The Qingyang Palace had changed its guards. The inner perimeter of the back garden was still under the protection of the King of Shu's guards, but the outer perimeter was completely guarded by Yang Ling's bodyguards. Outsiders were not allowed to enter, and no one was allowed to leave. Violators would be killed without question.
He had brought a total of five hundred bodyguards, and another three hundred were dispatched this time. However, if the person who wanted to harm Yang Ling was really the King of Shu, Yang Ling would not hesitate to send all five hundred bodyguards. Because as long as the King of Shu was under his control, it would be the greatest guarantee for his personal safety.
These elites of the capital army seemed to have been cast from the same mold. They were all the same in terms of height and weight. Having participated in many battles with Yang Ling, the cold murderous aura they exuded was imitated by others. Compared to the guards of the royal residence, who looked just as mighty but had a different temperament, it was obvious who was superior.
Although these people were few, they gave off a feeling that this was an army, a true elite division. They were bloodthirsty warriors who could fight against ten. Although they wore gentle smiles on their faces, the Taoist priests of the Qingyang Palace on the outer perimeter and the Prince's guards on the inner perimeter all intentionally or unintentionally distanced themselves from them, not daring to approach lightly.
Liu Dachui chewed on a piece of grass and stood on tiptoe on the platform. Looking into the distance, he murmured, "They're about to set off, right? Damn it, I can't follow Marshal to battle this time and have to stand here as a guard. It's really suffocating. "
A guard beside him smiled and said, "Sir Baihu, didn't the Marquis say that if you guard this place well, it will be a great merit. When you return, you will definitely be given the highest merit."
Liu Dachui glared at him and scolded jokingly, "What do you know! Do you know that following Marshal to battle is satisfying, relieving, fun, and delightful? You're such an idiot. "
That person giggled and did not say anything else.
At this moment, a coquettish voice came from behind, "How dare you! Are you all blind? You don't even know me, or else I'll chop off your heads! "
Liu Big Clubstick turned around and saw two imperial bodyguards holding two shiny podaos in their hands. They were blocking a young girl dressed in emerald green. Behind the young girl were two little girls. Liu Big Clubstick was so scared that his face turned pale.
Big Stick Liu slowly walked over with a grass root in his mouth and asked, "What happened?"
The two bodyguards were still vigilantly blocking the girl with their knives. Without turning their heads, they said, "Reporting to the official, this girl wants to leave the Qingyang Palace."
The girl's apricot eyes widened as she stared at him and said, "You are their leader? Tell your men to get lost, I want to go out for a walk. "
Liu Da Bang Chui looked up and down and saw that it was a thirteen or fourteen-year-old girl. Her skin was pink and tender, as if water would come out with a pinch. Her eyes were round, and her eyebrows were curved. Her little red mouth revealed her pearly white teeth, and the corners of her lips were pursed downwards. Although she was angry, she still looked very cute.
Big Stick Liu narrowed his beady eyes and chuckled. "What for? Our Commander has said that I have the final say in this place. Even a mouse is not allowed to run in or out. Although you're as small as a flower, you're still bigger than a mouse. That won't do! Without the Commander's orders, you'd better go back and squat. "
The girl's face turned white with anger when she heard this. She placed her hands on her slender waist and raised her eyebrows that were like distant mountains. She shouted in a shrill voice, "How dare you! Do you know who I am?"
"Oh ho," Big Stick Liu spat out the stalk of grass and placed his hands on his round stomach. He really could not find his waist, "Then do you know who I am?"
The girl was so angry that she was about to explode. She pointed at her small and sharp nose and shouted, "I am the daughter of the King of Shu, the Princess of Sichuan. You blind bastard!"
Big Stick Liu rolled his beady eyes and stretched out a finger as thick as a carrot to point at his bulbous nose. He said, "I am the Commander's bodyguard, Shandong Big Stick Liu. You blind little girl!"
"You … you … you bastard. Even if it's Yang Ling who sees me, he can't be so rude. What law did the King of Shu commit to make his entire family your prisoners?" Zhu Xiang 'er roared in anger.
