As for Wuyang,
This foreign princess,
Although marrying into their household seemed like an honor, Wang Yan still harbored some doubts deep inside.
If she truly had any ulterior motives, they had to be nipped in the bud.
At this moment, Wuyang's heart was in turmoil, caught in an intense struggle.
"What should I do?"
"Now that I have married my husband, should I follow my father's orders?"
"But if I do that, I fear I will be condemned as a poisonous woman for all eternity."
Yunzhong City
Military Governor's Mansion
"Supreme General!"
"The army's provisions have been prepared for ten days."
"With just one command, the entire army can mobilize at once."
Zhang Han clasped his hands and reported.
Inside the grand hall of the military governor's mansion,
All the generals were gathered, their expressions solemn.
"Bring the map," Zhao Feng ordered.
"Yes, General!"
Zhang Ming responded immediately.
The next moment, Han Chenyan and several guards carried in a large map, spreading it across the hall.
This map depicted the territory of Wei.
Zhao Feng slowly rose and walked toward it.
The assembled generals also stood up, moving closer to examine the map.
"Yunzhong City is closest to Yan State."
"But just fifty miles south lies Wei."
"Since the fall of Zhao, Wei Wuji has been gathering and training troops, aggressively expanding his military."
"After I established the Wuan Military Camp, Wei Wuji also stationed a heavy garrison at Yanggao City along the border."
"According to intelligence, over 150,000 soldiers are stationed there."
"Their grain supplies are ample, and the city defenses have been reinforced by Wei Wuji himself."
Zhao Feng spoke slowly.
The generals all nodded.
Ever since they stationed themselves in Yunzhong City, they had been closely monitoring intelligence on Wei.
After all, Wei Wuji was well aware that the Wuan Military Camp's establishment in Yunzhong City was a direct threat to his nation, and he would be highly vigilant in defending against it.
"Supreme General," Zhang Han spoke gravely.
"Yanggao City has such a strong garrison. It's clear Wei Wuji intends to hold his ground and resist at all costs."
"Taking the city won't be easy."
Zhao Feng remained calm.
"Zhang Ming, tell the generals about the Yanggao City commander."
Zhang Ming immediately stepped forward and pulled out a scroll.
"Yanggao City is defended by General Long Zhang, son of the former Wei Supreme General Long Jia."
"Two years ago, Wei Wuji personally invited him out of retirement to serve as Supreme General and guard the border."
"In addition, he commands several deputy generals personally selected by Wei Wuji, all of them rising stars in Wei's military with strong leadership skills."
"Inside Yanggao City,"
"There are 50,000 elite Wei soldiers and 100,000 newly trained troops."
"Apart from Yanggao City's 150,000-man garrison, another 250,000 troops are stationed further west at Heluo City to guard against Hangu Pass."
"These forces are led by Pang Wu, a descendant of the former Wei Supreme General Pang Juan."
"This makes a total of 400,000 troops along Wei's borders."
"Additionally, another 200,000 troops are stationed in Wei's capital, Daliang City, excluding the 50,000 elite guards and the private armies of Wei's nobility."
"Furthermore, Yanggao City has stockpiled enough provisions to sustain 150,000 troops for an entire year, all of which were gathered under Wei Wuji's orders."
Zhang Ming reported the entire military composition of Wei.
There was no doubt.
This intelligence was not only obtained through Qin's court but also Zhao Feng's Yan Court network.
Over the past few years, Yan Court had expanded rapidly, and the information gathered from the noble circles of other states through the Drunken Immortal Tavern had been invaluable.
"Generals,"
"This is Yanggao City's situation."
"What are your thoughts?" Zhao Feng asked with a faint smile.
"Before hearing this information,"
"I initially believed we could use our superior numbers to divide our forces, bypass Yunzhong City, and cut off Yanggao City's supply lines to force their army into open battle."
"But now, it's clear..."
"Wei Wuji has already anticipated this and intends to drag the conflict out, waiting for a shift in the situation."
"Trying to force them into a field battle is impossible," Li You said gravely.
"Wei Wuji is a seasoned general who has served across multiple reigns. His command ability is beyond doubt. Anything we can think of, he has already considered."
Zhao Feng chuckled.
