SFS Chapter 695: Abandoning Nagasaki and Defending Fukuoka
Chapter 695: Abandoning Nagasaki and Defending Fukuoka
Tojo Yuei sat in the study of the Prime Minister's Office. The sunlight outside the window was blocked by heavy curtains, and the room seemed particularly dim, which coincided with his mood at the moment. On the table, Yamashita Tomoyuki's strategy report lay quietly, and the handwriting on the cover seemed to reveal a sense of urgency that could not be ignored. Tojo Yuei took a deep breath, slowly opened the heavy report, and read it word by word.
As he read deeper, his brows furrowed more and more, and a trace of worry flashed in his eyes from time to time. Yamashita Tomoyuki's strategy was indeed as bold as he expected, almost crazy. Giving up the Nagasaki area was not only a military decision, but also a major decision involving the national economy and people's livelihood. The relocation of millions of residents, the abandonment of important military ports and cities, every detail was enough to shake the entire Fuso Empire.
However, Tojo had to admit that Yamashita Tomoyuki's profound insight in the letter was admirable. He analyzed in detail China's current military strength, strategic intentions, and possible tactical layout, and used data and facts to prove the disastrous consequences of going to war in the Nagasaki area. This in-depth analysis forced Tojo to re-examine the current situation, with mixed feelings in his heart.
He put down the report, folded his hands over his chest, and closed his eyes in deep thought. As the Prime Minister of Fuso, he knew that he had a heavy responsibility on his shoulders. Every decision could affect the fate of the country and even lead to unpredictable consequences. Although abandoning Nagasaki could avoid a possible disastrous defeat, the cost behind it was also huge, and it might even shake the people's hearts and affect the stability of the empire.
After a long period of thinking, Tojo Yuei finally made up his mind. He knew that such a major decision could not be undertaken by himself alone. He needed the support of a higher authority and the consensus of the whole country. So he picked up a pen and began to draft a memorial on a piece of letter paper, ready to report the matter to His Majesty the Emperor.
In the memorial, Tojo Yuei detailed the content of Yamashita Tomoyuki's strategy and his own careful consideration of it. He expressed his deep concern for the safety of the country and his absolute trust in the wisdom of His Majesty the Emperor. He believed that only His Majesty the Emperor could make the final decision and lead the Fuso Empire on the right path.
After writing the memorial, Tojo ordered it to be sent to the Imperial Palace immediately, and personally arranged an emergency meeting to convene important cabinet ministers to discuss the matter. He knew that the next few days would be a critical moment to determine the fate of the Fuso Empire, and he must be fully prepared to meet the upcoming challenges.
When Tojo Yuei received the news that the Emperor had summoned him, he could not help but feel a mixture of surprise and trepidation. He quickly tidied up his appearance and stepped into the solemn and mysterious Emperor's Palace.
Inside the palace, Emperor Ninto sat upright on the throne, holding the memorial about Yamashita Tomoyuki's strategy in his hand. His face was calm and profound, as if he could see through everything in the world.
"Prime Minister Tojo, what do you think of this strategy?" The Emperor's voice was gentle but powerful, breaking the silence in the room.
Tojo Takehiro bowed and replied respectfully: "Your Majesty, I am deeply worried about this strategy. The far-reaching impact of abandoning the Nagasaki area cannot be fully described in words. However, General Yamashita Tomoyuki's strategy, with extraordinary insight and courage, avoided a possible disaster for the empire. I am worried about the consequences, but I have to admit its rationality."
He paused and continued, "Regarding General Yamashita Tomoyuki himself, although he was born in a farming family, he won wide respect in the army with his outstanding talents and unremitting efforts. However, as Your Majesty knows, there are indeed some generals of noble origin in the army who are prejudiced against him. This conflict with General Muto Akira may be a manifestation of this prejudice."
At this point, Tojo Yuei was slightly startled, as if he realized the subtle partiality in his words. But Emperor Jindong did not mind, instead he showed a thoughtful smile.
