Sweep Yuan

Chapter 216 Three Strategies for Unifying the World

Outside the study, the autumn wind swept through the courtyard, bringing with it the rustling sound of withered leaves rubbing against the ground.

Deng Youde stood like an iron tower under the eaves. When he saw Ye Dui's old servant approaching with a scalding hot teapot, he raised his hand to stop him without hesitation.

"Wait!"

The old servant was startled by the sudden low shout and quickly bowed to explain:

"Sir, this is the tea I just brewed in the kitchen, and I'm about to take it to the Marshal and the gentleman."

Deng Youde naturally recognized it as a teapot, but his duty was to ensure absolute safety. Pointing to the still-steaming purple clay teapot, his face stern and uncompromising, he said:
"Take a sip first."

A hint of helplessness and grievance flashed across the old servant's face, but under Deng Youde's unquestionable gaze, he had no choice but to obey.

He took a white porcelain teacup that was upside down on the tray, carefully poured half a cup of boiling tea, then brought it to his lips and blew on it repeatedly until he felt the temperature was suitable for drinking, before tilting his head back and drinking it all in one gulp.

After drinking, he turned the empty cup upside down towards Deng Youde to show his innocence.

Still uneasy, Deng Youde personally picked up the teacup, poured a small amount, blew on it to cool it, and carefully sipped and tasted it, savoring the flavor as it melted on his tongue. Only after confirming there was nothing amiss did his tense expression ease slightly. He nodded, stepped aside to make way, and said:

"Go in. Serve them carefully."

The warmth and sandalwood scent in the study did not dissipate because of this little incident.

Shi Shan had sat down again, his expression returning to calm, but a tiny, unquenchable flame still burned deep in his eyes.

Ye Dui calmed down from his initial shock and excitement, regained his composure, took the teapot brought by the old servant, waved slightly to signal him to leave, and personally poured the clear, slightly yellow tea into the teacups in front of Shi Shan and himself.

The sound of flowing water and rising steam blurred the brief silence between the two.

Ye Dui put down the teapot, but did not drink it immediately. Instead, he continued the previous topic, speaking calmly:

"Xu Shouhui is unfamiliar with the secrets of governing the people, and he doesn't understand what a foundation is. He only knows how to conquer cities and seize land, but he has no ability to stabilize the rear and comfort the people. Fang Guozhen is entrenched in Taizhou, but he has no ambition to dominate the world. His behavior is no different from that of bandits who plunder the coast. He only cares about immediate gains and has no long-term plans."

Even if these two men were to temporarily seize half of the fertile land south of the Yangtze River by sheer luck, it would be like water without a source or a tree without roots; they could never sustain their power for long.

He paused briefly, his gaze sharpening, and gave a resolute judgment.

"In my humble opinion, Fang Guozhen has no chance of succeeding; and Xu Shouhui's defeat is already inevitable! The speed of his downfall will likely far exceed the world's expectations. In as little as half a month, or as long as a month, the prefectures and counties in Jiangsu and Zhejiang that Xu and Song have captured will be completely lost!"

Shishan, coming from the lower reaches of history, naturally knew that neither Xu Shouhui nor Fang Guozhen were the ones who had the last laugh during the chaos at the end of the Yuan Dynasty.

In this life, he has the support of multiple intelligence networks and practical experience in governing several states. He knows that consolidating a solid foundation is far more important than blind expansion. Therefore, he can conclude that Fang and Xu have weak foundations and are unlikely to succeed.

However, given that Ye Dui lived in this era, he was able to draw such a clear conclusion simply by observing Fang Guozhen's rampage along the coast and the lack of emphasis on grassroots development by Xu Song generals such as Xiang Pulue and Peng Yingyu. He was even able to accurately predict that the Xu Song regime would inevitably be defeated and withdraw from the Jiangzhe Province in the short term.

This insightful observation and keen understanding of the current situation is truly astonishing.

Shi Shan was filled with awe and sincerely praised:
"Your Excellency is insightful and has a keen eye for detail! We have just received confidential intelligence that Xu Song's remaining forces have been completely driven out of eastern Zhejiang by the Yuan army's counterattack. In other areas, the two sides are also locked in a fierce tug-of-war."

At this point, he picked up the slightly cool teacup, took a sip, and spoke with a complex and unspoken self-deprecation:
"If this situation continues, it is estimated that by next year at the latest, in terms of the area under our control, our Red Flag Battalion will probably 'rise' to the top of the sphere of influence of the local rebel forces."

At this moment, the title of "first" sounds more like a heavy burden of pressure and a signal of danger.

