Changjin Lake: From Xinxingli to Seoul

Chapter 262 Next Stage Goal: Seize the Aircraft Carrier! (Seeking 10,000 votes daily)
"call out--------"

"Boom! Boom! Boom..."

Amidst continuous explosions and the flashes of incendiary bombs, the surface fortifications of Songaksan Mountain had been completely destroyed by the relentless bombing by the US military, with burning trees and billowing smoke creating a desolate scene.

Inside the Tree Fort Command Post, Gao Daxing calmly received every piece of intelligence and telegram that was transmitted back.

"The commander-in-chief is truly a genius. If I had insisted on holding out to the death, the soldiers would probably have died from the poison gas."

"And this tactic of closing the door to beat the dog is just right, making perfect use of Songyue Mountain's terrain."

Gao Daxing looked at the telegram in his hand and couldn't help but exclaim in admiration.

"Reporting to the Higher Normal School!"

"After intense bombing, the US vanguard has broken through the river and launched an assault on our first pre-designated blocking position!"

"Initial observations indicate approximately 3,000 people are involved, and reinforcements are expected to cross the river later!"

A scout, his face covered in dust, gave a hurried report.

"it is good!"

"Execute the plan as directed by the commander-in-chief and wipe out all these American troops!"

A glint of excitement flashed in Gao Daxing's eyes as he spoke excitedly.

Orders were issued quickly.

The First Division troops, under the command of Gao Daxing, began to "resist step by step" while guarding the pre-designated outer positions.

Relying on the remaining fortifications, shell craters, and charred tree trunks, they employed precise bursts of fire and concealed, short counterattacks.

They inflicted continuous casualties on the US attacking forces while skillfully fighting and retreating.

"They can't hold them off! The Chinese defenses are collapsing!"

Seeing the Chinese People's Volunteer Army retreating continuously and suffering increasing casualties, the US frontline commander roared excitedly.

"Pursue them! Stick with them!"

Don't give them a chance to breathe!

"Deploy smoke grenades to cover the charge, stick to them and keep them at bay, don't let their top artillery be effective!"

Driven by their officers, the American soldiers pounced on the enemy with excitement, like sharks smelling blood.

Smoke grenades were launched one after another, and the pungent white smoke quickly spread, covering the retreat route and hillside of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army.

Under the cover of smoke, the US troops disregarded the complex terrain and charged forward desperately, intending to completely entangle and annihilate the retreating "stragglers".

On the map at the command post, Gao Daxing clearly marked the direction of the advance of the 3,000-strong American vanguard.

They are plunging into the complex area from the mountainside to near the summit of Songaksan, following a pre-designed "decoy" route.

However, due to the effect of the smoke screens, it was extremely difficult to ascertain the exact extent of the US military's 3,000 troops' movements.

However, Wu Wanli's Sky Eye could get closer and see the specific details of the US military attack through the smoke.

Incheon Garrison Command
"Wanli, Yu Congrong and Pinghe have completed their pincer attack, and the American force that penetrated deep into Incheon has been completely annihilated."

"In addition, the US forces attacking Songaksan have been tricked and are now advancing into Songaksan."

"However, this American force was very cunning. They used a lot of smoke grenades to obscure our vision and stayed very close to our troops."

"I guess they were afraid of being bombarded by artillery fire from the top of Songaksan Mountain."

"Furthermore, our scouts have difficulty pinpointing their exact location."

“In this situation, Wanli, your plan to have the assault troops go through tunnels to flank the enemy may be a bit difficult to implement.”

"The fear is that if we get too close, into the gap between two American battalions and companies, we'll end up being surrounded."

"If they go too far and take too long to get there, the US military could discover them in advance and inflict heavy losses on the assault force with artillery fire."

Liu Hanqing handed the battle report to Wu Wanli and said.

"Yu Congrong's situation in Pinghe is simple. Let them launch a fierce attack and then retreat quickly according to plan."

"To give the US military the impression that we fought desperately, but were defeated and that's why we ran away."

"Gao Daxing's situation isn't really a problem."

"The speed of the US military's advance can be roughly calculated, and the approximate range can also be determined."

"Send the coordinates I wrote down to Gao Daxing, and have him direct the assault team to circle around to the coordinates, which will put them roughly behind these three thousand American troops."

"In addition, a reconnaissance team was dispatched with high-powered binoculars and radios to reach the foot of the mountain through tunnels."

