As the war was about to start, the incense at the Huai’en Temple became lively again. Not to mention the wives and daughters of the soldiers, even the families of the military commanders were likely to come and burn incense. After all, weapons have no eyes, and with the blessings of gods and Buddhas, people felt a bit more at ease.
Due to the large number of people coming to offer incense, the high-ranking women could not easily show themselves. Often, they would ride in light carriages, directly entering the courtyard, and then, guided by the hosting monks, proceed to the side hall to offer incense. Today, even the carriage of General Fenwei had arrived at the temple. However, after the carriage stopped, the person who got off was not a female family member but General Fenwei himself.
In just a few days, Linghu Sheng seemed to have aged significantly. Recruiting soldiers was not an easy task. The military households had been turned upside down, and the laborers composed of refugees needed to be supervised. With the chaotic preparations for war, the soldiers in the army could no longer contain their complaints. And that was not all. Perhaps startled by the actions of General Pei, even the aristocratic families in the city began to move frequently, showing signs of unrest. The Linghu family was also a prominent family in Taiyuan, and with Linghu Sheng being a military commander in this battle, how could they remain indifferent? In such a situation, staying in the mansion was simply tormenting day by day.
“General, this way, please,” a knowledgeable monk gestured respectfully.
After adjusting his emotions, Linghu Sheng remained silent, following the monk into the courtyard. The courtyard of the Huai’en Temple had a certain elegance, with winding paths, lush trees, and bamboo. Without the hustle and bustle of the incense-burning crowd, it was serene. Passing through the corridor, the two stopped in front of a meditation room. After the monk announced their arrival, he pushed open the door.
Stepping forward, Linghu Sheng bowed to the man sitting by the window in the meditation room and said, “I pay my respects to the Lord.”
“General Linghu, there’s no need for much courtesy. Please, have a seat.” Although dressed plainly and with a pale complexion, Liang Feng’s expression was not as peaceful as the meditation room suggested. On the contrary, he appeared calm and solemn, as if he had a well-thought-out plan.
Upon seeing the appearance of Governor Liang, Linghu Sheng unexpectedly felt a sense of relief, and he sat down at the table as per the etiquette. Today was a confidential discussion, and Linghu Sheng had been invited by Liang Feng to meet at the Huai’en Temple. After all, as a major general under General Pei, it was not appropriate for the two to meet before the battle. Caution was necessary.
Once everyone was seated and tea was served, Liang Feng spoke slowly, “These days, General Linghu, your efforts in recruiting soldiers have been truly arduous.”
“Thanks to the Lord persuading General Pei to change the conscription to labor. If not for that, there might have been unrest outside the city on that day.” Linghu Sheng sighed lightly. “Even so, it was still quite chaotic for us…”
Whether intentional or not, the news of Pei Dun’s concern for Hedong has now spread throughout the aristocratic families in Jinyang. Unlike other provinces, Bing County has always been known for its vigorous and martial nature. Therefore, both large and small noble families have a tradition of martial arts. In the Jinyang army, there are numerous powerful and wealthy families. Therefore, Pei Dun’s order to mobilize has stirred up a hornet’s nest.
Taking advantage of the weakness of the Xiongnu, reclaiming Lishi is not a problem. But to go and attack Lishi to relieve the siege of Hedong? They had just caught their breath from the siege; how could they disregard their own interests and serve others first?
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Liang Feng sneered, “Is there anyone who has spoken to General Linghu about this?”
“The Guo, Sun, Zheng, and Li families all have visited…” Linghu Sheng carefully chose his words, “It seems that, except for the Wang family, most of the noble families in Jinyang harbor resentment towards that person.”
Although the Wang family is the head of the Taiyuan noble families, their current position is somewhat awkward. They are related to Pei Dun through marriage and were almost connected to Liang Feng through marriage. With Wang Wen absent from Bing County, their stance is even more ambiguous. However, even if bypassing the Wang family, the high-ranking families in Bing County have all shown the appropriate attitude. Of course, the cause of this situation is also related to Sun Li’s previous activities.
