Changjin Lake: From Xinxingli to Seoul

Chapter 323 Wu Wanli acquires a tank and armored battalion and simulates the situation and combat plan for the Fifth Campaign!

As dawn broke, the city of Pyongyang still carried the echoes of last night's victory celebration. The crisp, cool air, when inhaled, carried a hint of gunpowder and chill.

Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing walked out of the command post of the Seventh Steel Corps located in the building in the west of the city, side by side.

In the courtyard behind them, the noise of the whole night had subsided into silence, with only a few soldiers cleaning up the messy celebration site.

Outside the gate, a military jeep was already waiting, driven by Xiao Wang, a familiar face from the guard regiment.

Without exchanging pleasantries, the two opened the car door and prepared to get in, as they couldn't be late for the meeting with the commander-in-chief regarding the planning of the Fifth Campaign.

Just then, another ordinary-looking dark green American Jeep suddenly slowed down, almost blocking their path, and came to a steady stop beside them with a screech, kicking up a cloud of fine dust.

The passenger door opened, and out stepped Chief Chen's secretary. He quickly gestured to Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing, and the rear window slowly rolled down.

The boss's profile was revealed, with distinct features, bearing the deep marks of a sleepless night.

Chief Chen, standing nearby, leaned forward slightly, a warm yet undeniable smile on his face, and waved to the two of them, saying:
"Come on up, I'll give you a ride on the way. See you at the venue."

This sudden "honor" left Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing frozen in place.

Going to a meeting in the same car as the leader?
The two looked at each other and saw shock and a hint of bewilderment in each other's eyes.

The two men snapped to attention, their right arms rising in perfect unison, and gave a crisp military salute to the people inside the car window, their voices exceptionally loud and clear:

"Hello, Chief!"

"Alright, get on, so we don't have to start another car."

The boss spoke in a low voice, his gaze sweeping over the bloodshot eyes of the two men, clearly aware of the celebration last night.

The secretary quickly opened the back door of the car.

Without the slightest hesitation, Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing squeezed into the spacious back row.

The car door closed, shutting out the morning breeze.

The interior space was more spacious than I had imagined, with dark leather seats and a faint smell of engine oil and tobacco in the air.

After the two sat down, their backs were straight as if javelins were thrust into the back of the seats, their hands were placed flat on their knees, and their eyes were looking at the car window in front of them.

The jeep started smoothly and drove along the still dilapidated streets ravaged by war, making a dull thud as it rolled over scattered gravel and spent shell casings.

Inside the carriage, only the low hum of the engine could be heard for a moment.

Sunlight streamed through the car window, casting a bright spot on the shoulder of the general's military uniform.

He frowned slightly, his gaze fixed intently on the rapidly receding ruins outside the car window. His left hand unconsciously rose, his fingers pressing hard against his temples, as if trying to squeeze the pressure out of his mind.

That powerful, battle-hardened spirit, capable of winning battles from afar, remained undiminished even in his weariness.

"...The boss has been having a terrible headache lately. After receiving the intelligence telegrams compiled by the headquarters last night, he stayed up all night looking at the map, smoking one cigarette after another."

Chief Chen sighed and said.

The boss didn't turn around, but gave a deep "hmm" through his nose, which was taken as acknowledgment of Chief Chen's statement. He then intensified his massage of his temples.

"We can't delay any longer."

The latest reliable news from the south indicates that the UN forces have not been licking their wounds and recuperating during this period.

They replenished their troops and supplies much faster than we expected!
Now their vanguard, braving our resistance, has once again advanced northward.

Just before dawn last night, its vanguard engaged in a small-scale probing exchange of fire with our frontline defensive positions.

The battlefront has been truly pushed right up to our noses.

"Chief Chen said."

Liu Hanqing's heart tightened suddenly upon hearing this, and he held his breath.

Has the situation on the front lines really become this critical?
"That's not all. In order to boost its momentum and to give an explanation to its 'allies' at home, the United States has indeed gone to great lengths."

Truman pressured and pressured both the French and the Dutch to send a fully equipped battalion to the battle.

Of course, the majority of the profits still go to the Americans.

They urgently recalled their rebuilt forces to the mainland for rest and retraining, and the complete US 7th Infantry Division had already landed to provide support.

Even more deadly is that the old enemy that was almost wiped out by the Ninth Army Corps at Chosin Reservoir, the U.S. 1st Marine Division, has been desperately rebuilt by them!

