Spring has long passed, and the weather is gradually warming. The severe cold of the coldest period, known as “the nine nines,” has disappeared with the arrival of spring. However, sitting in the grand hall, Sima Ying trembles, as if the ceremonial robes on his body cannot suppress the bone-chilling cold.
Wang Mi has escaped. After being besieged by the imperial army for three months, Wang Mi, the self-proclaimed Grand General, Grand Commander, and Grand Commandant, fled with tens of thousands of remnants. Without these soldiers and horses, the defense immediately collapsed, and Sima Yue had already led his army to attack outside Huarong City. How could the small city walls withstand such a large army?
He couldn’t hold on any longer.
Below the steps, the few remaining courtiers sat quietly like mud-and-wood puppets. What could he possibly extract from their mouths? These people would gladly tie him up and hand him over to Sima Yue for a chance to redeem themselves. This “Emperor” of his now only serves such a purpose.
“Open the city.” After a long time, Sima Ying finally spoke.
There was a commotion below, and someone exclaimed, “Your Majesty, as long as you escape from Jing County, there might still be a chance…”
Before the words were finished, Sima Ying waved his wide sleeves, “All of you, withdraw.”
As if they had glimpsed something ominous from his face, the people below struggled for a moment and then dispersed like fleeing shadows.
Facing the empty hall, Sima Ying sat in a daze for a moment, suddenly asking, “How old are you this year?”
There was no one left in the hall, and the eunuch behind him was stunned for a moment, then suddenly knelt down, “Your Majesty!”
“How old?” Sima Ying asked again.
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“The old servant is fifty-three…” The eunuch, one of Sima Ying’s trusted confidants, seemed to understand what the emperor was thinking and choked back tears.
“Fifty… perhaps knowing one’s destiny?” Sima Ying chuckled bitterly. At the age of twenty-nine, how could he wait for the age to know one’s destiny?
The eunuch wanted to persuade him, but a wry smile appeared on Sima Ying’s handsome face, “Well, it’s better than falling into the hands of the enemy. After my death, will the world be at peace? It’s better to step ahead of him.”
In this voice, there was a chilling cold that sent shivers down one’s spine. The eunuch who had been crying could no longer speak. However, Sima Ying stood up and walked straight towards the pillars in the hall.
※
“Has the Pseudo-emperor taken his own life?” When the city gate opened, and officials surrendered, Sima Yue knew he had won. However, before he could carry out the various humiliations he had envisioned, he heard the news of Sima Ying’s suicide by hanging.
This somewhat disappointed him. The struggle between him and Sima Ying had lasted for over three years. From the initial Battle of Ye City to the later coexistence of two emperors, the dangers were immeasurable. After squandering the lives of thirty thousand soldiers, he finally captured the fortified city, eliminating this constant threat that troubled his peace of mind. However, not being able to personally witness the defeat of this fallen subordinate was truly regrettable.
Yet, the disappointment was fleeting. Sima Yue immediately inquired, “Did the pseudo-emperor leave behind any offspring?”
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“A few imperial princes also perished by poison.”
Upon hearing this answer, a smile appeared on Sima Yue’s face. It’s for the best. No matter how much trouble they cause, they are still the legitimate sons of the Martial Emperor. Personally dealing with them would undoubtedly leave evidence. Now that the whole family has committed suicide, it saves a lot of trouble.
“Good! Reward the army and return to the capital!” With no more worries in his heart, Sima Yue declared loudly.
No one could vie with him for the position of Grand Tutor now. As long as he clears away the rebels and barbarians, he can secure this empire. However, amidst his triumphant thoughts, there was still a small thorn in his mind, causing a dull pain. The young emperor in Luoyang, becoming increasingly unruly, was a hidden danger. Taking action now would be hasty; what he needed was a proper plan to eliminate him at the right time.
Power is like winter clothing; once worn, it cannot be easily taken off. Only by removing those thorns can one live peacefully. How could Sima Yue not understand the importance of this?
