Done! Your Majesty is going to prostitute me for free!

General Dingguo was one of the most valiant generals in the Dashi Army. He was tall and muscular, like a walking iron tower. When he stood there, people were in awe. His eyes were as sharp as an eagle, as if he could see through people's hearts, making people dare not look directly at him. I remember one time, he knocked down Wang Zhaolin, the son-in-law of Ruan Shiwu, with a heavy punch. That punch made a sound like thunder, and Wang Zhaolin fell to the ground seriously injured on the spot. The people around were dumbfounded and talked about it: "General Dingguo's punch is really powerful!"

However, at this moment, General Dingguo was in an unprecedented predicament. King Zhang Xianzhong issued an order to temporarily take back his military power. This news was like a bolt from the blue, which made General Dingguo feel very uncomfortable. He knew that although some people suspected that he was a spy, he was absolutely working for Dashi sincerely. He thought of the past days when he was just a child. When he was hungry, it was King Zhang Xianzhong who gave him food to keep him alive. He would never forget this kindness until his death.

Now, Li Dingguo seemed to have walked into a dead end. He wanted to prove that he was not a spy, but he had no evidence; he wanted to get his military power back, but he had no idea. He sat in the tent, his brows furrowed, his eyes revealing helplessness and anxiety. There was a lot of discussion in the tent, and General Gao Wengui was very worried, fearing that Sun Kewang would become suspicious of the generals. If there was an internal strife, the whole army would suffer. He walked up to General Dingguo and whispered, "General Dingguo, what should we do about this? We have to think of a way!"

General Dingguo looked up at General Gao Wengui and smiled bitterly: "Wengui, I can't think of any good solution. But we can't panic and have to keep calm. I believe the king will see through everything."

However, things did not develop as General Dingguo imagined. The military order was overwhelming, saying that Li Dingguo was to lead the troops to the south to attack Anlu Prefecture. When Li Dingguo heard this, his heart skipped a beat. He knew that this trip would be dangerous, but he could not disobey the military order. He could only bite the bullet and secretly swear before setting off that he would do his best to protect every brother under his command, which was also a way to repay the kindness of King Zhang Xianzhong.

Night fell, and the sky was full of stars. Li Dingguo looked up at the starry sky, feeling mixed emotions. He thought of the days when he survived in the wilderness, when he had to fight wild beasts and hunger alone. Looking at the current predicament, he had no idea what to do in the future. But as a military commander, he knew how heavy the burden on his shoulders was. No matter how dangerous and uncertain the road ahead was, he had to grit his teeth and move forward.

He took a deep breath, trying to calm his heart. He knew that now was not the time to feel sorry for himself, but to cheer up and lead his brothers to fight. He stood up, walked out of the tent, looked at the dark forest in the distance, and a surge of ambition surged in his heart.

"Brothers!" he shouted loudly, "Although we have encountered difficulties, we are the warriors of the Dashi Army! We are not afraid of death! We must do our best for the foundation of Dashi, for our families and brothers!"

His voice echoed in the night sky, inspiring every soldier who heard his words. They responded to General Dingguo's call and prepared to set off with high morale.

Before setting off, Li Dingguo looked back at the tent of King Zhang Xianzhong. He silently said in his heart: "King, I will not let you down. I will definitely return safely with my brothers. For Daxi, for you, I am willing to give everything!"

Then, he turned around and strode to the front of the team. His figure looked particularly tall and mighty in the night, like a fearless god of war. He led the team and embarked on the journey to Anlu Prefecture.

On the way, they encountered many difficulties. The mountain roads were rugged and difficult to travel, and the weather was unpredictable, sometimes it rained heavily, and sometimes it was scorching hot. But Li Dingguo always adhered to his beliefs. He constantly encouraged the soldiers and led them to overcome difficulties one after another.

Finally, they arrived at the city of Anlu Prefecture. Li Dingguo looked up at the sturdy city, and a surge of ambition surged in his heart. He knew that this was a tough battle, but he also understood that only by defeating this city could he prove his innocence and loyalty.

He waved the sword in his hand and shouted loudly: "Brothers! Charge! For Daxi! For our glory!"

Soldiers responded to his call and marched forward bravely. They fought fiercely with the enemy, swords and shadows intertwined, and flesh and blood collided on the battlefield.

Li Dingguo led the way, wielding his sword and slashing at the enemy like chopping melons and vegetables. His bravery inspired every soldier to follow his example and fight the enemy to the death.

The battle lasted a whole day and night, with heavy casualties on both sides. But in the end, Li Dingguo led his soldiers to break through the city with his firm belief and tenacious perseverance. They won!

