Prologue: Under the Wandering Stars
The late Eastern Han period—
The heavens were in turmoil, the earth stained with blood, and it was an era of upheaval where heroes vied for supremacy.
The flames of war consumed the lands, the people starved, soldiers fell, and those seeking a way to save the country used all their wisdom.
Amidst this chaotic world, there was a brilliant woman.
Huang Yueying
Her name would later be spoken of in history as the “wise wife of Zhuge Liang.”
However, her life was not just one of supporting her husband as a wife.
She was an inventor who changed the course of the war with her own wisdom and techniques, and she played a crucial role in shaping the future of Shu.
However, Yueying’s heart was not always at ease.
While the inventions she created supported the war effort and saved lives, they could also become a factor in prolonging the conflict.
She struggled with the weight of both her achievements and their consequences, torn by internal conflict time and time again.
Huang Yueying:
“Am I truly doing the right thing?”
That question never left her heart.
—This is the story of a woman who survived the chaotic world of war, using her wisdom as her weapon.
It is also the record of one who constantly questioned what choices people make and where they are headed.
Chapter 1: At the Huang Family Mansion
The late Eastern Han period.
As the footsteps of chaos gradually drew near, the Huang family mansion was enveloped in an air of calmness.
The hallway was lined with stacks of ancient and contemporary books, while in the garden, prototypes of waterwheels and a simple pedestal for astronomical observations (resembling an observatory) stood.
The head of the Huang family, Huang Cheng, was deeply versed in scholarly pursuits, and the mansion itself resembled a kind of academy.
Huang Yueying was raised in this environment of learning.
The Huang family mansion was a place where scholarship and wisdom gathered, and among the family, Huang Yueying stood out as an especially remarkable figure.
Her father, Huang Cheng, was an accomplished scholar who was always in search of new knowledge, and Yueying grew up surrounded by this environment.
However, despite her father’s expectations and her role within the family, Huang Yueying found herself troubled by doubts about her own future.
Huang Yueying:
“Am I just a woman, bound to serve my family?”
she would sometimes ask herself.
In society, there were many restrictions placed on women, and it was rare for her talents to be properly recognized.
Yet, she continued to walk her own path, developing a strong interest in physics and engineering.
One night, she saw her father, Huang Cheng, standing on the pedestal in the garden, gazing up at the night sky.
Quietly, she approached him.
Huang Yueying:
“Father, why are you looking at the stars so late at night?”
Huang Cheng:
“Yes.”
“The weather is clear tonight, and the stars are easy to see.”
“Look at the alignment of those stars.”
“Being able to accurately map the positions of the stars and create a calendar is actually very important for stabilizing politics.”
Huang Yueying:
“No matter how chaotic the world may be, the movement of the stars remains unchanged.”
“But, as you always say, Father, the movement of the stars governs the calendar, and it also affects farming and politics.”
Huang Cheng:
“Yes. Even in times of chaos, the principles of the heavens remain unchanged.”
“However, it is ultimately human wisdom that shapes the world.”
“Yueying, ever since you were a child, you’ve been fascinated by the workings of machines and nature.”
“That curiosity may one day help save many people.”
Yueying nodded at her father’s words and quietly turned her gaze back to the starry sky.
A small, yet firm resolve began to grow in her heart.
Chapter 2: The Encounter with Zhuge Liang
With the rise of Dong Zhuo and the division of power among warlords, the world was becoming increasingly chaotic.
Around that time, in the land of Shu, a young genius known as “Wolong”, Zhuge Liang, began to gain recognition.
Zhuge Liang actively sought out scholars and wise men from various places, exchanging ideas and seeking their wisdom.
Who Was Zhuge Liang
Zhuge Liang (Kongming) was the chancellor of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period, renowned as a brilliant strategist, politician, and inventor.
He served under Liu Bei and, after his lord’s death, continued to support Shu’s governance and military campaigns.
Often referred to as the “Crouching Dragon” (Wolong), Zhuge Liang was not only a master of warfare and strategy but also an innovator who contributed to military logistics, exemplified by inventions like the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse (Mu Niu Liu Ma).
He dedicated his life to the Northern Expeditions, striving to secure Shu’s future, but ultimately succumbed to illness at Wuzhang Plains before achieving his goal.