However, while he thought about it, halfway through the return of the army, the direction changed. This was because Wang Mi, who had escaped from Jing County, led fifty thousand unruly troops and swept through Yu County. Forced to act, Sima Yue led his troops to the station in Xuchang, ordering Guo Xi to pacify the chaos. However, no matter how brilliant Guo Xi was in military strategy, he commanded troops that had been fighting for half a year. Faced with the ruthless and numerous troops of Wang Mi, he could only defend with great difficulty. The two armies were deadlocked in the territory of Yu County.
※
“Grand General, the troops and horses are ready. Shall we attack Xindu?”
Shi Le did not immediately answer but looked outside the tent. Winter had already passed, and there was a hint of greenery on the branches in the fields. They not only endured the most difficult days but also expanded their initial five thousand troops and horses to a force of thirty thousand. Although it was not the time for war at the transition from winter to spring, it was easier to recruit soldiers and buy horses. This was because Shi Le had gathered mostly refugees and bandits, and even after capturing cities, he could recruit local militias from within.
For the impoverished peasants, the period until the summer harvest was unbearable, with shortages of food leading to death. Faced with military disasters, what choice did they have other than joining the bandits? Moreover, every time Shi Le’s army entered a city, they killed officials, opened granaries, and distributed unclaimed food directly to the people. These small favors were enough to inflame the minds of the young and strong, causing them to overlook Shi Le’s identity as a Jie Hu. They willingly joined the military.
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As a result, the size of this army continued to grow, and if they could capture Xindu, the capital of Ji County, it might add tens of thousands more to their forces!
Back when they escaped from Wei Jun in a sorry state, who could have imagined this day? After witnessing the terrifying might of the Bing County troops, the defending Jin army in Ji County appeared even weaker. Desires grew like wild grass in spring winds. Now, the army led by Shi Le was several times larger than it was when they encountered Jisang. He truly deserved the title of Grand General!
However, he was not satisfied with just this achievement. After capturing Ji County, he still needed to ally with the Xiongnu. With an official position, future campaigns wouldn’t be as simple as seizing food and rebelling. Although the city-defending generals might choose to surrender to the Xiongnu army, they wouldn’t show mercy to a group of bandits.
He had already heard that the Commander-in-chief in Ye City was also of Jie origin. Why could he be enfeoffed and appointed as a Commander, while he could only lead a group of mud-legged soldiers to plunder food? What others could achieve, he naturally could too!
“General?” Seeing that Shi Le didn’t answer, the subordinate nervously asked, “Is there anything wrong with Xindu?”
Shi Le snorted coldly, “What’s wrong? Organize the troops and attack the city immediately!”
There was no more time to waste. If they could capture Ji County and kill the provincial governor, his merit would be several times greater than when he took Ye City. Was he afraid he couldn’t secure the Han dynasty’s amnesty? As for those Bing County troops, there would be another battle sooner or later. Next time, he would make sure to determine a winner!
※
“Kill! Kill! Kill!”
The sound of killing echoed outside the barracks in Ye City. These newly recruited soldiers had been training for over three months, practicing formations every day without rest. However, such labor did not make them feel weary; instead, they trained with great enthusiasm. It was all because there was an incentive to push them to fight to the death!
Most of them came from military households, and no matter which general came, they would forcefully conscript people. Not to mention the young and strong, even the elderly and children might be forcibly enlisted. After joining the army, they couldn’t eat well, dress warmly, and had to perform various labor tasks. At any moment, the commander might order them to fill the moat. Joining the military was not as good as being a refugee! Therefore, even among military households, many attempted to escape. If they couldn’t escape, they wouldn’t be wholeheartedly committed to fighting. Most likely, they would scatter at the first charge and become deserters early in the battle.