Ye Dui's face showed no trace of excitement at having correctly predicted his opponent's defeat; instead, it grew increasingly grave. He picked up his teacup, moistened his throat which had become dry from talking for so long, and said with deep concern:
"Although Xu and Song were defeated, the laxity of military preparedness and the lack of defense in various parts of Jiangnan were thoroughly exposed. After this chaos, the prefectures and counties of Jiangnan, and even the local magnates, will surely take this as a lesson and vigorously strengthen city defenses, organize local militias and militias, and enhance military preparedness."

"If the Marshal wishes to lead his troops across the river and conquer Jiangnan in the future, the resistance and difficulties he will face will likely far surpass those faced by Xu and Song today."

Shi Shan was well aware of this, but he did not envy Xu Song's rapid expansion model at all—the more territory one could conquer without stable control, the more dispersed one's power would become, and the faster one would be defeated. The Xu Song regime had already proven this point.

After this turmoil and stimulation, Jiangnan will inevitably shift from a relatively relaxed state to a state of vigilance and preparedness. Shishan, on the contrary, became even more determined in his course of action, replying:
"In all things in the world, the difficulty and ease are roughly the same. Xu Shouhui sought quick success and coveted territory, neglecting the fundamental governance of the land. His quick victory was destined to be followed by a quick defeat, and he ended up doing all the work for others."

My only aim is to advance cautiously, step by step, and solidify my foundation. While it's true that the enemy, strengthened by their growing vigilance, will be more difficult to defeat, once conquered, the newly acquired territories will be more quickly integrated into my rule, making my foundation even stronger and more resilient. Wouldn't that be better?

Ye Dui was impressed by Shi Shan's composure and strong self-confidence. His furrowed brows relaxed slightly, and he chuckled softly.

After laughing, he picked up his teacup again and took two sips, using the opportunity to gather his thoughts, which had been stirred by Shi Shan's expansive ideas, and steered the conversation back to the pressing issues at hand. He then said:
"Conquering Jiangnan is not something that can be accomplished in a day; it requires long-term planning and a gradual approach. The most pressing issue right now is that if Xu Song is completely defeated and the Marshal has made it clear that he will never accept the Yuan court's offer of amnesty, then our Red Flag Battalion will inevitably become the Yuan court's number one target that they want to eliminate as soon as possible."

At that time, our army will be firmly tied down to the north bank of the Yangtze River by the main force of the Yuan Dynasty. Even if we have the will to cross the river, we will likely lack the strength to look south.

This was precisely what Shi Shan was deeply worried about. That's why, even at the height of his unprecedented victory in Xuzhou, he risked the possibility that his civil and military officials might become suspicious or even disloyal, and still made contact with the envoy sent by the Yuan court.

With a more flexible and pragmatic diplomatic approach, we can buy the Red Flag Battalion this crucial respite to prepare for war.

After a moment of contemplation, Shi Shan decided to speak frankly to this strategist who had demonstrated exceptional strategic vision, saying:
"To be honest, Your Excellency, the Yuan court has indeed recently sent envoys into the country, intending to offer amnesty and divide our tribe. Although I do not wish to negotiate with the Yuan court, in order to gain a respite, I will still feign compliance with them. I wonder if this strategy is appropriate?"

Upon hearing this, Ye Dui showed no surprise or objection; instead, his eyes shone with admiration, and he clapped his hands in praise:

"This is precisely the first piece of advice I wish to offer to the Marshal—the Yuan court is powerful and deeply entrenched. Although the Marshal has the ambition to overthrow the Yuan, he cannot act recklessly and forcefully. At this critical juncture, it is necessary to assess the situation and employ strategic maneuvering."

Feigning allegiance will keep the Yuan court in a state of illusion, causing them to hesitate and unable to concentrate their full strength against my Red Flag Battalion. This is an excellent strategy!

"Ah."

Shi Shan nodded, relieved by Ye Dui's understanding, but he immediately raised a deeper concern, saying:

"But this strategy can be used once or twice, but not three times. Sooner or later, the Yuan court will realize that I have no real intention of accepting the amnesty. At that time, they will be furious and will come with all their might. What can we do then?"

Ye Dui had already roughly guessed Shi Shan's thoughts. Looking at Marshal Shi's calm eyes, he knew that the other party's words were half a question and half a test, so he stroked his beard and smiled:

"Why should the Marshal test his subordinates? Hasn't the Marshal's previous plan already proven feasible? By defeating the main force of the Yuan army outside Xuzhou City, while retaining Sesame Li's position as commander-in-chief, there is no danger in the north."
Your subordinates believe that, given the Marshal's foresight, he would never stand idly by and watch Xu Song be completely defeated, allowing the Yuan court to focus all its efforts on us. He must have a backup plan and will certainly provide support when the opportunity arises, even if it is only a slight restraint.”