Zhuge Liang’s legacy endures as one of the most revered strategists in Chinese history, celebrated for his wisdom, loyalty, and unparalleled intellect.
One day, Zhuge Liang visited the Huang family.
Outside the gate of the Huang family mansion, Huang Cheng and Yueying were already standing to greet him.
Zhuge Liang:
“Huang Cheng, please forgive my sudden visit.”
“I have heard many rumors about your and your daughter’s vast knowledge, and I was eager to hear from you.”
Huang Cheng smiled warmly and bowed, inviting Zhuge Liang into the guest room.
Inside, various books and wooden contraptions were scattered about, and the air was thick with the distinct atmosphere of learning and creativity that characterized the Huang family.
Zhuge Liang, intrigued, picked up one of the devices and began to turn the gears.
As Yueying watched, slightly embarrassed, he let out a voice of admiration.
Zhuge Liang:
“This is a remarkable mechanism.”
“The meshing of the rotating axles is incredibly smooth, and it generates great power with minimal effort.”
Huang Yueying:
“Thank you.”
“This is still a prototype for a waterwheel gear, but if it can be made practical, I believe it could be of help in agriculture…”
Zhuge Liang:
“I am fortunate to have encountered a talent like yours.”
At his words, Yueying felt a slight blush and a fluttering in her chest.
Huang Yueying:
“I’m just using the things around me to solve problems.”
“But to be recognized by someone like you is truly encouraging.”
Zhuge Liang:
“Even in times of chaos, technologies like these support people’s lives.”
“I too have an interest in machinery and engineering.”
“Please, tell me more about it.”
The conversation flowed naturally between the two.
Huang Cheng, watching them, realized that this was the first time he had seen Yueying so animatedly discussing her studies with a peer of her age.
Chapter 3: Marriage and a New Life
In the time that followed, the two spent more and more time together, learning and discussing side by side.
Zhuge Liang began to visit the Huang family frequently, and with each visit, he engaged in discussions on technology and scholarship with Yueying. Sometimes, their debates would stretch late into the night.
Yueying, receiving Zhuge Liang’s understanding and support in both her academic and technological pursuits, began to feel a growing sense of confidence within herself.
One day, Zhuge Liang formally proposed to Huang Cheng, requesting his daughter’s hand in marriage.
Zhuge Liang:
“Huang Cheng, I wish to contribute to bringing some stability to this chaotic world.”
“For that, much wisdom and cooperation are essential.”
“I humbly ask if you would grant me Yueying’s hand in marriage.”
“I truly believe her talents will be of great benefit to the world.”
Huang Cheng nodded with a pleased expression and looked toward Yueying.
Yueying, for a brief moment, showed a look of surprise, but then, as though making up her mind, she smiled gently.
Huang Yueying:
“I too resonate with your aspirations, Zhuge Kongming.”
“If it is acceptable to you, I would like to offer my support, though it may be small.”
Chapter 4: The Resolve for Marriage
In the Huang family’s garden, beneath the moonlight.
The night breeze quietly swept through the garden, and Huang Yueying stood alone, gazing up at the starry sky.
In her hand, she held a wooden gear prototype.
It was after that day—when Zhuge Liang had proposed—that she found herself stopping her work more often, lost in thought.
Huang Yueying:
“Marriage… Will I be able to fulfill the role of a wife?”
She had spent her life immersed in scholarship and invention.
But with marriage, the expectation would be to support her husband and take on the role of managing the household.
Wouldn’t that mean abandoning the life she had built for herself? — This anxiety crossed her mind.
Her mother, Wang Shi, appeared.
Seeing her daughter’s troubled expression, she sat down beside her.
Wang Shi:
“Yueying, are you lost in thought?”
Huang Yueying:
“…Yes. I was thinking about Zhuge Kongming’s proposal.”
“Mother… should I marry him?”
Wang Shi:
“Yueying, what do you want?”
Huang Yueying:
“I… want to continue learning with him.”
“But if I become his wife, I will have the role of supporting the family.”
“Is it possible for me to continue my studies?”
Wang Shi:
“He is a distinguished man.”
“He is knowledgeable and well-liked.”
“But, ultimately, the choice of how you live your life is yours.”
“You must think carefully about how you want to live.”
Yueying softly grasped her mother’s hand.
Huang Yueying:
“I… want to keep learning.”