But under General Yi’s command, it was nothing like this. As early as the conscription, resettlement allowances were distributed. During the difficult times when there was no harvest, a little extra rice could save a family, and who wouldn’t be tempted? Once enlisted, all their needs were provided by the military. If they trained well and showed courage and ability, they might even be promoted to corporals, leading a few soldiers.
Training, in the end, was also to preserve their lives. The officers made it clear, practicing alongside the soldiers, never slacking off. Without embezzling rations and without abusing or tormenting them, looking at officers who were just like themselves, coming from humble backgrounds, who wouldn’t be tempted? If they could achieve meritorious deeds on the battlefield, could they not, like them, receive pay, acquire land, and gain titles? For those who had suffered for half their lives and couldn’t find hope, it was truly something to look forward to.
Therefore, even if the camp was tough, no one retreated. On the contrary, everyone hoped to go into battle as soon as possible.
The sound of horse hooves echoed from afar, getting closer. Many soldiers who were in training couldn’t help but turn their heads to look but were immediately rebuked by the drill sergeants and dared not be distracted. However, everyone knew in their hearts that General Yi was back! Had the unruly rebels in Guangping been pacified?
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“General Yi, this time you’ve wiped out another bandit group; it’s truly hard work and high achievements!” Wang Ping smiled with joy and praised.
Although Guangping County was not within the jurisdiction of Wei Jun, it was still under the command of General Yi. Moreover, it was adjacent to Ji County, where the military turmoil was intense. Being able to pacify it was greatly beneficial to Wei Jun.
Now, Wang Ping was quite familiar with the person in front of him, knowing that although Yiyan appeared cold, he was quite eager for practical gains. When it came to rations, he didn’t hesitate at all. There were only six thousand new recruits, but they managed to requisition over ten thousand units of rations. This empty pay was indeed quite a substantial amount!
However, after Yiyan demonstrated his strength, Wang Ping felt more at ease. As for rations, aside from Wei Jun, wouldn’t the other pacified counties and districts also supply them? The more battles they fought, the lighter the pressure on his shoulders became, making everything increasingly easy.
Faced with such a pleasing smile, Yiyan showed no sign of joy on his face; instead, he frowned and asked, “I heard that the rebel forces in Ji County have begun attacking Xindu?”
Wang Ping’s smile froze for a moment. How was his information so well-informed? He couldn’t avoid answering, so he forced a dry laugh and said, “Indeed, there is such a matter. It is said that Governor Ding has already led his troops, but it remains to be seen whether they can repel the rebel forces…”
“If Xindu falls, Ji County will be in danger. It must be saved!” Yiyan, who had already established his prestige, didn’t need to be overly polite with Wang Ping.
Hearing this, Wang Ping’s expression turned serious, “General Yi, this matter is not appropriate. The troops in Hebei are already limited. Saving another province will only disrupt our situation. Governor Ding and Captain Feng in Ji County are both seasoned warriors. How could they be helpless against mere bandits?”
“And what if they can’t hold it?” Yiyan countered.
“Well…”
Wang Ping wanted to say more, but Yiyan waved his hand, “Lord, you are not familiar with military affairs. If Xindu falls, those marauding rebels might infiltrate into Si County, causing trouble for Hebei once again. Haven’t you forgotten that Ye City was already breached once, and even Prince Dongyin met a tragic end in the wilderness? Do you not remember, Lord?”
The implication of those words was too frightening, and beads of cold sweat appeared on Wang Ping’s forehead. Indeed, when there were just ten thousand bandits, they overwhelmed Ye City without any resistance. What if tens of thousands more came? Would he abandon the city and flee, or sacrifice himself for the country?
Swallowing hard, Wang Ping said with difficulty, “Even so, we still need to see how Governor Ding responds. Hasty military actions are always inappropriate…”
This time, Yiyan didn’t refute. He simply said, “Please, Lord, prepare early.”
For better or worse, half a month later, news arrived from Ji County. West Prefect Feng Chong died on the battlefield, and Xindu fell!