"Telegram to Gao Daxing and Lei Gong: Prepare the artillery fire at Songyue Mountain and aim it at the foot of the mountain."

"After the reconnaissance troops saw the American reinforcements coming, they immediately telegraphed Lei Gong and then withdrew."

"We'll use incendiary bombs to inflict a heavy blow on them, and at the same time, create a wall of fire to block their reinforcements."

As Wu Wanli spoke, he handed the coordinates he had just written to Liu Hanqing.

"Yes!"

Upon hearing this, Liu Hanqing dared not delay and quickly took the radio and ran towards it.

....................................

Songyue Mountain, inside the Shubao Command Post
"Teacher Gao, Commander-in-Chief Wu is calling!"

"Based on the intelligence we have provided, he has already deduced the best coordinates for flanking!"

"In addition, Commander-in-Chief Kaka also predicted that the US military might send reinforcements in a desperate attempt to counter-encircle and annihilate our flanking forces!"

Lu Taijian handed the telegram to Gao Daxing and said.

"Okay!"

"Now that the commander-in-chief has pinpointed the location, the rest is easy!"

"Commander Lu, notify all forward troops that the tail-cutting operation is over and the target has been successfully lured into the pre-set area."

"Order all ambush points to immediately disengage using the tunnels and assemble at the pre-designated 'closing point'!"

Gao Daxing looked at Lu Taijian, who looked nervous, and immediately said.

"Yes! Instructor Gao!"

Upon hearing this, Lu Taijian immediately agreed.

…………

Just when the US military felt that it was about to catch up with the main force of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army and engage in close combat to strangle them, the scattered firing points that were still flashing in the smoke screen and putting up a stubborn resistance just a second ago suddenly disappeared mysteriously!

It was as if the Chinese defenders had melted into the smoke and scorched earth.

The American troops missed their target, their momentum stalled, and they could only stare blankly at the increasingly rugged hillside filled with reverse slopes and tunnel exits.

"Where are they?! Damn it, where did they go?!"

The U.S. frontline commander was furious.

Just as the US advance force was thrown into brief chaos due to the disappearance of its target, and the ranks stretched out and the troops scattered.

In an instant, the battlefield situation changed dramatically!

Suddenly, rocks tumbled and soil crumbled in several hidden valleys, crevices in ruins, and several mountain walls that appeared to have been collapsed by artillery fire deep behind the American vanguard!
One after another, the carefully disguised tunnel entrances suddenly opened up!

The elite assault team of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army, which had been waiting for a long time, rushed out like lava erupting from the ground!
They were equipped with submachine guns, carbines, grenades, and some even carried gleaming bayonets.

Their timing and location were absolutely perfect.

It is situated in the gap between the US advance force and subsequent reinforcements and logistical support teams, which is also the rear area that the US military considers "absolutely safe"!

"Kill!"

"Surf the gun and don't kill!"

"loyalty!!!"

The deafening battle cries and the sudden burst of intense firepower instantly tore apart the American offensive formation.

"Da da da da da da da da!"

"Boom! Boom! Boom!"

"Ugh—!"

Bullets rained down on the American column crammed onto the narrow hillside from behind and to the sides.

The grenades were accurately thrown at the heavy machine gun positions and officers' assembly points that the US military had just set up.

The American soldiers didn't have time to turn their guns around, nor could they find any solid cover. They fell in droves in the sudden attack!
"Behind us! Oh my god! There are Chinese people behind us!"

"We're surrounded!"

"God! Did they spring from a crack in a rock?!"

The U.S. frontline commander was terrified. He never imagined that the “runaway soldiers” they were chasing would not be caught and strangled, but instead allow a more lethal force to outflank them!
The once quiet slopes of Songyue Mountain were now filled with the sounds of gunfire, shouts, and screams.

Gao Daxing successfully lured 3,000 American troops into a pre-designed "strangulation trap".

At this moment, a highly skilled force, appearing and disappearing unpredictably and suddenly leaping out of the tunnels, is forming a pincer movement with the main force, which is feigning a retreat.

The U.S. advance forces were plunged into unprecedented chaos and panic, and the core position of Songyue Mountain instantly became their battleground.

....................................

US 6th Brigade Command

"Sir, our troops have crossed the river defenses and have just reached the second line of defense of the Chinese army."

"As a result, a Chinese assault force suddenly appeared in the rear, and our vanguard was surrounded!"

