Sweep Yuan

Chapter 181 Taking Hefei Only Requires One Scholar

The city of Hefei, which should have been bustling with activity in the afternoon, was shrouded in an unusual gloom.

The city gates were tightly shut, the drawbridge was suspended high, and the number of soldiers patrolling the city walls had increased significantly. The rustling sound of armor plates rubbing together was particularly jarring in the overly somber atmosphere, and a distinct sense of panic permeated the air.

Inside the General's Mansion, Hefei Army Deputy General Zuo Junfu, Commander Yin Congdao, Zhang Huan, and others were gathered around a rough map. Their brows were furrowed, and their faces were clouded with worry. The sound of hurried footsteps echoed from the corridor outside the door, each one like a pounding on their tense heartstrings.

"Report! The vanguard of Shishan has passed Xiaoshushan!"

Xiaoshushan is located west of Hefei. After passing Xiaoshushan, Shishan's army was only forty li away from the city, clearly heading towards Hefei.

"Explore again!"

Zuo Junfu waved his hand impatiently to dismiss the scouts, a vein throbbing slightly on his forehead. He then slammed his fist on the table, making the teacups clink.

"Two thousand elite troops, all veterans who have fought hard battles. Second Brother took the main force to Hezhou, leaving us old, weak and disabled soldiers to defend the city. Shishan, however, came with the momentum of a great victory, clearly with ill intentions!"

His eyes were filled with anxiety, as if he could already see the iron hooves of the Shishan army trampling through the city gates; his voice trembled slightly with excitement.
"We can't hesitate any longer! Immediately dispatch a fast horse, traveling day and night, to Hezhou to urge Second Brother to return with his troops! Hefei is our foundation; we cannot afford to lose it!"

"No!"

Zhang Huan had always looked down on Zuo Junfu, who lacked command and combat abilities, and immediately voiced his opposition. He still needed crutches to walk, but his leg injury had healed by about 50-60%, and he had regained some of his former general's demeanor.

"The Yuan army is locked in a fierce battle with Hezhou, and Shao Rong is keeping a close watch. If the general retreats hastily, and the Yuan army and Shao Rong take the opportunity to attack from both sides, the entire army will be wiped out! Even if you manage to retreat, your men and horses will be exhausted, while Shishan will be waiting in ambush and can easily surround you at the city gates!"

"Then what do you suggest we do? Just sit here and wait to die?!"

Zuo Junfu knew he lacked prestige and had been quite tolerant of Zhang Huan in his daily life, but he didn't expect this fellow to be so sarcastic even at this point. He was immediately furious and raised his voice several decibels.

"Are we just going to stand by and watch Shishan wipe out our base?"

Zhang Huan stiffened his neck, a glint of ruthlessness flashing in his eyes, and said:
"Sit and wait to die? Why don't we take advantage of Shishan's exhaustion from his long journey and his unstable foothold, gather the city's best soldiers, open the city gates, and launch a surprise attack, catching him off guard! To capture the enemy, we must first capture their leader. If we can kill Shishan in battle, the Red Flag Camp will be leaderless, and the crisis will be resolved!"

He became more and more excited as he spoke, as if he could already see the successful surprise attack and the rout of the Red Flag Battalion. But when he finished speaking, the hall fell into dead silence. Everyone looked at each other, and no one responded.

"Commander Zhang".

Yin Congdao, though also a commander of a thousand, was the most senior due to his years of service under Zuo Wu. Even when Zuo Junbi was alive, his opinions had to be respected. Yin Congdao's voice wasn't loud, but it carried an undeniable weight, instantly silencing the argument between Zuo Junfu and Zhang Huan.
"Who is Shi Shan? Even a ruthless hero like Zhu Liangzu fell into his hands. How could he have come unprepared? Besides, if our army truly had the strength to fight the Red Flag Battalion in the field, why did General Zuo have to compromise and pledge allegiance to Shi Shan, establishing that master-servant relationship and tying his own hands?"

These words left Zhang Huan blushing and speechless. The other generals in the hall nodded silently, clearly agreeing with Yin Congdao's assessment. With such limited resources, the Hefei army was only fit to defend the city; to engage in open battle, especially an attack on Shishan with its battle-hardened elite troops, would be tantamount to throwing eggs against rocks.

Seeing that everyone had quieted down, Yin Congdao stroked his white beard before continuing in a deep voice:
"Gentlemen, in the current situation, a single move can have far-reaching consequences. The slightest misstep could lead to utter ruin. I believe that the distinction between master and servant is both a constraint and a protection for our Hefei Army."

If Shi Shan were to take advantage of the general's distant expedition to attack Hefei without cause, it would be unjust, destroying his own reputation for resisting the Yuan dynasty. How would the heroes of the world view Shi Shan? How would the people of Jianghuai speak of the Red Flag Battalion? Even if Hefei were captured, how would it be governed?”

