章節 459: 443. Once Again On Hulao Pass
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The Qilin Army continued to secure Wan and Puyang in a similar fashion, strengthening their hold on these key locations. Reports from the Oriole agents began to trickle in, providing glimpses of Cao Cao's preparations in Xuchang. The pieces of the puzzle were slowly coming together, but the full picture was still unclear, as for the first time the Oriole agents had a hard time infiltrating the ranks of Cao Cao's subordinates.
On the other hand, the scene on the outside of Xuchang was a bustling, chaotic hub of activity. Soldiers from every corner of Cao Cao's territory at the Central Plains had converged on the city, their camps sprawling in every direction.
Orders were shouted, supplies were loaded onto carts, and messengers dashed about, ensuring that every unit was prepared for the next phase of their journey. The tension in the air was palpable, as the gravity of the situation put a large pressure on all of them.
Inside Xuchang, the chaos was even more pronounced. Nobles, officials, and their families packed their belongings, hastily preparing for the sudden move to Luoyang.
The streets were filled with people rushing to and fro, organizing transport and ensuring that nothing of value was left behind. The sense of urgency was overwhelming, as they all knew that any delay could spell disaster.
Cao Cao, in the center of the maelstrom, coordinated the efforts with Xun Yu and Cheng Yu. The three of them worked tirelessly, issuing commands and ensuring that the evacuation proceeded as smoothly as possible under the circumstances.
As for Guo Jia and Xi Zhicia, the two of them keep focusing on the plan and fortifications needed at Hulao Pass. Jia Kui who had arrived at Xuchang was immediately tasked to help the two of them by Cao Cap, increasing the efficiency and vision of the plan.
Cao Ren and Yu Jin, among the few generals who had immediately accepted the retreat order without grumbling, efficiently directed their troops to patrol the surrounding of Xuchang.
Their focus and discipline provided a semblance of order amidst the chaos, and their men followed suit, looking for any sign of banditry or even Lie Fan's men in the surrounding area, ensuring the safety of Nobles, officials, and their families who were heading to Luoyang.
Meanwhile, inside Cao Cao's court, tension was rising as Xiahou Dun, Xiahou Yuan, Li Dian, Yue Jin, Zhang Ji, and Xu Huang gathered to voice their concerns. Xiahou Dun, as their leader, stood before Cao Cao, who was flanked by Xun Yu and Cheng Yu.
"My Lord," Xiahou Dun began, his tone respectful but firm, "we understand the gravity of the situation, but abandoning so much territory without a fight seems like a dangerous gamble. We are warriors, and our instinct is to defend our land."
Cao Cao listened intently, his face unreadable. He glanced at Xun Yu, who nodded subtly. "I understand your concerns, Yuanrang," Cao Cao replied. "But we must consider the broader picture. Lie Fan's forces are formidable, and engaging them head-on in our current state would be unwise. By consolidating our strength and regrouping at Hulao Pass, we can prepare a more effective counterattack."
The room fell silent as the generals absorbed Cao Cao's words. Xiahou Yuan spoke next, his voice measured. "But what of the morale of our men, My Lord? A retreat of this scale might be seen as a sign of weakness."
Xun Yu stepped forward, his voice calm and authoritative. "This is not a retreat out of fear but a strategic withdrawal. We are ensuring the safety of our people and preserving our strength for the battles to come. Our men will understand when they see the wisdom behind this move."
After several rounds of debate, Cao Cao's persuasive words, supported by Xun Yu and Cheng Yu's strategic insights, began to sway the generals. They recognized the necessity of the plan, albeit reluctantly.
Cao Cao assigned them to lead their respective armies to patrol the area, just like Cao Ren and Yu Jin, ensuring the continued safety and order of the evacuation.
Days passed, and the evacuation proceeded smoothly. Nobles, officials, and their families made their way to Luoyang under the watchful eyes of Cao Cao's vigilant patrols.
Cao Ren and Yu Jin, along with the other generals, maintained strict surveillance around Xuchang, ensuring no threats disrupted the exodus.