The chief of staff of the 6th Brigade handed the telegram to Harrison and said anxiously.

"What!?"

"How could the Chinese army suddenly appear behind our vanguard!?"

"Damn it, didn't they clear out the remaining defenders in front of the lines beforehand?"

Upon hearing this, Brigadier General Harrison roared with a hint of anger.

“Sir, our three thousand vanguard troops are all elite veterans; they would never make such a mistake.”

"Moreover, the Chinese troops appearing behind them are numerous and have strong firepower, so they couldn't possibly be remnants!"

"That's what the chief of staff of the U.S. Sixth Brigade said."

"If they weren't remnants, then it could only be... a tunnel!"

"Damn it, we've been tricked!!!"

"There are no first, second, or third lines of defense; they're all fake!"

"The Chinese army hollowed out the entire Songyue Mountain in advance, just so they could now encircle and slaughter our comrades!"

After Harrison realized what was happening, his eyes widened suddenly, and he roared in a slightly panicked manner.

"Sir, what should we do now? Should we send the vanguard to break through?"

Upon hearing this, the chief of staff of the U.S. Sixth Brigade immediately asked.

"That's too late!"

"Their tunnels are sufficient to ensure that troops can be mobilized to any point on Songyue Mountain at any time!"

"In this situation, it's useless for us to break out in any direction; there will be a continuous stream of troops blocking our vanguard from all sides!"

"Charge! Send another four thousand troops to charge!"

"Aren't they trying to flank and annihilate our vanguard by flanking us?"

"Our follow-up troops can also encircle and annihilate their flanking forces!"

A glint of madness flashed in Brigadier General Harrison's eyes, and he immediately gave the order.

"Yes, sir!"

Upon hearing this, the chief of staff of the 6th Brigade immediately agreed and quickly relayed the order to send in an additional 4,000 troops.

....................................

Before long, the American troops on the riverbank began to move, with urgent whistles and officers' shouts rising and falling.

More American soldiers poured out of the bunkers and began a second crossing of the river.

The rubber boats were once again dragged into the murky river, and the landing craft, full of soldiers, started their engines one after another. The roar of the engines and the tense whispers of the soldiers mingled together.

After the previous disastrous defeat, the US forces were more cautious this time when crossing the river, and redeployed fire reconnaissance and air cover.

Finally, the four thousand American reinforcements arrived safely on the west bank of Songak Mountain.

"Quick! Move faster!"

"The Third Battalion is responsible for the left flank, the Second Battalion for the right flank, and the First Battalion will follow the armored vehicles to break through in the center!"

"Heavy firepower company, quickly establish positions and provide cover!"

"Objective: Firefight zone halfway up the mountain ahead! Support the vanguard!"

The frontline commander of the reinforcement troops shouted hoarsely, urging his troops to climb up the rugged mountain path.

American soldiers, guns at the ready, trudged through the smoke-filled, crater-strewn hillside, their target the area halfway up the mountain where intense gunfire and explosions were emanating.

Their comrades are being besieged and hunted there; time is of the essence, and every second means more casualties.

....................................

Songyueshan Tree Fort Command Post

"Report to Instructor Gao! The reconnaissance unit at the foot of the mountain is calling!"

"The commander-in-chief was right. The US reinforcements have completed their large-scale landing and are advancing at full speed towards the area where our vanguard is surrounded!"

"According to the commander-in-chief's judgment, they are probably planning to attack our infiltrating unit from both inside and outside, in order to wipe out our infiltrating detachment!"

The staff officer's voice was filled with anxiety.

Gao Daxing stared at the map, his eyes showing no panic, but rather admiration for Wu Wanli's precise calculations.

"Hmph, just as the commander-in-chief predicted!"

"Are they planning a counter-encirclement?"

"There's no door!"

"Tell Lei Gong that the artillery barrage can begin firing incendiary bombs."

Gao Daxing snorted coldly and said in a steady and powerful voice.

"Yes!"

Upon hearing this, Lu Taijian immediately agreed.

....................................

Songyue Mountain Artillery Position
"Target: The shoreline at the foot of the mountain in the pre-defined area!"

"Target parameters: Zone 7 to Zone 2, rapid and comprehensive assault!"

"Ammunition types: High-explosive shells! Incendiary shells! White phosphorus shells! Rapid fire!"

"Make sure they don't reach the halfway point! Smash it down! Use fire to build a wall for them!"