Liang Feng nodded, “Bing County is not the land of a single family. When someone goes against the general sentiment, it will naturally incur public anger.”
“What should we do then?” Linghu Sheng asked in a low voice.
Even if the high-ranking families dislike this new peace general, the military order is there. Moreover, Pei Dun has already reported to the court, requesting provisions and military supplies, making it impossible to retract the command. This expedition is indeed unavoidable. So, how to handle this battle becomes even more crucial. Should they, in the event of defeat, jointly submit a memorial to the court, urging the dismissal of Pei Dun? Or should they unite with the various noble families in Jinyang, exerting pressure on Pei Dun, to see if they can make him see reason and withdraw?
“Does General Linghu think this battle is difficult to win?” Liang Feng asked in return.
“Lishi has few troops, but it’s the Xiongnu’s rear. I’m afraid that once the battle starts, they will send out a formidable general. Moreover, the Xianbei from the newly established county is troublesome. If they take the opportunity to attack Jinyang, our army will be caught in a pincer attack. How can we win?” Linghu Sheng, experienced in battles, naturally understands the current situation.
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“Lishi cannot be conquered. Even if it is conquered, it cannot be sustained.” Liang Feng gave a straightforward answer. Lishi has been plagued by locusts for a year, and not only is there a shortage of food, but even grass is scarce. Conquering such a place would be in vain, as it cannot be garrisoned and developed in the short term. It would also face attacks from the Xiongnu, making it not worth the effort.
Linghu Sheng was about to nod, but unexpectedly, Liang Feng continued, “So, if Lishi is hopeless, what about the other cities?”
Linghu Sheng was stunned, blinking involuntarily. “Is the lord planning to attack other cities?”
“This time, Shangdang will also send troops to assist General Pei.” Liang Feng revealed the news that others were not aware of.
Linghu Sheng snorted softly, “If the Xiongnu focus on the main army, the defenses of Jingling and Zhongdu may relax. But, isn’t the lord treating the main army as bait with this move?”
“This time, what achievements can be expected from the expedition?” Liang Feng countered.
“Well…” Linghu Sheng was momentarily at a loss for words. Indeed, with the chaos in people’s hearts, what achievements could be expected? However, he quickly recovered, “In that case, isn’t the lord violating military orders?”
The side force from Shangdang is meant to support the main force. If they go to attack a city like this, Pei Dun will definitely place all the blame on Liang Feng. Even if they win, it might not yield any substantial gains.
“The battlefield is ever-changing; who knows what might happen. I heard that the central army is accompanied by Yuan Jun?” Liang Feng didn’t give a direct answer, abruptly changing the topic.
A thin layer of sweat formed on Linghu Sheng’s back. Could it be that…
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However, those sharp black eyes on the opposite side were unparalleled and filled with a resolute determination. Despite the words being at the tip of his tongue, Linghu Sheng changed his statement, “What the lord said is indeed true. There are risks in going to battle, and whether it brings fortune or disaster, who can predict?”
Hearing Linghu Sheng’s response, Liang Feng nodded satisfactorily, “This attack on Lishi remains extremely perilous. I hope General Linghu will be careful and not lose control of the main army. The fate of the Bing County army depends largely on General Linghu’s ability to keep this spark alive.”
“This, I will certainly do my utmost.” Linghu Sheng’s response this time was much firmer. The words he just uttered almost sealed Pei Dun’s fate. It seems that Governor Liang has no intention of letting General Pei return to Jinyang. However, as long as it’s not their own doing, Linghu Sheng doesn’t mind letting that Pei suffer the consequences. After all, if you’re the one going to battle, and in the unfortunate event of death, it can only be considered sacrificing oneself for the country. As for Linghu himself, the key is to save more soldiers’ lives.
“Oh, by the way,” Linghu Sheng thought of something else, “If the Xianbei seizes the opportunity to attack Jinyang, what should we do?”
“I will guard Jinyang and the rear of the main army,” Liang Feng answered decisively.
This time, the bait is not just the Bing County army led by Pei Dun; Jinyang City is also bait. It remains to be seen whether the fish will die or the net will break.