When Li Dingguo stood on the tower and looked into the distance, he knew that this victory was not only a blow to the enemy but also a proof of his innocence. He believed that King Zhang Xianzhong would understand his loyalty and dedication.

He took a deep breath, feeling the joy of victory and exhaustion mixed together. He knew that this battle was just a test in his life, and the road ahead was still very long.

But he also understood that as long as he had firm faith in his heart and the determination to move forward, he would be able to overcome all difficulties and move towards a brighter future.

Anlu Storm
The city of Anlu has a long history. It was built in the Tang Dynasty and has been continuously repaired in the Song and Yuan Dynasties. During the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty, it had been promoted from a small county town to Anlu Prefecture, and the government office was majestically located in the city. The magnificent city wall is breathtaking. It is three meters high and seven miles around the city. On the city wall, towers, arrow towers, and corner towers are densely distributed, like a solid barrier, guarding this ancient city. Outside the city, a wide moat flows quietly, and the water surface is also three meters wide. It is not easy to conquer this city. The city wall is made of hard stones and is extremely strong. Even the red cannon needs to be bombarded for several days before it can show some damage.

Li Dingguo only had 5,000 cavalrymen and was not well trained in siege. It would be extremely difficult for him to capture Anlu. Gao Wengui told Li Dingguo everything about the situation in the city. After hearing this, Li Dingguo was silent for a long time, thinking to himself that Zhang Xianzhong's order was too harsh.

"General, don't hesitate! Zhang Xianzhong is so cruel, why should we be loyal to him? What's the point of dying in vain? It's better to rebel!" Gao Wengui was very excited, his eyes were wide open, his fists were clenched, as if he wanted to pour out all his anger. Li Dingguo glared at him and shouted: "Shut up!" Then he decisively ordered: "Tianwei Camp, pack up immediately and follow me to Anlu City!" Five thousand cavalrymen moved upon hearing the order, quickly packed up and were ready to go.

After Li Dingguo led his army away, Zhang Xianzhong frowned. He turned to look at Wang Zhaolin and asked worriedly, "Do you think Li Dingguo can come back after this trip?" Ruan Shiwu shook his head gently and said in a deep voice, "The food he brought is only enough for two days. If he cannot capture Anlu within two days, he will withdraw due to lack of food." Zhang Xianzhong felt relieved when he heard this, but then he became worried again, "Are we going too far?" Ruan Shiwu smiled and comforted him, "My lord, you worry too much. A loyal person will not change his mind even when facing a life-and-death test; and those who harbor rebellious intentions will sooner or later show their true colors." Zhang Xianzhong pondered for a moment and finally made up his mind, "Then let's wait and see. If he doesn't rebel, we will return the military power to him; if he rebels, it won't be too late to deal with him."

Ruan Shiwu then went to Sun Kewang's camp. When Sun Kewang saw him coming, he asked curiously, "Military Advisor, how come you have time to come to my place today?" Ruan Shiwu replied with a smile, "No one comes to visit you for no reason. I'm here for something." After the two exchanged a few pleasantries, Ruan Shiwu suddenly changed the subject, "I heard that the lord has said that if Li Dingguo can capture Anlu, his military power will be restored." Sun Kewang's face suddenly changed when he heard this, and he almost jumped up from his chair. He hurriedly asked, "Military Advisor, are you serious?" Ruan Shiwu replied seriously, "How dare I lie to you? If you don't believe me, you can go to the lord to verify it."

Hearing this, Sun Kewang's face became even gloomier. He sat down in a chair, feeling extremely anxious. He had just taken over Li Dingguo's 15,000 elite soldiers. If the military power was taken back again, how would he deal with it? Seeing this, Ruan Shiwu smiled and said, "Don't worry, General. We have our own way to deal with it." Sun Kewang said dejectedly, "What can I do? Who dares to disobey the order of my adoptive father?" Ruan Shiwu pretended to be mysterious and said, "Who said there is no way?" When Sun Kewang heard this, his eyes immediately lit up: "Military Advisor, do you have any good ideas?" Ruan Shiwu smiled, but did not speak, just said, "I was beaten yesterday and almost forgot about this matter."

Sun Kewang understood what he meant immediately. He quickly went into the tent and took out a long sandalwood box, put it on the table and said, "This is the treasure we got from the Chu Palace when Lin Xiaofeng attacked Wuchang sixteen years ago. Military Advisor, please take a look." Ruan Shiwu pretended to decline, then opened the box and saw a scroll inside. It was a painting of the scene of Emperor Ming receiving the seal. The painting was exquisite and lifelike. It turned out to be the original painting of the painting saint Wu Daozi, "Emperor Ming Receiving the Seal"! Ruan Shiwu was shocked when he saw it. Sun Kewang pretended to be indifferent: "This painting is useless to me. If you like it, take it." Ruan Shiwu was not polite. He rolled up the scroll and carefully put it in the box, then left with it. Before leaving, he also told Sun Kewang: "The stone city of Anlu is extremely solid. It is difficult to conquer without internal support. If this matter is leaked, even if you have 50,000 troops, it will be in vain." After saying that, he left in a hurry.

