Four
I will be in the center of the army, leading the Iron Floating Tower and the ten thousand cavalry given to me by my brother. When our front and rear forces are cut off, I will lead the charge forward.
Balu handed a golden arrow to Buhala, saying, "The orders to leave the city will be delivered by me to each general. Since the timing varies, everyone must complete their formations before we can sound the drum to depart"
I will cut through the cavalry regiment of Huduluhan; if I can, I will sever the golden gray wolf flag of Huduluhan. As Asule extended his hand, he looked at Buhala, saying, "The white night gray wolf flag will be entrusted to the general."
December 23, midnight
The cavalry from the north turned pale at the sight of it
He remembered that moment when he lunged at the old man, wanting to shout something, but it was already too late. The gushing blood from his neck contrasted with the pale sky, magnificent yet sorrowful
Shan Bi Kong wishes to wave his sleeve and say to those young people eager for achievement or revenge, "Step back, you are rushing towards your own demise"
Barubazha, accompanied by dozens of Flying Tiger cavalry, advanced until they were only one hundred paces away from the mountain under the clear sky. They all drew their bows and nocked their arrows, as they were renowned marksmen, especially Bazha, who, during the military exercises in the Daliu Camp in the East, consistently claimed the first prize in archery competitions.
"Let that person take care of it," Huduluhan smiled, "Since he is such a powerful individual, let him guard my flag. Let us go!"
He furrowed his brow slightly. Although his forces had the advantage, most of them were deployed to eliminate the enemy's rear troops, engaging in slaughter against the middle troops that posed no combat capability. However, the cavalry of the Mosul family fought to the death, and the Shuo Bei people found it difficult to completely annihilate them for the time being. Their forces were bogged down and could not be recalled in time. The troops besieging the enemy's front line faced immense pressure, as the enemy's left and right flanks were composed of exceptionally elite cavalry. Moreover, the commander of Qingyang had concealed a fresh force behind the left and right flanks. Now, he unleashed this fresh force, quickly gaining a numerical advantage on the front line. The troops besieging the enemy's front line faced immense pressure, as the enemy's left and right flanks were composed of exceptionally elite cavalry. Moreover, the commander of Qingyang had concealed a fresh force behind the left and right flanks. Now, he unleashed this fresh force, quickly gaining a numerical advantage on the front line.
The 20,000 cavalry reinforcements from the northern front of Shu have bypassed the obstacles formed by the left and right flanks and are rapidly approaching them. The Shu northern cavalry, which had just been scattered by the Flying Tiger Camp, is regrouping. A massive encirclement net is spreading towards the Flying Tiger Camp. The entire "Arrow" formation has been divided into three parts. The rear guard, Bach, is engaged in a fierce battle, while the left and right flanks, King Jiu and Mu Haiyang, are also struggling. The central figure, Buhua La, who is being protected, has realized that the situation is shifting unfavorably for them. He is desperately trying to break through with his ghost bow to get closer to the Flying Tiger Camp, but he cannot do so. What stands in front of him is not the enemy, but his own comrades who are fighting to the death. The left and right flanks have already suffered over half of their casualties, and the warriors have no chance to regroup for a charge. They are holding onto their steeds, wielding their swords to slash, and even dismounting to fight on foot, engaging in a brutal melee.
On this rare winter day with a southern breeze, the warriors of Qingyang found themselves in an advantageous position. The gradually strengthening wind stirred up the snow dust, heading towards the northern cavalry downwind. This favorable wind direction encouraged them to accelerate their march. The speed of the steeds instilled a sense of unwavering courage, and after a brief trot, the warhorses warmed up, becoming increasingly excited as they reared their heads and neighed, moving faster and faster
This is not the time for battle! Nine Wang said anxiously and angrily, "Have you faced Meng Le Huo Er? That is not a human, it is a devil!"
"But Asule also has blood from the north," Gui Mu retorted, "How can Asule's experience on the battlefield compare to yours, brother? You have faced the Kuafu army in the west!"
"No, you can't see it," Xu Dahuan said softly, "Sometimes when I look in the mirror, I can't even see it myself."
Buhala glanced at the young man and suddenly recalled that the last time he had shaken hands with him was with the emaciated old slave, Muli, performing a similar gesture, their gazes somewhat alike. He remained silent for a long time, then reached out and firmly grasped Asule's hand. Both exerted strength, feeling the cold sweat in each other's palms.
Behind him is the Flying Tiger Tent, a unit that has been absent from the Qingyang Nine Tents Cavalry for many years. Bi Mogang has restored this cavalry, personally training them and making them his own elite guards. At this moment, ten thousand men are clad in ten thousand pieces of Eastern Land iron armor, gripping ten thousand Eastern Land pure steel folding swords. This is a fresh force, and Asule has been carefully protecting them behind the left and right flanks.
The range of the bows and arrows in the Flying Tiger Camp can reach up to 150 paces, allowing them to shoot at the mountain's azure sky from all directions at this distance. The lethal range of the burning wind extends beyond 100 paces, and since the sorcerers require a time interval to cast their spells, one can take advantage of the gaps to shoot down the mountain's azure sky.
The sky has begun to lighten slightly, and with the keen eyes of a hawk, sharp and unyielding, one can faintly discern some dark shadows lingering a few miles ahead.
The cavalry of the Flying Tiger Camp trembled in fear before the incredible power of the enemy, and for a moment, no one responded to Asule.
Gui Mu was taken aback for a moment and scratched his head
Fengfeng! He had heard of this secret technique, where the practitioners extracted the essence of sunlight to use it as a weapon against enemies, but he did not expect the range of this technique to extend to a hundred paces away
Their arrows had reached the front of the mountain, but upon encountering that disturbance, they instantly turned to ashes. The steel arrowheads melted into molten iron, fell into the snow, and then cracked into iron slag, emitting wisps of white vapor.
"Barubaza! Come back!" Asule shouted, "Spread out! Everyone, prepare your bows and arrows!"
Buhala was taken aback, "No! That is the most dangerous position. If Dayan encounters any issues, who will be in command?"
"Is there anything else you would like to instruct, Danyan?" said Buhala.
Dear Lord of the Wuchijin family, this sentence can be reserved for when we take the head of the Wolf Lord.