“Like my father, I want to pursue knowledge and use my skills to help others.”
“But… I wonder if that will be allowed.”
Wang Shi:
“Whether it’s allowed or not, the one who decides is no one but you.”
“No matter what you choose, if it’s the path you decide, it will not be wrong.”
“If he truly cares for you, he will respect your path.”
Huang Yueying:
“…You’re right.”
“If it’s him, he might accept that I want to continue learning.”
With her mother’s words, Yueying’s doubts began to slowly fade.
Huang Yueying’s thoughts:
“That’s right, even if I marry, there’s no need to give up.”
“If it’s Zhuge Liang, he might walk this path with me—he might support me in continuing my journey.”
Huang Yueying:
“I want to be by Zhuge Kongming’s side, to learn together and carve a future together.”
Wang Shi:
“Be happy, Yueying.”
With that, Yueying made her decision to marry.
Thus, the two became husband and wife, and Yueying took on the role of supporting Zhuge Liang as he later rose to become the Chancellor of Shu Han.
People around them began to whisper, “The wife of the Crouching Dragon is a wise woman of great intellect.”
Chapter 5: The Wooden Oxen and Flowing Horses, and the Fate of Shu
With the establishment of Shu Han and Zhuge Liang’s appointment as Chancellor, the inevitable war with Wei, namely the Northern Campaign, became unavoidable.
The greatest challenge was the supply of food, weapons, and other necessary resources.
Zhuge Liang was tirelessly searching for an efficient method of transporting supplies.
From the mountainous lands of Shu to the distant battlefield, how could they safely transport the necessary materials?
In order to find the answer and contribute to the soldiers fighting alongside Zhuge Liang on the battlefield, Huang Yueying made a firm resolution to invent a solution herself.
She swore to create machines that would be useful on the battlefield and spent countless nights in her workshop, continuing her research.
One evening, the lights in her workshop remained on late into the night, and Huang Yueying was deep in thought as she assembled a wooden model.
Zhuge Liang, looking weary, visited her.
Zhuge Liang:
“Yueying, it’s already this late.”
“Why don’t you take a rest for a while?”
Huang Yueying:
“I’m sorry, but just a little longer.”
“This is a prototype of a transport device I’ve named the ‘Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse.'”
“If it’s completed, we’ll be able to carry heavy supplies without relying on oxen or horses.”
It should be useful even on the steep mountain paths…”
Zhuge Liang took the model in his hands and stared closely at its structure.
His expression softened, as though he were looking at a precious treasure.
Zhuge Liang:
“What an incredible concept.”
“It feels like the ideal form I’ve envisioned is right there.”
“Yueying, this is outstanding.”
Huang Yueying:
“Thank you.”
“But this design is still incomplete…”
“Honestly, I’m full of doubts about whether it will work as intended.”
Zhuge Liang:
“Don’t worry.”
“I will give my full support.”
“Once your invention is complete, it could save many soldiers.”
“Let’s proceed carefully, but never give up.”
Encouraged by his words, Yueying continued to work tirelessly, repeating trial and error every day.
Chapter 6: Early Prototypes and Failures
In the Huang family’s garden, the test of the prototype.
The next day, the prototype was completed.
It was moved into the garden of the workshop, and with the assistants watching, Huang Yueying carefully explained.
Huang Yueying:
“This ‘Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse’ is a machine that can transport goods without the use of oxen or horses.”
“It’s designed so that a person can push it lightly, and it will move forward with a constant amount of force.”
Soldier:
“How does it move?”
“What’s the difference from just a cart?”
Huang Yueying:
“It uses the principle of leverage and the mechanics of gears.”
“Inside, there is a rotating axle, and once pushed, it continues to move for a while due to inertia.”
“Additionally, on slopes, the gears prevent backward movement, keeping it from reversing.”
The soldiers watched with skepticism, and Yueying signaled to her assistant.
As the assistant pushed the prototype, the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse slowly moved forward.
However—
Crash!
Suddenly, one of the wheels tilted, and the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse lost its balance.
Assistant:
“Hey! It’s fallen over!”
Huang Yueying:
“…The center of gravity is still unstable.”
“If the weight of the load shifts, it will lose balance.”
With a sigh, Yueying crouched down and peered under the prototype, examining it closely.
