Chapter 88: Commanding the Troops for Battle
News of the great victory at Wild Wolf Valley spread like wildfire, and with Gu Yangui's deliberate encouragement, it was delivered back to the capital by express courier.
The good news arrived five days later at dawn. The messenger, carrying a red command flag with three feathers tucked into its back, rode through the newly opened city gates, shattering the tranquility of the capital, and heading straight for the imperial city. The people lining the streets stopped to watch, discussing the news animatedly. From the color and number of the command flags, they knew it was news of a great victory.
"A great victory in the North! The Duke of Zhenguo annihilated two thousand enemy soldiers at Wolf Valley, and the Rong and Di tribes were routed!"
The sound of news of victory grew louder as it approached, echoing throughout the palace gates. The Ministry of War officials, who had been waiting at the gates, received the report and hurried towards the Zichen Hall.
Inside the Zichen Palace, the morning court session had not yet ended. Emperor Yongxi, seated on the dragon throne, listened calmly to the reports from his officials regarding matters such as grain transport and taxation. However, a suffocating atmosphere permeated the hall. The war in the northern border hung like a sword over everyone's heads, making it impossible for anyone to be completely at ease.
"Report—an urgent message of victory from the northern border!" The loud announcement from the Yellow Gate Attendant outside the hall broke the silence inside.
All eyes instantly focused on the palace gate. Emperor Yongxi's spirits lifted, and he said in a deep voice, "Summon them!"
The messenger, weary from his journey, entered the palace, knelt, and held aloft a report of victory: "Your Majesty, Duke Gu Yangui reports: Four days ago, our army ambushed and decisively defeated the combined forces of the Rongdi Blackwater and Tufa tribes at Wild Wolf Valley, annihilating over two thousand enemy soldiers, capturing several hundred, and seizing countless warhorses and weapons. Our casualties were minimal. The remnants of the Rongdi have scattered and fled north, and the siege of Yunzhou has been temporarily lifted!"
The Minister of War received the report of victory, quickly glanced through it, and then, with a hint of excitement in his voice, read the key parts to the assembled officials. When they heard that "casualties were minor" and "the siege of Yunzhou was temporarily lifted," the tense atmosphere in the hall immediately eased, and many officials showed expressions of relief.
"Excellent! Minister Gu has indeed lived up to my expectations!" Emperor Yongxi finally smiled and clapped his hands in praise, "Decisive in military tactics and swift in attack, this battle has demonstrated the military might of our Great Zhou!"
However, this relaxed atmosphere did not last long. Wang Wenbo, the Grand Censor and representative of the peace faction, stepped forward and bowed, holding his jade tablet: "Your Majesty, although Duke Gu has won this battle, the Battle of Wild Wolf Valley has likely thoroughly enraged the Rong and Di tribes. The Rong and Di tribes are known for their vindictiveness, and having suffered such a heavy blow, their main force will certainly not let the matter rest. If they unite with more tribes and launch a large-scale southward attack, even greater flames of war will surely rise on the border. I believe that we should take advantage of this great victory to send envoys to negotiate with the Rong and Di tribes, explaining the advantages and disadvantages, and perhaps we can turn hostility into friendship, preventing the border people from suffering the pain of war again."
As soon as he finished speaking, several civil officials immediately chimed in, emphasizing the losses caused by the war and the devastation of the borders.
"Lord Wang, you are mistaken!" Li Chongxu, the Vice Privy Councilor and Marquis of Zhongyong, retorted loudly. He was a staunch advocate of war and a comrade-in-arms of Gu Yangui. "The Rong and Di tribes fear our power but do not cherish our virtue! The victory at Wild Wolf Valley proves that they are all bark and no bite! If we were to offer them amnesty now, it would be tantamount to showing weakness and would only embolden them! Only by gathering a large army and delivering a thunderous blow, thoroughly inflicting pain and fear upon them, can we secure ten years of peace on the border!"
"Lord Li! War is not child's play! Once the army moves, supplies are wasted and countless people die! The best strategy is to subdue the enemy without fighting!"
"Lord Wang! Peace and security can only bring temporary respite. Only by completely eliminating the border troubles can we ensure the eternal stability of our empire!"
Both sides stuck to their own arguments, arguing endlessly. Emperor Yongxi, seated on the dragon throne, gradually lost his smile, his gaze sweeping over the red-faced ministers with a deep intensity. He knew this was not merely a debate about war or peace, but a power struggle among various factions within the court.
"Enough." The emperor finally spoke, his voice not loud, but carrying an undeniable authority, and the hall immediately fell silent. "In the battle of Wild Wolf Valley, Minister Gu has proven that the Rongdi are not invincible. However, Wang Wenbo's words also have merit. We must guard against them resorting to desperate measures and gathering their main force to retaliate."