No one knows the military strength under the command of this lord better than Linghu Sheng. Letting out a sigh of relief, he bowed again, “With the lord in command, it is truly a blessing for Bing County!”
Without a comparison, there is no distinction between superior and inferior. If another peace general or governor were to come, could they do better than the person in front of him? Linghu Sheng had now made up his mind; in troubled times, one must choose to align with capable individuals. Moreover, the Liang family has a genuine connection with Bing County. During Liang Xi’s rule, with political wisdom and military prowess, the various ethnic groups all retreated, creating a scene where even the barbarians dared not approach. Linghu Sheng wondered if he would have the chance to witness such a sight in his lifetime.
※
“Younger brother, it seems that our brothers may have difficulty gathering again after this.” In the military camp, Li Jun also wore a desolate expression.
Who could have expected that after the arrival of the new peace general, they would directly launch an attack on Lishi? Unfortunately, his unit, with military achievements but lacking connections, was selected as the vanguard. Lishi is the lair of the Xiongnu! If a real battle breaks out, the chances of success are unpredictable. His good fortune seems to have come to an end!
“Younger brother, your words are too pessimistic. In war, the brave will prevail. As long as the army is well led, we won’t lose too many troops.” Yiyan, who had been drinking with them for the past few days, was already familiar with them. He spoke up to console them.
“That’s easy for you, Yi Boyuan!” Li Jun snorted, “The soldiers in Jinyang are not like those in Shangdang. If you were with the army, it might be better. Now we have a military commander who is only concerned about Hedong. We should count ourselves lucky if we can survive.”
Not only Li Jun but even his subordinate officers sighed and lamented. The lower-ranking soldiers might not know, but these officers had long heard that someone surnamed Pei was unreliable. He used the Bing County troops to rescue his family in Hedong. If not for the strict military orders and the pressure from Shangdang, they might have all abandoned the cause. What kind of situation is this? Governor Liang arrived, rewarding everyone for their contributions in defending the city. But the peace general, disregarding their lives, is not like that. Instead of this, it would be better to let the governor take command!
“In these days, Brother Li has been diligent in training, and the soldiers have improved a lot. On the battlefield, there will be opportunities for survival.” Yiyan added.
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On this point, Li Jun couldn’t refute. Although he was a guest general, Yiyan had treated him well. The advice and guidance during training were indeed beneficial. However, he wondered if the skills honed on the practice field would be fast enough and sufficient to withstand the enemy on the battlefield.
“If I had known, I should have practiced a few more days.” Li Jun smiled bitterly. “Boyuan, you and the others guarding Jinyang, be careful. If Jinyang falls, it will be an irreversible disaster… Ah, no! Of course, it won’t fall!”
After Li Jun finished speaking, he realized that his words were too pessimistic. He spat a few times in succession to dispel the negativity. However, Yiyan’s expression remained unchanged. “Brother Li, rest assured. As long as the governor is in Jinyang, the city will never fall!”
His tone was extremely decisive, which relieved Li Jun. It’s hard to feel it until it’s time for battle, but who wouldn’t want such determined allies on their flank? With General Pei almost mobilizing all the defenders in the city, it seemed better to leave Yiyan and his men to guard the city than to leave behind the elderly and weak soldiers.
“Enough, it’s all fate!” Li Jun spat, lifted his wine bowl, and stood tall. “If I return safely this time, I’ll burn incense at Huai’en Temple for three days and three nights! Let me invite you for a hearty drink again!”
Suddenly bringing up Huai’en Temple, there was naturally some deeper meaning in his words. Li Jun was not a believer in Buddhism before.
Yiyan also stood up, raising his bowl in response. “Brother Li and all the brothers, don’t worry. This battle will surely end in a safe return!”
Although not explicitly stated, Yiyan understood that the hearts of these people had completely leaned toward the lord. As long as the methods he taught had some effect, this group of soldiers would surely be incorporated into the lord’s command, becoming another usable force. For this goal, he had thought of quite a few methods.
The wine bowls collided with a hearty sound, and not a drop was left after the toast.
Two days later, under the command of the general, the army gathered and set out, marching mightily toward Lishi!