The unit is now designated as the 'New Marine Division 1'. The personnel have been basically replenished, and the equipment is said to be entirely new.

In addition, they also brought over the US 45th Infantry Division, which was originally stationed elsewhere.

Add to that the South Korean legions, which have suffered repeated defeats but continue to expand in number...

Based on the cross-verification of all intelligence agencies, the total strength of the UN forces assembled south of the 38th parallel, preparing for another northward offensive, is extremely strong.

Conservative estimates suggest the force has easily surpassed 300,000.

Chief Chen pushed up his black-rimmed glasses, the lenses reflecting the white light streaming in from the window, and spoke slowly.

"Three hundred thousand?!"

"In the last battle, their main force numbered only about 100,000 at most."

This time...this time it's more than doubled?
Is the US planning a decisive battle with us in North Korea?

Liu Hanqing gasped, his tense shoulders and back trembled, and he blurted out.

The UN forces expanded far faster than anticipated, like a towering steel wall suddenly rising from the ground, pressing heavily on the soon-to-be-burning front lines.

"And what about that new 1st Marine Division?!"

How long has it been since the Battle of Chosin Reservoir?

"How did those Americans manage to reassemble this unit, nicknamed 'The Drip Unit'?"

Liu Hanqing frowned and asked.

"Hanqing, this is actually... not surprising."

The Americans rely on national power and a war machine that operates regardless of cost.

Money and equipment are not a big problem for them, as long as the congressmen grit their teeth and approve the appropriations.

Moreover, the United States possesses a vast network of military bases spanning the globe and an astonishing number of auxiliary military reserves.

As long as elite non-commissioned officers and veterans from other units are drawn into the core, and the skeleton and muscles of active-duty troops from the U.S. mainland are added, and they are armed with brand-new equipment transported at breakneck speed, they can be given a designation.

While restoring combat effectiveness in the short term may be compromised, rebuilding it on paper is not too difficult.

We can't learn this method, and there's no need for us to.

The key lies in the price they paid.

This kind of gameplay is not as simple as just wasting equipment and troops.

What it truly devours are two unseen, intangible, yet deadly things.

Firstly, there is the growing anti-war sentiment in their own country.

The continuous large-scale blood transfusions are sending young and middle-aged people who should be building peaceful homes to be fed into the meat grinder of battlefields thousands of miles away.

Every time such a main force division is rebuilt, the anti-war wave in the country rises even higher, and the political pressure on the government increases even more.

Secondly, it is their national strength reserves for maintaining global hegemony.

War is the most expensive game; endlessly rebuilding the main force means throwing real money into this battlefield like water...

Their global strategic reserves will be severely depleted, and their control in other areas will be weakened.

Therefore, if the 1st Marine Division is wiped out, it can be rebuilt, and the 1st Army Division can also be rebuilt.

But each reconstruction effort burns down the very foundation and destiny of the United States.

The pressure Ridgway and Truman faced was no less than ours.

Wu Wanli, who had been gazing out the window in deep thought, slowly turned his face and spoke.

This insightful analysis precisely exposes the truth behind the complex political maneuvering and the depletion of national strength behind the designation of the "New Marine Division 1".

Liu Hanqing nodded repeatedly as he listened, his tightly furrowed brows gradually relaxing, and his taut jawline also loosened.

"Commander, what about ourselves?"

Although we won the last battle, the casualties and equipment losses of each unit were real.

Even if we prioritize replenishing our forces, facing the 300,000-strong UN army, fighting a bloody battle with our old troops would be far too difficult!

Liu Hanqing said with concern.

"Of course not only."

The central government made a firm decision and personally made arrangements. In order to win this battle, we also concentrated an unprecedentedly strong force!

The three main army groups—the Third Army Group, the Ninth Army Group, and the Nineteenth Army Group, which had just entered Korea and was known for its willingness to fight tough battles—had all secretly completed their campaign assembly in the designated areas!
These three corps encompass the most capable and distinguished main forces of our army.

The 63rd, 64th, and 65th Armies of the 19th Army Corps.

The 20th, 26th, 27th, 39th and 40th Armies of the Ninth Army Group.

The 12th Army, 15th Army, and 60th Army of the Third Army Group.

A total of eleven main forces!

Every single one of them is a heroic unit!
This doesn't even include a main force corps of the Korean People's Army, our comrades-in-arms who fought alongside us!
In this major battle, the main force assembled on the northern side of the front line alone numbers nearly 500,000!
More accurately, the total number of troops deployed by both sides—including land, sea, air, main force, and logistics personnel—exceeded one million!