Big Stick Liu quickly adjusted his expression and said solemnly, "The Commander has said that Your Highness is seriously ill and the Crown Prince has been captured. The situation is very serious. If there's even the slightest movement, the Shu border will be filled with smoke. This is a serious matter. For Your Highness's safety, before the rebellion in Xuzhou is quelled, Your Highness's residence will be under military control. Princess is right. I am a bastard who only knows how to be reasonable. Please don't lower yourself to the level of a bastard like me. "
Zhu Xiang 'er was so angry that she could not do anything. She stamped her foot and found a way out of this embarrassing situation. She said, "Fine! Just you wait, bastard. You think you're so great just because you're connected to the imperial envoy? How dare you offend me like this. When Yang Ling returns, I want him to kneel down and lick my toes! "
Zhu Binhan's rule was peaceful. Although he was a Prince, he often wore simple clothes and enjoyed himself with the people. He was very strict with his son and spoiled this little daughter of his. Therefore, Zhu Xiang 'er often sneaked out to the people to have fun. When she heard some of the vulgar words spoken in the streets, she felt that it was very cool. At this moment, she blurted it out. However, as soon as the words left her mouth, she felt that it was inappropriate and her delicate cheeks immediately turned red.
Big Stick Liu looked at this pretty little girl and laughed. "I'm only responsible for Your Highness's safety. If the Commander likes to lick his feet, I don't care."
Zhu Xiang 'er could not reason with this bastard. She wanted to scold him but he took advantage of her instead. She was so angry that she stomped her foot and turned to leave.
Big Stick Liu watched as she ran away. He chuckled and put on a straight face. He ordered his men, "Well done. Keep a close eye on her, especially on this mischievous little rat!"
The guards on both sides held back their laughter and shouted in unison, "Yes, sir!"
* * *
The Shu King's Residence was majestic and magnificent. Due to the wealth of Shu, the Shu King's Residence was the largest among all the vassal residences. It occupied almost one-fifth of the city of Chengdu. The entire building faced south and was filled with palaces, pavilions and towers. The gardens were exquisite and beautiful. There were small bridges and flowing water. Birds sang and the fragrance of flowers filled the air. It was like a paradise on earth. Among them, 'Kikui Akuka' was known as one of the eight great sights of Chengdu. However, only a few people had the fortune to see it.
Outside this magnificent palace garden, there was a palace city and a royal river that flowed towards the Golden River. Outside the royal river, there was a brick city called Zhong City. Outside the palace gate, there was a pavilion on both the east and west sides. The east pavilion was called 'Dragon Roar' and the west pavilion was called 'Tiger Roar'.
Zhang Xianzhong used this huge building as the imperial city of Da Xi after he entered Shu at the end of the Ming Dynasty. When he was defeated and left, Zhang Xianzhong did not want this luxurious palace to fall into the hands of the Qing. He burned the imperial city to the ground.
At this moment, Zhu Rangjin and Tuoba Yanran were walking slowly in the palace garden. The scenery around them was beautiful. The birds chirped pleasantly and the autumn breeze brought the fragrance of chrysanthemums. Tuoba Yanran whispered, "When you are in Xuzhou, you must be careful. Now that the Crown Prince is in the hands of the barbarians, your situation is the most awkward. If you insist on a truce, you will damage the reputation of the imperial court. Not only will the imperial envoy be unhappy, but the officials of Bashu will also be unhappy. However, if you propose to send troops, people will inevitably suspect that you are taking the opportunity to kill the Crown Prince in order to seek glory and wealth. Sigh, silence is golden. If you don't have to speak, don't say anything. "
Today, Zhu Rangjin was wearing a warrior's robe, which made him look even more charming. After hearing Tuoba Yanran's words, he laughed heartily and said, "Yanran is worrying too much. I, Zhu Rangjin, am a magnanimous person. Wealth, glory, and splendor are nothing more than fleeting clouds. Even if father gave me the title of King of Shu, I would still find it unbearable. However, now that Imperial Brother is in the hands of those barbarians, he is my brother. No matter what, I have to think of a way to save him. Why should I care about what others say? "
Tuoba Yanran coquettishly rolled her eyes at him and said in annoyance, "You, it is your temper that is bad. Otherwise, with your talent, why would His Highness not like you? You must know how to restrain yourself. "
Zhu Rangjin shook his head and chuckled, "I admire Imperial Brother's talent and character very much. Why do you admire me but not Imperial Brother? Isn't it because I have a flamboyant personality and do whatever I want, unlike Imperial Brother who is serious and reserved? "
Tuoba Yanran smiled and shook her head, sighing, "You, you …" However, her expression was full of joy. It was obvious that Zhu Rangjin had hit the nail on the head.