Spring has long passed, and the weather is gradually warming. The severe cold of the coldest period, known as “the nine nines,” has disappeared with the arrival of spring. However, sitting in the grand hall, Sima Ying trembles, as if the ceremonial robes on his body cannot suppress the bone-chilling cold.
Wang Mi has escaped. After being besieged by the imperial army for three months, Wang Mi, the self-proclaimed Grand General, Grand Commander, and Grand Commandant, fled with tens of thousands of remnants. Without these soldiers and horses, the defense immediately collapsed, and Sima Yue had already led his army to attack outside Huarong City. How could the small city walls withstand such a large army?
He couldn’t hold on any longer.
Below the steps, the few remaining courtiers sat quietly like mud-and-wood puppets. What could he possibly extract from their mouths? These people would gladly tie him up and hand him over to Sima Yue for a chance to redeem themselves. This “Emperor” of his now only serves such a purpose.
“Open the city.” After a long time, Sima Ying finally spoke.
There was a commotion below, and someone exclaimed, “Your Majesty, as long as you escape from Jing County, there might still be a chance…”
Before the words were finished, Sima Ying waved his wide sleeves, “All of you, withdraw.”
As if they had glimpsed something ominous from his face, the people below struggled for a moment and then dispersed like fleeing shadows.
Facing the empty hall, Sima Ying sat in a daze for a moment, suddenly asking, “How old are you this year?”
There was no one left in the hall, and the eunuch behind him was stunned for a moment, then suddenly knelt down, “Your Majesty!”
“How old?” Sima Ying asked again.
Advertisement
“The old servant is fifty-three…” The eunuch, one of Sima Ying’s trusted confidants, seemed to understand what the emperor was thinking and choked back tears.
“Fifty… perhaps knowing one’s destiny?” Sima Ying chuckled bitterly. At the age of twenty-nine, how could he wait for the age to know one’s destiny?
The eunuch wanted to persuade him, but a wry smile appeared on Sima Ying’s handsome face, “Well, it’s better than falling into the hands of the enemy. After my death, will the world be at peace? It’s better to step ahead of him.”
In this voice, there was a chilling cold that sent shivers down one’s spine. The eunuch who had been crying could no longer speak. However, Sima Ying stood up and walked straight towards the pillars in the hall.
※
“Has the Pseudo-emperor taken his own life?” When the city gate opened, and officials surrendered, Sima Yue knew he had won. However, before he could carry out the various humiliations he had envisioned, he heard the news of Sima Ying’s suicide by hanging.
This somewhat disappointed him. The struggle between him and Sima Ying had lasted for over three years. From the initial Battle of Ye City to the later coexistence of two emperors, the dangers were immeasurable. After squandering the lives of thirty thousand soldiers, he finally captured the fortified city, eliminating this constant threat that troubled his peace of mind. However, not being able to personally witness the defeat of this fallen subordinate was truly regrettable.
Yet, the disappointment was fleeting. Sima Yue immediately inquired, “Did the pseudo-emperor leave behind any offspring?”
Advertisement
“A few imperial princes also perished by poison.”
Upon hearing this answer, a smile appeared on Sima Yue’s face. It’s for the best. No matter how much trouble they cause, they are still the legitimate sons of the Martial Emperor. Personally dealing with them would undoubtedly leave evidence. Now that the whole family has committed suicide, it saves a lot of trouble.
“Good! Reward the army and return to the capital!” With no more worries in his heart, Sima Yue declared loudly.
No one could vie with him for the position of Grand Tutor now. As long as he clears away the rebels and barbarians, he can secure this empire. However, amidst his triumphant thoughts, there was still a small thorn in his mind, causing a dull pain. The young emperor in Luoyang, becoming increasingly unruly, was a hidden danger. Taking action now would be hasty; what he needed was a proper plan to eliminate him at the right time.
Power is like winter clothing; once worn, it cannot be easily taken off. Only by removing those thorns can one live peacefully. How could Sima Yue not understand the importance of this?
