliminate the false emperor and uphold the legitimate dynasty!"

Before he finished speaking, one of the students stepped forward from the ranks:

"Prime Minister, you must not raise an army!"

Upon closer inspection, everyone recognized him as Qiao Zhou, the Grand Historian.

Qiao Zhou held his jade tablet, his expression one of panic:
"Your Majesty, I am in charge of the Astronomical Bureau. Seeing the frequent occurrence of calamities and strange phenomena, I dare not fail to report this."

"Recently, tens of thousands of birds flew from the south and fell into the Han River and died. This is a very bad omen."

“I observed the celestial phenomena last night and saw that the Kui star was positioned between the stars of Venus and Venus, with its most prominent energy in the north, which is favorable for defense but not for offense.”

"And the people of Chengdu all heard that the cypress tree at the Temple of the Former King was weeping at night..."

"Given these various calamities, Prime Minister, you should exercise caution and refrain from any rash actions!"

Sima Yi's expression changed drastically:
"Grand Historian Qiao! I have been entrusted with the heavy responsibility by the late king, and I shall do my utmost to punish the traitor."

"How can we let a false alarm of disaster cause us to abandon important national affairs?"

After speaking, he turned and bowed to Cao Rui, saying:
"Your Majesty, I request permission to lead this expedition. If anything goes wrong, I will gladly accept the consequences!"

Cao Rui pondered for a long time before saying:
"Since the Prime Minister has made up his mind, I will grant your request."

"But please remember: do not underestimate the enemy, and do not act rashly."

Sima Yi bowed again:
"Your subject obeys! We will proceed cautiously and steadily, step by step."

After the court session, Sima Yi personally led all the civil and military officials to the temple of King Zhuang of Wei.

Offerings were displayed, and incense smoke swirled around them.

Sima Yi burned incense, bowed twice, and tearfully said:

"With the late King above, your subject Yi has led five expeditions to Qishan, yet has not gained an inch of land. My guilt is no small matter!"

"Now I have once again taken command of the entire army and will march out of Qishan again. I vow to exert all my strength and heart to wipe out the false emperor and restore the Central Plains."

"Dedicate yourself to the end of your life and die!"

After speaking, he prostrated himself on the ground and wept bitterly.

Everyone around was moved to tears.

However, Cao Xiu, who had come to the Zhuangwang Temple to offer sacrifices, scoffed at this scene.

In his view, this was nothing more than Sima Yi putting on an act.

He did this on purpose, simply to win people's hearts.

That night, the candlelight flickered red.

Cao Rui sat alone at his desk, reviewing memorials, when suddenly a palace attendant came to report:
"Grand Marshal Cao Xiu requests an audience."

Cao Rui frowned slightly:

"Xuan."

Cao Xiu strode in, his expression grave:
"Your Majesty, I have heard that the Prime Minister is planning to send troops to attack Qi again?"

Cao Rui put down his vermilion brush:

“…Exactly.”

"The Prime Minister has been preparing for this for two years, and the provisions and military equipment are ready. It is the perfect time."

Cao Xiu said urgently:

"Your Majesty! There have been rumors circulating that Sima Yi is hoarding military power and intends to seize control of the government."

"Although the previous five campaigns were unsuccessful, they had been operating in Shu for many years and were deeply rooted."

"If we send in another large force now, I fear something unforeseen may happen!"

Cao Rui sighed deeply, rose, and walked to the window:

"Grand Marshal, do you know how I obtained this throne?"

Cao Xiu was taken aback:
"Your Majesty is the son of the late King, and has succeeded to the throne..."

Cao Rui shook his head with a wry smile:

"Everyone in the world knows that I bestowed this throne upon myself."

"Although the Han dynasty has declined, its remaining power still exists."

"Liu Bei of the Qi and Han dynasties claimed to be of imperial lineage, and the people of the world were drawn to him."

"The only way we can maintain the legitimacy of our rule is to continue to fight under the banner of 'destroying the false Han'."

"If we stop the Northern Expedition, we will be admitting to overstepping our bounds and losing our righteous cause of punishing the traitors."

Each of the three kingdoms had its own way of establishing itself.

