The Ming Dynasty began from Sarhu

Chapter 156 Crossing the Yalu River

February 25th, the first year of Taichang.

Chaotianguan (Note 1) Li Tiran crossed the Yalu River and met with Yuan Chonghuan, the Liaodong Inspector General, at the east gate of Kuandian.

Originally in history, Li Tiran, as the last envoy to the imperial court, arrived in the capital of the Ming Dynasty in the 15th year of Chongzhen.

After the fall of the Ming Dynasty, he went through many hardships and finally returned to Korea.

In the fifth year of the Shunzhi reign, when he was sent to China again, the ruler of the capital had become a Tartar with pigtails. Li Tiran's status had also changed from an angel to an envoy to Yan.

The change in the title reflects the hatred and dissatisfaction of Korean scholars towards the Qing Dynasty. Li Tiran wrote in "Yantu Jixing":

"Heaven and earth have shifted places, and China is now tainted with filth. The people of China have all fallen into the realm of beasts."

When passing through ancient battlefields such as Songjin in Liaodong, he saw "the Ming army lying in heaps amidst the wild grass and creeks, their grievances lingering, their cities crumbling and their walls shattered, a scene of desolate emptiness."

After entering the Qing Dynasty, Li Tiran refused to even look at the Jurchens. He refused to eat Qing food. He simply built fires along the way and cooked simple meals using local ingredients.

Li Tiran said that after seeing the Tartar's face, he felt a nauseous feeling that made him want to vomit... (Note 2)

In this plane, this stubborn angel no longer needs to bring his own food to make fire and cook.

Yuan Chonghuan, a thin, dark-skinned man, personally welcomed Li Tiran into the city. Seeing that the imperial angel was still wearing Ming Dynasty clothing, Yuan Chonghuan praised him profusely. Li Tiran also had considerable respect for this southern official.

Yuan Chonghuan was not like other censors. When he came to Liaodong, he was still a "thin barbarian", but within half a year he became a "fat barbarian".

Yuan Chonghuan was always thin and was said to not be greedy for money.

"Barbarian" was a term used by northerners to mock southerners. "From thin to fat" actually meant sucking the fat of the people to enrich themselves. Later, this term became popular among the angels. (Note 3)

Yuan Chonghuan welcomed the angel into the city and had him rest at the Bingbei Dao Yamen. After exchanging greetings, the two began to discuss the next military deployment.

"Yuan Ducha, Korea is a poor country, known as a land of gentlemen in ancient times, and there are honest officials like you everywhere."

Li Tiran had some difficulty speaking Ming official language, but Yuan Chonghuan didn't care because he couldn't speak it well either.

Yuan Chonghuan didn't try to be friendly with the Korean envoy and said directly: "So, you are not going to provide food and carriages?"

Li Tiran was stunned upon hearing this. After a long pause, he said, "Lord Lingyang has not yet fully taken control of the government. There is no extra food and fodder. The army is requested to provide its own carriages. Besides, this is also the ancestral rule..."

Yuan Chonghuan smiled and shook his head. He knew that what Li Tiran said was true, because when Emperor Wanli came to aid Korea, the Koreans did the same thing. They neither provided food nor had horse-drawn carriages to transport food.

But this would only make Ping Liaohou's burden even heavier.

Yuan Chonghuan actually did not support this invasion of Korea. The deployment of thousands of troops would cost a huge amount of money and food, and many people in the court were eyeing Ping Liaohou. Exposing their own strength too early would be detrimental.

The most crucial point is that even if they control Korea, this barren land, whether it is stationed troops or immigrants, is not worth the cost. Instead of spending such a huge price, it is better to attack directly from Fushun Pass, fight a decisive battle with the Later Jin army, sweep away the holes and plow the court, and capture Hetuala.

You must know that the land in Liaodong is much more fertile than that in Korea.

However, Ping Liaohou had already given the order, so he couldn't say more.

Yuan Chonghuan patiently explained the doubts and confusions to the Korean envoys, and finally instructed them to launch the coup in Seoul step by step.

