Chapter 448: Chapter 455: Eager to Try
 

Especially Han Yu, after a few victorious minor trials of his military strategy, was even excited and eager at the news that Zhao Fan was about to lead an attack. He thought that prevailing when forces were evenly matched was no significant feat, but achieving victory when the odds were heavily stacked against you—that was truly grasping the essence of “The Art of War”. Previously, he could only sit and study military tactics, knowing that talking about war on paper was ultimately just theory. Now, finally, he had the chance to apply his skills—what did a bit of danger matter!

Knowing that Zhao Fan was preparing a major offensive, although Liu Xiu didn’t seem as eager as Han Yu, he was still fairly composed. After all, he had encountered countless dangers on this campaign; if he hadn’t stayed composed, he would have been scared to death long ago. However, such a major issue couldn’t be taken lightly, and he immediately gathered his generals and advisors to discuss a secure strategy.

But most others weren’t as composed as Han Yu and Liu Xiu; after all, the enemy outnumbered them several times over. Even though they had scored a few minor victories recently, this couldn’t conceal their greatest disadvantage in the war—that this battle would be brutal, even if they didn’t lose.

“General, let’s retreat,” a soldier who was somewhat intimidated by the enemy’s strength said. “The troops sent by the brigand Zhao Fan outnumber us by several times. Even if General Han is adept at military strategy, it’s impossible to overcome them. It’d be better to retreat for now and preserve our strength, to await the day when we have the capability to counter the brigand,” he suggested, only to be immediately countered.

“Nonsense! Retreating without a fight, is that not the act of a coward?! Besides, our morale is high while the enemy’s is low. Even if we’re outmatched in numbers, with General Han leading us, we might be able to defeat the enemy. Even in defeat, we’d have our honor. I refuse to act like a coward without guts!”

“What defines a coward? Anyone who charges into a battle they know they can’t win, making a pointless sacrifice, is even more despicable than a coward. Even if you don’t care about your own life, think of your wife and child at home. Is such a worthless sacrifice really worth it? I also believe we should save our strength and withdraw. That’s called recognizing the reality! Don’t assume we’re invincible just because we won a few minor battles. Those were only small enemy detachments. When the full force attacks, it’s not so easy to hold them back. Don’t overestimate some people’s abilities,” another retorted.

Han Yu, hearing this person speak so, swept a sharp glance over him. This person had always been on good terms with Yin Shi and being opposed to him was expected, but it was inappropriate to voice such discouraging opinions at this time. It was an obvious blow to morale, a “noble” excuse that was clearly driven by fear, exaggerating the enemy’s strength.

Although displeased, Han Yu said nothing. His current status and social position did not warrant stooping to argue with those feeble-minded and timid. Moreover, he knew Liu Xiu’s stance; this battle was inevitable and there was no possibility of retreat. If one lacked even that courage, they were undeserving of the position they yearned for.

Even though there were a few timid and cowardly people, they were in the minority. Liu Xi had a good eye for people. So, before Han Yu could express his dissatisfaction, someone already retorted against that person’s words: “Even if we were to retreat, we should put up a fight first. The outcome is not yet decided, so don’t utter such discouraging talk. It’s just an excuse for your own fears. If you’re so afraid of death, why join the army at all? You would be better off staying home and caring for your child!”

“What did you say! You brute who only knows force, think a bit more. There’s nothing shameful about withdrawing now; it’s just a matter of strategy. Haven’t we said we’ll take our revenge on the brigand when our strength suffices!”

…

With so many people, statements flew back and forth, the argument becoming remarkably intense. It was only after listening for a while that Liu Xiu interjected to stop them: “Enough, stop arguing. I’ve already made my decision—we’ll accept this battle!”

Liu Xiu, addressing those who had insisted on retreating, said: “Although we’re currently at a disadvantage, that doesn’t mean we have no chance of victory. If it were so, I would not hesitate to lead a retreat, as senseless sacrifice is utterly pointless. But the situation is different now; victory or defeat is still uncertain, it’s just a matter of how much of a chance we have. If you didn’t have the courage to rise up and oppose the Imperial Court, why start in the first place? Just as that saying goes, if you lack the guts, you might as well go home and hold your child!”

When Liu Xiu said that, those who were in favor of retreat visibly reddened, hanging their heads in silence. After all, My Lord had made his decision, and their opposition would be ineffectual. Some others were, however, roused to a sense of spirited determination.

After speaking, Liu Xiu paused before continuing: “That’s all I want to say. If anyone dares utter another word lacking in spirit, that dampens everyone’s mood, or even wavers the soldiers’ morale, I, Liu Xiu, will not be lenient. The military law will be enforced!”

Liu Xiu’s words were followed by a report from outside: several people resembling enemy spies had been caught disseminating rumors in the camp to disintegrate soldier morale. Without questioning, Liu Xiu ordered them to be dragged out and beaten to death as a warning to others.

Seeing Liu Xiu take such decisive action, no one dared to speak any further of retreating. The tent was quiet for a moment—after all, Liu Xiu usually handled things gently, rarely resorting to such direct, violent methods like today, and often persuaded people with reason.

Liu Xiu acted in this way to intimidate everyone, as not only one or two people had earlier spoken of retreating and uttering those dejecting comments. In extreme situations, severe measures are necessary to suppress those with treacherous intent, to prevent chaos at critical moments.

Han Yu was very satisfied with Liu Xiu’s handling and attitude. With Liu Xiu’s firm support, he could command without concern, leading soldiers in the vanguard to fight.

“Alright, let’s not discuss the issue of whether to fight or not. I’ve already made that decision. Rather, let’s discuss how we should confront the enemy’s assault and defend Yiyang City,” Liu Xiu said, turning to Han Yu.

“Xiu Qi, you’re familiar with military tactics and have won several battles against the enemy. You’re the most experienced in this area. Tell us your thoughts,” Liu Xiu asked Han Yu first for his opinion and advice, admitting that he was not without concern about the enemy’s attack. It was seeing Han Yu so calm, as if the enemy’s imminent full-scale attack was nothing to worry about, that had influenced him to relax. At such a critical juncture, he put past doubts and grudges aside, and the two placed much trust in each other.

Han Yu had some ideas in mind, but tactics aimed at winning against greater numbers had to rely on the element of surprise. Among those present, he could not fully trust everyone, so he mentioned only a general idea, deliberately omitting some secrets, and even purposely floated some misleading thoughts. Yet, whatever secrets he had, he would definitely not conceal from Liu Xiu.