Upon hearing Ren Feihong’s words, Shi Zhuhe’s eyes flickered, guessing that before her departure, the Emperor must have given her some instructions.
Talented people often possess a certain degree of arrogance. Had it been during the reign of Emperor Li, Shi Zhuhe would certainly have refused, citing the principle that “a general in the field is not bound by orders from the sovereign,” in order to prevent the Emperor from issuing reckless commands that could harm the troops. However, he admired the new emperor’s abilities. During the Western Tribes war, he had even wished he could seek advice face-to-face. Without hesitation, he now entrusted Ren Feihong with planning and arranging the matter.
Ren Feihong smiled. “This man is anxious. General, let him wait a couple of days.”
Shi Zhuhe nodded. Although he had arranged for Gan Wei to stay in the camp and met with him daily, whenever the other raised the issue of deploying troops, Shi Zhuhe would evade with vague remarks, merely smiling and saying, “There’s no need to rush.” He added, “The weather is so cold – it’s the perfect time to sit around the stove and drink a few cups of warm wine. Why bother mobilizing forces for battle?”
The weather at this time of year was not yet too cold for movement. If a scholar like Gan Wei could venture outside, how much more so could soldiers accustomed to outdoor activities? Shi Zhuhe’s words were, of course, nothing more than an excuse.
“The weather is growing colder. Your Majesty should add more layers.”
Chi Yi brought over a cloak and draped it over Wen Yanran, who was standing outside the hall gazing into the distance.
Wen Yanran smiled faintly. “There’s no wind here. Wearing a little less is no trouble.”
She had just returned from Tianfu Palace. According to Great Zhou dynasty tradition, the Emperor was expected to write something to be burned for the ancestors on their birthday, offering an update on their recent work. Due to the western campaign, Wen Yanran had missed her own birthday celebration and had entirely forgotten the ritual. It was only after being reminded by her ministers that she went to pay a simple tribute to her ancestors.
The moment the work report, penned by an aide, was completely burned to ashes, a fresh notification popped up –
[System:
Side Mission [Eternal Joy] completed. Player has successfully survived. Wishing you a pleasant gaming experience.]
Wen Yanran: “…”
Staring at the long-forgotten side mission tucked away in the corner, she felt the system really ought to create an active mission list – lest players inadvertently overlook tasks through no fault of their own.
Upon returning from Tianfu Palace, Wen Yanran ordered the Ministry of Works to retrieve and carefully review the waterway blueprints around Jianping.
Having served as the capital for too long, Jianping’s waterways were plagued by siltation in many areas. Wen Yanran looked through past records and found that many royal ponds – whether in water level or depth – had significantly deteriorated compared to their former state. Although they were cleaned annually, the results were far from satisfactory. In addition to constructing new canals, Wen Yanran also planned a major overhaul of the old waterways.
Chi Yi understood the Emperor’s intentions but hesitated for a moment before saying, “The Western region has only just been pacified. Court ministers will likely advise Your Majesty to prioritize stability and recuperation.”
Wen Yanran looked up and smiled. “You’re mistaken, Ah-Yi – not ‘likely,’ they certainly will.”
By openly requisitioning the blueprints, the Emperor made her intentions clear even without explicitly stating them. The ministers did not necessarily oppose Wen Yanran’s efforts to improve public works projects, but the shortage of manpower remained a difficult hurdle to overcome. It had been a year since the new emperor ascended the throne, yet various government offices were still not fully staffed – particularly the Ministry of Works. Its head, Huang Xu, was an old minister retained from Emperor Li’s reign, whose abilities were quite limited. He should never have risen to the rank of a ministry director. His career advancement owed much to his former leader’s ruthless efficiency in eliminating all of Huang Xu’s formidable rivals. However, once the diligent new emperor took the throne, Huang Xu’s shortcomings became glaringly apparent, leaving him increasingly strained and exhausted.
Senior ministers such as Grand Tutor Yuan were also troubled by this situation.
An advisor to the Yuan household remarked, “Her Majesty has already made up her mind but has yet to state it outright. Naturally, she is waiting for the ministers to take the initiative.”
Yuan Yanshi frowned. “This is rather difficult…”
Having adjusted his mindset, Grand Tutor Yuan now considered matters from the perspective of a loyal minister, expressing concern on behalf of the Emperor. While it was commendable for the ruler to be ambitious and driven, excessive haste might lead to setbacks. If preparations for the cleanup were to begin now, it would likely mean conscripting laborers after the spring thaw. But wouldn’t that interfere with the spring planting season?
Today’s private gathering at the Yuan residence was not attended by Wang Youyin. On one hand, she had been staying within the palace during this period; on the other, as a palace aide, a crucial standard of her role was to never disclose discussions held within the imperial confines.
During the later years of the previous emperor’s reign, few scholar-officials genuinely adhered to such ministerial standards.
Though Wang Youyin was not called to the meeting, she found the situation somewhat puzzling. She had a vague understanding of the true circumstances in the east and was momentarily surprised that the Emperor still had the leisure to consider waterway issues. Could it be that some favorable news had arrived?
