Chapter 1892: The General Knows Warfare

First Hundred Thirty-Nine Chapter: This Marquis Understands Soldiers

In the afternoon, a group of people arrived. The leader was naturally the Second Prince, accompanied by the Crown Prince and the Fourth Prince, each bringing a few personal guards and advisors. They were dressed in casual attire.

They were a strange group. Even though they had gathered in the Western Courtyard, they were all focused on Lin Yixu. He stood there, accepting their greetings one by one.

"General Lin, greetings."

"Master Lin, hello."

"Young Master Lin, how are you?"

Lin Yixu smiled faintly. There was nothing to be proud of in achieving a military rank. It was the result of hard work, and many people could achieve it. However, being addressed as "Master" and "Young Master" meant that he had a promising future, was widely respected, and was still young. These titles were much more impressive.

As the sun began to set, the Second Prince arranged for a banquet to be held in the courtyard.

At the banquet, amidst the clinking of cups and lively atmosphere, the three princes took turns engaging Lin Yixu in conversation. The Crown Prince was rather reserved, just raising a toast and exchanging pleasantries. The Fourth Prince seemed somewhat dispirited, speaking only a few words. Only the Second Prince, with a look of anticipation, discussed the ongoing conflict at the border with Lin Yixu.

"General Lin, you fought against the Xirong and drove them back. What do you think about the war now?" The Second Prince's eyes shone. He was a prince, but in matters of war, he couldn't compare to Lin Yixu, a young General who had just returned from the battlefield.

Lin Yixu put down his wine cup and sighed, "Your Highness, the war is far from over. We are just getting started."

"Oh? Please elaborate, General." The Second Prince leaned forward, listening intently.

Lin Yixu's expression was serious. "The Xirong were defeated this time, but their strength was not significantly weakened. They were simply unable to sustain their aggression and retreated. They will definitely return in the future."

"Then what should we do?"

"We must strengthen our defenses along the border and be prepared to fight at any time," Lin Yixu said. "We must also improve our army's equipment and training. The Xirong cavalry is swift and fierce. We need to develop new tactics to counter them."

The Second Prince nodded thoughtfully. "General Lin's words are insightful. I will report this to His Majesty."

As the banquet continued, the Second Prince, in a moment of excitement, patted Lin Yixu on the shoulder and said, "General Lin, I didn't expect you to not only excel in civil matters but also be so skilled in military strategy. You are a true prodigy!"

Lin Yixu smiled wryly. He had only read a few books on military strategy and theory. All of his practical experience came from his previous life as a general in the army. He knew how to fight, but he wasn't necessarily a master strategist.

He had never claimed to understand military matters deeply, but now, everyone seemed to believe he did.

"Your Highness is too kind," Lin Yixu said humbly. "I am just fortunate to have been able to contribute to the victory."

The Crown Prince and Fourth Prince watched the exchange with mixed feelings. The Second Prince's admiration for Lin Yixu was evident. This further highlighted Lin Yixu's rising status and influence.

As the night deepened, the banquet came to an end. The three princes took their leave, each with their own thoughts.

Lin Yixu stood in the courtyard, the moonlight casting a long shadow. He knew that his return would bring about changes, but he didn't expect the impact to be so immediate and significant.

He had become a figure of attention, not just because of his military achievements, but also because of his perceived strategic prowess. This was a double-edged sword. It gave him more influence, but it also made him a target.

He sighed. The future was uncertain, but he was ready to face it. He had the support of the emperor and the admiration of some powerful figures. With careful planning and execution, he could navigate the treacherous waters of court politics.

He looked up at the moon, a silent witness to the events of the day. He was Lin Yixu, a man from another world, now a rising star in the Great Zhou Dynasty. His journey had just begun.