is situation. Therefore, during years of disaster, they would always reduce taxes. Even if the imperial court ordered a tax exemption, whether or not it was implemented at the local level, and how it...Chapter 1456: Let Loose and Fight

Rest and recuperation before the decisive battle.

This sentence sent a chill down Li Chen's spine.

He immediately said: "In military matters, I am inferior to the two of you. Therefore, I would like to ask you one question: how confident are you in this guess"

Wu Qingcang replied, "The battlefield situation is constantly changing. Before getting precise intelligence, no one can say for sure what the enemy is thinking. Judging from the Liaoning army's sudden and unusual retreat at present, it is possible that they are preparing for a decisive battle."

This is being quite conservative.

But Li Chen understood the meaning, he said: "No matter what, consider the worst-case scenario and prepare for it. It's always better to be overprepared."

"The two generals must raise their level of vigilance, just in case the Liao army goes all out and engages in a full-scale war."

Wu Qingscang and Wu Ban shan, brothers, simultaneously bowed and said: "The end will obey."

Li Chen asked again, "If the Liao army really begins a decisive battle in the next few days, what is the likelihood that Yueya Pass can be defended"

"Wu Qingscang gritted his teeth and replied: "If it's just the current situation, without considering the Sixteen Riders of Yan Yun joining in, there is no guarantee."

Li Chen furrowed his brows, looking at Wu Qingcang with an unfriendly expression.

This answer left him unsatisfied.

Wu Qingcang, however, seemed to not see Li Chen's unhappy expression and continued, "Your Highness, I, too, would like to assure Your Highness that Moonlit Pass will be absolutely secure. But, my confidence is useless. Warfare depends on the right time, place, and people."

"Now that all three are gone, even if the God of War himself were here, it would be difficult to overcome such a disadvantage."

"The only assurance I can give your Lordship is this: if the gate is closed, those inside will survive; if the gate is breached, they will perish."

Wu Qingcang's determination was clear: to die defending Yueya Pass.

With such fighting spirit, even if Li Chen were to be the most demanding person, he could not ask for more.

"Don't worry about supplies. Although the imperial court is weak, we can still support you in fighting without any worries. The latest batch of reinforcements will arrive very soon."

Upon hearing this, Wu Ban Shan's eyes lit up as he asked, "Your Highness, how many"

“Strategic materials worth eight million taels, including grain, weaponry, and horses, are already on their way.”

Li Chen didn't hesitate to tell them the good news he had just received from Beijing.

This money was raised by the imperial court through issuing national bonds to borrow from the people and merchants across the land. In addition, at least ten million taels of goods will be arriving later, enough to pile into a mountain even if just stacked together.

Li Chen said in a deep voice: "In matters of war, this palace cannot offer much help. You are all seasoned veterans, and you don't need this outsider to give orders. However, this palace can ensure your peace of mind, allowing you to fight without reservation. As for everything else, leave it to this palace to arrange!"

Wu Qingscang and Wu Ban shan, the two brothers, were beaming with joy.

Leading troops into battle, the most feared thing is suspicion from imperial power, and then there's the interference of outsiders in matters they don't understand. That can truly be fatal.

But Li Chen not only didn't have any doubts about them, but also went to great lengths to provide them with everything they needed, so that they could be free from worry.

"Wu Qingcang said in a deep voice, “To be trusted by Your Highness is truly a blessing for my brother and me. My brother and I will surely do everything we can for Your Highness, no matter the danger.”

With a light chuckle, Li Chen said, “These words can wait until after we have defeated the Liao army.”Chapter 502: Please Help, Lord Advisor