Chapter 744 - 27: The Bloody Battle at Juyong Pass, Countermeasures and Surprise Attack!

"His confidence comes from his certainty in his own strategies, which is originally a strength."

"But on the battlefield, this confidence instead becomes his most fatal blind spot."

Gu Jin’s expression remained unchanged as he spoke, while rising to walk towards the large map, decisively placing his finger on the location of Gubeikou Gate.

"Wang Yingchen now believes that our army is determined to break through Juyong Pass, refusing to consider any other route."

"And this is precisely our army’s opportunity!"

"This person is indeed very adept at psychological warfare, and has been quite wary of me at court."

"In recent days, the court contacts our scouts have managed to establish were subsequently eliminated by him, yet he overlooked another expertise of the Gu Clan—"

Upon hearing this, everyone present immediately understood Gu Jin’s intention.

—Surprise attack!

This has been a tactic passed down since the Gu Clan rose to power.

Like his predecessors, Gu Jin is also well-versed in this art.

Even before setting out from Julu, he had personally orchestrated several surprise attacks.

But contrary to expectation, the faces of the soldiers did not show joy; instead, they appeared somewhat solemn.

The fact is, the current situation of the Song Army is indeed not favorable.

Juyong Pass stands like a natural barrier, uncrossable, and the recent fierce assaults have already resulted in considerable casualties.

If they were to deploy a surprise attack at this time, any failure could lead to a crushing defeat.

Isn’t this strategy somewhat too risky?

The entire tent fell silent at once.

The soldiers looked at each other, the air heavy with doubt and gravity.

Finally, it was General Cao Bin who couldn’t help but speak up, bowing with his fists cupped: "Grand Tutor, though Gubeikou Gate is not as treacherous as Juyong Pass, it’s still a strategic pass in Yan Mountain. How could the Liao Army be completely unguarded?"

"Our continuous assaults on Juyong have resulted in significant casualties, and the troops are exhausted."

"If we now split our forces for a distant strike at Gubeikou Gate, and... if we’re discovered by the Liao Army, they may easily counter us, and... the risk of total annihilation looms!"

These words echoed the sentiments of most leaders in the tent.

They weren’t afraid of death.

Few have been able to employ the tactics of a surprise attack through the ages.

Because the risks involved with such tactics are indeed too great.

Gu Jin’s gaze swept across the people, taking in all their concerns, yet he did not get angry, merely saying calmly: "How could I not know your worries, Generals?"

"But precisely because our army has paid a heavy price in blood beneath Juyong Pass, Wang Yingchen will be even more convinced that our army has no other options and can only fight him to the death here!"

His tone grew heavier, his eyes suddenly sharp.

The generals finally understood Gu Jin’s comprehensive plan—days of heavy assaults were both genuine attacks and a strategic layout.

If they could breach the pass, there would be follow-up strategies; if not, there were other surprise forces.

Seeing Gu Jin’s resolute demeanor, the people fell silent again, their expressions complex.

It was at this moment that Zhao Guangyi, who had remained silent all this time, took the lead in expressing his stance: "Grand Tutor, I am willing to accompany you!"

The role of the royal family became unmistakably evident at this point.

Though the generals had their concerns, be it accountability for the aftermath of the battle or the fear of utter defeat, none were truly cowards afraid of war.

They were hardened men from the battlefield, who among them would truly fear death?

Now seeing both the Grand Tutor and King Jin resolute in their decision, the spirits among the men likewise became firm.

Let’s not forget, to join forces with the Gu Clan in a surprise attack is precisely what many military generals have longed for all their lives!

In an instant, the tent resounded with a chorus of steely voices:

"This humble one is willing to follow the Grand Tutor to battle!"...

...

(Ps: Begging for monthly votes, asking brothers for more support, Fish sincerely thanks you! The content of the Song volume will be increasingly dynamic, also based on historical factors, including Fish has also written the extras, there have been quite a few positive reactions this time. Please support!)