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Anime Decline of the Three Kingdoms XIII: Fame and Strategy

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
65 - Uneven Fight
Rather than challenging the attackers, the defenders retreated further into the inner walls.

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There will be no respite.

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Yue Jin, a steadfast general finally arrives on the scene and showed a modicum of capability. However, he was helpless to prevent the slaughter of his comrades' units.

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Thousands lay dead and wounded within a week of fierce onslaught. Only Yue Jin's remain standing in the end, determined to hold long as he could within the main camp.

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No reinforcements came to save him.

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RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
66 - The Latecomers
More reinforcements trickled in after the battle - only to realize they are now sieging the city they're meant to save.

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They didn't even reach the gates.

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Seeing the fate of their comrades, the rest of the reinforcements stopped on their tracks.

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They dread the order to advance as they waited for more reinforcements to arrive before making another attempt to retake the city.

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Emboldened by the enemy's hesitation, Shi Difen's army assaulted Hulao Gate, the eastern gate protecting Luoyang.

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In response, Yuan Shang's army summoned a force of 30,000 from another northern route to attack Hongnong. And gave the order for the gathered forces to advance on Luoyang.

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Send Excidium's secondary force to stop the attack on Hongnong, we'll rush back to defend Luoyang.
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RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
67 - Abort Luoyang
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The small garrison of 7000 has successfully delayed the counterattack enough for Shi Difen's force to reinforce.

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More troops poured in, but as usual their quality is lacking.

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Thousands arrive, only for more to rout the next few days. With such rate of casualty, the siege never gained momentum and moral continues to plummtet.

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The view from main camp as Shi Difen's massive cavalry bears down upon them is a frightening sight.

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A desperate Yuan officer unleashed a flame strategy in the midst of melee, but it barely slowed down the defenders's march.

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The defeat forced Yuan Shang to abandon plans to retake Luoyang.

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He now places his hopes on his northern attack force to retake Hongnong. Surely Shi Difen's army cannot intercept them in time...
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
68 - Parry and Punch
Choosing to ignore Hulao Gate, Shi Difen's Army crosses the river to the north.

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There, they caught a small force guarding Port Ping off guard.

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Yuan Shang's reserves has been greatly depleted in the region. Taking advantage of that fact, Shi Difen makes a river crossing to assault Henei.

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Yuan Shang's bulk of northern army is still committed on attacking Hongnong.

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Ahead of them lies several camps occupied by Shi Difen's secondary army. The secondary army consists of 69,000 soldiers lead by Excidium and Fa Zheng with more reinforcements trickling in, Yuan Shang army took a gamble and commenced the attack. Near the same time, Shi Difen commences his siege on Henei.

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The defenders knew they have very little hope of getting reinforcements.

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The attackers have them outnumbered nearly 4 to 1.

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The numbers improved as Yue Jin arrives. But it'll prove to be nothing more than a speedbump.

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In the midst of rout, another 32,000 arrives to reinforce the defenders, momentarily surprising the attackers. But in the end, they maintained their advantage and slowly ground the defender's resistance to dust.

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Henei's main camp was sacked and the rest of the army dispersed.

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Once again, Yuan Shang's reinforcements could not affect a rescue of their city. All 60,000 reinforcements were routed.

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Moreoever, the capture of Henei forced Yuan Shang to abandon his plans to attack Henei from the north. After a short skirmish between the two forces, the attackers withdrew with minor losses to both sides.

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RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
69 - Circle Back to Center
Alarmed by the loss of Henei that could threaten the rest of his northern territory, Yuan Shang launches a quick counter-offensive. 50,100 soldiers were intercepted outside the city.

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However, Yuan Shang's army is still plagued with personnel shortages. With a three-front war they're fighting, officer quality has reached its limit. No matter how many reserves they have to deploy, they're only as good as the officer leading them. Shi Difen exploited this weakness by simply charging at the main camp.

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As their main camp guards were overwhelmed, their split up force aborted their attack and attempts to revert back in time.

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With numerical advantage, all Shi Difen had to do was send a small detachment to delay them while the rest pillage the main camp.

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Gongsun Zan and the rest of his soldiers fled upon its destruction.

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Yuan Shang force suffered another major defeat, but their southern campaign against Liu Xun fares slightly better.

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It's doubtful whether they'll get more reinforcements if Shi Difen continues his advance.

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Having depleted all immediate reserves, Yuan Shang's defenders are helpless to blockade all avenues of attack from Shi Difen's main army. In 208 AD Sep, Shi Difen's army advanced to cross the river back to the south.

