Water Margin begins as a captain in Yanggu County

Chapter 270 He slashed it down with one stroke to quell the army's morale!

The military orders are being carried out. The army in the west is gathering in Qinzhou, which is Tianshui!

I heard a voice say, "Old General, do you recognize Jiang Boyue of Tianshui? Jiang Wei of the Three Kingdoms was a general from Tianshui, which is now Qinzhou."

The army in the east, which was already gathered in Yanzhou, and even a large part of the cavalry, had to set off ahead of time. A large number of Song cavalry had to appear on the Song-Xia border immediately so that the Tanguts would see and know, and wait for their reaction.

To put it bluntly, the goal was to lure the main force of the Tanguts to the border. Su Wu didn't care about the one or two cities on the border, nor was he in a hurry to conquer them. This war was of great strategic importance and did not concern him with any single city or city.

Zhong Shidao and Zhong Shizhong have arrived from Huanqing. They were specially recruited by Su Wu. Now, the troops will be divided into two groups. Zhong Shidao will lead the troops in Qinzhou in the west, while Su Wu himself will lead the troops in Yanzhou.

Both sides clearly need to cooperate, and more importantly, they need to have a detailed discussion.

When Zhong Shizhong arrived, how could Lu Da not pay him a visit? Needless to say, the two reminisced about the past. In the past, Lu Da was a personal guard commander under Zhong Shizhong. When he was on the battlefield, he served Zhong Shizhong faithfully. When he was not on the battlefield, he would also frequent the residence of the young general Zhong.

Even during a short meeting, Lu Da personally served tea to Lao Zhong and Xiao Zhong.

This was the first time Xiao Zhong and Su Wu had met. Su Wu knew that Xiao Zhong was a man who could fight to the death, so he respected him greatly. Although he was called Xiao Zhong, he was actually sixty-two or sixty-three years old and already had white hair.

Liu Yanqing was also present at the small meeting, which was held at a camp outside Yanzhou City. Surprisingly, the supervising officer Li Yan was not there.

This matter surprised even the old and young Zhong, and Liu Yanqing was even more surprised, but none of the three asked.

After exchanging pleasantries several times, Old Zhong said, "In this battle, just follow Commander Su's orders!"

Su Wu nodded and spoke frankly: "Both of you are elders, having grown up in the Northwest. You know far more about the war in the Northwest than I do. This is how I plan it. Please explain slowly and I hope you will correct me if I am wrong."

Old Zhong cupped his hands in greeting: "What are you saying? I know of Commander Su's ability to lead troops. Commander Su, please just say what you need to say..."

Su Wu then spoke up: "I have examined many terrains and landforms, and studied the Song-Xia war over the years. This time, I want to completely subdue the Dangxiang in one battle. Therefore, my strategic planning will be very different from the past."

Xiao Zhong chimed in, "Commander Su, you don't need to consider our age or seniority, just speak the truth!"

He then felt that Su Wu was being too polite...

Su Wu continued, "Two strategies. First, besiege the border cities without actually attacking, drawing the main force of the Tangut army from the Hetao region and Xingqing Prefecture. Second, establish large, fortified camps on the border, continuously stockpiling grain and supplies, and dragging the war down!"

All three frowned in thought. They were seasoned warriors who had fought here their entire lives. Su Wu had explained it so clearly, and the three of them understood the deeper meaning behind it.

Old Master Zhong said, "The previous defeats stemmed from two main reasons: first, our advance into the Tangut region was hampered by exhaustion and insufficient supplies; second, the enemy was well-rested and engaged our troops in open battle in the desert, Gobi, and flat terrain. Commander Su's strategy was to do his best to avoid and mitigate these disadvantages, which was truly the best approach, but..."

Old Master Zhong paused slightly, his meaning already clear, but Young Master Zhong spoke bluntly: "General Su, my brother's intention is that if we implement this strategy, I fear the Emperor will lack patience, the officials in the court will think we are neglecting the war, and what about the military supervisor? How could he not be anxious? He will probably urge us on..."

Clearly, compared to the two older brothers, the elder Zhong was much more composed, while the younger Zhong was more impatient.

Liu Yanqing added, "Moreover, the expenditure on money, provisions, and horse feed is enormous. Such spending yields no tangible results, which makes it even harder for the generals to trust us. If we were to change commanders on the eve of battle, I fear..."

These statements are all correct. It's like a company where the chairman and shareholders invest in a project, and Su Wu is the project director. People keep pouring money and resources into it, but Su Wu, the project director, can't bring them any profit for a long time. How long can they tolerate you as the project director?