Finally, as the last of the important personnel and their families reached Luoyang, only Cao Cao, his family, and the Royal Family remained in Xuchang. The city, once bustling with activity and power, now stood quiet, its future uncertain.
Cao Cao, standing atop the city walls, gazed out over the empty streets. "The time has come," he said softly to Xun Yu and Cheng Yu, who stood beside him. "We must move to Luoyang and prepare for what lies ahead."
With a final look at Xuchang, Cao Cao turned and descended the stairs, to join his family and the Royal family in heading toward Luoyang, to begin preparing for the biggest battle that would decide his future.
Back in Chenliu, Lie Fan, Jia Xu, and Xun You received reports detailing Cao Cao's mass retreat toward Luoyang, leaving Xuchang devoid of his influence. As they absorbed the information, realization dawned on Jia Xu and Xun You simultaneously.
"Cao Cao is setting the stage for a decisive battle at Hulao Pass," Xun You said, his voice tinged with both admiration and concern, as Hulao Pass defensibility is the highest.
Lie Fan let out a loud, hearty laugh. "Haha! Hulao Pass is the place where I once fought alongside Cao Cao. How fitting that we should face each other there again."
Jia Xu, on the other hand, shared the concern Xun You had but with more optimism. "He's banking on the defensibility of Hulao Pass, using it as a chokepoint to level the playing field. This is a bold move, but it could work in our favor if we approach it correctly."
"Then we must not waste any time," Lie Fan declared. "Send word to all our armies to regroup at Xuchang. From there, we march to Hulao Pass together. We will face Cao Cao head-on and bring this war to a decisive end."
Jia Xu immediately began drafting the orders, ensuring that each army knew the importance of a swift and coordinated move.
Xun You, meanwhile, mapped out the logistics for the regrouping and subsequent march, ensuring supplies and reinforcements were in place, where he coordinated with Zhang Liao and Gao Shun in doing this.
As the orders were dispatched, Lie Fan's armies across Chenliu, Puyang, and Wan immediately mobilized. Each of its Head generals and strategist readied their troops, and preparations for the march began in earnest.
After almost a week of march, Lie Fan and the Qilin Army arrived at Xuchang. Lie Fan ordered Zhang Liao, Gao Shun, Jia Xu, and Xun You to consolidate his control and influence over Xuchang while waiting for the others to arrive.
After a week all of the armies arrived at Xuchang and were assembled, Lie Fan addressed his generals, advisors, and the entire army outside of Xuchang. "We will begin our march to Hulao Pass to fight Cao Cao in this decisive battle, where victory and defeat could change many courses of life! So fight with all your might to have Victory in our grasp!"
Lie Fan's voice was loud and filled with passion, coupled with his high charisma soon everyone was captivated and let out a loud cheer, seeing this Lie Fan nodded his head in satisfaction and ordered his entire army to move out.
The march to Hulao Pass began, with Lie Fan leading from the front. His thoughts drifted back to his youth, to the camaraderie and battles shared with Cao Cao. Now, they stood as rivals, each vying for control of the land they both sought to rule.
As Lie Fan's forces approached Hulao Pass, the sight of the imposing natural fortress brought a mix of memories and determination. But now, there are additional fortifications and defensive buildings made.
When Lie Fan's forces reached Hulao Pass, he ordered his entire army to halt and begin assembling their encampments, adding fortifications to prepare for the impending battle. The soldiers worked diligently, their movements precise and coordinated under the watchful eyes of their commanders.
On top of Hulao Pass, Cao Cao stood alongside his trusted advisors: Guo Jia, Xi Zhicai, Xun Yu, Jia Kui, and Cheng Yu. They observed Lie Fan's army below, a sea of soldiers and banners, methodically setting up their positions.
Cao Cao turned to Guo Jia, his expression a mix of determination and curiosity. "How many men does Lie Fan have, Fengxiao?"
Guo Jia, after a moment of calculation, replied, "Lie Fan has approximately 400,000 to 450,000 men, more or less, My Lord. Our own forces number around 400,000, It's an even match, my lord."