"Once Ping Liao Hou has prepared food and fodder, we will set out on the eastern expedition. Please rest assured, envoy, Ping Liao Hou is kind-hearted and will never bully Korea..."

~~~
Shenyang, Liaodong.

In the study of the Liaodong Governor's residence, Wang Huazhen personally led the distinguished guests from Kaiyuan to the study in the inner hall. There was a banquet table in the study and a pot of Jinhua wine on the table.

Wang Huazhen dismissed all outsiders and left only a maid to serve, making the ceremony seem private and solemn.

"Please take a seat, Inspector Kang." Wang Huazhen said politely to Kang Yingqian.

Kang Yingqian, who was wearing a third-rank robe with a peacock patch, quickly declined the offer modestly. He had just arrived from Kaiyuan, and this meal was a welcome treat from Governor Wang.

"Governor Wang, please go first. Don't break the court etiquette!"

Wang Huazhen stood nearby and said, "Inspector Kang served as the emperor's inspector, and now serves under the Marquis of Ping Liao. It's only a matter of time before he rises to a high position. Inspector Kang and I have known each other for many years. In the 26th year of the Wanli reign, we were both Jinshi (imperial examination candidates), but unfortunately, we've been separated by mountains and rivers, and we've lost touch. From now on, we don't need to address each other by our official titles. Since Lord Kang is a few years older, how about I call you Brother Kang?"

Kang Yingqian was very proud, knowing that he had made the right move to join Liu Zhaosun. Now in Liaodong, even the governor had to give him some face.

Although he thought so in his heart, he kept saying that he didn't dare and insisted that Wang Huazhen sit first.

The two of them exchanged pleasantries for a long time. The maidservant beside them yawned, and Wang Huazhen felt a little embarrassed. She finally sat down first. Wang Huazhen got to the point and said with a smile:
"I heard that Marquis Ping Liao recaptured Kuandian, Qinghe, and Fushun, and last month personally led troops to quell the Mongol rebellion and killed some defecting merchants. With this, Liaodong can rest easy. I congratulate Marquis Ping Liao on this great achievement!"

After saying that, Wang Huazhen raised his glass and drank it all in one gulp.

Kang Yingqian drank a cup with him, feeling very proud of himself. He glanced at the concubine out of the corner of his eye. The woman was quite pretty. The Vajra Powder in Kang Jianjun's sleeve swayed slightly.

He put down his wine glass and clapped his hands, and two servants carried up a heavy wooden box.

When the wooden box was opened, there was a layer of white silver ingots, weighing more than a thousand taels. There were also scattered Dongzhu ginseng next to it, estimated to be worth several thousand taels of silver.

The maid's eyes lit up and she moved forward involuntarily.

Wang Huazhen pretended to be surprised: "Brother Kang, what do you mean?"

Kang Yingqian stroked his beard and said with a smile:
"Marquis Ping Liao is well aware of Governor Wang's feelings for Kaiyuan. He often says that his work in Liaodong is thanks to the care of several officials in Shenyang, especially Governor Wang. Ping Liao has not yet been successful, and we still need to work hard. Future Liaodong affairs will still depend on the care of Lord Wang. If Lord Wang needs any help from the Kaiyuan army, just ask, and Marquis Ping Liao will help him."

"These gifts are a token of my gratitude to Marquis Ping Liao. I was asked to bring them to Shenyang. I must ask Governor Wang to accept them!"

Wang Huazhen looked at the gift worth several thousand taels of silver in front of him, knowing that Liu Zhaosun must want him to cooperate with something. He understood and smiled at Kang Yinggan.

"What Ping Liaohou said is true. Liaodong is a dangerous place with unpredictable people. Since we are both officials here, we should take care of each other. If you need any help in the future, please just ask. After all, we are both Jinshi in the 26th year of Wanli..."

The two smiled at each other and clinked their glasses.

Kang Yingqian finished his drink and glanced back at the maid.

"To be honest, the Marquis of Ping Liao asked me to come here because he really needs your help with something."

Wang Huazhen put down his chopsticks and made a concentrated expression.

