Chapter 529: Spare Your Lives
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
“Despite the entrance being easy to defend and challenging to attack, with numerous traps, there’s no need for excessive concern.”
“The reason for delaying the assault isn’t rooted in fear of death, as the rumors suggest, nor does it reflect a lack of confidence in victory. Instead, it’s a strategic decision aimed at minimizing casualties—I want each one of you to return alive!”
Qin Silong’s final words resonated deeply with the ordinary soldiers.
They had witnessed Qin Silong’s commitment during the morning’s initial attack when he ordered a retreat after losing over a hundred soldiers. His actions demonstrated genuine care for the troops, proving his sincerity.
He stood apart from officials who treated the lives of ordinary soldiers callously, emphasizing that the life of a deputy general held equal value to that of an ordinary soldier.
Seeing the impact of his words, Qin Silong pressed on, “Now, I’ve identified the most effective approach to prevail in this battle.”
“Therefore, victory is assured!”
Once again, Qin Silong’s words stirred the collective spirit. While some may still harbor suspicions about his intentions, they rallied together, shouting in unison:
“We will definitely win!”
“We will definitely win!”
Qin Silong gestured for silence, addressing them with a reassuring tone, “The general attack is scheduled for tonight. After lunch, take the opportunity to rest. Rejuvenate, and come to the general attack in your best condition!”
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the dinner horn echoed through the camp.
With darkness settling in after the meal, all the soldiers stood prepared.
Before the imminent battle, Qin Silong addressed his troops once more.
“Tonight’s dinner was kept simple for a reason. I didn’t want you all to eat too much; I want you to travel light. Save the good wine and food for a celebration after we win, alright?”
Qin Silong’s soldiers, taking the lead, responded, “Alright!”
The others echoed, “Alright!”
He continued, “We’re fully prepared for this general attack! Over the past few days, we’ve deciphered the critical mechanisms they’ve set up. During the attack, we’ll send forces to dismantle those mechanisms and infiltrate the enemy ranks to coordinate from within. With our preparations, we stand a high chance of victory!”
“Don’t doubt my words; I have no reason to deceive you. The attack will commence shortly, and I’ll personally lead as the vanguard!”
Qin Silong’s commitment in leading the charge made his sincerity undeniable. Even if there were doubts about his words, the fact that he was willing to take the lead erased any lingering skepticism.
In the face of a potential retreat, the stakes were clear—desertion was a dead end. Monitoring them closely were individuals ready to enforce consequences with no mercy for any escape attempts.
Thus, the soldiers chose to believe Qin Silong’s words.
The attack horn resounded, and Qin Silong, true to his word, led 4,000 regular troops in the vanguard charge. The 5,000 temporarily recruited soldiers followed, arranged at the rear. The remaining 1,000 regular troops, along with Chiliarch Yang’s unit, were stationed behind, ready to join the offensive.
As anticipated, the traps concealed along the roadside had been successfully neutralized.
The soldiers erupted in joy.
Madam’s efforts had significantly reduced casualties, focusing on countering the sharp arrows unleashed by the enemy. Additionally, the frontline comprised elite soldiers capable of contending with multiple foes, further minimizing potential losses.
The swiftness of their assault surpassed expectations, boosting morale among the troops.
Amidst the action, an individual appointed by Qin Silong wielded a loudspeaker and directed a message toward the adversaries,
“Listen, inhabitants within! All your mechanisms and concealed weaponry have been dismantled by our forces!”
“Depending solely on archery won’t prolong your resistance for much longer!” “I recommend surrendering peacefully, and I’ll guarantee the preservation of your lives!”