Sun Kewang pondered for a while, then called a personal soldier in and conspired with him. After receiving the order, the personal soldier changed his clothes, rode on his horse and galloped out of the camp. Sun Kewang looked at the personal soldier's back as he went away, praying in his heart that everything would go as he wished.

Early the next morning, the city of Anlu was bustling with people carrying agricultural products and waiting to enter the city to trade. Gao Wengui and more than a thousand soldiers of the Dashi Army were also among them, planning to find an opportunity to enter the city. However, as soon as they walked to the suspension bridge, they heard a rumbling sound, and the suspension bridge rose up. Then, hundreds of fully armed Ming soldiers rushed out of the city gate and blocked the suspension bridge. The leading officer held a bow and shouted loudly: "I heard that there are bandits among you who want to make trouble. Anyone who wants to enter the city must be inspected, and those who disobey will be executed on the spot!" Although the people were not happy, they could only line up and wait for inspection. The Ming army checked very carefully, and even clothes, luggage, and shoulder poles were not spared.

Gao Wengui touched the sword hidden in the basket, sighed and said to the soldiers beside him: "It seems that we can't get in today, let's retreat!" Then he was about to lead his men to retreat. The general of the Ming army was anxious and shouted: "Stop! If you don't stop, I will shoot!" Gao Wengui pretended not to hear and ran away. The general saw this and gritted his teeth in anger: "Shoot!" Arrows flew like raindrops, but Gao Wengui and his men ran fast and had escaped the range. As they ran, they looked back at the sturdy city walls and tight defenses, secretly thinking about the next plan in their hearts. The people and the Ming army in the city looked at their receding backs, talking about it, wondering when this storm would subside.

Anlu Fengyun: Arrows Breaking Through the Air

With a whoosh, the arrow shot towards the fleeing Dashi Army soldiers like a meteor streaking through the night sky. The arrow whistled with the wind, like the scythe of the god of death, ruthlessly harvesting lives.

"Ah!" The screams echoed in the open field, making people tremble with fear. Gao Wengui was so frightened that he didn't dare to look back. His legs were like lead and he ran away desperately, just wanting to escape from this terrible scene. His heart beat like a drum, and every beat seemed to tear his chest apart. He didn't dare to imagine what would happen if the arrow hit him. He could only run desperately. The faster he ran, the farther away from death.

After running for several miles, Gao Wengui dared to stop and take a breath. He looked back and found that the Ming army did not catch up with him, but returned to the camp with the injured soldiers. He felt relieved, but then he was overwhelmed by a heavy sense of loss. He knew that he had suffered heavy losses this time. Not only did he fail to attack the city, but he also lost many brothers. He returned to his camp dejectedly, feeling frustrated.

After hearing the news, Li Dingguo personally went out of the camp to meet Gao Wengui. He felt sorry for Gao Wengui's miserable appearance. He comforted Gao Wengui and said, "It's okay. We will find another way if we fail this time." But Gao Wengui was filled with grief and anger, and said with a sad face, "General, stop struggling and find a way for the brothers to survive!" Li Dingguo felt mixed emotions after hearing this. He remained silent, just staring into the distance quietly, as if looking for an answer.

The next morning, Li Dingguo led 4,000 cavalrymen to the city of Anlu. They were fully equipped and ready to attack, with great momentum, as if they were going to capture the fortified city in one fell swoop. However, when they arrived at the city, they found something that surprised them.

The captured Dashi Army soldiers gathered outside the city, surrounded by sacks and cloth bags. They looked at each other, not knowing what had happened. Li Dingguo was very surprised and quickly sent soldiers to ask the reason.

After a while, the soldiers came back and reported: "Those were soldiers from the Tianwei Camp of the Dashi Army. After the Ming army knew that they were the general's subordinates, they apologized and said that they had arrested the wrong people. They also gave them food and medicine for healing." Li Dingguo was stunned when he heard this. He was confused. Why did the Ming army do this? Was there some conspiracy?
The soldier hesitated for a moment and continued, "The Ming army said that the general is actually on their side." Li Dingguo was shocked when he heard this. He was panicked. This was clearly a counter-espionage plot by the enemy! If Zhang Xianzhong knew about this, he would definitely be labeled a spy and would have no way to defend himself.