"Supreme General,"
"I have a question," Tu Sui interjected.
"Speak."
"When Wei first launched an attack on Qin, we now have a justified reason to retaliate. Wei is isolated with no allies. What does Wei Wuji gain by stalling?"
"Does he truly believe another state will come to Wei's aid?"
Tu Sui was confused.
"There is one," Zhao Feng said with certainty.
All the generals turned to look at him.
"Chu State."
"Chu? Would they dare?" Tu Sui was stunned.
"Hah."
"Between nations, it's all about interests."
"Qin has already conquered two states. It's impossible for Chu not to be tempted."
"However,"
"Whether or not Chu decides to intervene is beyond our concern. The King will handle that matter."
"Our task is to break Wei's defenses and destroy their kingdom."
Zhao Feng's voice was firm.
"Supreme General, please issue the command!"
"We are ready to follow you to battle!"
The entire hall echoed as three chief generals and six deputy generals all pledged their allegiance to Zhao Feng.
They had absolute faith in him.
After all, Zhao Feng was known as an undefeated general since his enlistment.
"The King's official decree states we will attack Wei in two months, but in reality, we move in one month."
"There are only two days left before that deadline."
"Yanggao City, though fortified by Wei Wuji and garrisoned with a large force, is not invincible."
Zhao Feng gazed at the gathered generals, his decision already made.
"Supreme General!"
"Please allow me to lead the charge!" Li You immediately stepped forward.
This would be the Wuan Camp's first battle since its establishment, and he was determined to seize this opportunity to prove himself.
Many in the military still questioned his ability, and he knew he could only earn their respect through action.
"To take Yanggao City,"
"There is no other strategy."
"We must storm it head-on."
"Pass my command!"
"Tomorrow night, the army will break camp and march south into Wei!"
Zhao Feng's voice was resolute.
"We obey!" The generals roared in unison.
"Good."
"Return to your stations and make preparations," Zhao Feng waved his hand.
"Yes, Supreme General!"
The generals saluted and exited the hall.
Zhao Feng's gaze remained fixed on the map.
"Wei Wuji..."
"You know Wei has no chance against Qin."
"Is this your final, desperate struggle?"
Staring at the map and the various secret reports on Wei from Yan Court, Zhao Feng couldn't help but reveal a faint smile.
It was not a smile for the enemy, but one for a worthy adversary.
Wei Wuji.
Though an enemy, he could still be considered a kindred spirit.
Despite his old age, his abilities were undeniable.
And his loyalty and devotion to protecting his nation were worthy of admiration.
However
Qin's conquest of the Six States and its dominion over the world was an unchangeable reality.
After annexing Zhao and Han, Qin had already established itself as the most powerful nation. With millions of new subjects added to its population, its national strength had only grown.
In this era, population was a key factor in national power.
Population meant soldiers.
"Capture Yanggao City."
"Break through the border."
"Then split into three divisions and annihilate Wei."
Zhao Feng's gaze swept over the map, and he had already formulated his strategy for this battle.
With absolute strength on their side
With no concerns over supply lines or provisions
There was no need for elaborate tactics. The pure force would suffice.
In this vast plain, there was little room for intricate strategies. This was not the rugged terrain of Shu nor the jungles of Baiyue; there were no natural barriers to exploit.
"Zhang Ming."
Returning to his senses, Zhao Feng called out.
"My lord," Zhang Ming immediately stepped forward.
"Send a hundred personal guards to protect my sister," Zhao Feng ordered.
"Understood!" Zhang Ming swiftly went to carry out the command.
With the army mobilizing, the medical corps from the field hospital would also move with them.
Naturally, Zhao Feng had to make special arrangements for his sister.
Truth be told
He never wanted her to be in a military camp in the first place. But she had inherited his stubborn nature. Once she set her mind to something, she would see it through.
"Annihilate Wei."
"I'll use this battle to push all my attributes past ten thousand."
"Only True Qi remains lacking."
Zhao Feng was filled with anticipation.
He yearned to gain more attributes through war and extend his lifespan even further.
The stronger he became, the closer he would get to uncovering the reason behind the natural limit of 150 years.
Since he could collect attributes, how could he not desire a longer life?