She thought for a while and said, "Since you are going to Xuzhou, there is no point for me to stay in Chengdu. I will return to Xiao Jinchuan in these two days. Has the affairs of the Wang Residence been settled?"
Zhu Rangjin smiled, "I do not need to worry about the Wang Residence. The head butler will be back from Shaanxi the day after tomorrow. Imperial Father is meditating. When Imperial Brother is not around, he will be the one handling the affairs of the Wang Residence."
Tuoba Yanran said unhappily, "These rules are so strange. We are both sons of the King of Shu. The eldest son can represent His Highness in managing the entire Wang Residence, but you cannot touch any of the affairs and have to avoid arousing suspicion. You are not even allowed to enter the Yin An Hall, but I can sit in my father's seat whenever I want. It is so infuriating to think about it. "
Tuoba Yanran felt indignant for him, but Zhu Rangjin looked like he was enjoying it. He chuckled and said, "Isn't this good? Living a luxurious life, I am not lacking in any way. If you really want me to do those things, managing the daily affairs of the Wang Residence, managing the salt wells, mulberry fields, iron mines and silver mountains, would you like it? "
"No." Tuoba Yanran curled her lips in disdain and shook her head, saying, "No way. Zhu Rangjin is a dragon among men, how can I be involved in those worldly matters?"
Zhu Rangjin was overjoyed by her praise and could not help but intimately pinch her nose. He smiled and said, "You, Imperial Father did not assign me those things, and you think that Imperial Father is neglecting me. He assigned me those things, and you think that those worldly matters are holding me back. Hehe, women are so contradictory. "
Tuoba Yanran put on a stern face and said, "What do you mean? Are you trying to say: Only women find it difficult to live with lowly people? If they are close, they will be rude; if they are far away, they will be resentful. The ancients did not deceive me? "
Zhu Rangjin laughed and said, "You, you are being suspicious again. That is not what I mean."
"It must be!" Tuoba Yanran's unruly nature came up again. "No wonder you can't forget that Jiangnan's Daixiao Lou and can't stop praising it. A woman like her is clever and clever and knows how to make a man happy. If you want to ask east, she will not dare to say west. If she is lucky enough to climb up to a high branch like you, she will only have honey smeared on her mouth. How can she say this and that … "
Zhu Rangjin's handsome face immediately collapsed. "Oh my god, it's starting again. Yanran's face is like the sky of Yunnan, changing at a whim. Who knows which sentence she will not like. Silence is golden, hmm! Silence is golden. "
Tuoba Yanran talked for a long time, but seeing that he did not say a word, she could not help but say angrily, "Are you feeling guilty? Otherwise, why are you not saying a word? "
Zhu Rangjin said helplessly, "What am I feeling guilty about? What I mean is, my darling Yanran has a clever and exquisite heart. No one can see through her, no one can guess at her …"
"You are still quibbling!"
Zhu Rangjin hurriedly shut his mouth again.
At this moment, a laugh was heard. "Haha, Miss Tuoba is bullying the second prince again? In this world, only you can make him speechless. "
A muscular man wearing a black, narrow-sleeved, lacy, right-hand cardigan, and pleated, wide-legged trousers walked over while laughing. Behind him was a woman wearing a similar outfit, but brightly colored and wearing a cockscomb hat.
This man had a lock of hair about three inches long on the top of his head. He was known as the 'Heavenly Bodhisattva'. His hair was wrapped with a green cotton cloth, leaving a tall sharp horn on the left side of his forehead. It was known as the 'Hero's Knot'. His left ear was pierced with needles and he wore a large gold earring. Although the weather was still hot, this man had a piece of rough felt draped diagonally over his shoulders. It was actually a Yi person's outfit.
He was much older than Zhu Rangjin, probably in his thirties. However, the people of Yi believed that no facial hair was considered beautiful, so they plucked out the long hairs from their moustaches one by one. His lower jaw was clean and smooth, and he looked much younger.
Zhu Rangjin felt as if he had seen his savior. He hurriedly went forward and said, "Jipan Wasi, my good brother. You finally arrived in time." As he said this, he gave him a hug. He then smiled and greeted the Yi woman behind him. It was Wasi's wife, Giguaga.
Giguaga was wearing a long, pleated dress. As her husband, Jipan Wasi, was the son of a chieftain and had a high status, according to the rule, the higher the status, the tighter the folds of the dress. Her dress was covered in layers of folds, and at the same time, it dragged on the ground. When she walked, dust flew up, which showed her high status.