He paused, his sharp gaze sweeping over each face, and then said:
"If our army launches a surprise attack on the Red Flag Battalion without asking why, that would be disloyalty. Even if Shishan originally had no intention of attacking the city, it would give them a perfect excuse to annihilate us as a warning to others. In the current situation, whoever strikes first loses morality and the hearts of the people!"

Yin Congdao's voice echoed in the silent official hall, and the anxiety and hostility on everyone's faces gradually subsided. Loyalty and righteousness are often worthless platitudes, yet sometimes they carry more weight than swords and spears. Why has the Hefei army struggled to survive? Isn't it because they lack a strong sense of righteousness?

"Then, Uncle Yin, what do you think we should do?" Zuo Junfu took a deep breath, suppressing his unease, and his tone softened considerably.

"Prepare for both situations."

Yin Congdao held up two fingers, his tone calm and firm.

"First, immediately order the entire army to be on alert! All soldiers who can take up arms should immediately go up the city wall, distribute defensive equipment, and send rolling stones, logs, and oil to the city wall. Also, mobilize the civilians and strongmen in the city to go up the city wall to assist in the defense and increase the momentum."

We must show Shi Shan that the people and soldiers of Hefei are determined to fight to the death, even if it means mutual destruction. Only by demonstrating our strength can we instill fear in him and prevent him from making a hasty move!
Second, immediately select a bold, meticulous, and eloquent person, carrying official documents, to go out of the city and pay homage to Marshal Shi. Clearly state the alliance between our Hefei Army and the Red Flag Battalion, and remind him not to sacrifice the great cause of resisting the Yuan for short-term gains, thereby alienating allies and causing pain to our allies and joy to our enemies.

As long as he's willing to give a plausible explanation, even if it's just a stopover for rest, our army will treat him with courtesy, provide him with provisions, and escort him out of the country. If he refuses to leave, we will not be morally dishonest and can then ask General Zuo to return."

These wise and insightful words on national strategy were well-reasoned and logical, taking into account both strength and morality, and were recognized by most of the generals in the hall.

Although Zuo Junfu was unwilling, he understood that this was the safest solution at present, and nodded heavily:
"Let's do as Uncle Yin says and prepare quickly!"

Before long, the heavy drawbridge slowly lowered with a piercing creak, kicking up a cloud of dust. The city gates swung open, and a cavalry force of about fifty men sped out like arrows, raising clouds of dust as they headed west.

Before the troop could even approach the Red Flag Battalion's vanguard formation, it was stopped by scouts on the perimeter. After ascertaining their purpose, the scouts rode off to report. Soon, a squadron of Red Flag Battalion cavalry arrived, led by Feng Guosheng, commander of the Second Battalion of the Valiant Cavalry Guard, whose gaze fell upon the young general from Hefei.

"State your name! What brings you here?"

"This humble general, Ye Sheng, a centurion of the Hefei army, has come to pay homage to Marshal Shishan on the orders of the deputy general, to inquire about the purpose of the army's arrival!"

Ye Shengqiang forced himself to remain calm and answered loudly, though his palms were already slightly sweaty. He could feel the chilling killing intent emanating from the Red Flag Battalion cavalry, far surpassing that of the Hefei garrison.

Feng Guosheng nodded expressionlessly and said:
"The Marshal is in the central command post. Do not charge. Only you are allowed to remove your armor and come with me. The rest of you, wait here!"

Ye Sheng's heart tightened, but since things had come to this point, he had no choice but to bite the bullet and agree.

"As ordered!"

After removing his armor and handing his weapons to his subordinates, Ye Sheng straightened his back and rode behind Feng Guosheng, heading deeper into the Red Flag Battalion's marching column.

Along the way, countless gazes, some cold, some curious, and some scrutinizing, fell upon Ye Sheng, making him feel as if he were being pricked by needles. His warhorse seemed to sense the pressure as well, snorting uneasily.

Finally, surrounded by layers of heavily armored guards, Ye Sheng saw the bright red banner with the character "Shi" fluttering in the wind, and the figure sitting on horseback under the banner, clad in black armor—Marshal Shishan.

Ye Sheng felt an invisible pressure bearing down on him, almost making it hard for him to breathe. He quickly dismounted, took a few quick steps, and knelt on one knee to pay his respects, his movements slightly stiff from the tension.

"This humble general, Ye Sheng, a centurion of the Hefei army, pays his respects to the Marshal! The Left General is currently leading the main force in a fierce battle against the Yuan army at the Hezhou front, and the Deputy General is unwell and unable to welcome the Marshal. This humble general apologizes on behalf of the Deputy General and all the generals remaining in Hefei! May I ask, may I ask, what brings the Marshal to Hefei with his large army?"

