612. Different Talk At Lingling & Jibei,

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"I will do my best, General Guan Yu," Chen Dao replied confidently. With the reinforcements now in place, the combined army of 180,000 men prepared for the attack to capture Lingling. Kuai Yue convened a war council that evening, laying out the strategy that would bring Zhou Yu to his knees.

"Our goal," Kuai Yue began, "is not simply to breach Lingling's defenses but to outmaneuver Zhou Yu. He will anticipate all kinds of assault, so we must give him something he does not expect and will never expect to catch him off guard."

As the council discussed tactics deep into the night, the stage was set for a confrontation that would test the mettle of both sides. The battle for Lingling was far from over, but with fresh troops, sound strategy, and unwavering resolve, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei felt that they could finally break through Lingling.

On the other hand, Inside the main tower of Lingling's northern wall, the atmosphere was tense as Zhou Yu stood at the head of a large wooden table, his hands resting firmly on its surface.

The dim light from the torches flickered across the room, casting shadows on the faces of Cheng Pu, Han Dang, and Zhou Tai, who listened intently to their commander. Zhou Yu's sharp eyes scanned the map spread before him, depicting the layout of Lingling and the surrounding region.

"These past weeks, we've launched numerous skirmishes against Liu Bei's forces, yet they've shown remarkable restraint," Zhou Yu began, his tone even but commanding. "At first, I thought it was because of fatigue or dwindling supplies. But now, with the arrival of reinforcements, the truth is clear. They were waiting—preparing for this moment."

Cheng Pu, the seasoned veteran, stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Reinforcements are one thing, but the way they've bided their time suggests more than just additional troops. They're planning something. A shift in strategy, perhaps?"

Zhou Yu nodded. "Precisely. And I suspect one of Liu Bei's trusted advisors has joined Guan Yu and Zhang Fei. Someone with enough intellect and wisdom to rival my own and coordinate a more calculated approach."

Han Dang leaned forward, his brow furrowed. "If that's the case, we must act swiftly. Shall we strike their camp again, catch them off guard before they can regroup?"

Zhou Tai, standing silently until now, finally spoke. His voice was calm but firm. "That could backfire. If they've been waiting for reinforcements, they've likely bolstered their defenses in anticipation of an attack. A failed offensive could weaken us instead."

Cheng Pu nodded in agreement. "Then perhaps we should focus on fortifying Lingling further. If they intend to lay siege to the city, we must ensure our walls are impenetrable."

Zhou Yu tapped his finger on the map, his mind racing. "Fortification is necessary, but it will not be enough. Guan Yu and Zhang Fei are not fools, and if they're backed by a strategist, they'll have contingencies in place. We need to know who this advisor is and what they're planning."

"Spies?" Han Dang suggested.

"Exactly," Zhou Yu confirmed. "We need to infiltrate their camp and gather intelligence. We must learn the strengths and weaknesses of their reinforcements, identify their leader, and disrupt their plans before they can act."

Zhou Tai crossed his arms. "Who will you send, Commander? Such a mission is fraught with risk. If our spies are caught—"

"They won't be," Zhou Yu interrupted. "I'll select individuals skilled in subterfuge, ones who can blend seamlessly into the chaos of their camp. But that's only one part of our plan."

He gestured to the map, drawing their attention to a series of markings outside Lingling's walls. "Here, here, and here, these are key supply routes leading to their camp. If we cut these off, we'll force them into desperation. A hungry army is a vulnerable army."

Cheng Pu nodded approvingly. "A sound strategy. But what if they've anticipated such a move? Reinforcements mean they've likely brought additional supplies."

"True," Zhou Yu admitted, "but no army can sustain itself indefinitely. Even if they have reserves, disrupting their logistics will put them on edge. The more pressure we apply, the more likely they are to make a mistake."

Han Dang, ever pragmatic, voiced a concern. "If we spread our forces too thin to disrupt their supply lines and fortify Lingling, we risk weakening our main defenses."

"That's why we must be precise," Zhou Yu replied. "General Cheng Pu, you'll lead a contingent to fortify the northern wall and oversee the city's defenses. General Han Dang, you'll take a smaller force to harass their supply lines. Strike quickly and retreat before they can retaliate. Zhou Tai, you'll oversee the selection and deployment of spies into their camp. I'll coordinate all efforts from here and adjust our strategy as needed."

The three generals exchanged glances, their expressions resolute. Zhou Yu's plan was ambitious, but they trusted his leadership. One by one, they nodded their assent.

"It shall be done, Commander," Cheng Pu said, rising to his feet. "Lingling will not fall."

As the meeting concluded, the generals dispersed to carry out their orders, leaving Zhou Yu alone in the tower. He gazed out over the city, the distant sounds of soldiers drilling echoing through the night.

Though confident in his abilities, Zhou Yu knew the days ahead would be critical. The battle for Lingling was not just a clash of armies but a test of wits, and the outcome would shape the fate of the region.

Meanwhile, within the encampment outside Lingling, the mood was one of cautious optimism. The arrival of reinforcements had bolstered morale, but the soldiers knew that the true test lay ahead. Inside the command tent, Kuai Yue, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Chen Dao gathered to finalize their strategy.

Kuai Yue stood before the map table, his expression calm but focused. "Zhou Yu is no doubt aware of our reinforcements by now. He'll be preparing to counter us, possibly even launching preemptive strikes."