Su Wu waved his hand dismissively: "If we rush in recklessly, we may seem to be winning battles and accumulating merits at first, but in the end, we'll inevitably end up gambling on a decisive open-field battle, just like before. The enemy will be well-rested and exhausted, while we'll be out of supplies and our horses exhausted. Wouldn't we then suffer more defeats than victories? This is a risky strategy, and the outcome is unpredictable. This time, if we want a complete victory, only my strategy can change it. No one can change it. For the sake of the country, for the sake of the people, and for the sake of future generations, no one can change this strategy. Only in this way can we truly achieve a great victory!"

Everyone nodded in agreement, understanding the reasoning behind it. In the past, the method involved gambling on the decisive battle in the open field. They had gambled time and time again, even risking the life of Liu Fa, the old marshal...

It needs to change!
But all three looked at Su Wu with immense worry.

Su Wu simply added, "When a general is in the field, he may disobey the emperor's orders. Although this may seem disobedient, all three of you know that my actions are truly out of loyalty, for the sake of the country and its people!"

The three nodded in agreement... but things were very difficult, as difficult as climbing to the sky!
There were even concerns about a worse scenario: what if they had to change commanders at the last minute, wouldn't all their efforts be in vain? If it were the old Tong Guan who replaced them, that would be alright…

But now the old Grand Chancellor is probably getting older and older and can no longer be relied upon. If Li Yan were to take over, even a fool would know it would be a tragedy!
Rather than doing that, given that the various armies in the Northwest have been making increasingly more preparations recently, it might as well gamble on a decisive battle in the field.

This presents a dilemma for both Lao Zhong and Xiao Zhong, as well as for Liu Yanqing.

They knew that Su Wu was a man of his word and would stick to the best method to hold on, but they were also afraid that Su Wu would not be able to hold on, and if Su Wu did not hold on, the consequences would be unimaginable.

What I was most worried about was that Su Wu could not gain the genuine trust and support of those high-ranking officials in the court; this was a matter of official politics.

He also knew that the Song Dynasty Emperor Zhao, who had been on the throne for over twenty years, was extremely easily influenced. No matter how much the emperor trusted Su Wu, he couldn't resist the buzzing in the ears of the many officials in Dongjing (Kaifeng)...

The three men were all getting old, and they thought things through more deeply and more thoroughly. The crux of the problem was not that it was more conducive to the war, but rather the court!
Such events have occurred countless times throughout history, from the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods to the Tang Dynasty—too many to mention…

Seeing the worry on the faces of the three veteran generals, how could Su Wu not continue, "Rest assured, gentlemen, for the sake of our country and our descendants, I will do anything!"

Upon hearing this, the three of them were taken aback, exchanged glances, and looked at Su Wu, somewhat puzzled...

Su Wu continued, "If we are defeated this time, our Great Song will never again have such high morale to fight the Tanguts. It may seem harmless if the Tanguts are not eliminated, but in fact the situation has already changed drastically. If the Tanguts are not eliminated, the Great Song will be in grave danger in the future!"

Xiao Zhong immediately asked, "What do you mean by that, Commander Su?"

Su Wu's expression was extremely solemn: "The Jurchens have just risen, and their power to destroy a nation is formidable. Their military might is unmatched. Since ancient times... I won't go into the details of ancient times, but all three of you understand this principle. The Jurchens and the Song Dynasty are destined to fight; it is unavoidable, and there is no room for luck. This has been the case throughout history. These Tanguts are merely a country caught in the middle, with little production or wealth. Our Great Song is rich and prosperous, so there's no need to worry too much. If the Tanguts don't perish, they will naturally make peace with the Jurchens in the future. Our Great Song will be fighting on two fronts; how can it not be in grave danger?"

Su Wu wanted to repeat these words again, but the three people in front of him would understand after a little explanation, so there was no need to say more.

The three men immediately frowned deeply, and Old Master Zhong exclaimed in surprise, "It was my oversight that I didn't think things through... It seems that in this battle, the Tanguts must be destroyed first, no matter what. Those compromises are absolutely unacceptable..."

Seeing the expressions on the three men's faces, Su Wu suddenly realized something: Zhong Shidao and Liu Yanqing were actually both willing to accept a compromise...

What compromise could be found? It would be that as long as we win this battle, gain some territory, and inflict casualties on the enemy, a ceasefire would be acceptable.

This... Su Wu never expected this. Before this meeting, he thought that everyone in the Northwest, from top to bottom, was just like him, Su Wu, and was determined to destroy the Tanguts.

Of course, everyone was eager to fight the Tanguts, but it was all driven by a desire for revenge. They wanted to win, to feel satisfied and vent their anger, and secondly, it would be best if they could destroy the country, but they could accept it if they couldn't.

