DK - China Through Time

(Amelia) #1
9

The roofs of the assault wagons are covered with cow hide to withstand fire. Wagang soldiers defending the beacon tower have lit a fire to alert friendly forces that help is needed.


With its long spikes, the “Wolf’s-Teeth Crusher” is a lethal weapon. Outnumbered, the soldiers throw rocks at any invaders their swords cannot reach. The Wagang defenders have begun digging an escape tunnel.


The Liyang granary is one of the biggest along the Grand Canal, with grain stores to feed 80,000 people a year.


Granary Attack!


Liyang, 618 ce


Emperor Yang of Sui is dead, killed by his
once-loyal troops, and China is in chaos, at the
mercy of powerful warlords. The rebel soldiers
march east to take control of the capital but soon
run out of rations. Desperate, the hungry troops
lay siege to the huge granary store at Liyang on
the Grand Canal, which is occupied by another
rebel force, the Wagang Army. The attack
succeeds, but both armies pay a heavy price.
After this, the Tang Army will conquer China.

Beacon
tower

Wagang Army camp

Wagang guards

Tunnel
diggers

Rampart

Grain storage

US_008-009_Granary_Attack.indd 9 30/07/2019 15:
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