When two people meet on a narrow path, there is no way to avoid it!

This is not just a battle; it will be a war that threatens the entire nation!

This was essentially the largest and most brutal decisive battle between China and the US in Korea since the Chinese People's Volunteer Army entered the war!

"A decisive battle between China, the US, and North Korea—that's an apt description."

Regardless of whether this battle ends immediately or not, one thing is certain.

It will make everything clear!
Let those people in Washington understand exactly where the bottom line is on the Korean battlefield!

Let's completely wake them from their delusional dream of unifying the country by force!

This also makes a fact clear to the whole world!
In this world, no force can crush a rising, awakened nation on the land battlefield with steel and bayonets!

Only then can true peace based on equality and mutual respect be achieved at the negotiating table!

Chief Chen murmured with emotion.

These words were like a boulder thrown into a deep pool, creating a silent yet intense echo in the carriage.

Upon hearing this, Wu Wanli's heart surged with emotion!
History... This is the Fifth Campaign, which left a profound mark on history and served as a strategic turning point in the Korean War!

Its scale was enormous, a high-stakes gamble where both sides poured all their resources into it.

At this moment, the words spoken by the two decision-makers carry the weight of burning blood and iron.

"Commander, this is a decisive battle involving a large number of troops, with an unprecedented breadth and depth of battlefield."

The U.S. military has a large number of armored forces, and its tank groups have extremely strong capabilities for wide-range mobility, segmentation and penetration. Although the bravery of our infantry is unparalleled in the world.

However, if we lack sufficient armored spearheads to counter the enemy's superior armored forces' regional defense or powerful attacks relying on ground and air firepower, we will be forced to pay an unbearable price on the battlefield.

Such sacrifices are not merely losses in individual battles, but also hinder the overall counterattack and delay opportunities...

In the previous operation, the Seventh Steel Brigade had tasted success by relying on a small number of tanks in conjunction with lightly armed infantry to carry out blitzkrieg tactics.

However, they also deeply realized the weakness of armored assault forces, namely, their small numbers.

Once surrounded by superior enemy armored formations or subjected to long-range artillery fire, they become passive and find it difficult to form a sustained offensive capability.

Therefore, I earnestly request the commander to establish an armored guard battalion with strong independent combat capabilities on the basis of the guard battalion within the Seventh Steel Corps!
It must be equipped with at least 25 tanks, and at least 10 half-track or wheeled armored vehicles!

Used to perform defensive support, counter-attacks, and forced breaches of enemy fortified positions at key junctures!

Wu Wanli took a deep breath and said.

This request was substantial, almost equivalent to taking away a significant portion of the heavy armored forces in the entire Chinese People's Volunteer Army.

However, the two leaders did not show any surprise. Instead, they exchanged a knowing look, as if they had been waiting for him to speak.

Chief Chen's lips curled up, revealing a mischievous yet warm "I see" smile.

He didn't immediately agree to Wu Wanli's request for twenty-five tanks. Instead, he leaned forward slightly, looked at Wu Wanli, and said, "Twenty-five tanks?"

Wu Wanli's heart tightened slightly. He was about to explain his reasons further when he heard Chief Chen suddenly change the subject, his smile no longer concealed, and he almost loudly proclaim:

"No, Comrade Wanli. Twenty-five... that's too few! It's stingy!"

Our headquarters studied you for a long time... You are an elite force that captured a whole battalion of tanks and equipment!

Twenty-five vehicles?
Isn't this humiliating our heroes?
If you're going to attack, then give it your full firepower!
You'll have a total of thirty-six tanks!

Thirty-six vehicles?!

Thirty-six tanks!

Upon hearing this, Wu Wanli paused for two seconds before quickly confirming.

This far exceeded his expectations!

A tremendous surprise surged through his body like an electric current, causing him to almost instinctively spring to his feet. His eyes widened in disbelief as his composure was shattered by overwhelming joy.

This is not just an upgrade in equipment, but also the deepest understanding and the most unreserved trust in the core combat needs of the Seventh Steel Brigade!
"Commander Chen! You've really given me..."

It was a huge surprise for all the officers and soldiers of the Seventh Steel Brigade!

What an unprecedented surprise!

Upon seeing Chief Chen nod, Wu Wanli immediately exclaimed with delight.

Upon hearing this, Chief Chen burst into laughter.