This is probably a common thought among the various armies in the Northwest.

Su Wu thought about it again and realized that perhaps it was no wonder these people were blamed. These people had fought against the Tanguts their whole lives, and even their families for generations. They had experienced both victories and defeats, and they were the only ones who truly understood the Tanguts and knew the difficulty of destroying a country.

Therefore, their conservatism is subconscious; it is not cowardice or lack of ambition, but rather an exceptionally conservative outlook on war.

This contrasted sharply with the emperor and his ministers in Tokyo, where they were extremely radical, believing that the Liao Dynasty's threat had been eliminated and that with the arrival of 300,000 troops, the entire nation would easily crush the Tanguts.

Looking at Zhong Shizhong, it seems that only he is more radical. He also has something to say: "What I think is that it would be best to destroy the country in one battle. After listening to Commander Su's words, I am even more convinced of this idea. This time, we must eliminate future troubles forever. In this way, we can obtain the land of the Tanguts, enter the grasslands, and open our arms. If we really fight the Jurchens in the future, we can also detour into their heartland. They will have to be on guard. Even if the Jurchens really want to move south in the future, we will have to divide our forces to contain them and not concentrate our strength on one side!"

Liu Yanqing nodded repeatedly and said, "This is probably the grand strategy in Marshal Su's mind!"

"Indeed!" Su Wu nodded.

"Then...then..." Old Zhong still frowned, and slowly said with concern, "I'm afraid that Commander Su can't take his time like this..."

Zhong Shizhong even started cursing: "What do those short-sighted fools know? Fight according to Commander Su's method! This is the best strategy!"

Su Wu smiled slightly: "The three of you need not be anxious. Now that I have made this plan, I will do everything I can to make it succeed. If we fail to make this happen, we will be condemned for eternity in history. Future generations will only think that we were incompetent and misled the country and its people! Therefore, whether it is for the sake of the country and the people or for personal gain and reputation, I will use every means possible to ensure that this plan succeeds!"

Zhong Shidao nodded with a worried expression, "Then let's follow Commander Su's plan. Commander Su, just give the order!"

Su Wu then gave the order: "General Zhong should go to Qin Prefecture to lead the troops. Once Qin Feng and Xihe Lanhuang's armies have gathered, head north towards Huizhou, Xi'an Prefecture, and Huaide Army, pressing on the city of Weizhou in Xixia. Don't rush to attack; build fortifications and stockpile food and supplies. I will lead the troops from Fuyan, Huanqing, and Guanzhong to advance on Hongzhou and Longzhou. General Zhong should remain still and only besiege the city. I will also besiege the city, but I will lead the cavalry to launch attacks in all directions, plundering south of the Hetao region. In this way, we will draw the main force of the Dangxiang army south..."

Su Wu paused, only to see the three men nod.

Su Wu continued, “Therefore, the Tanguts have only four options. First, they will remain inactive, waiting for us to capture the city before heading north, their plan being to wait for us to tire ourselves out and win a decisive battle in the field. Second, they will naturally seek out us for a decisive battle, their plan being to defeat our main cavalry force to gain the initiative. Third, they will not seek out us, but instead seek out General Zhong, which means they want to cripple our wings first before engaging in a decisive battle. Fourth, they will allow themselves to divide their forces to attack, both General Zhong and me, thus trying to cover everything!”

The three nodded repeatedly, and Xiao Zhong immediately spoke up: "My brother has told me about Commander Su's ability to lead troops many times, and I have always believed him, but I had never truly witnessed it. After seeing it for myself, I am even more impressed than I have heard. Commander Su is truly a master strategist! He is thoughtful and meticulous in everything he does!"

Zhong Shidao also chimed in, "Let's hear how Commander Su responds!"

Su Wu continued, "The best course of action is this: if the Dangxiang remain inactive and wait until their supplies are nearly complete, then we should head north to seek a decisive battle. This way, logistical concerns will be less of a worry. We can continue to operate on two separate routes. If they attack you, you should proceed cautiously, establishing fortifications and setting up camps to defend yourself. My cavalry is numerous and will come to your aid. Alternatively, we can launch a rapid advance and directly attack the area surrounding Xingqing Prefecture. If they attack me, I will also establish fortifications and set up camps to defend myself. You can then launch a rapid advance, attacking cities and capturing strongholds. The Dangxiang have fewer troops, so you will have to make choices. If we fight on both fronts, then we will achieve a decisive victory!"

“Alright!” Master Zhong nodded.