In front of them stood only two enemies, the rear ranks of the Shuo Bei cavalry and Khagan Hudulu under the banner of the Golden Wolf, and further away, Menglehuoer under the banner of the White Night Wolf
The right flank's Mu Haiyang unit also pushed their speed to the limit, with both left and right flanks consisting of elite cavalry. They further converged towards the center army, their steeds almost running side by side, having formed an unstoppable arrow, about to commence the "heart-piercing" attack
A commotion arose within the Qingyang army
The banner of the White Night and the Canglang, "Bu Hualazi felt the fear deep within his heart rising like a bubble from the depths, "That is the Lord of the Northern Wolves! The entire White Wolf Corps is there!
There is hope, Your Highness has chosen the right leader!" The head of the Ochirkin family nodded and said, "However, although there is bravery, the military strength is still somewhat lacking compared to the northern forces, isn't it?
The northern gate of Beidu City is a massive copper gate equipped with iron teeth, which slowly descends under the mechanism's push, with the iron teeth inserting into the iron trough in the ground, completely sealing off the interior from the exterior. On the city wall, the warriors led by Ban Zhalie draw their longbows, with three thousand sharp arrows aimed at the outside of the city. Once the army below leaves, they will never be able to return. In the chaos of battle, even allies approaching the city wall will be shot down by stray arrows
It may be intentional, the master of the Aochijin family shook his head, "The rear army is merely delaying the enemy's main force, while the front army has concentrated the superior troops of the Nine Kings, Mu Haiyang, and the personal guards of the Grand Duke. Although there are many people in the northern part of Shu, we do not have the advantage, and our army still has reserves."
The mountain blue sky paid no heed to the cries of this ordinary person, as he gracefully danced around the flagpole. It was the dance of the divine, both enchanting and vigorous, akin to ancient trees in the depths of the forest gently swaying their newly sprouted branches in the moonlight and the wind. He called upon the purest and most magnificent power of this land to attach itself to his body; in this moment, he would briefly transcend humanity, transforming into a semi-divine being, free from concern for the anger of those insignificant creatures. The sword of the divine had already been unsheathed, and what followed would be nothing but slaughter. He called upon the purest and most magnificent power of this land to attach itself to his body; in this moment, he would briefly transcend humanity, transforming into a semi-divine being, free from concern for the anger of those insignificant creatures. The sword of the divine had already been unsheathed, and what followed would be nothing but slaughter
I understand. Asule listened to the anxious chirping of Yingyue, "He is still a high-ranking priest of the Chenyue sect"
Asule shook his head, "Once the battle begins, with this formation, we will not need a commander; no one will be able to command effectively. Both the enemy and we will be caught in a melee, with each unit becoming dispersed, and the two armies will be mutually severed. As long as the general can penetrate at the right moment and directly strike at the heart of the White Wolf Regiment, we will have a chance of victory"
Shan Bi looked across at the menacing group on the opposite side. He was already quite old, yet his eyesight had not diminished; he could see the young man surrounded by thousands of troops, dressed in white leather armor and wielding the long sword of the Heavenly Drive leader
That is Khuduluhan, he is retreating towards the White Night Canglang Banner. Barulu pointed into the distance. They had ascended to a high point, and the situation within several miles was clearly visible.
The advance of the Qingyang Army is becoming increasingly rapid, with warhorses racing through the swirling snow and dust, accompanied by the sound of iron blades being drawn. The untrained new troops in the center are gradually unable to keep up with the pace of the charge. The young men are doing their utmost to spur their horses, yet the formation is gradually dispersing. The middle section of this "arrow" is slowly swelling, becoming more and more loose. After galloping for three miles, the entire formation has already elongated to twice its original length. The untrained new troops in the center are gradually unable to keep up with the pace of the charge. The young men are doing their utmost to spur their horses, yet the formation is gradually dispersing. The middle section of this "arrow" is slowly swelling, becoming more and more loose. After galloping for three miles, the entire formation has already elongated to twice its original length
Unlike the battle by the Tainal River, where both sides were already familiar with each other's forces and equipment, this battle required no probing; from the very beginning, it was an all-out engagement.
The one thousand men at the rear, under the support of the iron pagoda, have already broken free from the left and right flanks. They are rapidly closing in, but time is almost up; the ghost archers have already been exposed, and Mengle Huoer will certainly be on guard. The Flying Tiger Camp, however, cannot cut through the White Wolf Regiment. The left and right flanks are on the verge of collapse, and the iron pagoda of Bahang is trapped among the northern cavalry. This proud cavalry, the emperor's pride, is being engulfed by the sea of enemies. The enemy's swords and blades cannot harm them, yet they are unable to charge on horseback, forced to draw their swords and awkwardly swing them. The left and right flanks are on the verge of collapse, and the iron pagoda of Bahang is trapped among the northern cavalry. This proud cavalry, the emperor's pride, is being engulfed by the sea of enemies. The enemy's swords and blades cannot harm them, yet they are unable to charge on horseback, forced to draw their swords and awkwardly swing them.
The generals exchanged a few glances and simultaneously bowed to Asule in greeting. They were all seasoned warriors, and with just a moment's thought, they understood that this was the only way.
"Your Highness, let us withdraw two li!" said the guard warrior. "If the enemy charges at us, pulling back the flag will be too hasty. If we were to lose the flag, it would be quite embarrassing. The enemy is merely struggling in their last throes; once our main forces have dealt with their rear troops, we can turn back and we will have won."
"It has been split in two?" The master of the Tockler family frowned, "This is a major taboo in military strategy."
Bukhara hoped that the last arrow would be shot by himself, even if he would subsequently die under the enemy's arrows. He was not afraid, and he wanted to prove something to that deceased old slave and his three thousand followers with this battle
They were only a few hundred steps away from the golden flag of the Canglang. The one who seizes the flag will be regarded as a hero, and each of them yearns to become a hero. Yet, the heir of the Northern Shuo did not retreat with his battle flag in time, providing them with the best opportunity
Close the city gates! The voice of Asule came from the formation
"Yes, it is the white wolf, it is the one that comes out at night to feast on corpses," Bihua said after a long pause, nodding. "Typically, the master does not follow, those beasts should not discover that we are in formation."
"Close the city gates." He made up his mind, looked up and surveyed his surroundings, "We will still follow the original tactics and engage in a decisive battle with the northern forces outside the city."
Tonight, all the men in Beidu City who are able to fight will not sleep, as they are all waiting. This may be their last chance to win, and they must engage in battle soon. The preparations for war have consumed a large amount of food and fodder, and the remaining supplies are becoming increasingly limited
This is the battlefield, and some people are bound to die. You may feel pity for them, but there is nothing you can do.