Looking at this young general who struck fear into the hearts of the enemy on the battlefield, yet now seemed like a big boy who had received a beloved toy, his eyes were filled with the pride of an elder for an outstanding junior.

But Chief Chen immediately stopped smiling and solemnly pointed to the boss next to him, saying, "Hey, this surprise, your biggest thank you gift, should be directed at the boss!"

It was our commander-in-chief who overruled the objections of many comrades at headquarters and in various military units, who felt that the decision was too biased, and directly approved the note!

The boss said, "We fought such a good battle, captured so much, and won so many times. How could we not reward and encourage them severely?"

The Seventh Steel Brigade displayed its might and became the face of our entire Volunteer Army!

"A storefront like this, gleaming and imposing, is worth having no matter how many there are!"

The boss's face remained expressionless, he only gave a faint "humph," as if to say: That's how it should be!
The meaning in his eyes was exceptionally clear: if you have the ability to take the equipment, you have to fight back with results worthy of it!

This is just the beginning.

Before the two could recover from this double surprise, Chief Chen calmly continued to offer new good news: "In addition, headquarters has already made a decision regarding the reward plan for the Seventh Steel Brigade."

First, an additional condolence payment will be issued to the family members of each of the heroic officers and soldiers of the Seventh Steel Brigade.

Although the amount of money was not extremely large, it was enough for them to temporarily improve their lives and solve some practical difficulties in their hometown.

Let the children dress warmly, and let the elderly have less pain and worry.

This funding was directly allocated from headquarters logistics to the local civil affairs department.

Second, for the vacancies in each battalion and company of the Seventh Steel Corps, priority should be given to drawing elite veterans and outstanding combat personnel from units that are about to enter Korea or are currently resting and reorganizing to fill the vacancies, ensuring that the positions are fully filled.

The requirement is that the candidate must be an experienced and reliable warrior who has fought in at least two battles.

Third, in addition to continuing to ensure the supply of the existing full set of American weapons and equipment, the unit will focus on strengthening automatic weapons and squad-level accompanying support firepower.

The number of light machine guns, submachine guns, and semi-automatic rifles will be increased by 20 percent.

Rocket launchers and 60mm mortars were centrally controlled and allocated by the brigade, but their quantity increased by 40%.

The required ammunition stock is allocated according to the highest standards.

After the words were spoken, silence fell in the car.

Liu Hanqing and Wu Wanli were completely shocked!
My body stiffened in the seat, my heart felt like it was being gripped tightly by an invisible hand, then suddenly released.

This treatment... cannot be simply described as "generous"!
This is something headquarters has never done before!
The condolence money comforts those at home and alleviates the soldiers' worries.

Prioritize recruiting battle-hardened veterans rather than new recruits to ensure the team is tough and full of fighting spirit.

The increased light firepower represents a qualitative leap in squad assault capabilities, especially providing a significant advantage against concentrated infantry assaults by US troops.

Add to that the armored fist composed of more than thirty new tanks...

This practically transformed the Seventh Steel Brigade into a super iron fist that integrates assault power, defensive support power, and sustained combat capability, capable of forming a decisive breakthrough force on any local battlefield!

Not finished yet.

Seemingly feeling that the stimulus wasn't enough, the boss, who had been resting with his eyes closed, slowly opened them again, his gaze falling on Wu Wanli's face as he said:

"Actually, that batch of Soviet-made equipment for the six divisions that just arrived... was a priority allocation that you obtained after winning the battle of Suyun and taking Pyeongtaek."

The right to make recommendations on allocation can be given to you.

"Your Seventh Steel Brigade should develop a general allocation plan based on the actual situation and the needs of the upcoming campaign."

Upon hearing this, Wu Wanli's face lit up with even greater joy.

In fact, the entire Chinese People's Volunteer Army was equipped with more than just the six Soviet-equipped divisions that he won by crossing the Han River four times. Some other units were already equipped with Soviet weapons, but not at full strength.

Under these circumstances, Wu Wanli had already planned to distribute this batch of Soviet weapons to the 27th Army, where Li Yunlong, Kong Jie, and Zhao Gang were stationed, and to the 12th Army, where Ding Weian and Chang Sen were stationed.

It is appropriate to recommend virtuous people regardless of personal relationships, and these two armies have made outstanding contributions in previous battles.

The CEO beside him seemed to notice his deep thought and spoke again, his tone serious:
"Comrade Wu Wanli, honor and responsibility go hand in hand. The Fifth Campaign Planning Conference is about to begin, and the attendees will be the commanders and operations staff of each army. Your Seventh Steel Brigade has made a name for itself this time."

