Kapitel 561: 539. Battle At The Great Wall
If you want to read 20 Chapters ahead and more, be sure to check out my Patreon!!!
Go to https://www.patreon.com/Tang12
___________________________
The others nodded in agreement, each merchant calculating the potential riches such an endeavor could bring. They would need to be discreet, of course. Fireworks appeared to be a guarded technology, something that was likely not available to just anyone in China. But they had their ways. With the right contacts and enough gold, anything could be bought. Their minds were already racing with ideas of how to acquire this mysterious and powerful product.
"I suggest we begin inquiries tomorrow," the youngest merchant suggested. "Find out who controls the production of these fireworks in Xiapi. Perhaps we could strike a deal or learn the secrets behind how they're made."
The elder merchant raised a hand. "Patience. We must not draw too much attention. Xiapi may seem open, but we are guests here and our nation was a subsidiary to the Han, so we need to approach this delicately, find someone who can give us information without raising suspicion. After all, we are here as merchants, not spies."
The group agreed, lowering their voices even further as they laid out their plan for the following days. They would discreetly gather information, using their trade contacts and local guides to learn more about the fireworks and the people behind their production.
If successful, they could return to Goguryeo not just with goods to sell, but with a new technology that could revolutionize both their economy and military, making them drown in riches they would never expect before.
Unbeknownst to them however, their meeting and discussion was being eavesdropped by Oriole Agents, who had recorded everything and recorded their names to be presented to the Oriole Grandmaster Jia Xu, as part of their report.
Meanwhile, in the Lie Clan's residence, the family continued to enjoy the final moments of the night's festivities. The courtyard was bathed in the soft glow of lanterns, the crackling of fireworks still echoing in the distance.
Lie Fan, sitting with his wives and children, leaned back in his chair, feeling a deep sense of contentment. He watched as his children, still brimming with energy, chased each other around the courtyard, their laughter mixing with the distant sounds of celebration.
His thoughts drifted back to the state of his capital and the recent visitors, including the merchants from Goguryeo, who was allowed to pass freely into his domain through Huai'An, where they sail from Goguryeo to enter his domain in the mainland.
He had been aware of their presence since their arrival through the Oriole agents reports, and though they were here under the guise of trade, he knew well enough that they were likely scouting for more than just commodities, as they will also scout for information and secrets they could found.
Goguryeo's nobles and officials one way or another had connections with these merchants, and after the spectacle shown by fireworks that lighten up the skies, their interest in fireworks would not be surprising, and without any reports from the Oriole agents he knew that tomorrow they would begin to search for any information about fireworks and try to procure them.
Lie Fan smirked, and thought inwardly that it was only a matter of time before others started to take notice of his fireworks. Fireworks are not just a form of entertainment, after all. They have potential beyond mere celebration, and could be used as weapon like the fire lance he will use soon. So he wouldn't be surprised if they were already thinking of ways to use them for military purposes.
But it's better to be cautious, as he never knew what will they do to procure the knowledge of fireworks and the times it self. His eyes narrowing as he considered the possibilities of it happening. He make make a note in his mind to make sure taking any necessary precautions. If they attempt anything, his men will be ready.
Back in the private room at the Serenity Inn, the merchants from Goguryeo finished their discussion, each man deep in thought. They had a long road ahead, filled with negotiations and delicate maneuvers, but if they could succeed in acquiring the secrets of fireworks, they would return home not just as traders, but as heroes who increase the chance of Giguryeo liberating themselves from the Han.
One of the merchants, the youngest, looked out the window toward the fading lights of the fireworks display. "This city," he murmured, "is far more than it seems. There is power here, both in the people and in the technology. We must tread carefully."
The elder merchant nodded in agreement. "Indeed. Xiapi is no ordinary city, and Lie Fan is no ordinary warlord from the information I have gathered. But we have an opportunity here. Let's make the most of it."
The group fell into silence as they finished their meal, their minds already focused on the coming days. Outside, the streets of Xiapi were still alive with the remnants of the festival, but for the merchants of Goguryeo, the real work was just beginning.