Su Wu then responded: "If the Dangxiang seeks a decisive battle with me, I will set up camp to meet them, while Commander Zhong leads his troops north to attack cities and capture strongholds. The Dangxiang will have to divide their forces to deal with this, which will inevitably cause some chaos and make them lose their footing. I will then seize the opportunity to launch a preemptive strike and observe the changes in the war. As long as the enemy moves back and forth, that is an opportunity, and there will be a way to win! The same applies to the other side. If they attack you with all their might, I will also advance rapidly... From the border to Xingqing Prefecture, it is about 700 li for you, and only 600 or 700 li for me. The Dangxiang will not have the time to remain calm and composed."

Even if the Song Dynasty had a court, didn't the Western Xia also have a court? Did it also have officials? Did it also have those high-ranking officials who were filled with anxiety?

The three nodded: "Perfect!"

Su Wu continued, "If the Dangxiang had split their forces to meet the enemy right away, as long as we had enough food and supplies, we could have set up camp. But this time is different. You must hold your troops and wait for me to fight the decisive battle first, and then we will fight again!"

Zhong Shidao nodded: "In that case, I will obey your command!"

Zhong Shizhong nodded repeatedly: "Commander Su's use of troops is cautious and appropriate in every aspect!"

Liu Yanqing had his own words: "As long as we truly join the Dangxiang and don't lack food, then we can really advance step by step, taking our time and not rushing things. It's the Dangxiang who are in a hurry! In this way, we can use our strengths to attack their weaknesses and win more often than we lose!"

Obviously, no matter how you plan, you can't plan for everything; you can only plan how the scales of victory or defeat will tip.

Moreover, no matter how much planning is done, in actual war, the foothold is still the same place. Soldiers fight to the death, and the strategy is to create advantages for themselves and avoid the advantages of the enemy.

In reality, the Tangut army, if we really count it, only numbered around 70,000 to 80,000. Among them, the heavy cavalry, the ones that could be called the Iron Falcons, used to number only around 3,000, but now, no matter how you calculate it, you can't count more than 5,000.

There were probably as many as 20,000 to 30,000 light cavalry, and the rest were infantry, numbering around 40,000.

The Tanguts were never a nation where everyone was a soldier. They were a nation where nomadic and agricultural societies coexisted. If we go back eighty or ninety years, the Tanguts were more nomadic and less agricultural. But now, they are more agricultural and less nomadic.

This was an inevitable trend of development. Around Xingqing Prefecture, land was reclaimed, ditches were dug, and agriculture became increasingly widespread. This brought stability to the Tangut regime and prosperity to its productivity. However, with more agriculture, fewer people rode horses...

There is no such thing as having both in this world; it's all about making choices. Of course, it's not always about making choices voluntarily; it's about making choices naturally. How can anyone not want to live a good life?

Moreover, within the Western Xia, the Han people made up a large proportion, and agriculture flourished.

This time, Su Wu gathered troops in Fu, Yan, Huan, Qing, and Guanzhong, encompassing nineteen prefectures, five military prefectures, and ninety counties, totaling 82,000 soldiers, with auxiliary troops counted separately.

This is the eastern route.

Qin Feng led Xihe Lanhuang, with twenty prefectures, five military prefectures, and forty-eight counties, and a total of over 63,000 troops, with auxiliary troops counted separately.

This is the western route.

In addition, there were the cavalry brought by Su Wu, which could be estimated at around 8,000.

Thus, this can be considered a general mobilization of the Northwest. There are even some details, such as the fact that more than 5,000 men under Zhong Shidao's command were counted in Qinzhou.

Therefore, the western route has more than 63,000 men. Adding Zhong Shidao's 5,000, that makes about 68,000. With the addition of auxiliary troops, it can be called 250,000.

The eastern route has 82,000 men. Subtracting Zhong Shidao's 5,000, that's 77,000. Add Su Wu's 8,000 cavalry, and the total is 85,000. Adding auxiliary troops, it can be called 400,000.

Thus, they had 650,000 troops under their control on both the eastern and western fronts.

Zhong Shidao also thought a lot: "The strategy is already like this, it is the best policy, there is no better one. However, there are still two things. First, we still have to consider whether this strategy can be fully implemented by Commander Su. Second, there is the matter of laborers and provisions."

Su Wu nodded: "I won't say much about the first matter; just watch my methods..."

Zhong Shidao was still worried: "Commander Su, just in case... just in case it doesn't work, we should have a plan!"

That's not entirely untrue. The inertia of the Song Dynasty's genes is indeed strong. Master Zhong was still worried that Su Wu wouldn't be able to withstand the pressure from the emperor and the court.