However, some newly arrived commanders of troops who have not yet experienced large-scale bloody battles have some different opinions on the special treatment and equipment replenishment given to you by the headquarters.

They did not witness firsthand the hardships and dangers you faced in the four campaigns, including overcoming tough challenges, breaking through enemy lines, and carrying out infiltration operations.

In the meeting later, you will need to demonstrate your judgment and tactical talent through solid analysis and clear tactical reasoning.

Make sure all comrades understand the necessity of this resource allocation and the crucial role of the Seventh Steel Brigade in future battles.

This is not only about the honor of the Seventh Steel Brigade, but also about the efficiency of the entire front's mission deployment.

Wu Wanli took a deep breath of the air, which was filled with the chill of the air and the smell of engine oil, and looked firmly at the boss, saying:

"Yes, boss! Please rest assured!"

The entire staff of the Seventh Steel Corps exists to tackle the toughest challenges and fight the most crucial battles.

We will certainly demonstrate the capabilities that will convince all our comrades, and we will never disgrace the commanders of the Volunteer Army, nor will we waste a single gun, bullet, or soldier!

Sitting in the passenger seat, Liu Hanqing listened to the conversation in the back and clenched his fist tightly.

He understood the weight of every word his boss spoke, and he trusted Wu Wanli's abilities and promises even more.

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

After an unknown amount of time, the jeep finally stopped in front of a group of low houses, under the cover of a row of sparse but carefully arranged camouflage netting.

The moment the car came to a stop, the engine's hum ceased abruptly, making the heavily guarded area exceptionally quiet.

The volunteer soldier silently pulled open the barbed wire gate of the low-lying camp, his sharp gaze turning into solemn respect after confirming the identities of the people inside the vehicle.

Chief Chen opened the car door, followed closely by the boss. The two of them naturally exuded an unspoken authority with their steps.

Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing almost held their breath as they quickly got off the car from the other side. As soon as their heels touched the ground, their backs were straight as javelins.

Less than ten steps ahead was that ordinary wooden door.

The door panels were rough and the paint was peeling, but this was the very place that would determine the fate of the Fifth Campaign.

Chief Chen nodded slightly, and the guards at the door immediately stepped forward and pushed open the heavy wooden door with both hands.

A strong, pungent odor mixed with voices rushed out from inside the door, only to be quickly suppressed by an invisible force.

The conference room was filled with smoke, and light streamed in through the high windows, swirling and dancing in the beams of light amidst the floating dust.

Several lanterns hung from the thick beams, their flames flickering, casting an intermittent glow on the huge battle map on the wall, which was covered with red and blue arrows and contour lines.

A huge sand table occupies the center, with mountains and plains meticulously stacked on it, and colorful war pieces representing the enemy and our own positions interlocking.

The room was crowded with people. Dozens of senior commanders of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army were either arguing and pointing at the map and sand table, or talking in twos and threes in low voices. Their faces were indistinct in the light and smoke.

Li Yunlong's signature loud voice came from the southeast corner. He was arguing with the person next to him, his voice carrying an undeniable force.

Standing beside him, Kong Jie, with a hand-rolled pipe dangling from his lips, squinted as he examined a corner of the sand table.

Ding Wei leaned against the pillar with his arms crossed, a shrewd smile on his face as usual.

Zhao Gang stood ramrod straight, carefully examining the documents in his hands.

The figures of commanders and soldiers from the 20th, 39th, 40th, 63rd, 64th, and 65th Armies, and other main forces, are all present, some solemn, some anxious, and some deep in thought, forming a high-density command center scene on the eve of a major battle.

"stand at attention!"

Without warning, a short, deep, yet penetrating command, like a cold blade, severed all sound and movement in the room.

The buzzing voices, heated arguments, and the low smacking of tobacco that filled my ears just a second ago... froze instantly and vanished without a trace.

The entire conference room fell into a deathly silence; the air was so heavy it felt like you could squeeze water out of it.

Dozens of eyes turned to them, focusing on the two leaders who had just stepped through the threshold.

Those eyes held unreserved respect and the instinctive obedience of soldiers.

When their gaze passed over the leader and landed on Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing, who were following closely behind, they were also briefly taken aback.

The boss and Chief Chen walked straight across the less than ten-meter-wide space between the doorway and the main seat, the floorboards creaking slightly.

