It wasn't that Liu Ji didn't want to quickly annihilate Xiang Yu, but rather that he wasn't confident that the Han army and the Huainan army alone could defeat the Chu army. For now, the only option was to wait for reinforcements from Qi and other states to arrive before continuing the attack.
If Han Xin doesn't come, Cao Can will definitely come. At that time, with the addition of Zhou Bo, Xiahou Ying, Wu Rui, and other armies, they can take advantage of the situation and march all the way to Jiangdong, forcing Xiang Yu to jump into the sea and commit suicide.
Of course, this was all Liu Ji's wishful thinking; Xiang Yu would never stoop to the point of jumping into the sea.
With the intervention of Hao Jiu's system, Xiang Yu not only returned to Jiangdong, but also gained more than 40,000 troops, all of whom were elite.
In contrast, the Han army suffered a significant reduction in strength. While troop losses were relatively easy to replenish, the loss of officers, including Zhang Liang, Fan Kuai, Chai Wu, Wang Yi, and Yang Xi, was not something that could be remedied in a short time. Zhang Liang alone was irreplaceable.
Hao Jiu is now certain that Liu Ji's Black Dragon System was unaware of the Chu-Han Contention, which is why he and Xiang Yu were able to gain such an advantage from the moment they broke out of Gaixia, and even capture Zhang Liang alive.
However, from now on, Hao Jiu's historical knowledge will not be of much use. History has changed too much. What follows is the real battle between the two systems and the two hosts.
Of course, there shouldn't be a major battle in Jiujiang County before the Qi reinforcements arrive, meaning there's at least a two-week preparation period.
Hao Jiu and Xiang Yu only returned to Jiangdong after recognizing this opportunity.
The fleet sailed downstream and soon arrived at Jiangcheng, where the garrison commander Cao Fang came out of the city to greet them.
Of the eight thousand Jiangdong soldiers, aside from those who surrendered to the enemy at Gaixia, almost all of those who broke through with Xiang Yu returned, though some had already become cold corpses.
Xiang Yu gave them a few days off, and those with families were allowed to go home to visit their relatives. After all, it was much more convenient to travel by warhorse.
Those without a family business can take a few days off, or simply buy a house in Jiangcheng, get married, and enjoy a peaceful life.
Xiang Yu and Yu Ji moved into the temporary palace built by Qin Shi Huang during his eastern tour in Jiangcheng. In fact, although it was called a temporary palace, it was not very big. It was just enough for the guards and servants.
Zhang Liang was injured and had someone to take care of him at all times, but he didn't even have anyone to talk to. Xi Juan and Fan Kuai were also imprisoned in solitary confinement, hoping that one day Xiang Yu would exchange them for him.
The following day, Ji Xin, the general stationed in Danyang, also came to Jiangcheng to meet Xiang Yu.
Previously, Guan Ying marched south from Qi, conquering Guangling, Rugao, and even reaching the banks of the Yangtze River.
The Chu army in Kuaiji Commandery naturally had to take precautions, and Ji Bu's younger brother, Ji Xin, was the main general left to guard Jiangdong. He stationed his troops in Danyang City, a hundred miles south of Guangling.
Later, Guan Ying returned by the same route without crossing the river, and Ji Xin remained stationed there, monitoring the situation on the north bank of the river while training the new army.
After news of Zhou Yin's betrayal of Chu reached Jiangdong, Ji Xin had considered going to Gaixia to rescue Xiang Yu, but unfortunately, the army under his command was a newly assembled force that was barely able to defend the Yangtze River, let alone cross it to Gaixia.
In addition, the Chu army in Jiangdong was not without its opponents. Fan Jun Wu Rui, who was originally appointed by Xiang Yu as the King of Hengshan, had returned to Fanyang in Jiangnan and was ready to attack Kuaiji County at any time.
If Ji Xin really went to Gaixia, Jiangdong would be in danger. If Chu lost its last piece of territory, where would Xiang Yu go after breaking out of Gaixia?
Fortunately, Xiang Yu returned safely, and Ji Xin finally felt relieved.
"This humble general pays his respects to King Xiang," Ji Xin said, bowing.
"You're in such a hurry to see me because you want to know about Ji Bu, right?" Xiang Yu sighed inwardly. If it weren't for Ji Bu and others' northern army holding back Han Xin and Peng Yue, the breakout from Gaixia wouldn't have been so smooth.
"Reporting to King Xiang, besides paying my respects to you, I do indeed have this intention. I wonder where my brother is now?" Ji Xin had already asked others; Ji Bu had not returned to Jiangdong with Xiang Yu.
"Ji Bu is the commander of the northern army. He, Zhongli Mei, and Xiang Zhuang broke through from Gaixia to the north. If all goes well, they should be arriving at Boyang soon." Xiang Yu was also a little worried, but the two armies were separated by the north and south and had no communication. There was nothing he could do even if he was anxious.
"God of Wine, is there any way to find out the current situation of Ji Bu and the others?" Xiang Yu asked in his heart.