As the war was about to start, the incense at the Huai’en Temple became lively again. Not to mention the wives and daughters of the soldiers, even the families of the military commanders were likely to come and burn incense. After all, weapons have no eyes, and with the blessings of gods and Buddhas, people felt a bit more at ease.
Due to the large number of people coming to offer incense, the high-ranking women could not easily show themselves. Often, they would ride in light carriages, directly entering the courtyard, and then, guided by the hosting monks, proceed to the side hall to offer incense. Today, even the carriage of General Fenwei had arrived at the temple. However, after the carriage stopped, the person who got off was not a female family member but General Fenwei himself.
In just a few days, Linghu Sheng seemed to have aged significantly. Recruiting soldiers was not an easy task. The military households had been turned upside down, and the laborers composed of refugees needed to be supervised. With the chaotic preparations for war, the soldiers in the army could no longer contain their complaints. And that was not all. Perhaps startled by the actions of General Pei, even the aristocratic families in the city began to move frequently, showing signs of unrest. The Linghu family was also a prominent family in Taiyuan, and with Linghu Sheng being a military commander in this battle, how could they remain indifferent? In such a situation, staying in the mansion was simply tormenting day by day.
“General, this way, please,” a knowledgeable monk gestured respectfully.
After adjusting his emotions, Linghu Sheng remained silent, following the monk into the courtyard. The courtyard of the Huai’en Temple had a certain elegance, with winding paths, lush trees, and bamboo. Without the hustle and bustle of the incense-burning crowd, it was serene. Passing through the corridor, the two stopped in front of a meditation room. After the monk announced their arrival, he pushed open the door.
Stepping forward, Linghu Sheng bowed to the man sitting by the window in the meditation room and said, “I pay my respects to the Lord.”
“General Linghu, there’s no need for much courtesy. Please, have a seat.” Although dressed plainly and with a pale complexion, Liang Feng’s expression was not as peaceful as the meditation room suggested. On the contrary, he appeared calm and solemn, as if he had a well-thought-out plan.
Upon seeing the appearance of Governor Liang, Linghu Sheng unexpectedly felt a sense of relief, and he sat down at the table as per the etiquette. Today was a confidential discussion, and Linghu Sheng had been invited by Liang Feng to meet at the Huai’en Temple. After all, as a major general under General Pei, it was not appropriate for the two to meet before the battle. Caution was necessary.
Once everyone was seated and tea was served, Liang Feng spoke slowly, “These days, General Linghu, your efforts in recruiting soldiers have been truly arduous.”
“Thanks to the Lord persuading General Pei to change the conscription to labor. If not for that, there might have been unrest outside the city on that day.” Linghu Sheng sighed lightly. “Even so, it was still quite chaotic for us…”
Whether intentional or not, the news of Pei Dun’s concern for Hedong has now spread throughout the aristocratic families in Jinyang. Unlike other provinces, Bing County has always been known for its vigorous and martial nature. Therefore, both large and small noble families have a tradition of martial arts. In the Jinyang army, there are numerous powerful and wealthy families. Therefore, Pei Dun’s order to mobilize has stirred up a hornet’s nest.
Taking advantage of the weakness of the Xiongnu, reclaiming Lishi is not a problem. But to go and attack Lishi to relieve the siege of Hedong? They had just caught their breath from the siege; how could they disregard their own interests and serve others first?
Advertisement
Liang Feng sneered, “Is there anyone who has spoken to General Linghu about this?”
“The Guo, Sun, Zheng, and Li families all have visited…” Linghu Sheng carefully chose his words, “It seems that, except for the Wang family, most of the noble families in Jinyang harbor resentment towards that person.”
Although the Wang family is the head of the Taiyuan noble families, their current position is somewhat awkward. They are related to Pei Dun through marriage and were almost connected to Liang Feng through marriage. With Wang Wen absent from Bing County, their stance is even more ambiguous. However, even if bypassing the Wang family, the high-ranking families in Bing County have all shown the appropriate attitude. Of course, the cause of this situation is also related to Sun Li’s previous activities.