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ninjerk.jpg
So this is our true objective all along? The Central Plains?
difen.jpg
Using this route has a two-fold purpose: I wiped any immediate counter-attacks on both cities, while advancing into Central Plains at the same time.
alk.jpg
Why not take the north?
difen.jpg
It's too vast of a region to control now. I need somewhere tighter - easier to respond. You must understand: we have ZERO immediate reinforcements coming from the west, we've deployed everything. Any more reinforcements from Chengdu and beyond would take months to reach the front and that would leave them vulnerable to Liu Xun's Army.

And so the massive army begins its crossing back to the south.

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A small force attempts to delay them but were wiped out in a river battle.

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They reached the other side of the river with no problem.

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There, they were immediately beset by smaller armies in a delaying action.

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Don't waste time; break through!
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RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
70 - Deep Fried
difen.jpg
What did you say?
messenger.jpg
An unaffiliated officer wishes to serve you, he's very old but claims to have magical powers.
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difen.jpg
Huh... go ahead.
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Whatever. Enough distractions! We advance to Chenliu!
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Upon realizing Shi Difen's intent, Yuan Shang doubled down hard.

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A giant mess of reserves were deployed from the north into the central plains. At the same time, Shi Difen's secondary army is breaking through Hulao Gate to regroup with him in Xuchang, where the Han Emperor is seated.

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ninjerk.jpg
So that's your objective all along.
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The Emperor is a great propaganda tool. More officers would join our cause once we seize control of the Imperial Court.
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It's a shame to use the rightful monarch this way, but I guess it can't be helped.
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But first, let's take Chenliu.
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Xuchang is protected by defensive emplacements and a gate on the western walls. But the twin southern gates has none. The outnumbered defenders rushes over to the southern walls but were quickly overwhelmed.

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One more wall to scale, Gongsun Zan rushes forth from the inner gates to delay the advance.

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In the confusion, Yue Jin leads a 15,000 strong cavalry to destroy the attackers' main camp.

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But Ninjerk is leading a detachment of 20,000 to make sure it doesn't happen.

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The second ladder is set. And the attackers are within sight of the main camp.

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Another 20,000 reinforcements arrived to defend the city.

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Yue Jin's plan was a total failure, he could not break through and was forced to retreat as Chenliu's main camp falls.

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RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
71 - Early Release
The way is nearly clear. With a huge force gathered just behind them, Shi Difen's army cease marching to deal with them quickly.

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difen.jpg
We can't let them attack us all at once. While they're busy crossing the river, we must eliminate all the advance force!

Wei Yan's 50,000 did not expect to catch up with the enemy so soon. And were slightly fatigued from the march.

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Shi Difen's Army on the other hand has been bolstered with many victories and suffered minimal losses.

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But before the melee could occur, 30,000 more joined Wei Yan's army.

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Seems they've moved earlier than expected. So be it. Advance!
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Once the melee has started, Di Bens was sent back to safeguard the main camp from any harassers. Wei Yan's numerical advantage only lasted for a few weeks.

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Elsewhere, Shi Difen's secondary army has successfully taken control of Hulao Gate.

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Can't slow down too much. Double your efforts!
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Wei Yan personally led a cavalry attack on the main camp but was repelled by Di Ben's 12,000.

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The rest of his men were slaughtered in open combat.

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The way to their main camp is wide open.

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His camp sacked, Wei Yan retreats in disgrace after losing nearly 50,000 men.

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Seeing Wei Yan's defeat, Yuan Shang's Army decides to hold their position and regroup at Port Baima.

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Will they attack again?
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I doubt it. Doesn't matter. We're not defending Chenliu.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
72 - Court Seizure
Unexpectedly, none of Yuan Shang's army took the opportunity to retake Chenliu. In fact, all the gathered forces at Port Baima has effectively disbanded.

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Surprising. But maybe they're really that dumb. Whatever, instruct the secondary army to construct strongholds all over the villages leading to Xuchang.
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As the secondary army get to work in reinforcing strategic positions, Shi Difen's main army sieges Xuchang.

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Only 10,000 came forward to defend the city.

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Have they gravely underestimated the importance of this city?
ninjerk.jpg
I can think of at least 200,000 reasons why that's not the case.
difen.jpg
Hahah. Well said.

Yue Jin, the ever-faithful officer of Yuan marches forth with another 10,000 men.

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Xu Chang's double wall system necessitates two ladders deployment to penetrate. But it's a minor delay.

