Strategy for the Revitalization of the Late Ming Dynasty

Chapter 326: Praising and Calculating

"Thanks to the brilliant foresight of our military advisors, our army has been harassing the Ming troops outside the city for the past ten days, significantly reducing their vigilance.

In my opinion, they probably think our army only dares to conduct small-scale probing attacks and not launch a real night attack."

Yang Gao cupped his hands together and reported with a smile on his face, his tone carrying a hint of unconcealed pride:

"With your planning and strategy for tonight's night raid, coupled with the heroic fighting of our soldiers, we will surely be victorious and achieve immediate success, catching those unprepared Ming troops by surprise!"

During this period, he was attentive and attentive, and he also came up with some good ideas from time to time, and he had already successfully won Fan Wencheng's favor.

Yang Gao is not only good at flattering, but also has some real skills. He can get along well with everyone in the army, not just by sweet talk.

After hearing this, Fan Wencheng nodded slightly, but stopped.

He stood on the city wall, looking at the Ming army camp not far away. As night fell, the sparse lights in the Ming camp were faintly visible in the distance, and the faint sounds of whistles seemed to be there and not there.

Fan Wencheng's brows slowly furrowed, and a vague sense of uneasiness welled up in his heart. After pondering for a moment, he asked:
"How are the preparations for tonight's night raid going?"

Yang Gao hurriedly stepped forward and reported in a steady tone:

“Returning to the country, the six armies, totaling more than 5,700 men, have all been deployed.

Among them, Suo Kangtu led 1,100 troops each, all under the Manchu standard, and attacked the weakly defended western side of the Ming army camp, pretending to be the main attack direction in order to attract the attention of the Ming army.

"At the same time, Chen Youshi and Zhang Zhong will each lead over a thousand soldiers and launch a surprise attack from the eastern flank of the Ming army. They will fly the banner of Jihalang and appear on the eastern front alongside my own, disguising themselves as our main surprise attack force.

In this way, the Ming army will inevitably transfer its reserve troops to the east for defense in the chaos."

Yang Gao paused, and seeing that Fan Wencheng looked normal, he continued:

"As for the main attack direction, I and Jibai Beile will lead two thousand soldiers and horses to attack the Emperor Ming's central camp from the middle.

This strategy was incredibly bold. The Ming army may have anticipated our night attack, but they never imagined that our target would be the Ming Emperor himself.

Once the main force of the Ming army outside the city is attracted and tied down by the east and west wings, I will be able to take advantage of the opportunity and directly attack the center, and I will definitely catch them off guard!"

As Yang Gao spoke, he secretly observed Fan Wencheng's expression.

Seeing that Fan Wencheng still hadn't expressed his opinion, he continued to add:
"General Kong Li will lead over a thousand soldiers to support the main force leaving the city for the night attack. They will be responsible for cutting off the Ming army's retreat and ensuring an unhurried retreat. This way, the night attack will be flawless."

Yang Gao felt that this plan was flawless and couldn't help showing a bit of pride.

However, after listening to it, Fan Wencheng remained unmoved, and the wrinkles on his face became even deeper, which made people feel uneasy.

Yang Gao's heart tightened slightly, and he couldn't help feeling confused. He didn't know if he had said something wrong, or even whether he should continue to report.

After a moment of silence, Fan Wencheng slowly spoke in a low and solemn tone:
"General Yang, these are all the field troops I can mobilize. If something goes wrong in this battle and this force is completely wiped out, can Gaizhou City still be defended?"

This question was like a wake-up call, completely shattering Yang Gao's excitement.

He looked embarrassed and hesitated for a moment before saying:

"Your concern is indeed true... However, I believe that the morale of the Ming army is high, while that of ours is low. If we do not launch a surprise attack at night to disrupt the enemy's deployment, it will be even more difficult to restore their morale.

Although this battle is dangerous, if we can succeed in one fell swoop, it will not only boost the morale of the army but also deter the enemy."

Fan Wencheng raised his eyes and glanced at him, his eyes deep and cold.

He stood with his hands behind his back, his eyes fixed on the distant darkness, as if he was thinking or weighing something.

"You're right." He finally spoke, his voice slow but majestic:

"A night attack is necessary. Otherwise, not only will our army's morale be lost, but even the court will lose confidence in us. But you must know that if we lose this battle, the consequences will be disastrous."

"Yes!" Yang Gao quickly clasped his fists in agreement.

On the city wall, the cold wind blew up Fan Wencheng's robe, but his expression remained solemn.

This battle not only concerns the morale of the army, but also his own status in the court.

If he failed, he would not only have to bear the consequences of defeat, but he would also be charged with "harming the country". The Qing court was ruthless, and any mistake could make him a scapegoat.

Fan Wencheng sighed deeply and whispered to himself, "I hope I can win this time."

Fan Wencheng had not originally planned to mobilize so many troops for this night attack. At the military meeting, his passionate speeches were half true and half false, mostly to persuade Dorgon and other generals.

But when it comes to specific deployment, the situation becomes complicated.