In truth, at this moment, the messenger dispatched by Shi Zhuhe was still en route. However, Wen Yanran had already obtained the intelligence she needed in advance through the [War Sandbox].
At the camp on Shanyu Slope.
Growing increasingly anxious after repeated delays, Gan Wei could no longer restrain himself and once again requested an audience with Shi Zhuhe. Upon entering, he offered a deep bow and went straight to the point. “I am not here to rush you, General. Although winter has arrived, fortunately, it has yet to snow. If we ride swiftly and manage to suppress the bandits before the year’s end, would that not be a significant achievement? If we wait until after spring to mobilize, would it not disrupt the farming season in Lujia City next year?”
Hearing this, Shi Zhuhe smiled slightly and replied, “In fact, I have already discussed this with my advisors. The bandits outside Lujia City are numerous, and their true strength remains unknown, making it unwise to act rashly. Why not wait until I proceed to the right camp and return with local troops from the eastern region to carry out the encirclement and suppression?”
Upon hearing Shi Zhuhe’s words, Gan Wei’s expression shifted slightly. He wanted to say more but fell silent under the other’s gaze.
He finally realized that Shi Zhuhe’s temperament differed from what they had imagined. It seemed Shi Zhuhe had no intention of requesting troops from Song Nanlou at all but planned to wait until reaching the right camp and then lead forces from the eastern region to carry out the suppression.
Gan Wei vaguely suspected that the relationship between Shi Zhuhe and the Song clan might not be as harmonious as it appeared to outsiders.
Whether Shi Zhuhe was merely stalling or unwilling to share credit with the front camp, simply refusing to deploy troops to Lujia City was enough to throw the rebels in the east – who had been lying in wait for an opportune moment – into a state of panic.
A day later, Gan Wei once again requested to meet with Shi Zhuhe. Upon entering the tent, he knelt on one knee, fully committing to the formal gesture, and said, “Regarding the matter of Lujia City, I have a strategy to present to the General.”
Shi Zhuhe responded, “Feel free to speak your mind.”
Gan Wei explained, “This plan concerns the Ge clan of Lujia City. Outsiders may not know the details, but as fellow residents of the city, we of the Gan clan are well aware. Though the Ge siblings claimed to have divided the family, they secretly maintained connections. Because the damp and cold climate of the mountains was unbearable for the wife and children of the bandit leader Ge, they were quietly sent back to the clan for care. If the General could take them as hostages, there is no doubt the bandit Ge would surrender upon hearing the news.”
In his effort to persuade Shi Zhuhe to deploy troops immediately, Gan Wei had put considerable thought into his proposal. In his view, Shi Zhuhe’s reluctance to mobilize forces was simply due to the belief that his current troops were insufficient to confront the bandits, coupled with his unwillingness to seek reinforcements from the front camp. Thus, Gan Wei offered a method to easily subdue the bandits. As long as Shi Zhuhe acted accordingly and both sides engaged, subsequent developments would no longer be under his sole control.
Although Shi Zhuhe was determined to play along with Gan Wei, upon hearing such “advice,” he nearly failed to maintain his composure and almost laughed aloud on the spot. Since Gan Wei’s deception was so carelessly crafted, Shi Zhuhe adjusted his own act accordingly. He looked at the other man, deliberately suppressing his smile, and solemnly stated, “Since you have laid bare your heart to me, I will not conceal the truth from you either. I plan to bypass Lujia City and take an alternate route to the right camp.” Before the other could interject, he continued, “As a newcomer to the right camp, the officers and soldiers are unlikely to respect me. I must accomplish something to establish my footing. That is why I have firmly decided to use the troops of the right camp to suppress these bandits.” He then clasped his hands and said earnestly, “Though I cannot spare the time for Lujia City at the moment, I will certainly remember the kindness you have shown me today by offering this strategy.”
Upon hearing this, Gan Wei faltered, unable to speak. He now fully understood Shi Zhuhe’s intentions and realized that no matter how eloquently he argued, he could not persuade the other. Shi Zhuhe’s reasoning was pragmatic: as a newly appointed commander of the right camp en route to his post, he needed a military victory to establish his authority. To achieve the most effective demonstration of his power, he must rely on the troops of the right camp.
However, the right camp was now entirely under the control of the eastern faction. Allowing Shi Zhuhe to proceed slowly after spring would, at best, allow them to swallow up the thousand or so soldiers here – even if news of the rebellion remained undisclosed – but from a cost-effectiveness perspective, it was utterly unwise.
Evening.
One of the attendants who had come with Gan Wei, using the excuse of needing to relieve himself, quietly slipped into a wooded area not far from the camp. There, he exchanged whispered words with someone waiting and did not return until half an hour later.
One side acted covertly, while the other deliberately turned a blind eye. With both forces working toward the same goal – through the combined efforts of Shi Zhuhe, his men, and Gan Wei – the plea for assistance was successfully sent out, and new arrangements were smoothly received. With further instructions in hand, Gan Wei no longer pressed Shi Zhuhe to deploy troops but instead engaged in casual conversation.