Huang Yueying:
“To evenly distribute the weight of the load, I could place a weight in the center…”
“No, perhaps I should make the wheels wider and add a support axle for better stability…”
She quickly returned to the workshop and began working on the improvements.
Chapter 7: Improvement of the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse
Inside the workshop, Huang Yueying stood before the prototype with her assistant. She gazed at the model repeatedly, letting out a deep sigh.
Assistant:
“Madam, do you really think the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse can be moved by human hands?”
Huang Yueying:
“It can.”
“I’ve incorporated gears into the axle, using the pushing force to make it move forward.”
“But… there are still problems.”
Assistant:
“What kind of problems?”
Huang Yueying:
“The center of gravity is unstable.”
“The weight of the load causes it to sway back and forth.”
“That’s why it loses balance on slopes.”
The assistant gently pushed the prototype.
As expected, the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse moved forward, but it tilted slightly as it did.
Assistant:
“I see… This is quite a challenge.”
Huang Yueying:
“Yes, but there is a solution.”
“By adding a support axle and evenly distributing the weight, it should move much more steadily.”
Assistant:
“Incredible…”
“I never thought of that!”
“Shall we start the improvements right away?”
Huang Yueying:
“Yes. Let’s give it a try!”
And so, the improvement of the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse began.
Chapter 8: Resistance to the Invention of the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse
In the workshop, Huang Yueying was assembling the prototype of the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse.
At that moment, an older servant entered with a troubled expression on his face.
Servant:
“Madam, I apologize, but… may I have a word with you?”
Huang Yueying:
“Is something wrong?”
Servant:
“Actually… the villagers have been spreading some negative rumors about your research…”
Huang Yueying:
“Rumors?”
Servant:
“They say things like, ‘It’s unlucky for a woman to be making machines’ or ‘Instead of that, you should focus on household duties and support your husband.’…”
“We all respect you greatly, madam, but the villagers seem to feel differently…”
Yueying quietly clenched her fist.
However, she did not stop her work.
Huang Yueying:
“I expected this reaction…”
“Does my making machines seem like it’s taking away the work of men…?”
“…Then, I’ll show them with results. This is not just a pastime, but an invention that will help us survive on the battlefield.”
At that moment, the door to the workshop quietly opened.
Zhuge Liang entered, his eyes falling on her creation.
Zhuge Liang:
“I believe your invention will save the future of Shu.”
Huang Yueying:
“…Do you really think so?”
Zhuge Liang:
“Of course.”
“Your invention will become something that saves everyone.”
“No matter what others say, you should walk your own path.”
“I will support you.”
A warm feeling welled up in Yueying’s chest.
The path she had chosen was not wrong.
With this conviction, she began to move her hands again.
She failed countless times, and there were moments when she felt discouraged, thinking, “This won’t be useful.”
But with Zhuge Liang watching over her efforts and continuing to encourage her, Yueying pressed on, refusing to give up and continuing her trial and error.
One evening, Yueying finally completed the design of the self-propelled machine, the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse.
It was an innovative device, created to ensure that supply lines would not be cut off on the battlefield.
The next morning, when Yueying showed Zhuge Liang the prototype, he was deeply moved by its intricacy.
Zhuge Liang:
“This is the very tool that will save Shu!”
He exclaimed, praising her work.
Chapter 9: In Action
The day finally came when the improved Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse, developed by Huang Yueying, would be used in the Shu army’s supply operations.
On the battlefield, many soldiers struggled to transport supplies.
Then, the improved Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse made its appearance.
Zhuge Liang:
“Now, let’s give it a try.”
As the soldiers pushed, unlike before, the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse began to move forward steadily.
Even as they approached a slope, the anti-reversal gears worked flawlessly, allowing it to climb smoothly.
Soldier A:
“Incredible!”
“It moves with such little force, and the supplies stay intact!”
Soldier B:
“With this, we can supply our troops without using oxen or horses!”
A loud cheer rose from the soldiers.
Zhuge Liang gazed at Huang Yueying with a satisfied expression.
Zhuge Liang:
“Your wisdom is what supports the Shu army.”
Huang Yueying:
“If my invention can help the people… then I will have left a mark on this world.”
Yueying smiled, relieved, as she gazed out at the distant battlefield.
This invention supported the Shu army’s supply lines on the battlefield and became a key factor in turning the tide of the war in their favor.
Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse (Mu Niu Liu Ma)
The Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse (Mu Niu Liu Ma) was an innovative transport device allegedly designed by Zhuge Liang, the renowned strategist of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period.
As its name suggests, it was a wooden mechanism resembling an ox or horse, created to transport military supplies without relying on live animals.
The most remarkable feature of this invention was its ability to move with minimal effort, requiring no external power source.
It was engineered with a unique system of wheels and weight distribution, allowing it to traverse rugged terrain and mountainous paths smoothly.
This made it an essential tool for securing stable logistics and supply lines during long military campaigns.
Soldiers marveled at its design, noting how it moved as if it were a living creature.
The Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse played a crucial role in supporting the Shu army, proving that in times of war, victory depended not only on strategy and force but also on efficient resource management.
This remarkable invention became a testament to Zhuge Liang’s ingenuity and his unparalleled ability to adapt military tactics to the demands of warfare.
Chapter 10: The Role on the Battlefield
Dark clouds loomed over the battlefield.
The Shu army’s supply unit advanced along the mountain path, growing increasingly anxious.
Soldier A:
“This is bad…”
“The Wei army is trying to block our supply route.”
Soldier B:
“The units using oxen and horses are more vulnerable to enemy ambushes.”
“What should we do?”
At that moment, a unit pushing the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse approaches from the rear.
The commander gathers the soldiers and shouts orders.
Commander:
“Don’t worry!”
“We have the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse!”
Soldier C:
“The Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse?”
“Can that strange wooden cart help us break through the Wei army’s siege?”
At that moment, Zhuge Liang calmly explained.
Zhuge Liang:
“The Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse was designed to navigate the rugged mountain paths that cavalry cannot traverse.”
“On this route, even the Wei army’s large forces will struggle to move.”
With the commander’s orders, the soldiers began pushing the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse forward.
The mountain path was narrow, and no regular carts could make it through.
However, the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse moved steadily, continuing to transport the supplies without faltering.
The Wei army scouts spotted it and hurriedly returned to report.
Wei Army Scout:
“Report!”
“The Shu army is transporting supplies, but they’re using strange carts that move in an unusual way!”
The Wei army commander furrowed his brow.
Wei Army Commander:
“Strange carts?”
“If they’re just regular carts, they should be able to delay their advance.”
In reality, the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse moved quickly, ascending the mountain path smoothly.
The Wei army tried to pursue, but in the narrow path, their cavalry couldn’t move freely.
In the end, the Wei army was unable to cut off the supply route, and the Shu army successfully transported the supplies.
The soldiers receiving the supplies erupted in joy.
Soldier A:
“Without this, we might have had to fight while starving.”
Soldier B:
“I never would have thought that such a simple cart could change the course of the battle…”
Zhuge Liang:
“This is the fruit of Yueying’s wisdom.”
With a smile, Zhuge Liang gazed into the distance.
Chapter 11: “Huang Yueying’s Doubts”
On the night when the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse was officially deployed in battle, Huang Yueying sat alone in her workshop, quietly gazing at the wooden model.
Upon hearing the report from the battlefield, she learned that the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse had successfully delivered the supplies.
Yet, even after hearing the news, a storm of complex emotions swirled within her heart.
She stared intently at the design blueprint of the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse spread out on the desk and murmured softly.
Huang Yueying:
“This invention… will it just lead more people to the battlefield?”
“If I hadn’t created it, the Shu army might have been cut off from supplies and unable to fight…”
“Would that have been better… ?”
“If the Shu army couldn’t fight, perhaps this war would have ended sooner.”
“Certainly, with the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse, the Shu army can withstand a long-term war.”
“But doesn’t that mean the war will continue?”
Closing her eyes, a heavy feeling suddenly pressed against her chest.
The invention meant to support the war effort… could it be the very thing prolonging the war? This thought tormented her.
At that moment, Zhuge Liang entered the workshop.
Zhuge Liang:
“Yueying, you’re still awake?”
Huang Yueying:
“Yes, I was just thinking about something…”
Zhuge Liang:
“Thinking about something?”
“What’s on your mind?”
Huang Yueying:
“…Am I doing the right thing?”
Zhuge Liang:
“…Why do you think that?”
She gently stroked the model as she murmured.
Huang Yueying:
“I created this invention to end the war.”