"Hey kids, dinner's ready!"

Thunder God roared loudly.

At Lei Gong's command, the entire artillery position instantly awoke.

The massive muzzles of the cannons rose up, adjusting their elevation angles.

The volunteer soldiers' loader moved with lightning speed, pushing heavy shells into the breech.

"Gun position number one, ready!!!"

"Gun position number two is ready!!!"

"Gun position number three is ready!!!"

"..."

The artillerymen of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army quickly adjusted the angle of their guns and responded loudly.

"fire!!!"

Seeing that everything was ready, Lei Gong immediately waved his command flag and roared loudly.

"Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang..."

In an instant, a muffled and violent roar erupted from the Songyue Mountain, as if the mountains were roaring in anger.

Countless crimson streaks tore through the smoke-filled sky, carrying the howl of death, and precisely struck the narrow mountain path that the American reinforcements were bound to take.

U.S. frontline commanders are anxiously urging their troops to speed up.

Suddenly, a piercing shriek, like the scythe of death, swept overhead.

"Artillery fire!!! Take cover!!!"

The piercing warning was almost simultaneously swallowed up by the deafening explosion.

“Rumble——!!!”

First, a batch of high-explosive bombs exploded violently in and around the US troops, and the strong shock wave and flying shrapnel instantly knocked down many US soldiers.

But this... is just the prelude.

Then, an even more terrifying scene unfolded.

Large numbers of incendiary bombs and white phosphorus bombs fell like fire from the sky, violently impacting the ground and rocks.

Clusters of dazzling orange-red flames suddenly expanded and exploded, blooming like giant fire lotuses on the battlefield.

The napalm instantly covered a large area, turning trees, bushes, rocks, and even the American soldiers who didn't have time to take cover into blazing torches.

The flames were sticky and intensely hot, and could not be easily extinguished.

Even more terrifying are white phosphorus bombs, which release large amounts of thick white smoke and diffused white "snowflakes" when they explode, which are burning white phosphorus particles.

These deadly "snowflakes" are ubiquitous, carrying terrifying temperatures of up to 1300 degrees Celsius, and adhere to everything they come into contact with.

Skin, uniforms, equipment...

The white phosphorus flames instantly pierced through the fabric, began to burn fiercely, and released highly toxic fumes.

All the American soldiers who were contaminated by the white phosphorus let out heart-wrenching, inhuman screams, writhing and thrashing about in agony, trying to escape the bone-corroding flames.

Screams echoed throughout the fire, mingled with the horrifying smell of burning flesh.

The raging gasoline flames formed a wall of fire nearly ten meters high, and the intense heat distorted the air, making it impossible for anyone to get close.

Even more deadly was the pervasive white phosphorus smoke that created a highly toxic death zone, with thick smoke billowing and obscuring the sky.

The deadly white phosphorus particles continued to spread and disperse silently under the high temperature, falling into the lines of reinforcements behind them, continuing to cause casualties and panic.

"Retreat! Retreat! Get back here now!"

The U.S. military commander was completely stunned by the hellish scene and almost instinctively roared.

This is no longer a battle; it's a one-sided massacre.

The wall of fire and the toxic smoke in front of us is an insurmountable barrier.

Sending troops to brave this sea of ​​fire and poison gas? That's no different from sending soldiers to jump into a furnace and burn themselves!
The reinforcements were terrified. Forced to retreat by the flames and scorching poisonous gas, they abandoned their equipment and scrambled down the mountain to escape to a relatively safe area.

Some soldiers covered in white phosphorus were dragged along by their comrades, but many more were turned into rolling balls of fire amidst their agonizing screams.

....................................

At the foot of the mountain, inside the headquarters of the US Sixth Brigade

Brigadier General Harrison raised his precious binoculars once again.

In the field of vision, flames soared into the sky, and thick smoke obscured the sun.

That massive, scorching wall of fire, like a divine lash, mercilessly blocked the four thousand reinforcements he had placed his hopes on at the foot of the mountain.

"Boom...boom..."

Despite the continuous artillery fire, the shelling on Songak Mountain did not completely cease.

Sporadic incendiary and white phosphorus bombs continued to fall outside the blockade line, maintaining this deadly barrier and further dispersing and killing any American troops attempting to assemble.

Harrison's hands trembled so violently that the binoculars almost slipped from his grasp.

