The smell of fresh blood permeated the air. Although the weather was cold, the smell lingered for a long time.
Boyan stood in front of the Khan's tent, staring with his blood-red eyes like a wild beast. Hundreds of dead warhorses lay on the snowy plain, blood flowing out and staining the ground red.
The loot they had seized this time had been used up. They should have retreated in time, but in order to wait for the Ming Emperor's final attack, the tens of thousands of troops had been hesitating. Now that all the supplies had been used up, the soldiers could only rely on the grass, rats, wolves, and hares dug out from the snowy plain to survive.
The tens of thousands of troops dug up the fat and big rats all over the mountains and plains, using knives to pry them open and water to irrigate them. It was a vigorous national campaign to exterminate the rats. The grassland rats dug holes and lived in groups. During the winter, a big gerbil had to store dozens of kilograms of hay. The places where the rat infestation occurred were crisscrossed with tunnels and serious soil erosion. Some even formed a "rat wasteland" where not even a blade of grass grew. Looking at the current situation, the rat infestation had been cleared. The grassland outside Datong must be full of water and grass in spring.
Now the soldiers had no clothes to cover their bodies and food to fill their stomachs. If the tribal chiefs did not know that the Emperor Ming Destiny was just across the Great Wall and thus strictly suppressed their subordinates, there would have been a mutiny.
With eyebrows like the distant mountains in autumn and eyes like limpid autumn water, Salimu Zhuoer walked lightly to Boyan and said worriedly, "Khan …"
His heavy breathing calmed down. Boyan looked back and smiled, his eyes regaining their former calmness and shrewdness. He proudly said to the tribal chiefs and soldiers in front of him in a loud voice, "We have been fighting hard outside Datong for nearly 60 days. Our soldiers and horses are tired and we are short of provisions. Why don't we return to our grassland?"
His sharp eyes swept around and pointed in the direction of Datong. He laughed and said, "Because the Emperor Ming Destiny is behind the mountain. The Great Wall on the mountain is a strong barrier for the Han people. The Emperor Ming Destiny is another Great Wall in the hearts of the Han people. If the Emperor dies, the world will be in chaos.
Now the opportunity has come! Our spies will open the gates of resistance. I will personally lead the army to launch a surprise attack on Mount Baideng. The heroic General Huo Zhai will attack Datong. The impregnable Datong Castle will also have our men. They will open the west gate and welcome our army in. The most delicious wine and beautiful women will be waiting for us there to enjoy!
Boys, occupy this big city, attack Taiyuan to the south, attack Xuanhua to the north, half of the country will be easily obtained. Dadu will return to our embrace, and the Central Plains will once again become our pasture. Come, every Han will become a slave who sleeps beside your tent, every Han woman will respectfully offer her first night to you, the property and women of the Han people will be at your disposal! "
The wolf-like howls rose and fell under Bayan's instigation. The desire to conquer and plunder reignited in the hearts of every Tatar warrior. Bayan looked with satisfaction at the warriors who had regained their murderous and fighting spirit. He waved his hand and shouted, "Drink snow water and eat horse meat. All warriors will have a full meal. When the sun rises on the mountain, we will kill our way into the pass!"
The bloodthirsty soldiers were excited. The whole snowfield was boiling for the last battle. Large pieces of horse meat were still stained with blood. They were scooped out of the pot by the soldiers and wolfed down. The chiefs of the various tribes were busy preparing for the war. The tents and the few carriages were handed over to the old, weak, sick and disabled to look after. Light cavalry and fast horses were gathered to prepare for a surprise attack.
Murderous intent filled the sky. Even the injured, sick, old, weak, and disabled Tartars were striving for the opportunity to enter the pass first, to kill, plunder, and rape women. There was no need for more mobilization. Everyone knew how rich the Han people's country was and how beautiful their women were. Greed could turn even the weakest soldier into a fierce tiger.
A masked man was hurriedly brought to Bayan Khagan's tent. Bayan's expression changed when he heard the news from the Maitreya Sect at the pass. He was silent for a long time before he smiled and said to the man, "Very good, I already know. Return to the mountain pass and continue to wait for further news."
The man put his hand on his chest and saluted, "Yes, sir. I will hurry back to the pass now." Just as he turned around, Bayan took out a snow-white scimitar and stabbed it into his back. The man turned around in shock and stared at Bayan with a horrified gaze.