Cao Cao nodded, his gaze fixed on the bustling activity below. "An even match indeed. This will be a battle of attrition where strategy will play a keen role. We must be prepared for anything."
Xi Zhicai agreed with Cao Cao's words, and as he was looking over Lie Fan's army, added, "We have the advantage of the high ground and our fortifications, My Lord. But I agree that our strategy will play a big role and I suggest caution in the first several clashes."
Xun Yu on the other hand worried about the supply line they had, which extended from Liang Province to Luoyang, "My Lord, I implore to you that we should keep an eye on our supply lines, with most of our army concentrated here and on Liang Province, the area between Liang Province and Luoyang will be a vulnerable spot for our supply like against bandits."
Cao Cao considered their words, his mind racing with possibilities. "Very well. Keep fortifying our defenses and send an order to Hansui, inform him to keep our supply lines secure until Hanggu Pass. We will need all the strength and supplies we possess to face Lie Fan."
Cao Cao's orders rippled through his camp with swift efficiency. Soldiers worked tirelessly, reinforcing fortifications and ensuring every defensive structure was secure. Messengers rode out to Han Sui, carrying the critical command to protect the supply lines leading to Hanggu Pass.
The importance of maintaining these lines could not be overstated as they were the lifeline that would sustain Cao Cao's forces in the grueling days ahead.
Similarly, in Lie Fan's camp, preparations were in full swing. Engineers and laborers constructed siege equipment, while scouts and Oriole agents gathered intelligence on the enemy's movements and fortifications.
As night fell, the bustling camps of both armies gradually quieted. The men, weary but resolute, gathered around their fires, consuming the extra rations provided to boost their morale. The action of giving additional rations to their men makes it as if both Cao Cao and Lie Fan shared the same mind, knowing that their supply lines were extended keeping morale up was number one.
____________________________
Name: Lie Fan
Title: Three Heroes Who Defeat Lu Bu
Age: 31 (198 AD)
Level: 16
Next Level: 462,000
Renown: 825
Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)
SP: 1,121,700
ATTRIBUTE POINTS
STR: 936 (+20)
VIT: 598 (+20)
AGI: 583 (+10)
INT: 587
CHR: 96
WIS: 509
WILL: 397
ATR Points: 0
創作者的想法 
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章節 460: 444. The Battle Of Hulao Pass
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___________________________
As night fell, the bustling camps of both armies gradually quieted. The men, weary but resolute, gathered around their fires, consuming the extra rations provided to boost their morale. The action of giving additional rations to their men makes it as if both Cao Cao and Lie Fan shared the same mind, knowing that their supply lines were extended keeping morale up was number one.
On the other hand, on the inside of Luoyang, Wang Yi and her followers had managed to slip inside several days before Cao Cao evacuated his entire subordinates, supporters, and their families to the city.
Wang Yi had withheld her departure due to Cao Cao's evacuation plan, lying low to avoid detection. Now, after several days of careful concealment, she decided it was time for her and her followers to leave.
She knew better than to attempt an escape through Hulao Pass, foreseeing the chaos that would ensue there. Instead, she planned to head north toward Henei, from where she would continue her journey to Xiapi.
Under the cover of darkness, Wang Yi gathered her followers. "It's time," she whispered. "We leave tonight, heading north. Avoid the main roads and stay alert. We must reach Henei before dawn."
Her followers nodded in understanding, their faces set with determination. They moved silently through the narrow alleys of Luoyang, avoiding patrols and keeping to the shadows. The city's atmosphere was tense, with Cao Cao's armies preparing for the imminent threat posed by Lie Fan's armies.
Fortunately, Wang Yi and her followers were helped by the cover of the darkness of the night, so they could slip past easily despite the doubled or even tripled the size of patrols and guards that patrolled in the night.
As they made their way to the northern outskirts of Luoyang, Wang Yi couldn't help but think of the risks ahead. The journey to Xiapi would be perilous, but it was a necessary move to continue her revenge and meet the benefactor who helped her.
Hours later, as dawn began to break, Wang Yi and her followers reached the outskirts of Henei. They paused to catch their breath and assess their surroundings. The road ahead was long, but they were determined to reach Xiapi.