"Damn it! Damn the Chinese artillery!"

Harrison slammed his fist into the sandbag bunker, a sharp pain shooting through his knuckles.

"Sir, with this level of burning intensity, our reinforcements won't be able to get through for the time being."

"Moreover, I discovered the Achilles' heel of the Chinese army throughout the entire Incheon campaign, or rather, we already knew about it."

"But we were so afraid of heavy losses that we tried every other way to attack in order to avoid such heavy losses." "In the end, however... we suffered even greater losses at the hands of the Chinese army."

The chief of staff of the U.S. Sixth Brigade sighed and said.

"You mean the Chinese army's Achilles' heel lies in the artillery barrage at Songyue Mountain?!"

"Their artillery positions were already semi-permanently fortified against the mountainside, and with their powerful anti-aircraft firepower, it was indeed difficult for us to destroy them."

"Unless we really commit all our carrier-based aircraft and suffer unimaginable casualties..."

Harrison sighed and said.

"We lost this battle because of the leak of intelligence and the slow speed of the landing assault, which gave them time to prepare so many fortifications."

"But now we're at the final stage, and we shouldn't hesitate any longer."

"Compared to the overall victory of the UN forces in the campaign, we can consider paying this price in casualties."

"The chief of staff of the 6th Brigade said in a low voice."

"Give these telegrams to Lieutenant General Thomas and let him decide."

Harrison nodded slightly and waved his hand.

"Yes, sir!"

The chief of staff of the 6th Brigade of the United States should go down.

....................................

U.S. Army 1st Division Command
"Sir, the Chinese troops in Incheon have launched a fierce attack on Carter's forces, but the operation has failed and they are retreating steadily."

"The Chinese troops at Songyue Mountain used tunnels and artillery to inflict heavy damage on Harrison's forces."

"Harrison requested that all carrier-based aircraft be mobilized to destroy China's artillery barrage with all their might."

"This is absolutely insane! We'd have to lose more than half of our carrier-based aircraft to succeed!"

The chief of staff of the U.S. Army's 1st Division said.

"Agree to his request, and fight like this!"

Lieutenant General Thomas remained silent for a long time before finally speaking.

"What!?"

"Sir, are you really sure about this?"

"That means half of the carrier's fighter squadron would be destroyed. Isn't that a bit too much of a price to pay..."

"The chief of staff of the 1st Division of the U.S. Army asked."

"Not only are the air force and pilots valuable, but a large number of elite army troops are also very valuable."

“I used to think that we didn’t need to fight like this to defeat the Chinese army.”

"But think about the recent defeats. In which of them wasn't the Chinese artillery cluster at Songyue Mountain unleashing its power?"

"No more hesitation, it's time to go all in!"

"Go and relay the order."

Lieutenant General Thomas took a deep breath and slammed his hand on the table.

"Yes, sir!"

Looking at the resolute Thomas, the chief of staff of the 1st Division of the U.S. Army had no choice but to agree.

....................................

Before long, the order reached the massive mixed US fleet outside Incheon Bay.

In an instant, the silent aircraft carrier deck erupted with a breathtaking vitality, like a powder keg that had been ignited.

The piercing alarm blared through the sky, completely shattering the roar of the sea breeze and waves.

"Buzz——————————Whoosh——————Whoosh——————!!!"

The crew on board were like gears in a precision instrument, operating frantically amidst piercing sirens and the officers' desperate roars.

The deck crew, dressed in colorful vests, ran against the sudden gust of sea wind, which carried the fishy smell of engines starting up.

The massive elevators rattled heavily as they carried aircraft, already laden with bombs and rockets, from the lower hangar to the crowded flight deck.

"Hurry, hurry, hurry! Get moving!"

"Loading inspection complete! Fuze safety released!"

"Pilots in position! Reporting readiness!"

The roar of engines echoed from every corner like rolling thunder, eventually coalescing into a furious roar that seemed to tear the boundary between the sea and the sky.

The scorching exhaust fumes violently distorted the air behind the deck, filling it with the acrid smell of aviation fuel and burning metal.

One after another, US warplanes accelerated wildly on the extremely short deck runway, their noses raised, roaring as they broke free from the aircraft carrier's restraints and plunged into the gray-blue sky.

Their landing gears retracted quickly, their wings trembled slightly, and the formation began to climb and assemble.

One, two, ten, twenty, fifty, one hundred...