The banner of the White Night Canglang was raised by a wolf cavalryman, and the entire White Wolf Regiment rapidly retreated before the battle commenced, yielding the front battlefield to the cavalry regiment led by Khudulu Khan
The mountain stood with a hunched back, leaning against the flagpole, resembling an old man residing in the mountains gazing at an ancient tree. The strong winds stirred up by the cavalry caused his gray robe to flutter loudly, making him appear calm, solitary, and desolate. In the face of the approaching iron cavalry, he showed no signs of fear, exchanging a glance with Asule from several hundred paces away, before turning around, hands behind his back, and strolling around the banner of the gray wolf.
They once boasted of their bravery, but in the face of this force that could almost destroy heaven and earth, they resembled two birds soaring in a thundercloud, listening to the continuous rumble of thunder in their ears, unable to struggle, unaware of when they would meet their demise
In Beidu City, we are still waiting for news, even more so than in Mogan.
The team, located three hundred steps away, was also affected by the hot wind. As Asule was struck by the wave of heat head-on, he found himself unable to breathe in an instant, the hot air he inhaled searing him like a branding iron.
He recalled the battle at the mouth of Seimei Valley where he encountered the national cavalry of Lei, a classic example of a confrontation between a renowned general of the Eastern Continent and the cavalry overlord. The Lei cavalry launched a fierce attack from a distance of approximately 500 paces, their famous "Two-Stage Charge" creating a rolling red tide, unstoppable like a bamboo being split. This was his only experience in actual cavalry combat, as he pondered the distance, hesitating on when to initiate the "Breaking Arrow," the second step of the "Shattered Arrow Formation," which he personally commanded.
Halleza... Asule held him tightly, the image of the boy he had sparred with Ji Ye on the training ground ten years ago dancing in his mind
Buhala watched Asule leave on horseback, stroking the long mane of the translucent bone dragon, and let out a long sigh
I led the charge! Halezha took his spear from the saddle, "Danyan, do not come near!"
The "Two-Stage Charge" of the Eastern Lu Li Kingdom has been reenacted on the grassland, with ten thousand people divided into a front team of five thousand and a rear team of five thousand, separated by several hundred steps, directly aiming for the position of the Golden Wolf Flag
"Fire!" commanded Baruch
He is not worried, nor does he need to be. His teacher is Xi Yan, one of the strongest individuals in the Eastern Land's battle formations, the young genius who once astonished the Emperor during the Tianqi martial arts demonstration, and the renowned general often compared to Li Lingxin of the Fengyan era. Asule is filled with confidence regarding his lineage.
The center of the Shuo Bei cavalry formation quickly became weak, while the left and right flanks concentrated the fastest steeds and the most elite cavalry, resembling the outstretched and then folded wings of a crane, bypassing the formidable left and right flanks of the Qingyang cavalry and suddenly thrusting into the center of the main army
Shan Bi raised both hands to the sky, singing to the heavens, yet no one could understand what he was singing. The totem beneath his feet emitted flames that rose and swirled around him, growing more profound with each breath he took, the flames reaching higher than the top of the flagpole
"I am not troubled by these matters," Xu Dahuan said, pushing Guimu's hand aside and lowering his voice. "We, who bear the blood of the northern tribes, are destined to be mere spectators."
"Are you eager to kill me?" Huduluhan said softly, looking up at his golden-embroidered banner, "Is it that my flag is too dazzling, attracting moths like a flame?"
He knew that such tactics would lead to the death of many, but there was no time left. He needed someone to rush to his side during the brief intervals when Shan Bikong cast his spells twice and strike him down with a single blow
At this moment, looking down from the city wall of Beidu City, the "Arrowhead" of the Qingyang Army's front suddenly split open, as the cavalry of the Ninth Prince's faction and the Muhaiyang faction pressed against the Shubei cavalry on both sides, clearing a path several dozen zhang wide. The "Broken Arrow" had been unleashed, and the long-accumulated killing intent of the Flying Tiger Camp burst forth. Danyan Asule Pasuer led the charge, followed by ten thousand men in red cloaks, galloping on horseback, brandishing their blades, and roaring with abandon.
They are still three miles away from the distant White Night Canglang flag, where there are only three thousand white wolves
Asule took deep breaths against the grayish-white sky, hoping to lift the heavy stone that weighed down on his heart
"Crown Prince, danger! The enemy has broken through from the front!" the guard samurai warned him
Are those the white wolves?" Asule pointed towards the north
This world was created as a battlefield, destined to be soaked in blood; no matter how hard one strives to protect it, the war cannot ultimately be brought to an end
Kill! There is no road behind us!" The Nine Kings of the Left Edge roared, striking two battle knives above his head, producing a piercing roar
I know, look over there. " Asule's face turned slightly pale as he pointed into the distance
"The day before yesterday, I spoke with the general on the city wall, and only you and I know that everyone is aware we will employ the 'piercing heart' strategy, yet they do not know that the final strike will be from the general," Asule said softly. "Only you and I are aware of this. There must be a traitor in the Northern Capital, but this information will not leak unless the traitor is either you or me"
He is still two and a half miles away from the Golden Wolf Flag of Huduluhan
Asule's face was pale, his lips trembled slightly, and he shook his head, "We cannot withdraw."
You have done well, it has been many years since anyone has been able to harm my body. Shan Bikong drew out two spear guns and threw them aside, his face pale without a trace of blood, "Sang Dulu Hayin, take the prince's banner, we are leaving this place."
That is a companion of Asule Danyan, who has now become a renowned warrior in the Northern Capital.
"Hmm, it is best that the enemy does not notice us before we approach their camp, so they won't have time to set any ambushes," Asule said. "Is the location of the camp absolutely reliable?"
In such a situation, one still has to assassinate the Wolf Lord amidst ten thousand troops?" The Khitan nodded slightly, "Good!"
He turned his horse around and galloped towards his own unit composed of three thousand Tiger and Leopard Cavalry, while the other generals dispersed, leaving only Asule and Bukhara standing side by side.
"To take the head of the Wolf Lord?" The master of the Ochi Jin family was taken aback. On the grasslands, there are those who contemplate how to defeat the Northern Army, but the thought of severing the head of that devilish man instills a fear akin to that of slaying a god, a notion he had never entertained.