Liang Feng nodded, “Bing County is not the land of a single family. When someone goes against the general sentiment, it will naturally incur public anger.”
“What should we do then?” Linghu Sheng asked in a low voice.
Even if the high-ranking families dislike this new peace general, the military order is there. Moreover, Pei Dun has already reported to the court, requesting provisions and military supplies, making it impossible to retract the command. This expedition is indeed unavoidable. So, how to handle this battle becomes even more crucial. Should they, in the event of defeat, jointly submit a memorial to the court, urging the dismissal of Pei Dun? Or should they unite with the various noble families in Jinyang, exerting pressure on Pei Dun, to see if they can make him see reason and withdraw?
“Does General Linghu think this battle is difficult to win?” Liang Feng asked in return.
“Lishi has few troops, but it’s the Xiongnu’s rear. I’m afraid that once the battle starts, they will send out a formidable general. Moreover, the Xianbei from the newly established county is troublesome. If they take the opportunity to attack Jinyang, our army will be caught in a pincer attack. How can we win?” Linghu Sheng, experienced in battles, naturally understands the current situation.
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“Lishi cannot be conquered. Even if it is conquered, it cannot be sustained.” Liang Feng gave a straightforward answer. Lishi has been plagued by locusts for a year, and not only is there a shortage of food, but even grass is scarce. Conquering such a place would be in vain, as it cannot be garrisoned and developed in the short term. It would also face attacks from the Xiongnu, making it not worth the effort.
Linghu Sheng was about to nod, but unexpectedly, Liang Feng continued, “So, if Lishi is hopeless, what about the other cities?”
Linghu Sheng was stunned, blinking involuntarily. “Is the lord planning to attack other cities?”
“This time, Shangdang will also send troops to assist General Pei.” Liang Feng revealed the news that others were not aware of.
Linghu Sheng snorted softly, “If the Xiongnu focus on the main army, the defenses of Jingling and Zhongdu may relax. But, isn’t the lord treating the main army as bait with this move?”
“This time, what achievements can be expected from the expedition?” Liang Feng countered.
“Well…” Linghu Sheng was momentarily at a loss for words. Indeed, with the chaos in people’s hearts, what achievements could be expected? However, he quickly recovered, “In that case, isn’t the lord violating military orders?”
The side force from Shangdang is meant to support the main force. If they go to attack a city like this, Pei Dun will definitely place all the blame on Liang Feng. Even if they win, it might not yield any substantial gains.
“The battlefield is ever-changing; who knows what might happen. I heard that the central army is accompanied by Yuan Jun?” Liang Feng didn’t give a direct answer, abruptly changing the topic.
A thin layer of sweat formed on Linghu Sheng’s back. Could it be that…
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However, those sharp black eyes on the opposite side were unparalleled and filled with a resolute determination. Despite the words being at the tip of his tongue, Linghu Sheng changed his statement, “What the lord said is indeed true. There are risks in going to battle, and whether it brings fortune or disaster, who can predict?”
Hearing Linghu Sheng’s response, Liang Feng nodded satisfactorily, “This attack on Lishi remains extremely perilous. I hope General Linghu will be careful and not lose control of the main army. The fate of the Bing County army depends largely on General Linghu’s ability to keep this spark alive.”
“This, I will certainly do my utmost.” Linghu Sheng’s response this time was much firmer. The words he just uttered almost sealed Pei Dun’s fate. It seems that Governor Liang has no intention of letting General Pei return to Jinyang. However, as long as it’s not their own doing, Linghu Sheng doesn’t mind letting that Pei suffer the consequences. After all, if you’re the one going to battle, and in the unfortunate event of death, it can only be considered sacrificing oneself for the country. As for Linghu himself, the key is to save more soldiers’ lives.
“Oh, by the way,” Linghu Sheng thought of something else, “If the Xianbei seizes the opportunity to attack Jinyang, what should we do?”
“I will guard Jinyang and the rear of the main army,” Liang Feng answered decisively.
This time, the bait is not just the Bing County army led by Pei Dun; Jinyang City is also bait. It remains to be seen whether the fish will die or the net will break.