“But… what if this invention is actually prolonging the war?”
“Certainly, my invention helped the supply lines succeed.”
“But if the Shu army had been cut off from supplies, the war might have ended.”
“If I hadn’t invented the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse, perhaps this war would have ended sooner.”
Zhuge Liang was silent for a moment.
Then, he spoke quietly.
Zhuge Liang:
“The war will eventually end.”
“But until it does, those who fight are needed.”
“Without your invention, many would have starved and lost their lives.”
“The war will end only when those who fight survive.”
“If the supplies were cut off, and our soldiers starved, do you think the Wei army would show mercy and accept our surrender?”
Huang Yueying was at a loss for words.
Zhuge Liang:
“War is unavoidable.”
“But your invention supports those who fight and reduces unnecessary deaths.”
“Without your wisdom, many more would have starved and fallen on the battlefield.”
“Your wisdom is not aiding senseless killing.”
“It’s giving those who fight the strength to survive with at least a glimmer of hope.”
She quietly closed her eyes and took a deep breath.
Huang Yueying:
“…I will do what I must.”
“To save even a few who are on the battlefield.”
Zhuge Liang:
“That’s exactly why you are my proud wife.”
Zhuge Liang smiled gently.
Chapter 12: The Wei Army’s Blockade of the Supply Lines and the Shu Army’s Flanking Strategy
The Wei army commander, Zhang He, stood before a battlefield map, strategizing with his subordinates.
Zhang He:
“I’ve received reports that the Shu army’s supply units are using strange carts, correct?”
Wei Army Scout:
“Yes.”
“They’re transporting supplies without oxen or horses, using wooden wheels.”
“It seems they can move even on narrow mountain paths.”
Zhang He:
“I see… In that case, we must come up with a countermeasure.”
As he traced his finger over the map of the mountain range, Zhang He smirked.
Zhang He:
“If we cut off their supply lines, the Shu army will suffer from hunger.”
“Then, we’ll block their supply route completely and obstruct the path of the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse.”
“Place an ambush at the exit of the narrow mountain path.”
“We will lure their supply unit into passing through there.”
Wei Army Soldier:
“Understood!”
The Wei army stationed soldiers at the exit of the mountain path, preparing to trap the Shu army’s Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse.
At the Shu army’s camp, the supply unit commander and Zhuge Liang were strategizing.
A scout rushed back and presented a report.
Shu Army Scout:
“The Wei army has placed an ambush at the exit of the supply route!”
“If we continue as planned, the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse will be captured along with the supplies!”
Commander:
“What should we do?”
“We’ve come so far with the supplies, but if we stop here, the soldiers will starve…”
However, Zhuge Liang remained calm.
Zhuge Liang:
“Hmm…”
“The Wei army is trying to trap our supply unit.”
“However, the mountain path is narrow.”
“We have other options.”
“The Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse can pass through even narrower paths than regular carts.”
“So, instead of charging straight ahead, we’ll take an uncharted animal trail and bypass them.”
Soldier A:
“An animal trail?”
“That’s not a path suitable for an army to travel through…”
Zhuge Liang:
“No, with the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse, it is possible.”
“It moves with just a push from a person, and its center of gravity is stable.”
“If we send soldiers ahead to clear the path, it should be able to move without issue.”
Commander:
“Understood.”
“We will split the forces, send a reconnaissance unit ahead, and clear the path for the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse.”
The soldiers immediately sprang into action.
The Shu army’s supply unit appeared on the mountain path where the Wei army had set their ambush.
Wei Army Soldier:
“They’ve come!”
“They’ve fallen into the trap!”
The Wei army prepared to charge.
However, it was a decoy.
The main Shu supply unit, with the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse, was moving through the animal trail in the forest behind, advancing steadily.
Wei Army Commander:
“What!?”
“They’re flanking us!?”
“How could they possibly navigate through such mountains…?”
The Wei army hurriedly attempted to pursue, but the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse moved steadily, crossing the mountains and avoiding the Wei army’s encirclement.
As a result, the Shu army successfully delivered the supplies, and the Wei army suffered a strategic defeat.
Zhuge Liang smiled gently and murmured to himself.
Zhuge Liang:
“Yueying’s invention has saved the battle once again.”