He tried to remain calm and continued to ask, "What are in those sacks and bags?" The soldier replied, "Food." Li Dingguo asked again, "Was it sent by the Ming army?" The soldier nodded, "Yes, they said that the food was transported from Nanzhili and was specially prepared by the court for the general."

Gao Wengui was so frightened when he heard this that he stepped back repeatedly. He couldn't believe his ears. Could it be that his superior, General Anxi, was really a spy of the Ming court? This idea was too terrible! But on second thought, if Li Dingguo was really a Ming man, wouldn't he and his brothers all become government troops? Thinking of this, he had a glimmer of hope again.

He asked Li Dingguo expectantly, "General, have you already had a way out?" Upon hearing this, Li Dingguo was furious and shouted, "Bullshit! How could I be the kind of person who has two minds!" His voice was like thunder, full of anger and determination. Gao Wengui knew that he had said something wrong, and hurriedly explained, "That's not what I meant. I meant that if the general is really a Ming person, then wouldn't we all have a way out?"

Li Dingguo knew that Gao Wengui didn't believe him, and he also knew that Zhang Xianzhong would not believe him either. He was now in a dilemma. Going back would definitely lead to his death, and it would also implicate his close associates. He looked at the sky in the distance, feeling lost. He knew that he could no longer return to the Dashi Army. So he made up his mind to leave the Dashi Army and bid farewell to Zhang Xianzhong. Although the future was uncertain, he could only take it one step at a time.

He decisively ordered: "Pass the order, take these grains and go south to Huguang!" The soldiers of Tianwei Camp thought they would die under the city today, but unexpectedly, not only did they not die, but they got grain supplies. Everyone was overjoyed and cheered. Soon, the grain was loaded on the horses, and 5,000 cavalrymen marched towards the south.

They went south along the Fu River, and the road ahead was endless. But they did not lose their way, but moved forward along the river, looking for new opportunities and ways out. In the past, they fought for Daxi, but now they have lost their direction after leaving Daxi. But they did not give up, but continued to move forward firmly. They knew that as long as they had faith in their hearts, there would be a way under their feet.

It was the autumn harvest season, and the golden rice waves were as boundless as the ocean. Farmers worked in the fields, enjoying the joy of the harvest. They were sweating profusely, but their faces were full of smiles. Li Dingguo ordered the soldiers to help the people harvest the rice. This move surprised and grateful the people. They did not expect that these soldiers who were once regarded as bandits would take the initiative to help them harvest the rice. They expressed their gratitude to Li Dingguo and praised his benevolent act.

The Ming army on the top of Yunmeng City also started to discuss this scene. They were surprised and said: "It's really strange! The bandits actually helped the people harvest rice!" Someone even joked: "Is it because your relative's rice was stolen by the bandits and you are embarrassed to say it?" But more people were moved by this scene and praised Li Dingguo's benevolent act. They felt that Li Dingguo was a man of affection and righteousness. Even though he was a bandit, he still maintained his love and respect for the people.

Li Dingguo led 5,000 cavalrymen to continue moving forward. Their future was full of unknowns and challenges, but they were full of confidence and courage. Because they knew that as long as they had faith in their hearts, there would be a way under their feet. As long as they kept moving forward, they would be able to find their own piece of sky. They believed that no matter what difficulties and challenges they would encounter in the future, they would be able to face and overcome them bravely. Because they were an army with firm beliefs and strong fighting power, they were fearless!

Outside the city, the setting sun was like blood, sprinkled on the empty field, and the figure of a lone rider was stretched out, looking particularly lonely. The Ming army soldiers guarding the city, wearing mottled armor, looked at the uninvited guest with vigilance and shouted loudly: "Who are you, the one outside the city?"

"I am Zhang Zhiyu." The man downstairs in the city answered, his voice clear and powerful, revealing an unquestionable firmness.

The guards frowned and looked at the middle-aged man in front of them. He was dressed in dark clothes, with a sword on his waist, a firm face and a gleam of wisdom in his eyes. The guards kindly advised: "Recently, the bandits are rampant, and the whole city is under martial law. You can't enter the city, leave quickly!"

Zhang Zhiyu looked up at the city wall, which was towering into the sky and seemed indestructible. He asked in a deep voice, "Do you know where those bandits are now?"

"I know. It's just five miles north of the city." The defender replied with a hint of uneasiness in his tone.

"Okay, thank you very much." Zhang Zhiyu said, turned his horse's head and headed north. His figure gradually went away in the afterglow of the setting sun, leaving behind a series of firm horse hoof sounds.