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Yue Jin's defense of the main camp is an admirable albeit hopeless effort. He was captured in the aftermath.

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That woke them up.
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Hmph. Do we have any prisoners in Chenliu?
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It appears Gongsun Zan is among them.
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Execute Gongsun Zan. We can't risk such a talented general escaping and leading the enemy.
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Do we execute Yue Jin?
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Only when the city holding them is at risk of being captured.
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Rest in peace. How are the defensive preparations?
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Mostly done. We've built at least two camps at Kaifeng and Mi.
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Make sure Guandu and Yongqiu is blockaded as well. We'll march out to construct another stronghold as well and intercept the attack.
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Who shall govern Xuchang in your absence?
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How about that wizard?
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Interesting choice, very well. We move out!

And so Shi Difen's army prepares to dig in and defend Chenliu from Yuan Shang's counter-attack.

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The Emperor, recognizing Shi Difen's achievements granted him a new title.

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While many strategic points received a massive construction order.

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It would seem Shi Difen's Army offensive has halted for now.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
73 - Center of Attention
The combatants in the central plains were estimated to be at least 350,000. Many years ago, Yuan Shao conquered Cao Cao in a massive battle. Today, a new banner has risen over Xuchang and Chenliu.

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What? Liu Bei is still independent?
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Yes, that man certainly has an unbelievable luck. He's commanding a mere 30,000 and controls single city.
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Lucky or not, how is he going to affect anything at all?
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Don't underestimate them. Liu Bei's number might be small, but under him is a cadre of elite officers that many warlords would envy. The likes of Zhang Fei, Guan Yu and Zhao Yun serve him.
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They're fools to serve such a weak lord.
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I don't know what kind of mind tricks or deceptions he's used to control them, but I don't want to fight them. Inform War Minister Wang Yi to negotiate a truce with Liu Bei.
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(Liu Bei...the Heavens truly watch out for you.)

Unwilling to simply wait in defense of Chenliu, Shi Difen's force blitzes Port Baima to catch Yuan Shang's advance army off-guard.

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In the midst of battle a messenger delivers the news of Yuan Shang army carrying out their attack on Xuchang.

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Finish this quickly, we must return to Xuchang! Send word to Crispy to deploy a delaying army!

The newly appointed Governor of Xuchang rushes into action.

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Good. Protect Chenliu in my absence, I must rush towards Xuchang!
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Lord Difen will arrive soon. Have faith!
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Ha! What did I tell ya? Let's go! Counterattack!
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Fall back, scum!
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My Lord, if I may...
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The wounded have healed?! It's a miracle!
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Well done, Wizard! Forward!

Crispy's Vanguard strategy raises morale and heals the wounded. Simply priceless.

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The attacking force were routed.

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Well done, Crispy. Keep up the good work.
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My Lord, Liu Bei's force of 36,000 is on the move from Xiapi.
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Hm. They've entered an alliance with Yuan Shang? Well played, Liu Bei. That's the best bet you can make right now.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
74 - Conflict of Interest
Having taken Chenliu and Xuchang, Shi Difen's Army is pondering their next move.

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difen.jpg
Damn, at this rate I won't get to see our daughter again this year.

Meanwhile his secondary army completed constructions of strongholds at every strategic points, preventing easy counter-attacks from Yuan shang forces.

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Liu Bei's army on the mean time has sealed an alliance with both Sun Quan and Yuan Shang to ensure their survival.

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Liu Xun meanwhile is locked in a deadly feud with Yuan Shang and is allied with Sun Quan.

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The blood feud has made a truce impossible between Liu Xun and Yuan Shang's army. This state of relations is advantageous for Shi Difen's Army since a coaliton between Yuan Shang and Liu Xun is strong enough to defeat him. He marches forward to seize the city of Qiao and summons another small army to construct additional strongholds.

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A small force of 20,000 defends Qiao. Reinforcements seem unlikely.

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The defenders scattered in all direction when the gate was breached and let the main camp fall without a challenge.

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The chaos in central plains is destabilizing Yuan Shang's war efforts. Many resources were originally devoted to invading the south. As a result of Shi Difen's invasion, Yuan Shang's southern conquest Xun is beginning to run short of critical supplies and manpower.

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Liu Xun is beginning to mount a counterattack of his own.

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While Sun Quan escaped subjugation by allying with Liu Xun.

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RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
75 - Central Authority
Another month, another counter-attack foiled.

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Yuan Shang's army simply could not break through Shi Difen's defenses.

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They have also diverted more and more resources to a 'winnable' war down south against Liu Xun.

