In the days that followed, the area within dozens of miles surrounding Xiangzhou and Weizhou was transformed into a vast and bustling construction site.
Countless soldiers and civilians, like ants, carried out massive civil engineering work in the cold winds of early winter.
The sounds of shouts, digging, tamping, and logging intertwined to create a poignant yet vibrant battlefield symphony.
Deep trenches, some over ten feet deep, were dug out one after another, winding like dragons, cutting the flat plains into pieces.
One after another, fortified camps rose from the ground; though simple, they were formidable.
The defensive depth has been continuously reinforced and extended through the efforts of countless hands.
Although it was hard work and there were occasional complaints, under Yang Yan's strict and effective organization, and with the growing threat of the heads of violators hanging high above the gate, the entire project was orderly and incredibly efficient.
The remaining 50,000 Fengtian Army soldiers looked at the increasingly perfect defensive fortifications before them, and felt the army's renewed discipline and calm yet firm atmosphere.
The heart that had been filled with anxiety and on the verge of collapse due to the disastrous defeat in Hejian Prefecture gradually calmed down.
They began to believe that this taciturn but ruthless new marshal might truly be able to lead them to build a real bulwark on this land stained with the blood of their comrades, blocking the seemingly unstoppable torrent of the Northern Di's iron hooves.
...
Daizhou, the Grand Commander's residence, study.
Zhao Muyun sat on a large chair covered with tiger skin, with secret reports from various parties piled up on the desk in front of him.
He carefully read the detailed intelligence reports about the Xiangzhou direction that were constantly being transmitted back by the "night scouts".
The flames in the charcoal brazier leaped, illuminating his angular face, making it appear deep and unfathomable.
"When Yang Yan arrived in Xiangzhou, he swiftly beheaded Zhang Kui, a colonel who had plundered the people's property, and punished Zhang Kui's 137 soldiers who had participated in the looting, according to the severity of their crimes, with some being flogged, some whipped, and some forced to do hard labor. Their heads were displayed in each camp, and the entire army was in awe."
"The Fengtian Army is constructing large-scale defensive fortifications around Xiangzhou and Weizhou, relying on the Fuyang River and Zhangshui River."
"According to observations, three trenches have been dug, seventeen fortified camps and dozens of beacon towers have been built, the defensive depth has taken initial shape, and the fortifications are constructed in a well-organized manner, not the work of a rabble."
"Yang Yan strictly ordered the cavalry not to move without permission and to gather them all at Lijiapo in the rear. Scouting activities were extremely frequent, and the coverage area far exceeded that during Ma Zongliang's time."
“The military discipline in the Xiangzhou area is strict, and the scattered soldiers are returning to their posts one after another. Although the market is desolate, there are no more chaotic soldiers disturbing the people.”
"The soldiers' expressions of panic gradually faded, and their drills and patrols became quite disciplined."
As the information converged, it clearly outlined in Zhao Muyun's mind Yang Yan's steady and solid defensive posture of clearing the way.
"Hmph, just as expected, it's a turtle hiding in its shell tactic."
Wu Shangzhi, standing to the side, spat out, his face full of disdain, "This Yang Yan, when he's on his own, he turns into a tortoise? All he knows is digging ditches and building walls!"
Zhao Muyun nodded slightly, a hint of appreciation flashing in her eyes:
"A skilled strategist first makes himself invincible, then waits for the enemy to become vulnerable. Yang Yan deeply understood the essence of military strategy."
"Knowing that he was no match for Wuzhu in open field battles after his recent defeat, he played to his strengths and avoided his weaknesses, relying on the terrain and the people's hearts to build strong fortifications and wear down the enemy's morale."
"This is the wisest and safest choice at present. It seems that Wuzhu's idea of conquering Hebei in one battle, just like he did with Ma Zongliang, is absolutely impossible."