However, while he thought about it, halfway through the return of the army, the direction changed. This was because Wang Mi, who had escaped from Jing County, led fifty thousand unruly troops and swept through Yu County. Forced to act, Sima Yue led his troops to the station in Xuchang, ordering Guo Xi to pacify the chaos. However, no matter how brilliant Guo Xi was in military strategy, he commanded troops that had been fighting for half a year. Faced with the ruthless and numerous troops of Wang Mi, he could only defend with great difficulty. The two armies were deadlocked in the territory of Yu County.
※
“Grand General, the troops and horses are ready. Shall we attack Xindu?”
Shi Le did not immediately answer but looked outside the tent. Winter had already passed, and there was a hint of greenery on the branches in the fields. They not only endured the most difficult days but also expanded their initial five thousand troops and horses to a force of thirty thousand. Although it was not the time for war at the transition from winter to spring, it was easier to recruit soldiers and buy horses. This was because Shi Le had gathered mostly refugees and bandits, and even after capturing cities, he could recruit local militias from within.
For the impoverished peasants, the period until the summer harvest was unbearable, with shortages of food leading to death. Faced with military disasters, what choice did they have other than joining the bandits? Moreover, every time Shi Le’s army entered a city, they killed officials, opened granaries, and distributed unclaimed food directly to the people. These small favors were enough to inflame the minds of the young and strong, causing them to overlook Shi Le’s identity as a Jie Hu. They willingly joined the military.
Advertisement
As a result, the size of this army continued to grow, and if they could capture Xindu, the capital of Ji County, it might add tens of thousands more to their forces!
Back when they escaped from Wei Jun in a sorry state, who could have imagined this day? After witnessing the terrifying might of the Bing County troops, the defending Jin army in Ji County appeared even weaker. Desires grew like wild grass in spring winds. Now, the army led by Shi Le was several times larger than it was when they encountered Jisang. He truly deserved the title of Grand General!
However, he was not satisfied with just this achievement. After capturing Ji County, he still needed to ally with the Xiongnu. With an official position, future campaigns wouldn’t be as simple as seizing food and rebelling. Although the city-defending generals might choose to surrender to the Xiongnu army, they wouldn’t show mercy to a group of bandits.
He had already heard that the Commander-in-chief in Ye City was also of Jie origin. Why could he be enfeoffed and appointed as a Commander, while he could only lead a group of mud-legged soldiers to plunder food? What others could achieve, he naturally could too!
“General?” Seeing that Shi Le didn’t answer, the subordinate nervously asked, “Is there anything wrong with Xindu?”
Shi Le snorted coldly, “What’s wrong? Organize the troops and attack the city immediately!”
There was no more time to waste. If they could capture Ji County and kill the provincial governor, his merit would be several times greater than when he took Ye City. Was he afraid he couldn’t secure the Han dynasty’s amnesty? As for those Bing County troops, there would be another battle sooner or later. Next time, he would make sure to determine a winner!
※
“Kill! Kill! Kill!”
The sound of killing echoed outside the barracks in Ye City. These newly recruited soldiers had been training for over three months, practicing formations every day without rest. However, such labor did not make them feel weary; instead, they trained with great enthusiasm. It was all because there was an incentive to push them to fight to the death!
Most of them came from military households, and no matter which general came, they would forcefully conscript people. Not to mention the young and strong, even the elderly and children might be forcibly enlisted. After joining the army, they couldn’t eat well, dress warmly, and had to perform various labor tasks. At any moment, the commander might order them to fill the moat. Joining the military was not as good as being a refugee! Therefore, even among military households, many attempted to escape. If they couldn’t escape, they wouldn’t be wholeheartedly committed to fighting. Most likely, they would scatter at the first charge and become deserters early in the battle.
