Richest Man: Divine-Grade Reconstruct System Chapter 990 - 950: Stalling for Time

Indeed, it's not merely the Minister of Revenue; the common understanding is that if Lin Yi secures the throne, Leng Yu will undoubtedly ascend to become one of the most influential figures in Dayou. Furthermore, there's a distinct possibility that Leng Yu's esteemed position as Grand General might eventually be exchanged for the even more prestigious title of Empress after some time has passed. Though Lin Yi may not have intended such a trajectory, this perception is widely held. After all, within the current landscape of the Dayou Country, Lin Yi is the first to forge a close connection with this woman and the first to entrust her with significant authority. It is crucial to remember that, historically, female officials have been exceedingly rare, almost to the point of non-existence. Consider, then, a woman holding the rank of Grand General – a position entirely unprecedented. Had Lin Yi not recently ascended to the throne and deposed Prince You, thereby silencing immediate opposition, appointing a woman to such a high military command would have been exceedingly difficult, even over many years of rule. However, given the current climate, individuals perceive Lin Yi's intentions as inscrutable and hesitate to provoke him, fearing swift retribution for any perceived displeasure. Otherwise, who would readily consent to such an appointment? It's quite possible that Leng Yu wouldn't even be present in this capacity otherwise. It is precisely owing to Lin Yi's decisive actions that such a monumental shift has occurred within Dayou and, indeed, in the prevailing societal norms. The populace's understanding has broadened, recognizing that women are capable of serving in official capacities. Of course, these are considerations for the future. At this precise moment, in response to the Minister of Revenue's inquiry, Leng Yu offers a slight chuckle before commencing her explanation.

"Hehe, Minister Wu touched upon this matter earlier. Initially, Minister Wu noted that with a garrison of 200,000 troops, the opposing force would likely refrain from attacking this location. Even if they were to proceed with an assault, it is improbable that they could overwhelm a city defended by such a considerable number of soldiers. However, what I wish to emphasize is that we must not overlook the true nature of the enemy's stratagem; everyone is undoubtedly aware of their current objectives. If my assessment holds true, the ten cities serve as a deliberate diversion. The substantial number of soldiers allocated to the attack on each of these cities is designed to mislead us. This deployment, representing what appears to be the entirety of the Yan Country's military might, aims to influence our response. Knowing that they have committed all their forces to attacking ten cities, will we simply stand by and observe their offensive, or will we dispatch our own troops to provide support? The underlying assumption they wish us to accept is that they possess no other tactical reserves beyond these attacking forces. Understanding this, I believe we would be compelled to act, especially since the garrison in those areas is unlikely to withstand the onslaught for an extended period. If they truly coordinate a combined assault, our potential losses would escalate significantly. Under such circumstances, it is almost inevitable that we would divert a portion of our 200,000 troops for reinforcement. The nature of these reinforcements might vary – perhaps a significant contingent, or smaller detachments deployed strategically. Nevertheless, one fact remains certain: troops will indeed be dispatched. This action, however, will inevitably weaken our defensive capabilities. Should the Zhao Country choose this opportune moment to launch a full-scale invasion, would we stand any chance of mounting a successful resistance? If an army of 100,000 were to target our city, defended by a mere ten or twenty thousand guards, could our defenses possibly hold?"

This series of probing questions left all those present in a state of stunned contemplation. Inwardly, they marveled at Leng Yu's keen analysis while simultaneously acknowledging the grim logic of her conclusions. Just as Leng Yu had elucidated, the enemy's intentions could very well align with her hypothesis. If they were to commit their entire 200,000-strong force as reinforcements, what defensive capacity would remain for their own capital? The prospect of relying on the nominal strength of the Imperial Guard to repel tens of thousands of enemy soldiers seemed like a desperate fantasy. Even if all available garrison troops from surrounding cities were consolidated, it would scarcely alter the outcome. Furthermore, such a redeployment would inevitably lead to the fall of all neighboring cities into enemy hands. This, in turn, could allow the Zhao Country to execute a strategic maneuver, encircling the Capital City. At that juncture, escape would be impossible; not even the smallest insect would be able to depart the Capital. Under such dire conditions, what hope would there be for victory? By the time any military response could be formulated, it would undoubtedly be far too late. Despite many grasping the severity of this potential outcome, a palpable reluctance to accept it lingered.

Consequently, the Minister of Revenue, after a moment's pause, posed another question to Leng Yu: "General Leng's analysis is indeed highly persuasive, yet one point remains unclear to me: why has the opposing force not yet initiated any overt action? Moreover, if we choose not to dispatch reinforcements, what would be their subsequent move? If our 200,000 troops remain stationed around the Capital City, are we simply to await their advance?"

Upon hearing this, Leng Yu responded with a nod, saying, "Precisely, if our 200,000 troops maintain their fortified positions within the Capital City, their strategy would indeed be one of patient waiting. Consider the current situation as a prime example."