After all, the facts are before us. Without sufficient troops, it is impossible to achieve the two goals of "luring the enemy deep into our territory" and "directly attacking Zhu Cilang's central army camp" at the same time.

The strength of the Ming army outside the city had long been witnessed by the generals. Without sufficient preparation, it would be like hitting a rock with an egg, and it would be difficult to end the battle.

Fan Wencheng knew very well that there was no foolproof plan on the battlefield, and even carefully planned actions could not completely eliminate variables.

Although the Ming army outside the city could not predict the specific time of the Qing army's night attack, if the operation failed, at least it would not lead to large-scale casualties.

As for the possibility of the entire army being annihilated, he almost ruled it out in his mind. Given the current situation, as long as no fatal mistakes were made, the Qing army's defense of the city would remain unbreakable.

On the other hand, if this night attack had been a complete success, the situation would have been completely different.

The morale of the Qing army will inevitably be high. After suffering heavy losses, the Ming army outside the city will be unable to launch another attack in the short term, and the safety of Gaizhou City will also be greatly guaranteed.

This result was too tempting for Fan Wencheng. Even though he felt vaguely uneasy, he still couldn't suppress his anticipation for victory.

Even if we take a step back and say that the night attack ended in a draw - killing one thousand enemies and losing eight hundred of our own - Fan Wencheng could accept it.

Maintaining the status quo is already the worst-case scenario. If the Qing army can seize the opportunity to defeat some of the elite Ming troops, or even force Zhu Cilang to temporarily withdraw his troops, it will be a morale boost for the Qing army.

As for failure, Fan Wencheng had considered it.

However, judging from the military discussions, most Qing army generals were optimistic about the night attack plan and believed that the possibility of failure was extremely low.

Otherwise, it would be impossible for most people to agree with such a risky action. At least in their eyes, the risk of this war is bearable.

Fan Wencheng's eyes were deep, and his expression concealed a bit of anxiety. He whispered to the general beside him:

"Although Zhu Cilang has been deceived and the Ming army has clearly relaxed its vigilance, we must be extremely cautious in tonight's operation and avoid any carelessness. Success or failure depends on this one move."

Seeing Fan Wencheng's serious expression, Yang Gao was suddenly confused.

He bowed quickly and said solemnly:

"If it weren't for the national hero's appreciation and promotion, I would have long been buried in the market. How could I have the position I have today? Yang Gao will never forget the national hero's kindness in giving me a new life!

If you have any orders tonight, I will risk my life and never hesitate."

Fan Wencheng nodded slightly, but his eyes were still a little complicated.

He knew in his heart that the plan for this night attack had been well arranged long ago, and everything from the deployment of troops to the marching route and the timing of the raid had been carefully considered.

The reason he called Yang Gao to repeat the plan was just to make sure there were no omissions. However, as Yang Gao was repeating the plan point by point, he suddenly thought of a key point - Zhu Cilang!

Fan Wencheng's brows were deeply furrowed. There was indeed a possibility of attacking the Ming army camp at night, defeating the enemy's main force, and achieving a complete victory, but he had to admit that this goal was not easy to achieve.

The Ming army had far more troops than the Qing army, and their morale was extremely high. It would not be easy to inflict heavy damage on the Ming army by just a night attack.

This is exactly why Fan Wencheng is always uneasy.

However, if the goal is adjusted from "defeating the enemy" to "repelling Zhu Cilang", things may be much simpler.

Fan Wencheng quickly reviewed the plan in his mind. He realized that if he made only a slight adjustment in the action, he might be able to give the Qing army a psychological advantage.

"If we can take advantage of the chaos of the night attack to directly threaten Zhu Cilang himself, the situation will be very different." Fan Wencheng pondered.

He envisioned an extremely risky strategy: sending a brave general like Yang Gao to lead dozens of elite soldiers to infiltrate the enemy camp and launch a "decapitation operation."

It is not necessary to kill Zhu Cilang, but just to pose enough threat to force him to retreat.

Once Zhu Cilang withdrew from the battlefield, the Ming army would be leaderless and its morale would inevitably plummet.

Even if the Qing army failed to win a decisive victory, this action was enough to stabilize the situation and even turn defeat into victory.

"This plan is feasible." Fan Wencheng thought to himself.

He looked up at Yang Minggao, and his tone softened a little:

"In tonight's battle, the key to victory may not lie in the number of soldiers and generals, but in whether we can deliver a fatal blow to the enemy commander. Yang Gao, this mission is best performed by you."

Upon hearing this, Yang Gao clenched his fists and responded in a loud voice:
"I will definitely live up to the trust placed in me by my countrymen!"

Fan Wencheng nodded and continued to instruct:
"The team you lead shouldn't be too large. You must select the most agile and composed warriors. Remember, don't fight too long. You have only one target—Zhu Cilang.

It is imperative to fight quickly and decisively, and withdraw quickly after the charge."

Yang Gao nodded heavily, but his heart was still unsettled. Regardless of success or failure, this battle would become a key node on the southern battlefield.