Historically, the Cao Wei dynasty used the slogan "The Han dynasty is in decline and the Liu family has lost its virtue" to justify its succession.

That's why Wang Lang said that his Emperor Wen followed the example of Yao and Shun, and acted in accordance with Heaven and the people.

Because in ancient China, the principle was that those with virtue should rule the land.

The Eastern Wu kingdom, on the other hand, was founded entirely on auspicious omens.

Through his ministers, the Sun family presented auspicious omens on a large scale and frequently to demonstrate their legitimacy in the Wu region.

As for Shu Han?

That is, "The Han and the traitors cannot coexist, and the royal cause cannot be confined to one side."

It is often criticized that Jiang Wei's talent was inferior to Zhuge Liang's, yet he launched the Northern Expeditions far more frequently than Zhuge Liang.

Even though there was internal strife among the Shu Han leadership, they did not stop this Northern Expedition, which drained the country's resources.

in fact,

After Zhuge Liang's death, many high-ranking officials of Shu Han knew that "restoring the Central Plains" was basically hopeless.

However, there was not widespread opposition to the Northern Expedition.

The reason is that this was the foundation of Shu Han's state; if it did not continue its northern expeditions, Shu Han would lose its legitimacy to rule.

In the later stages, almost everyone, including Liu Shan, gave up and became complacent.

This is the helplessness that comes with a weak nation.

Today, the same problem applies to Cao Wei.

Cao Wei consistently used the pretext of eliminating the false emperor to maintain the legitimacy of its rule over Shu.

Regardless of how far-fetched the reason may be, you still need an excuse to shut up the gossip.

If the Northern Expedition were to be halted, its legitimacy would be even more questionable.

Cao Xiu argued:
Even so, we cannot allow Sima Yi to seize power!

"He claimed to be acting for the country, but in reality, he was seeking personal revenge."

"In the past two years, he has been levying exorbitant taxes and levies in Sichuan, causing great suffering to the people."

"The so-called 'stockpiling of grass and grain' is nothing but sucking the people's blood and sweat!"

Cao Rui turned and stared at Cao Xiu:

"Then what do you think should be done?"

Cao Xiu stepped closer and whispered:
"I suggest that Grand Commander Cao Zhen be appointed to jointly command the troops with Sima Yi."

"Cao Zhen was a senior official of the imperial family, and his loyalty is evident."

"With him by my side, we can both keep Sima Yi in check and divide his military power."

Cao Rui pondered for a moment:

"Cao Zhen and Sima Yi have always been at odds. If the two of them were to jointly command the military, it would likely lead to internal strife."

"It is precisely because of discord that they can check and balance each other!"

Cao Xiu said, "If Sima Yi were to hold absolute power, that would be the real danger."

"Moreover, Cao Zhen is a seasoned veteran and well-versed in military strategy, which perfectly complements Sima Yi's overly cautious approach to warfare."

Cao Rui pondered for a long time, and finally nodded:
"Very well. I will do as you say."

He then summoned a palace attendant and issued an imperial decree: "Issue the decree: Grand Commander Cao Zhen is appointed General Who Conquers the West. He will join forces with Chancellor Sima Yi to lead troops to attack Qi."

All military affairs must be decided by the two of them.

Cao Xiu was overjoyed:

"Your Majesty is wise! In this way, we can continue our great northern expedition."

"It can prevent powerful ministers from acting arbitrarily, which is a win-win solution."

The following day at the court assembly, Cao Rui publicly announced the imperial edict.

Upon hearing the order, Sima Yi's expression changed slightly, but he quickly regained his composure and stepped forward to express his gratitude.
"Your subject obeys the decree. With the Grand Commander accompanying us, we will surely defeat the enemy soon."

After the court session, Sima Yi returned to his residence.

Sima Shi hurriedly went to greet him:

"Father, the King's actions clearly indicate that he wants Cao Zhen to monitor us!"

Sima Yi sneered:
"In the end, the king still doesn't trust me."

A month later, 100,000 Wei troops, their banners obscuring the sky, marched from Hanzhong to attack Han.

This was the second time Sima Yi had mobilized the entire nation.

That's why he's so worried.

If he fails again this time, he will be unable to mobilize the entire nation a third time.