Gan Wei said, “I have lingered here too long and have truly disturbed you, General.”
Shi Zhuhe smiled. “You came personally to deliver the message, showing sincere devotion – it is truly admirable. Besides, without your visit, I would have no one to converse with openly on ordinary days.”
After exchanging a few more pleasantries, Gan Wei rose and expressed his farewells. “With the New Year approaching, I am concerned about affairs at home. I shall visit you again in the future, General.”
Shi Zhuhe also stood up. “In that case, I shall not detain you further. Let us hold a farewell banquet for you this evening.”
On the road, simplicity was key. What was called a banquet was nothing more than wine and meat. Once seated, Gan Wei was so tense that he could barely taste the wine. He forced himself to maintain a cheerful demeanor, joking and conversing with Shi Zhuhe. His heart pounded like a drum, and cold sweat trickled down his back in waves, yet he struggled to hold himself together, fearing his unease might be noticed.
Outside the tent, Ren Feihong took a quick glance. As someone skilled at capturing subtle details, she keenly noticed the tension etched on Gan Wei’s face. Deep down, she felt he need not endure such strain – after all, Shi Zhuhe was a masterful actor. Even if Gan Wei were to reveal any flaws, Shi Zhuhe would undoubtedly pretend not to notice…
In the middle of the banquet, a scout suddenly rushed into the tent, his face pale with urgency. “General, there is critical military intelligence…”
Seeing the man enter, a flicker of expectation flashed in Gan Wei’s eyes. Unexpectedly, before the scout could finish, Shi Zhuhe swept his sleeve dismissively and sharply rebuked him.
Shi Zhuhe sneered – before entering officialdom, he had always been low-key and reserved. Fortunately, his learning ability was strong, allowing him to convincingly adopt an expression completely at odds with his usual demeanor:
“Nonsense! What critical military affairs could there possibly be here at Shanyu Slope?”
Gan Wei cautiously spoke up, “Should the General not inquire more carefully?”
Shi Zhuhe shook his head, settled back into his seat, and gestured for his attendants to refill Gan Wei’s cup. “Those underlings are prone to exaggeration. Pay them no mind. Please, continue enjoying your drink.”
Hearing this, Gan Wei nearly froze in place. A thought suddenly flashed through his mind – when Shi Zhuhe refused to deploy troops to Lujia City, the reasons given may have seemed logical, but could it also be that Shi Zhuhe himself was fundamentally incompetent in leading troops, hence the constant excuses and evasions?
Recalling Shi Zhuhe’s previous refusals to assume his post at the right camp, Gan Wei vaguely felt that he might have uncovered the truth.
Gan Wei spoke with utmost sincerity, “The banquet can wait. General, please go and inquire. If military matters are delayed on my account, I would be deeply troubled.”
Shi Zhuhe shook his head again. “You worry too much.”
Gan Wei had no choice but to straighten his posture and kneel in earnest appeal. He never imagined that, even when everything seemed perfectly set except for the final move, he, as the inside agent, would have to persistently urge the other to attend to military affairs. As he pressed on, the young general even began to show signs of displeasure on his face.
Shi Zhuhe tossed down his chopsticks and said coldly, “Since you insist, I shall go and inquire.”
Looking at the other’s demeanor, Gan Wei nearly choked on his breath – how could the young emperor appoint such a pampered scion as a camp commander? The Great Zhou was truly on the brink of collapse!
It seemed that while Tai Province had achieved victory, the fundamental reasons were likely the exceptional quality of the imperial guards and the remarkable skill of commanders like Tao Jia. As for the Emperor herself, though perhaps capable, after the turmoil of Emperor Li’s reign, hardly any capable ministers or talented generals remained at court. Thus, even when Shi Zhuhe repeatedly declined his appointment, the assertive emperor did not immediately turn hostile but merely urged him to lead his troops and assume his post.
After rising from the banquet, Shi Zhuhe strode out briskly. He removed his outer robe, revealing the practical short attire he had already donned underneath.
Ren Feihong, who had long been waiting, remarked, “They indeed plan to take the initiative.”
Since they couldn’t lure Shi Zhuhe into deploying troops, the so-called “bandits” intended to strike first.
Ren Feihong continued, “Tonight, they will likely engage in a brief skirmish, then feign a rout to make us believe they are strong on the outside but weak within. If our troops fail to rein in their pursuit and chase them all the way into Lankang Commandery, that would be even better.”
Shi Zhuhe nodded. “I’ll have to trouble you later, Attendant Ren.”
Ren Feihong gave a slight bow, offering modest words of humility, yet confidently accepted the task – for this engagement, while the enemy intended to feign defeat, they too planned to do the same.
Had the system provided a live-streaming feature for distant events and this scene been recorded and posted in the strategy section, it would likely have been flooded with comments like “Shi Zhuhe, who cannot fight wars,” obscuring the entire screen.
