– Move in small groups. Let scouts check the area in advance. If they discover a small camp, you are free to eliminate it but try not to attract attention as long as possible.
– Yes, Lord!
The commanders who listened to the order of their general bowed politely and then hurried to the groups of soldiers allocated to them. Jin Yu Ming, who had already prepared the archers, stood next to Wei Huan, performing the first phase of their plan, which was to prepare for the correct deployment of military forces for a tip-and-run attack.
– What do you think? Will this work? – he asked a question that had been tormenting him for a long time. – To trust a strategy from an unknown lad... You would have never...
– I was not the only one at the council, Yu Ming. The commanders listened to him and agreed. Such tactics are unusual for me. It is cunning and resourceful. The enemy general doesn't expect me to make such a move, so it might work.
Jin Yu Ming had nothing to say. He looked towards Yu Bing Han standing at the fence.
– How did he come up with the idea of using the "mirror" tactics?– wondered the warrior. – Send small groups of soldiers to the resistance camps to divert their attention, thereby giving the rest of the army time to surround the mountain, and clench them.
– He did more than just that, – Huan crossed his arms over his chest, turning his gaze to the slope. – Having studied the area, he discovered that the hill on our side is flatter, with deep cracks and broken stones in the soil. That makes it possible for our archers to climb to the top and shoot from there.
– You were thinking about the same thing.
– I thought about it, but first I wanted to position the troops correctly and not take risks by taking this step. If the archers were spotted, it could provoke the enemy to change strategy and try to attack the main camp. Yu Bing Han took this point into account.
Wei Huan opened the map he was holding and looked at the marked area. On the paper, one could see stitches and arrows pointing in different directions, highlighted places, and combat units marked with dots. Wei Huan's side repelled the enemy almost identically, but while the diversion plan was working, most of the army moved, surrounding the mountain in a clench so that, once in place, it would unexpectedly strike from the rear.
Jin Yu Ming and his archers had to start climbing the mountain later so that they would not be spotted in advance. Bing Han's plan presented at the meeting caused a lot of controversy and doubt, mainly due to the young man's unknown background. But as soon as Wei Huan took the word, recognizing the tactics as effective, most commanders decided to support it.
– If everything works out, – Yu Ming quietly glanced at his friend. – Will you make him your official representative?
– He has already been appointed on this position by the Emperor. – Wei Huan folded the map. – And we cannot guarantee victory. Don't forget, you are my right hand, Yu Ming, so if anything happens to me, the burden of the general cloak will fall on you.
– You said it again. – The man imperceptibly pursed his lips. – You'd better not die so that your friend is free from such responsibility.
Wei Huan smiled slightly but quickly hid his emotions behind a mask of coldness when Yu Bing Han, who had seen enough of the gorge, came closer, standing next to him.
– General, I have finally seen it.
– Seen what?
– Your smile.
Wei Huan's face became even more serious than before, but Jin Yu Ming sharply sniffed the air through his nose, barely restraining the impulse to laugh. He pretended not to notice his friend's stern look and quickly walked away, mentioning the need to check on the soldiers. Knowing Yu Ming's pedantry in military matters, Huan did not doubt that he had simply run away.
When the men were left alone, the general calmly replied:
– No time for smiles.
– Then... will you smile for me in a month and a half?
Wei Huan turned his head slightly, looking at the sly squinting of golden eyes. Yu Bing Han looked back with a kind expression. Due to his side-leaning posture, the silk hanfu sleeve slipped slightly, exposing his pale shoulder. Wei Huan extended his hand and, trying not to touch the youth's skin, straightened the fabric.
– Time will tell.
Bing Han looked naive and innocent, but Wei Huan had already witnessed his ingenuity and cunning, so he was not going to open up so easily. First, he had to test the man to see if he had suitability, abilities, and sincere aspirations similar to his own.
Only then, perhaps, Bing Han will become the one with whom the general can share the hardships and heavy burdens.
***
The last ice between Wei Huan and Bin Han cracked and melted after the long-awaited victory, accurately predicted by the counselor. The unexpected blow that defeated the enemy forces gave the Imperial Army not only an all-consuming feeling of joy but also an unshakable belief that no one could stop them. The talented general had led them to continuous victories for a long time, but now he had a brilliant counselor at his side. And next to that man Wei Huan could finally allow himself to relax a bit.
At first, many high-ranking officials doubted Yu Bing Han's genius, believing that the young man was simply lucky, and only used Wei Huan's tactics, slightly changing and adjusting them to the situation. However, each of the counselors involvement in battles ended with one undeniable result – victory. And therefore all the evil mouths quickly got silent.
For, the result was the most important thing in war.
After a year of victories, the remaining commanders finally recognized Bing Han's talent, thereby officially establishing him as a Military Counselor under the command of Wei Huan.
