The Bodyguard King’s CEO Wife Chapter 1565: Lord

"Our casualties were heavy, so our top priority now is to recruit soldiers, intensify training, and make preparations for the major battles that lie ahead." Ye Shikai was acutely aware that the Emperor's demise was imminent, which would plunge the world into true chaos. At that point, their adversaries would no longer be limited to the Qin Army.

"I wish to remind everyone that we are no longer part of the Qin Army; this is Mi Wen's territory. We have come here seeking refuge with her, which means... we are residing under someone else's roof. Therefore, our actions cannot be too conspicuous. Furthermore, I have stated numerous times that bullying the common populace is strictly forbidden. Any individual who dares to do so, regardless of their rank, will face military law and receive no mercy." Ye Shikai issued this warning, as he believed that no matter the location, oppressing civilians was against his core principles and non-negotiable boundaries.

"Yes, sir, we understand."

"Additionally, our weapons, armor, and provisions have been almost entirely depleted and lost; they must be replenished with haste."

"General, I... have a question."

"Proceed."

"General, previously, the weapons and provisions our camp required were supplied by the Commander's Mansion, so we never had to worry. However, now that we have risen against Qin, all logistical support has been severed. Recruiting troops, acquiring weapons and armor, and gathering provisions all demand significant logistical backing, but we are currently..."

"This..." Ye Shikai fell into deep thought. It was indeed difficult to bake a cake without flour. In this era of turmoil, without funds and supplies, gathering an army was a daunting task. To achieve great undertakings, one cannot rely solely on wealth and resources, yet conversely, without them, accomplishing great deeds is also impossible.

"When we initiated the uprising, we still had some funds on hand, which can be utilized for immediate necessities. As for the rest, I will confer with Mi Wen." Ye Shikai felt a sense of helplessness. Living under another's patronage, without a single piece of land to call their own, and facing obstacles at every turn, this situation was truly disquieting.

"Understood."

After the troops had assembled, Ye Shikai meticulously counted the remaining soldiers, barely numbering seven thousand. If they intended to expand their forces, Mi Wen's support would be indispensable.

"Reporting, General Huo Ziqing has arrived, accompanied by numerous carts laden with provisions and munitions." At that moment, a guard entered to deliver the news.

"That is excellent news."

Ye Shikai, along with his generals, went out to greet Huo Ziqing, who had arrived precisely when needed.

"General Ye, we meet again."

"General Huo."

"These supplies have been allocated to you by our Lord; they are sufficient for seven thousand men. Additionally, our Lord heard that there are many wounded soldiers in General Ye's camp and has specially dispatched some potent medicinal remedies."

"Thank you," Ye Shikai expressed with a bow.

"General Ye, since you have now allied with our Lord, we are considered comrades-in-arms. I have long heard that General Ye's troops are renowned for their bravery and skill, having fought their way from East County to Southern County, truly living up to their formidable reputation."

"Should I face difficulties in the future, I would be grateful for General Huo's assistance."

"Without a doubt."

"I have prepared fine wine within the tent. Would General Huo care to partake in a few drinks?" Ye Shikai extended the invitation.

"Since General Ye extends such a warm invitation, I must accept courteously rather than refuse."

...................................

Evening.

Military encampment.

"Sir, you appear quite troubled. Is something weighing on your mind?" Man Cang entered the tent and found Ye Shikai seated, emitting a sigh.

"Is it concerning General Shangguan?" Man Cang inquired further.

"Yes, you are correct. Although I have dispatched Xue San to investigate, I remain uneasy." So many days had passed; if Shangguan Jian were safe, he should have reached Southern County by now.

"You worry excessively, sir. General Shangguan is also a seasoned warrior; even if he encounters adversity, he must possess a method to overcome it."

"And another matter: today, Huo Ziqing delivered provisions and equipment, but it is merely enough for seven thousand men."

"Sir, I fail to grasp your meaning."

"This reflects Mi Wen's intentions. She seems to be deliberately hindering our army's expansion," Ye Shikai mused. He was not an ungrateful person who would betray those who aided him. He was simply perplexed as to why Mi Wen would act this way. Could it be a lack of trust? That seemed unlikely. If Mi Wen harbored distrust, why had she eagerly sent troops to welcome him?

"Why would she do that?"

"I’m not entirely sure myself." Ye Shikai shook his head. Ever since Mi Wen returned to the Chu Territory and initiated her rebellion, she seemed to have transformed into an entirely different person. Ye Shikai found her current demeanor rather perplexing; perhaps, this was the indispensable demeanor of a 'lord.'

"Regardless, we still possess seven thousand men. Although Mi Wen currently controls several counties, it’s not a simple feat to generate such extensive resources instantaneously," Ye Shikai remarked casually, and Man Cang did not harbor any suspicion.

"In a few days, I intend to seek clarity directly from Mi Wen."

"Understood."

The following day.

"Did you summon me with such haste because there is something of great importance?" Ye Shikai arrived at Mi Wen’s estate, his pace somewhat accelerated, only to find her seated in the garden, leisurely sipping tea.

"It’s nothing significant, really. I simply haven’t seen you in a while and thought we could have a conversation. Are you currently available?" Ye Shikai had intended to voice his concerns but ultimately suppressed them.

"Naturally. Since you are here, I most certainly have the time. Someone, please serve some tea."

The two engaged in conversation for some time, and on numerous occasions, Ye Shikai contemplated broaching the subject of logistical supplies but refrained from doing so. Mi Wen had extended crucial assistance during his most trying period, even furnishing provisions, attire, and necessary supplies for his subordinates—more than sufficient. How could he possibly solicit further?

After deliberating throughout the night, Ye Shikai reached a realization: since he was incapable of 'pleading' with Mi Wen, his sole recourse was to seize the initiative, launch an assault on a court-controlled county, acquire their monetary and silver reserves, and concurrently enlist Qin soldiers.

"In a short while, I am planning to proactively attack Nanyang County..."

"No, I do not concur."

Before Ye Shikai could complete his statement, Mi Wen unequivocally rejected his proposal.

"And pray tell, why is that?"

"Considering the current strength of your troops, how could you possibly contemplate an assault on Nanyang County? To venture forth would be akin to inviting your own demise."

"I possess my own strategies, and you need not concern yourself with such matters." Ye Shikai stood, preparing to depart, when abruptly, a longsword was pressed against his throat.

"What is the meaning of this?" Ye Shikai countered.

"Now that you have sought refuge under my banner, you are naturally bound to adhere to my commands, encompassing your subordinates as well," Mi Wen stated icily. "It appears you have not yet grasped your proper station."

"So, you are in disagreement."

"You and your brethren have only just found stability, and you are already eager to lead them into peril?" Mi Wen’s tone softened, shedding its earlier severity and adopting a more composed demeanor.