People in high positions enjoy supreme power, wealth and glory, but what they cherish most is their own lives.

Fan Wencheng, a man well versed in human nature, was certain that even Zhu Cilang, possessing extraordinary courage and insight, would find it difficult to disobey this rule. In the midst of political intrigue, life was the ultimate bottom line in all decisions.

"Yang Gao, that's not what I was talking about." Fan Wencheng sighed softly, his expression showing a hint of worry.

"I am worried about you."

These sudden words left Yang Gao confused for a moment. He lowered his head and pondered for a moment, still not daring to hastily speculate on the deeper meaning, so he asked cautiously:

"Master, I am ignorant and don't understand what you mean. Please enlighten me..."

"Well, well." Fan Wencheng shook his head slightly, his eyes complicated.

He turned around and waved to the accompanying generals and guards, signaling them to withdraw. When there was no one around, he spoke again:
"I'm worried that you'll end up being Jihalang's tool to atone for your sins. If you risk your life to raid Zhu Cilang's camp, the credit you gain might end up in Jihalang's hands."

As soon as these words were spoken, Yang Gao's face froze and a trace of panic flashed across his eyes.

"Master...you mean...what did Jihalang say to you behind your back?" he asked tentatively, his voice rising a little.

Fan Wencheng nodded slowly, a look of helplessness and weariness on his face:

"Yes, he did threaten me. Although he didn't say it explicitly, the gist of it is this. If the situation gets bad, he'll need someone to fill the gap, and the most suitable person is you."

Yang Gao was struck by lightning when he heard this, and he stumbled involuntarily. Although he was not a scheming person, he knew that if Ji Halang intended to plot against him, he would have no power to fight back.

If his achievements were robbed, or even his life was in danger, how could he fight back? He was just a general who had gained his position through military exploits. How could he possibly compete with the Manchu nobles?

Seeing his expression suddenly change, Fan Wencheng was silent for a moment before saying in a low voice:

"Do you know why Jihalang insisted on having you and his trusted nephew raid Zhu Cilang's camp?"

Yang Gao was stunned. After he came to his senses, he didn't dare to answer. His eyes were full of doubt and anxiety.

Fan Wencheng did not wait for his response and continued:

"His nephew is indeed a member of the royal family, but in terms of seniority, ability, and even popularity, he is not capable of standing on his own. Having you accompany him not only gives him an opportunity to take the credit, but also makes you the one who takes the blame.

If it succeeds, the glory goes to him; if it fails, your life will be yours."

Fan Wencheng spoke while slowly shaking his head, his tone filled with unconcealable fatigue and resentment:

“I cannot bear to see you being used by others, and I don’t want to see you die in vain.

Now, I can only tell you about this matter, and you have to make your own decision on how to deal with it."

Cold sweat broke out on Yang Gao's forehead. He forced himself to calm down, but found that his mind was in a mess.

Fan Wencheng's words were like a knife, exposing the naked truth. He couldn't help but murmur in a low voice:

"But...if that's the case, how should I deal with it? Patriarch, do you have any good advice?"

Fan Wencheng looked at Yang Gao with a complicated expression, and he sighed slightly:
"Yang Gao, on the battlefield, intrigue and deception are not uncommon, but since I have told you all this, I hope you will consider it carefully and protect yourself."

Yang Gao was silent for a long time, and finally asked in a low voice:
"Guoshi, if I don't want to follow Jihalang's wishes, is there any way out?"

Fan Wencheng looked solemn and said slowly:

"There may be a way out... but it's dangerous at every step. Now that Jihalang has made this move, it will be difficult for you to escape unscathed.

But if you can control the situation during the surprise attack and prevent his trusted nephew from completely taking control, you may be able to survive."

He paused, a trace of sadness in his eyes:
"However, this also depends on your courage and luck."

Yang Gao gritted his teeth and clenched his fists until they turned white. He had never felt so oppressive by fate. He was just a member of the Qing army. When had he ever dared to imagine that he would have to face such a complicated political struggle?

However, he also understood that at this point, there was no other way but to face the challenge head-on.

Seeing his expression change, Fan Wencheng softened his tone a little:
"Yang Gao, you've always been smart, and I believe you can make the wisest choice. But remember, saving your life is paramount.

After all, only by staying alive can you have a chance to turn things around. If you give up easily, then no matter how great the achievement is, you will not be able to achieve it."

The night wind blew, and the candlelight in the tent swayed slightly. Yang Gao suddenly felt an unprecedented chill, not only from the coolness of the night, but also from the unpredictable and dangerous human hearts on the battlefield.

"Don't worry, sir. I will act with caution." He replied in a low voice, his tone filled with complex emotions, mixed with a hint of unwillingness and determination.

Fan Wencheng nodded, as if he wanted to say something else, but in the end he just waved his hand:
"Go ahead and get ready. The outcome will be clear at daybreak."

Yang Gao bowed deeply, turned around and walked out of the tent. Although his steps were steady, his heart was in turmoil.

(End of this chapter)