Bayan smiled coldly. The scimitar left his body and blood spurted out. The man fell head first to the ground. Zhuo Er covered his mouth in shock until the man breathed his last. He then asked in horror, "Khan, why did you kill him?"
Bayan's expression was gloomy. Seeing that there was no one else in the tent, he said in a low voice, "I just received news that the Maitreya Sect's spy in West City of Datong has been killed by the Ming imperial envoy. They wanted to take Datong directly, block the Ming army from the pass to the north, and block the retreat of Zhengde in the south, then …"
Zhuo Er said worriedly, "What should we do now?"
Bayan shook his head and said, "There is no retreat. The news cannot be leaked. This spy is from Tumer Mongol Jin, a tribesman of the Fire Sieve tribe. We cannot let the Fire Sieve tribe know. I have already received this news." He glanced at the corpse on the ground and said lightly, "Let the Fire Sieve continue to gnaw on this hard bone. We will first kill the Emperor and then come back to take Datong!"
※ ※ ※
The pass was just a simple and crude fort. As it was sandwiched between two mountains, the terrain was steep. In front of it was a narrow river valley. The Tatars did not have very sharp siege weapons. Once the enemy's signal was lit, the left and right passes could quickly transport troops through the Great Wall to this place. Therefore, there were usually only two baihu troops stationed here. They were led by a Deputy Qianzong who also managed a baihu office.
After Bayan Khan's army entered the territory of Shanxi, a hundred monk soldiers from Mount Wutai were recruited here. At that time, the Volunteer Soldiers and monk soldiers were often called to participate in the war and returned to their original positions after the war.
This Deputy Qianzong was in his early twenties. His surname was Li and he had just been in office for a year. He was extraordinarily handsome, but his martial art skill was very high. Moreover, he was amiable and did not pursue the matter of the soldiers sometimes secretly buying some pots and jars from the Tatars. Therefore, he was very popular among the officers and soldiers.
Early in the morning, he went up to the observation tower with a restless mind. From time to time he looked at the valley outside the pass. The soldier guarding the tower saw Qianzong Daren's grave expression and said with a laugh, "Daren, although Yang Zongzhi has ordered all the passes, guard posts and beacon towers to be on full alert these few days, but I heard that Bayan's army is running out of food and fodder. Isn't he preparing to return to the desert? Why does Daren care so much? Besides, ever since the war started, our pass has only been attacked by small groups of Tatars. It is even more unlikely that a large army will attack at this time. "
Li Yi laughed aloud and said, "That's right. But Zongzhi Daren's military order is very strict. We still have to investigate." He rolled his eyes and looked around. Then he affectionately patted the soldier's shoulder and whispered, "I know your family's life isn't too good. I don't mind selling some pots and pans. But for the next two days, the higher-ups are keeping a close watch on us. Don't give me any trouble."
The soldier gratefully said, "Thank you Daren. This lowly one will not give you any trouble. Hey, hey, let's wait for a few days until Bayan's army leaves."
Li Yi nodded and said with a smile, "You've been standing all morning. You must be tired. Go and rest. I'll transfer those monk soldiers up here to guard the city. We've been exposed to wind and rain for many years. They're all fat and big ears raised in the temple. It's time for them to do something."
The city guards were overjoyed. A few of them said respectfully, "Thank you Daren for your consideration. This lowly one will go and call them up."
In a short while, forty monk soldiers ascended the city gate tower. A dozen or so city guards ran down with their arms around each other's shoulders. Li Yi saw that the monk officer, who was nearing his fifties, was walking rather slowly. His eyes narrowed. When he came closer, Li Yi whispered, "What's wrong? Have you not recovered from your injury?"
The monk officer paused with his shovel and replied with a smile, "Second Young Master, I'm almost recovered. I didn't dare to work too much for a while, so I've gotten fatter. Hey, speaking of that bald donkey on Mount Wutai, that shovel almost broke my thigh. I'm very lucky to have recovered. "
He looked outside the pass and said, "Just now, Young Master sent Baihu Fang's men to transport wood and tung oil. This excuse is a bit far-fetched. I see Baihu Fang is full of complaints. In a moment, he might report to General Guan Qi. Young Master, be careful."
Li Yi laughed coldly. He patted the entrance and said, "Father had me secretly infiltrate the army. Originally, he wanted to take control of the troops first and plan for the future. Now that the Emperor has come to Datong, it's a rare opportunity. I can't be an official anymore. When the gate opens, General Li will disappear from the world. Let him be. I've already done my best for him by not leaving him here to die. Hahaha … "
As soon as he stopped laughing, he asked, "Has everything been arranged outside the city gate?"
