The preparations for the ambush proved to be absolutely correct in hindsight. What differed was not the timing, but the intelligence. If one were to use superstitious terms, it could be understood as fate. This allowed the Qin State Cavalry Unit, which almost faced total annihilation, to narrowly escape death.
Wang He, who had thrown Luzi's letter onto the table, initially did not intend to read it. However, an unexpected incident occurred. Just as he was preparing his warhorse to leave the camp, the sword that had been hanging securely fell to the ground. Since the general was going to battle, all the previously equipped swords were replaced with long swords crafted under the supervision of Artificer Wang Jian.
When the soldiers picked up the General's Sword from the ground and presented it with both hands to the Old General sitting on his horse, Wang Jian took a deep breath before accepting it. He pulled out half of the blade, revealing exquisite craftsmanship that reflected the meticulous dedication of the swordsmith.
From this Bronze Longsword to the crossbows equipped by the Qin State Military, from this fine steed beneath him to the Hequ Horse used for both riding and pulling chariots—all of these were retrieved through the relentless efforts of Luzi and his companions, who faced death and hardship. Without their silent contributions, the combat effectiveness of the Qin Army would not be as advanced as it is now. Each item and every detail showcased the extraordinary abilities of these young individuals.
Could anyone still question Luzi's advice at this moment?
Realizing this, Wang He sheathed the long sword and hung it back at his waist. He raised his hand to signal that no one should leave the camp and hurriedly dismounted his warhorse to rush back to the Main Tent. He was eager to see what was in Luzi's letter and felt an urgent need to know. Unfolding the silk cloth, he quickly discerned the answer.
"Someone! Immediately recall Dong Qing's Cavalry! There must be no mistakes!"
What does "there must be no mistakes" mean? It meant that they had to retrieve the Cavalry Unit that had already set out at all costs! As soon as the order was issued, soldiers who were ready to depart mounted their horses and galloped away.
Fortunately, it was not too late! Just as Dong Qing's unit finished reviewing their map and prepared to enter a fork in the road, a messenger who had been chasing after them finally arrived just in time. At the same time, scouts reported that they had spotted Zhao Army's Supply Team on the opposite fork.
Dong Qing had initially planned to ambush this supply team but was informed that there was an order from the general prohibiting any conflict with Zhao Army forces. Especially regarding Zhao Army's Supply Team—no action could be taken!
As for understanding or not understanding, an order is an order. The principle of command is what is being referred to here. The soldiers under him were all regular troops; they could not act like bandits and do whatever they pleased! The Dong Qing General dared not hesitate; after issuing orders for his rear troops to become front troops, he immediately commanded a return to camp!
Anxiously waiting, Wang He later received news that the Cavalry Unit was complying with orders and returning. Only then did he feel relieved. He had already decided that he must reward this soldier who delivered the message! With his mind at ease, he returned to his seat and picked up Luzi's letter again for another look. The content above contained no words but instead depicted a drawing.
Three Mountains stand tall in the clouds, giving a sense of utmost stability at first glance. However, there is deeper meaning behind it; otherwise, there wouldn't be three peaks depicted! The three towering mountains lean against each other, making the already solid mountain range even more secure. This is also why Wang He immediately understood the answer upon seeing this letter.
Since Luzi has indicated that his side is so firmly established, there is naturally no need to disrupt the stable layout at Qin Army Camp. The three mountains leaning against each other mean that moving any one of them could potentially cause the entire structure to collapse.
What else does Luzi want to convey? Wang He pondered while picking up the letter again to examine it. If there were no deeper meaning, a single mountain would suffice to illustrate the current situation. Yet, there are three depicted here; aside from mutual support... what else could it signify? Three days!? Or perhaps three locations!?
Three locations!
With this thought, Wang He stood up and walked over to the Military Map placed in the Main Tent. There was certainly nothing wrong at Qin Army Camp, and even if the Zhao Army attacked now, it would pose no problem. Meanwhile, within Lightwolf Fortress, Meng Wu and Li Xin were present; Luzi must have instructed them on how to defend the city before leaving. Furthermore, analyzing from Luzi's perspective of not needing Reinforcements, Lightwolf Fortress was safer than ever!
Since two of the three locations had been accounted for, only one remained...
Wang He clasped his hands together and quietly studied the Military Map on the table. As his searching gaze slowly fixed on a particular marker on the map, he suddenly slammed his fist down on that spot.
Here! Changzi County City!
With the final answer emerging clearly, Wang He instantly realized that this was Luzi urgently requesting support from the Army. The three mountains relied on each other to remain towering and unyielding, but now one of those great mountains needed reinforcement! And it was urgent! Since he had confirmed the answer, what was there to wait for? He loudly commanded, “Notify all generals! Come to the Main Tent immediately for orders!”
As military leaders from various divisions hurried into the command tent, fully armored Wang He had been waiting for some time. The planned attack strategy was promptly issued, with each division receiving their designated attack locations and times. This operation had only one objective: to completely drive the Zhao Army out of Shangdang County!
The generals who had been wondering why they hadn’t fought in recent days were nearly going mad with frustration. It wasn't just because a large portion of supplies transported over long distances had been wasted along the way. One could understand it this way: if one hundred pounds of food were sent from within the country, by the time it reached its destination, only about fifty pounds would remain. And where did those fifty pounds go? Naturally, they were consumed by the Soldiers responsible for transporting them! They are human too and need to eat; otherwise, how could they perform physical labor!?
What was perplexing was the attitude of King Qin. Why send out an Army in such a hurry during winter? Once they arrived, everything seemed fine! But then came spring with nothing to do—just competing with the Zhao Army in building walls! Had they known this would be the outcome, they could have deployed troops in spring instead! Facing a tempting feast yet being denied access—who could tolerate that!?
Finally, the long-awaited offensive has arrived! And it's a major strike! What a thrill!
Upon receiving the attack order, the Qin Army's various divisions eagerly prepared themselves, just waiting for the moment to launch their assault. In fact, they had been ready for a long time, but had to wait for three months!
A taut Bowstring is the most powerful! This is what Wang He told his subordinates. As for the real reason, let it fade into the annals of history.
As the operational departments took their positions, each attacking unit quietly moved into their respective assault positions. They awaited the resounding beat of the War Drum, ready to create glory and immortality in this lifetime!
As news of the divisions being ready flooded in like snowflakes, Wang He took a deep breath and gazed at the map of Changzi County City. For some reason, his heart ached, and tears suddenly filled his eyes. The three mountains were originally close together; why did problems have to arise on your side? Luzi! I am ready here! You must stay safe and above all, do not let anything happen!
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