"When I received your news, I rushed over day and night. Good brother, what can I help you with?" Jipan Wasi said to Zhu Rangjin with a smile.
Jipan Wasi and Tuoba Yanran knew each other, so they smiled and greeted each other. A few years ago, he had been seriously ill. The shaman doctors in the tribe couldn't cure him, and he was about to die. It was Zhu Rangjin, who happened to wander here, who had a doctor with him, who cured his illness. The Yi people were heroic and repaid kindness with kindness. From then on, he regarded Zhu Rangjin as a brother with a different surname.
Zhu Rangjin briefly explained the matter, then said, "I know you have been to Lingxiao City and Nine Silk Stockade to do business with them. You must know the way into the mountains. My royal brother is now in their hands. If the imperial army attacks, he will not be able to keep his life. That's why I hope you can come with me and act according to the situation. Maybe there will be a chance to save my royal brother."
Jipan Wasi's expression became difficult. He hesitated for a while before saying in a low voice, "Good brother, I still don't know about your royal brother's capture. However, the news of the barbarians opposing the imperial court has spread to all the stockades. Most of the chieftains have … cough cough, that kind of thought. If I help you, our tribe will be isolated …"
Zhu Rangjin lowered his brows and sighed softly. He patted his shoulder and said, "I understand. Rangjin will not make things difficult for you. I will think of another way. Don't make things difficult for me."
Jipan Wasi hesitated for a moment, then gritted his teeth and said, "Alright, I will accompany you. But … I cannot appear in public. Give me a set of Han clothes and don't let others know that Jipan Wasi is with you."
Zhu Rangjin was overjoyed. He hugged him and said, "That's easy. Sister-in-law can stay in the residence first. I will definitely ask people to take good care of sister-in-law."
Jipan Wasi looked at Zhu Rangjin. Zhu Rangjin smiled knowingly and said, "Yanran is my confidante, my only confidante. You should rest assured with her."
Although Tuoba Yanran liked to throw a tantrum with Zhu Rangjin, she still knew how to maintain his reputation in public. She hurriedly smiled sweetly and said, "Yes, don't worry. I didn't even see you and your wife coming to the residence today. Hehei, you should be relieved now, Brother Ah Hei."
※ ※ ※
The officials in Shu were debating on whether to negotiate for peace or to go to war, to appease or to suppress. Some officials argued that Shu was difficult to travel through, Xuzhou was dangerous, and the 200,000 strong army could not enter the mountains. They suggested that they should temporarily agree to the conditions of the Governor of the Barbarians. Everything was based on the release of the Crown Prince.
Those who opposed believed that once they agreed, the Governor of the Barbarians would be like a prison in the Xuzhou area. It would be like a state within a state. If the court wanted to send troops, it would be morally passive. If the other tribes followed suit, there would be no peace in Shu. Therefore, they should use both methods. They could promise large amounts of money, land, and official positions to redeem the Crown Prince. At the same time, they could pressure the Governor of the Barbarians to give up on the conditions that were too excessive.
The two sides could not come to an agreement, but they had a basic consensus. The Han people would withdraw from Xuzhou and allow the Barbarian Governor to form his own country. This was absolutely impossible. Even if the King of Shu agreed, the Imperial Court would never agree to it. The Barbarian Governor had put forward such an outrageous condition. It was very likely that he was leaving it for the Imperial Court to bargain, so that he could demand a higher price.
Yang Ling had expected that there wouldn't be any results if he were to sit there and discuss things unilaterally. He had purposely discussed politics in public because he had just gained power, and he didn't want others to feel that he was acting arbitrarily and obstinate.
He sat at the head of the table, holding the Shangfang sword and the imperial envoy's official seal wrapped in yellow silk. When the two sides were in a heated argument, the imperial envoy slammed the table and said decisively, "To fight or not to fight, let's go first. We can come up with a hundred ideas here, but the Governor of the Barbarians must agree to it. If we keep talking here, isn't that just talking on paper?
Where is the Governor of the Barbarians? In the deep mountains and forests of Xuzhou! I have already noted down the opinions of both sides. When we reach Xuzhou and find out the bottom line of the Governor of the Barbarians, only then can we make a decision. I now announce that the Governor of the Barbarians, Li Sen, will lead an army of 70,000 and immediately set out for Xuzhou. "
That place is steep and narrow. Sending a million soldiers, only 20,000 can directly fight the Governor of the Barbarians. 70,000 soldiers are more than enough. At the same time, I, the Second Prince, the Administrative Commissioner Feng, and the Prefectural Magistrate Wu will head to Xuzhou. Administrative Commissioner An and Inspector Lu will stay in Chengdu to oversee the situation.
