The Bodyguard King’s CEO Wife Chapter 1578: Strategy

"You are correct, so continue to enlighten us further. Where do you perceive the vulnerabilities of the Qin Army lie?" Mi Wen inquired, an air of satisfaction about her, seemingly pleased with Ye Shikai’s insights.

"Advance westward towards Ba County and Shu County," Ye Shikai stated impassively.

"General Ye, a moment of reconsideration is needed. While it's true that the Qin presence in Ba and Shu Counties is minimal, these regions are predominantly mountainous. This terrain presents significant logistical challenges, and their resources and population pale in comparison to the Central Plains. Despite their vastness, their strategic value is limited," a strategist interjected, stepping forward to challenge the assertion.

"Sir, your perspective lacks foresight. Though the Shu region may not match the prosperity of the Central Plains, it is bestowed by heaven, with fertile lands stretching thousands of miles, rich in resources, and offering an unending supply. Should the Lord secure Shu County, it could serve as a vital rear base," Ye Shikai retorted coldly. In his leisure moments, while immersed in the epic tale of the "Romance of the Three Kingdoms," he had been captivated by the strategic brilliance of the "Longzhong Plan," a scenario he never anticipated would manifest before him now.

"Furthermore, the terrain of Shu County is perilous, its passes heavily fortified, making ingress difficult but simultaneously providing a natural bulwark. This defense ensures that even a solitary guardian can repel a thousand foes, rendering external assaults exceedingly challenging."

The most crucial reason, which Ye Shikai omitted, was that historically, Liu Bang achieved world unification in merely five years by leveraging Shu and Han Zhong alone...

Musing on this, an unsettling feeling washed over Ye Shikai. If Mi Wen were to adopt this strategy, would events unfold as recorded in history, or would deviations arise, causing him to "overreach his grasp"?

"That concludes our discussion for today. You are all dismissed," Mi Wen declared, gesturing with her hand as she rose slowly, her movements possessing a certain languid grace.

In the secluded rear hall.

"You have indeed irked my people today," Mi Wen remarked, personally pouring tea and offering the delicate cup to Ye Shikai.

"I could not refrain, as you insisted I share my thoughts freely," Ye Shikai responded, waving his hand dismissively. In reality, Mi Wen had deliberately allowed him to speak his mind in the open hall, leaving him uncertain of her true intentions.

"Were your pronouncements in the hall mere spontaneous remarks, or had they been meticulously conceived beforehand?" Mi Wen’s demeanor shifted abruptly as she posed the question.

"One could say it was both a genuine reflection of my inner convictions and simply my personal musings."

"Your point holds merit. While Shu may not possess the teeming populace of the Central Plains, the ceaseless conflicts that have plagued the Central Plains over the years have allowed Shu to remain relatively tranquil, likely accumulating substantial resources."

"The crucial factor is that the Qin forces stationed there consist of complacent soldiers, lacking rigorous training and weary from constant combat. Targeting the less experienced ones would be far easier," Ye Shikai quipped, a hint of amusement in his tone.

"It appears you possess a keen understanding of military strategy."

"In truth, I comprehend nothing of it," Ye Shikai declared, bursting into laughter.

"What? How can that be? If you grasp nothing, then how can you articulate your points with such eloquence?" Mi Wen exclaimed in astonishment, regarding him with a gaze full of suspicion.

"It is a secret," Ye Shikai affirmed, having no intention of revealing that his knowledge stemmed from "history." Even if he did, Mi Wen was unlikely to believe it.

"I am your Lord, how dare you conceal matters from me," Mi Wen chided playfully, her slight pout more akin to a bashful complaint from a lover than a reprimand.

"It remains a secret. Besides, among your appointed advisors, a considerable number possess the ability to boast grandly without genuine understanding," Ye Shikai commented, a touch of mockery in his voice. Of course, the presence of a few opportunists did not imply Mi Wen lacked the discernment to utilize her subordinates effectively; such individuals were present in every faction.

"Indeed, some of your generals exhibit commendable qualities, their bold pronouncements suggesting a forthright nature and a fearless attitude towards death. It would be even more advantageous if they were endowed with greater wisdom," Ye Shikai remarked nonchalantly.

"However... I suspect that among your generals, many are cognizant of the current predicament. To commit troops to the Central Plains at this juncture is akin to casting dice in a game of chance."

"Then, if they comprehend the risks, why do they initiate engagements with the Central Plains?"

"As military men, their innate desire is to achieve great deeds, and the battlefield provides the most fertile ground for such aspirations. Consequently, they naturally press for offensive actions, despite the inherent uncertainty of the outcome," Ye Shikai elucidated.

"I comprehend."

"The suggestion to first target Ba County and Shu County holds merit. However, even after conquering Shu, what then? The treacherous roads of Shu make troop mobilization exceedingly difficult. Moreover, you spoke of accumulating strength before countering Qin, but when exactly would this endeavor commence?"

"Mi Wen, you are in your early twenties now. Even if it takes a decade, what of it? Accumulate your strength. Even if the Central Plains remain unconquered, at the very least, you will preserve the territory of Chu."

"Those who are destined for greatness cannot afford to be timid. If in ten years, the Qin Army quells its internal strife, would they not then possess the full might to concentrate their forces against us? It is only amidst turbulent times that dynasties can be overthrown," Mi Wen proclaimed, rising to retort, her ambition and astute strategy laid bare. She was indeed capable of remarkable feats during upheavals, yet the path to becoming "Emperor" still held significant distance.

"In a world at peace, the opportunity for an uprising is nonexistent. However, to deliberately incite chaos solely to alter dynasties is something I would never consent to."

As their debate continued, the tea grew cold, yet the palpable tension in the atmosphere seemed to escalate...

Ye Shikai proposed that they enter Shu to consolidate their strength and observe the world's shifts. While this might appear to be a tactic to "delay" the impending chaos, it would at least guarantee peace for the populace of that region. Conversely, should they choose to attack the Central Plains prematurely and suffer a defeat, Mi Wen would undoubtedly drain Chu’s resources and finances through relentless warfare, plunging the land into perpetual turmoil.

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

The discussions between Ye Shikai and Mi Wen had been far from harmonious. Ever since their arrival in Chu Territory, frequent disagreements had arisen, primarily concerning future strategies and "matters of principle." Many nights, Ye Shikai found himself reminiscing about the early days of their acquaintance. Despite initial misunderstandings, they had forged a friendship, often sharing sentiments over wine and engaging in philosophical discussions over tea—a period when life felt simple and filled with joy. Yet, after assuming the roles of "Monarch and Minister," their relationship had evolved into one marked by increasing confrontation.

Ye Mansion.

"Ling’er, there is something I must impart to you," Ye Shikai thought of Mi Wen’s military directive to advance to Southern County within three months, a feeling of gloom settling upon him. While he sincerely desired to remain by He Linghan’s side, duty called.

Each time he crossed the threshold of his home, a powerful urge would surface within him to "resign his post and return to a life of seclusion," taking He Linghan with him to some remote, idyllic paradise for a tranquil existence, completely detached from external strife and the world's rulers—but this was merely a fleeting impulse. He was acutely aware of the severe repercussions such an action would entail.