While Xiapi basked in the glow of fireworks and festivity, far to the northwest, near the Great Wall, a different kind of energy simmered. The tension between Cao Cao's forces, led by Ma Teng, Han Sui, Xiahou Dun, Yu Jin, and Li Dian, and the Northern Xiongnu Tribe Coalition had finally come to a boiling point.
The Northern Xiongnu Tribe Coalition, led by Tugeh Khagan, had been gathering strength for some time, rallying the nomadic tribes of the steppes under a banner of unity while waiting for the right moment to strik.
Now, Tugeh Khagan believed the moment had come to strike against the Han forces that guarded the Great Wall, aiming to catch them off guard and deliver a crushing blow and take over the illustrious Great Wall under his rule or at least part of it.
Under the cover of night, Tugeh Khagan mobilized his vast coalition of tribes. With over 200,000 Xiongnu tribesmen from a variety of clans and backgrounds, they moved like a tidal wave across the steppes, their horses galloping in rhythm as they approached the formidable Great Wall.
The tribesmen, many of whom were seasoned warriors, felt a surge of confidence as they rode, their spirits high. Tugeh Khagan had convinced them that they would take the Han by surprise, believing that an attack at dawn would shatter the morale of the Han soldiers, who were unprepared for such a massive assault.
The Xiongnu warriors pictured themselves breaching the Great Wall, pillaging the lands beyond, and weakening the Han's hold on the region. The vast expanse of their homeland stretched behind them, giving them the feeling that the steppes themselves were pushing them forward. They were a force of nature, unstoppable, or so they thought.
However, their confidence was misplaced.
Unknown to Tugeh Khagan and the people who were loyal to him, several of their own supposed allies had already betrayed them.
The leaders of the Onggirat and Qangli tribes—Batu and Zolgar, respectively—who had secretly aligned themselves with the Han forces along with other chieftains who doubted the success of Tugeh Khagan's campaign and pledge their support to Ca Cao's forces, had already informed the soldiers at the Greeat Wall about the oncoming attack.
Days earlier, Batu and Zolgar had dispatched their fastest messenger eagles to relay critical intelligence to Guo Jia and Xi Zhicai spies, who had leave the encampment after meeting the two of them and the other chieftains.
The message, laden with intricate details of the Xiongnu's battle plan, their numbers, and the timing of their approach, had been sent with the hope of gaining early favor with the Han leadership.
By informing Cao Cao's forces of the impending attack, these tribal leaders aimed to ensure truly the survival of their tribes but also a potential increase of rewards from the powerful Han forces.
The eagles flew swiftly across the steppes, carrying the fate of the Xiongnu coalition in their talons. Guo Jia and Xi Zhicai spies, upon receiving the message, immediately recognized the gravity of the situation.
They immediately sned the message to Guo Jia and Xi Zhicai who was located at Tianshui, and when Guo Jia received the message, his sharp mind quickly processed the information, and he and Xi Zhicai worked tirelessly to devise a strategy that would turn the Xiongnu's attempted surprise into a deadly trap for their own forces.
While the Xiongnu believed they were approaching the Great Wall under the cover of darkness, ready to strike at dawn, Cao Cao's forces had already fortified their positions. Xiahou Dun's soldiers had set up concealed traps along the most likely paths of attack, while Yu Jin's infantry and Li Dian's cavalry were prepared to mobilize at a moment's notice.
Ma Teng and Han Sui, who both had numerous experience in frontier warfare facing the Xiongnh, ensured that the morale of their troops remained high, reminding them of the honor of defending their homeland against the invaders.
As dawn began to break, the Xiongnu army drew closer to the Great Wall. Tugeh Khagan rode at the front of his forces, his mind filled with visions of victory. He could almost see the fear in the eyes of the Han soldiers, the disarray that would follow his surprise assault. His men were ready for bloodshed, eager to claim the riches that lay beyond the wall.
But instead of unprepared soldiers, the Xiongnu found a well-fortified defense. The moment they were within striking distance, the Han forces unleashed their full might. Archers, hidden in the shadows of the wall, rained arrows down upon the advancing Xiongnu, cutting down dozens of riders before they could even reach the base of the wall.
The traps laid by Xiahou Dun's forces—spiked pits and hidden caltrops—began to take their toll, causing chaos among the Xiongnu cavalry as horses stumbled and men were thrown from their saddles as they approached the Great Wall.