The fat monk officer nodded and said, "Young Master, don't worry. We are monks. We don't eat at the same table as the soldiers. I've already ordered people to drug their food. In a moment, they'll be killed like pigs …"
Just as he said this, a scream came from below the city gate tower. The two could not help but look at each other and laugh.
In the distance, arrows whistled through the clouds. The sharp sound reverberated faintly in the valley. After the whistling arrows were shot, the sound of hooves thundered. The horses rolled over like a swarm of ants. It was as if a black carpet had been spread out, instantly drowning the earth.
In the time it took to burn a stick of incense, the people outside the gate were shouting and horses neighing. Not a bit of ground could be seen …
* * *
When Yang Ling reached the foot of the mountain, he found out that the Chi Mutu was Hua Dang himself. When the Han armies fought, they did not kill the envoys. The foreign tribes knew this very well. Since ancient times, there were often Khans who disguised themselves as envoys and traveled to the Han lands to see the Han's rivers and mountains. For such an important matter, it was no wonder that Hua Dang wanted to personally negotiate with the Ming court.
At this time, the host and guests in the big tent at the top of Baideng Mountain were enjoying themselves. Zhengde personally wrote a letter of credence and stamped it with the imperial seal. It promised both sides to trade and cooperate. He also conferred Hua Dang the title of Prince Shunming. Under the command of Ming Destiny, Tongzhi became the Khan of Shunming in one leap. But the status of a vassal state and a vassal state were naturally different. He felt that his back was much straighter.
Yang Ling smiled and walked to the front of the tent. He shouted, "Come, let's eat!" Two rows of little eunuchs from the Acting Prince's Mansion entered the tent in a line. Exquisite porcelain, as clear as jade, was filled with all kinds of exquisite dishes. One by one, they were placed on the table in front of Zhengde and the various chiefs.
Although the conditions on the mountain were simple and crude, but the various dishes carefully prepared by the royal chef and the Prince's chef that Yang Ling brought were all delicious, showing the grandeur of a great country. The various chiefs were full of praise. They stared with their eyes wide open. They did not know whether to use a knife to cut the food or to use their hands to grab it, but they felt ashamed. They could only sigh in admiration.
Since her father was conferred the title of Khan, Miss Yin Qi has the status of a princess. It's just that she was still dressed as a man. There were many important people in the tent, so no one paid attention to her, a small guard standing behind Hua Dang.
Seeing that Yang Ling asked people to serve the dishes, Yin Qi glanced at him and walked to the front of the tent. She clapped her hands three times. Four Mongolian men used a lacquer plate to carry a whole goat that had been roasted for a long time and was draped in red. They knelt on one knee on the carpet and saluted to Zhengde before quietly retreating.
This fat and tender two-year-old goat was golden in color, with crispy skin and fresh meat. It was slaughtered using the Suo method, so its meat was exceptionally delicious. Immediately, the tent was filled with a strong aroma of mutton. Hua Dang stood up and came to the lacquer plate. He took out a small silver knife from his waist and skillfully cut off the shoulder blade and placed it on the tip of the knife.
The three Jurchen tribes elected the Haixi Jurchen leader Zhu Kongge. On the lacquer plate, there was a silver bowl and a silver bottle. Zhu Kongge used the knife to carefully cut open the goat's belly. He scooped out half a bowl of delicious mutton soup from the roasted goat's belly, and then poured half a bowl of water from the silver bottle to mix the soup. The two of them walked together in front of Zhengde.
The Imperial Bodyguards behind Zhengde stood with their hands on their sabers. Wu Hanchao, who was on the side, stepped forward, his fingers clenched tightly on two gold coin darts. Although they knew that these two leaders would not assassinate the Emperor at this time, they did not dare to be careless.
Fortunately, Hua Dang and Zhu Kongge were very courteous. The two of them stopped three steps in front of Zhengde and knelt on one knee. Hua Dang opened his mouth to sing, "Honorable Heavenly Khan, please allow me to offer this fat and tender goat. Its broad back is like the vast universe. Its fat limbs are like fertile soil. It raised its head high like a towering mountain. Its tall and straight bones are like a sandalwood tree on a mountain. Blessed and rich Heavenly Khan, please enjoy it … "
For such a huge man to kneel there and sing so earnestly, Zhengde was both curious and amused. On his left and right, Zhang Yong and Miao Kui were about to step forward to receive the gifts from the two leaders, but according to etiquette, Zhengde should receive them personally. Hua Dang glanced at them, but did not let go. The atmosphere inside the tent became tense.