Moreover
He wished for his loved ones to live longer as well.
Qin Capital, Xianyang!
Epang Palace!
"Your Majesty."
"The war has begun!"
Wei Liao entered the palace and spoke just three words.
"Wei will be erased within a year," Ying Zheng said, lifting his gaze. His voice was commanding and resolute.
"I will monitor the war closely," Wei Liao assured. "The moment a battle report arrives, I will submit it immediately."
"Chu's Huang Xie has begun making moves," he added.
"It seems he intends to act against Qin."
"Huang Xie."
"That old relic should have been buried long ago."
"I will handle him," Ying Zheng said with a faint smile as if everything had already been arranged.
No need for further explanation.
Wei Liao understood at once.
"Huang Xie is indeed formidable."
"And he has lived quite a long life."
"But there are plenty within Chu who wish for his demise," Wei Liao said with a smirk.
"Minister Wei."
"Keep a close watch on the grain supply."
"The army must never run out of provisions," Ying Zheng commanded.
"The affairs of the state are in the hands of the Chancellor and Lord Feng. They will not act recklessly," Wei Liao reassured.
"I will also oversee matters personally. Your Majesty may rest assured."
Ying Zheng nodded, his eyes turning toward the great hall's entrance.
"Wei the last of the Three Jin states!"
Yanggao City!
"Report!"
"General Long, urgent news!"
"The Qin army from Wuan Camp has reached our Wei border!"
"Our border troops have been annihilated!"
"Report!"
"General Long, another urgent report!"
"The Qin army has crossed the border, eliminating our defensive outposts and advancing straight toward Yanggao City!"
"Report!"
"General Long, the Qin army is now only five li from our city walls and has begun setting up camp!"
One after another, scouts rushed into the city's command center, delivering urgent reports to General Long Zhang.
"The intelligence reported that Qin would attack in two months."
"But it hasn't even been that long."
"This Qin scheme launching an early surprise attack is indeed cunning," Long Zhang sneered, showing some surprise but even more mockery.
"There's no need to panic."
"Yanggao City is strong, well-manned, and well-provisioned."
"Qin cannot break through."
"Furthermore"
"The so-called Wuan Camp of Qin is merely composed of Zhao defectors."
"They would never truly fight with all their hearts for Qin," Long Zhang said calmly.
"General," a Wei officer spoke up, "each of the three main divisions of Wuan Camp follows Qin's military structure, with ten thousand troops per main camp."
"That means the Wuan Camp has a total of thirty thousand troops."
"If they launch a full-scale assault, I fear Yanggao City may not hold."
"His Majesty and I have already formulated our defensive strategy for Qin's assault."
"Now that Qin has come, all you need to do is oversee your respective units and defend with full force," Long Zhang instructed, his tone unwavering.
"Understood!"
The Wei officers all saluted.
"With Qin's arrival"
"All commanders, hear my order!"
"From this day forth, no officer shall leave his post by even a single step!"
"Anyone who abandons their position will be executed under military law!"
"From this moment on, Yanggao City is under total lockdown. No one is to enter or leave!" Long Zhang decreed.
The Wei officers all bowed. "Understood!"
As the officers dispersed
Long Zhang turned to a deputy general beside him and spoke in a low voice.
"Is everything prepared?"
"I have personally led my most trusted men to make all necessary arrangements, spreading our forces throughout the city," the deputy whispered.
"If it truly comes to that, we will ensure mutual destruction with the Qin army."
"Good."
Long Zhang nodded, his expression resolute.
"His Majesty's grace Wei's grace"
"My Long clan shall repay even at the cost of our lives!"
Nightfall.
Outside Yanggao City!
Inside the main tent of the Qin army camp, the lights burned bright.
All the generals had gathered for a war council.
Zhao Feng, as the Supreme General, sat at the head of the command tent.
"Supreme General."
"All the elite soldiers have eaten their fill and are ready for tomorrow's battle," Zhang Han reported with a cupped fist salute.
Zhao Feng nodded, his expression stern. "Back in Yunzhong, I already told you all"
"There are no fewer than 150,000 Wei soldiers in Yanggao City, with ample supplies. They intend to resist our Great Qin for the long haul."