"We rest here for a moment," Wang Yi said quietly. "Once the sun is fully up, we move again. We must stay vigilant and keep to our path."
Her followers nodded, grateful for the brief respite. They knew the journey ahead would test their resolve, but with Wang Yi's leadership and their shared determination, they felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
As dawn broke over the towering fortifications of Hulao Pass, the air buzzed with anticipation. The soldiers of both Lie Fan and Cao Cao's armies had risen with the first light, their minds and bodies prepared for the imminent clash.
Lie Fan, adorned in his armor and holding his halberd, stood at the forefront of his formation on his horse pangu. His presence was a beacon of strength and confidence, inspiring his troops as they completed their morning exercises. Around him, the sound of steel clashing in practice and the rhythmic stomping of boots echoed through the camp.
In the command tent, Jia Xu, Xun You, Liu Ba, Chen Deng, and Bu Zhi poured over maps and discussed tactics. "We should test their defenses first," Jia Xu suggested. "A probing attack to gauge their strength and weaknesses."
Xun You nodded. "Agreed. We must remain adaptable. Their fortifications are strong, but no defense is impenetrable."
Chen Deng who was looking over the map, raised his head up. "I recommend we kept an eye on the surrounding area, even though the terrain was impossible to pass through, it's not too bad for us to be on the cautious side."
Bu Zhi and Liu Ba on the other hand felt that whatever should have been said, had been said by Jia Xu, Xun You, and Chen Deng so they gave their support and maybe added some words here and there.
Lie Fan, returning from his inspection of the troops, entered the tent. "What's the plan for the first engagement?" he asked, his eyes sharp and focused as he looked toward his advisors.
"We propose a probing attack, My Lord." Jia Xu replied. "Send a small force to test their defenses and draw out their response. It will give us valuable information on their positioning and strategy."
Lie Fan nodded. "Very well. Send out the order. I want our men ready to move at a moment's notice."
Meanwhile, within Cao Cao's camp, a similar scene unfolded. Generals and advisors gathered around a large table, discussing their defensive strategies. Cao Cao, standing at the head of the table, listened intently to the suggestions of his advisors.
"We must fortify our positions and prepare for a counterattack, My Lord." Guo Jia advised. "Lie Fan is likely to test our defenses. We need to be ready to repel his initial assault and then find an opportunity to counter his attack to probe their fortifications."
Xi Zhicai added, "Our men are well-trained and motivated. We must leverage our knowledge of the terrain and use it to our advantage. Every position, every fortification must be utilized to its fullest."
Cao Cao nodded, his face set in determination. "Ensure our defenses are tight. We cannot afford any missteps. This battle will be won by those who can adapt and outthink their opponent."
As the sun continued to rise, both armies finalized their preparations. Lie Fan's forces assembled into their formations, their faces resolute and their weapons gleaming in the morning light. Across the battlefield, Cao Cao's men fortified their positions, ready to defend their ground with every ounce of their strength.
The first skirmish was about to commence, and the outcome would set the tone for the larger battle to come. Both leaders knew that this initial engagement would be crucial, not only for the immediate tactical advantage but also for the morale and momentum it would provide.
The sun climbed higher into the sky, casting a golden hue over the battlefield. Lie Fan, mounted on his horse and flanked by his loyal bodyguards, rode forward. The sight of their commander approaching the enemy lines caused a ripple of anticipation among his troops.
Cao Cao, noticing the movement, signaled for his men to hold their positions. He, too, rode out to meet Lie Fan, accompanied by Xu Chu, Xiahou Dun, and Xiahou Yuan. The two leaders faced each other, a palpable tension hanging in the air as their armies watched in silence.
" Haha Brother Lie Fan," Cao Cao called out, his voice steady and easygoing. "You think you can take Hulao Pass with your ragtag army? You underestimate the strength of my men and the loyalty they have for me."
Lie Fan smiled, unperturbed. "Brother Mengde, your words are as empty as your promises. I've seen the fear in your men's eyes. They know the end is near, and they will falter as they have before. My army fights for justice and the people, a cause far greater than your ambition."