Zhengde chuckled and said, "You may withdraw, Prince Shun Ming and Zhu Kongge, please come forward!"
Zhang Yong and Zhu Kongge had no choice but to withdraw. Hua Dang and Zhu Kongge walked over to Zhengde's table and bowed as they presented the gifts. Although the silver knife was intentionally pointed at them, if it was thrust, this angle would be perfect for Zhengde's throat. But Zhengde's expression did not change, he calmly received the silver knife from Hua Dang's hand and placed the knife on the plate. He nodded and smiled at Hua Dang, then he took the silver bowl from Zhu Kongge's hand and placed it aside.
Hua Dang's eyes flashed with admiration, he knelt down again in front of Zhengde's table, picked up the jade pot on the table, poured a cup of wine and offered it to Zhengde with both hands. Zhengde took the cup and drank it in one gulp. As the Heavenly Khan, Zhengde was willing to drink their toast without leaving a drop; this was a great respect. Hua Dang, Zhu Kongge and even all the tribe leaders in the tent revealed a happy expression on their faces when they saw this.
Zhengde also personally picked up the pot and poured a cup of wine for Hua Dang and Zhu Kongge, then poured a cup for himself. He stood up and said with a smile: "Come, let us all drink to this cup!"
Hua Dang and Zhu Kongge raised their cups with both hands and took a few steps back. They stood in front of the tribe leaders and led them to respond in unison: "Thank the Heavenly Khan, let us all drink together!"
Everyone in the tent picked up their cups and drank it in one gulp.
The banquet of the Qing League officially began, and the tribe leaders took turns toasting Ming Destiny, the Son of Heaven, and Ming Destiny's envoy. Yang Ling knew that it was impolite for these Mongols to refuse a toast, so he had prepared a large but shallow silver cup beforehand. Even so, he still drank a little.
Yang Ling stood up and returned the toast to the tribe leaders. Just as the atmosphere in the tent was harmonious, there was suddenly the sound of a cannon, and the laughter in the tent stopped. Yang Ling was startled and immediately rushed out of the tent. A few guards quickly blocked in front of Zhengde.
Yang Ling ran out of the tent, and the tribe leaders nervously followed him out of the tent. They saw smoke rising from the top of the mountain in the distance, and there was a commotion among the soldiers at the foot of the mountain. From the direction of Datong, there was a large group of people galloping towards them.
Yang Ling was shocked. What had happened?
It was a pity that there were no telephones or telegraphs in this era. Although they had seen the smoke signal and knew that something important had happened, no one around them knew what had happened. The leader of the Wengniute tribe, Ural, was both shocked and angry. He saw a large group of people in the distance, and instinctively thought that Yang Ling was using this meeting to capture them all.
Without thinking, Ural quickly pulled out his scimitar and leaped over to Yang Ling's neck. He shouted angrily: "You Han people lied to me! Great Leader, quickly take your men and rush down the mountain, take the horses and get out of here! "
Wu Hanchao had been repeatedly instructed by Yang Ling to protect the Emperor, so when Yang Ling left the tent, he hesitated for a moment. In just a moment, Yang Ling had been subdued by Ural. Wu Hanchao saw that the guards had protected Zhengde, so he quickly rushed out. With a sword in his right hand and a concealed weapon in his left, he wanted to kill Ural and take him back.
Yang Ling saw that the leaders of the Duoyan tribes were holding their swords in their hands and were in a state of high tension. Even the leaders of the three Jurchen tribes and their guards were holding their weapons, nervously watching for any movement of the Ming guards. He knew that if Wu Hanchao killed Ural and took him back, Ming Destiny and the three Duoyan guards would immediately start an all-out war. There would be no chance for him to explain. So without thinking, he immediately shouted: "Wu Hanchao, stop!"
Wu Hanchao was taken aback. His body that was about to explode suddenly froze on the spot. At this time, Zheng De also stepped out of the tent under the protection of many imperial guards. He pushed aside the imperial guards in front of him, took two steps forward and shouted sternly, "How dare you! I am the Emperor, the Khan of Ming Destiny. Why would I do such a dirty thing as using the meeting as bait to lure and kill the leaders of the tribes? Let go of my people! "
Zheng De was still young, wearing the dragon robe he still looked like a half grown child, but his stern shout was not angry, it made Wu La, who was as strong as a bear, also panicked, she could not help but shifted her gaze to Hua Dang, to see what he meant.