"Let's have a backup plan," Su Wu said. "If the commander really is changed, we must preserve our strength. Even if we have to retreat, we must not advance rashly! Even if we have to feign defeat with Shangguan, we must not send the elite troops of the Northwest Army to their deaths in vain!"

The three of them were facing each other, and the pressure was immense. Shangguan's feigned defeat was something they both understood; it meant pretending to be defeated and retreating...

But if this is done, wouldn't the person in charge of the troops be unable to escape punishment?
Zhong Shidao nodded and said, "I understand, I understand... If it really comes to that, I'll be an old man with a tarnished reputation in my later years, thinking about that old Marshal Liu. Alright... let's do it this way."

Liu Yanqing remained silent, his face full of bitterness. He couldn't bring himself to make such a decision. He was different from the Zhong family, whose members had been guarding the Northwest for generations. He was a soldier, and his wealth and status had been earned through hard work and battle.

While the Zhong family's patriarch was willing to sacrifice his reputation in his later years, Liu Yanqing was somewhat reluctant. The Zhong family had been favored by the emperor for generations, and even if the old man passed away, the young man could rise again.

If Liu Yanqing loses this wealth and status, his son will also be implicated, and it will be extremely difficult for him to rise again.

Su Wu paid no attention to these strange things, and continued, "As for the laborers, there's no rush. The various prefectures and counties in the Northwest are truly united this time, and the two gentlemen of the Zhong family certainly won't slack off on this matter. As for money and provisions... the imperial court will certainly provide the full support of the nation..."

"I'm afraid that's not enough!" Master Zhong was very experienced.

Su Wu smiled slightly: "My lord, there's no need to worry. I have my own methods! In such an important matter, I dare not leave the slightest mistake!"

Zhong Shidao then nodded: "Since Commander Su has said so, I can rest assured and just follow orders!"

Su Wu suddenly stood up, took a few steps forward, turned around, bowed to the three ministers, and then left.

Liu Yanqing reacted quickly, immediately getting up and stepping forward to help him up: "This...this is unnecessary."

Su Wu smiled and said to the three men, "This is for the sake of our country and society, for the loyalty of our king, for the eternal history, and for our personal integrity. I entrust this to the three of you!" Zhong Shizhong also stood up to help him up, "General Su's kindness and righteousness are truly admirable. Today I have witnessed it firsthand. I am honored by your gesture and will gladly risk my life on the battlefield!"

Old Zhong was truly old, and he rose slowly: "Alas... I will shoulder this heavy burden, weighing thousands upon thousands of pounds! The fate of our Great Song Dynasty may rest on this very moment!"

Zhong Shizhong also said, "If it fails, it is because you gentlemen are incompetent! It is not our fault!"

Su Wu could hear the resentment in Zhong Shizhong's words. Zhong Shizhong was also a high-ranking official, so he naturally dared to complain like this, whereas people like Liu Yanqing would never dare to do so.

Su Wu declared, "This time, we can only succeed, we cannot fail! The day to sacrifice our lives for righteousness is today!"

The expressions and gazes of the two men from the Zhong family could not possibly be devoid of countless emotions.

Liu Yanqing nodded frequently, but his mind was filled with many thoughts that he couldn't express...

Of course, we should fight bravely against the Tanguts!
The meeting ended just like that...

Each person has their own business, each person hurrys on their own, each person goes about their own business, but letters should be exchanged without interruption.

It has begun. Everything has begun.

The imperial court was also working with all its might, with endless carts rushing along the official roads. The officials were in high spirits, waiting for the 300,000-strong army to sweep away the Dangxiang and for history to record their deeds for all eternity!
The emperor asked three questions a day: how the troop gathering was progressing, what the strategy was, when the troops were to be mobilized, where Su Wu was, where the initial attack was planned, and what the route of advance was...

How could Su Wu not reply? He would give a half-truth, half-lies...

But Su Wu really did mobilize his troops, his own cavalry and the cavalry of Fuyan, totaling about 10,000 cavalry, to take the same route again to Hongzhou!
The auxiliary troops numbered over ten thousand, and their wagons stretched across the winding mountainside. The laborers of Fuyan also gathered to help transport grain and even began repairing roads...

rich!

More money is on its way, still being transported—money allocated by the three departments of the imperial court, money squeezed out from various parts of the Privy Council, and even money Su Wu transported from Dongping Prefecture…

The 650,000-strong army is already in motion!

Everywhere was bustling with activity. Liu Yanqing, stationed in Yanzhou City, was even busier with official documents coming and going, barely having time to breathe. Troops from all over were gathering, and every day there was a report on where he was going...