Accompanying them are people from the Administrative Commissioner's yamen and the Prefectural Magistrate's yamen. Most importantly, the second son of the King of Shu will also be accompanying the army. What other opinions can anyone have? Therefore, both sides retreated. When Yang Ling saw this, he flicked his sleeves and shouted, "Immediately set out for Xuzhou. Civil and military officials, perform your duties. Those who delay my orders will be killed without mercy. Dismissed! "
The 70,000 soldiers had to be mobilized from all over. When the order was given, the army went to Xuzhou on their own. There were only 15,000 soldiers set out from Chengdu. However, these fifteen thousand people were also majestic and mighty, especially when the rear team was pulling a big cannon, it looked very frightening. But the local officials and scholars who were knowledgeable shook their heads, thinking, 'Does this imperial envoy think he is fighting the Tartars in the north?' The living quarters of the Barbarians were incomparably dangerous, and it was difficult for the soldiers to travel. It would be a miracle if he could even transport one of these cannons into the mountains. As for whether it would be effective against the natural fortresses and the steep cliffs, only God knew.
But Yang Ling did not care at all. He did not care what others thought of him. Ever since Ming Destiny established the country, he and the Barbarians were like a pair of enemies. They had been fighting for more than a hundred years. They had sent out countless famous generals and at most 250,000 soldiers, but they could not do anything to the Barbarians.
There was no other reason. It was not because the Barbarians had sharp weapons, nor was it because they had great wisdom. Although these barbarians were brave, it was still a bit exaggerated to say that one of them could fight a hundred. If it was a real war, thirty to fifty thousand soldiers would be enough.
The problem was that the mountains and rivers were barren. No matter how skillful a famous general was, he could only wave flags and shout war cries in the back when a real war broke out. For example, on the more than 30 miles long narrow path in front of Jiusi City, if hundreds of people were sent to ambush and kill in the bushes, the Barbarians' army would not be able to pass through.
The famous general's strategy and invincible army could only return in defeat in the face of the power of heaven and earth and this uncanny masterpiece. The Barbarians in ragged clothes, who looked like beggars, and whose civilization was still in a state of ignorance, were free to roam the mountains.
What Yang Ling wanted was to give people a false impression that his strategy was no different from the other Barbarians who had encircled the Barbarians, so as to belittle their morale. As for Yang Ling's clever plan to win the war, it was still in preparation. He needed as much information as possible from Liu Biao in order to come up with a solution to the problem.
In the Song Dynasty, before the army set out, the emperor first drew a formation map and gave it to the general to fill the prescription. At that time, whether it was the general in the army or the officials in the court, no one felt that there was anything wrong. But in the eyes of Yang Ling, it was extremely absurd.
When it came to the front lines, it was impossible to predict the strength of the enemy, the location of the battle, the tactics of the enemy, the morale of the army, and even the weather. If one insisted on fighting according to the formation map drawn in advance, how could one not be defeated if one rigidly followed the rules?
At that time, when the intelligence system was extremely underdeveloped, Yang Ling felt that it was equally irresponsible for a general to draw up a specific strategy and tactics before going out to battle. Thus, he did not feel the slightest unease over the fact that he was the commander-in-chief and did not have a specific strategy. On the contrary, he felt that it was only right and proper.
※ ※ ※
Two days after the army left, three fast horses rushed from the capital to Chengdu. They only stopped for a few moments at the imperial envoy's residence before galloping off to Xuzhou.
When Yang Ling arrived at Xuzhou, he first settled down. Wu Tongzhi was in charge of military supplies. In the early stages, he was the busiest person. After greeting the imperial envoy, he also went to arrange for provisions.
Li Sen, on the other hand, arranged for the troops that arrived one after the other, set up camps, set up sand tables, understood the situation of the barbarians in the nearby counties, and discussed matters with the generals in the army. He was extremely busy.
When Liu Biao heard that Yang Ling had arrived, he immediately rushed over to meet him. When Yang Ling's bodyguards led him into Yang Ling's large tent, Liu Biao saw that Yang Ling was dressed in a soft white robe and had his hair tied up with a silk scarf. He had an elegant demeanor, like a refined scholar, without the slightest air of a general. However, standing behind him was a lieutenant colonel in full military uniform.