The Xiongnu advance faltered, confusion spreading through their ranks. Tugeh Khagan, realizing that his surprise attack had failed, roared in fury, but it was too late his coalition had already entered the trap which foiled his surprise attack plan.
Amid the chaos, Batu, Zolgar, and the traitorous chieftains, made their move. Under the guise of leading their tribes into battle, they quietly withdrew their forces from the fray, ensuring that their men did not suffer the same fate as the rest of the Xiongnu tribes who had fallen into the trap, retaining the number of warriors under them.
Unaware of this, Tugeh Khagan, seeing his meticulously planned attack fall apart before his eyes, rally his forces, calling for the chieftains to retreat several kilometers away from the Great Wall, far from the range of the Han Archers.
Seeing the Northern Xiongnu Tribes Coalition retreat after their failed surprise attack, Yu Jin and Li Dian, who commanded the infantry and cavalry respectively, halted their counter offensive manuver just outside of the Xiongnu's attack range.
They watched the Xiongnu regroup, retreating to the safety of the open plains, where they could avoid further engagement. It was clear the Xiongnu were stunned by the Han's preparedness, and Yu Jin, along with Li Dian, knew that this initial success was just the beginning. They needed to press their advantage but with strategic caution.
____________________________
Name: Lie Fan
Title: Overlord Of The Central Plains
Age: 32 (199 AD)
Level: 16
Next Level: 462,000
Renown: 1325
Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)
SP: 1,121,700
ATTRIBUTE POINTS
STR: 951 (+20)
VIT: 613 (+20)
AGI: 598 (+10)
INT: 617
CHR: 96
WIS: 519
WILL: 407
ATR Points: 0
AUTORENGEDANKEN 
Tang12
Tang12 Creation is hard, cheer me up! VOTE for me!
I tagged this book, come and support me with a thumbs up!
Like it ? Add to library!
Have some idea about my story? Comment it and let me know.
Kapitel 562: 540. Start Of The Mountain's Ambush
If you want to read 20 Chapters ahead and more, be sure to check out my Patreon!!!
Go to https://www.patreon.com/Tang12
___________________________
They watched the Xiongnu regroup, retreating to the safety of the open plains, where they could avoid further engagement. It was clear the Xiongnu were stunned by the Han's preparedness, and Yu Jin, along with Li Dian, knew that this initial success was just the beginning. They needed to press their advantage but with strategic caution.
Back at the main tower of the Great Wall, Cao Cao's general gathered in an meeting to discuss their next course of action. Xiahou Dun, still brimming with the adrenaline of the tense battle, started the discussion.
He praised Guo Jia and Xi Zhicai's for sending the information from the message of the Onggirat, Qangli, and the other Xiongnu tribes that supported them, emphasizing that it had saved them from countless casualties.
Had the Xiongnu's surprise attack succeeded, they would suffer numerous casualties as they would be taken by surprise and unprepared to counter such an overwhelming assault, foiling the plan that they had prepared to neutralize the Xiongnu's mobility due to insufficient manpower.
"It's clear that this Tugeh Khagan won't abandon his campaign so easily," Xiahou Dun began, his tone both analytical and resolute. "The man has united countless tribes for this purpose. A mere failure and retreat won't deter him."
Ma Teng nodded in agreement, leaning over a map of the surrounding terrain. "We can't give them room to recover," he said, his finger tracing the mountainous paths to the west of the wall.
"Tugeh Khagan will regroup and likely try to exploit the weaknesses he perceives. We will need to be one step ahead, implement our prepared strategy and lead them into terrain that disadvantages their large numbers and mobility."
Han Sui spoke up, his voice steady and calm. "I agree. Our terrain knowledge gives us the upper hand. If we can lead the Xiongnu into the mountains, we can strip them of their mobility and strength. The mountains are treacherous, and their vast cavalry will be less effective in those narrow passes."
The group formulated a much more detailed plan, building upon Guo Jia and Xi Zhicai's addition onto the strategy they have prepared before.
