As an official, what's wrong with raising a few monsters?

Chapter 323 Controlling others without being controlled by them

The three passes are easy to defend but difficult to attack; under normal conditions, a strong attack would be very difficult.

Even with only a thousand soldiers remaining, the Qian Yuan army still expended a great deal of effort.

It's easy to imagine how difficult it would be to overcome this hurdle if the main force were preserved.

Even if a large force is sent to launch a strong attack on Xingtai Pass, as long as Bai Junxin defends for a period of time, the other two passes can send reinforcements to support him.

The three passes in the north have stood for so many years for a reason.

As the art of war says: A skillful strategist controls others, rather than being controlled by them.

It means to make reasonable use of one's own conditions and intelligence to manipulate others, make them fall into one's own rhythm, and make them act according to one's own expectations, so as to benefit one's own battlefield or rhythm, seize the initiative, put them on the defensive, and at the same time avoid being overtaken by the enemy and maintain one's own freedom of action.

Mingchen may not have remembered many of the wisdoms of the ancients, but he remembered this one very well.

In essence, the battlefield is nothing more than a mixture of illusion and reality.

An army cannot be a monolithic entity; there are strong and weak parts.

Strength is real, weakness is illusory.

Ultimately, by strategically deploying troops, protecting one's own weaknesses, and then attacking the enemy's weaknesses with one's own strengths, one can achieve victory in every battle.

Mingchen and Lingyu used the rout and various false rumors to lure Bai Junxin's main force into an ambush and defeat them.

The enemy's forces were brought out of hiding, losing their advantage of terrain and timing, and were no match for our main force, which was lying in ambush in a state of rest and fatigue.

At the same time, they used their strength to attack the enemy's weakness, and used their main force to defeat the weak garrison at Xingtai Pass, ultimately achieving this seemingly impossible victory.

All along, it was Mingchen who was directing the enemy, keeping them busy whether they were actively or passively running around, and making them do things according to his plan.

Commanding an army in battle, when you get back to the basics, is really just this.

Time flies, and Mingchen gradually transformed from a scholar who had never experienced war into a qualified general.

Control others, not be controlled by them.

This applies not only to the battlefield, but to all aspects of life.

Mingchen had always been accustomed to using this way of thinking to deal with problems; it was ingrained in his very being.

Even the troop deployment from the other two passes was within his expectations.

However... there are some discrepancies.

"what?"

"Withdrawn?"

"Libu Pass didn't send any reinforcements at all?"

The night passed quickly; the daytime was filled with the intensity of war, but this night was unusually peaceful.

Mingchen's ambushes at both locations failed to find the person he was waiting for.

Upon hearing the information from his subordinate general, Mingchen narrowed his eyes.

The other party didn't even try to probe before withdrawing, which was beyond his expectations.

This is actually a good thing.

Although no one was ambushed.

However, our army is exhausted. If the enemy launches a strong attack, even if we defend the city, it will still consume a lot of our strength.

Ultimately, his goal was simply to secure Xingtai Pass.

"Generals, you've worked hard. Go and rest now."

"Now that we have successfully defended Xingtai Pass, you have done a great service!"

"Yes!"

"Thank you, Master Ming!"

After the two left, Mingchen lowered his eyes and murmured softly, "Wasn't that a little too conservative?"

Mingchen actually gave the enemy commander a high evaluation.

It was because of this commander that Mingchen was unable to determine whether the plan to seize Xingtai Pass could be realized.

In retrospect, it seems we overestimated them.

The line between caution and timidity is blurred.

General Deng seems to have veered towards cowardice.

Such people are conservative, cautious, and suspicious.

He narrowed his eyes, his thoughts lingering.

This expedition will only have one chance to fire a single shot.

Only Bai Junxin, an aggressive general who had a grudge against Deng Yingcheng, had this opportunity.

By capturing Xingtai Pass and driving in this crucial nail, Mingchen and Lingyu had already accomplished their strategic objective.

The two have been exposed, and all their conspiracies have come to light. There will never be a better opportunity again.

Once Bei Lie receives the news, they will inevitably send in generals and elite troops of equal rank to confront them.

Facing two impregnable passes, taking them down would be extremely difficult.

However, he has always been audacious and greedy, wanting more.