Liu Biao cupped his hands in salute to Yang Ling and said: "Paying respects to Milord."
"Sit, sit, don't stand on ceremony. Looking at your appearance, you must be tired from running around these past few days. Try this Emei Bamboo Leaf Green. It's shaped like West Lake Longjing, but the taste is different. Moisten your throat first and refresh your mind. "
"Yes, thank you, Milord." Liu Biao smiled and accepted the cup of tea to take a sip. Suddenly, he felt that the lieutenant colonel behind Yang Ling was somewhat familiar, and the way he looked at him was also unusual.
Liu Biao looked back at him carefully: "What a handsome lieutenant, red lips, white teeth, willowy eyebrows and almond-shaped eyes, just like a sixteen year old girl." Liu Biao's eyes lit up: "Where did Milord find this person? High officials and nobles are usually interested in men. Could it be that Milord has enough of women and wants to try the taste of a catamite?"
At that time, being interested in men was a kind of fashion and was not despised by the people of the time, so Liu Biao just smiled and thought about it. Unexpectedly, when the handsome young man saw him looking at him, he suddenly pursed his lips into a smile and winked at him.
This smile was full of femininity. Liu Biao suddenly opened his eyes wide and spat out a mouthful of tea: "Isn't … isn't this Commander Song?"
Liu Biao was stunned and said: "Isn't Milord Song staying in Chengdu? I didn't hear that the Wolf Army is also in Xuzhou. "
Yang Ling looked back at Song Ai and said with a smile, "Even you were fooled? That's good, don't tell anyone. The Wolf Army can walk in the Shiwan Mountain as if they are walking on flat ground. They will be useful in this place. At least, they are better at mountain and jungle warfare than our official army. This is a surprise troop of mine. I haven't thought about how to use it yet, so I'll wait for your news. "
Liu Biao calmed down and said with a wry smile: "Of course, my people will not pay special attention to the news of Milord Song, but we have always been concerned about your whereabouts. To be able to hide it from their eyes and ears, Milord Song is really good at keeping secrets."
He took a sip of tea and put down the cup. He summarized the information collected by his subordinates and told Yang Ling one by one. As Yang Ling listened, he casually wrote down the main points on a piece of paper: the place where all the barbarians lived, the distribution of the tribes, the composition of the villages, the approximate proportion of men, women, old and young, their favorite foods, local customs, ethnic habits, and even what festivals they celebrated, as well as their religious beliefs. These were all things that the generals did not pay much attention to when they were fighting against the barbarians, but Yang Ling did not reveal a single thing.
"They originally lived in the nearby six counties, Rong County, Jie Gao, Ji County, Yunlian County, Chang Ning, Jiang An, and Naxi County. After the conflict with the Han people, they plundered in all directions, killed hundreds of good people, robbed a lot of provisions, and even took the opportunity to rape women. Then they gathered in the capital stockade, Lingxiao City, Jiusi City, and other dangerous places. But after the Prince was detained, they seemed to have something to rely on. They thought that the soldiers did not dare to hurt them. The crops in the fields are almost ripe and need to be harvested, so many people have returned to the villages."
"In addition to Fadu stockade, Jiusi City, Lingxiao City, and other dangerous places, which Milord Song already knows, there is also King Cheng Mountain where the barbarians gather. In the Tang and Song Dynasties, there was a stone stockade built halfway up the mountain. The stockade was built around the mountain, and the walls were made of huge stones. It was about ten feet high, and the area of the stockade was more than one hundred acres. There was a big stockade gate and a small stockade gate, so it was called the stone stockade.
The mountain is steep on all sides, and there is no path down the mountain. There is only a narrow path between the western pass and Mount Hua Qi. The path up the mountain is made of huge stones, and the walls stretch out for several hundred meters. It can be said that it is easy to defend and difficult to attack … "
Yang Ling memorized everything. Right now, he was only listening to Liu Biao's narration, so he did not have a clear idea of what was going on. After the army set up camp, they had to first get in touch with the barbarians to see how they could rescue the Prince. If negotiations failed, then they could mobilize the army. Thus, he was not in a rush. He only needed to understand all aspects of the situation and prepare for a rainy day.
"You said that the barbarians use bronze drums as their wealth? Don't they use gold and silver? "Yang Ling put down his brush and asked curiously.