On the way, Zhang Zhiyu met many panicked people. They were carrying things on their shoulders and in their hands, and they were in a hurry. They looked back from time to time, fearing that they would be caught up by the bandits. Zhang Zhiyu sighed in his heart. He knew that in the war, the people suffered the most. He tightened his horse's belly and sped up, determined to find the bandits as soon as possible and seek peace for the people.

Not long after, Zhang Zhiyu was discovered by Li Dingguo's spies. He was taken to an open space beside a pond, where Li Dingguo, wearing a short shirt, was cooking porridge. The porridge was bubbling and fragrant, forming a sharp contrast with the desolate scene around him.

Li Dingguo looked up at Zhang Zhiyu, a hint of doubt flashing in his eyes: "Who are you? What do you want from me?"

"I am Zhang Zhiyu from the East Factory, and I have come here to inquire on the orders of the emperor." Zhang Zhiyu answered neither humbly nor arrogantly, his eyes sharp as he stared directly at Li Dingguo.

Li Dingguo frowned, and said with disdain: "By order? I am not his subject, why should I answer his questions?"

Zhang Zhiyu smiled, and his smile was full of deep meaning: "Li Dingguo, you joined the army at the age of nine, and fought in the south and the north for fifteen years. Have you ever thought about what you are fighting for?"

Li Dingguo stirred the porridge in the pot with a spoon and remained silent. His face was firm, but his eyes revealed a hint of confusion.

"If you don't know, then don't tell me." Zhang Zhiyu deliberately provoked him. There was a hint of provocation in his tone, as if he was testing Li Dingguo's bottom line.

Li Dingguo put down the spoon in his hand and answered seriously: "I fight for the people of the world." His voice was firm and powerful, revealing an unquestionable persistence.

"Okay." Zhang Zhiyu nodded, with a hint of appreciation in his eyes. "Then let me ask you again, is the Ming Dynasty about to perish?"

"Yes, the three hundred years of foundation is now in jeopardy." Li Dingguo expressed his opinion without any reservation, with a hint of helplessness and regret in his tone.

"Last question, do you think you are selfish?" Zhang Zhiyu's question was sharp and direct, as if it was going to pierce Li Dingguo's heart.

"What?" Li Dingguo was stunned. He obviously didn't expect Zhang Zhiyu to ask such a question. "Say it again!"

"Do you think you are selfish?" Zhang Zhiyu repeated, with a firmness in his tone that could not be avoided.

Li Dingguo laughed, with a hint of anger and resentment in his voice: "My soldiers and I have been through thick and thin together, so how can I be selfish?"

"Congratulations..." Zhang Zhiyu took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, "But your answers are all wrong." There was a trace of regret and helplessness in his tone, as if he was feeling sad for a lost soul. When Li Dingguo heard this, he was furious. He threw down the spoon and stood up, his figure as majestic as a mountain: "If you can convince me, I will listen to you; if not, I will use you to cook porridge!" His voice was like thunder, revealing an unquestionable domineering aura.

"Okay." Zhang Zhiyu responded with a smile, his smile showing a hint of calmness and confidence, "Tell me the correct answer to the first question first. You are fighting for fairness."

"Fair?" Li Dingguo frowned, a hint of doubt and confusion flashed in his eyes.

"Yes, it's fair." Zhang Zhiyu reiterated, with a hint of firmness and persistence in his tone, "You said you were fighting for the people, but you weren't. Because many people died because of you! You can't hurt them under the banner of doing good for them!"

Zhang Zhiyu's words stunned Li Dingguo, and an indescribable shock surged in his heart. He began to re-examine his heart and behavior, as if he had seen a whole new world.

"It is unfair that the gentry conceal their land to evade taxes! It is also unfair that the merchants exploit the people and bribe the officials! It is even more unfair that the corrupt officials protect these evil merchants and treat human life as worthless! And Your Majesty has also appointed corrupt and incompetent people, which is not fair to the ministers either." Zhang Zhiyu's words were like a string of cannonballs, and every word hit Li Dingguo's heart.

"So, you are actually fighting for fairness." Zhang Zhiyu concluded, with an unquestionable firmness in his tone.

Li Dingguo fell into deep thought. Although Zhang Zhiyu's words made sense, he was not completely convinced. His heart was full of contradictions and struggles, as if two voices were constantly intertwining and colliding.

"Let's talk about the answer to the second question," Zhang Zhiyu continued. His voice was like a spring breeze, blowing away the fog in Li Dingguo's heart. "The Ming Dynasty has not perished. Your Majesty has found a life-saving medicine."

"What kind of strong medicine?" Li Dingguo asked, with a hint of curiosity and anticipation in his eyes.

