Book Synopsis
Book Tags
Donation Rankings
Comment
0 Comments
You May Also Like
墨書 Inktalez
Some things can be discussed privately, but when in front of others, one must consider the implications of their words. At this moment, Wang He was already feeling troubled, and upon seeing Luzi's genuine curiosity about the reasons behind it, they quickly reached an understanding. He waved his hand to dismiss the onlookers outside and then turned to take down the Bamboo Slip from the table. Looking at the letter in his hand, he couldn't help but let out a long sigh.
"This is an Imperial Command! I have no choice but to act according to the orders! The answers are all in this letter; General Lu should read it thoroughly before we discuss further."
Luzi nodded and took the Bamboo Slip, untying it to see what it contained. There was only one person who could influence the situation of the Qin Army! Indeed, this letter was a battle order personally issued by Zhao Xiang Wang, and there was not a hint of negotiation in its tone. The order stated that Wang He must launch a full-scale attack immediately and ensure that the Zhao Army was driven into Taihang Mountain before late December.
As the saying goes, Imperial Commands are hard to defy! An order is an order! And since this is an Imperial Command, it cannot be questioned!
A Lord of the Nation has no obligation to explain any strategic intentions to anyone. As the Commander of the army, one can only obey! As for why there must be a winter offensive instead of waiting until spring next year, King Qin had no obligation to inform his ministers of such reasons.
It is well known that conducting military operations in winter is fraught with difficulties. Unless absolutely necessary, battle orders are typically issued no earlier than after spring arrives next year. At this time, while it is true that the Zhao Army has recently suffered defeat and that the Qin Army's offensive is indeed swift, there are underlying reasons for this situation. Moreover, the campaign to reclaim Shangdang Region did not fundamentally harm the Zhao Army. Currently, on the opposite bank of the river, there are at least two hundred thousand Zhao troops stationed.
Even if the Qin Army successfully establishes a foothold, they are unlikely to hold it!
Furthermore, the West Rampart and several mountain strongholds established by the Zhao Army at the beginning of the year have yet to be captured. These positions are located well behind the main forces of the Qin Army and can be likened to Lian Po's teeth remaining intact. If the Zhao Army abandons the Danhe Defense Line for a large-scale river crossing operation, these unseized strongholds will play a crucial role.
Without Zhao Army's involvement, Shangdang Region would not be such a tough nut to crack. However, due to Zhao's intervention, the situation has become complex, not including other Feudal States waiting for news. Once one side suffers a setback, subsequent attacks will follow swiftly.
Luzi looked up at Wang He and felt a wave of sadness wash over him. He remembered when the army first arrived in Shangdang; Old General was not this aged. Now it seemed that just a month had passed, yet it felt like he hadn't seen him for over ten years. He handed back the Royal Decree and said, "Alas! I understand Left Minister's difficulties, but I still believe that if we continue fighting like this, we might end up throwing all our main forces into Dan River."
But what good does knowing do!? Who can change the current situation?
Wang He smiled bitterly and shook his head as he placed the Bamboo Slip back down. "Neither fighting nor refraining from fighting is an option. The Imperial Command is here, with a deadline to breach Zhao Army's Danhe Defense Line. If you were in my position, General Lu, how would you handle this?"
What can be done at this moment!? At that time, it was all about buying time! Only by spending a lot of time waiting could the unfavorable situation of the Qin Army be completely turned around. But the current problem is precisely the lack of time, as no one dares to wait any longer!
The Qin King is waiting for news; he has no interest in seeing the flowers bloom along the Dan River next spring. By then, it would not be as simple as changing generals at the last minute; it might even be possible that he would have to send his head back alone!
Waiting one day or two days is still waiting! In any case, they cannot use the old methods to cross the river! If all the elite troops of the Qin Army were to perish in the Dan Shui River, they would never see the day of unification in China!
Luzi made up his mind and let out a heavy "hmph." He insisted that the Qin Army suspend the Crossing Battle, deciding that they could not continue fighting like this! After his repeated insistence, Wang He finally nodded in agreement. As the order for the entire army to cease attacks and rest was transmitted, both of them suddenly fell silent.
What should be done next!? Should they wait for the Dan Shui River to dry up, or should a strong wind come and blow away the Zhao Army across the way? Unless a miracle occurs, the battle will continue as it is.
"Sigh!" Wang He suddenly sighed deeply and muttered, "I am getting too old! These past few days, I feel like my mind is sluggish! If this battle can end smoothly, I might as well retire back home!"
This was just a joke and not meant to be taken seriously. Luzi shook his head with a smile and did not respond. Besides, Old General is only fifty years old this year; how can he talk about being too old? At this moment, "old" does not refer to physical decline but rather to feeling weary at heart! As long as they can break through the current unfavorable situation, there may not even be thoughts of retirement in another ten years!
Thinking about his physical condition, Luzi immediately believed in Xiao Yu'er, who had been following him closely. To accompany the army to the Dan Shui River frontlines, this descendant of the Shennong Family had already disguised herself as a handsome young man. He remembered that since she entered the Main Tent, she had been sizing up Old General Wang He across from her. She had tried to speak several times but had not succeeded; just earlier when she went out, she was still observing Old General's complexion from time to time.
With this in mind, Luzi also began to pay attention to Wang He's complexion. A brief glance revealed that Old General's complexion was not good. His face was pale with red ears, and his dry skin showed more wrinkles. No wonder upon seeing him one would feel that he seemed older; it was probably due to prolonged anxiety and lack of sleep! Those who face major issues often find themselves feeling restless without realizing it. This uncontrollable inner turmoil is detrimental to the overall situation.
"Left Minister! My survival this time relies entirely on the divine doctor summoned back by Wang Jian. This person has exceptional medical skills and can bring people back from death. Otherwise... otherwise, should we let her check your pulse?"
As Commander, Wang He naturally understood Luzi's injuries very well and did not doubt these words. According to feedback from returning surgeons, it would be a miracle if General Lu could survive until the end of the year. But miracles do happen! Here was Luzi, who had been determined to have little time left, sitting here just fine!
"Oh! Is that so? Quickly... quickly invite her in!" Wang He stood up to stretch his body and impatiently called out: "Where is the divine doctor!? Hurry and bring her in!"
Upon receiving the greeting, Xiao Yu'er hurriedly walked into the tent and immediately understood from Luzi's gaze. Smiling, he nodded and said, "Old General's complexion is dry and yellow, clearly lacking moisture. If this continues, it could be detrimental to his health. The Scoundrel is the divine physician beside you; a little adjustment from him could lead to recovery. However... it might require some blood!"
Since Luzi agreed to the marriage, he had often discussed with Xiao Yu'er the importance of etiquette. The principle that humility leads to progress was naturally a key point, as it is among gentlemen in China. At this moment, seeing that this person spoke without any hint of humility, he quickly glanced at Old General's face to check for any signs of displeasure.
Comment 0 Comment Count