Chapter 448 - Chapter 448: Chapter 455: Eager to Try (1/2)

Chapter 448: Chapter 455: Eager to Try

Especially Han Yu, after a few victorious minor trials of his military strategy, was even excited and eager at the news that Zhao Fan was about to lead an attack. He thought that prevailing when forces were evenly matched was no significant feat, but achieving victory when the odds were heavily stacked against you—that was truly grasping the essence of “The Art of War”. Previously, he could only sit and study military tactics, knowing that talking about war on paper was ultimately just theory. Now, finally, he had the chance to apply his skills—what did a bit of danger matter!

Knowing that Zhao Fan was preparing a major offensive, although Liu Xiu didn’t seem as eager as Han Yu, he was still fairly composed. After all, he had encountered countless dangers on this campaign; if he hadn’t stayed composed, he would have been scared to death long ago. However, such a major issue couldn’t be taken lightly, and he immediately gathered his generals and advisors to discuss a secure strategy.

But most others weren’t as composed as Han Yu and Liu Xiu; after all, the enemy outnumbered them several times over. Even though they had scored a few minor victories recently, this couldn’t conceal their greatest disadvantage in the war—that this battle would be brutal, even if they didn’t lose.

“General, let’s retreat,” a soldier who was somewhat intimidated by the enemy’s strength said. “The troops sent by the brigand Zhao Fan outnumber us by several times. Even if General Han is adept at military strategy, it’s impossible to overcome them. It’d be better to retreat for now and preserve our strength, to await the day when we have the capability to counter the brigand,” he suggested, only to be immediately countered.

“Nonsense! Retreating without a fight, is that not the act of a coward?! Besides, our morale is high while the enemy’s is low. Even if we’re outmatched in numbers, with General Han leading us, we might be able to defeat the enemy. Even in defeat, we’d have our honor. I refuse to act like a coward without guts!”

“What defines a coward? Anyone who charges into a battle they know they can’t win, making a pointless sacrifice, is even more despicable than a coward. Even if you don’t care about your own life, think of your wife and child at home. Is such a worthless sacrifice really worth it? I also believe we should save our strength and withdraw. That’s called recognizing the reality! Don’t assume we’re invincible just because we won a few minor battles. Those were only small enemy detachments. When the full force attacks, it’s not so easy to hold them back. Don’t overestimate some people’s abilities,” another retorted.

Han Yu, hearing this person speak so, swept a sharp glance over him. This person had always been on good terms with Yin Shi and being opposed to him was expected, but it was inappropriate to voice such discouraging opinions at this time. It was an obvious blow to morale, a “noble” excuse that was clearly driven by fear, exaggerating the enemy’s strength.

Although displeased, Han Yu said nothing. His current status and social position did not warrant stooping to argue with those feeble-minded and timid. Moreover, he knew Liu Xiu’s stance; this battle was inevitable and there was no possibility of retreat. If one lacked even that courage, they were undeserving of the position they yearned for.

Even though there were a few timid and cowardly people, they were in the minority. Liu Xi had a good eye for people. So, before Han Yu could express his dissatisfaction, someone already retorted against that person’s words: “Even if we were to retreat, we should put up a fight first. The outcome is not yet decided, so don’t utter such discouraging talk. It’s just an excuse for your own fears. If you’re so afraid of death, why join the army at all? You would be better off staying home and caring for your child!”

“What did you say! You brute who only knows force, think a bit more. There’s nothing shameful about withdrawing now; it’s just a matter of strategy. Haven’t we said we’ll take our revenge on the brigand when our strength suffices!”

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