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An opening that does not escape Shi Difen's attention.

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If we take Runan, they'll be effectively isolated. So let's do Liu Xun a favor.
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Good thing we still have Chengdu to supply us with provisions.

Shi Difen's control over the Han Emperor does not appear to waver. No matter how symbolic the Emperor's position may seem, it is still the legitimate ruler over the entire kingdom and with greater title, comes greater prestige and influence.

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Shi Difen distributes the lower titles accordingly, affording his generals the greatest military titles while his advisers were given great Administrative positions.

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Yuan Shang's gamble on reinforcing the south seems to have paid off, he now outnumbers Liu Xun's army in battle.

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His northern army has given up on retaking the central and retreated from Port Baima.

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But the capture of Runan may signal a withdrawal from the south as he's effectively cut off from his northern territories.

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What Yuan Shang needs right now is an immediate truce with Liu Xun.
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Is such a thing even possible?
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Would you forgive me if I executed your father?
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Point taken.
difen.jpg
Yuan Shang brought this upon himself. Advance and let's ruin the murderer's day.
 

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
76 - Balance of Power
Despite a chain of setbacks for Yuan Shang, he is still the strongest military power in the realm.

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difen.jpg
We can't lower our guard. We must direct the entire hatred of the realm against Yuan Shang.
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We've captured his brother, Yuan Xi. Shall we execute him?
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No. Release him and demand a year's harvest as trade. That'll make up for the shortfall from the poor harvest.
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Dispatch more troops to the front. I want the roads cleared of their stronghold and replaced with ours!
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Shi Difen's army of 70,000 seized Xinye while Yuan Shang's army is battling Liu Xun's in Xiangyang.

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It seems they've made another move for Qiao in your absence. How shall we react?
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Any important prisoners in Qiao?
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We have a few officers, including Jia Xu. One of their strategists.
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Execute him and send a token force to defend from Xuchang.
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Jia Xu was swiftly executed and Crispy marches from Xuchang to defend the city.

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Elsewhere, Markman was granted a title and was told to invade a small isolated city under Liu Xun's control.

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Liu Xun's Army is unable to reinforce and instead sends the bulk of his force to break through Xiangyang.

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And once you've both weakened each other. I shall sweep in and take the cities. Mwa-ha-ha-ha.
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Stop that disgusting laugh immediately.
difen.jpg
Sorry, I can't contain myself.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
77 - Let Them Fight
A rather desperate attempt was made to retake Xinye. Only a mere 8,800 against 70,000.

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The defenders didn't waste time and met them outside the gates.

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Yuan Shang hasn't given up on fighting Liu Xun and seeks to reopen the path down south by retaking Runan.

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They simply refused to give up Xiangyang.

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Inform the defenders to let them take Runan. I want them to maintain that flow of troops down south.
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Yuan Shang Army might be able to celebrate the recapture of their city for once, but that doesn't mean their trouble has ended. Wan, another isolated city will be taken shortly.

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No reinforcements are possible.

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Elsewhere, Crispy does what he does best: repulsing azn girls.

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It's a minor force, he should have everything under control.

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The river front remains tense. Both sides are expecting an imminent attack. The capture of Wan meant we've cleared another route to the central plains. We now will seize control of Wu Gate for ourselves.

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Elsewhere, Turisas is losing the battle for Shangyong.

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And Runan fell as expected.

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Negotiations with Liu Bei was successful, and a 2 year truce was agreed upon.

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This meant Yuan Shang can no longer rely on Liu Bei's Army to aid them against Shi Difen's Army.
 

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
78 - The Right Path
With the truce, Liu Bei's obligation to defend Xiaopei is no longer in effect. Shi Difen's army of 70,000 marches towards it with little challenge.

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Elsewhere, Sun Quan finally turns it around against Yuan Shang's army.

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Turisas is routed and retreats back into Shangyong. The city will fall soon.

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difen.jpg
Mmm.

Turisas finally surrendered.

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The battle between Yuan Shang and Liu Xun for Xiangyang remains as fierce as ever.

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As expected, Yuan Shang is losing in all three fronts.

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Seize the Central Plains, crush Yuan, befriend Sun and Liu. Ignore Liu Xun. That is the plan. Now. Let's take Xiaopei!
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The promised reinforcements from Liu Bei arrived but did not aid the city in the defense. Instead a small token force arrived lead by an enraged official.

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We blew them away like the wind.

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Guan Yu's army of 39,000 watched silently as the city's flag was lowered and replaced with Shi Difen's standard. Having declared their neutrality in the region, Liu Bei's independence is assured. But for how long?

