The foreign powers could ultimately no longer restrain their burning ambition and fired the first shot of military provocation. At dawn, before the morning light had fully dispelled the gloom of night, deafening artillery fire erupted along the border. The sound, like a thunderous roar, instantly shattered the morning silence. The foreign armies surged toward the borders of the Great Qing like a violent, overwhelming tide. Relying on advanced artillery, they wantonly launched round after round of fierce bombardment against the border fortifications. In an instant, the frontier was choked with smoke and dust, and the once peaceful land was transformed into a sea of fire.
The commanders on the front lines did not dare to delay, urgently sending word back to the imperial court with voices full of resolve and urgency: "Your Majesty, the foreign powers have brazenly launched an attack. The enemy's firepower is exceptionally fierce, and our forward defensive positions have already suffered severe damage. However, our troops are in high spirits, all determined to fight to the death, and are currently resisting with grim tenacity!"
Upon receiving the report, Su Ran remained calm and composed, his eyes revealing determination and resolve. He made an immediate decision and issued orders: "Pass down the word: the soldiers must hold their ground and maintain their composure. Use existing fortifications to return fire with discipline. Notify the artillery units in the rear immediately; …
Chapter 210