Hua Dang hesitated. He didn't know if he should believe Zhengde's words. Yin Qi stepped out from the crowd and said loudly: "Don't panic. The Ming people mean us no harm."
Yin Qi turned around to face the various chiefs and imperial bodyguards who were armed with sabers and swords. She raised her hands high and comforted them, "The Ming people's beacon fire alarm is to inform us of the invasion of foreign enemies. Even if the Great Ming Emperor wanted to kill us, he would quietly deploy his troops with great fanfare and take the opportunity when we are descending the mountain to strike. Why would he be so quiet that everyone can see and hear us?"
She turned to Ural and said: "Uncle Ural, let go of this Ming official. I believe he will give us a reason."
Ural hesitated for a moment. Seeing that everyone had quietly put down their weapons, and that the Zheng De Emperor had also waved his hand to order the Ming Army's guards to retreat, he put down his knife and pushed Yang Ling forward.
Yang Ling rushed forward two steps and came to Miss Yin Qi's side. Only now did he know that this guard was a girl. He looked in surprise at this pretty girl with thick, sword-like eyebrows and big and beautiful eyes. Then he shook his golden embroidered robe and straightened his slightly askew hair. He smiled and said: "Miss's idiom is very good!"
Miss Yin Qi snorted. She raised the tip of her nose and said with some pride: "Daren, please understand the situation as soon as possible and give us an explanation."
Yang Ling nodded and said to Zhengde: "Your Majesty, are you …"
Zhengde shook his head and said: "The leaders of the tribes are here. I am also here. Subject Yang, quickly investigate the situation!"
"Yes, Your Majesty!" Yang Ling said solemnly. He took a few guards and hurried to the mountain pass. The army from Datong had already rushed to the foot of the mountain. Yang Ling did not hear a single explosion and guessed that this must be Ming Destiny's army. He felt at ease. When he reached the mountain pass, he saw about ten thousand people and horses rushing to the foot of the mountain and joining the original thousands of Ming troops. The flag that was raised high had the word "Xu" on it.
Yang Ling was surprised and thought: "It's Xu Tai! Originally we agreed that if there is any change on the mountain, we will summon him through the smoke beacon. Now the fire beacons are burning everywhere on the Great Wall. It is clear that the Tartars are attacking again and their attack must be fierce. Why is his army not on standby at Datong but here? "
* * *
After Zhengde's army left the city, Xu Tai's seven thousand cavalry stayed near the eastern part of the city. They did not leave their horses and were on standby at any time. Du Renguo was in charge of the military headquarters. Although he had carefully calculated and calculated that nothing unexpected could happen on Mount Baiguo, but where the Son of Heaven was, he was the center of gravity of the world. Du Renguo did not dare to be careless.
The fire beacons at the passes near the mouth of the Great Wall were ignited one by one. The news quickly spread throughout the nine passes. All the passes immediately entered the first level of combat readiness. The guards nearby increased the number of soldiers. Du Renguo received the report from Datong and immediately went to the castle on the western side of the city. He sent out several scouts to investigate the situation at the mouth of the Great Wall.
The scouts left the city and galloped along the official road. They had just climbed over a mound when they suddenly felt the ground tremble. As far as they could see, the mountains and plains were covered with Tartars' fierce soldiers and generals. The men and horses were like wolves and tigers as they charged toward Datong.
The scouts were shocked. Two years ago the Tartars had also broken through the pass and almost lost Datong. The Tartars' armoured cavalry charged all the way to Juyong Pass before they were stopped and returned. They did not expect the same thing to happen again today. The wolves of the grassland had once again invaded the Central Plains.
The two scouts turned their horses around and rode away. Their whips were like rain, the war horses' four hooves were sent flying. Behind them, arrows blotted out the sky and blotted out the sun like a swarm of locusts, the two scouts were shot like needles. The hooves of the horses were like a storm, the Tartars' armoured cavalry swept across the earth, their steps blurred the ground, not a trace of men or horses could be seen anymore.
The fourth batch of scouts had just reached the valley road on the plain. Finally they could see from a distance that the situation was not good. Just in time they turned their horses around and ran away. The horses' buttocks and the men's backs were covered with arrows, but they were still some distance away, the arrows' power had been depleted, so they did not kill anyone.