Yao Pingzhong arrived the latest and fastest. Liu Yanqing didn't even have time to receive Yao Pingzhong, and only hastily signed a document regarding where Yao Pingzhong's camp was located.

Just as Liu Yanqing was busy, the supervising officer Li Yan arrived. He was full of resentment. He was still waiting for the matter of gathering troops, but he saw that everyone was busy. The Yaozhou troops had arrived, and Su Wu had led his troops north again. No one had come to report to him...

What kind of military supervisor is this?
I also heard that Old Zhong and Young Zhong came by, said something to Su Wu, and then left...

Such a thing was only discovered in hindsight; how could the military supervisor tolerate it?

He walked in and asked Liu Yanqing, "General Liu, what's going on? What's the situation with the troop movements? Why hasn't anyone come to report to me?"

Liu Yanqing immediately stood up and bowed, saying, "There's nothing much military news, just the troops being gathered. Commander Su has already led his troops north..."

"He's going to fight alone?" Li Yan held his head high and puffed out his chest, looking down on everyone. Even Liu Yanqing was always so respectful. The more respectful Liu Yanqing was, the more extraordinary Li Yan's power and authority became.

Liu Yanqing also had a response, saying with a somewhat obsequious smile: "Supervisor, please allow me to report that he is the commander-in-chief and I am a subordinate, so I should not ask too many questions. However, he is not going alone. He has his own cavalry, as well as my cavalry from Fuyan, totaling more than ten thousand, and my son is also going with him."

Li Yan's expression clearly showed displeasure, and he asked again, "Where is he going to fight?"

"Hongzhou, maybe Hongzhou, or maybe Longzhou..." Liu Yanqing replied uncertainly.

"Outrageous! Outrageous!" Li Yan was furious, furious about many things, and he was still waiting for many more occasions...

For example, a large army gathers, thousands of soldiers and horses, banners like clouds, and generals all gathered together...

For example, there are sacrifices to heaven, flags, and ancestors; rallies to pledge allegiance; and so on...

These occasions were also very important to Li Yan; the military supervisor needed to make an appearance, and it was also a chance to see which general was sensible...

These are all about human nature, these are all about the ways of struggle. Even if we are divided into "you" and "me," we still need to use people. Only in this way can we have people to use and only then can we come up with all sorts of ways to fight.

How come... it's as if all these things have been resolved? Su Wu himself has run away, and the vast army hasn't even arrived yet...

As a leader, how can you not see your subordinates more often? Have a heart-to-heart talk? Where is he? He knows he hasn't arrived yet…

Then Liu Yanqing said with a fawning tone, "Supervisor, please calm down. I don't know what has angered you so much. But whatever it is, just tell me what to do!"

Li Yan lowered his arrogant eyelids slightly and glanced at Liu Yanqing from head to toe. This guy... don't be fooled by his fawning smile, something's not right in his mind!

Li Yan was well-versed in the ways of struggle, and his intuition was always accurate. Even Su Wu's ill-intentioned show of force earlier was clearly seen through by him...

"Hmph!" Li Yan snorted and said only one sentence: "Don't you dare underestimate me, the military supervisor!"

"How dare you, how dare you! What are you saying, Military Supervisor?" Liu Yanqing was a cunning and ruthless man; he had acted the same way when he first met Tan Zhen in Jiangnan.

"I see an army has arrived outside the city. Where are they from?" Li Yande needed to have a heart-to-heart talk with someone. Since the Liu family father and son were no longer interested, he would have to find someone else.

Just consider the Grand Eunuch, who wields immense power by the Emperor's side daily. With just a few words, which official in the Song Dynasty wouldn't bow down in obeisance?

If one promises even a small benefit or says a few nice words to the emperor, which official in the land can fully enjoy it?
"Reporting to the military supervisor, the troops arriving outside the city are from Yaozhou!" Liu Yanqing replied.

“Oh… Yaozhou Army, the leader is named… Yang… no, Yao… yes, Yao…” Li Yan came to supervise the army, how could he not do his homework?
“Yao Pingzhong!” Liu Yanqing replied immediately.

“Yes, Yao Pingzhong!” Li Yan nodded. He had already looked at the list of generals in the Northwest and got up to leave: “You go ahead with your work, I’m going to inspect the Yaozhou army!”

"Take care, Inspector, take care!" How could Liu Yanqing really go off to do his work? How could he not bow repeatedly to see him off?
Even if everything is true, the chief eunuch accompanies the emperor every day. He cannot ask the emperor to say anything good, nor can he say anything bad. If he does say anything bad, he will suffer endless punishment.

Even if the emperor blinks, one's political future is over.