Halleza stood dazed, unable to believe his eyes, as a cavalryman was engulfed by flames just ten feet in front of him. The moment the flames surged forth, his skin cracked, and blood rapidly vaporized. In the next instant, he was blown apart by the immense force of the fire, his body fragments scattering everywhere. Halleza was a Celestial Driver, and his teacher in the Lower Tang army had once recounted the various horrors of these black-robed clerics. Yet, when he truly witnessed it, he was still stunned. The chanting and dancing Shan Bikun seemed to wield the authority of the divine, mercilessly punishing humanity. Shan Bikun's expression was calm, his gaze serene; in the face of all this bloodshed, he appeared to feel no sense of evil, merely executing his mission with unwavering loyalty.
Because everyone has their own place, perhaps in the next moment, you yourself may perish
What should I do? Is it a dilemma?
The heir... Halazha feels that being able to die like a hero in this lifetime is all because he could accompany the heir to the Eastern Land, becoming a heavenly driver. I still dream of that day when we rode our tall steeds into Nanhuaicheng, with so many people lining the streets to welcome us, so many flags, weapons, and so many nobles dressed in silk and satin standing beneath our horses. It was truly magnificent. Halazha's blood-stained face broke into a smile. I still dream of that day when we rode our tall steeds into Nanhuaicheng, with so many people lining the streets to welcome us, so many flags, weapons, and so many nobles dressed in silk and satin standing beneath our horses. It was truly magnificent. Halazha's blood-stained face broke into a smile.
Bu Hualuo sat in his tent, gently stroking the string of his new bow, waiting for that sound. He had made all the preparations, donned his armor, fed the translucent bone dragon left by Mu Li with ample fodder, inserted the wolf fang knife left by Mu Li into his sheath, filled the quiver passed down from his father with armor-piercing arrows, tightened the string of a newly selected good bow, and applied oil to it. He was ready to charge onto the battlefield at any moment, just waiting for the sound of the Kui drum.
He lowered his head and silently gazed at his feet, where the footprints surrounding the golden wolf flag formed a perfect totem. He breathed slowly, and the totem flickered faintly, gradually aligning with the rhythm of his breath
I am from Qingyang, but for the belief in Tianqu, I persuaded Danayan to hold the Northern Capital firmly, resulting in so many deaths. I do not know if this counts as betraying my own people. I also know that Danayan is very hesitant in his heart; going to war is indeed difficult for you... Therefore, before coming here, I had already made up my mind that even if I die, I must carve out a path for Danayan to advance... Finally, I have achieved it..." His throat trembled, and he spoke solely with his vocal cords, "I am not as capable as Danayan... There is only so much I can do..."
Asule could not speak, he could only nod vigorously
In the moment when Asule swiftly maneuvered his horse, he turned the Shadow Moon to his left hand, while his right hand seized a Northman warrior who was unable to evade in time, forcefully throwing him aside. After a brief cry of anguish, the Northman vanished beneath the iron hooves of the Flying Tiger cavalry. Asule felt a slight pang of compassion in his heart, and then, startled, he pulled on the reins of his horse.
The left and right flanks simultaneously collided with the cavalry from the northern region, as the men roared and brandished their swords amidst the splashing snow dust
Asu Le saw that the helmet of the Ninth King in the ranks had disappeared, his hair disheveled, howling as he wielded his sword. He harbored a grudge against this uncle, for it was he who had annihilated the entire Zhenyan clan. But at this moment, he finally understood why this man was called "The Bow of Qingyang"; he too had once fought like an ordinary warrior, exchanging his life for achievements, swinging his sword to kill.
This is a sharp arrow aimed at two eagles, already released and not turning back!
This was within Asule's expectations; the higher ground of Huduluhan could easily detect the changes in the formation. It was not difficult for them to guess that the cavalry on the flanks was more elite, while the training of the central army lagged far behind, which was precisely the weakness of the Qingyang army
We cannot stop, Asule brandished his long knife in a feigned strike, "We are not far from the Golden King and the Wolf Lord, we cannot stop here. The Ninth King is right, there is no path for us behind."
"No ambush has been discovered nearby," the scout reported to Asule, "but the cavalry of the Shuo Bei people has already caught up from behind!"
Ten thousand pairs of eyes are watching the mountain and the azure sky, this is a gaze of ten thousand, the gaze of the mountain and the azure sky is calm and serene
Everything aligns with Xiyan's assertions during the formation lecture in the third year of Emperor Cheng's reign. This deliberately exposed weakness will undoubtedly attract the enemy's flanking maneuvers during cavalry confrontations. Xiyan had also speculated about the wolf cavalry he had only heard of but never seen. While Asule was unaware of whether this wolf-riding army truly existed on the grasslands, Xiyan asserted that they could not be used as a force for direct confrontation, as they were too precious to sustain losses. Moreover, those giant wolves, carrying riders, lacked the endurance for prolonged battles, thus they would inevitably be employed as surprise troops.
Buhala jumped onto his horse to observe the distance, counting the black shadows one by one. A wave of indescribable unease surged within him; Asule was not wrong. In the past, there were at most a hundred wolves outside the city feasting on corpses, but now the shadows wandering there numbered at least two to three hundred, and they were still increasing. Dawn had arrived, the sky was a dark white while the grassland remained pitch black, and the horizon gradually became as sharp as a blade. Buhala watched with his own eyes as one wolf after another leaped onto the horizon, joining the pack that was devouring the corpses. When he estimated that the number of wolves had exceeded five hundred, he realized that something was wrong. Dawn had arrived, the sky was a dark white while the grassland remained pitch black, and the horizon gradually became as sharp as a blade. Buhala watched with his own eyes as one wolf after another leaped onto the horizon, joining the pack that was devouring the corpses. When he estimated that the number of wolves had exceeded five hundred, he realized that something was wrong
Asule held Halazha, feeling that he was truly dead, and then softly said, "Still here."
Shan Bikun completed yet another meditation, taking a deep breath, and once again waved his sleeve. The Well of Yang Hao erupted once more, and the searing power melted all the snow within a radius of one mile. Hot water gathered into a small stream, flowing continuously and revealing the frozen soil beneath.