Like a gust of wind the two scouts entered the city, shouting loudly, "Pull up the drawbridge! Lock the city gate! The Tartars have entered the pass! "
On the top of the city wall Du Renguo was greatly alarmed; this time he did not have time to investigate which pass had fallen. He immediately ordered his men to send a message to the east, Xu Tai was to rush to Mount Baishan's aid. At the same time he ordered the four city gates to be tightly closed, all the imperial troops were to move to the battlements, while Yi Yong, Kuai Shou and the others were to assist in defending the city.
Hearing this, Hu Zan also hurried from the Inspector-General Yamen to the city gate. Looking at the Tartars who blotted out the sky and covered the earth, he was trembling with fear, hoping that the Tartars did not know that the Emperor was meeting with the Duoyan San Wei at Mount Baishan. If his army attacked the city, the Emperor would be able to receive the news in time and quickly retreat to the next pass.
Who would have thought that the Tartars' army did not attack the city? Instead, they circled around the city and headed east without stopping for even a moment. Like a flood of iron, they had the momentum to annihilate everything.
Seeing this, Hu Zan could not restrain his heart from turning cold; he watched in a daze as the Tartars' iron cavalry surged past like a flood. Turning his head to look at Du Renguo, this valiant and unafraid of death 'God of War', Madman Du's face was ashen.
The Green Wolf banner fluttered in the wind, as if it was the biggest mockery to them. Seeing that the army was about to run out, Hu Zan jumped up in fright and shouted, "Du Zongbing, quick, quickly rush to Mount Baishan's aid. The Tartars broke through the pass so quickly, Yang Zongbing's army is stationed at the Great Wall, most of them are infantry.
Once he leads the army back, the important matter will be over! "Du Renguo also jumped up as if his soul had returned to him. Most of the cavalry had been taken away by Xu Tai, the infantry in the city and the Tartars' powerful army could defend the city and protect Datong. But if the army left the city, perhaps not only the entire army would be wiped out, if the Tartars used their fast mobility to counterattack, even Datong would be lost. However, as long as they could delay the enemy for a moment, allowing the Emperor to safely retreat into the pass, any great loss would be worth it.
Du Renguo grabbed his broadsword, he was just about to gather the defending troops in the city to attack Mount Baishan when in the distance a fiery red eagle flag slowly approached, the Fire Sieve's army had arrived!
Listening to Xu Tai's hasty narration, Yang Ling could not help sucking in a breath of cold air. Even if he cracked his head, he could not figure out why the Tartars had fought outside the city for two months and still had not broken the Great Wall. How could they break the pass so quickly, how could it be so coincidental, when they were at their wits' end, and how could they break the pass and invade at this time?
Even if one defends against ten thousand defences, it is difficult to guard against a thief in one's own house. Yang Yiqing had been in Datong for less than two months, as soon as he arrived he immediately threw himself into the great battle with the Tartars, he basically did not have time to reorganize the army.
A few days ago, the matter of Wang Long and Wang Hu having secret dealings with the Tartars, which was actually the Maitreya Cult using a large sum of gold and silver to plant spies in the Ming army, was exposed. All the officials who were involved in the secret were transferred away from their original positions, but the Tartars' main army outside the Great Wall was like a tiger watching its prey, right now they could not implicate too many people.
Therefore, not only did Yang Ling not have any inkling, even Yang Yiqing had not received the news that Li Yi had rebelled against the enemy and opened the city, luring the Tartars into the pass. In the distance, the Wolf Riders were covered in dust, the enemy's tracks were beginning to appear. Yang Ling made a prompt decision and immediately ordered, "Xu Tai, Liu Biao, immediately mobilize the army to protect the mountain, defend it, and wait for reinforcements."
Defend, it was just two words, but what kind of blood-soaked battle was involved? Xu Tai and Liu Biao smelled the smell of blood in the words, they sternly obeyed the order. Liu Biao immediately asked, "Daren, what about the five thousand cavalry of the Duoyan Three Guards?"
Yang Ling looked at the gathering place of the Duoyan Three Guards at the foot of the mountain. The Ming army at the foot of the mountain had a total of more than twelve thousand men. Adding the new force of the Duoyan Three Guards, there were nearly twenty thousand men and horses guarding this mountain, they could hold it for at least a day. Although the Tartars were brave, without several times the number of men, how could they attack the mountain?