"salute!"

The command is issued again.

brush!
The swing of his arm created a sound in the wind.

Dozens of senior commanders, with their right fingers together and their middle fingers lightly touching the brim of their hats, raised their arms in unison to salute.

The military salute was as firm as a mountain, exuding an aura of grandeur.

All eyes were focused on the two leaders, but out of the corner of their eyes, they couldn't help but glance at Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing, who were following behind and still trying their best to maintain a standard standing posture under the gaze of so many high-ranking generals.

"Take a break."

The boss's voice wasn't loud, but it had a unique magnetic quality.

The simple two words eased the solidified aura of iron and bloodlust somewhat.

At this moment, Chief Chen turned his head and said clearly to Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing behind him, "You two, come up here and stand over here."

He raised his hand and pointed to the large battle map on the wall next to the wide wooden table at the head of the table.

This spot!
Wu Wanli's heart skipped a beat.

Liu Hanqing's throat tightened as well.

Standing next to the head of the group means that, in front of numerous military and corps commanders, the distance to the decision-making center is invisibly shortened to the closest possible.

This is neither the norm nor the norm.

Instantly, all eyes in the room shifted completely.

Dozens of eyes, like searchlights, were fixed on the two of them.

The gaze was extremely complex, like countless threads winding around: there was astonishment, scrutiny, doubt, sudden realization, and even more so, straightforward incomprehension and surging resentment.

Li Yunlong's expression was the first to relax, and he grinned almost unabashedly, quickly raising his thick eyebrows at Wu Wanli, his eyes filled with almost burning approval.

He and Wu Wanli forged a bond of life and death through fighting and brawling, having gone through thick and thin together.

In his eyes, this special arrangement was a well-deserved honor.

Kong Jie unconsciously tightened his grip on the edge of the sand table, his knuckles turning white. He nodded silently, his weathered face bearing the meaning of "that's how it should be."

Ding Wei slowly lowered his arms, which were crossed over his chest, and the habitual, appraising smile on his lips deepened slightly, carrying a sense of pride and understanding.

Zhao Gang's gaze was calm and gentle, silently conveying encouragement.

However, this clear, supportive, and appreciative gaze was only part of the reaction present.

Many generals chose to observe in silence, their faces showing little emotion, their eyes sharp as if scrutinizing two new weapons that had emerged during a heated debate.

These gazes contained a subtle but undeniable assessment and...questioning.

Especially on the faces of those military commanders who had just entered Korea and had not yet experienced head-on battles with the main force of the US military, their confusion and resentment were even more obvious.

They had heard of the formidable reputation of the Seventh Steel Corps, knew that Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing were outstanding young generals, and knew that they had just won a stunning battle during the Four Crossings of the Han River.

However, placing two such young junior commanders in such a high-level operational meeting next to the main seat, coupled with the astonishing and unprecedented equipment replenishment provided by the Volunteer Army Headquarters to the 7th Steel Brigade, makes the disparity in treatment so great that it is hard to be completely convinced.

Some of the most senior and experienced generals frowned imperceptibly.

The wooden table at the head of the table was solid and heavy, its surface worn smooth and shiny, bearing countless marks from map scraping, ashtray knocks, and pencil marks.

There was an empty space below the huge map on the wall, which was exactly the location that Chief Chen had pointed out.

Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing stepped forward as instructed, standing close to the cold earthen wall, their feet almost touching the edge of the conference table legs.

The two men stood at attention again, their postures ramrod straight, their faces tense, and the lines of their jaws revealing their inner turmoil.

Standing before the elite generals of the entire Chinese People's Volunteer Army, he bore the silent pressure.

"sit down."

The boss's calm voice broke the silence that had once again fallen.

Following the order, everyone sat down nimbly, creating a slight rustling sound as the chairs and stools rubbed together.

The boss's gaze seemed to casually sweep across the entire room. When it passed over Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing, he seemed to just remember them, and raised his chin to add, "Give Wu Wanli and Liu Hanqing seats as well."

The tension in Wu Wanli's heart, which had just eased slightly as everyone sat down, instantly tightened again!

All those present were military commanders, at least at the deputy military rank, yet they were being given additional seats next to the main seats.
"Commander, sir! In front of you esteemed leaders, we should simply stand and listen to your orders!"

Without hesitation, Wu Wanli immediately took half a step forward, his voice not loud but exceptionally clear and earnest.