However, the Supreme General softened his heart only three years later, when he was finally convinced of the young man's desire to expand the lands of the Celestial Empire for the benefit of the Emperor. Bing Han became not only his faithful assistant and good friend but also a person next to whom Wei Huan could be himself, not some ranked official, whose post had been bestowed by His Majesty.
Few were given the chance to see the general without his military uniform and mask of eternal equanimity, for Huan was well aware of his high status and did not take liberties. The soldiers, however, never gave the man any trouble, strictly observing the chain of command. They respected and recognized him, but also thanked him in their hearts for his desire to reduce the number of victims at every opportunity. Wei Huan's hand was firm, but his conscious respect for other people's lives made the general strict in his decisions a mere human.
The presence of the counselor in Wei Huan's life also led to certain consequences not related to the battlefield. Bing Han achieved no less recognition from his subordinates, but some rumors were relentless and spread like wildfire. That is why one evening Yu Bing Han randomly heard some people's lively discussions.
A group of soldiers gathered around the fire for dinner and could not resist the urge to gossip. Their young blood and hot heads spilled out into verbal fantasies. Such topics were not taboo, helping the young men relax somewhat and relieve tension. Though...
– We have not been in the city so long, – sighed one of the men, clutching a chicken leg. – I've already forgotten what women look like.
– Haya, just listen to him! – the second one, sitting closest to the speaker, grinned. – We have an ongoing war, and you're thinking about fun.
– Why so modest? Wasn't it you, who told me your wishes yesterday... Hey! Don't hit me!
The guy tried to avoid the kick by crossing his arms. His older comrade took advantage of the moment and nibbled a piece of chicken that so conveniently caught his eye.
– Naturally, we all have needs, fool, – the soldier snorted, chewing the meat. – But we do not mumble! Not everyone is as lucky as our general.
– General Wei? – the boy who had been silent before, clearly the youngest in their company, looked at his friends in surprise. – What are you talking about?
– Oh, right. You have just arrived and don't know yet. The Supreme General and the Military Counselor have been together for a long time.
– No way! – the guy's already huge eyes became even bigger.
The soldier, sadly looking at his precious but brazenly bitten leg, indignantly hit his friend on the shoulder.
– Don't fool him! – he hissed. – These are just rumors!
– Come on, we all know the truth. Counselor Han goes to see the general almost every night. Oh, if only such a handsome man would visit me...
– Seniors, don't speak so loud! – Confused by the conversations of his friends, the innocent young lad put his finger to his lips and closed his eyes. – Don't let the Eight hear you! Or the general... or his counselor...
– Don't fret, boy, – the provocateur smiled. – You won't be punished for telling the truth.
– En, the counselor is a real treat for the eyes.
The three friends sighed, continuing to exchange various topics, not noticing that they were being closely watched all this time. Bing Han narrowed his clear golden eyes contentedly and then turned around and calmly continued his way to Wei Huan's tent.
His gorgeous hair, which had grown even longer, now practically reached the man's ankles and swayed mesmerizingly with every leisurely step.
The beautiful black hanfu had long since replaced the green student outfit. Bing Han rarely wore a military uniform, but at Huan's insistent request, he periodically put on a protective breastplate.
In the young man's hands, there were a comb and several hair ornaments. A light, constant smile played on his thin scarlet lips, hiding his secret thoughts and true plans.
***
The voices coming from the supreme general's tent were barely audible, but Yu Bing Han could accurately determine who exactly was next to Huan right now. Especially given the late hour and the freedom in words that people not being close to the general could not afford.
– Did the Western troops also retreat?
– Yes, they went south.
When Bing Han's thin palm pulled aside the fabric at the entrance, the negotiations taking place inside became audible. Wei Huan was discussing with Jin Yu Ming the latest news reported by the scouts. The general was not dressed in uniform, unlike Yu Ming standing next to him. The commander had recently returned to the camp and immediately rushed to deliver important news. For this composure and loyalty, Wei Huan incredibly valued his assistant and close friend, whom he could truly rely on for many years.
– General, did they decide to unite under the flag of the Southern Kingdom?
– There is no other option.
– But these scattered tribes stubbornly fought with us for three years, not even wanting to unite with each other. Why now?
– They want to survive, isn't that obvious? – Yu Bing Han smiled at the men who paid attention to him. – Their stubbornness and pride made them fight desperately. But now, realizing that it is pointless... they decided to take refuge under the hand of the only enemy capable of resistance.
– A-Yu. You are here.
Wei Huan smiled at the young man, gesturing for him to come closer. Bing Han obediently stood next to the general, receiving several folded pieces of paper from him. Quickly unfolding them, the counselor ran his eyes over the short text that conveyed the main idea.
– It turns out that they want to attack the Emperor, taking advantage of the devastation created over three years. – Jin Yu Ming concluded. – With new strength, the Southern Kingdom may well do this.