At this moment, Shen Qian walked lightly into the study and reported in a low voice:
"Grand Commander, the information we spread has begun to show results. The scouting activities of the Northern Barbarians have become significantly more frequent, especially in the areas of Weizhou and Yizhou, where the number of scouts has increased by 30%, seemingly intensifying the surveillance and pressure on General Wu's detachment."
"In addition, news has also come from the capital that the court has praised the Grand Commander's decisive action in sending troops. Feng Liang even said at a small court meeting that the Grand Commander was a man of great righteousness and had the overall situation in mind."
Upon hearing this, Zhao Muyun smiled faintly, with a hint of sarcasm: "Famous reputation is of no practical use. It's just a tactic used by Yang Yan and Feng Liang to keep me in check, and also a show for the world to see."
"The key is Wuzhu and Yang Yan's subsequent reactions."
He pondered for a moment and asked, "Have you received any replies from Xijing and Huazhou?"
"I've gone back."
Shen Qian's expression was slightly solemn as he presented the two secret letters. "His Highness Prince Jin and General Lin Feng of Huazhou have both indicated that they have received the warning and have immediately strengthened their defenses."
"But... His Highness Prince Jin said that due to last year's poor harvest and recent military expansion, the grain reserves can only last for two months, and he hopes that we can find a way ourselves."
"Governor Lin Feng said that his troops were stretched thin, and he had to defend Longmen Pass, assist in the defense of Xijing, and guard against Ziwu Valley, which put him under great pressure."
Zhao Muyun took the secret letter, quickly glanced at it, and frowned slightly.
He walked up to the huge map of mountains and rivers, his gaze sweeping over Xijing, Huazhou, Longmen Pass, and Ziwu Valley.
"Reply to them that I will find a way to raise the necessary supplies and troops and transport them in batches."
"As for weaponry, have Pei Lun and Fan Nan find a way from Longyou. Tell them to hold their ground at all costs! Especially Longmen Pass and Ziwu Valley, they absolutely cannot be lost!"
“Yang Yan always plans his military strategy carefully before acting. Now that he has reminded us, his nephew Yang Chao from Jiannan Circuit is also making moves. The western front must be one of his targets!”
He knew that Xijing was an important strategic buffer and political stronghold, and he could not afford to lose it, much less let Yang Yan succeed easily.
"Any updates from Yinzhou?" Zhao Muyun was more concerned about this war, which could affect the overall situation.
"According to the latest report from Governor Han, the main force of the Tuoba Wuhu is eyeing Yinzhou City covetously on the Xichuan Grassland."
"Commander Tong Gu currently only has General Murong Chunhua's cavalry to assist him. It is already difficult to defend the city, let alone fight in the field outside the city."
Zhao Muyun stared at the location of Yinzhou on the map, his mind racing as he weighed the options.
After a long silence, a decisive look flashed in his eyes: "Get Han Zhong a batch of thunderbolts and divine cannons from Yanzhou to completely terrify Tufa Wuhu. Also, Tian Qing should take the initiative to find an opportunity to fight."
"Yes! I'll go and deliver the message right away!" Shen Qian accepted the order and hurried off.
After dealing with these urgent matters, Zhao Muyun turned her gaze back to the map of Hebei.
The defensive line that Yang Yan was building in Xiangzhou was gradually taking shape, like an increasingly solid dam, trying to stop the raging flood of the Northern Di Wuzhu.
As for Zhao Muyun, he needed to calmly observe from the shore and find the most suitable opportunity.
It could be reinforcing the dikes, diverting floodwaters, or even...
At a critical moment, create a breach in the dam that is advantageous to oneself.
"Yang Yan, you guard your Xiangzhou, proceed steadily and cautiously, and plan for the future. I will plan my Hedong, maneuvering and waiting for the right time."
He muttered to himself, his eyes flashing with a calm yet unfathomable light, "Let's see who can better seize that fleeting opportunity in this grand game that involves the world."
"This game of strategy played from a distance has only just begun."
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