But even under such immense pressure, Cao Rui still managed to send a Grand Commander, Cao Zhen, to control his military power.

Cao Rui also had every reason to worry that the 100,000-strong army could not be entirely controlled by Sima Yi.

Shu Road
Chancellor Sima Yi and Grand Commander Cao Zhen rode side by side.

Behind them, Deng Ai and Xiahou Ba each led 5,000 elite troops as vanguards.

Inside the main tent of the army, all the generals gathered.

Sima Yi was about to issue an order when Cao Zhen spoke first:
"In my opinion, we should divide our forces into three routes:"

"Deng Ai will march out of the Ziwu Valley and take Chang'an directly, while Xiahou Ba will march out of the Xie Valley and attack Fufeng."

"The Prime Minister and I will lead the main force out of Qishan, advancing from three directions simultaneously, so that Zhuge Liang cannot attend to both ends!"

"Only in this way can we recover the Central Plains as soon as possible and support the rightful ruler."

Sima Yi frowned slightly:
"While the Grand Commander's strategy is brilliant, dividing the troops weakens our strength."

"Zhuge Liang is good at using surprise attacks. If he concentrates his forces to attack one of our routes, we may be defeated one by one."

Cao Zhen laughed loudly:

"You are overthinking this, Prime Minister!"

"Although the State of Qi is strong, its military strength in Guanzhong is somewhat insufficient."

"I have heard that Li Yi intends to reduce military spending in Guanzhong, which has resulted in Guanzhong's military preparedness being inadequate for many years."

"Since Guanzhong has few soldiers, why can't we divide our forces to meet them head-on?"

"Moreover," he glanced at the generals, "does the Prime Minister think that the soldiers of our Great Wei are inferior to the people of Qi?" The atmosphere in the tent immediately froze.

Generals such as Deng Ai and Xiahou Ba looked at each other, not daring to utter a sound.

Sima Yi's expression remained unchanged:
"...The Grand Commander is joking."

"In that case, we shall follow the governor's plan."

He then added, "However, the supply depots are all within a hundred miles of each other, so that they can support each other."

Cao Zhen disagreed:

"The key to military operations is speed. If we wait for each other, wouldn't we miss the opportunity to win?"

He turned to his generals and said, "Immediately assemble the troops and proceed according to plan!"

The generals looked at Sima Yi, and seeing him nod slightly, they all responded in unison:

"As ordered!"

After leaving the tent, Deng Ai secretly requested an audience with Sima Yi:
"Prime Minister, the Ziwu Valley is a treacherous place, making it an easy target for ambush."

"If we were to venture deep into enemy territory alone, how could Zhuge Liang, with his intelligence and wisdom, not recognize us?"

Sima Yi said calmly:

"...Shi Zai is overthinking it."

"The Grand Commander is well-versed in military strategy. Since he has devised this plan, he must be confident in its success."

"You only need to advance cautiously, and do not engage in battle lightly when you encounter the enemy."

Deng Ai understood:

"You will finally understand."

the other side,
Cao Zhen summoned Xiahou Ba:
"Does Zhongquan know why he ordered you to leave Xiegu?"

Xiahou Ba cupped his hands in greeting:
"Please enlighten me, Governor."

Cao Zhen sneered:

"Sima Yi had been operating in Shu for many years and had a large following."

"With this Northern Expedition, I, the Commander-in-Chief, will show the world who is the greatest commander of the Great Wei!"

"If you and Deng Ai can defeat the enemy first, it will be a great achievement."

Xiahou Ba hesitated and said:

"However, Sima Yi was no ordinary man either."

"Hmph! Five campaigns yielded no results; what god is he?"

Cao Zhen flicked his sleeve and said, "Remember: fight when you encounter an enemy, and don't wait for Sima Yi's orders!"

A few days later, the three armies parted ways.

Sima Yi and Cao Zhen led the main force out of Qishan, but the army's command was already in disarray.

One day, a scout came to report:

"A Han army supply convoy of about a thousand men has been spotted ahead."

Cao Zhen immediately gave the order:

"Send 3,000 light cavalry to intercept the grain convoy!"

Sima Yi advised against it:
"Grand Commander, Zhuge Liang's military tactics are often deceptive; this is likely a scheme to lure the enemy."