"Oh? Do you think this is due to prejudice?" The emperor's tone was somewhat amusing. "I heard that during that conflict, General Yamashita Tomoyuki showed extraordinary decisiveness and courage. Not only did he dare to challenge authority, he was also able to convince people with reason. This is admirable."
Hearing this, Tojo Yuei secretly breathed a sigh of relief. He did not expect the Emperor to have such a high opinion of Yamashita Tomoyuki, which made him look forward to the following conversation.
"Your Majesty is right. General Yamashita Tomoyuki is indeed a rare talent." Tojo Takehide took the opportunity to say, "Although his strategy is bold and radical, every step has been carefully considered, and his analysis of the enemy situation is very insightful. I think it is undoubtedly a wise move to appoint him as the commander of the Kyushu Army."
Emperor Jindong nodded slightly, his eyes flashing with approval. "Prime Minister Tojo, your opinion coincides with mine." He said slowly, "In this era of crisis, we need more courageous and decisive generals like Yamashita Tomoyuki to lead our army. Although his strategy is risky, as you said, sometimes, in order to achieve greater victory, we must dare to give up something in front of us."
After saying this, Emperor Jindong waved his hand, signaling Tojo Takehida to leave. Tojo Takehida bowed again, and he had already understood.
Emperor Jindong sat in his study. The night outside the window was as dark as ink. Everything was silent. Only the soft light in the study shone on his face, reflecting a touch of determination and resoluteness. He held the telephone receiver tightly in his hand, and his heart was filled with unprecedented complex emotions.
On the other end of the phone was Yamashita Tomoyuki, a young general far away in Kyushu, known for his extraordinary strategic vision and firm determination.
"General Yamashita, I am Emperor Jinto." The emperor's voice was steady and powerful, penetrating the obstruction of the telephone line and reaching Yamashita Tomoyuki's ears directly.
Upon hearing this, Yamashita Fengwen immediately straightened up and stood in awe. "Your Majesty, I am Yamashita Fengwen, listening to your teachings." His voice revealed an excitement and pride that was difficult to conceal.
"General Yamashita, I have read your strategic report in detail and I admire your thoughtfulness and foresight." Emperor Jindong said straight to the point, "I would like to discuss the details of this strategy with you and hear your specific ideas."
Yamashita Tomoyuki felt a warm current in his heart when he heard this. He knew very well that this was the emperor's great trust and affirmation of him. So, he unreservedly told him his thoughts: "Your Majesty, I foresaw that the war might break out in the mainland a year ago. For this reason, I specifically analyzed their offensive strategies and routes from the perspective of China, and dug a large number of defensive fortifications inside the mountains in the Fukuoka area in advance. These fortifications, combined with the dense defensive lines, will be able to block the Chinese army to the greatest extent."
Yamashita Tomoyuki's words were full of confidence and determination. He described in detail the layout of the fortifications, the firepower configuration, and the subsequent tactical arrangements. Every detail was carefully planned by him, striving to make it foolproof.
Emperor Jindong listened quietly, nodding his head from time to time to show his agreement. When Yamashita Tomoyuki finished speaking, he was silent for a moment, as if he was thinking about something. Then, he slowly said: "General Yamashita, your strategy makes me very happy. I personally authorize you to act at your discretion. In the Kyushu Army, anyone who dares to disobey your will can be punished by military law on the spot. I believe in your ability and wisdom, and you will definitely lead the Kyushu Army through the difficulties and protect our Fuso territory."
This sentence was like a shot of adrenaline, which made Yamashita Tomoyuki feel extremely excited. He knew the weight and responsibility of this power, and also understood the challenges and difficulties he would face. But he did not back down, but instead strengthened his belief: "Your Majesty, rest assured, I will do my best to live up to your high expectations. Even if I die, I will ensure that Kyushu will not be lost!"