"We should strike first," Zhang Fei growled, his impatience evident. "Show them we're not afraid to take the fight to them!"

"Patience, Third Brother," Guan Yu interjected, his tone measured. "A rash attack plays into Zhou Yu's hands. We need to draw him out, force him to overcommit."

Kuai Yue nodded in agreement. "Precisely. Zhou Yu's strength lies in his ability to control the battlefield. If we can disrupt that, we can create an opening."

Chen Dao, who had been listening intently, spoke up. "What if we feign weakness? Let them believe we're still recovering, that our reinforcements haven't fully integrated yet. Zhou Yu might be tempted to strike, and we can use that to our advantage."

Kuai Yue considered the suggestion, his eyes narrowing thoughtfully. "A feigned retreat could work, but it's a risky gambit. If Zhou Yu sees through it, we could lose valuable ground."

"Then we'll need to sell it convincingly," Chen Dao replied. "Pull back some of our forces, leave just enough to make it look like we're spread thin. Meanwhile, the main force lies in wait, ready to strike when Zhou Yu overextends."

Guan Yu stroked his beard, his gaze steady. "It's bold, but it could work. What do you think, Master Kuai Yue?"

Kuai Yue nodded slowly. "Very well. We'll proceed with Chen Dao's plan. General Guan Yu, you'll command the feigned retreat. General Zhang Fei, you and I will lead the main force and coordinate the counterattack. Chen Dao, your role will be crucial which is to position your troops to cut off Zhou Yu's retreat once we spring the trap."

With the plan set, the commanders dispersed to prepare their troops. As the camp buzzed with activity, Kuai Yue couldn't shake a sense of foreboding. The battle ahead would test not only their strength but their resolve.

Victory was far from certain, but one thing was clear, that is they would give everything to bring Lingling under Liu Bei's banner.

Meanwhile, Zhou Yu stood once more at the northern wall, his sharp mind analyzing every possible scenario. He knew the coming battle would define the fate of Lingling and possibly the entire region. As the first rays of dawn broke over the horizon, he whispered to himself, "Let the games begin."

To the northeast of Lingling, at Jibei, the Qilin Army had settled for a much-needed rest. After two grueling weeks of marching and crossing the Yellow River from Nanpi, fatigue had crept into the ranks.

Recognizing the importance of keeping his soldiers sharp and ready for the challenges ahead, Lie Fan ordered a temporary halt at Jibei. The city's governor warmly received him, providing the Qilin Army with supplies and accommodations.

As the men rested, Lie Fan took the opportunity to explore the serene surroundings of the governor's castle. The garden, a tranquil haven filled with vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and a pond teeming with koi fish, offered a rare moment of peace amidst the chaos of war.

Lie Fan strolled through the garden with Sima Yi at his side. Though their conversation initially revolved around trivial matters, Sima Yi could sense that his lord had something more significant on his mind.

They came to a stop by the pond, where the koi darted gracefully beneath the water's surface. The soft rustling of leaves and the occasional chirp of birds filled the air. Lie Fan stood in contemplative silence, his gaze fixed on the pond. Sima Yi remained a step behind, patiently awaiting his lord's true purpose for this private walk.

Finally, breaking the silence, Lie Fan spoke. "Zhongda, the end of the year approaches. You know what that means, don't you?"

Sima Yi's expression shifted slightly, a mixture of understanding and anticipation. "Yes, my lord. The time for my marriage to Lady Wannian draws near."

Lie Fan turned to face Sima Yi, his sharp eyes studying him intently. "Are you ready? Not just for the ceremony, but for the responsibilities that come with marrying my sister?"

Without hesitation, Sima Yi responded, his voice steady and filled with conviction. "I am ready, my lord. I have long prepared for this day. My brother, Sima Lang, and I have worked tirelessly to ensure the Sima Clan is prepared to hold this union. We've accumulated resources to make the marriage as grand as it deserves to be, and I promise to devote myself fully to Sister Wannian's happiness."

Lie Fan's serious demeanor softened slightly as he allowed a faint smile to grace his lips. "I've seen the effort you and your brother have put into this, and I respect your dedication. But remember this, Zhongda, money can be replenished, coffers can be filled. What matters to me is how you treat Wannian. As long as you cherish her and honor her, the Lie Clan will repay your efforts twofold."

The weight of the moment hung in the air as Lie Fan's voice grew firmer. "However, if you betray her trust or cause her harm, you must understand the consequences. There will be no forgiveness, Zhongda. My sister's happiness is not negotiable."

Sima Yi met Lie Fan's gaze without flinching. "I understand, my lord. I swear on my honor and the name of the Sima Clan that I will protect and cherish Sister Wannian. She will want for nothing."

Satisfied with Sima Yi's response, Lie Fan nodded. "Good. Then we'll leave it at that." Turning his attention back to the pond, he added, "Let's return. The men need to see their leaders confident and united. There's still much to be done." As they made their way back to the castle, Lie Fan's mind shifted back to the broader challenges at hand.

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Name: Lie Fan

Title: Overlord Of The Central Plains

Age: 32 (199 AD)

Level: 16

Next Level: 462,000

Renown: 1325

Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)

SP: 1,121,700

ATTRIBUTE POINTS

STR: 951 (+20)

VIT: 613 (+20)

AGI: 598 (+10)

INT: 617

CHR: 96

WIS: 519

WILL: 407

ATR Points: 0