Liu Hanqing quickly followed up, saying, "Please rest assured, sir! I guarantee the mission will be completed! There's no need to add any positions!"

Their attitude was respectful yet resolute.

This undisguised humility was like a cool breeze, blowing away the pent-up emotions caused by differences in treatment and job assignments.

Several elderly commanders, whose brows were previously furrowed, relaxed slightly, their tense backs easing a little. Zhao Gang nodded almost imperceptibly.

However, the subtle tension in the air did not completely dissipate.

The shadow of "resentment" and "overpraise" caused by special treatment and positional arrangements still lingers in the eyes of some generals.

The puzzled look in the eyes of several newly recruited main force commanders did not completely disappear despite the humility of Wu Wanli and his companion.

Steel and supplies are the lifeline of the army. The headquarters placed a heavy burden on the Seventh Steel Brigade, and they couldn't help but weigh the risks deep down.

Can this young unit, with such extraordinary treatment, truly shoulder that banner and influence the outcome of the entire battle?

The boss took in all the complex emotions swirling in the room.

Instead of sitting down, he slowly surveyed the entire venue, his gaze sweeping across familiar and relatively unfamiliar faces like an invisible broom.

A deep smile slowly appeared on his habitually stern face.

"Many of the comrades sitting here are veterans who have fought in various battlefields across the country and have fought all kinds of tough battles."

American-equipped troops... The elite American-equipped divisions of the National Revolutionary Army were certainly not a novelty to many of our comrades.

Perhaps it is precisely because of this that the Seventh Steel Corps was given such an honor by the Volunteer Army Headquarters, and was given priority and preferential treatment in terms of troop composition and equipment replenishment. Some comrades still harbored some resentment in their hearts.

Do you think this is an overstatement?

The boss said.

At this moment, you could hear a pin drop in the conference room.

Even Li Yunlong stopped smiling and looked at his boss seriously.

Those commanders who had doubts in their hearts felt a chill and subconsciously sat up straighter.

"As for the results... hearing about them is ultimately unreliable."

No matter how detailed the report is, the numbers and descriptions on paper cannot compare to the experience of personally enduring the heavy aerial bombs and incendiary bombs of the US military on the battlefield.

I couldn't bear to watch my familiar old comrade-in-arms get burned into a ball of fire by the enemy's flamethrower.

The feeling of being unable to keep up... facing a horde of Sherman tanks pressing in, with only explosive charges and cluster grenades in hand!

The 'prestige' of the Seventh Steel Brigade was forged inch by inch amidst mountains of corpses and seas of blood!

But having the past alone is not enough!

The key to winning battles lies in the future!
I brought this young man here today so that you all could hear what he has to say.

Comrade Wu Wanli!
You tell us!

What is your assessment of the fifth battle we are about to face?
What are the key points?
Speak freely! Use your most honest thoughts!

The boss said.

The moment those words were spoken, the entire conference room fell silent!
The boss sets the stage and calls out names!

This was almost... a chance for Wu Wanli to publicly demonstrate his strategic judgment in the highest-level operational meeting venue!
An opportunity to prove its worth and that the honor bestowed upon the Seventh Steel Brigade is not a mere formality!
The pressure has increased dramatically!

An invisible gaze, like an immense burden, pressed down upon him.

Wu Wanli felt his heart pound violently in his chest.

A strong sense of tension washed over my entire body like an icy tide, and my fingertips felt a little numb.

This wasn't the tension of facing an enemy charge; it was the immense pressure of analyzing the entire battle situation in front of numerous battle-hardened and insightful military commanders!
The boss has set the stage, but what will he rely on to put on his own show?
Is it the historical narrative summarized by later generations in history books?
Those strategic decisions that later generations have labeled "great"?

In this harsh reality, where countless variables intertwine, can they truly fit together perfectly?
If what is said is incorrect, or merely superficial and vague, the resentment caused by special treatment will immediately turn into disappointment...

Time seemed to stretch out at this moment, each second heavy.

But just a few breaths later, an even deeper power surged from the depths of his chest.

Do not!
He is no longer that naive young man who dared to take risks based on a little bit of foresight when he first entered the battlefield!

One battle after another, tempered by blood and fire; one last decision after another, a daring escape from danger; one victory after another—these experiences have long since fused the memories from books and the reverence for history into the deepest practical experience and flesh-and-blood perception!

He was familiar with the faces and temperaments of every elite unit in the U.S. military, understood their strengths and fatal inertia, and could even sense the changes in the breathing frequency of enemy commanders in different situations!