Yang Ling secretly calculated: Bayan Meng's total military strength was more than seventy thousand men, but after nearly two months of battle, the number of soldiers who could fight was less than sixty thousand. Would Bayan disregard everything and use all his forces to attack the mountain? Even if the sixty thousand men all gathered at the top of the mountain, they could still hold it for a while. As long as they did not collapse, Yang Yiqing and Du Renguo's troops would be able to rush to the rescue in time.
It's just that … they had just formed an alliance with the Duoyan Three Guards, they had yet to reap any benefits. Would Hua Dang, this fence-sitter, be willing to go all out against Hua Dang? Would they see that the situation was not good and change sides at the last minute? No! The Duoyan Three Guards could not be used before the outcome of the battle was decided!
Thinking about this, Yang Ling said: "At present, if we can defend this mountain, it will be our victory. There is no need to argue with Bayan for a while. Move the army up the mountain and split up to defend against the enemy. Leave only three thousand men and horses at the foot of the mountain. Use all the cannons to dampen the enemy's spirit. As for the Duoyan Three Guards … I will ask Hua Dang to move them up the mountain. Liu Biao, your men will stand in the middle and do not let them get close to the main tent. "
The two of them obeyed the order and went down the mountain. Yang Ling climbed up a huge rock and looked into the distance. A dense mass of cavalry constantly emerged from the horizon, surging forward like a tide. Yang Ling only felt a bitter taste in his mouth …
Zhengde, Hua Dang and the others stood on a temporary pavilion built along the Bai Deng Platform and looked into the distance. They also saw an endless army coming from afar. For a moment, they did not know what was going on. Even though they did not say it, everyone's heart was beating like a drum.
At this moment, they saw Yang Ling leading six personal guards slowly walking back from the mountain pass. Zhengde immediately rushed to ask: "Subject Yang, what happened?"
Hua Dang and the others also pricked up their ears to listen carefully to his answer. Yang Ling looked calm and said with a smile: "Your Majesty's plan is flawless. Bayan really fell for it and led the army to attack Bai Deng Mountain!"
Zhengde was surprised. But he and Yang Ling, this pair of bad classmates, used to deceive the Grand Tutor together and can be said to have a tacit understanding. After a moment of surprise, he clapped his hands and laughed: "Wonderful! Good!"
When Hua Dang and the others heard that Bayan had led the army to attack, they all jumped in fright. How could these ten thousand people be a match for Hua Dang? But hearing the words of the ruler and subject, their faces were full of joy. It seemed that they had deliberately led him here. Hua Dang suppressed the nervousness in his heart and asked suspiciously: "Tian Khagan, in the distance … is Hua Dang's army? They … why did they enter the pass? "
Zhengde paused and laughed dryly. He pretended to be mysterious and said: "Subject Yang, come and tell King Shun Ming."
"Subject obeys!" Yang Ling clasped his hands and stood up. He said to Hua Dang with a smile: "Shun Ming Khagan, you have come thousands of miles to see His Majesty. His Majesty wants to give you a big gift. It's just that he did not know if Bayan will fall for it, so he did not tell you clearly just now."
He lifted the hem of his robe and walked up the stairs. Standing in the pavilion, he looked at the approaching army. He pointed and said with a calm smile: "You see, although Bayan has lost many soldiers and generals, his foundation has not been damaged. He still has strong men and strong horses. In addition to his Huang Jin family's unparalleled rallying power, once he returns to the grasslands, even if there is internal strife, it will not be easy to deal with. Only by destroying seven out of ten of his men and horses, can the title of Shun Ming Khagan be secure, therefore … "
Yang Ling very naturally turned around and made a gesture to invite them into the tent. He led Zhengde and the other leaders out of the pavilion and into the big tent while listening to him speak.
Yang Ling walked in front and took the opportunity to give Wu Hanchao a stern look. Wu Hanchao understood and began to quietly arrange the imperial bodyguards to take control of the whole big tent.
Yang Ling invited everyone to take a seat. He walked back to the back of the table and said with a carefree smile: "Therefore, His Majesty intentionally spread the news of the alliance meeting to the streets of Datong and let the Tatar spies pass. As expected, Bayan could not be lured and exhausted his troops to plot to climb Mount Bai, wanting to capture His Majesty and the other leaders in one fell swoop.