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RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
79 - Bandit Horde
With the war in Central Plains still dragging on, Shi Difen decides to not risk it and propose a truce with Sun Quan. Zhang Zhao, Sun Quan's former Domestic Minister was tasked to negotiate.

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With Zhang Zhao's former connections within the Sun's Clan, negotiations should be a guaranteed success. Elsewhere, trouble brewed in the south: a large band of bandits have gathered and they might strike at Xinye.

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I don't think I should care too much about Xinye. I don't even have anyone stationed there.

Shi Difen's army instead marched northwards to capture the port city of Jibei.

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Yuan Shang's army development in the region is estimated at 200,000. Another captured city would go a long way to acquire additional troops in the area.

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Against all expectations, the group of bandits decides to assault Xuchang, this is a threat that Shi Difen cannot afford to ignore. He quickly summons troops from Luoyang, Chenliu and Xuchang to stop the advancing bandit army.

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Tell Crispy to assume command. I'm already committed to attacking Jibei.
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Jibei's defenders are outnumbered and the city fell quickly.

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RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
80 - Threat Remains
Crispy proved up to the task. The army under his command performs admirably and should be able to repel the bandit assault.

01.jpg


Satisfied with the southern security, Shi Difen takes another step to securing the northern borders, this time attacking Yuan Shang's gathered army of 70,000 near Puyang.

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Elsewhere, a small force lead by Wei Yan attacks Port Baima where Li Hui is leading a force of 61,000 to defend.

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difen.jpg
Ignore that. Take out the army in front of us first.
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Confident of a swift victory, Shi Difen takes a more aggressive formation.

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However, a sudden confusion tactic halted his advance.

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Confusion tactic basically disabled 5 bars of maximum control for the enemy, preventing them from using high tier strategies such as 'Like the Wind' which requires 7 bars to activate.

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Fall back!

With the enemy in pursuit, a fire strategy was deployed to inflict casualties.

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If we can't use higher tier strategies, then we'll use lower ones!
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Wanting to further his advantage, he sends Di Bens and another unit to raid the enemy's secondary camp.

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His primary force on the mean time held their position against the advancing enemy.

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Slowly, Shi Difen's army begins to turn the table.

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difen.jpg
OK! The confusion tactic wore off! Let's go!
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Shi Difen's counterattack broke the deadlock.

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But the delayed victory meant there was sufficient time for Yuan Shang's army to recapture the undefended city of Jibei.

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difen.jpg
Lose a city, destroy a 70,000 strong army. Worth the trade.
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The victory also confirmed his fears: Yuan Shang is gaining new talent. Zhuge Liang a brilliant strategist has fought his first battle. A force of 50,000 has occupied Jibei. While Li Hui's army took moderate casualties after successfully defending port Baima.

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Crispy has routed the bandit army, though not without taking damage.

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difen.jpg
Not sure how long we can take this.

The Battle of Xiangyang is finally over, Yuan Shang's force finally surrendered control of the city to Liu Xun, creating a new front for Shi Difen to the south.

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The year is 210 AD, nearly two years since he marched from Changan, Shi Difen has controlled most of Central Plains but struggles to break Yuan Shang's resistance from the north. To the south lies Liu Xun, fresh from his hard-earned victory against Yuan Shang. Peace is still a faraway dream.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
81 - Forced Invitation
The road to Puyang is clear, Shi Difen's Force of 65,000 advances to capture the city.

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Realizing that such an attack would trigger a massive response, Li Hui's Force was ordered to withdraw to Chenliu.

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ninjerk.jpg
Wouldn't it be better if they delay the reinforcements at Port Baima?
difen.jpg
No. They wouldn't last long. It'd be a waste of manpower. Use this attack as a lure to force those cowards to cross the stream, then we sweep them aside all at once.

And so the siege of Puyang begins.

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difen.jpg
Seize the walls quickly. We cannot afford to waste time.
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The defenders raced up the walls, but could not stop the attackers from deploying two siege ladders.

difen.jpg
The battle starts here!
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Almost at once, 30,000 reinforces arrived to aid the defenders.

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In the chaos, Wu Yi's unit descended too early from the walls and was surrounded.

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Seeing no way out, he resorted to a suicidal flame strategy. The defenders' morale plummets as Zhang Ji and Di Ben's unit successfully razed the external camps.

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The defenders begin to melt away, but their numbers were restored as another of reinforcements arrive.

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By then, the attackers have enough control over the inner wall to execute an offensive tactic.