Xiahou Dun, along with Yu Jin and Li Dian, would hold the Great Wall as the core defensive force as they had agreed upon before. Their goal was to maintain the appearance of a defensive stance, luring the Xiongnu into a false sense of security.
Meanwhile, Ma Teng and Han Sui would lead a feigned retreat into the mountainous areas, taking with them only the most agile and experienced troops, primarily cavalry and lightly armored units that could navigate the rugged terrain quickly.
This retreat was not only designed to draw the Xiongnu out of their open terrain advantage but also to create a division among their forces. By separating the tribes from one another in the mountains, they could weaken the cohesion of the Xiongnu coalition, forcing them to fight on their terms.
After finalizing their plan, each of Cao Cao generals returned to their respective units to oversee the preparation. They checked supplies, assessed morale, and made sure that their men were ready to execute the strategy by dawn.
Tension buzzed through the ranks of their soldiers, tempered by the confidence that they now had the upper hand over the Xiongnu. The soldiers knew that this next phase could decide the fate of the Northern Xiongnu Tribes and their push into their lord's domain.
Meanwhile, in the Northern Xiongnu Tribes encampment, the atmosphere was bleak. In Tugeh Khagan's main tent, the chieftains of the coalition assembled to report their losses.
Tugeh Khagan sat at the head of the gathering, his face grim as he listened to each chieftain recount their casualties. To his left and right, his advisors listened carefully, assessing the state of their forces.
Among the chieftains present were Batu and Zolgar, along with several other chieftains who had secretly betrayed the coalition to gain favor with Cao Cao's forces. They remained silent and respectful not as brash as before where they ignored or defy Tigeh Khagan's emissary order, disguising their true loyalties as they reported the supposed losses of their own men.
One by one, the chieftains described the brutal results of the failed surprise attack. The smaller tribes, which had limited resources and fewer men, had lost between a quarter to half of their forces. The larger tribes, despite their more substantial ranks, reported losing nearly a quarter of their warriors.
Those who had already aligned with the Han forces lied about their numbers, claiming losses even though their troops had largely stayed back. They knew that any suspicion now could cost them not only their newfound allies but also their lives.
Finally, Tugeh Khagan's advisor leaned over and whispered a grim summary of their losses, the coalition had lost approximately 40,000 warriors, reducing their once-mighty force of 200,000 to around 160,000 which was a significant and disheartening blow, especially considering this was only the first engagement.
Despite his stoic appearance, Tugeh Khagan felt the weight of this loss deeply. His campaign had started with such promise, uniting scattered tribes into a formidable force.
Now, they faced the painful reality that the Han were far more prepared and resilient than he had anticipated, something that caused him to be suspicious because the Han shouldn't have been ready for them but he set that aside.
Rising from his seat, Tugeh Khagan addressed the room. "Warriors of the steppes, this is but a minor setback. We misjudged the Han defenses, but we are not defeated. Our spirits and momentum still far surpass theirs. We will regroup, adapt, and strike again." His words were forceful, though his tone betrayed a hint of uncertainty that did not escape the notice of those gathered.
Batu, one of the traitorous chieftains, quickly spoke up, his voice steady and reassuring. "Khagan, your vision has united us in strength. We underestimated the Great Wall's defenses, but with a revised strategy, we will break through their lines. We must be patient and gather our strength before making our next move."
Zolgar added, "Yes, Khagan. This setback should teach us caution, but it does not mean the end. If we press the Han relentlessly, we will find their weakness. We must simply be wise in how we proceed."
Tugeh Khagan while surprised by the sudden changes of Batu and Zolgar, listened to their words and nodding slowly. He knew he needed to maintain morale and unity within the coalition, or risk losing his coalition altogether.
Even though his advisors warned of the risks of another direct assault, he knew that retreating without a victory would be disastrous. Still, a direct assault on the Great Wall seemed futile with his current numbers.
After hours of deliberation, Tugeh Khagan and his advisors agreed on a revised strategy. They would attempt a series of smaller skirmishes and ambushes in the surrounding countryside, hoping to wear down the Han forces before attempting another large-scale attack. Tugeh Khagan hoped that these attacks would weaken the Great Wall's defenses, creating an opportunity to strike more effectively.