Chapter 13: “Zhuge Liang’s Strategy Surpassing the Wei Army’s Plans”
Wei Army Commander, Zhang He, upon hearing that the Shu army had discovered and was using the animal trail for a flanking maneuver, immediately began to devise a new strategy.
Zhang He:
“The Shu army is using the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse to bypass through the mountain paths…”
“In that case, we’ll turn that to our advantage.”
“We’ll create a decoy force disguised as a supply unit.”
“Once the Shu army advances through the mountain path, we’ll launch a pincer attack.”
“Additionally, place an ambush at the top of the mountain, and roll rocks down to block their path.”
Wei Army Lieutenant:
“But the mountain paths are narrow, and timing the rolling of the rocks might be difficult, wouldn’t it?”
Zhang He:
“No, we will make it work.”
“The Shu army will be focused on flanking and bypassing.”
“They won’t expect a trap there as well.”
The Wei army quickly moved into position, waiting for the right moment when the Shu army entered the animal trail.
As the Shu army advanced through the animal trail, suddenly, right before them, appeared the Wei army’s decoy supply unit.
Shu Army Scout:
“We’ve discovered the enemy’s supply unit!”
“This is the perfect opportunity!”
The soldiers raised their morale, but Zhuge Liang immediately sensed something was wrong.
Zhuge Liang:
“…No, wait.”
“This is a trap.”
Commander:
“Why do you think so?”
Zhuge Liang:
“The Wei army must have known we were taking the animal trail.”
“They must have anticipated that we would find their supply unit…”
At that moment, a low rumbling sound, “Gogogo…” echoed from above.
Shu Army Soldier:
“The rocks are coming down!”
“There are ambushers!”
The Wei army had rolled rocks down from the mountaintop, attempting to block the path the moment the Shu army reached the middle of the animal trail.
However, Zhuge Liang had already anticipated this move and had prepared a counterstrategy.
Zhuge Liang:
“Spread out to the sides!”
“Move along the mountain’s edge before the rocks hit!”
The Shu army quickly moved to the sides, narrowly avoiding the falling rocks.
In that split second, the Wei army’s ambush troops rushed forward.
Wei Army Soldier:
“Now, attack!”
However, the Shu army was already in motion.
Shu Army Soldier:
“We knew they would come!”
The Shu army had previously positioned a separate unit on the opposite side of the mountain.
The moment the Wei army’s ambush troops charged, the Shu army’s separate unit launched a sudden assault from behind.
Wei Army Soldier:
“What!? The Shu army is behind us…?!”
The Wei army’s ambush was thrown into disarray, and Zhang He’s plan completely collapsed.
Zhuge Liang quietly murmured.
Zhuge Liang:
“If the Wei army sets a trap, we simply go one step further.”
In this way, the Shu army saw through the Wei army’s strategy and successfully protected their supply lines.
Chapter 13: “Conflict and Reconciliation”
When the prototype of the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse was first being developed, the men of the village were causing a commotion in front of the workshop.
Villager A:
“A woman making machines?”
“It’s bad luck!”
Villager B:
“Instead of spending time on that, she should focus on household duties and support her husband.”
Huang Yueying looked at the villagers with a calm gaze and let out a deep sigh.
Huang Yueying:
“Have you ever thought about how the soldiers who went to war will survive?”
“For the soldiers, whether supplies arrive or not is a matter of life and death.”
“If the supply lines fail, they will starve and fall, unable to fight.”
Villager A:
“That may be true, but…”
Huang Yueying:
“The Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse is meant to assist with those supplies.” Who makes it doesn’t matter.”
“What matters is whether it can save lives.”
At that moment, a soldier returned from a distant battle, panting heavily, and spoke to the villagers.
Returning Soldier:
“If it weren’t for Madam Huang’s invention, we might have starved!”
“Thanks to the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse, we were able to break through the Wei army’s siege!”
The villagers looked at each other in surprise.
After a moment of silence, Villager A, who had been the first to complain, bowed deeply.
Villager A:
“…I’m sorry.”
“We spoke without knowing anything, just talking for the sake of it.”
Villager B:
“It doesn’t matter whether it’s a woman or a man…”
Huang Yueying smiled gently and quietly responded.
Huang Yueying:
“When working for someone, gender doesn’t matter.”
“What’s important is how much your wisdom and effort can help others.”