The Flying Tiger Camp cavalry has already engaged in direct confrontation with the White Wolf Brigade ahead. The warhorses have been deprived of their sight and smell, charging recklessly into the wolf pack under the lash. However, compared to the wolf cavalry, they are still too weak. The charging wolves leap into the air, pouncing down to crush the horse heads directly. The wolf cavalry employs chain-linked iron axes and massive cleavers to strike, leaving the Flying Tiger Camp cavalry at a disadvantage. If this continues, they will be completely devoured by the White Wolf Brigade, let alone clearing a path for the Ghost Bow.
The flanks supported by morale could not hold out for long after losing more than half of their forces. Asuler glanced at his three companions, Baru, Bazha, and Halazha, who all nodded at him simultaneously
Isn't it going to beat the drum?" Bu Hualu stood up
He silently stood up, gazing at the battlefield strewn with corpses, feeling exhausted, a powerful bitterness surging in his nostrils. His head throbbed painfully, as if it were about to split open, and his heart felt empty, like a drum that could produce a sound with a thud. He involuntarily thought again of the schools of herring migrating to spawn, of the boy who had been beheaded by his kin, of the warriors in the Flying Tiger Tent moving between pillars of fire, the flames boiling their blood, as they were torn to pieces by overwhelming force. This world truly is a battlefield, just as his grandfather, King Qindahan, had said. He could not help but think again of the schools of herring migrating to spawn, of the boy who had been beheaded by his kin, of the warriors in the Flying Tiger Tent moving between pillars of fire, the flames boiling their blood, as they were torn to pieces by overwhelming force. This world truly is a battlefield, just as his grandfather, King Qindahan, had said. One day, all his friends would die, just like Halazha, for they were too weak in this battlefield-like world, unable to grasp their own lives, let alone protect others.
The purple-black dragon steed walked up to him and stopped, while Asule, clad in armor, exchanged a glance with Buhala.
There were no longer any obstacles between him and the Golden Wolf Flag. At this moment, he realized that there was no one standing under his banner, neither Huduluhan nor any other person from the North, but only one person, an old man.
Asule lowered his head and remained silent for a long time
Asule slightly nodded, then furrowed his brow, "It's a bit strange... why do I feel that there are significantly more wolves coming to eat the corpses today than usual?"
However, he did not speak out; he knew that at this moment, all words were futile. When hatred and blood blind people's eyes, they cannot hear anything.
Everyone fell silent, exchanging glances filled with speculation towards one another
"Archers!" Asule commanded, "Shoot that man! I want to sever the Golden Wolf Banner!"
"Depart!" commanded Asule.
Burn, Well of Yanghao! Shan Bikuang completed his meditation and waved his sleeve at the encroaching crescent formation
Gui Mu sensed that his elder brother was in a bad mood, and he placed a hand on Xu Da's shoulder, saying, "If you were to lead the troops, this battle could be fought just as beautifully, if not... even more beautifully"
The Flying Tiger cavalry penetrated the weak defenses in the northern region of Shuo, and when they completely broke through the blockade of the northern cavalry, a cheer erupted throughout the entire unit
Bukhara took a deep breath, not wanting to dwell on those sorrowful scenes before the final battle
As the two brothers rose in terror, they discovered that the Flying Tiger warriors who had approached with them were silently sitting on their horses, motionless, like sculptures. From their waists to their knees, they were completely charred, and the horses were the same, their necks entirely blackened, as if a layer of black paint had been brushed over both man and horse by the scorching wind. Subsequently, the charred parts shattered and collapsed; the horse's head fell off, and the upper halves of the men also dropped down. A torrent of blood splattered around them, as if bags filled with blood had burst open, the blood nearly boiling, bubbling and gurgling, splattering onto the snow, with steam rising. Soon after, the charred parts shattered and collapsed; the horse's head fell off, and the upper halves of the men also dropped down. A torrent of blood splattered around them, as if bags filled with blood had burst open, the blood nearly boiling, bubbling and gurgling, splattering onto the snow, with steam rising.
His sighs were drowned out by the high-pitched cries of battle from outside the city
He used his last ounce of strength to say, "The ironclad... is still..."
Asule's heart was filled with excitement; he had taken the first step towards success. He gazed up at the sky, thinking of the man in the Southern Huai prison, recalling his every frown and smile, his playful banter, yet inadvertently planting his most precious knowledge in the hearts of Asule and Ji Ye. He looked forward to those seeds sprouting and growing, anticipating that his students would become heroes
Halleza struggled to open his eyes, "Danyan, I am about to die... You must defend the Northern Capital... The general is still waiting for you in the Eastern Land."
"There is no time left," Asule pointed to the northern city gate behind them, "We have an army of at least 30,000 people outside the city, all of whom must pass through that gate. Even if we start retreating right now, it will take a long time to get everyone back into the city. Before the majority of us have entered, the White Wolf Brigade will come charging from behind us. If those of us at the rear cannot hold off the White Wolf Brigade, the wolf pack will follow the retreating people into the Northern Capital... What will happen if the wolves enter the Northern Capital?" Before the majority of us have entered, the White Wolf Brigade will come charging from behind us. If those of us at the rear cannot hold off the White Wolf Brigade, the wolf pack will follow the retreating people into the Northern Capital... What will happen if the wolves enter the Northern Capital?
Asule knew that there was one last way to pave a path for Bukhara, but it would come at a heavy cost. However, he no longer cared; no price was too great compared to what Halazha and those fallen Flying Tiger warriors had already paid.
Baza was the first to react, kicking his brother in the waist, causing him to fall off the warhorse. At the same time, he himself flipped off the saddle and then pounced on his brother, forcefully pressing his head into the snow. He heard a sound above him like a hurricane sweeping through, accompanied by a heat wave reminiscent of midsummer, as if the hot wind carried a red-hot knife, intent on splitting open the back of his head
All troops, advance! Asule raised his sword, "Kill him! At all costs!"
Halleza blocked the horse in front of Asule, "Danyan, that is... the priest of the Chen month!"
He commanded the left and right flanks, preparing to "break the arrows"! He issued orders to the Tiger and Leopard Cavalry, simultaneously taking out the golden command token with the flying tiger pattern that Bi Mogan had given him, raising it high above his head, "Flying Tiger Camp! Prepare to charge!"
The Ninth King Eru rode swiftly, shouting, "Retreat! Retreat! We cannot attack! They are already prepared; they know the timing of our assault!"
Asule was positioned in the center of the cavalry, estimating that the distance between him and the Golden Wolf Flag was only one and a half miles.
The old man, who closely resembles the national master Lei Bicheng, is in the mountains with a clear blue sky.
