Chapter 1407 - 336: Infuriated

Chapter 1407: Chapter 336: Infuriated

While in the military council, I was contemplating political positions and got a bit distracted, surprisingly leading to such an effect.

As soon as I spoke,

Prince Jingnan followed suit,

and Lord Zheng was somewhat bewildered, wondering how on earth he, the mighty general of the Snow Sea Pass, inexplicably became the temporary chief commander leading Li Fusheng’s North Border troops in battle?

The most crucial issue is,

Lord Zheng, confident and didn’t bring Liang Cheng along, believed that with his current level, he could handle the examination from Prince Jingnan, his mentor, along with some strategic matters beyond ordinary warfare.

Indeed, the facts proved Lord Zheng’s growth and progress over the years.

Whether it was understanding Prince Jingnan’s grand plans while having hotpot, or handling memoranda and responding to Prince Jingnan’s questions on position and policy, Lord Zheng smoothly managed them all.

But,

but,

being suddenly pulled out to command a siege battle, he truly couldn’t manage that.

The method, of course, is simple, merely first flattening the Chu army’s outer defenses, then advancing shield bearers, arrow towers, crossbowmen, and catapults, followed by ordering a climb and charge to the walls.

Yes, it’s simple, just watching a few times and you’ll get it.

But mastering the timing and having a keen observation of the battle situation is something beyond the ability of ordinary military leaders.

Lord Zheng knew his level; commanding a route of troops for field battles, maneuvering, harassing, charging formations, and dividing them, he could handle;

but siege warfare is entirely different from field battles.

During the attack on East Mountain Fort, why did Shi Yuantang lead his troops to counterattack on the second day? It was because Liang Cheng’s command rhythm in the siege was so seamless, the Chu State defenders were completely bewildered, unable to catch their breath, and the walls were about to be breached.

Otherwise, according to the script of the prominent Chu Zhuguai, he intended to hold out for ten days or half a month before trying to break out.

So, in that battle, although Liang Cheng couldn’t foresee the presence of a prominent Chu Zhuguai and a royal guard army within, his prior command was perfect and flawless.

It was Liang Cheng’s siege command that forced Shi Yuantang to reveal his hand prematurely.

Now, with Liang Cheng not around.

Li Fusheng has been grinding at West Mountain Fort for quite some time, both sides are familiar, and the Chu people were worn out, almost gaining confidence through repeatedly repelling Yan Army attacks.

Handing over a more difficult situation from Liang Cheng to himself, Lord Zheng, always clear about his abilities, knew he truly couldn’t do it.

But by this point, he couldn’t shirk responsibility.

Lord Zheng took a few steps forward and knelt on one knee before Prince Jingnan:

"I obey the order!"

......

"Come, come, Brother Zheng, familiarize yourself with these people, many are former acquaintances."

Prince Jingnan went to the next military camp, leaving Lord Zheng alone.

At this time, Li Fusheng was introducing his subordinates to Lord Zheng.

About half were acquaintances from before since Zheng Fan had mixed with Li Fusheng’s army while heading south to Qian State together.

Back then, the various leaders of the North Border army were dreaming of promoting their own Lord to the throne, passionately courting talents like Lord Zheng praised by the Earl of North Border.

But by that time, Lord Zheng had already entered the door of Lord Jingnan, and with fast post-war changes, not only did he fail to join the North Border army, but this North Border army nearly merged into the Jingnan army.

Now, he and Li Fusheng were completely equals, and the once higher-ranking generals could only pay respects to him.

The unpredictability of life couldn’t be more evident.

"Greetings, Lord Pingye!"

"Greetings, Lord Pingye!"

The group of generals paid respects to Zheng Fan.

Li Fusheng might not mind the disdain, but these generals were evidently hurt by Lord Zheng’s attitude during the military council.

Lord Zheng had always intended to follow a people-friendly route, getting along well with everyone;

however, Prince Jingnan consistently forced him down another path, confident, arrogant, disregarding everything; this persona, of course, could work, and ultimately becoming the next Tian Wujing;

but this road is really exhausting.

Nonetheless, Lord Zheng didn’t explain anything, just silently nodded; they were cold to him, he could simply keep things work-related.

Lord Zheng looked at Li Fusheng and said:

"Are we attacking tomorrow?"

"Attack, naturally we will attack."

"Then let everyone return to camp and prepare."

Most matters had been discussed during the military council, repeating them now wouldn’t make sense.

"I take my leave!"

"I take my leave!"

After these generals departed, Li Fusheng smiled and said, "Don’t mind them, these brats have been spoiled by me."

Lord Zheng touched the tip of his nose and said, "It was my distraction."

"I saw that."

"Now it seems, somewhat caught in a dilemma."

Previously, when Li Fusheng asked about the county lord, Lord Zheng was straightforward.

Li Fusheng looked at Zheng Fan with a satisfaction of a previous protégé finally surpassing him.

"Brother Zheng, you’re being modest. To be honest, having you command puts my mind at ease significantly."