"To break this city, we must attack head-on."
Zhao Feng's voice was deep and resolute.
"Your subordinate requests to lead the attack!"
Three generals spoke in unison.
"Tomorrow," Zhao Feng declared, "Tu Sui will command the main camp's archers to suppress the enemy, firing all fifty thousand arrows into the city."
"Li You will lead the elite soldiers of his main camp as the vanguard and attack alongside me."
"As for the cavalry, they will circle to the rear of Yanggao City and cut off the Wei army's retreat."
Zhao Feng's gaze swept over the three generals as he issued his orders.
Hearing that the vanguard duty had been entrusted to him, Li You was visibly excited.
"Your subordinate obeys!" The three generals shouted in unison.
"General Li," Zhao Feng turned his gaze toward Li You.
"Supreme General," Li You responded respectfully.
"For a long time," Zhao Feng continued, "many in the army have criticized you for transitioning from a civil official to a military one, claiming that you lack battlefield experience but still hold a high command."
"Now, I am giving you this opportunity to lead the main camp as the vanguard."
"I hope you will cherish it."
Zhao Feng's gaze was steady as he spoke.
Li You trembled slightly before bowing deeply. "I will not let you down, Supreme General!"
"Good." Zhao Feng nodded, saying no more.
Assigning Li You's main camp as the vanguard was a favor to him a chance to earn merit.
As Supreme General, Zhao Feng still upheld the tradition of leading by example in battle.
With his presence, breaking the city was no difficult feat.
This was an opportunity handed to Li You on a silver platter whether he could seize it depended on him. If he failed to command his troops effectively, he would have no one to blame but himself.
At that moment, Zhang Ming strode swiftly into the tent, holding a sealed report.
He approached Zhao Feng and whispered, "Master, this is intelligence from the Yan Court's agents hidden inside Yanggao City. It is confirmed to be true."
Zhao Feng unfolded the report slowly. His expression shifted slightly, but he quickly regained composure.
"Wei Wuji..."
"You have indeed dealt a heavy blow to our Great Qin."
"But..."
"You overestimate the secrecy of your subordinates."
"War is not just about battlefield clashes intelligence is also a critical factor."
Zhao Feng smirked inwardly, then calmly closed the report.
"All generals, return and make your preparations."
"After breakfast tomorrow, we march immediately!" Zhao Feng ordered, scanning the gathered officers.
"Yes, sir!"
The generals responded in unison and left the command tent.
The Next Day
As the sun rose and breakfast was finished, the powerful sound of war drums and trumpets echoed across the Wei border.
Countless Qin soldiers, clad in black armor, stood in formation, advancing toward Yanggao City.
Three main camps, 300,000 troops.
100,000 cavalry, 200,000 infantry.
Among them, seven or eight out of ten were former Zhao soldiers who had surrendered, now dressed in Qin armor, wearing Qin military uniforms, and wielding Qin weapons.
From the outside, there was no trace of their past identity they were indistinguishable from true Qin soldiers.
Today's battle was the first large-scale engagement for the newly formed Wu'an Camp.
For the convict soldiers within the ranks, anxiety was inevitableboth for their lives and for the fear that Qin's promised pardon might not hold.
The closer they got to battle, the stronger these concerns became.
While Zhao Feng trusted his reformed convict troops, every company had fifty overseers assigned.
Any soldier who fled in battle executed.
Any soldier who caused disorder was executed.
Any soldier who disobeyed orders executed.
Only through the baptism of real battle could these convict soldiers truly become loyal.
Only when they saw the hope of redemption could they fight wholeheartedly for Great Qin.
Outside Yanggao City
The Qin army surged forward like an unstoppable tide, darkening the skies with their numbers.
As they drew near, the entire city was shrouded in an oppressive atmosphere.
Over 500 catapults stood ready.
Over 500 ballistae were positioned in formation.
All aimed at Yanggao City.
Behind them
Tens of thousands of Qin archers lined up, ready to unleash a rain of arrows.
At the forefront
Zhao Feng stood atop a war chariot, his cold gaze fixed on Yanggao City.
"Great Qin's elite warriors where are you?"
Drawing his Longquan sword, Zhao Feng raised his voice in a thunderous battle cry.
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