Hehe, the Khagan has offered our Majesty a delicious roasted whole lamb. This is your most precious gift, isn't it? Long live our Majesty. Today, we will reward you with a whole roasted wolf. Will Shun Ming Khagan and the other leaders kindly accept it! "
There was a commotion in the tent. Yang Ling sat upright as usual. He shook his sleeves and laughed loudly: "Bayan is known as the hero of the grasslands, but now it seems that he is only a man's bravery. What is there to mention? He will be reduced to ashes in the blink of an eye! "
"Boom … boom boom …" A few landmines were stepped on at the right time. The roar entered the ears and people shouted and horses neighed. It seemed to be confirming Yang Ling's words.
A strange light flashed in Yin Qi's beautiful eyes. For the first time, she looked at this gentle Han brother who did not even care about the number one hero of the grasslands.
Hua Dang's eyes flickered. He said doubtfully: "So, the Heaven Khagan has already set up a trap and lured Bayan into it?"
Zhengde was annoyed: "Bayan has entered the Pass? How did Yang Yiqing fight this battle? I will settle the score with him later! But … fortunately, Yang can keep his composure and give me enough face. If he had hurriedly come to report, not only would I have lost all my prestige and face, even if this old fellow Hua Dang did not turn on me on the spot, he would be scared out of his wits. From then on, he would not dare to form an alliance with me, a weak neighbor. "
Amidst the continuous roar of the landmines, Emperor Zhengde also spread his sleeves and smiled. He said with a proud expression: "Of course."
His gaze met with Yang Ling's, and they understood each other's thoughts. Since this battle had already been forced upon them, they had to fight, and they had to win. Otherwise. Not only will they not be able to eliminate Bayan in the future, but they will also lose their lives now!
Hua Dang was still doubtful and asked tentatively: "This … I did not bring many troops, but we can fight. Does Your Majesty need me to do what I can? "
Yang Ling saw his expression and took the opportunity to stand up and said: "Since we have formed an alliance, it is only a matter of time before we fight together. Today, we will fight side by side to show our sincerity. But the Khan's army still needs to be used to protect the Three Duoyan Guards when you return. We cannot lose too much. Khan, please send someone to inform your subordinates to temporarily come up the mountain and wait for my Ming Destiny Army to surround you. Show the Three Duoyan Guards again! "
As he said this, he walked to the front of Zhengde's imperial desk and lifted up the carpet. He buckled an iron ring and pulled, lifting up a large iron plate and revealing a hole. The hole was brightly lit with torches. It was obvious that there was another ventilation hole.
Yang Ling said: "On the battlefield, there are stray arrows flying everywhere. To prevent any accidents, Your Majesty and the leaders of the various tribes, please take shelter inside."
In his opinion, by controlling the leaders of the various tribes, he can ensure that no matter how dangerous the situation is, the Three Duoyan Guards will not dare to change sides. If there is a real fire, he will not care about his grandmother's face anymore. He will put a knife to Hua Dang's neck and force the Three Duoyan Guards to join the battle.
Hua Dang saw that Yang Ling did not need his soldiers to join the battle and was 80% convinced. He also saw that there was a hole here just in case, so he was even more convinced. If he does not follow the Heaven Khan to beat the drowning dog and roast the wolf. Then when will he show his sincerity? It seems that he will not stand on the wrong side this time. Very fortunate! Very fortunate!
Hua Dang immediately stood up and said: "Heaven Khan! I have been bestowed the title by Khan Meng Tian. I have not done anything. Since we have formed an alliance, we should share a common enemy and live and die together!
Although the Heaven Khan is good at using troops and has long been prepared, and does not care about my mere 5,000 troops, but how can I not do my duty as a subordinate? I ask for the Heaven Khan's permission to let my subordinate General Mahalu lead the troops to fight together. I and the leaders of the various tribes will accompany the Heaven Khan here and wait for the heavenly army to destroy the Duoyan Cavalry! "
Zhengde covered his mouth and coughed. He frowned slightly and said 'unwillingly': "Since that is the case … Minister Yang, Prince Shun Ming has good intentions. You can lead these 5,000 troops and command them!"
He then smiled at Hua Dang and said: "In the past, the Three Duoyan Guards saved Long Jingnan and made great contributions. Today, we, the ruler and the subject, can work together again. This can be considered a good story, hehehehe …"
Hua Dang was greatly encouraged. He stood up and shouted: "Mahalu!"
A big man with tiger eyes and a beard came out from the crowd of imperial guards in front of the tent. He knelt on one knee and said: "Great Leader, please give me your orders!"
Hua Dang ordered loudly: "Quickly gather the troops. Advance and retreat, fight and kill the enemy, listen to Mr Yang Ling's orders!"
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