Cao Zhen was displeased:

"Prime Minister, you are being far too cautious! How could a grain convoy of a thousand men be bait?"

"If we delay the battle and allow supplies to enter the pass, wouldn't that be like raising a tiger to cause trouble later?"

Ignoring all advice, he sent troops to attack.

Jiang Wei ambushed and surrounded three thousand cavalrymen, resulting in more than half of them being killed or wounded.

Cao Zhen was furious and wanted to personally lead a large army to take revenge.

Sima Yi urgently advised:

"Grand Commander, please calm down! Now that we have fallen into the ambush, Zhuge Liang must have a backup plan."

"We should hold our camp firmly and plan for the long term."

Cao Zhen sneered:

"Does the Prime Minister expect me to stand idly by and watch the soldiers suffer casualties?"

He then gave the order:

"The entire army is ready for battle; we will engage the Qi army in a decisive battle tomorrow!"

That night, Sima Yi sat alone in his tent, and Sima Shi offered his advice:

"Father, Cao Zhen's tyranny is likely to lead to a major defeat."

Sima Yi sighed softly:
"Cao Zhen is ambitious and loves to make a name for himself, which is exactly what Zhuge Liang can take advantage of."

"All we need is..."

Before he could finish speaking, a commotion was heard outside the tent.

It turned out that Cao Zhen had mobilized troops overnight, intending to launch a surprise attack on the Han village.

Upon hearing the news, Deng Ai hurriedly came to report to Sima Yi.

"Prime Minister, the Grand Commander intends to launch a night attack."

"However, based on my observation of the celestial phenomena last night, I foresee that there will be thick fog tonight, which is certainly not a good opportunity!"

Sima Yi rushed to the central command tent and saw that Cao Zhen was already fully armed.

"Grand Commander, the fog is heavy tonight; we fear we may be ambushed."

Cao Zhen said proudly:
"The heavy fog is perfect for a surprise attack! If the Prime Minister is afraid, he can stay and guard the main camp."

Just as the argument was raging, a scout rushed in to report:

Flames were shooting into the sky in the Han army camp, indicating that something was amiss!
Cao Zhen was overjoyed:

"Heaven is helping us! It must be an internal strife within the Han army!"

Without waiting for Sima Yi's advice, he led his personal guards out of the camp.

As a result, the Wei army fought amongst themselves in the thick fog, resulting in countless deaths and injuries.

Cao Zhen himself was also wounded by an arrow.

The next day, a headcount revealed that over ten thousand soldiers had been lost.

Cao Zhen was then bedridden in his tent, and military affairs were temporarily under the command of Sima Yi.

Although Sima Yi held military power, he deliberately slowed down his advance, traveling only thirty li each day.

The generals were puzzled, so Sima Yi explained:
"The Grand Commander is wounded; we must proceed cautiously and steadily."

"Besides..."

He looked at the distant mountains and said, "Zhuge Liang has already set up defenses at Qishan. A hasty attack will surely result in heavy losses."

He secretly sent a letter to Deng Ai:
"We can slow down the advance and wait until Cao Zhen's injuries have healed before making any further moves."

Deng Ai understood immediately and thus lingered in the Ziwu Valley area without advancing.

Xiahou Ba made good progress in Xiegu, capturing several fortified camps in succession, but then received an order from Sima Yi:

"A lone army venturing too far into enemy territory risks being ambushed; it is advisable to postpone the advance."

Xiahou Ba angrily said to his deputy:
"Prime Minister Sima is clearly trying to suppress our military achievements in order to show off his own abilities!"

Disregarding military orders, they continued their advance.

Lu Xun ambushed them, and they suffered a crushing defeat.

At this point, the Wei army suffered setbacks on all three fronts, and their morale plummeted.

Rumors were rampant in the army: some said Cao Zhen was eager for quick success and instant benefits, while others said Sima Yi was deliberately hindering him.

Sima Yi went to inquire about Cao Zhen's injuries and said gently:
"Grand Commander, please rest and recuperate. Military affairs will be temporarily handled by Yi."

"Once the Governor has fully recovered, we will then make further progress."