As the coalition leaders left the tent, Tugeh Khagan summoned Batu and Zolgar, along with a few other chieftains that had the largest tribe. He believed these men would be critical in executing the new plan.
Even though Batu and Zolgar had defied his emissary numerous times, had showed some changes and after he called them, had slowly changed and become more accepting of his order and their show of support just now cause him to cast them on a different light.
Unbeknownst to him, this is all just an impromptu plan that Batu and Zolgar come up with, so that they can inflitrate Tugeh Khagan's inner circle by gaining his trust, as they were chieftains of big tribes which was essential to the coaltion to gain intel for Cao Cai's forces.
"Batu," Tugeh Khagan said, meeting his gaze. "I will rely on you and Zolgar to lead our men into the mountainous terrain, drawing out any Han scouts and weakening their lines. Your knowledge of these lands is vital. Make them pay for every inch."
Batu inclined his head respectfully. "We will bring you victory, Khagan. The Han will know the wrath of the steppe." His words were confident, but inwardly, he weighed his next move carefully, aware that any misstep could expose his true loyalties.
Zolgar to the side of Batu, also promised to bring victory for the coalition and repeated Batu words of bring the wrath of the steppe to the Han, supporting Batu's facade so they will be even more trusted by Tugeh Khagan.
Preparation at the Great Wall by Cao Cao's generals and the meeting at the Northern Xiongnu Tribe encampment continued until late night, before each side finished their matters and goes to take a rest.
The next day, at the Great Wall, Cao Cao's generals do some final checking as the light of dawn shield across the Great Wall. Ma Teng and Han Sui's cavalry units had gathered near the western pass gate, ready to begin their feigned retreat into the mountains.
They checked their weapons, ensuring every soldier was equipped for the harsh terrain. Spirits were high, but the generals reminded their men that they would need to remain disciplined and agile to navigate the mountains and lure the Xiongnu into their trap.
As the sun broke over the horizon, the Han forces executed the first phase of their plan. Ma Teng's and Han Sui's men started their gradual retreat, leaving behind deliberate tracks that would be easy for the Xiongnu scouts to follow. They moved quickly but methodically, creating the illusion of a hasty retreat. Not long after, the Xiongnu scouts discovered the trail and reported back to Tugeh Khagan.
Tugeh Khagan, seeing this as an opportunity to regain momentum, ordered his forces to pursue. "The Han are retreating," he declared to his chieftains. "They know they cannot withstand our might. Batu and Zolgar, show them the folly of underestimating us!"
The Xiongnu forces under Batu and Zolgar leadership poured into the western pass, following the trail laid out by Ma Teng's and Han Sui's units. However, as they ventured deeper into the mountains, the wide-open plains gave way to narrow paths and steep cliffs.
The Xiongnu, accustomed to open fields where they could use their numbers and cavalry to full effect, found themselves constrained, unable to maneuver as freely as before. At a predetermined location, Ma Teng and Han Sui split their forces, with some units hiding among the rocks and others creating diversions along different paths.
The Xiongnu, believing they were on the brink of victory, continued forward, unaware that they were stepping into a carefully laid ambush. As the Xiongnu approached the center of the mountain pass, Ma Teng signaled for his archers to unleash a hail of arrows from the cliffs above. Chaos erupted as the Xiongnu, caught off guard, attempted to form defensive lines. Tugeh Khagan roared commands, rallying his men, but the narrow paths and steep slopes left them vulnerable.
____________________________
Name: Lie Fan
Title: Overlord Of The Central Plains
Age: 32 (199 AD)
Level: 16
Next Level: 462,000
Renown: 1325
Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)
SP: 1,121,700
ATTRIBUTE POINTS
STR: 951 (+20)
VIT: 613 (+20)
AGI: 598 (+10)
INT: 617
CHR: 96
WIS: 519
WILL: 407
ATR Points: 0
AUTORENGEDANKEN
Tang12
Tang12
Creation is hard, cheer me up! VOTE for me!
I tagged this book, come and support me with a thumbs up!
Like it ? Add to library!
Have some idea about my story? Comment it and let me know.
Wöchentlicher Energiestatus
200+ Power-
Rangliste 
254 Power-
Stein 
Kommentar absatzweise anzeigen