Way of Overlord
Chapter 227: Western Zhou

Chapter 227: Western Zhou

On the other side of the Great Steppe, there is Western Zhou.

This is another power that wanted to compete in this area and they too have great ambition

Western Zhou is a powerful kingdom.

If not, how could it resist being assimilated into the Yan dynasty after all of this time.

The Zhou royal family is Ji.

There is also a few Ji family that take refuge in Yan.

But the orthodox royal family of Western Zhou is Ji family

They were a part of the Xun dynasty before breaking off completely during the battle of contention between Southern Zhao and Northern Yan

And since then, they remain independent.

In the annals of Western Zhou’s history, a Chapter of notable significance unfolds during the nascent years of the Yan dynasty, where the former nearly achieved dominance over the north-western expanse of Yan.

This early surge, though ultimately repelled by Yan emperor

However, this event left an indelible mark on the geopolitical landscape of the region. And it also informed the Yan of the dangers of the Western Zhou.

Despite Western Zhou’s territorial scope not rivalling the expansive Yan Empire in size, the kingdom deftly maintains strategic advantages that resonate through time.

Situated in close proximity to the Great Steppe, Western Zhou has harnessed the inherent advantages of its geographical position or to be more accurate, the inherent advantage of their neighbours.

the kingdom has assimilated key aspects of the Steppe’s military traditions, particularly the art of mounted warfare.

The adoption of the Steppe way of fighting on horseback has emerged as a distinctive feature of Western Zhou’s military prowess.

It is the reason why Yan could not get rid out of Western Zhou even though they are larger than Western Zhou.

This strategic incorporation of cavalry tactics has endowed the kingdom with a formidable edge in manoeuvrability and adaptability on the battlefield.

And the Western Zhou also have a large breeding ground for horses and they uses it to breed warhorses for their army

Within the expansive domains of Western Zhou in the northern part of the old Xun empire, a change had occurred during the early years of the formation of the Western Zhou

At that time, there is any obstacles for the Western Zhou.

From the constant attack by Yan dynasty who wanted to reclaim one last part of the Old Empire and the raids by the Great Steppe tribes, the second Emperor of the Western Zhou was visited by a wise man

This wise man is Xu Yan who also become the Prime Minister of Western Zhou during that time

Xu Yan is one of the lineages of the Xu of Beixuan and he was the one that advises the Emperor at that time and help Western Zhou not only maintain their independence, he help repels the Yan forces, and expand the land of the Western Zhou and his effort even force Yan to recognize Western Zhou as a kingdom separate from the Yan dynasty

At that time, this was also the time when Prime Minister Xu Yan began a series of operation that shows his strategic vision that would give them advantage for the later years

One of his ideas is to create a vast breeding ground to cultivate horses. The area itself is very suitable for breeding horse

And why does this seem necessary? Because the Western Zhou wanted to cultivate a formidable cavalry force.

The primary impetus behind establishing these breeding grounds for horses was the foresight of Western Zhou Prime Minister Xu and driven by a long-standing ambition by the Emperor to reclaim the coveted Central Plains from the Yan Empire.

Recognizing the indispensable role of cavalry in such endeavours, the kingdom invested in the deliberate breeding and training of warhorses to constitute a powerful equestrian force.

While the breeding grounds were conceived with the overarching goal of reclaiming the Central Plains, circumstances dictated a more immediate application of the burgeoning cavalry.

The exigencies of fending off Steppe invaders compelled Western Zhou to deploy its well-bred warhorses in defense of its borders.

This unintended adaptation showcased the Prime Minister Xu pragmatic approach, turning a planned asset for future conquest into a vital component for present-day defense.

The daunting challenges lying between Western Zhou and the heart of the Yan Empire, however, have thus far deterred any overt attempts at advancing into the Central Plains.

The intricate web of geographical impediments and political complexities renders the journey a formidable undertaking, prompting Western Zhou to judiciously weigh its options and bide its time.

The time has lasted for hundreds of years. In those years since the reform of the Prime Minister Xu, there is rise and fall.