"There's no good solution for now, but it should be fine in a while." Hao Jiu hesitated for a moment, wondering whether or not to spend the money, as communication and transportation were major problems in ancient times.
The fastest mode of transportation was the post station, where fast horses were prepared for continuous transfers. This is how the "800-li urgent delivery" came about, and traveling 1,000 li a day was not impossible.
The fastest means of communication is carrier pigeons. While it is true that pigeons can transmit information by taking advantage of their homing behavior, the preparation for this is quite troublesome.
First, you need to find at least one pair of healthy pigeons. Then, select a place that is convenient for receiving intelligence as the pigeons' home. Keep the pigeons in cages and raise them well. Once they lay eggs, hatch chicks, and grow up to be able to fly long distances, the homing pigeons are basically formed.
When using these carrier pigeons, the user needs to take the pigeons with them. No matter where they go, the pigeons with the information tied to them will fly back to their home, thus realizing the transmission of information.
For armies going out to fight, pigeons are a one-way communication method. If two-way communication is desired, two nests of pigeons are needed, which breed in the two locations to be contacted and exchange newborn pigeons.
In addition, homing pigeons are not without their dangers. They may get lost during long-distance flights or be killed by predators such as eagles.
Therefore, even if Hao Jiu wanted to find a more convenient means of communication, he wouldn't rely on carrier pigeons as the primary method; carrier pigeons could still be used as a supplementary means.
Actually, as long as you're willing to spend energy points, Hao Jiu can get all sorts of cutting-edge technology. The problem lies in the cost-effectiveness—whether it's worth the money. If it's too expensive, just skip it. Just persevere, and after you finish the beginner quests, you might be able to go to another dimension.
Xiang Yu thought to himself that this God of Wine was truly powerful, but sometimes he was too stingy, and he always said to wait a while, without knowing what he was waiting for.
"Boyang? What are they doing there?" Ji Xin frowned. Boyang is south of Mount Tai. It is now the territory of the State of Qi, but it belonged to the State of Lu in earlier times.
Xiang Yu sighed, "Alas, when we broke out at Gaixia that night, I did not know it would go so smoothly. Therefore, I ordered Ji Bu and others to lead the northern army to break out towards Boyang, because that is the land of Lu, and I was once the Duke of Lu. The local people should be able to accept my army."
Moreover, the Lu region is bordered by Mount Tai to the north, the Si River and numerous mountain ranges to the south, and continuous mountain ranges to the east, making it a place that is easy to defend and difficult to attack. If they could capture the Qi Great Wall on the Mount Tai mountain range, that would be even better.
If they can hold out for a while, I, the king, can march back to Pengcheng and even invade Qi. In truth, this plan is a last resort; I am also very worried about their safety.”
“I see. Boyang’s walls are strong. If the army and the people are of one mind, they should be able to hold out for a long time. The main force of the Han army is in Jiujiang County. The Qi army will also be attacking Jiangdong soon, so the pressure on Lu will not be so great. But King Xiang, will the people of Lu really fight to the death to help you because of your former title of Duke of Lu?” Ji Xin was somewhat incredulous.
“The people of Lu value promises and righteousness, and many follow the teachings of Confucius and Mencius. Perhaps they can truly uphold righteousness for me. If this matter fails, Ji Bu and his men will likely seek opportunities to develop in Hebei. I believe that we will meet again someday.”
When Xiang Yu heard Hao Jiu recount the future of defeat, he learned that the people of Lu had not surrendered to Liu Ji even when he committed suicide at Wujiang, and only gave up resistance after seeing his head.
If this is true, then Ji Bu and the others should be fine on their journey; if it's false, then they'll have to leave it to fate...
Boyang City, outside the East Gate.
After days of rapid marching, the Chu army had completely shaken off the pursuing Liang and Qi armies, achieving its planned objective and successfully arriving at Boyang.
"Seeing the banners of King Xiang and the State of Chu, yet no one came out to greet us, could it be..." Zhongli Mei glanced at the city wall from afar; it was indeed heavily guarded.
Ji Bu interrupted Zhongli Mei, "Don't overthink it. Once we've rested, we can go ask them. Even if there's a problem, we can still make it."
Xiang Zhuang straightened his armor. "I'll take some men and ask them."
"I'll go. You two can provide backup." Zhongli Mei said, then turned and walked towards the city gate.
Ji Bu and Xiang Zhuang exchanged a glance but did not object. Ji Bu was the commander-in-chief, and Xiang Zhuang was a member of the Xiang clan. Neither of them was suitable for taking risks, and sending just any soldier would not be enough. Naturally, Zhongli Mei was the most suitable.
Soon, Zhongli Mei arrived at the city gates with more than a dozen guards.
"Don't fire the arrows! I am Zhongli Mei, a general of Chu. We are Xiang Yu's army. I beg the garrison commander of Boyang to show himself or open the city gates to let us in!" Zhongli Mei shouted.
After a brief silence.
Splash...