Cao Zhen lay on the couch, a bitter smile on his face:
"Does the Prime Minister think that I am unaware of your underhanded methods?"

Sima Yi's expression remained unchanged:
"Why do you say such things, Governor? I am devoted to the country, and Heaven and Earth can bear witness to that."

After leaving the tent, Sima Yi whispered to Sima Shi:
"Order all troops to dig deep trenches and build high walls, and not to engage in battle for the time being."

"Father, wouldn't this jeopardize our chances of victory?"

Sima Yi sneered:
"I want Cao Zhen to understand that without me, Sima Yi, he can't move an inch."

"We also need to let Zhuge Liang know that this Northern Expedition is different from the past..."

Sima Yi was determined this time to fight to the death in Hanzhong.

As mentioned earlier, Sima Yi was no longer capable of launching a third nationwide mobilization.

This Northern Expedition has failed, and he will be utterly defeated, with no chance of revenge.

Therefore, he must proceed cautiously and steadily.

He prepared for this two years in advance.

The plan was to cultivate land at the front line, build fortifications, and gradually advance the battle line.

This means gradually encroaching on the Guanzhong Plain.

This is the lesson Sima Yi learned after failing five times in a row.

The west wind blew the battle flags, and an eerie atmosphere filled the Wei army camp.

Beneath the calm surface, turbulent currents were brewing.

Let me talk about two things.

Inside the main tent of the Han army at Qishan.

Zhuge Liang was discussing military matters with Lu Xun, Jiang Wei, Fei Yi, and other generals.

Suddenly, a scout rushed in with news:
"Wei general Zheng Wen has led his troops to surrender and is now outside the camp."

Zhuge Liang gently waved his feather fan:
"Call me in."

Before long, a Wei general, clad in armor, entered the tent, prostrated himself, and said:

"Zheng Wen, a criminal general, was originally a lieutenant general of the Wei Kingdom."

"I recently joined Qin Lang in leading troops, and was under Sima Yi's command."

"Unexpectedly, Yi acted out of personal bias and promoted Qin Lang to the rank of General of the Vanguard, while treating Wen as worthless."

"I feel indignant and have come to serve the Grand Commander."

Before Zhuge Liang could reply, another report came:
"Qin Lang led his troops outside the camp to challenge General Zheng Wen to battle!"

Zhuge Liang looked at Zheng Wen:
"How does Qin Lang's martial arts compare to yours?"

Zheng Wenang raised his head and said:
"Qin Lang is all talk and no action; I shall execute him on the spot!"

Zhuge Liang nodded:
"If you can kill Qin Lang, then I will believe in your sincerity."

Zheng Wen happily drew his sword, mounted his horse, and went out of the camp to meet the enemy.

Zhuge Liang led his generals to a high place to observe the battle.

But outside the camp, in front of the Wei army's formation, a general brandished his spear and shouted:
"The traitors stole my warhorse and brought it here; return it to me as soon as possible!"

Having said that, he went straight to Zheng Wen.

Zheng Wen rode up and brandished his sword to greet him.

The two generals clashed for only one exchange before Zheng Wen swiftly brought down his blade, beheading Qin Lang.

The Wei army scattered in panic, and Zheng Wen returned to camp victorious with the enemy's head in hand.

Inside the tent,

Zhuge Liang sat upright in his commander's seat, his face suddenly darkening, and he burst into a rage:
"Guards! Take Zheng Wen out and execute him!"

Zheng Wen was shocked and pale:

"Why was this young general executed for his meritorious service?"

Zhuge Liang said sternly:

“I have known Qin Lang for many years! The one you killed was definitely not Qin Lang.”

"How dare you, you coward, bully me!"

Zheng Wen was sweating profusely and knelt down to plead:
"This is indeed Qin Lang's younger brother, Qin Ming. I did not mean to deceive the Grand Commander."

"It was Prime Minister Sima who taught me to do this!"

Zhuge Liang sneered:
"Sima Yi ordered you to feign surrender in order to act as an inside agent, but how could you possibly fool me!"

"If you don't tell the truth, I'll cut off your head right now!"

Zheng Wen knew his plan had failed, and tearfully begged for his life:
"General, you are wise! It was indeed Sima Yi who ordered me to feign surrender."