A steady stream of US warplanes took off, quickly forming formations that created a massive fleet covering the entire field of vision.

The sunlight was blocked, casting a huge shadow on the sea, and the roar of the engines sounded like a real shock wave, pressing down from high above.

The entire sky was filled with gray-blue fighter jets, their wings menacing, and the exhaust from their engines disturbing the flowing clouds.

This massive formation of US military aircraft sped towards Songaksan Mountain, where the smoke of battle had not yet cleared!

Such a large group of US warplanes was quickly detected by Wu Wanli's Sky Eye.

....................................

Incheon Garrison Command, Operations Conference Room
"Reporting to Commander-in-Chief Kaka, all battlefields are preparing to fight and retreat as planned."

"However, the situation at Songyue Mountain is relatively good, and it seems that we can hold out for a long time and kill a large number of American troops."

Quan Douguang handed the telegram to Wu Wanli and reported.

"What we can see, the American devils certainly know too."

"They realized that Songgaksan could not be taken in a short time by the army in a fierce battle."

"Then next, he should send out all his carrier-based aircraft to fight us to the death."

Wu Wanli took a puff of his cigar and observed the Heavenly Eye map in his mind as he spoke.

"Are they willing to suffer heavy casualties to wipe out our Songaksan artillery cluster?"

"Damn it, if the American devils really fight to the death, our air defense firepower won't be able to hold out completely."

"Wanli, should we mobilize the air force to support Songyue Mountain?"

Upon hearing this, Liu Hanqing immediately realized what was happening and said...

"No need, this suits me just fine."

"The Soviet Union has agreed to help us seize the aircraft carrier, one of the conditions being that they send some MiG fighters to assist us."

"Let's cripple the US carrier strike group first, then it will be much easier to seize the aircraft carrier later!"

"Telegram to Gao Daxing and Lei Gong, instructing them to move some of the light and medium artillery pieces in advance, so they can take them with them when they leave."

"In addition, anti-aircraft guns are ready for a major battle."

"Try to shoot down as many US carrier-based aircraft as possible. If you can't win the fight, run away through tunnels!"

"Furthermore, prepare all units for a breakout. We have achieved our strategic objectives and it is time to withdraw."

Wu Wanli thought for a moment and then said.

"Wanli, if the light and medium artillery are being transported ahead of schedule, does that mean we're not taking the other heavy artillery?"

"Heavy artillery is a strategic weapon, what a pity..."

Liu Hanqing said with some reluctance.

"Heavy artillery is too cumbersome; we can't possibly drag them through the enemy lines."

"Moreover, these heavy artillery pieces can also carry out a final bombardment, providing fire support for our vanguard breakout force."

Wu Wanli said.

"Commander Wu, which way should we break through?"

"Should we break out to the north, then wait for the right opportunity to raid Incheon Port and seize the aircraft carrier?"

Quan Douguang asked.

"No, that would be too obvious, and our intentions might be exposed."

"The whole group should break out to the east and make it look like they are preparing to defend Seoul."

"Then after the breakout, the troops split up, and the 7th Steel Regiment secretly advanced to the northwest, preparing to launch a surprise attack on Incheon."

"The New Eighth Army and the Ninth Division of the Korean Army openly fled towards Seoul, leading the American forces to mistakenly believe that we were all heading that way."

Upon hearing this, Wu Wanli said...

"Commander Wu is brilliant!"

Upon hearing this, Quan Douguang immediately praised him.

"Wanli, Lin Yoona is outside and says she wants to see you."

She said that since you were once her savior, she wanted to give you something...

Liu Hanqing said.

"He's a descendant of the Beiyang Army who's been living away from home, so let's meet him."

"Consider it as the Chinese military's way of receiving overseas Chinese."

Wu Wanli hesitated for two seconds before speaking.

"Yes!"

Upon hearing this, Liu Hanqing and Quan Douguang immediately agreed and headed outside.

.........

Before long, in the light and shadow of the door frame, Lim Yoon-a's slender figure appeared.

She wore a simple floral-patterned jacket and a dark woolen coat that was slightly faded from washing, but was neat and tidy.

His thin face bore the weariness of a long journey and a hint of malnutrition, but it only made his dark eyes appear clear and bright, like ink jade soaked in spring water.

A few wisps of hair fell softly across her forehead, making her appear exceptionally slender, even somewhat fragile.