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Wu Yi's strategy is paying off, against all odds, he survived against 30,000 archers.

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difen.jpg
Let's break him out. Charge!
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The charge had a definite impact in terms of casualties inflicted, but could not break the encirclement around Wu Yi.

difen.jpg
We're going to need more control to unleash our force. Tell Di Bens to activate the Prayers tactics and destroy another camp!

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Wu Yi's desperate escape is still in progress, but as he charged out of the encirclement one of the enemy officers challenged him to a duel.

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difen.jpg
Wu Yi is a notch above this man. There should be no problem.

But the battle unfolded differently, Wu Yi's over-confidence led to his downfall.

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23.jpg
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
82 - The Final Tactic
01.jpg


Wu Yi was defeated, but survived the ordeal.

difen.jpg
Ninjerk! One more time! Break out!
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The second charge proved more effective at breaking the encirclement as more senior officers routed, the defenders' are starting to suffer a breakdown.

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Yet Wu Yi's unit is still trapped and has dwindled to a mere 500.

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In the midst of confusion, two defenders rushed out of the city gates to harass the attackers' main camp. A desperate effort to turn the tide as the defenders are hopelessly outnumbered within their own walls.

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Another 12,000 arrived to reinforce the defenders however.

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Shi Difen decides that the threat could not be ignored and ordered Di Bens and Zhang Ji to intercept.

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Zhang He was also given permission to ride back and remove the threat.

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Wu Yi's unit miraculously survived the melee with just 76 men.

difen.jpg
Hang tight. It's time for the final strategy!
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The inner camp was suppressed and the attackers used their final trick to replenish their numbers.

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But as the attackers gather the wounded, another 12,000 arrived to aid the defense.

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difen.jpg
This bait is working too well. Rest up and engage!

Zhang He in the mean time successfully dealt with the threats to the main camp.

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The attackers quickly rode back into the city and lay the final siege on the defenders' main camp.

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It was a complete slaughter. Yuan Shang's defenders suffered more than 100,000 casualties in the defense of Puyang.

18.jpg
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
83 - The Steady Flow
In the aftermath of Puyang, Yuan Shang's military woes continued. Sun Quan's Force has mounted an attack on Shouchun.

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While the city of Guangling is under siege by barbarian tribes.

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Noting these 'crises', Shi Difen's army judged that the time is ripe to invade the north. Wu Yi's depleted unit is told to disperse.

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And Wu Yi is rewarded with governorship of Puyang.

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An effort was also made to invade the weakened city of Runan using the reserves in Central Plains.

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A late reinforcement from the north came later, they were quickly swept aside by the new holders of Puyang.

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Not wishing to lose Puyang to a counter-attack, Shi Difen's force attacked Yuan Shang's gathered navy that are gathered at Puyang port.

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Both sides are inexperienced at naval warfare, unlike the men of the south. They had to chain their ships with each other to maintain stability. Not doing so would constantly drain morale.

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It was a slow, tedious battle.

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But Shi Difen's army has the advantage of quality and quantity. Taking no risk, his units slowly focused on the weaker targets and maintained the chain formation. But the slow pace of battle meant more time for Yuan's reinforcements to arrive.

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difen.jpg
Steady. Maintain morale! Do not break formation!
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The battle took more than a month to conclude but Shi Difen's army suffered minimal losses.

19.jpg
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
84 - Clash of Kings
Pang De's force is ready to attack Runan.

01.jpg


Just to the east, Sun Quan continues to press his attack on Shouchun.

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difen.jpg
The way is clear, no enemies remain near Puyang. We cross the stream this day and shan't return until the entire north is ours!
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Shi Difen's army reached Port Liyang unchallenged, but Yuan Shang's force of 63,000 awaits battle just ahead.

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Confident of victory, Shi Difen splits the army into 2. Xu Huang will guard the main camp, while the bulk of the force shall advance.

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Yuan Shang's attack on the main camp was met with fierce resistance from Xu Huang.

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Shi Difen's main force alone tore through Yuan Shang's secondary force.

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Yuan Shang himself was routed by Xu Huang, the young king broke engagement after a short battle and left his two assistants to their own devices.

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difen.jpg
Going somewhere?
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Half of his forces routed, Yuan Shang can find no escape.

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Your clay is mine.
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Yuan Shang's War Minister, Liu Ye was slain in the chaos.