"Lord Ming, you should go and take a look."

As Mingchen's mind raced, a general suddenly strode over and shouted urgently at him, "General Ling wants to kill those who surrender!"

"Kill those who surrender?"

Mingchen frowned upon hearing this.

The circumstances surrounding the killing of surrendered soldiers are unknown.

This is the Central Plains civilization. Thousands of years ago, we were one country and shared common ancestors.

They are not nomadic barbarians.

In a direct confrontation on the battlefield, if one is outmatched in skill, dying on the battlefield is only to be expected.

But since they have laid down their weapons and armor and surrendered, no matter how they are punished, their lives must be spared.

To kill someone after they surrender is murder.

Previously, when the Northern Lie captured surrendered soldiers from the Qian Yuan clan, they did not kill them.

If one party breaks an unspoken rule, it will inevitably lead to negative consequences in the future.

If you, Qian Yuan, kill those who surrender, then I, Bei Lie, will kill them too.

No one should surrender anymore. The feud is over. Let's fight to the very end!

"Lord Ming?! You must go and see!"

This general is loyal, and he respects Ling Yu and Ming Chen.

But in his mind, this was not the right thing to do.

Seeing Mingchen in a daze, he kept calling out again.

Mingchen lowered his eyes, not in a hurry, and asked, "General, I remember your name is Zheng Jun, right?"

This man was a vanguard general in charge of five hundred men, a position that was neither high nor low.

She was at a position where she could barely speak to Mingchen.

"Uh...yes!"

"Is your hometown Jiqu?"

"Yes, Lord Ming, I went with you and General Ling to attack Xiaoyao City back then!"

The general was about thirty years old, much older than Mingchen, but he held Mingchen in high esteem.

The things Mingchen has done, his reputation... are enough for these people to overlook his age.

Mingchen looked him over and asked, "How many years have you been in the army?"

Zheng Jun scratched the back of his head and chuckled dryly, "It's been more than ten years."

Not everyone is as unstoppable and soars to great heights as Ming Chen and Ling Yu.

Zheng Jun had served diligently in the army for over ten years, but had originally intended to waste his time in Ji Qu. Later, seeing Xiao Xinyue establish her capital and declare herself emperor, and implement military reforms, he seized the opportunity, fought bravely, and earned some military merits, eventually becoming a general of moderate rank.

Do you have children?

Mingchen's question about the family tree puzzled Zheng Jun.

However, given the vast difference in their social statuses, he honestly replied, "Sir, I have three children, two boys and one girl, the eldest of whom is already twelve years old."

Upon hearing this, Mingchen sighed softly, "Twelve already... not young anymore."

He wasn't from the privileged class, had children and family to support, and had served in the military for over ten years, demonstrating sufficient loyalty... all these conditions were suitable.
Mingchen glanced at him twice, then lowered his voice: "General Zheng, I have a rather dangerous mission to give you."

"If this matter succeeds, it will greatly benefit my Qian Yuan. You will be the one who makes the greatest contribution, and you will surely be remembered in history, granted a noble title, and your name will last for generations!"

"what?!"

Upon hearing this, Zheng Jun shuddered, and his breathing became uncontrollably heavy.

He realized this was an opportunity.

Mingchen is about to entrust him with a very important task.

Mingchen spoke calmly, and continued, "Even if it doesn't work out, I will personally petition His Majesty to treat your family well. I will personally supervise and educate your child. I can't guarantee he will become successful, but I can at least ensure his lifelong wealth and honor."

"If you don't believe me, I can write you a written agreement, and you can send it home."

"how?"

As soon as he finished speaking, Zheng Jun suddenly raised his head without the slightest hesitation, looking directly at Ming Chen: "Lord Ming, just tell me what you want me to do. I'm ready to brave any danger ahead!"

Mingchen's second half of his sentence only mentioned the advantages, without mentioning any disadvantages.

But he knew exactly what Mingchen meant.

This matter is not just somewhat dangerous, but extremely dangerous.

It's highly unlikely to work.

If it doesn't work, he will die.

but……

Without risk, how can there be wealth and prosperity?
For someone like him, life isn't actually the most important thing in life.

There's also family, country, and children.