When her gaze fell on Wu Wanli, her eyes, which had been slightly timid, instantly lit up, and then a thin layer of moisture appeared on them.

A complex mix of emotions welled up in her eyes—gratitude, deep concern, and an indescribable flutter of excitement unique to her age.

Wu Wanli had just finished contemplating the entire battle plan; the smoke from his cigar had not yet completely dissipated, and the sharp glint of strategic brilliance still lingered between his brows.

Upon seeing her, the coldness that commanded thousands of troops melted slightly, and her tone carried a hint of tolerance and patience unique to the descendants of compatriots who had been stranded in foreign lands.

“Your brother Lin Zhengshun was not severely punished. Han Qing’s decision was to have him redeem himself through meritorious service. You don’t need to worry.”

"Get ready to pack your things and retreat to Seoul with your brother and the others. It's safer there."

Wu Wanli considered her purpose and made arrangements in a calm tone.

His words were like a breeze, trying to dispel Yoona's worries.

"Commander Wu... I'm not here about my brother..."

Yoona gently shook her head, pursed her lips, and spoke in a voice that was both soft and exceptionally clear.

The last word trailed off slightly, revealing a hint of nervousness, yet she mustered the courage to continue.

Her hands, which had been awkwardly folded in front of her, were now carefully raised, revealing the small, faded blue cloth bundle that she had been clutching tightly.

Her hands were delicate, with slightly white knuckles, revealing the effort she put into them.

She unfolded the handkerchief in her palm, as if holding something extremely precious and fragile.

There are two items inside.

One was a cloth bag, its color faded and somewhat dull, sewn together with coarse thread, and you could vaguely make out what was inside.

The other was a small stack of thin, rough-paper-copied scriptures.

The paper was slightly curled, and the ink stains varied in shade.

It's clear that it was written with great care, but it also shows obvious signs of having been read and reviewed over a long period of time.

"This……"

"This amulet was left by my mother... She said it could protect her loved ones..."

Lin Yoona's voice was so soft it was almost like a feather brushing past. When she said the word "family," her eyes quickly swept across Wu Wanli's face before swiftly looking down.

She handed the small cloth bag forward, her movements filled with careful reverence.

"This is what I copied from the scriptures I brought after I found paper and pen in Incheon..."

She picked up the stack of scriptures again, her fingertips gently tracing the neat yet slightly rushed handwriting on the paper.

“Every penny I swear is a prayer for your safety and that of your comrades in the military.”

"I don't know... if it will be useful, but... it's the thought that counts..."

Her voice was softer, carrying the shyness and sincerity unique to young girls.

She finally mustered the courage to raise her head and look directly at Wu Wanli.

In those eyes, which shone even brighter with moisture, concern and some indescribable emotion were clearly visible.

The roar of artillery fire still seemed to echo faintly in the distance, while the ticking of telegrams and the hurried footsteps of personnel in the command post formed the background.

In the dim light separated by this doorway, time seemed to slow down.

Wu Wanli's deep gaze fell on the two items the girl was holding: the faded amulet and the still-wet ink of the scriptures lay quietly in her fair palm.

His fingers holding the cigar seemed to pause in mid-air for an extremely subtle moment, and the swirling smoke seemed to freeze for a second.

Finally, he met Yoona's clear eyes, which were filled with sincerity and expectation, and his gaze softened even more.

He didn't reply, but simply nodded slightly and let out a low "hmm" in his throat.

This simple response, in the quiet air, felt like the most solemn acceptance of this simple sentiment.

Immediately, Wu Wanli turned his gaze back to the map, his thoughts seemingly already drifting to the next deployment.

"I'm sorry, I was being presumptuous. I'll be going now..."

Seeing this, Lin Yoona silently lowered her head and turned to leave. Her steps were light and fluttering, like a fallen leaf scattered by the wind, making her appear even more lonely against the busy backdrop of the command center.

"Thank you."

Wu Wanli waited until Lin Yun'er was almost out of sight before glancing at the amulet and scriptures on the table and saying something.

"Somebody come!"

"Regarding the power plant in Seoul, our unit has exceeded its target in Incheon by annihilating enemy personnel and is now preparing to break out and withdraw!"

"Have Commander Ding Wei prepare for support and defense. The US 1st Infantry Division will definitely be heading towards them next!"

"Also, inquire in the telegram about how the preparations are going on the Soviet side."

"When will we send agents to bomb the American warships and force them to make emergency repairs at Incheon Port?"