Bach, Bahang, and Mu Haiyang rode in on horseback, and the generals of the Qingyang faction had already understood their current predicament. They did not need to speak; they communicated with anxious glances, and then all turned to look at Asule.
The distant cries of battle were swept up into the high sky by the wind, only to be pressed down from above. The high ground he occupied resembled the beach of a sea of death, where the waters were composed of the blood and wails of the dead. It surged with towering waves, sweeping towards him, threatening to engulf him. He was already quite old, having witnessed countless people perish, and standing in the center of the battlefield did not evoke sadness in him, yet he always felt a profound weariness
He gazed at the precious wood, "Can you tell what I am thinking from my eyes?"
Demon ... ... Monster! Hallerza roared, "Demon!"
"Brother, Asule is indeed formidable!" Guimu tightly gripped the hilt of the "Lion's Tooth" at his waist, his eyes filled with an impulse to charge into battle himself.
Hudu Luhan immediately stood under his battle flag, watching the Qingyang Army in red not far away, rapidly tearing through the formation of the Shuo Bei Army and advancing towards him
There is approximately one hour until dawn, and it is speculated that the decisive battle will take place at midnight. The exact time of this sortie has not been disclosed to anyone, due to concerns about information leaks. The nobles and generals are tacitly aware that Mu Li's disastrous defeat stemmed from an ambush by the White Wolf Brigade, and that someone with a significant position in Beidu City leaked Mu Li's tactics. Mu Li has been careful to maintain secrecy, issuing various orders only at the last moment before the sortie. Those who can accurately know the final battleground are not ordinary individuals.
Asu Le turned around, and most of the Shuo Bei cavalry brigade from the rear army of the Bahu had already abandoned the encirclement, their warhorses galloping at full speed to reinforce the main formation. The opposing force numbered as many as 20,000, and in their bloodlust, the chances of victory for the Flying Tiger Camp were slim. Meanwhile, the blocked front army of the Qingyang faction was exerting all their efforts to converge towards the Flying Tiger Camp. The iron cavalry on the left and right flanks enveloped a thousand individuals who had not yet made a move, those were the one thousand of the Bukhara, covered in a layer of grayish-white linen over their black cloaks. From a distance, they appeared to be just ordinary new troops; they did not carry swords but bore 50,000 poisoned arrows.
"Traitor!" the Ninth Prince roared, "For the second time! We have been betrayed!"
"Everyone often speaks of serving Qingyang loyally, yet none have considered that the day of true loyalty would be like this," said the Ninth Prince Qing with an expressionless face. "We, too, have once competed for military achievements on the battlefield, and our past interactions cannot be deemed harmonious. Today, however, we must fight this battle with no way to retreat together. I can only hope that all of you will do your utmost."
At the forefront was Bukhara, leading a cavalry composed of one thousand ghost archers, advancing along the horse path of Beidu City. The entire Beidu City was still in slumber, yet the men had already ridden out from the encampment, striving to maintain silence. The horses' hooves were wrapped in cotton and leather, and both men and horses held their weapons discreetly, avoiding the use of many torches and refraining from greetings. An increasing number of banners gathered, displaying different family crests and colors, as the warriors exchanged glances in salute, progressing towards the northern gate.
Asule grasped the blade with his hand and then drew it out. The Shadow Moon absorbed its master's blood, shining even brighter; this enchanted blade seemed to breathe and pulse as if awakening from a dream. Asule knew that the souls dwelling within the blade were restlessly howling.
Balu and Baza were crawling back on the snow, not daring to raise their bodies or lift their heads, lest they be struck by the deadly hot wind
But he is very simple, Asule is a person with a very simple heart, Xu Dahuan said softly, "You just need to look into his eyes to know what he wants, what he is worried about, and what he is afraid of. Therefore, Bimogan will trust him more.
Buhala nodded slightly, "Where will Danyan be located?"
The wind carried the neighing of a large herd of warhorses to the position of the Northern Cavalry, alerting the Northern warriors. They realized that the Qingyang forces had not lost their fighting spirit. The formation of the Qingyang troops tightened closely, with thirty thousand warhorses charging in unison. The left flank was occupied by the Tiger and Leopard Cavalry, renowned as the strongest cavalry on the plains, and no enemy could afford to be careless. The swirling circular formation of the Northern army came to a halt, and a gap opened up in the formation, aimed directly at the rapidly approaching spearhead of the Qingyang army, resembling a giant mouth ready to swallow it whole
Sang Duluha had long been waiting for this command; he hoisted Shan Bikun onto his shoulder, raised the great flag with one hand, and retreated like a galloping horse. As Asule watched his flag-bearing silhouette, he knew he could no longer catch up. On this battlefield, they had left behind thousands of corpses, yet they had failed to sever a single flagpole. He rushed over to embrace Halazha, examining his wounds, but it was all in vain; in that moment, Shan Bikun's hand transformed into the blade of divine judgment, destroying Halazha's internal organs completely.
Baru nodded and said, "Do not light too many torches; it is sufficient to see clearly"
Balu and Baza simultaneously felt the tremor of the ground, which was different from the onslaught of the burning wind, carrying with it tenfold ferocity. Snow and dust soared into the sky, with the crystalline snow enveloped in blazing flames, as if deep within the earth lay a sealed furnace. Only the deep well reached that place, where the long-suppressed firelight surged upward, straight as a sword. This well that belched flames blossomed on the snowy ground, with each burst of flame resembling a breath, accompanied by a thunderous roar.
Bu Hualan fell silent for a moment, "Danyan, even if you are not afraid of death, there is no need to act this way. You are not an ordinary warrior; you are a descendant of the Pasur family, someone who could have become a great lord."
The circular formation transforms into a crescent formation, Asule thought to himself. There are also those among the enemy forces who understand the Eastern land battle formations
He raised his head and exhaled towards the dark sky, "Ji Ye said that I always lack confidence and feel that I am of no use. Having this opportunity makes me feel useful, and I am very happy about it"
Kill him! The men of the Flying Tiger Camp shouted, urging their horses forward without evasion. They all understood Asule's meaning; the secret technique was terrifying to them, yet it was no different from a dense rain of arrows like a swarm of locusts. They had all been trained to charge into the rain of arrows, never knowing when a projectile would strike them, much like never knowing when flames would erupt beneath their feet
"The enemy troops are about to advance..." The guard warrior was perplexed
The army arrived outside the northern gate, deployed in their respective positions under the command of Baru and Baza. The people of Bukhara had never seen such a complex formation of the steppe people; every detail seemed to be imbued with profound meaning. He widened his eyes, striving to comprehend something from it, but his mind was a chaotic mess, as if trying to untangle a knotted ball of thread with a rough warrior's hand, leaving him at a loss.