He was not from a wealthy or noble family, and he had no connections to help him rise through the ranks. With the restoration of the new dynasty, the positions of power and wealth were vacant, and if he wanted them, he would have to fight tooth and nail.

Being a soldier is inherently a life-or-death situation; he never knew when he might die on the battlefield, so the outcome didn't matter.

Besides, even if he fails, with Mingchen's promise, he can die in peace.

This is a Duke, the most esteemed Duke of the new dynasty.

With his protection, how could his children and his family not prosper?
Even if Mingchen asked him to slit his own throat right now, he wouldn't hesitate for a second.

He should also thank Mingchen for giving him this dangerous opportunity; many people want to risk their lives but don't have the connections!
"No need for any written agreement, I trust you!"

Mingchen is a habitual liar; his reputation on the Xiongnu grasslands is so low that he can't even get a shared bike scanned.

However, within the Qian Yuan territory, especially in the southwest, his reputation was unparalleled, second only to Emperor Xiao Xinyue. His verbal promises were baseless, yet Zheng Jun still believed him.

"Is there anything you want to remind me of?"

"no!"

"it is good!"

"That's awesome, a true hero!"

Mingchen smiled upon hearing this and gently patted his shoulder: "If you return safely, remember to come to my residence and have a drink with me!"

Does Lord Ming mean he considers him a friend?
Zheng Jun said excitedly, "Thank you, sir."

His life has been worthwhile.

For a moment, he almost forgot his original purpose in coming to find Mingchen.

"I'll tell you something in a little while..."

……

"Ling Yu, we have all laid down our weapons and surrendered!"

"What do you mean?!"

"Why are you still tying us up?!"

"You despicable scoundrel! You promised that those who surrender would not be killed, but you broke your promise!"

"Ling Yu, you'll die a horrible death!!!"

"If I had known this would happen, I should have fought you cunning villains to the death!"

"Waaah, General Ling, please spare my life! I have a mother to support..."

……

Within a single day, the strategic pass changed hands.

The city was in some chaos, and everything needed to be rebuilt.

In the very center of the square, hundreds of robust Northern Army soldiers, shirtless and bound by ropes, knelt in the middle of the square.

They were disheveled, but their eyes were bloodshot and their faces were contorted with rage as they cursed at the woman not far away.

The woman was petite and graceful, with a unique and captivating beauty.

But at this moment, in the eyes of these Northern Lie people, there was no beauty whatsoever; they were like living demons, filled only with resentment and hatred.

"drop?"

Did you lower your prices at the beginning?

"Didn't you surrender because my army breached the city and there was no hope of defending it?"

"It was a last resort!"

"What right do you have to talk to me?"

Ling Yu was unusually calm and taciturn.

He simply looked down at the Northern Lie people with a cold expression, his eyes seemingly overflowing with killing intent.

She seemed to be in a strange state ever since the battle began.

She hadn't fought Bei Lie for a very long time, but the suppressed hatred could never be extinguished, and it would all erupt at certain moments.

She had almost forgotten her childhood memories, but she could never forget how the Northern Army passed through, turning her hometown, that quiet and peaceful village, into ruins in a single day.

A ferocious mother, a father cut in half, a younger brother, a younger sister...

That image was etched deep in her memory, and she could never forget it.

Looking at the faces of the Bei Lie people, she could almost picture how those hideous faces had trampled on her family.

She would take her anger out on all the soldiers of Beilie.

She will not forgive anyone.

She usually appears calm, but she is actually very emotional.

Great love, and great hate.

"I said, after the city falls, leave no one alive!!!"

As a general, Ling Yu naturally knew that killing surrendered soldiers was an ominous sign.

Her master had taught her not to kill surrendered soldiers unless absolutely necessary.

But in her view, were these people considered surrendered soldiers?
Didn't they fight back bravely at the beginning?
Seeing that they were no match for the enemy, they had no choice but to surrender!

What kind of surrendered soldier is he?
Even if they don't surrender, Qian Yuan can still win!

She made it clear from the beginning that if they didn't surrender, no one would be spared after the city fell.

Bei Lie chose to hold his ground, so he should pay the price.

Words carry weight if not acted upon.

There's no point in saying the same thing again.

Two or three hundred Northern Martyrs, killing them is no big deal!
This was the reason she gave herself.

It doesn't matter what others think or think; she only needs to convince her own heart.