No one knows the military strength under the command of this lord better than Linghu Sheng. Letting out a sigh of relief, he bowed again, “With the lord in command, it is truly a blessing for Bing County!”
Without a comparison, there is no distinction between superior and inferior. If another peace general or governor were to come, could they do better than the person in front of him? Linghu Sheng had now made up his mind; in troubled times, one must choose to align with capable individuals. Moreover, the Liang family has a genuine connection with Bing County. During Liang Xi’s rule, with political wisdom and military prowess, the various ethnic groups all retreated, creating a scene where even the barbarians dared not approach. Linghu Sheng wondered if he would have the chance to witness such a sight in his lifetime.
※
“Younger brother, it seems that our brothers may have difficulty gathering again after this.” In the military camp, Li Jun also wore a desolate expression.
Who could have expected that after the arrival of the new peace general, they would directly launch an attack on Lishi? Unfortunately, his unit, with military achievements but lacking connections, was selected as the vanguard. Lishi is the lair of the Xiongnu! If a real battle breaks out, the chances of success are unpredictable. His good fortune seems to have come to an end!
“Younger brother, your words are too pessimistic. In war, the brave will prevail. As long as the army is well led, we won’t lose too many troops.” Yiyan, who had been drinking with them for the past few days, was already familiar with them. He spoke up to console them.
“That’s easy for you, Yi Boyuan!” Li Jun snorted, “The soldiers in Jinyang are not like those in Shangdang. If you were with the army, it might be better. Now we have a military commander who is only concerned about Hedong. We should count ourselves lucky if we can survive.”
Not only Li Jun but even his subordinate officers sighed and lamented. The lower-ranking soldiers might not know, but these officers had long heard that someone surnamed Pei was unreliable. He used the Bing County troops to rescue his family in Hedong. If not for the strict military orders and the pressure from Shangdang, they might have all abandoned the cause. What kind of situation is this? Governor Liang arrived, rewarding everyone for their contributions in defending the city. But the peace general, disregarding their lives, is not like that. Instead of this, it would be better to let the governor take command!
“In these days, Brother Li has been diligent in training, and the soldiers have improved a lot. On the battlefield, there will be opportunities for survival.” Yiyan added.
Advertisement
On this point, Li Jun couldn’t refute. Although he was a guest general, Yiyan had treated him well. The advice and guidance during training were indeed beneficial. However, he wondered if the skills honed on the practice field would be fast enough and sufficient to withstand the enemy on the battlefield.
“If I had known, I should have practiced a few more days.” Li Jun smiled bitterly. “Boyuan, you and the others guarding Jinyang, be careful. If Jinyang falls, it will be an irreversible disaster… Ah, no! Of course, it won’t fall!”
After Li Jun finished speaking, he realized that his words were too pessimistic. He spat a few times in succession to dispel the negativity. However, Yiyan’s expression remained unchanged. “Brother Li, rest assured. As long as the governor is in Jinyang, the city will never fall!”
His tone was extremely decisive, which relieved Li Jun. It’s hard to feel it until it’s time for battle, but who wouldn’t want such determined allies on their flank? With General Pei almost mobilizing all the defenders in the city, it seemed better to leave Yiyan and his men to guard the city than to leave behind the elderly and weak soldiers.
“Enough, it’s all fate!” Li Jun spat, lifted his wine bowl, and stood tall. “If I return safely this time, I’ll burn incense at Huai’en Temple for three days and three nights! Let me invite you for a hearty drink again!”
Suddenly bringing up Huai’en Temple, there was naturally some deeper meaning in his words. Li Jun was not a believer in Buddhism before.
Yiyan also stood up, raising his bowl in response. “Brother Li and all the brothers, don’t worry. This battle will surely end in a safe return!”
Although not explicitly stated, Yiyan understood that the hearts of these people had completely leaned toward the lord. As long as the methods he taught had some effect, this group of soldiers would surely be incorporated into the lord’s command, becoming another usable force. For this goal, he had thought of quite a few methods.
The wine bowls collided with a hearty sound, and not a drop was left after the toast.
Two days later, under the command of the general, the army gathered and set out, marching mightily toward Lishi!