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alk.jpg
Forgive us. Despite encircling him, Yuan Shang escaped capture.
difen.jpg
Oh? That's good news.
alk.jpg
What do you mean?
difen.jpg
As long Yuan Shang lives, Liu Xun will not be able to make peace with Yuan Shang, the murderer of his father.
ninjerk.jpg
Were you not vengeful when he had Lord Liu Zhang executed?
difen.jpg
I was. But a true ruler should never let hatred cloud his judgment. Come, the entire north awaits capture.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
85 - Seize the Clay
Hefei - Yuan Shang's persistance is beginning to pay off as Sun Quan's small reserves are starting to strain under the fierce defense.

01.jpg


Pang De's attack is somewhat more successful. Capture of Runan is only a matter of time.

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Meanwhile, Shi Difen's Northern Expedition advances towards Yie, Yuan Shang's major stronghold in the north.

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difen.jpg
More than 50,000 recruits were deployed every month from this city. Take it and we have a foothold in this region.

Runan is captured.

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But Yuan Shang's response is lightning fast.

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difen.jpg
Hm? That's unexpected. What happened to Sun Quan's attack on Shouchun?
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difen.jpg
They retreated?! Damn fool. No matter. Let us seize Yie first!
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No less than three walls protect Yie from invasion.

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Yuan Shang is personally leading the defense.

difen.jpg
Take your time! Let's destroy these external camps first!
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Xu Huang bravely scaled the wall and opened the first gate from within.

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difen.jpg
Up the second wall! Come on! We have two more camps to raze inside!
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The defenders could not stop the advancing army's momentum.

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Yuan Shang was the last to go, cowering within the last wall until the last second.

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His unit was surrounded and quickly overwhelmed. And once again, he escaped capture.

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Yie is captured, but Yuan Shang's force hasn't given up on recapturing Runan from Shouchun.

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Pang De held off the counter-attack for now, but more reinforcements are en route.

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Li Hui's Force was quickly dispatched to assist.

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Shi Difen's Force is committed to the north and will not turn back.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
86 - Hate the World
In response to the attack on Runan, multiple reserves were deployed from the central cities.

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03.jpg

difen.jpg
That will have to do. On the mean time deploy the remaining reserves from the western cities.
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ninjerk.jpg
We can scrape around 50,000. But the quality of the officers...
difen.jpg
Irrelevant. I need warm bodies to take advantage of Yuan Shang's weakened sectors in the north. If you can't siege an empty city, you don't deserve to be an officer.
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06.jpg

difen.jpg
Look at all this attention we're getting. There must be at least 100,000 of them more in reserves. Kill them all take their cities. Mission complete.
messenger.jpg
Report! Ma Chao of Liu Xun's Force is besieging Xinye!
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difen.jpg
Tsk. So it's started.. we're the big bad now.
ninjerk.jpg
With no other hostile cities bordering Liu Xun's territories, they've set our sight on us.
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difen.jpg
Xinye is unimportant. Let's go. One of Yuan Shang's late reinforcements have arrived.
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Shi Difen's Force wasted no time and deployed outside the city walls.

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It was the right move to make, considering what is about to happen next...

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difen.jpg
Yuesui? That's southwestern territories! There's no time to waste. Crash against them like the wind!
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difen.jpg
Out of my way, pests.
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difen.jpg
Report on the Yuesui attack. Now.
messenger.jpg
The attack is coming from three directions. Zhang Ren, Ma Teng and Cud Gel are leading their garrison.
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difen.jpg
Bestow the following titles to these officers. I need them to lead the defense force.
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Without titles, officers could only lead very few men.

difen.jpg
Order them to deploy 48,000 men from Cheng Du immediately.
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difen.jpg
Those 48,000 will group with Yuesui's 36,000 defense force.
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alk.jpg
Won't they still be outnumbered?
difen.jpg
I'm not finished yet. Send 30,000 from Jingzhou to invade Zangke, Cud Gel's home city.
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difen.jpg
Liu Kui's attack would serve as a diversion and force Cud Gel's force to abandon plans to attack Yuesui.
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difen.jpg
How goes the battle in Central Plains?
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alk.jpg
General Pang De is holding strong. But the enemy has yet to deploy its full reinforcements.
difen.jpg
So do we...don't worry. They'll get it done.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
87 - Burning the North
01.jpg

difen.jpg
Such a large force amassed outside Yie, but they're not attacking. Why?
alk.jpg
Maybe they're waiting for reinforcements?
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difen.jpg
Then we attack. Take them while they're weak.
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difen.jpg
Wu Yi. Hold them off. Everyone else, follow me.
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Shi Difen sends the bulk of his force against the smaller enemy force, while Wu Yi's lone unit delays the attack on their main camp.