"No, gold and silver are probably equally valuable to all the tribes. However, just like how the Tibetans use the number of cattle and sheep to represent their wealth, the barbarians use bronze drums to represent their wealth. A high-grade bronze drum is worth two hundred taels of silver, which can be exchanged for a thousand cattle.
The barbarians of the barbarians beat the drums when they drink, when they worship the gods, and when they lead the army into battle. Thus, in their eyes, the bronze drum is not only a symbol of wealth, it also represents power, luck, and bravery. If there are three or four large bronze drums in the house, that person's status in the tribe will be high, and everyone will revere him or her.
The barbarians of the barbarians look down on the Han people, but they only revere Zhuge Liang, believing that he is an undefeatable god. Thus, they named the bronze drum that represents their bravery and strength as the Zhuge Drum. "
Yang Ling muttered to himself as he recorded it down. Liu Biao continued, "The god that the barbarians worship is the Frog God, which is a frog. Their ritual of worship is to wear special clothes and imitate the movements of a frog, praying to the Frog God. Many of the cliffs and cliffs have large paintings of the Frog God painted by them. This lowly officer has seen one. The cliff is thousands of feet high, and even if they use ropes to tie it down, to paint such a large painting, who knows how much effort it takes. From this, it can be seen how much they worship the Frog God. "
Yang Ling did not know which of these miscellaneous things were useful and which were not, but he first recorded them down. The more he understood the temperament of the barbarians, the more he understood his opponents, and the higher his chances of victory would be.
Yang Ling said, "The barbarians have several thousand villages, scattered in the surrounding counties. The largest village only has a hundred or so people, but every time there is a war, they are able to gather quickly. Moreover, they are of one mind, united as a fortress. This tribe is indeed unique. I heard that their chief is surnamed Ah (pronounced Ha)?"
Liu Biao said, "Yes. In fact, the tribes of Shu, such as the Qiang, Yi, Miao, Ü-Tsang, have been living with the Han people for more than a hundred years, receiving the Han people's knowledge. Many of them have already assimilated into the Han people, and are called Huofan. Those who live in the remote mountainous areas are wild and difficult to tame. They often come out of the mountains to plunder the Han people's villages, and are called Shengfan. But the barbarians of the barbarians are different. They live alone and do not interact with the Han people.
But this' do not interact 'refers to the fact that they do not mix and interact with the Han people. They are extremely repulsed by the Han people, but they are very fond of many of the Han people's things. According to lowly officer's investigation, their Great Chief Ah Da has sent people to buy large quantities of porcelain and silk. Moreover, he is very envious of the ceremonial guards of the imperial court when they go on patrol.
There are some Han refugees who seek refuge with them who flatter and flatter them. They instigate Chief Ah Da to learn from the Han people and proclaim himself as the Emperor. Every time he goes on patrol, he rides a four-wheeled carriage, wearing clothes embroidered with dragons, with a yellow umbrella canopy on his head. Along the way, he beats gongs and drums. "
Liu Biao held back his laughter and said, "But Ah Da feels that the title 'Emperor' does not sound as impressive as' Great King '; therefore, he ordered his people to call him' Great King 'instead of' Emperor '. When he issues the order, he does not call it 'Imperial Edict', but 'Great King's Edict'. "
'Pfft!' Song Ai burst out in laughter. Hearing this, Yang Ling also could not help laughing. Right this moment, someone outside the door shouted, "The Imperial Edict has arrived, Yang Ling receives the Edict!"
Yang Ling was startled. Without thinking carefully, he hastily tidied up his clothes and went out of the tent. He saw three riders on three fine horses, looking travel-worn. On their shoulders were the special flags of 'Ten Thousand Great Emergency'. Zhu Rangjin, Chief Administrative Commissioner Feng Daren and the others were bewildered, following behind them.
Yang Ling's heart sank. What happened in the capital?
He hurriedly stepped forward, lifted his clothes and knelt down. With a loud voice he said, "Yang Ling receives the Edict."
The rider in the middle untied the yellow silk bundle on his shoulder and took out the Imperial Edict. He slowly unfolded it and said, "Bearing the will of the Emperor, the Imperial Edict reads: Wei Wu Hou, Zhu Guo Shang Jiang, Tidu of the Palace Attendants, Wei Wu Hou, has received the imperial edict to patrol the world.