But under General Yi’s command, it was nothing like this. As early as the conscription, resettlement allowances were distributed. During the difficult times when there was no harvest, a little extra rice could save a family, and who wouldn’t be tempted? Once enlisted, all their needs were provided by the military. If they trained well and showed courage and ability, they might even be promoted to corporals, leading a few soldiers.
Training, in the end, was also to preserve their lives. The officers made it clear, practicing alongside the soldiers, never slacking off. Without embezzling rations and without abusing or tormenting them, looking at officers who were just like themselves, coming from humble backgrounds, who wouldn’t be tempted? If they could achieve meritorious deeds on the battlefield, could they not, like them, receive pay, acquire land, and gain titles? For those who had suffered for half their lives and couldn’t find hope, it was truly something to look forward to.
Therefore, even if the camp was tough, no one retreated. On the contrary, everyone hoped to go into battle as soon as possible.
The sound of horse hooves echoed from afar, getting closer. Many soldiers who were in training couldn’t help but turn their heads to look but were immediately rebuked by the drill sergeants and dared not be distracted. However, everyone knew in their hearts that General Yi was back! Had the unruly rebels in Guangping been pacified?
Advertisement
“General Yi, this time you’ve wiped out another bandit group; it’s truly hard work and high achievements!” Wang Ping smiled with joy and praised.
Although Guangping County was not within the jurisdiction of Wei Jun, it was still under the command of General Yi. Moreover, it was adjacent to Ji County, where the military turmoil was intense. Being able to pacify it was greatly beneficial to Wei Jun.
Now, Wang Ping was quite familiar with the person in front of him, knowing that although Yiyan appeared cold, he was quite eager for practical gains. When it came to rations, he didn’t hesitate at all. There were only six thousand new recruits, but they managed to requisition over ten thousand units of rations. This empty pay was indeed quite a substantial amount!
However, after Yiyan demonstrated his strength, Wang Ping felt more at ease. As for rations, aside from Wei Jun, wouldn’t the other pacified counties and districts also supply them? The more battles they fought, the lighter the pressure on his shoulders became, making everything increasingly easy.
Faced with such a pleasing smile, Yiyan showed no sign of joy on his face; instead, he frowned and asked, “I heard that the rebel forces in Ji County have begun attacking Xindu?”
Wang Ping’s smile froze for a moment. How was his information so well-informed? He couldn’t avoid answering, so he forced a dry laugh and said, “Indeed, there is such a matter. It is said that Governor Ding has already led his troops, but it remains to be seen whether they can repel the rebel forces…”
“If Xindu falls, Ji County will be in danger. It must be saved!” Yiyan, who had already established his prestige, didn’t need to be overly polite with Wang Ping.
Hearing this, Wang Ping’s expression turned serious, “General Yi, this matter is not appropriate. The troops in Hebei are already limited. Saving another province will only disrupt our situation. Governor Ding and Captain Feng in Ji County are both seasoned warriors. How could they be helpless against mere bandits?”
“And what if they can’t hold it?” Yiyan countered.
“Well…”
Wang Ping wanted to say more, but Yiyan waved his hand, “Lord, you are not familiar with military affairs. If Xindu falls, those marauding rebels might infiltrate into Si County, causing trouble for Hebei once again. Haven’t you forgotten that Ye City was already breached once, and even Prince Dongyin met a tragic end in the wilderness? Do you not remember, Lord?”
The implication of those words was too frightening, and beads of cold sweat appeared on Wang Ping’s forehead. Indeed, when there were just ten thousand bandits, they overwhelmed Ye City without any resistance. What if tens of thousands more came? Would he abandon the city and flee, or sacrifice himself for the country?
Swallowing hard, Wang Ping said with difficulty, “Even so, we still need to see how Governor Ding responds. Hasty military actions are always inappropriate…”
This time, Yiyan didn’t refute. He simply said, “Please, Lord, prepare early.”
For better or worse, half a month later, news arrived from Ji County. West Prefect Feng Chong died on the battlefield, and Xindu fell!