Countless swords, spears, and arrows on the city wall were instantly aimed at the Chu army outside the city!
Chapter 69 Lu Returns to Chu
Splash...
The Chu soldiers hurriedly raised their shields to protect Zhongli Mei.
"It's alright." Zhongli Mei knew that if the enemy wanted to harm him, they would have already launched a sneak attack. Making such a big show of force was probably just to scare them.
However, no sooner had Zhongli Mei finished speaking than someone on the city wall gave an order.
Arrest them all!
Zhongli Mei felt a chill run down her spine. Could it be that the other party wanted to capture her alive?
Just then, another general on the city wall raised his hand; it was Li Sheng, the garrison commander of Boyang City.
"Wait a minute! When did it become your place as a deputy general to make decisions about Boyang?"
"Well, I was just afraid that Zhongli Mei would escape, so I was a bit impatient. If we can capture Zhongli Mei, we can get a lot of rewards from both the King of Qi and the King of Han. General Li can be ennobled."
The person speaking had a fawning expression on their face; their eyes, which were already small, disappeared when they smiled.
"I have my own plans. You may step back." Li Sheng waved his hand.
"Uh, yes." The small-eyed lieutenant bowed and retreated, his brows furrowed into a deep frown.
After dismissing his deputy, Li Sheng poked his head out of the crenellation and shouted down, "Zhongli Mei, why have you come to my Boyang?"
"Xiang Yu led his army to fight a decisive battle with the Han army at Gaixia, but Han Xin, Peng Yue, Ying Bu and other armies took the opportunity to surround Gaixia. Furthermore, Zhou Yin, the Grand Marshal of Jiujiang, defected to Liu Ji. Xiang Yu had no choice but to order his troops to break through the encirclement. He said that the people of Lu are loyal and righteous and would not turn our army away, so we have taken the liberty of coming here." Zhongli Mei clasped his hands and said.
"Hiss... Grand Marshal Zhou Yin has betrayed us? Where is King Xiang?" Upon hearing this, the general guarding Boyang became anxious.
Zhongli Mei's eyes lit up. This person was so concerned about Xiang Yu, he must not be an enemy.
"Who exactly are you?"
"I am Li Sheng, the garrison commander of Boyang." Li Sheng clasped his hands in a fist salute, then whispered to the guards behind him, "Go and invite General Xiang here."
"Yes, sir." The guard replied and turned to leave.
"Oh, so it's General Li. I've heard so much about you." Zhongli Mei naturally hadn't heard of Li Sheng's name before. After all, every city has a garrison general, and there are too many of them.
Of course, when people say "general," they don't necessarily mean they actually hold the rank of general. Everyone just uses a nicer term. Even a lowly captain is sometimes called a general.
However, the current situation is special. The city of Boyang has changed hands several times, and the garrison commander may have changed several times. In this chaotic world, there are quite a few self-proclaimed generals.
"General Zhong, are you willing to answer the question from earlier now? If it involves classified information, then don't say anything." Li Sheng gestured for the soldiers to put down their weapons.
"It's a long story. Ji Bu, Xiang Zhuang, and I led the infantry to break through to Boyang in the north, while King Xiang led the cavalry to break through to Jiangdong in the south. Judging by the time, King Xiang should have arrived in Jiangdong by now." Zhongli Mei felt that there was no point in hiding the fact that Xiang Yu had gone to Jiangdong; it would surely become known to the world after some time.
"Oh, I see." Li Sheng nodded.
"I've said everything I needed to say. It's cold outside the city. General Li, could you allow our troops to enter the city to rest? If you disagree, please give me a straight answer so we can find another place to go as soon as possible," Zhongli Mei said, looking at the city wall.
Li Sheng smiled and said, "There's no rush. Let me confirm General Zhong's identity first..."
"General Li, I heard that a large army has arrived outside the city?" A young general climbed up the city wall and came to Li Sheng's side.
"General Xiang, you've come at the right time. Quickly take a look at the people outside the city and see if you recognize them." Li Sheng raised his hand and gestured towards the city below.
The young general arrived at the crenellations and looked out. He was immediately filled with surprise and joy. "Is that General Zhongli Mei below the city?"
"It really is you, you...you are Xiang Sheng?" Zhongli Mei's eyes widened, then she rubbed them hard and took a few steps forward. "It really is you!"
“That’s right, it’s me! General Li, quickly open the city gate!” Xiang Sheng said, holding Li Sheng’s hand.
Li Sheng laughed heartily, "Open the city gates!"
Squeak squeak...
Ji Bu and Xiang Zhuang were overjoyed when they saw the city gates open from afar. They were finally able to find a safe place, and Xiang Yu's guess was correct.
"Line up! Enter the city!" Ji Bu waved his hand.
Xiang Zhuang quickened his pace, "Brother Ji, that person who came out of the city, why does he look so familiar?"
"Huh? You know what, it looks familiar too, like..."
"It's Xiang Sheng! He's not dead!" Xiang Zhuang didn't care about anyone else and strode over. "Xiang Sheng!"