"Exempt the entire country from taxes for two years." Zhang Zhiyu replied, with an unquestionable firmness in his tone.

Li Dingguo gritted his teeth, and an indescribable shock surged in his heart. He began to re-examine the future of the Ming Dynasty and his own way out, as if he saw a brand new hope.

"What's the answer to the last question?" Li Dingguo asked, with a hint of anxiety and uneasiness in his tone.

"I say you are selfish because you don't consider your subordinates." Zhang Zhiyu spoke bluntly. His eyes were as sharp as a knife, looking straight into Li Dingguo's heart.

"What do you mean?" Li Dingguo asked puzzledly, his heart full of doubts and puzzlement.

"Life is like plants, which will wither in autumn. You can't be bandits all your life. You will eventually be destroyed by the Ming Dynasty. Do you want to leave your name in the biography of bandits? Or do you want to become a famous general who will go down in history? It all depends on your thoughts." Zhang Zhiyu explained, with an unquestionable firmness and persistence in his tone.

After hearing this, Li Dingguo was stunned for a moment, then shook his head: "Are you here to persuade us to surrender?" A fierce light flashed in his eyes, as if he wanted to devour Zhang Zhiyu.

Zhang Zhiyu shook his head: "It's not about persuading surrender, it's about discussing cooperation. His Majesty is willing to provide money and manpower, and you just need to do the work. His Majesty said that you don't need to be loyal to the Ming Dynasty, but at least you must be loyal to your own heart." There was a hint of sincerity and expectation in his tone, as if he was guiding a lost soul.

After hearing this, Li Dingguo was shocked beyond words. He began to re-examine his heart and behavior, as if he had seen a new way out. However, he was still a little hesitant and uneasy: "Your Majesty's words sound good, but if you really don't need to be loyal to the Ming Dynasty, then how did Liu Zeqing and Murong Jiongran die?"

"I won't kill you today, so leave now." Li Dingguo issued an order to expel the guest, and his tone was firm and unquestionable. However, his heart was full of contradictions and struggles, as if two voices were constantly intertwining and colliding.

However, Zhang Zhiyu did not leave. Instead, he sat down and filled a bowl of porridge and started drinking: "Liu, Murong and others have committed many evil deeds in the name of the government army. Isn't it a just act for Your Majesty to get rid of them?" There was an unquestionable firmness and persistence in his tone, as if he was fighting for a just cause.

Li Dingguo watched Zhang Zhiyu drink the bowl of porridge, and an indescribable complex emotion surged in his heart. He began to re-examine his beliefs and his way out, as if he saw a brand new hope. However, he was still a little hesitant and uneasy. After all, as a person born in the rebel army, he was ashamed to betray his beliefs.

Just as he was about to reject Zhang Zhiyu again, Zhang Zhiyu spoke first: "If you accept the amnesty, His Majesty will not let you attack Zhang Xianzhong and Li Zicheng." There was a hint of sincerity and expectation in his tone, as if he was working for a common future.

Li Dingguo sneered, and a trace of mockery and disbelief flashed in his eyes: "Let me fight the Jiannu? Killing with a borrowed knife? Your Majesty is really insidious." However, his heart began to waver. After all, he didn't want to be a bandit all his life. He began to re-examine his heart and behavior, as if he saw a new way out and hope.

"You are wrong. We are actually going to fight the Mongols!" Zhang Zhiyu corrected seriously. His eyes revealed an unquestionable firmness, as if every word carried a heavy weight.

"The Mongolians south of the desert have long surrendered to the Qing Dynasty. They have assisted the emperor in atrocities and invaded the Central Plains many times, and the emperor hates this to the core. The elite cavalry under your command can just gallop across the vast grassland, show their skills, and enhance our country's prestige." There was an inspiring power in Zhang Zhiyu's words, as if he had already seen the scene of the cavalry charging and breaking through the grassland.

"I have said everything I should say. General Li, you have to think about it carefully. However, I have to remind you that the cities within a hundred miles are heavily guarded and are as solid as a rock. If you want to capture cities and plunder land, supply is a big problem. Without sufficient food and fodder, how can the army fight for a long time?" There was some worry in Zhang Zhiyu's words. He knew very well the importance of supply issues in war.

"The only way is to plunder the people's food to continue your so-called ambition to fight for the people. But this is by no means a long-term solution. After all, the people's hearts are the most solid backing in the war." There was a hint of helplessness in Zhang Zhiyu's words. He understood that in the face of the cruelty of reality, sometimes one had to make some choices that went against the original intention.

After that, Zhang Zhiyu said no more and sat down to continue drinking his porridge. The porridge was as thin as water, but it was his only comfort at the moment. He looked into the distance, feeling mixed emotions.