It's true, in Liu Yanqing's decades-long life, he had already served as the commander-in-chief of all the armies, yet he had never seen the emperor!
The less you've seen something, the more you'll worry and think about the unknown.

The military supervisor left, taking with him several servants he had brought from Tokyo, and headed out of the city by carriage.

The Yaozhou army was setting up camp, and Yao Pingzhong was also busy inspecting everywhere. He was strict in managing his troops, and even had a fiery temper and foul language. However, his soldiers all knew that their commander was just bad-tempered, but very kind to people.

While things were busy here, a carriage arrived with a servant. It stopped by the roadside, and the servant, with his head held high and looking down at people, asked, "Where is your steward? The military supervisor has arrived, why don't you come and greet him quickly?"

The military supervisor has also become a prince!

In this world, who isn't a husband?

The soldier immediately bowed and then ran off to find his steward, urgently reporting, "Steward, someone on the road says the military supervisor has arrived and wants you to go and greet him quickly!"

Yao Pingzhong was furious. He'd seen the military supervisor before, had he? He'd even criticized that Supervisor Tong before! And now this Supervisor Li…

Alright, let's go greet them...

Yao Pingzhong wasn't truly beyond redemption. As long as he kept his temper in check and could control himself, he wouldn't suddenly go on a rampage and berate Supervisor Tong. Otherwise, no matter how magnanimous Supervisor Tong had been in the past, or how capable Yao Pingzhong was in combat, he wouldn't have tolerated it...

Just ride off to meet them...

After paying his respects, Supervisor Li alighted from his carriage, raised his head, and asked, "Why is the army in such disarray everywhere?"

Yao Pingzhong was taken aback, turned his head to look, and wondered where the mess was? Weren't they all setting up camp in an orderly manner?
Oh, so much busyness everywhere, isn't this also considered chaotic? Shouldn't everyone be lined up and standing straight?

"Reporting to the military supervisor, we are currently setting up camp and will be staying overnight, so everyone is busy!" Yao Pingzhong replied earnestly.

How could the military supervisor remain silent? "Even if things are busy, the army should be well-organized, not like this! You, as a general, must not be strict in managing the army!"

What should Yao Pingzhong say at this moment?

As Li Yan had anticipated, Yao Pingzhong would naturally bow and plead for forgiveness from the military supervisor.

Li Yan then said that they should correct their mistakes in the future. This was also a way of putting them in their place. Yao Pingzhong then served him with utmost care, and then the supervising minister came to give him a few more pointers...

Unexpectedly, Yao Pingzhong spoke up: "Reporting to the military supervisor, the army is already in good order, with everyone performing their duties and there is no disorder or slackness!"

Yao Pingzhong already knew that this so-called Supervisor Li was an outsider, probably never even seen a proper army before, and had only ever seen the emperor's ceremonial guard in the past...

"Hmm?" Li Yan was quite surprised. Why did the trick that had worked every time in the palace suddenly stop working?

However, a servant boy, seizing the opportunity, immediately said, "Chief Steward Yao, how dare you contradict the Military Supervisor?"

Yao Pingzhong glanced at the servant, then at the military supervisor. He was still able to hold back a bit, and simply said, "Rest assured, military supervisor, I have always been strict in managing my troops. My reputation among my colleagues in the Northwest is well-known. Even Commander Su said that my Guanzhong troops are the best in the army, never retreating an inch. Once we are on the battlefield, you will know for sure!"

Li Yan was speechless for a moment, and the servant next to him seized the opportunity to say, "Chief Steward Yao, how dare you! The military supervisor pointed out your mistakes, how dare you keep arguing? Who would dare to use a general like you?"

This is a common tactic; who would dare use it? Most people would be terrified if they heard this, as it would be tantamount to announcing the end of their political career.

Then wouldn't one have to bow down and beg for forgiveness?
The military supervisors of our Great Song Dynasty wield immense power. Even high-ranking officials in the imperial court show them the utmost respect when they meet the chief eunuch, and they can even joke and banter with the emperor!

Yao Pingzhong had endured a lot, but at this moment, he couldn't hold back any longer. He was about to make a move, but not at the supervising officer; he was going to glare at the servant boy. He glared at him and said, "Grandpa goes into battle to kill enemies as easily as slicing melons and chopping vegetables. How dare you talk nonsense to me, you little brat!"

"What do you want?" The servant was really bold. He wasn't afraid at all when a soldier glared at him.

how?

Yao Pingzhong slapped him hard across the face, saying, "I can still speak up for myself in front of Supervisor Tong, but you little brat are still acting like a bully!"

The servant collapsed immediately, motionless, but his cheeks remained flushed.

