Wang Ji led his thousand-odd troops by water to Jiaozhou, where Shi Bao and the others were stationed.
Traveling by water shortened the journey considerably.
Shi Bao and Huo Yi were already standing beside the docks, waiting for Wang Ji to arrive.
When Wang Ji's warship drew alongside and he led his men ashore, Shi Bao hurried forward to salute him.
"General Wang!"
Wang Ji returned their salutes, then asked about the situation at the front.
This was Nanhai Commandery, with Longchuan County just ahead.
Huo Yi had little acquaintance with Wang Ji, nor did they ordinarily exchange letters. He merely stood coldly to one side without speaking, while Shi Bao could not help launching into an account.
"The Wu generals stationed here are truly fierce and valiant!"
"Among the older men is Zhongli Mu. He has campaigned in Jiaozhou for years, pacifying the Shanyue and defeating the Five Creeks Tribes. He is frugal and cares for his soldiers, distributing all the rewards he receives among the officers and men under his command. They deeply respect and love him, and the local tribespeople all hold him in great esteem."
"Among the younger men are Tao Huang and Xue Xu. Both are brave, upright men, seasoned campaigners and skilled fighters. They have followed Zhongli Mu in fighting us, and the common people and tribespeople of this commandery are all willing to follow them. I truly cannot defeat them..."
Shi Bao's account was steeped in blood and tears.
Had the Wu Kingdom stuffed all its most capable young fighters into Jiaozhou?
If they could fight so well, why had they not been stationed on the front lines?
These men were not merely capable fighters. More importantly, their personal virtue was exceptional, earning them the deep respect and love of the local people,