"We agreed to use the fire as a signal to coordinate an attack from within and without."

Zhuge Liang's expression softened slightly:
"Since you wish to live, you may write a letter and instruct Sima Yi to come and raid your camp."

"If you capture Sima Yi, it will be your achievement, and you should be given an important position."

Zheng Wen had no choice but to write a letter and present it to Kongming.

The book says:

"Now that Zhuge Liang has trusted me, at the second watch tomorrow night, light a fire in the camp as a signal."

"We should raid the camp immediately; I will act as an inside agent."

After reading it, Zhuge Liang ordered Zheng Wen to supervise it.

Jiang Wei asked:

"The governor has been in Jiaozhou for many years, but has recently returned to Guanzhong. How could he have known Qin Lang for so many years?"

Zhuge Liang shook his head and said:
"I do not know this person."

Everyone was taken aback and asked Zhuge Liang.

If you don't know each other, why did you say you did?

Was it simply to bluff Zheng Wen?
Lu Xun, sitting to the side, explained with a smile:
"...Sima Yi was extremely cautious in his use of people."

"If Qin Lang is truly promoted to General, he must be a valiant warrior. How could he be cut down in a single exchange?"

Therefore, it is known that the one who was beheaded was not the real Qin Lang, and Zheng Wen must have been feigning surrender.

All the generals were convinced:

"The Grand Commander's wisdom is boundless!"

Zhuge Liang then summoned Jiang Wei and Lu Xun for a secret meeting:
"Since Sima Yi has used a feigned surrender tactic, I will play along."

“Boyue can lead one army to ambush on the left side of the camp, and Boyan can lead one army to ambush on the right side of the camp.”

"Once the Wei army enters the camp, light a fire as a signal and attack from both sides."

The generals accepted the order and departed.

Zhuge Liang gently waved his feather fan and summoned another trusted soldier.

He whispered something in my ear, like this and that.

The soldier received the order, carried a secret letter, and sneaked towards Wei Village under cover of night.

Inside the central command tent of the Wei camp, Sima Yi was studying military texts.

Suddenly, a personal guard came to report:

“We captured a Han army spy who claimed to have important business to discuss with the Prime Minister.”

Sima Yi raised an eyebrow:
"Bring it in."

The soldier entered the tent and immediately bowed.
“I am originally from Shu, but I have drifted to the Central Plains and am from the same hometown as General Zheng Wen.”

"General Zheng has been appointed as the vanguard by Zhuge Liang, and has specially entrusted a humble servant to present a letter to the Prime Minister."

After speaking, he presented the secret letter.

Sima Yi unfolded the letter and read it carefully. He saw that it read:
"Wen was fortunate to gain Kongming's trust and was appointed as the vanguard."

"Tomorrow evening, I am willing to light a fire as a signal to act as an inside agent for the Prime Minister."

"We beg you to bring a large army to raid our camp and achieve great success together."

The handwriting is indeed identical to Zheng Wenshu's previous letters.

Sima Yi repeatedly questioned:
Has Zheng Wen truly gained Zhuge Liang's trust?

The sergeant calmly replied:

"General Zheng was feigning surrender, but now that Kongming's suspicions are fading, this is the perfect opportunity."

"Moreover, the Prime Minister treats Qin Lang well but neglects General Zheng, so the general often harbors resentment."

"Zhuge Liang had no reason to doubt it."

Sima Yi pondered for a moment, then suddenly offered wine and food:

"Go back and tell Zheng Wen that the appointed time is the second watch of the night today."

"I will personally lead a large army to meet you."

"If this great undertaking succeeds, a great reward will be given."

The soldier bid farewell and returned to Shu Village that very night to report to Kongming.

Upon hearing this, Zhuge Liang clapped his hands and laughed, then took up his sword and performed the ritual of ascending the altar to pray for wind.

He pointed the Seven Star Sword into the air and muttered incantations.

After the prayer, he summoned the generals to receive his orders:

"Li Yan and Wei Yan led an army to ambush on the left side of the camp."

"Pang De and Ma Dai led an army to lie in ambush on the right side of the camp."

"Liu Pan led an army to cut off their retreat."