The feathered arrow let out a sharp whistle in the air, and Shan Bikong's hand exerted a slight force, causing the golden wolf flag to tremble. A sound, akin to waves crashing against rocks, completely drowned out the whistle of the feathered arrow. The cavalry of the Flying Tiger Camp felt as if an illusion appeared before them; at the moment Shan Bikong struck the flagpole, a flash of flame-colored light extinguished, and a wave-like pulse radiated outward from the flagpole in all directions.
Almost simultaneously with the front line of the vanguard breaching the northern positions of Shuo, the flanks of Shuo's northern forces executed a cross-cut, severing the "arrow" from the middle of the "arrow shaft." The new army was dispersed after only slight resistance, the "arrow" was broken, and they were surrounded from both front and rear. Bach, who remained in the rear as a mobile force, advanced with the cavalry of the Mosul family, taking the place of the new army and engaging in fierce combat with the northern forces of Shuo. He had to hold out for at least half a period of time, as this was the duration required by Asule. The vanguard was also surrounded, with the numerically superior northern forces of Shuo surging in from all directions.
"This is the sin of the world," Shan Bikong said in his heart, "it is not human."
Dozens of arrows were released simultaneously, and the cavalry of the Flying Tiger Camp immediately drew their bows and unsheathed their swords, preparing to charge. No one could escape under such a volley of arrows, unless they were made of iron.
He suddenly drew the Shadowmoon, the long sword pointing diagonally at the sky ahead, "Advance! Flatten them! This is the day we avenge Qingyang!"
The cavalry led by Halezha suffered significant losses, with nearly thirty percent being shattered and burned by the flames that erupted from beneath them at the very first moment of the attack on Yanghao Well. The warriors of the Flying Tiger Camp were on guard against the burning wind, having freed themselves from the stirrups, relying solely on their legs to grip the horses' bellies as they galloped, ready to roll off the saddles at any moment. However, when they saw Shan Bixiong waving his sleeves, they immediately rolled off the saddles, only to realize that flames were surging up from below. The warhorses, unable to comprehend the force they faced, panicked and whinnied in fear, scattering in all directions. They relied solely on their legs to grip the horses' bellies as they galloped, ready to roll off the saddles at any moment. However, when they saw Shan Bixiong waving his sleeves, they immediately rolled off the saddles, only to realize that flames were surging up from below. The warhorses, unable to comprehend the force they faced, panicked and whinnied in fear, scattering in all directions.
"Danyan! Retreat! We cannot engage in battle at this moment!" Not far behind, Bukhara turned to look at the soon-to-be-formed phalanx of arrows, "What is wrong? There are too many wolves!"
The White Wolf Brigade has mobilized! The scout's finger trembled as it pointed forward
In the distance, the mountains are green against the sky, and I slowly raise my eyes to look at those fierce and gleaming arrowheads
My teacher said, "A true general never stays behind the lines, for if one is not in the most intense part of the battle, one cannot smell the blood on the battlefield or see individuals fall, and thus cannot understand the battlefield; the orders given would be unreliable." Asule said, "If Ji Ye knew that I was sitting in the city giving commands, he would laugh at me."
Asule lowered his head and smiled, "A person like me, becoming a great lord, wouldn't that harm many people? I am not afraid of death, but as someone so young and inexperienced, if I am not in that position, what reason do I have to make everyone believe in me? I need everyone to trust me; if there are doubts in their hearts, our hopes will be lost."
"You are an extraordinary celestial driver," said Asule.
Asule could not hear clearly what he was saying, but he understood his meaning. On this battlefield, each of them had their own position, and perhaps in the next moment, they would perish, so there was no time to feel sorrow for their comrades
"General, you must survive, wait for my return!" Asule said silently
Bu Hualashun followed his finger with his gaze, a wave of coldness surged within him, choking his throat. Before him stood a shadow taller, grander, and more imposing than any other giant wolf, advancing upon the horizon with a regal demeanor. It moved slowly yet powerfully, each step scattering the snowflakes around it, its body trembling in the wind, its long mane flowing like a battle flag. Behind it, a red sun was rising gradually, and upon its back sat a dark figure, faintly visible, holding a formidable axe in hand. This was a shadow taller, grander, and more imposing than any other giant wolf, advancing upon the horizon with a regal demeanor. It moved slowly yet powerfully, each step scattering the snowflakes around it, its body trembling in the wind, its long mane flowing like a battle flag. Behind it, a red sun was rising gradually, and upon its back sat a dark figure, faintly visible, holding a formidable axe in hand.
"Danyan, the main force of the enemy has caught up!" The scout urgently reported to Asule's horse.
"Kill Meng Lehuo! Kill him!" The Ninth Prince pulled out his battle knife from the heart of an enemy, roaring towards the direction of the Flying Tiger Tent, and then pounced on the next enemy.
"Follow me! Kill that demon!" Without waiting for Asule to respond, he shouted as he spurred his horse forward, charging out. The several hundred cavalrymen of the Flying Tiger Camp, momentarily taken aback, quickly followed behind this warrior, spreading out into a half-moon formation.
He needs to clear the way for the non-flower thorn, he must kill this mountain blue sky, and preemptively suppress the cavalry coming from both flanks
Absolutely reliable, after the Battle of the Tainal River, we had an excellent scout hidden in the snow who tracked the retreating Northerners and located their camp. For the past few days, we have been sending people to monitor them quietly
He cannot allow himself to be obstructed on the path to success by a mere individual. If he does not succeed and does not eliminate this person, tens of thousands of lives will be lost in the city of Beidu!
A massive figure ascended from the lowland to the high ground, standing beside the azure sky of the mountain. He bore a gigantic bow and arrow, akin to a bed crossbow, and drew the bow, nocking three enormous arrows onto the string at once
He was not prepared to say anything to comfort his subordinates. Among this makeshift army, there were as many as 10,000 young men hastily selected from slaves and commoners, all positioned in the center. For those who were going into battle for the first time, no words could alleviate their stress, and no shouts about honor and responsibility could make them forget their fear. When the battle began, they would face the most brutal slaughter, and the center would be cut down mercilessly. This was a crucial part of the "Shattered Arrows" formation. No shouts about honor and responsibility could make them forget their fear. When the battle began, they would face the most brutal slaughter, and the center would be cut down mercilessly. This was a crucial part of the "Shattered Arrows" formation
A cavalryman from the Tiger and Leopard Riders galloped up to him and said, "Danyan, the losses on both flanks have exceeded half!"