"The Jiannu invaded Korea and plundered the counties. Gwanghaegun fled to Kuandian and begged for submission. The Marquis of Pingliao could not bear to see the people of a small country suffer so he decided to send troops to aid them."

Wang Huazhen nodded repeatedly. After all, he had led troops in prefectures and counties and had some knowledge of military affairs. This time, the Later Jin Dynasty suffered tens of thousands of casualties and was severely weakened. It was impossible for it to launch another attack in a short period of time, let alone bypass most of Liaodong to attack Korea.

"Marquis Ping Liao's intention is that Governor Wang submit a memorial, truthfully report the incident, and request assistance from the imperial court. They should send troops as soon as possible to wipe out the Jiannu and save the Kingdom of Joseon from its precarious situation."

When Wang Huazhen heard this, he probably knew that Liu Zhaosun's purpose was to take the opportunity to intervene in Korea.

Based on his understanding of the imperial court, it was impossible for them to send troops to aid Korea at this time, and in the end they could only send the Kaiyuan Army to pursue the Jiannu.

"This isn't difficult, General Kang, rest assured. I will draft a memorial to the Emperor today, explaining the situation in Korea and urging the Ministry of War to send troops immediately. Even if we don't have any soldiers, we should at least request some food and money."

"Then I, on behalf of the Marquis of Ping Liao and the King of Joseon, would like to thank Governor Wang. Come, have a drink!"

The two of them had another drink.

Wang Huazhen noticed the smile on Kang Yingqian's face, leaned close to his ear, pointed at the maid Jin'er, and said with a smile:
"Last year, while I was deeply investigating the people's sentiments along the Qinhuai River, I met this skinny Yangzhou horse. He's handsome and well-versed in Kunqu Opera. His bed skills are also... I'll give him to Brother Kang to warm his bed!"

Kang Yingqian was so tempted by what he said that he stared at the maid without blinking, but said with a serious face: "Since my brother has spent so much money, how can I take away someone else's love?"

Wang Huazhen teased:

"Brother Kang, you've been following the Marquis of Ping Liao for so long, have you become like Liu Xiahui? Back then, you and I traveled around Qinhuai, drinking all day and sleeping drunkenly among the flowers. How romantic we were! If Brother Kang doesn't like this girl, then forget it. Let her go!"

Kang Yingqian stood up immediately after hearing this and said anxiously, "Master Wang, wait a minute!"

······
On that day, Governor Wang submitted several memorials to the Ministry of War and the Emperor in accordance with his fellow villager's suggestions.

In the memorial, Wang Huazhen reported that the Xinnu chief Huang Taiji led 30,000 troops south, bypassed Kuandian, crossed the Yalu River, and entered Sinuiju to plunder. The King of Korea requested the court to send troops for support.

At the end of the memorial, Governor Wang did not forget to talk about the great truth that the lips and teeth are cold.

Although it sounds meaningless, it shows his attitude:

It is suggested that the imperial court send troops immediately to rescue this troubled little brother in the east.

What left Wang Huazhen speechless was that before his memorial could be sent out to Liaodong, Ping Liaohou had already led his troops to set off.

Liu Zhaosun's reasons were also very sufficient:

The military situation in North Korea is urgent, and the generals are not bound by the orders of the king when they are away.

There are only two roads leading to the capital from the Kingdom of Korea, and both are dangerous.

The sea route is treacherous and ships often capsize.

The land route was controlled by the Kaiyuan Army, and all the official and small roads from Kuandian to Shenyang were guarded by night patrols.

In other words, the connection between the capital and North Korea has been completely severed.

It was impossible for the imperial court to learn about the actions of the Kaiyuan Army in Korea.

When Gwanghaegun steps down and the new king ascends the throne, the court will have no choice but to accept it as long as it gives all parties a reasonable reason.

After all, this kind of thing is not the first time in the history of tribute between Ming Dynasty and Korea.