In his mind, countless battlefield models based on the current evolution of the enemy situation were colliding, deducing, and filtering.

The tension, like foam in a storm, was quickly replaced by this honed, almost instinctive confidence.

This confidence stems from the blood and sweat forged in countless victories, and is far more profound than any superficial speculation!
Wu Wanli took a deep breath, preparing to speak the judgment that had already taken shape in his mind, a judgment that embodied countless practical insights and historical lessons—

"Report! Boss! Commander Chen!"

In an instant, a hurried, slightly hoarse voice abruptly cut off the solemn atmosphere that was building up!

Near the door, a volunteer army operations staff officer, with a folder tucked under his arm and sweat beading on his forehead, almost staggered in.

His face showed a mixture of shock and urgency, and his eyes searched urgently for the commander as he said:
"Urgent military situation!"
We've just intercepted deciphered UN frontline radio codes! Latest developments! Their advance…”

"and many more!"

A deep, resonant, and powerful shout, like a thunderclap, abruptly stopped the staff officer's subsequent report!
Swish!
Everyone's attention was forcibly turned again, focusing on the direction from which the shout had come.

A middle-aged general, with a burly build, broad shoulders, thick eyebrows, and sharp, hawk-like eyes, suddenly stood up from his seat.

He was Commander Fu of the 63rd Army, known for his ability to fight tough battles and his resolute and straightforward style.

His scrutiny of Wu Wanli was undisguised, carrying an undeniable, iron-fisted aura:
"Boss! Since you want this kid to show his 'talent,' give him a test."

Then let's put this 'latest' thing aside for now!
Just tell him about the outdated information from a few days ago!

Let him use outdated intelligence to speculate on the current state of the battlefield!
Especially the 'latest progress' that the staff officer was so eager to report!
Comrade Wu Wanli!
The battlefield is ever-changing; only true skill matters!
It's all about the timing and intensity in your mind!
Do you dare to accept?
"Use that outdated battle report to 'calculate' the enemy's current location, movements, and potential size for the commanders present!"

boom--!
The entire conference room felt as if a red-hot iron had been thrown in!

An invisible shockwave exploded instantly!

The sounds of people inhaling rose and fell!
Even Li Yunlong, who had been watching the spectacle with amusement, widened his eyes in surprise.

Kong Jie, standing next to him, instinctively straightened his back, snapping the cigarette he was holding between his fingers!
"This...this is too much! Commander Fu!"
Intelligence simulation requires a foundation!

How many days has it expired?

The battlefield situation is unpredictable and ever-changing; even a difference of just one day can lead to a complete upheaval!
How can one accurately judge real-time developments based on just an old report?
Even gods would find it difficult!
This is simply making things difficult for people!

Liu Hanqing was the first to lose his composure, his voice filled with rare indignation and obvious worry, and he stepped forward to speak.

"Exactly! This is intentional!"
I, Old Li, have fought half my life, and I've never seen anyone test people like this!
Outdated?

Anything can change in an hour on the battlefield!
Do you want to take the exam to become a deity or to travel ten thousand miles?

Li Yunlong also slapped his thigh and stood up, saying.

He called out "Wanli," his protective intent undisguised.

"It's really illogical; the requirements are too high."

If it's just a general direction, that's fine.

Precise, real-time location and movement?
This is too difficult!

Kong Jie also spoke up.

Ding Wei's eyes also showed disapproval, and he shook his head almost imperceptibly.

Even Chief Chen's brows furrowed slightly, clearly indicating that the request exceeded the bounds of reasonable probing.

The boss's gaze swept over Liu Hanqing, who was full of anxiety, Li Yunlong, who was filled with righteous indignation, and others, before finally settling on Wu Wanli's face.

That look seemed to ask: How do you feel? If you don't feel good, don't force it.

The pressure is mounting!

An invisible, almost suffocating pressure gathered once again!

This is no longer a simple tactical explanation or planning suggestion; it is a public test of the limits of judgment.

Its difficulty is akin to determining the precise coordinates of an enemy ship deep in the ocean simply by observing the stars at night!

Success would make them legendary overnight, while failure would solidify any lingering resentment and lead to greater questioning of the special treatment afforded to the Seventh Steel Brigade!

"No problem. Since the commander is willing to test Wanli, Wanli will give it his all!"

Wu Wanli took a deep breath and responded, while simultaneously activating the Heavenly Eye Map in his mind.

(End of this chapter)