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Wu Yi's unit would never last long against such a superior number, but a fire delaying strategy would suffice to inflict damage as he retreats.

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Yan Liang's unit couldn't inflict damage due to the burning surface and constant movement in the forested area. But down in the south, Xinye has fallen to Liu Xun.

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And the enemy's reinforcements have arrived on the scene.

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difen.jpg
Hm.. do we aid Wu Yi..or attack their main camp?
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alk.jpg
It appears he has everything under control, General.
difen.jpg
Yeah, we'd only get hurt ourselves fighting in that burning battlefield.

Attempting to stop the burn and run strategy, Guo Jia pulls off a tactic to immobilize Wu Yi.

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difen.jpg
Xu Huang unit will assist, the rest of you stay. Capture this point prior to assaulting the main camp.
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alk.jpg
Point captured!
difen.jpg
Good. Wu Yi needs this.
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The combination of fallen camp and prayer tactic makes Wu Yi's flame strategy doubly effective. The very demoralized enemies begin to break under the continued blazing onslaught.

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As Xu Huang and Wu Yi held their ground to prevent the enemy's escape, the enemy soldiers' panic and casualties begin to mount.

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Not even the wise Zhuge Liang could escape this deadly inferno.

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When the flames died down, it's time for Xu Huang to show off his valor in battle.

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difen.jpg
Look at their scattered force. It's time to lay the finishing blow. March towards their main camp!
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The outraged Yan Liang charged forth at Wu Yi once more, only to suffer massive casualties in the blazing inferno.

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His cavalry army of 16,000 melted under pressure.

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While their main camp's defender were overwhelmed by Shi Difen's superior force.

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Yan Liang's unit originally numbered 19,000 - ended the battle with just 700.

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The camp fell without him making his way back.

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difen.jpg
No time to celebrate. Yie is under attack.
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The battle continues.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
88 - Collective Effort
ninjerk.jpg
I've redirected the western attack force to blockade Liu Xun's army from going further than Xinye.
01.jpg

difen.jpg
And their response?
ninjerk.jpg
They're gathering their force. Maybe they're expecting a counter attack?
difen.jpg
Could be. We cannot afford to invade Liu Xun right now. What about Pang De's battle?
02.jpg

ninjerk.jpg
Still going strong. We've received reports that Liu Bei's men have joined the fight - and they're on our side.
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difen.jpg
Ah. So their alliance has lapsed. Good. The diplomatic approach pays off.
alk.jpg
Liu Kui's diversion on Zangke is working - he was close to capturing Zangke but Cud Gel's force managed to return in time.
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difen.jpg
His mission is a success. Order him to retreat. There's nothing else to be accomplished.
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And what about the rest of the attack on Yuesui?
alk.jpg
Holding their positions the moment Cud Gel withdrew from the invasion.
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difen.jpg
Perfect. Let's refocus our effort on the north.
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Yuan Shang's counterattack on Yie was repelled easily.

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difen.jpg
Situation update?
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alk.jpg
General Pang De is holding steady. He still has the advantage.
ninjerk.jpg
Our defensive build up in Yuesui has caused alarm in Liu Xun's borders. They're massing troops now around the border.
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difen.jpg
Hmm. Understandable. But we cannot back off now. Hold position.
kalin.jpg
My sources told me a tribal unrest is occurring in the north. The Wuwan tribe has massed more than 40,000 soldiers to raid Yuan Shang's city.
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difen.jpg
Hm. Hopefully it'd be a good diversion. What about our allies?
kalin.jpg
Sun Quan is seeking attacking Guangling.
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difen.jpg
Hm. That would lift some pressure off Pang De. Excellent. Is that all?
ninjerk.jpg
That's all we have for now.
difen.jpg
Very well. Dismissed.
 

RK47

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Dead State Divinity: Original Sin
89 - North Cornered
Seizing control of Yie's garrison, Shi Difen quickly reorganizes his army.

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Zhang He's depleted unit was dismissed and he was given control of Yie where 20,500 soldiers await his command.

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Another army of 60,000 was raised in Central Plains to aid in the northern conquest.

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The cornered forces of Yuan Shang desperately deployed their reserves as well.

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difen.jpg
Advance. The Northern Campaign is nearing its conclusion. It would be a mistake to stop now.

Guo Jia's small army attempts to delay the inevitable.

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But Shi Difen's advance could not be stopped.

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For the Yuan Shang Army is losing battles at every front.

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20.jpg
 

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