~~~~
On the first day of April, Liu Zhaosun took his wife to his father-in-law's house.

Deng Changxiong, Qi Jin, Qiao Yiqi, Song Yingxing and others accompanied him.

Mao Yuanyi, Qin Jianxun, Kang Yingqian, Wang Erhu and others stayed in Kaiyuan.

Of course, Liu Zhaosun brought more than just these people with him when he went to Korea.

There are two thousand headquarters with one thousand combat soldiers, and two thousand new recruits trained by Qi Jin, totaling three thousand elite soldiers.

In addition, there are 600 elite cavalry under the command of Burhanggu.

Such a luxurious combination should have left a deep impression on Jin Yuji's family.

Unfortunately, Joseon Meiji's parents have long passed away, and no one knows where her several mean relatives have died.

Ping Liaohou was looking forward to this trip to Korea.

In summary, he came to North Korea to do only three things:

1. Traveling with Jin Yuji;
2. Traveling with Xu Xiake;
3. Traveling with Lingyangjun

Of course, for a workaholic like Liu Zhaosun, only being with Jin Yuji can truly be considered a journey of enjoyment.

After the Battle of Hunhe, the cavalry battalion was expanded by 500 cavalrymen. Although the wall charge training had not been completed, it was more than enough to deal with ordinary dog fights.

Over 5,000 horses were captured, and with the donations from Man Gui, there were over 2,000 horses that could be used as war horses. It was expected that the cavalry would exceed 3,000 this year, and a new group of cavalry officers would be recruited to strengthen the cavalry.

The army first rushed to Kuandian, and after resting in Kuandian, they immediately crossed the river.

Liu Zhaosun had been to Kuandian three times and was very familiar with the road conditions, so he could be said to be familiar with it.

As we entered Kuandian, the terrain rose and the road became rugged and bumpy.

Ping Liaohou led the horse and walked slowly between the steep cliffs.

A hundred feet below was the Hunjiang River, which was flooded during the spring flood season. From time to time, the corpses of one or two cattle, horses and other livestock floated on the muddy river surface.

"Captain Jin, be careful of your horses' hooves getting stuck. There's a pit in the dirt ahead."

Liu Zhaosun and his wife agreed that they would only greet each other with military etiquette in the army and not be too intimate.

Jin Yuji agreed, shortened the reins, and carefully avoided the sunken pit.

The last time he went to Kuandian, Burhanggu lost a cavalryman here.

The mountain road gradually flattened out and everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

No one was scouting around at night, and three thousand soldiers were resting in the valley. The cavalry untied the reins and fed some hay to the horses.

The Hunjiang River flows eastward, hitting the rocks and snow.

An eagle's cry was heard in the sky. In March, the Hunjiang River had not yet reached the stage of lush grass and singing birds in the south of the Yangtze River.

The sky is high and the land is vast in Liaodong, but it has a unique charm that makes people feel heroic.

Jin Yuji led the horse and walked behind Liu Zhaosun. They climbed the slope, tied the horse to a small tree, and looked east. Guards stood on all sides of the slope to protect them.

The Hunjiang River originates in northern Liaoning, winds its way southward, and finally flows into the Yalu River on the border of the Ming Dynasty.

"Husband."

The closer she got to the Yalu River, the more nervous Jin Yuji became.

"Somehow, I feel a mess inside."

Liu Zhaosun laughed and said, "Do you feel more timid when you are close to home?"

After saying that, he took out his coconut ladle, handed it to Jin Yuji, and asked her to take a sip.

"I'm bringing you back to your parents' home this time to let everyone in Korea know that your husband is the Marquis of Ping Liao, so that no one will bully you anymore."

Notes:

(1) Chocheonguan, a Korean envoy whose main duty was to absorb Ming knowledge and introduce Ming laws and regulations in order to “bring the barbarians into China” (Annals of the Joseon Dynasty).

(2) Li Tiran’s Records of the Mulberry Bush

(3) Quan's "Shitang Gong Yanxinglu"

(End of this chapter)