Dawn broke over the northern passes, mist curling around jagged rocks and pine forests. The "vulnerable" village that Jeng Minh had deliberately left lightly defended lay quiet, seemingly awaiting conquest. From afar, the Phoenix's army advanced with precision, scouts reporting every minor detail to their commander, who studied the unfolding scene like a master playing a grand game of chess.
Jeng Minh, observing from a hidden vantage, allowed the tension to build. Every step of the Phoenix army, every choice they made, was a reflection of their mind—bold, disciplined, and cunning. The chain thrummed faintly, a reminder that every pulse of perception mattered.
Bai Ye leaned closer. "They've taken the bait. They believe the village is a weak point. Entire battalions are moving in, confident in swift victory."
Jeng Minh's eyes narrowed. "Confidence is their tool—and their trap. They think they dictate the engagement, but the battlefield has already been shaped. Every supply line, every path of retreat, every tactical elevation has been accounted for. They are stepping into a controlled environment, a living experiment of strategy."
The Phoenix commander, riding at the head of the formation, surveyed the village carefully. "Light defenses… minimal resistance… no sign of hidden units. Our calculations hold. Engage cautiously, but with authority."
Unseen, Jeng Minh signaled a small contingent of hidden troops to strategic vantage points—forest edges, rocky ridges, and narrow passes. Their purpose was not to fight yet, but to observe, subtly influence, and, if necessary, control the engagement. Every action would be a ripple in a pond whose boundaries Jeng Minh already understood.
As the Phoenix forces advanced into the village, minor skirmishes erupted—not enough to alert the main army, but sufficient to reveal their tactics, response times, and command structure. Jeng Minh watched intently, mentally noting strengths, hesitations, and predictable patterns.
Bai Ye whispered, unease in his voice: "This is risky. If the Phoenix realizes the trap too soon…"
Jeng Minh shook his head, calm and focused. "Risk is a measure of knowledge. They do not yet know the full extent of what they face. Observe, learn, and only act when advantage is absolute. This is the art of strategy—the Phoenix believes it controls the game, but the board has already been tilted in our favor."
Hours passed. The Phoenix commander continued their calculated advance, confident yet meticulous, revealing subtle weaknesses in troop coordination and supply logistics. Jeng Minh cataloged everything, the chain pulsing softly as if approving each observation.
By late afternoon, a small contingent of Jeng Minh's hidden troops subtly influenced the engagement, redirecting minor skirmishes and creating the illusion of chaos in areas the Phoenix had considered secure. The Phoenix forces reacted with precision—but each reaction only revealed further patterns, a map of decision-making that Jeng Minh could now fully exploit.
Finally, as the sun began its descent, Jeng Minh leaned forward. "Now," he whispered to Bai Ye. "The Phoenix believes it has maneuvered into advantage. It is time to see whether they can truly adapt—or if the hand guiding perception will remain unseen."
The first true confrontation between master and rising strategist was about to begin, a battle not of brute force, but of intellect, foresight, and subtle influence.