Ye Sheng tried his best to keep his voice loud, but the slight tremor at the end of his voice still betrayed his inner tension and unease.

"Hahaha!"

A hearty laugh rang out, breaking the heavy atmosphere. Shi Shan, seated on his horse, looked down at the young general who was clearly tense but trying to maintain his composure, a barely perceptible glint of amusement in his eyes. He spoke loudly:

"Commander Ye, no need for formalities, please stand up and speak." Only after Ye Sheng stood up somewhat awkwardly did Shi Shan slowly begin to speak.

"Several months ago, General Zuo surrendered the city and changed his flag, and Hefei has been under the jurisdiction of my Red Flag Battalion ever since. As I inspect my own territory and examine my own city, do I... need to inform you in advance? Do I need your permission?"

Shi Shan spoke with a smile, but every word was like a needle. Ye Sheng felt his scalp tingle and his back was instantly soaked with cold sweat.

This is a critical issue. To admit that Shishan is the master of Hefei? That would render all the precautions taken by the generals left behind as acts of rebellion!
Deny it? That would be blatant disobedience, giving Shishan a perfect excuse to take action!

Although Ye Sheng possessed considerable courage and resourcefulness, he was, after all, only eighteen years old. Faced with the questioning of a powerful figure like Shi Shan, he was still somewhat naive. He dared not answer directly, yet feared that silence or refusal would immediately anger the other party. His lips trembled a few times before he could only stammer:

"Marshal, it is...it is...this humble general...this humble general is merely acting under orders and has come to inquire. There is absolutely no...absolutely no intention to offend. Please...please forgive me for any inappropriate words!"

He felt like he was being roasted over a fire, every breath was excruciating.

"That's all."

Seeing Ye Sheng's embarrassed expression, Shi Shan knew that this young man was merely a mouthpiece, incapable of making decisions or extracting deeper information. He waved his hand, softening his tone:
"I won't make things difficult for you. Just answer one question, and you can go back and report—who sent you out of the city?"

Upon hearing this, Ye Sheng quickly calculated in his mind. Although this question might involve disagreements among the generals in Hefei, it didn't touch upon military secrets such as the city's troop deployment, so he should be able to answer it. He breathed a slight sigh of relief, quickly clasped his hands in a fist salute, and said:
"Reporting to the Marshal, it was Commander Yin who sent this humble general out of the city."

"Yin Congdao... Okay, I understand."

Shi Shan had already gathered most of the intelligence on the generals in Hefei. A knowing glint flashed in his eyes as he said to Ye Sheng:

"Wait outside the formation for a while. I will send someone to accompany you back to the city to explain in detail the purpose of the Red Flag Battalion's visit."

Ye Sheng felt as if he had been granted a pardon and quickly bowed in respect:
"Thank you, Marshal! Your humble servant obeys!"

After Ye Sheng withdrew, the smile on Shi Shan's face gradually faded, and he turned to the messenger standing to the side and said:
"Pass on the Wang Zongdao tradition."

During the Battle of Liuan, Wang Zongdao was sent by Zhu Liangzu to seek an audience with Shishan, but was instead turned against him by Shishan. Later, he made many contributions in convicting Zhu Liangzu and reorganizing Liuan City, so Shishan took him under his wing and appointed him as a military advisor.

Although this man has flaws in character—he is cowardly, greedy for life, and eager to scheme—he is quite quick-witted, eloquent, and has a commanding presence. In the presence of those generals of humble origins, he naturally possesses an aura of "reason." He is perfectly suited to be sent to Hefei to eliminate this threat to his heart.

Before long, Wang Zongdao came running over with a bitter look on his face and a flicker in his eyes. He bowed deeply to Shishan.

"marshal!"

Seeing Wang Zongdao's expression, Shishan knew he had probably guessed something, but he didn't give him a chance to deny it, and said in a deep voice:
"Officer Wang, Hefei is the heart of our Red Flag Battalion's control over the cities. Zuo Junbi is a smooth-talking man with limited ambition, far less unruly than Zhu Liangzu, and can still obey my orders. However, his subordinates are entrenched in Hefei, forming their own system. In time, this will inevitably become a threat from within."

Wang Zongdao felt a chill run down his spine upon hearing this, and subconsciously looked up, only to meet Shi Shan's sharp gaze. He quickly lowered his head.

"I have come here to unite the forces of the cities under my jurisdiction, so that we can fight against the Yuan court's massive counterattack. You are quick-witted and eloquent. Would you be so kind as to enter the city, meet with the generals, explain the advantages and disadvantages, and persuade them to follow the trend and fight against the tyrannical Yuan together?"

"How can one tolerate another's snoring beside one's bed?" The Red Flag Battalion, having not yet captured Chaoxian, Lujiang, Shucheng, and Lu'an, could still tolerate Hefei's separatist rule. But now that all the cities have fallen, including Hefei, it is the perfect time to take this city.