Li Yan, who was standing to the side, was probably stunned and even a little slow to react. But Yao Pingzhong bowed and said, "Supervisor, it's best not to keep such a petty person around!"

Li Yan looked down at the unconscious servant, then looked up and his expression changed: "You scoundrel, why did you hit someone?"

Yao Pingzhong bowed and said, "The central command tent has been set up. Why don't you come inside and take a seat, Supervisor?"

Li Yan was at a loss for words. What kind of approach was this?
This soldier seems to be a little mentally challenged... How did Su Wu manage to promote and appoint someone like this?
“You…” Li Yan was about to explode. He hadn’t had an outburst in many years because he didn’t need to. In the past, no one would go against his wishes. But for a moment, he didn’t know how to lash out…

Then he said, "Yao Pingzhong, has this always been how you disciplined your troops? Beating and scolding soldiers was a common occurrence for you?"

"Yes, there are. Most of it is cursing, but sometimes it's real hitting!" Yao Pingzhong replied.

“You…I should impeach you before the Emperor for your rude military discipline, which has caused the soldiers to become disloyal and the army to lose morale!” Li Yan found his rhythm, his own rhythm.

Yao Pingzhong was young in the past and had confronted Supervisor Tong. Now he was much older and more tolerant, but he had truly reached his limit. Suddenly, he straightened up, turned around and left, cursing, "Damn it, I'll just go home and farm!"

"Hey...you, you, you! This is outrageous! How could such a scoundrel become a general? Su Wu's crime, Su Wu's crime!" Li Yan was trembling with anger, but he had his own rhythm. Even a scoundrel has something to fear, right? He can't be unafraid of Su Wu, can he? Su Wu has committed a crime, how can you not be afraid?
He really chose the wrong person. If it were anyone else but Yao Pingzhong, they would have fawned over him with smiles.

However, Yao Pingzhong, who had turned away, still had something to say: "I used to serve under Prime Minister Tong, and Commander Su didn't really give me any special treatment or promotion!"

Yao Pingzhong had already left, leaving Li Yan standing in the northwest wind, looking slightly disheveled. He was not only upset, but also puzzled. Why was the northwest no longer the Song Dynasty? Why were the events of the Song Dynasty no longer reliable in the northwest?
Where does this brute get his confidence from?
A servant came up and asked, "Sir, what's going on..."

"Let's go back and write a letter to the Emperor. I'm so angry! These ignorant and fearless people really don't know their own limitations!" Li Yan even suspected that his supervisory authority was fake. He had also heard many stories about Tong Guan, the former supervisory officer. How could Tong Guan have such great power in the army and so many people were willing to die for him?

Could it be that Tong Guan is secretly plotting against me? There's no reason for that…

Su Wu harmed me? Su Wu shouldn't have had such ability. The emperor was supervising the army, so why is no one afraid of him?

Meanwhile, Yao Pingzhong was returning to the central command tent, completely ignoring that damned military supervisor.

Just as he returned to the central army, his subordinate officer came and said, "General, come quickly and take a look at the letter from Commander Su's troops."

Yao Pingzhong immediately took it and began to dismantle it. After taking a look, he felt much better and said, "Great! We'll set off north early tomorrow morning to meet Commander Su in Hongzhou City. That way, we won't have to deal with this damned supervisor!"

The officer was taken aback. Why was he scolding the military supervisor again? This scene seemed familiar; his own steward had also scolded the former military supervisor, Tong…

Why does a military supervisor have to be scolded by his own steward?

If it weren't for the fact that Supervisor Tong disliked him back then, his own steward would have at least risen to the rank of commander-in-chief or deputy commander-in-chief of a military force...

Sigh... this is trouble...

"The chief steward should be careful with his words..." Shouldn't the officer advise against it?
"Watch your words, watch your words! I earn my living by killing enemies, and I don't eat his food. I've endured it all, putting up with his humiliation. If the court doesn't want me, I'll go to Commander Su's side and be a foot soldier! Does he think he can drag me to Tokyo and behead me?"

Yao Pingzhong, your bad luck in this life comes down to your mouth.

The steward could only shake his head helplessly, knowing that once his steward got into a bad mood, there was no way to persuade him...

Then his own steward chimed in, "Damn it! If I saw this eunuch wasn't brave enough on the battlefield, I'd chop him down with one stroke to quell the army's fears!"

"Oh dear... oh dear, Steward, Steward, you absolutely mustn't say such things!" The steward was stunned. How come his steward became more and more outspoken as he got older? He had always thought that the steward had become more restrained as he got older...

(Brothers, we're here...)
(End of this chapter)