After eating three bowls of porridge, Li Dingguo finally spoke: "If we join forces with the court, how much military pay can we get every month?" There was a hint of expectation and hesitation in his voice.

Zhang Zhiyu was secretly happy, because he knew that Li Dingguo had wavered. He said slowly, "Since we are going to conquer Mongolia, we should follow the rules of the border army. The infantry will get 1 tael and 6 qian of silver per month, and the cavalry will get 1 tael and 8 qian of silver per month. The war horses will be given 15 jin of fodder and 3 liters of beans every day. Converted into silver, the cavalry will get 2 taels and 8 qian per month."

"In a year, the infantry will earn less than 20 taels, and the cavalry will earn less than 34 taels. However, if you make great contributions, your military pay can be increased, and you can enjoy the same generous treatment as the Guanning Army." There was a temptation in Zhang Zhiyu's words, as if the military pay was a piece of sweet cake, waiting for Li Dingguo to taste.

"What about the generals?" Li Dingguo asked, with a hint of desire in his eyes. After all, as a general, his treatment was also what he cared about.

"You are granted the position of a second-rank general, and you can decide the official positions of your subordinates yourself. The military pay of generals also increases step by step. When you reach a high position, matchmakers will naturally come knocking on your doorstep and offer you generous betrothal gifts." There was a hint of sarcasm in Zhang Zhiyu's words, as if he had already seen Li Dingguo wearing an official uniform, looking majestic.

Hearing this, Li Dingguo was somewhat disappointed. When he was in Daxi, he was the General of Anxi, and his status was higher than that of a general. Now he was only given the position of a general, so he naturally felt bad. He looked at the sky, and an inexplicable emotion surged in his heart.

Zhang Zhiyu saw what he was thinking, stood up and said, "General Li, you haven't made any achievements yet, and the emperor can't promote you all at once. If you act rashly, I'm afraid it will cause dissatisfaction among other generals, which will not be good for you."

"I hope the general will understand." There was a hint of sincerity in Zhang Zhiyu's words, as if he was really thinking about Li Dingguo.

In fact, Lin Xiaofeng only gave Li Dingguo the position of general, and nothing else. Li Dingguo was born a bandit, and if he was rewarded generously as soon as he surrendered, it would be too unfair to those soldiers who fought bloody battles. Zhang Zhiyu knew this very well.

Li Dingguo was silent for a long time, as if a huge rock was pressing down on his heart, making it hard for him to breathe. He looked at the mountains in the distance, and an inexplicable impulse surged in his heart. He finally spoke: "I can't make the decision on this matter alone, I have to discuss it with my brothers."

"General, please do as you wish." Zhang Zhiyu left the open space and found a straw pile to lie down and rest. He looked at the sky, and an inexplicable feeling welled up in his heart. He knew that this negotiation was not easy, but he had tried his best.

Li Dingguo didn't actually want to surrender, but reality forced him to consider it. The food was almost gone, and he didn't know where the reinforcements were. He would either starve to death or rob the people of their food. But the people and the gentry had food, and the gentry were hiding in the city and would not come out. The five thousand cavalry were not good at attacking the city, and the losses would be huge if they attacked hard. Over time, the elite of the Tianwei Camp might be consumed here. Thinking of this, Li Dingguo felt an inexplicable sadness in his heart.

He stood up and called his generals to discuss the matter. Everyone had heard the news a long time ago, especially Gao Wengui, who had already begun to imagine the glory of being conferred a title. His face was filled with a glow of anticipation and excitement, as if he had already seen himself wearing gorgeous official uniforms and accepting the emperor's canonization.

"Brothers, this Zhang Zhiyu is a running dog of the East Factory," Li Dingguo pointed at Zhang Zhiyu and said, "He came to talk to us about joining forces with Lin Xiaofeng." There was a hint of disdain and anger in his voice, as if he was full of hostility towards both the East Factory and Lin Xiaofeng.

Although they said they were joining forces, everyone knew in their hearts that this was actually surrender. It was just that no one said it out loud. Everyone felt as if there was a huge rock pressing down on their hearts, making it difficult for them to breathe.

Li Dingguo repeated the conditions Zhang Zhiyu had offered, and Gao Wengui's face darkened when he heard them. He had thought too highly of himself before, and now the psychological gap was too big, as if he had fallen from the clouds to the bottom of the valley. His face showed an expression of disappointment and frustration, as if he had seen the collapse of his dream.

"After leaving Dashi, Tianwei Camp no longer belongs to me alone. I gathered everyone here to discuss this matter together." Li Dingguo's words were filled with helplessness and heaviness, as if he had already seen the difficulties and hardships in the future.