"This……"

Although he knew that the Red Flag Battalion's several thousand soldiers were arrayed outside the city, ensuring his safety, the memory of his previous humiliating experience at Shishan during his mission on behalf of Zhu Liangzu resurfaced, making Wang Zongdao somewhat resistant to the role of "envoy." He licked his dry lips and hesitated, saying:

"This humble servant is of limited knowledge and is truly unfamiliar with the situation in Hefei. If I were to go there rashly, and say something inappropriate, I might jeopardize the Marshal's grand plan!"

Whether the generals left behind in Hefei could be forced to surrender depended on the overwhelming "momentum" of the Red Flag Battalion over the Hefei army. The envoy's eloquence was merely icing on the cake. With such "momentum" in hand, Shishan would naturally not force Wang Zongdao to just talk.

Ishiyama's tone softened as he said:

"The generals in the city are not a unified force. The steady and experienced Yin Congdao should be their leader. He values ​​reputation and understands the bigger picture..."

After listening to Shi Shan's account, Wang Zongdao felt more confident. He understood that the purpose of this trip was not coercion but psychological manipulation. His resistance vanished, and a sense of vanity and a desire for recognition and merit quietly began to grow within him. He gritted his teeth, bowed deeply, and said:
"Marshal's analysis is so insightful that it has enlightened me! I am willing to go and will do my utmost to persuade the generals to surrender, so as not to fail the Marshal's trust!"

At that moment, he felt no longer like a defeated envoy fleeing in panic, but a strategist about to achieve great feats.

Seeing the renewed fighting spirit and confidence in Wang Zongdao's eyes, Shi Shan nodded in satisfaction, a hint of approving smile appearing on his face:

"Very well! I await your good news. Quickly prepare to enter the city with Ye Sheng immediately!"

Shi Shan's army eventually set up a series of camps at the foot of Da Shu Mountain, twenty miles from Hefei City. The army, along with civilians, numbered over ten thousand, with banners waving and spears and halberds standing like a forest, their chilling aura reaching the sky.

On the other hand, the city walls of Hefei were already on high alert, with the defending troops lined up on each wall, weapons unsheathed, stones rolled up the walls, bowstrings taut, and the air so heavy it seemed as if water could be wrung out of it.

Wang Zongdao changed into a clean scholar's blue robe and wore a square scarf on his head. He tried his best to maintain a refined and composed demeanor. He followed Ye Sheng through the heavy city gate. As soon as they entered the barbican, a chilling aura hit them.

"Arm your troops to welcome the guests!" A powerful yet chilling command rang out.

Two squads of gleaming armored, burly soldiers were already lined up, waiting. Their faces were expressionless, their eyes sharp as hawks, and they raised their gleaming swords and spears in a sudden, crossed motion, forming a gleaming, menacing archway of weapons in the passageway.

In the dim light of the city gate passage, the metallic sharpness gleamed with a deathly hue, the air thick with the chilling scent of rust and leather. This ritual was intended to intimidate the envoys with the most direct force, chilling them to the bone before any negotiations even began.

In the past, Wang Zongdao would have been terrified, but he already knew the true strength of Hefei and had witnessed the real elite troops. The deliberately created scene before him seemed like a bluff compared to the unintentional murderous aura of the Red Flag Battalion.

It's even a little ridiculous.

Wang Zongdao straightened the square scarf on his head, brushed off non-existent dust from his blue robe, took a deep breath, raised his head, straightened his back, ignored the menacing blade above him, and strode through the "Arch of Swords and Spears" that symbolized the intimidation of force.

He could feel the scrutiny and pressure from the soldiers on both sides, and he could feel the chill emanating from the blades above his head, but his belief was unwavering: on this mission, he represented the thousands of Red Flag Battalion's elite troops outside the city, and he represented Marshal Shi's sweeping momentum across the Jianghuai region.

After passing through heavily guarded streets, Wang Zongdao was brought to the Hefei government office. Zuo Junfu sat at the head of the table, while the city's generals stood with their hands on their swords on either side. Their gazes were all fixed on Wang Zongdao, filled with scrutiny, vigilance, and a hint of barely perceptible anxiety.

Without announcing his official title or name, and without waiting for his host to speak first, Wang Zongdao, under the watchful eyes of everyone, suddenly flicked his sleeve and announced loudly:

"The Marshal has personally led over ten thousand troops and is currently encamped at Mount Dashu, twenty miles outside the city. Instead of paying your respects, you are putting on this farcical show in the city. Do you think that by scaring me away, you can save tens of thousands of soldiers and civilians in the city from the calamity of war? Do you think that you can protect your families in this chaotic world?!"

(End of this chapter)