"Ling Yu!!! You'll die a horrible death!!!"

"No...no, General Ling, please, spare me!"

"Ling Yu, the Great General will avenge me!"

"You just wait!!"

"Woooooooo..."

……

Ling Yu's words received no response.

These surrendered soldiers knew there was no way to respond.

But in any case, they all surrendered, surrendering in order to save their lives.

I have laid down the knife that could have harmed you, and I accept whatever punishment you may give me, but you cannot take my life.

They cried out; some pleaded and wept, some vehemently cursed, and some viciously swore…

All aspects of human life are on full display.

And at this moment,
"General Ling, you mustn't!!!"

Suddenly, a cry of surprise came from not far away.

A general, around thirty years old, rushed over, shouting as he ran.

His voice was loud enough for Ling Yu, the Qian Yuan generals, the Qian Yuan soldiers, and the surrendered Bei Lie soldiers in the arena to hear.

In such public settings, try not to question your superiors or oppose their suggestions.

Even if the leader is wrong, you should talk to him privately in a gentle and considerate way.

Otherwise, it would greatly damage the leader's authority.

Your boss will hold a grudge against you, and even if they know they are wrong, they are unlikely to listen to your advice.

This is why everyone present remained silent and listened only to Ling Yu's words.

However, someone ran up and broke the deadlock.

Both the people on Qian Yuan's side and the surrendered soldiers from Bei Lie's side were somewhat bewildered when they saw this person.

Ling Yu frowned slightly and looked at the person who had just arrived: "Are you Zheng Jun?"

She certainly knew and understood her subordinates.

This person is steady and reliable; it hasn't been easy for him to get where he is today.

She didn't quite understand why this person would jump out to oppose her at this time.

"Soldiers are expected to obey orders above all else. If a subordinate rebels against his superior, do you know what crime that is?"

She doesn't act like a big leader at all, and she doesn't really care about saving face.

However, she was not in a stable mood at the moment, so she did not give Zheng Jun a friendly look when he openly stopped her.

Although Ling Yu is a woman, she has served as a general for many years and enjoys extremely high prestige and imposing presence in the army.

After being glared at by her with displeasure, Zheng Jun felt a chill run down his spine and felt immense pressure.

But he gritted his teeth, raised his head, and faced Ling Yu directly, saying, "General, killing surrendered soldiers is an ominous sign!"

“The enemy soldiers are also brave warriors. Since they have abandoned their dignity and surrendered to us, we should spare their lives.”

"They may work as laborers and build the city walls, but they must not die!"

"Otherwise, how will outsiders view me, Qian Yuan, in the future?"

"How can our great nation of Qian Yuan lack the capacity to tolerate others?!"

"If no one surrenders to me in the future, we will suffer even more casualties."

Hearing Zheng Jun shout.

The other soldiers kept their eyes down, not uttering a single word.

The surrendered soldiers below stared at him blankly.

Many things are neither right nor wrong; one's perspective is determined by one's position. They have different stances and are enemies by nature.

For the first time, they encountered an enemy general who stood on their side and spoke in their favor.

For a moment, my nose felt a little sore, and my face was full of gratitude.

Ling Yu frowned slightly, her thoughts racing.

Suddenly, a familiar voice came from beside her: "Sister, pretend to be angry now and argue with him."

As if a clear spring had flowed through her heart, Ling Yu shuddered and instantly became fully awake.

The murderous aura, rage, and tyranny from just moments ago seemed to vanish in an instant.

She unconsciously looked up and gazed in one direction.

The person who was equally distinguished, of extraordinary status, and most important to her, stood at the edge of the square like an insignificant soldier, smiling at her.

Besides his master, only this person in the world could restrain the enraged and tyrannical Ling Yu.

"so what?!"

Ling Yu wasn't good at acting; she simply kept a straight face and coldly said to Zheng Jun, "There's no need to surrender. I can still defeat the Northern Fierce enemy army with honor and integrity."

How confident, how arrogant!

But she is Ling Yu, the invincible star of Qian Yuan, shining brightly.

She hasn't fallen yet, so she has the right to say such things.

Her words felt like a series of slaps to the faces of the surrendered soldiers, but they couldn't find any words to refute them.

(End of this chapter)