The generals discussed it, some were willing to join forces, after all, the ultimate purpose of rebellion was to seek the status of an official army; some were unwilling, worried that they would be restricted by the court after surrendering, and the fate of Liu Zeqing, Murong Jiongran and others was still vivid in their minds; others took a neutral attitude and took things as they came. Everyone seemed to have a ruler in his heart, weighing the pros and cons.

After discussing for a long time without any result, Li Dingguo sighed helplessly. Things were much more complicated than he expected, as if a huge mystery was placed in front of him that he could not solve.

He walked over to Zhang Zhiyu and found that he had fallen asleep. He was really exhausted from the hard work these days, and he was snoring in the straw. His face showed a tired and peaceful expression, as if he had forgotten the troubles and worries of the world.

"Hey, wake up!" Li Dingguo patted his shoulder. There was a hint of urgency and anxiety in his voice, as if he was eager to get an answer.

"Have you decided?" Zhang Zhiyu asked in the straw pile. There was a hint of laziness and sleepiness in his voice, as if he had not yet fully awakened.

"This matter is too important. I need to think about it carefully. How about I give you an answer in ten days or half a month?" There was a hint of hesitation and procrastination in Li Dingguo's words, as if he had not made a decision yet.

"Okay." Zhang Zhiyu agreed readily. His face showed an expression of tolerance and understanding, as if he had seen through Li Dingguo's thoughts.

"But..." Li Dingguo said a little embarrassedly, "Our food is almost gone. Can you lend us half a month's worth of food first?" There was a hint of begging and embarrassment in his voice, as if he could no longer hide his predicament.

Zhang Zhiyu widened his eyes: "The alliance hasn't even been decided yet, and you want to eat the court's food first? Isn't this porridge cooked with the court's rice?" There was a hint of dissatisfaction and blame in his voice, as if he was very dissatisfied with Li Dingguo's behavior.

Li Dingguo blushed: "Since we are talking about joining forces, we must be sincere. What's wrong with eating some of your food? If the five thousand elite cavalry under my command really join forces with the court, ten times the food will be worth it." There was a sense of righteousness and confidence in his voice, as if he had already seen his future glory and honor.

"What you said makes sense." Zhang Zhiyu nodded. "I can give you the food, but it has to be transported from Xiaogan." There was a sense of helplessness and compromise in his voice, as if he could no longer refuse Li Dingguo's request.

"Thank you very much." Li Dingguo bowed his hands and thanked him. His face showed an expression of gratitude and joy, as if he had seen the dawn of hope.

Zhang Zhiyu sighed, got on his horse and left Tianwei Camp to return to Xiaogan. He looked at the mountains and rivers in the distance, and an inexplicable feeling welled up in his heart. He knew that this negotiation was not easy, but he had tried his best. He hoped to get a satisfactory result that would satisfy both parties.

After arriving in Xiaogan, Zhang Zhiyu first arranged for food, and then took his confidants out of the city to Chengtian Prefecture. He hoped to tell Jian Mingxiao about the situation here as soon as possible so that he could be prepared. After all, Li Dingguo was not an easy person to deal with, and he needed more support and help.

Why was Li Dingguo unwilling to surrender easily? In fact, it was because he was unwilling to do so. He felt that he still had the strength to fight and could continue to compete with the court. The strong only submit to the stronger, and he would not surrender willingly unless he suffered a great loss. This was due to his personality, and also his pride and self-esteem as a general.

So who can make him suffer this great loss? Jian Mingxiao is a good choice. This veteran has both reputation and strength. If he takes action, it will definitely achieve twice the result with half the effort. Zhang Zhiyu already has a plan in mind, and he decided to go to Jian Mingxiao to discuss countermeasures.

On the afternoon of August 19, Zhang Zhiyu and his party arrived at Jiukou Posthouse, 50 miles south of Chengtian Prefecture. After several days of traveling, they were tired of eating baked bread and wanted to eat some hot meals. Their faces showed an expression of fatigue and desire, as if they had forgotten the troubles and worries of the world and just wanted to enjoy a good meal.

Jiukou Posthouse is close to the Han River, with frequent ships and merchants, and it is very prosperous. Before they had time to dismount, people came running over and shouted, "Run! The bandits are coming!" Their faces showed a look of fear and panic, as if they had seen the shadow of death.

"Hide quickly! Zhang Xianzhong has killed people like crazy. It will be too late if we're late!" There was a sense of despair and fear in the people's words, as if they could no longer bear this fear and oppression.

Zhang Zhiyu is shocked (end of this chapter)