His eyes shone brightly as he continued:
"As long as the Yuan court cannot completely annihilate the rebel armies of Xuzhou Sesame Li, Runing Prefecture Liu Futong, and even the defeated Xu Song and other local rebel armies, then our Red Flag Battalion will be surrounded by various forces. Although it seems that we are surrounded by enemies on all sides, in reality, we are also mutually protective. Even if our territory temporarily becomes the most prominent among the rebel armies and becomes the most conspicuous target in the eyes of the Yuan court, what is there to fear? The Yuan court will be tied down by the rebel armies on all sides and will never be able to launch a full-scale attack. This is the space in which our Red Flag Battalion can maneuver and maneuver."

"Hahaha!"

Upon hearing this, Shi Shan burst into laughter. Conversing with a wise man was indeed much easier and less stressful.

He certainly had no intention of sacrificing his own resources to rescue Xu Shouhui, but he would never mind secretly tripping up the Yuan court and throwing some stones at it before the Xu-Song ship sank completely, preventing it from calmly dealing with the situation and allowing it to smoothly extricate itself from dealing with the Red Flag Battalion.

Ye Dui is right. The Red Flag Camp is surrounded by various forces. Although geographically it seems to be limited and its development is hindered, it also naturally has the geographical advantage of maneuvering among the major forces and using their strengths against them.

As long as the Yuan court cannot eliminate these large and small resistance forces, it will be unable to concentrate all its forces to deal with Shishan.

"The anti-Yuan rebels across the land should be of one mind and one heart."

Shi Shan's laughter gradually subsided, and his tone carried a hint of reminiscence and emotion as he said:

“Back then, when I was in Xuzhou, I strongly urged Li Guang, the sesame seed, to issue a proclamation, sincerely inviting heroes from all over the world to raise the banner of righteousness together and strive for the righteous title of ‘leader’ of the anti-Yuan alliance, so as to command all parties and integrate the anti-Yuan forces.”

Unfortunately, although Sesame Lee was a hero of his time, he failed to recognize the profound strategy behind it and did not implement it.

Shi Shan's gaze sharpened and hardened again, and he said:
"Now, I no longer desire that empty fame. But the Mongol Yuan dynasty is tyrannical, the world is in turmoil, and the people are suffering. None of the surrounding forces can shoulder the banner of overthrowing the Yuan and restoring the Han, and my Red Flag Battalion has been pushed to the forefront by the times. So who else but me can shoulder this heavy responsibility of restoring our country!"

Although Shi Shan did not directly admit to taking concrete action to rescue Xu Song, he clearly stated his willingness to take on the responsibility of leading the anti-Yuan cause. Ye Dui was deeply moved, feeling that his ambitions had finally found a wise leader, and excitedly said:

"I am of limited talent and learning, skilled in writing but clumsy in speaking. I have already drafted a three-point plan regarding the general strategy of unifying the north from the south, intending to offer it to the Marshal. However, after listening to the Marshal's words just now, I was deeply inspired, and many new ideas have come to mind. I am afraid I need to carefully consider and organize them again."

Please allow me to give this matter careful consideration before submitting a detailed written report.

Shi Shan knew that Ye Dui's words were a humble remark, but rather that the conversation had sparked deeper reflections, so he pressed his advantage and said:

"Why be so modest, Chief Minister? If you have any thoughts, whether they are mature or not, please speak them out. We can then discuss and deliberate on them together."

Ye Dui pondered for a moment, then organized his thoughts and said:
"Very well, then I will first briefly explain the three strategies I have been considering to the Marshal."

This first step is to deal with the remaining issues caused by Xu Shouhui.

Xu Song was ignorant of the essentials of governing a region; his rise was swift, and his fall was equally sudden. If the Marshal wishes to take Jiangnan, he must not allow it to be completely annihilated. He must allow it to retain some of its strength to continue drawing the Yuan court's military might and attention, giving us time to regroup and make strategic moves.

We must not allow them to grow too powerful again, lest they obstruct our southward advance in the future. Keeping them in a state of near-death, barely surviving, is the most advantageous position for our Red Flag Battalion.

"Ok!"

This argument perfectly aligned with Shi Shan's thoughts. Since Ye Dui had already made it clear, as the ruler, he saw no need to hide anything and immediately nodded slightly, saying:
"Please continue, Master of Ceremonies."

Ye Duixin knew that his in-depth conversation with Shishan today would require adjustments or even reconstruction of many viewpoints, but some of his previous thoughts still had value and he was unwilling to completely discard them, so he immediately continued:
"This second point is aimed at Fang Guozhen. Although this barbarian has no ambition to conquer the world, he is well-versed in water and skilled in naval warfare. His fleet travels back and forth on the sea, confronting the Yuan Dynasty's navy, and has never been defeated."

