The army's march north was swift and disciplined. Li Wei rode at the head of the column, his steel sword sheathed at his side, a visible symbol of the kingdom's strength. Behind him, banners bearing the imperial crest fluttered in the wind, a sea of crimson and gold stretching across the horizon.
As they neared Lord Feng's estate, scouts brought back reports. "Your Majesty," one scout said, bowing low, "Feng's forces have fortified their position. They've built barricades along the main road and stationed archers in the surrounding hills."
Li Wei studied the map Cao Ren unfurled before him. "They're trying to funnel us into a choke point. If we attack head-on, we'll be sitting ducks for their archers."
"Agreed," Cao Ren said. "But if we take the hills, we can neutralize their advantage and force them into open combat."
Lin Mei, who had joined the march, spoke up. "That's assuming they don't have reinforcements hiding nearby. Feng isn't stupid—he'll have contingencies."
"Then we'll need a diversion," Li Wei said, his mind racing. "Send a small detachment to the hills to draw their fire while the main force flanks from the east. Once we control the high ground, we'll have the advantage."
The generals nodded, impressed by the emperor's tactical acumen. Cao Ren barked orders, and the army moved swiftly to execute the plan.
As night fell, Li Wei stood on a ridge overlooking the battlefield. The detachment in the hills had successfully drawn the enemy's attention, allowing the main force to encircle the estate. Fires burned in the distance, casting an eerie glow over the landscape.
Lin Mei approached, her expression grim. "The diversion worked, but Feng's forces are regrouping. He's brought out siege engines—catapults and battering rams."
Li Wei frowned. "So he's prepared for a long fight. Then we'll give him one. Cut off his water supply. Without it, his defenses will crumble."
"And if he attacks before the water runs dry?" Lin Mei asked.
Li Wei's gaze hardened. "Then we show him why the crown cannot be challenged."
The next morning, the imperial army launched its assault on the estate's outer defenses. Arrows rained down from the hills as soldiers clashed with Feng's men. Li Wei fought alongside his troops, his steel sword cutting through the chaos with precision.
Despite their numerical disadvantage, Feng's forces fought fiercely. By midday, the battle had reached a stalemate, with heavy losses on both sides. As Li Wei regrouped with his commanders, a messenger arrived, his face pale.
"Your Majesty," the messenger said breathlessly, "Feng's reinforcements are two days away. Five thousand men."
Li Wei's jaw tightened. "Then we finish this before they arrive."