"Jiang Wei and Lu Xun each led their elite troops, and once the Wei army entered the camp, they surrounded it from all sides."

He then summoned Guan Xing and Zhang Bao and gave them instructions:
"You two each lead three thousand archers and lie in ambush on both sides of the gate."

"Once half of the Wei army has marched through, all ten thousand crossbows will be fired at once."

The allocation has been determined.

Kongming led several dozen of his personal guards to a high mountain to observe the battle.

Meanwhile, Sima Yi wanted to personally lead a large army to raid the camp, but his eldest son, Sima Shi, advised against it:

Why would Father personally enter such an important place based on a mere piece of paper?

"What should we do if there is any oversight or mishap?"

"It would be better to send another general ahead, with Father following behind."

Sima Yi agreed and ordered Qin Lang to lead 10,000 soldiers as the vanguard, while he himself led the main army to provide support.

At the first watch of the night, the moon shone as brightly as day.

As the second watch approached, dark clouds suddenly gathered from all sides.

Black mist filled the sky, and no one could be seen on the other side.

Sima Yi was overjoyed and said:

"Heaven is on my side!"

He then ordered his soldiers to gag themselves and their horses to restrain themselves, and they charged straight ahead.

Qin Lang led ten thousand cavalrymen to charge straight into the Han camp.

The gate to the stockade was ajar, but there were no guards present.

Qin Lang realized he had fallen into a trap and hastily ordered his troops to retreat.

Suddenly, torches blazed all around, and shouts shook the heavens:
Li Yan and Wei Yan charged out from the left flank.

Pang De and Ma Dai charged in from the right flank, surrounding the Wei army.

Qin Lang fought desperately with his spear, unable to break through the encirclement.

At this moment, Sima Yi saw flames soaring into the sky in the camp and assumed that Zheng Wen had succeeded, so he hurriedly ordered his troops to come to the rescue.

Just as they reached the gate of the village, a horn suddenly sounded, and the sound of drums and horns filled the air:

With Liao Hua on the left and Jiang Wei on the right, two elite troops charged out.

It turned out that Jiang Wei had already divided his troops and laid an ambush, waiting for Sima Yi.

Guan Xing and Zhang Bao unleashed a barrage of arrows, which flew like locusts.

The Wei army was thrown into chaos, trampling each other in the process.

Sima Yi hurriedly ordered a retreat, but Liu Pan blocked their way back.

Qin Lang was surrounded, and Lu Xun commanded the Han soldiers to encircle him layer by layer.

Qin Lang fought his way through the enemy lines, sustaining several arrow wounds, just as Jiang Wei charged in with his spear.

The two generals fought for less than ten rounds before Qin Lang's strength gave out.

He was killed by Jiang Wei with a single spear thrust.

Of the ten thousand soldiers he led, eight or nine out of ten were wounded, and the rest scattered and fled.

Seeing that the situation was hopeless, Sima Yi abandoned his armor and fled into the chaos of the army.

Suddenly, Sima Shi led his troops to their rescue, and the father and son worked together to break through the encirclement.

Upon returning to camp and taking stock, they found that they had lost over ten thousand soldiers.

General Qin Lang was killed in battle, and countless supplies and equipment were lost.

Sima Yi looked up to the sky and sighed:
"I have fallen for Zhuge Liang's trap again!"

High on the mountain, Zhuge Liang, having finished observing the battle, gently waved his feather fan:
"After this defeat, Sima Yi dares not venture out lightly for the time being."

He then ordered the troops to withdraw and rewarded the army.

After this battle, the Wei army's morale was completely crushed, and Sima Yi became even more determined to hold his ground and not come out.

Sima Yi returned to the camp, removed his helmet, and said to the men:
"Zhuge Liang is so wise that he is almost supernatural; we cannot fight him head-on."

"Now I have decided on the strategy of military farming, which is to cultivate land in Hanzhong and then build deep moats and high walls."

"We will slowly erode the land in Guanzhong, and sooner or later we will be able to recover the Central Plains."

The two armies were locked in a stalemate at Qishan, and the battle situation temporarily reached a deadlock.

Meanwhile, Zhuge Liang was secretly making arrangements, preparing for his next brilliant move.

……

(End of this chapter)