– Maybe. – Wei Huan nodded. – His Majesty continues to advance and seize territories. And now with the main military forces concentrated on the borders the Celestial Empire is weakened.
– It's also worth considering that little time has passed since the foundation of the Empire, so there are many gaps in the defense. – added Bin Han. – I can send a message to the Emperor to focus on strengthening the watchtowers and walls.
– Good idea, – Huan supported the idea, and then turned to Yu Ming. – Report to the commanders that we will soon head back to the Capital. Let the soldiers be ready.
– At your command, – Jin Yu Ming bowed. – General, does this mean this will be the final battle?
– Yes. And it should be decisive. If we win, we will fulfill the Emperor's will.
– When we win, we will fulfill the will of our Emperor, – corrected Bing Han with a smile, emphasizing the first word, and received an approving nod in response.
Jin Yu Ming did not linger any longer. He left his friend's tent. Yu Bing Han took advantage of this gifted opportunity. He carefully went behind Wei Huan's back to run the tips of his long fingers over his tense shoulders.
– The map will not change, even if you read it to the holes, – there were cheerful notes in the strategist's voice. – Take a break from your thoughts and relax a little.
– I'm just thinking about the current setup, – Wei Huan rubbed the bridge of his nose with his fingers, closing his eyes. – If we are correct and the southern lands are preparing an offense, we must react... the sooner the better...
Wei Huan was unable to finish speaking due to the finger pressed to his lips. Yu Bing Han slowly shook his head and carefully placed the comb into the man's palm.
– Enough, A-Wei. You have already given the order. We are returning to the capital and beginning to plan a counter-strike. I will take over the defense. You know my abilities and believe in them, right?
Yu Bing Han removed his finger from Wei Huan's lips and turned towards the mirror in the corner. There was nothing like that here before, but it appeared at the request of the strategist.
– I do believe. I'm just afraid to imagine the number of victims if we make even one mistake.
– Are there battles without casualties?
– I don't want to cause a senseless massacre, A-Yu. You know my principles. If there is even the slightest chance of a peaceful outcome, I will take it.
Wei Huan approached the young man who sat down on a low couch, gently touched his hai, and then began to comb it. This small ritual they developed not long ago, but it quickly became a pleasant habit. Bing Han enjoyed Wei Huan's inept but careful and gentle actions, while the general simply enjoyed moments of peace, not thinking about anything and allowing himself to talk his heart out.
– So you want to try to negotiate peace?
– Yes. If the Emperor allows, I will try to convey this to the commander-in-chief of the enemy army.
– You will have to come up with favorable terms for such an agreement. I don't think a couple of mu of earth and a bag of gold will solve the situation.
– That is why I cannot discuss such issues without His Majesty's word.
Yu Bing Han handed Wei Huan the ribbon and he carefully took it, tying the silken hair. The Counselor's smile was reflected in the mirror, but Huan was too absorbed in his thoughts and did not notice it.
– Will Lao Jin agree?
– Yu Ming? – the general arched his eyebrows in surprise. – He always follows me, no matter what decision I make. Besides, he knows my military policy very well. He was one of those who saw how often high-ranking officials opposed me because of this.
-Have you known each other for so long?
– We joined the imperial army together, and before... When we were kids, we used to fight with sticks, running barefoot through the dirty streets and scaring grumpy merchants. He is my brother. Not by blood, but by spirit.
Yu Bing Han nodded, but made no answer, plunging the tent into calm silence. Wei Huan did not try to continue the dialogue, believing that the silent young man wanted to rest, so he did not expect that after a while he would suddenly stand up, turning to face the man looking him straight into the eyes.
– A-Yu?
– He is your faithful assistant, your right hand, your best friend, and a faithful brother, – came a caressing, playful whisper. -Who am I to you then?
The bright gold of the youth's eyes contrasted noticeably with the impenetrable deep darkness of Huan's eyes. Bing Han extended his hand, touching Wei Huan's chest.
– Your heart?
This time the silence rang differently. Yu Bing Han smiled when he noticed the unexpected confusion and confusion in the general's gaze. An amazing warrior, a great strategist, and a brilliant commander did not know what to do in such a simple situation.
His Adam's apple twitched continuously, and strong palms hastily touched the Counselor's shoulders gently pulling the young man away from him. Behind the cold mask of Wei Huan, it was so easy to forget that he was only twenty-six, and many simple human feelings passed him by due to forced military service and the debt hanging on him.
Bing Han stood there for some time, amused by the confusion, but then took the initiative and changed the topic.
– Go, have some rest, A-Wei. Tomorrow you will have to convene a council and decide on our departure to the capital.
It was clear from the general that the straightforwardness of the counselor had amazed him deeply, but he was diligently trying to pull himself together.
– Yes, you are right. You too. Have some rest.
When the young man left the tent, Wei Huan allowed himself to exhale quietly and shook his head. It is not for nothing people say that human feelings are the most terrible weapon. They cannot be avoided.