"In addition, when will the other forces supporting us be ready?"

"The next phase of the Steel Seventh Regiment's mission is to seize the aircraft carrier, and I need to know this in advance!"

Wu Wanli shouted loudly.

Wu Wanli's voice echoed in the command post, carrying an unquestionable determination.

"Yes, Commander!"

Liu Hanqing and Quan Douguang, who had just entered after hearing the sound, immediately grasped the key information and responded at the same time.

The two men quickly walked towards the door again, preparing to give orders separately.

Just as the door was about to close, Wu Wanli's deep gaze fell on the faded amulet and the neatly written scriptures on the table.

The sounds of gunfire and telegrams outside seemed to be separated by an invisible barrier.

His hand reached out almost instinctively, his fingertips touching the amulet made of coarse cloth. The rough fabric had an indescribable warmth to it.

"Commander-in-Chief Kaka?"

Quan Douguang had already reached the door when he subconsciously paused, noticing that Wu Wanli seemed to be lost in thought for a moment.

"It's okay, let's go!"

Wu Wanli quickly withdrew his hand, his gaze returning to the cold and resolute look on the map, as if the touch had never happened.

"We need to be quick! The US carrier-based aircraft will be over Songaksan in at most an hour!"

"understand!"

The door was closed, leaving only Wu Wanli inside.

The smoke from the cigars rose in wisps, and the faint noise outside became clear again, blending into the background sound of war.

He took a deep breath, shaking off those subtle, tender emotions, and his mind sank completely into the impending storm.

He "saw" the sky-covering, gray-blue aircraft in the Sky Eye, like a flock of vultures smelling blood, swooping down on Songyue Mountain at top speed.

……

Songyue Mountain artillery position.

The atmosphere suddenly became heavy and somber.

The air raid siren blared mournfully, echoing repeatedly through the mountains and tunnels.

"Heavens! A massive formation of American aircraft is swarming over us!"

The voice of the lookout came through the phone with a slight, almost imperceptible tremor.

Lei Gong put down the phone, his face, marked by the smoke of gunpowder, showed no surprise, only an almost cold calm.

"You little rascals! The main dish is here!"

"Everyone, keep your eyes peeled! Anti-aircraft artillery platoon, all on high alert!"

"For positions that can't be moved, load the shells! Let's put on one last grand show!"

Lei Gong turned around and roared at the artillerymen who were already on high alert.

"Yes!"

"Let's fight that bastard!"

"Damn it!"

Orders were relayed swiftly, and the relocation operation became even more urgent. Light and medium artillery pieces were quickly moved by the soldiers' strenuous efforts.

The soldiers remained unusually calm about the immovable heavy anti-aircraft gun positions, anti-aircraft machine gun positions, and heavy artillery positions that were destined to be abandoned.

They quickly checked their equipment, gun barrels raised high, pointing in the direction where enemy planes might attack.

The volunteer soldiers pushed the heavy armor-piercing and high-explosive shells into the gun barrel, and the sound of the retaining springs closing was particularly crisp in the tense air.

The air was filled with the scents of steel, gunpowder, and the poignant atmosphere of the impending final battle.

……

Soon, the roar of engines in the sky sounded like muffled thunder.

From afar, the sound gradually grew louder, eventually coalescing into a deafening and terrifying sonic wave, as if it would tear apart the smoke and fire of the entire Songaksan Mountain.

The densely packed US carrier-based aircraft, like a swarm of bloodthirsty locusts, obscured the sky below the clouds.

Various types of fighter-bombers formed a tight attack formation, aiming directly at the mountain that had cost them so much.

"Descend altitude! Prepare for dive!"

"Locate and mark air defense firing positions!"

"Be careful, the Chinese are definitely lying in ambush!"

The radio communications of the U.S. military crackled to life.

Songyue Mountain Artillery Position
“Fire—!”

Almost the instant the US aircraft entered their optimal firing range, Lei Gong's hoarse voice roared as a signal.

"Bang bang bang-!"

"Da da da da da da-!"

The anti-aircraft gun emplacements hidden on various reverse slopes, cliff protrusions, and in the undestroyed pseudo-permanent fortifications suddenly launched an attack!
Anti-aircraft guns spewed out continuous streams of fire, while anti-aircraft machine guns wove a dense barrage of bullets, all flying toward the American fighter jets.

(End of this chapter)