Cao Cao's expression remained unchanged. "Justice? Your cause is no different from mine, Brother Lie Fan. We both seek to bring order to this land. But while you play the hero, I am the one who will unify this nation under my banner."
"Words won't win this battle, Brother Mengde," Lie Fan replied, his voice firm. "Only strength and resolve will decide the victor today. Let's see if you have enough of either."
With that, Lie Fan turned his horse and rode back to his formation, a confident smile on his face. Cao Cao watched him go, his own resolve hardening. Both leaders had tried to rattle the other, but neither had succeeded.
Back among his troops, Lie Fan raised his halberd high, his voice ringing out across the ranks. "Qilin Army, today we fight for our future! Forward, and let no enemy stand in our way!"
The soldiers responded with a thunderous cheer, their morale bolstered by their commander's confidence. With a decisive command, Lie Fan ordered the attack.
The Qilin Army surged forward, a disciplined and powerful force. Banners fluttered in the wind as the soldiers advanced, their weapons gleaming in the sunlight. The sound of their march was a steady, relentless drumbeat.
On the other side, Cao Cao's men braced themselves, their positions fortified and their resolve steeled. They knew this battle would be the first of many, and they were prepared to defend their ground with everything they had.
As the Qilin Army surged forward, Lie Fan's siege engines were brought into position. The Hwacha, trebuchets, and Climbing Tigers were formidable and unlike anything Cao Cao's forces had seen before. The Hwacha, with its multiple rocket launchers, prepared to unleash a devastating barrage, while the trebuchets were loaded with heavy projectiles, ready to hurl destruction upon the enemy fortifications. The Climbing Tigers, specialized siege ladders, were poised to scale the defenses.
On the front lines, Zhang Liao, Huang Zhong, Taishi Ci, and Dian Wei led the charge with unmatched ferocity. Their presence invigorated the soldiers around them, each one determined to break through Cao Cao's defenses.
Cao Cao, from his vantage point, observed the strange siege engines with growing concern. He immediately ordered his generals to focus on neutralizing these threats. "Xu Chu, Xiahou Dun, Xiahou Yuan, Xu Huang!" he commanded. "Those siege engines must be destroyed. Target them and ensure they do not breach our defenses!"
The four of them heard Cao Cao's orders and immediately tried their best to direct their men to attack the siege engines.
Despite the concentrated efforts of Cao Cao's forces, however, Lie Fan's Army pressed on. The Hwacha fired its deadly rockets, a spectacle of fiery streaks that arced through the air before crashing into the enemy ranks, causing chaos and destruction.
The trebuchets launched their heavy projectiles, smashing into fortifications and sending shockwaves through Cao Cao's defenses.
The battle raged on with increasing intensity. Zhang Liao and Taishi Ci broke through the first line of defense, their swords flashing and cutting down any who stood in their way. Huang Zhong's arrows found their marks with unerring accuracy, while Dian Wei's sheer force and presence were enough to make even the bravest of Cao Cao's soldiers hesitate.
Cao Cao's generals, though formidable, found themselves hard-pressed to counter the combined might of Lie Fan's advanced siege tactics and the relentless assault of his elite warriors.
As the morning wore on, the battlefield became a maelstrom of clashing steel, roaring flames, and the cries of battle-hardened soldiers. Lie Fan, overseeing the battle from the center of his formation, remained focused and determined. He knew that this skirmish was only the beginning, and every move he made would be crucial in the long and arduous campaign to come.
____________________________
Name: Lie Fan
Title: Three Heroes Who Defeat Lu Bu
Age: 31 (198 AD)
Level: 16
Next Level: 462,000
Renown: 825
Cultivation: Yin Yang Separation (level 9)
SP: 1,121,700
ATTRIBUTE POINTS
STR: 936 (+20)
VIT: 598 (+20)
AGI: 583 (+10)
INT: 587
CHR: 96
WIS: 509
WILL: 397
ATR Points: 0
創作者的想法
Tang12
Tang12
Creation is hard, cheer me up! VOTE for me!
I tagged this book, come and support me with a thumbs up!
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