He paused for a moment, his gaze sweeping across the room before finally settling on Duke Zhang Wei of England, who had remained silent: "Duke Zhang Wei, you are a veteran of three reigns and an expert in military affairs. In your opinion, what should be done?"
Duke Zhang Wei of Yingguo, his hair and beard all white, but his eyes still sharp, stepped forward slowly, his voice steady: "Your Majesty, this old minister believes that what Marquis Li and Lord Wang said is all reasonable. However, the initiative is no longer in our hands. Whether the Rong and Di tribes will launch a full-scale attack is not something I can decide by sending an envoy. The best course of action now is to follow the example of Emperor Taizu and Emperor Taizong and adopt the strategy of 'using war to promote peace and using peace to consolidate war'."
He paused, then continued, “Immediately select a capable general to oversee the military and political affairs of the northern border, gather superior forces, and deploy them along the border, preparing for a decisive battle. At the same time, spread the word that if the various Rong and Di tribes are willing to submit, our dynasty can open border markets and grant them a livelihood. If they insist on invading, then strike them down decisively! In this way, the initiative in war and peace can be in our hands. Whether to fight or make peace on the border can be decided solely by Your Majesty's divine will, rather than depending on the greed of the Rong and Di.”
These wise and insightful words on governing the country took into account both military initiative and political flexibility, and most of the ministers in the hall nodded in agreement.
Emperor Yongxi nodded slightly, clearly agreeing with the suggestion: "The Duke of Yingguo is wise and experienced in governing the country; his words are excellent. Then, in your opinion, who is suitable to shoulder this important responsibility of overseeing the northern border and suppressing the Rong and Di tribes?"
This question made the atmosphere, which had just eased, delicate again. Countless gazes, some open and some covert, were cast toward the several generals who were likely to take command, but most people knew in their hearts that with the prestige of the great victory at Wild Wolf Valley, Gu Yangui was almost the only choice.
Without hesitation, Duke Zhang Wei of Yingguo bowed and said, "Your Majesty, Duke Gu Yangui is brave and decisive, well-versed in military strategy, and has a long-standing reputation in the northern army. Moreover, his recent victory is enough to intimidate the Rong and Di tribes. This old minister believes that this important task is best entrusted to Duke Gu."
"I second that proposal!"
"This humble general seconds it!"
Li Chongxu and other military generals, along with some civil officials who supported a hardline approach, all issued statements expressing their support.
Wang Wenbo and the others moved their lips, as if they wanted to say something, but seeing the emperor's expression, they ultimately swallowed their words. They knew that further opposition at this point was pointless.
Emperor Yongxi, without further hesitation, abruptly rose to his feet, his voice echoing throughout the hall: "Draft an edict! Confer upon Duke Zhenguo Gu Yangui the title of Grand Commander of the Northern Frontier Army, overseeing all military and political affairs in the Northern Frontier, granting him the Emperor's Sword, and authorizing him to make decisions on the spot! The Privy Council, the Ministry of War, and the Ministry of Revenue must fully cooperate, mobilizing provisions and weapons to rush to the aid of the Northern Frontier! We must ensure that the Rong and Di tribes know the mighty power of our Great Zhou Dynasty, which is inviolable!"
"Your Majesty is wise!"
Amidst thunderous cheers and shouts, the selection of the Grand Marshal for the Northern Expedition was finalized. A larger-scale military operation was about to begin.
The imperial edict spread throughout the court and the country at top speed, and naturally it also reached the Duke of Zhenguo's mansion.
Su Wanrou was checking Mingxuan's homework when the steward Gu Zhong almost stumbled in, his face a mixture of excitement and worry: "Madam! News has come from the palace that His Majesty has issued an edict to promote the Duke to Grand General of the Northern Frontier Army, overseeing the military and political affairs of the Northern Frontier, and bestowing upon him the Emperor's Sword. This... this means he is to lead the army into battle!"
Su Wanrou's hand trembled slightly as she held the brush, and a drop of ink fell onto the rice paper, quickly spreading. She slowly put down the brush; although she had been mentally prepared, her heart still sank when the moment actually arrived.
Grand Commander-in-Chief, wielding the Emperor's sword, and possessing the power to make arbitrary decisions... Behind this supreme glory and power lies an immense responsibility and unpredictable risks. This means that her husband will no longer be facing a small enemy force, but rather the main force that the Rong and Di tribes may be gathering, a major battle concerning the fate of the nation.
"I understand." She tried her best to keep her voice steady. "Uncle Zhong, everything in the manor remains the same. Do not panic because of rumors. You must be careful with your words and actions and not talk about state affairs."
"Yes, this old servant understands." Seeing his mistress so calm, Gu Zhong felt somewhat relieved and respectfully withdrew.