From time to time, Wokou pirates and barbarians have attacked and harassed the southern border waters. With the army of six provinces, Your Excellency has become an army of tigers and wolves. Armed with armor, Your Excellency is like a hot knife cutting through butter, sweeping everything before you. Your Excellency has raised my prestige and your military achievements are illustrious. Looking at the imperial court, if I wish to promote someone who is wise and brave enough to handle internal and external affairs, there is no one like Your Excellency.
My beloved Excellency has worked wholeheartedly and has worked hard for the country. Your Excellency's wife, Han Shi, conducts herself well. She is gentle and quiet, virtuous and virtuous, managing the household well … "
Yang Ling quietly moved his numb knee. In his heart he said, "Damn it, this definitely wasn't written by His Majesty. I don't know what His Majesty is thinking. Most likely he is going to reward me. There's so much nonsense in front!"
The rider on the horse changed his tone and continued, "Today Your Excellency's wife, Han Shi, has given birth to a Lin son. He is smart and adorable, his character is handsome. Zhen is very happy and will accept him as my adopted son …"
Yang Ling's head exploded and his body seemed to suddenly float up. "Young-niang has given birth to a son. Young-niang has given birth to a son for me!" Yang Ling was so happy that he wanted to shout and jump for joy. Whatever was said next, he could not hear at all. He only felt his eardrums were buzzing, as if he had drunk two catties of strong wine.
The rider on the horse continued, "Your Excellency's meritorious service cannot be repeated. Today you will be conferred the title of First-class Marquis. Your Excellency's wife, Han Shi, will be conferred the title of First-class Lady. Your beloved Excellency's son, will be conferred the title of General Wu De and promoted to General Wu Jie. Your descendants will be Zhen's descendants. My descendants will enjoy ten thousand years of good fortune. Your descendants will enjoy ten thousand years of happiness. Your descendants will enjoy ten thousand years of happiness with the country. The brilliant words of Heaven are written in the imperial edict to be observed together. End of Emperor! "
Although Yang Ling was originally a Marquis, it could not be inherited. Now that he was promoted to First-class Marquis, the title of Marquis could be inherited. Although it was only a difference of rank, it was an extremely difficult step to take. When the surrounding officials heard this, they were all extremely envious.
As for Han Youniang, when Yang Ling was conferred the title of Great General of the Pillar of the State, she was already a First-class Marquis. However, this First-class Madam was not a Title of Nobility. A Title of Nobility came with an imperial edict, an official's robe, and a salary. Naturally, the treatment and status were different.
The most incredible was his precious son, who had not even seen what he looked like. Although he was a hereditary Little Marquis, his father was still alive and he did not have any title of nobility or official position. Now that the Emperor had adopted him as his son, he did not even know how to call his mother. Yet, he had become a First-class General of Martial Integrity. Although he was dismissed from his post, he still received a salary from the court.
A few days ago, there were rumors that Yang Ling had lost the Emperor's favor. This favor was obviously incomparable. Yang Ling did not see the complicated expressions on everyone's faces. After listening to the imperial edict, he knelt there in a daze for a long time. His heart had long flown back to Beijing, back to the Marquis fu, thinking of his beloved wife and son.
Towards this most favored official of the Emperor, the capital messenger did not dare to offend. Seeing that he did not accept the imperial edict, the Imperial Bodyguard jumped off his horse and went forward to help him up with a smile. He said, "Congratulations Marquis, please accept the imperial edict."
"Ah!" Yang Ling finally reacted. He hurriedly received the imperial edict with both hands and said, "Thank you for the Emperor's great kindness!" Yang Ling accepted the imperial edict and stood up. The Imperial Bodyguard said, "The Emperor has given His Highness a name. The Emperor said that his name is good. If Daren wants to give his son a name, it is fine. However, when he is registered, he must write the name given by the Emperor."
Yang Ling had just come back to his senses when he heard this. Last time, the Emperor wanted to unify the country and have a longevity of ten thousand years, so he casually gave himself a name called Wan Nian. This Emperor was a bit unreliable. Who knew what name he would give his son this time?
Yang Ling said nervously, "Yes, this official obeys. But I don't know, what name did the Emperor give to this official's son? "
The embroidered officer sniffed and said with a strange expression, "The Emperor hopes that His Highness will grow up soon and be able to be loyal to the country. So he gave him a name, Mr Yang!"
…
"Mr Yang, congratulations." The surrounding officials rushed forward, their faces full of envy as they congratulated him.
"Ah ah, many thanks, many thanks. Same to you, same to you." Yang Ling did not know whether to laugh or cry. He returned the greetings one by one, feeling awkward all over.
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