He worried that Shi Shan might underestimate his opponent, so he raised his voice and said:
"If the Marshal wishes to take Jiangnan in the future, the Yangtze River will be an essential passage, and the stability of the southeast coast is also of paramount importance. We must not bypass Fang Guozhen. Therefore, we must plan ahead and vigorously develop the Red Flag Battalion Navy."

If we cannot defeat Fang Guozhen's fleet head-on with a powerful navy and crush his arrogance, even if we temporarily pacify his troops, it will inevitably leave behind a deep-seated threat that will plague future generations!

Ye Dui's hometown, Haining Prefecture, is very close to Taizhou Road, where Fang Guozhen was active. He clearly abhorred Fang Guozhen's repeated defections and piracy, which ravaged the local area. His family's interests were also likely to be greatly harmed by Fang Guozhen. Therefore, he did not hesitate to put this issue separately and emphasized that the Fang Guozhen problem must be completely resolved.

Shishan knew that, in the original historical trajectory, more than a hundred years after the fall of the Mongol Yuan Dynasty, the world would have ushered in a magnificent Age of Exploration. The Ming Dynasty, which originally had the opportunity to take the lead, missed its chance for various reasons, which is regrettable.

Since he has come into this world, he will never allow history to repeat itself, and maritime rights must be taken seriously.

Shi Shan's expression became extremely serious, and he solemnly said:

"The Grand Master's concerns are very valid. The Yuan Dynasty's territory spans thousands of miles, and the canal transport between the north and south is the lifeline for maintaining its rule. Although the Yuan court pioneered sea transport to supplement the inland canal transport, it has always paid insufficient attention to it and relied too much on the inland canal transport."

If the Yellow River floods and changes course, or if a rebellion breaks out and cuts off the Grand Canal, the empire's northern border will face the danger of starvation, and its collapse will be imminent.

His gaze drifted to the window, as if he were looking out at the endless blue sky, and he continued:

"If I can establish a new dynasty, I will learn a profound lesson from the Yuan dynasty. If the coast is not peaceful and maritime power is lost, how can I vigorously develop maritime transport and open up sea routes? If Fang Guozhen can be pragmatic and understand the greater good, and help me dominate the deep sea, then I might as well give him a way to make amends for his mistakes."

If these people remain stubborn and continue to bully the weak and plunder for a living, hindering my great cause of maritime expansion, then I would rather postpone the unification cause for several years than fail to exert all my strength to thoroughly clear the maritime borders and eliminate future troubles!

Ye Dui's biggest worry was that Shi Shan would adopt a policy of appeasement towards Fang Guozhen in order to unify the world as soon as possible, thus condoning evil. Seeing that he had such a clear understanding and firm determination, Ye Dui felt relieved and a look of relief appeared on his face.

He took a deep breath and revealed his third strategy:

"This third section is aimed at the powerful clans in Jiangnan. Jiangnan is different from Jiangbei. The clans there have deep roots and have cultivated the local area for hundreds of years. They are not only local powerful families, but also the foundation and link of the Yuan court's rule at the grassroots level."

At this point, Ye Dui paused for a moment, his brows furrowed with deep conflict and helplessness, finally letting out a long sigh before continuing:
"If we cannot completely replace the clan and effectively control the grassroots, then please do not easily touch this foundation, lest it cause violent local turmoil and damage the Red Flag Battalion's rule, which would be a loss."

All of Ye Dui's previous arguments were both far-sighted strategic plans and specific action guidelines, with clear logic and strong operability. Only this third strategy appears rather vague and conservative.

This was not because he himself came from a powerful family and therefore held back or hesitated, but rather because he was limited by the perspective of his time. Ye Duineng keenly perceived that clan power was a huge obstacle and a key point in ruling Jiangnan, but he could not imagine how to solve this age-old problem.

Ishiyama also didn't know the perfect solution.

All he knew was that until his transmigration, the clan power in many southern regions remained strong, and even began to resurge in many places. He was self-aware enough to know that a problem that even so many outstanding figures in later generations had failed to completely solve, he naturally dared not claim that he could easily handle it.

But he had at least reached the middle of history; he didn't necessarily have to confront them head-on. He had more covert methods, and immediately replied:

"Your insightful remarks today have enlightened me, and I now have a clear strategy for conquering the world. The affairs of the clans in Jiangnan certainly require careful consideration and a long-term perspective. I will ponder the specific strategies carefully. I humbly request that you await my guidance!"

(End of this chapter)