Indeed, standing on the city wall and looking down, he is somewhat different from before. Xu Dahuan said lightly, and then he let out a low sigh
"One of my good friends is the guy who came to rescue me from the execution ground," Asule smiled.
I can temporarily withdraw, but my flag cannot be taken down. " Huduluhan patted the flagpole, "From this battle onward, I will plant my flag southward in every battle, all the way to... the southernmost point of the Eastern Continent!
Buhala felt invigorated as he touched the dangerous armor-piercing arrows in his quiver, which were like venomous snakes. He sensed hope in this silent march; they were now like stealthy assassins. When the Shuo Bei people realized they were about to launch an attack, they would surely be taken by surprise and caught off guard
Worried about information leakage
The three of them looked into the distance, where a large flag had appeared. Under the golden wolf flag of Huduluhan, the cavalry from the northern region were gathering. The magnificent Xuelingge warhorses were trotting around the golden wolf flag, and this circular formation of cavalry gradually transformed from hundreds of men into tens of thousands. The warriors galloped and shouted, in stark contrast to the nearby White Wolf Brigade, which stood silent like cast iron.
The emperor of the wolves stood firm, raising its head to let out a roar towards the rising sun. All the wolves gathered around it, joining in the howl. The Qingyang warriors in the formation were taken aback, as the sound of the wolf howls surged like a tidal wave, as if it were about to engulf them
Before nightfall, the Grand Duke suddenly sent someone to reward the Ghost Archers with 1,500 sheep and 200 jars of ancient Qurchin liquor. The aroma of mutton and strong liquor is now wafting through this tent. Buhala knows the reason for this, as the chances of them returning alive are slim. Over the past two days, he has been constantly envisioning the final moment of that tactic in his mind. The left flank's Tiger and Leopard Cavalry suddenly collapsed, and at the most proud and arrogant moment of the White Wolf Brigade, a thousand black-clad archers surged forth from the disintegrating left flank, directly targeting the heart of the White Wolf Brigade, the position where Mengle Huo'er is located, with armor-piercing arrows resembling a low-flying swarm of locusts. The enemy will retaliate with bows and spinning iron axes, and one by one, his brothers of many years will fall from their horses. They are like an iron arrow, striking against the hard armor, continuously drilling in, continuously wearing down, and all that is needed is to penetrate that armor before the arrowhead is completely worn down, which would mean victory.
The tent flap was lifted by someone, and a figure slipped in, "General Bukhara, please take your ghost bow and assemble the troops at the north city gate."
This bizarre scene left the cavalry of the Flying Tiger Camp feeling uneasy, and they all pulled their warhorses to a stop, standing at a distance of over 200 paces from the mountain and the clear sky. For such a large cavalry force, coming to a halt was quite difficult, and the cavalrymen were breathing heavily as they awaited Asule's command
In this tumultuous world, there are always reasons that compel men to raise their swords and engage in battle; they roar, they slash, they wail
A surge occurred merely two zhang away from the Iron Brothers, with shockwaves swirling and snow blocks striking Baloo's back. Despite the iron armor, Baloo still spat out a mouthful of blood. He desperately clutched his brother, pressing him tightly into the snow layer, using his body to shield him from above
"In fact, I have never liked Mu Li," the Ninth Prince sighed softly, "but now I really wish he were among us."
Ji Ye
Asule gazed to the north, assessing the distance between himself and the two banners of the Golden and White Night, the banners of the Azure Wolves. In front of him stood the Northern cavalry, numbering fifteen thousand, whom he needed to break through. He had promised to cut down the Golden Azure Wolf banner for Bula, which would also trigger the charge of the White Wolf regiment. His hand gripping the knife felt hot, and his heart raced amidst the roar of the army.
The crescent formation in the northern part of Shu is changing, with the crescent shapes extending rapidly forward on both the left and right sides, growing larger and larger. Tens of thousands of cavalry units are rising from the left and right flanks, clearly forming an encirclement.
Bimo Gan led the nobles to storm the city walls of the Northern Capital. They were also unaware of the specific time of the battle, having been awakened from their dreams in the early morning by the thunderous sounds of shouting and killing from outside the city.
Asule shook his head, "I do not know"
The two well-trained armies, the Tiger and Leopard Riders and the Ghost Archers, remained calm, yet a subtle unease stirred within the central army, with whispers and murmurs incessantly filling the air
Asule has learned something remarkable in the Eastern Continent!" Bimo Gan exclaimed. He could clearly see the left and right flanks of the vanguard still advancing under the heavy pressure of the Shuo Bei people. The Tiger and Leopard Cavalry, eager to redeem their honor, chose to send their elite into battle. Each soldier was as fierce as a tiger, and these proud cavalrymen did not truly care about dying on the battlefield; what mattered more to them was their reputation. The previous retreat in the face of the White Wolf Regiment had left these fierce men unable to hold their heads high in front of their families.
Danyan also personally went into battle, said Bukhara.
It is! Everyone answered in unison
"Yes, what Asule is about to do is truly remarkable!" Bimogan squinted slightly, "If the traitor we suspect really exists, then he is among us. Now he knows our intentions but has no opportunity to inform Menglehuo'er!"
Hundreds and thousands of wolves rushed up the high ground, merging with the pack that had previously been gnawing on corpses. Following the wolves were men wielding battle axes and great swords, each mounting the backs of the wolves one after another. The first man to appear forcefully planted a broken banner into the snow, the flagpole sinking in partially, as the wolf-riding men gathered beneath that banner
This is the moment when the Well of Yang Hao temporarily comes to a halt, snowflakes falling. Three miles behind the Golden Canglang Flag, the White Night Canglang Flag begins to advance towards them, surrounded by the entire White Wolf Regiment, with their leader Meng Le Huo Er certainly among them. The White Wolf Regiment can no longer hold back their attack; the most difficult situation and the best opportunity have arrived simultaneously. As long as the Bula can break through the crowd before the main cavalry of the Shuo North encircles them, they will have the chance to kill Meng Le Huo Er