There were times when Western Zhou is on the verge of collapse

There were times, when there is a great resurgence and there is even one time in the history of Western Zhou, where the possibility of marching toward the Central Plains was a possibility.

This was during the rebellion of the Great Steppe people towards Yan.

That was the best opportunity for Western Zhou to swept the northern border of Yan and marches down toward the Central Plains.

But it was at that time, their Emperor dies of old age, and his descendant fight against each other, nearly fracturing the Western Zhou into pieces.

It is funny how sometimes history repeats itself. One thing that some historian had learned is that history is repeated again even if there is example from the past

Because even though those who forget history are doomed to repeat it, even those who knows history would still repeat it.

Because people never learn from their mistake, because people rarely change

In the contemporary era of Western Zhou, a palpable sense of tranquility prevails over the kingdom, marking a decade of relative peace.

While intermittent skirmishes persist along the borders, with occasional clashes against the Yan Empire and strategic raids into the Steppe territories, the majority of Western Zhou’s populace, especially those residing in the capital and more distant regions, perceive their nation as dwelling in a state of peace.

This prevailing calm is not merely the absence of open conflict but also a testament to the stability and security maintained by the army of the Western Zhou and the rule of a wise Emperor.

The resolute efforts to fortify borders and navigate diplomatic complexities have contributed to a sense of assurance among the citizens.

The occasional clashes, whether defensive against Yan incursions or assertive in Steppe territories, are viewed as necessary measures to safeguard Western Zhou’s interests rather than indicative of a pervasive threat to the kingdom’s internal harmony.

The capital, bustling with commerce, culture, and governance, serves as a microcosm of the broader sentiment.

Life unfolds with a semblance of normalcy, and the citizenry, insulated from the immediate impacts of border conflicts, enjoys the fruits of a period marked by stability and civic development.

This era of peace does not only signify a temporary respite from external challenges but also presents an opportunity for Western Zhou to focus on internal matters.

The kingdom can channel its energies into furthering economic prosperity, cultural advancement, and social cohesion.

unlike the Yan dynasty, they never let down their guard and remains steadfast in guarding their borders

It seems like they would have a chance to compete for the world when chaos came. At least this is true for the past few months.

It is not true now.

Chaos now have come but a different kind of problem unfolded in the Western Zhou royal family

A succession problem plagued the royal family of the Western Zhou.

The reign of the current Emperor of Western Zhou stands as a testament to sagacious leadership and astute governance.

His judicious rule has been marked by a series of strategic triumphs, consolidating the stability and prosperity of the kingdom.

In the face of formidable challenges posed by the Great Steppe barbarians, the Emperor exhibited remarkable resilience, skilfully repelling their attacks and securing the borders.

This prowess not only safeguarded the realm but also demonstrated a keen understanding of military strategy and the dynamics of nomadic incursions.

He is also very adept at using tribal politics of the great Steppe to make sure that none of the Steppe tribes have enough influence or power to unite.

His ability to go into battle gave the people under his rule confidence towards him as a military leader

He also expand the empire

The southern expansion undertaken under his guidance reflects a strategic vision, as Western Zhou claimed several cities from the Yan Empire.

This territorial gain not only bolstered the kingdom geopolitical standing but also showcased the Emperor’s ability to capitalize on opportunities for expansion.

Equally impressive is the pacification of the western regions, bringing a long-sought tranquillity to areas that had historically experienced unrest during the reign of previous Emperors.

The Emperor’s diplomatic finesse and commitment to internal stability manifested in the suppression of factional politics within the court and the quelling of rebellions that had plagued his father’s reign.

A pivotal aspect of the current emperor legacy is the revitalization of the kingdom’s economy.

Through shrewd economic policies and reforms, he breathed new life into trade, agriculture, and commerce, ushering in a decade-long period of prosperity.

The ten years of economic growth not only elevated the standard of living for the populace but also solidified Western Zhou’s standing as a flourishing and influential state.

This Emperor is Emperor Ji Yan

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