Su Wanrou walked to the window, gazing at the withering plants in the courtyard. Autumn seemed to instantly permeate her heart. She remembered his words the night before he left the capital: "Jiaojiao, guard our home well." Now, she had to do even better.
In the following days, the Duke's mansion did not panic despite the outside commotion. On the contrary, under Su Wanrou's leadership, things became even more orderly. She knew that the stability of the mansion at this moment was the greatest support she could give to her husband on the front lines. She strictly disciplined the servants, declined most visitors, and focused solely on managing household affairs and raising Mingxuan.
Meanwhile, she began to make preparations discreetly. She summoned Gu Zhong and several trusted stewards to inventory the treasury, storing a portion of easily convertible gold, silver, and valuables separately for unforeseen circumstances. She knew that once a major war broke out, the rear would not be secure, and being better prepared would always provide more peace of mind.
Mingxuan seemed to sense the different atmosphere, becoming even more obedient and studying and practicing calligraphy with extra diligence. However, at night, he clung even more to Su Wanrou, sometimes murmuring "Daddy" in his sleep.
Su Wanrou hugged him and gently comforted him, "Father is a great hero. He went to protect our home. Mingxuan, you must be brave like your father."
"Yes!" Xiao Mingxuan nodded emphatically, trying his best to make a strong expression on his little face.
In the stillness of the night, Su Wanrou unfolded the letter paper once more. This time, she didn't write about mundane matters. She knew all too well that this journey would be of utmost importance.
"My lord, all is well in the capital. Mingxuan is making progress, I am in good health, and everything in the household is going smoothly. Do not worry. His Majesty has entrusted you with this important task, which is both a sign of trust and a test. My lord is skilled in both literature and military strategy, and I am sure you will achieve complete success. However, war is a dangerous matter, so I earnestly hope that you will take good care of yourself. When you are on the battlefield, do not worry about me or Mingxuan. While I am in the capital, I will burn incense and pray every day, waiting for your triumphant return. I will take care of everything at home and will not let you have any worries. This letter is short, but my feelings are deep. Please take good care of yourself. Sincerely, Wanrou."
There were no sentimental worries like those of a young couple, only the profound understanding and unwavering support of a duchess. She buried her concerns and anxieties deep within, conveying only her strongest and most reliable side to him through words. She knew that when this letter arrived, it might be just before a great war broke out, and her few words might become a source of reassurance in his heart.
After sealing the letter, she summoned her trusted servants and solemnly instructed them to deliver it safely to the Duke as quickly as possible.
The Northern Frontier, the Yunzhou Commander's Mansion.
Gu Yangui knelt to receive the imperial edict, his expression calm, neither joyful nor sorrowful. He had long anticipated this outcome.
"Your Majesty, I have returned from my banquet and received your imperial decree to express my gratitude. I will certainly do my utmost to eliminate border troubles in order to repay Your Majesty's great kindness!"
After seeing off the angels, only he and a few key generals remained in the vast hall of the commander's mansion. The atmosphere was solemn and heavy.
The huge map of the northern border hanging on the wall was covered with various markings. These markings represented areas where enemy forces might be concentrated, strategic passes, and our own defensive lines and attack routes.
Gu Yangui walked to the map, pointed to several key locations, and began to issue a series of commands in a steady and powerful voice:
"General Li, your troops are to be moved to Luoyan Pass within three days, with deep trenches and high walls. Without my order, you are not to retreat even a single step!"
"Zhao Qing, expand the scout deployment area. I need to know the latest movements of the Rongdi royal court's main force!"
"Commodity officer, double-check the inventory to ensure the army's needs for three months! Subsequent supplies must be delivered on time!"
Each command was clear and unambiguous, and the generals obeyed with unwavering resolve. Looking at their commander's towering figure, they were filled with confidence. The victory at Wolf Valley had brought the Duke's prestige to its zenith.
After the troop roll was completed, the generals departed to prepare. A personal guard delivered a letter from home in the capital. Gu Yangui opened it, saw the familiar, delicate handwriting, and read the contents of the letter. A barely perceptible curve appeared at the corner of his usually stern lips.
"I will take care of everything at home and will ensure that my husband has no worries."
A short sentence, yet it carried immense weight. He could almost see that seemingly delicate figure, calmly supporting everything in that vast mansion in the capital. With such a wife, what more could a husband ask for?
He carefully folded the letter and tucked it away close to his body. Then, he turned his gaze back to the huge map of the North, his eyes sharp as knives.
The troop roll was complete, and the battle was about to begin. This great war, concerning the fate of the nation and the future of his own family, was about to be personally initiated by him. The direction the banners pointed would be the direction he would fight for.
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