In that moment, the villagers truly recognized her.
Huang Yueying was no longer just “the daughter of the Huang family,” but had become a crucial figure in supporting Shu Han.
Chapter 14: “The Northern Campaign and My Husband’s Strategy”
As the Northern Campaign continued, Yueying grew increasingly concerned about her husband, Zhuge Liang, as she saw him becoming more and more exhausted.
While she didn’t want to push him too hard, she continued to support his strategies and efforts. However, the prolonged war began to take a toll on her own mind and body as well, and amidst her worries, she came to a renewed understanding of her own role in the ongoing conflict.
Huang Yueying:
“I want to support this country alongside Zhuge Liang.
“No matter what difficulties lie ahead, I will stand by him and dedicate myself to protecting Shu.”
With renewed resolve, Yueying poured all of her wisdom into overcoming the challenges of the war, determined to contribute to their victory.
Chapter 15: “Parting and What Lies Ahead”
While Huang Yueying continued to support her husband, she began to struggle with her health.
Nevertheless, she remained deeply focused on her inventions and improvements.
One day, when Zhuge Liang returned from his expedition, Yueying lay in bed, greeting him in a weak voice.
Huang Yueying:
“Welcome home.”
“How is the war going now?”
Zhuge Liang:
“The road ahead is still long, but thanks to your Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse, the supplies continue to flow.”
“The soldiers are also grateful for the portable tools you devised.”
Huang Yueying:
“Even if I make a small contribution, if the war could end sooner… that would be the greatest outcome.”
Zhuge Liang:
“Without you, I wouldn’t have made it this far.”
“Shu Han might have had to pay an even greater price.”
Yueying lay quietly, gazing at her husband with half-open eyes.
Zhuge Liang gripped her hand tighter, his voice trembling.
Zhuge Liang:
“Yueying… I’m sorry.”
“I’ve made you so tired…”
Huang Yueying:
“It’s not your fault.”
“I’ve been happy, living alongside you…”
Zhuge Liang:
“Without you, I wouldn’t have made it this far.”
Huang Yueying:
“That’s not true.”
“You’ve supported the country with your wisdom.”
“I’ve only lit a small part of your path.”
Zhuge Liang:
“I… I can’t bear the thought of losing you.”
Huang Yueying:
“You’ll be fine.”
“You will surely protect this country until the very end.”
Zhuge Liang:
“…Thank you, Yueying.”
Yueying gently squeezed his hand in return, quietly closing her eyes.
In the silence, she passed away peacefully.
Zhuge Liang deeply mourned her passing, but with her aspirations and inventions in his heart, he once again turned towards the battlefield.
The war did not cease, and Yueying quietly closed her life, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom and sacrifice.
The inventions and wisdom she left behind were passed down through the generations, becoming a foundation for the future of Shu Han.
Her innovations, including the Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse, were not merely tactical weapons; they were also the spiritual pillars necessary for surviving the war.
Yueying’s name, as a wise wife and inventor, was passed down through the generations, becoming a legacy remembered by people for years to come.
Epilogue: What Huang Yueying Left Behind
The Wooden Ox and Flowing Horse, along with many of Huang Yueying’s ingenious creations, continued to support Shu Han long after her time.
Her intelligence and devotion were etched into the hearts of the people as the embodiment of a “wise wife” during the tumultuous era.
As the people who survived the chaos passed down her accomplishments, they eventually began to say:
“Without Huang Yueying, there would have been no future for Shu.”
If you look up at the starry sky, you will see the unchanging laws of the heavens.
Yet, stronger than the movement of the stars was the will of humans to change the chaotic world.
The person who demonstrated that strength was the woman known as Huang Yueying.
Author: Fuji
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I’m a passionate blogger who loves diving deep into human history and sharing captivating stories about remarkable figures and events from the past. My blog combines engaging storytelling with beautiful illustrations, making history accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
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Author: Fuji
Human history is truly complex, isn’t it?
There are countless websites introducing historical figures and events,
but many of them are just plain explanations—not exactly exciting to read.
On the other hand, reading books takes a lot of time and effort.
That’s where I come in.
Through “stories that are more engaging than explanations and shorter than books,”
I aim to bring the world’s history and humanity’s records to you in a more accessible and interesting way.
If my stories inspire you to love history a little more, I’d be absolutely thrilled!
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