Chapter 137:

At night, Su Li studied a marching map independently inside the military camp. For this expedition, Li Er granted Su Li, the commander-in-chief, complete autonomy. Even the march route could be decided by him. This surprised Li Daozong and Su Dingfang, considering that in the past, generals had no authority to choose their march route within the Tang Dynasty. The emperor aimed to control the army tightly. The designated route was usually the most cost-effective and ensured prepared supplies.

Additionally, concerns about rebellion were also a factor. However, Li Ers trust in Su Li was unprecedented, evident from his order to do it cheaply. Li Daozong and Su Dingfang couldnt believe this level of trust, as even favored sons-in-law wouldnt receive such treatment. This directive, while an honor, was seen as impractical. If followed, it would take Su Lis troops far and wide, causing Li Er to be furious.

Despite assumptions, Su Li wasnt planning to stick to the original March plan. After five days of marching, their army had reached Niushu Mountain at the Hezhou-Linyao border. The next plan was to head west to Song Zhou, then south into the Shu region for a smoother journey. However, Su Li had other ideas and didnt intend to adhere to the route prescribed by Li Er.

Li Ers so-called friendly suggestion for the march was simplistic. The route, timing, and supply arrangements were all laid out straightforwardly. Even the timing for arriving on the battlefield was specified. It was almost as if they had planned everything for us. Then what was the purpose of him, the commander-in-chief? While it was true that generals in the Tang Dynasty typically followed a similar approach when leading their troops, Su Li was still annoyed. Therefore, when Li Er told him to do things cheaply, Su Li certainly wouldnt let that authority go to waste.

Su Lis plan was straightforward. He intended to swiftly march to the battlefield, then directly into the plateau after overcoming altitude sickness, which most people could adapt to over time. Once altitude sickness was managed, he planned to initiate a full-scale offensive. The best plan, he believed, was no plan at all. With his combat prowess, he could manage a reckless approach.

Li Daozong was a bit bewildered. After marching for so long, this was the first time Su Li had come to him to discuss something. But as soon as he entered the room, Su Li informed him that they needed to march urgently and engage directly with Tubos main force. Then, Su Li wanted to communicate this strategic decision to the entire army.

Li Daozong was perplexed. He felt like he had been deceived. Who told him that Su Lis military strategy was not inferior to Li Jings? How could he believe something thats unreliable? Or, what was Su Lis source of confidence?

After hesitating momentarily, Li Daozong again attempted to persuade Su Li, Commander, please reconsider

Su Li chuckled lightly and said, My lord, Im well aware. I know what youre worried about. Rest assured, I will prove it to you!

In the eyes of others, Su Li may appear overconfident, but he intended to show them that with a certain level of strength, complex problems could be simplified.The source of this content nov(el)bi((n))