[Fantasy] Water Margin Heroes (Complete) - 10-12

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Chapter 73 Tong Guan's Defeat and Retreat

Tong Guan looked helplessly at the Liangshan soldiers cursing outside the camp and said dejectedly, "We can't fight, and we're afraid they'll relentlessly pursue us if we retreat. What should we do?"

Dong Yun said, "The only plan now is to let the rear guard hold off the Liangshan bandits while we retreat back to Jizhou and then make further plans. Otherwise, we risk total annihilation."

Ma Kuo said, "The rear guard's fighting strength is uneven. If we leave them to cover the rear, we're afraid the whole army will be wiped out. The central army is a battle-hardened force. It would be better to have the central army cover the rear guard's retreat first, so that we can preserve more troops to regroup and fight again."

Dong Yun had followed Tong Guan for many years and knew that he wouldn't be willing to lose the central army, so he flattered him, saying, "The rear guard's fighting strength is uneven. How can we protect the safety of the Grand Chancellor?"

Although Tong Guan didn't believe that the Liangshan bandits could capture him, he didn't want to lose his core troops. After thinking for a moment, he said, "Summon the commanders to come and discuss the military situation."

Chenzhou Commander Wu Bingyi and Xuzhou Commander Li Ming came to the central camp and met with Tong Guan.

Tong Guan said, "The Liangshan bandits are challenging us to battle. What do you two think? Should

we fight?" Wu Bingyi replied, "To be honest, Grand Councilor, the morale of our rear guard is low, and we didn't get enough rest last night. We are no longer fit for battle."

Tong Guan said, "Bingyi is right. It is indeed not advisable to fight today. However, our camp is poorly constructed, and if the bandits launch a strong attack, we will suffer heavy casualties. Although the bandits are not strong, our forces have been greatly weakened after last night's battle, and we are afraid we will not be able to defeat them in the short term. Moreover, our camp has little food, and if we want to transport food from Jizhou, the supply convoy will likely have difficulty safely crossing the twenty-mile plain. The only solution now is to withdraw our troops back to Jizhou, gather the scattered troops from the other three camps, and then fight the bandits again. However, if the bandits pursue us relentlessly, we may suffer a rout."

Upon hearing this, Wu Bingyi already guessed why Tong Guan had summoned him. Wu Bingyi and Li Ming exchanged a glance, then Wu Bingyi said helplessly, "We two generals are willing to lead the rear guard to cover the retreat. Please, Grand Councilor, proceed to Jizhou first; we will await orders later.

" Seeing Wu Bingyi's shrewdness, Tong Guan said, "Both generals are truly loyal and brave. When we return to the court, I will certainly recommend you to the Emperor."

Wu Bingyi and Li Ming thanked Tong Guan and went to lead their troops.

Seeing the rear guard of the government troops arrayed, Zhang Yang ordered Zhang Qing to challenge them.

Wu Bingyi, also wanting to buy time, sent a deputy general to meet them.

After only a few exchanges, Zhang Qing turned his horse and fled. The deputy general, having heard Zhang Qing throw stones at several generals, did not pursue. Zhang Qing picked up a stone, and seeing the general not pursuing, he rode back. The general, thinking Zhang Qing was coming to fight again, was struck squarely between the eyebrows by Zhang Qing's spur. The general dared not fight again, and returned to his own lines.

Just as Wu Bingyi was about to send another general, Tong Guan delivered the order for a full-scale charge. Wu Bingyi knew Tong Guan intended for the rear guard to hold off the Liangshan army while the central force could escape. However, he had no choice but to lead his troops into battle, and the battlefield instantly erupted in a deafening roar of fighting.

Zhang Yang, feeling his blood boil, also led his troops into the fray.

The ground trembled violently as the five thousand cavalrymen charged, the sound of hooves instantly drowning out the battle cries.

Although the soldiers in the rear guard had initially perceived the five thousand Liangshan cavalry as similar to infantry—a dense, dark mass—the sight of the cavalry's charge instilled in them a sense of invincibility.

Zhang Yang, having reached within three hundred paces of the government troops, drew his crossbow and began firing short bursts.

Wu Bingyi was the first to be hit, feeling a sharp pain in his chest. He glanced resentfully at his pierced wart-like armor (this type of armor is thin yet tough, with bluish-black plates so shiny they reflect hair. It's made using a cold-forging method; after the plates are cold-forged to one-third of their original thickness, a small unforged piece, about the size of a chopstick tip, remains at the end, vaguely resembling a wart on the skin, hence the name "wart-like armor"), and then fell from his horse. Next came the officers of various ranks, their armor gleaming. Only then did they realize that their armor, which they cherished so dearly, was now utterly useless.

Zhang Yang emptied a quiver before picking up his Overlord Spear and charging into the government army's ranks. Led by Zhang Yang and his personal guards, five thousand cavalrymen pierced the government army's lines like iron spikes.

Seeing Zhang Yang's cavalry charging unstoppably towards his center, Tong Guan prepared to retreat.

Ma Kuo said, "The Liangshan cavalry is about to break through the rear guard. If we retreat as a whole, we'll likely be scattered by the bandits. It would be better to leave the infantry to hold them off while we retreat with the cavalry."

Upon hearing this, Tong Guan disregarded preserving his own strength and ordered General Bi Sheng to lead the central infantry to cover the rear. He didn't even take his command flag, only his cavalry, and fled towards Jizhou.

The sound of thousands of cavalry galloping across the battlefield couldn't be concealed. The rear guard soldiers, already outnumbered by the Liangshan forces, immediately crumbled upon seeing the central army fleeing.

Seeing the Liangshan cavalry break through, Bi Sheng ordered his archers to attack.

The Liangshan cavalry began to suffer heavy casualties, but because their rear guard was positioned in front of the central camp, the Liangshan cavalry charged into the camp after the government troops had only fired a volley of arrows.

Zhang Yang, after charging into the enemy lines, although still killed instantly by a single point or sweep of arrows, clearly felt resistance. Many brave soldiers, after being pierced by spears, clung to the spear shafts and were dragged down. Fortunately, Zhang Yang possessed astonishing strength; even with an extra man on his spear, he wielded it with incredible speed. His personal guards were able to maintain their wedge formation, but the cavalry on the left and right flanks began to stagnate. They could only advance in a multi-pronged attack, led by their respective centurions, in an M-shape.

Seeing the ferocity of Tong Guan's central army, Zhang Yang felt a surge of respect. He took down his bow and arrow, aimed at the commander's banner, and shot. The banner fell with a twang of the bowstring. Zhang Yang then fired several more arrows in quick succession, unhorsing several men under the banner.

Zhang Yang then shouted, "Tong Guan has fled! Those who surrender will not be killed!"

These personal guards knew their commander had fled, but Tong Guan had led his elite troops for years, and after a prolonged struggle, and with the Liangshan infantry joining the battle, they began to surrender one after another.

After fleeing for about ten li, Tong Guan and his men said, "Prime Minister, in last night's battle, most of the soldiers in the three battalions scattered and fled. We haven't seen any defeated soldiers along the way; there's probably an ambush ahead."

Dong Yun said, "Our army is completely depleted. Even if we reach Jizhou, we'll likely be unable to attack Liangshan. It would be better to return to the capital and raise a large army to conquer Liangshan."

Tong Guan had come with great ambition, but looking at the few thousand cavalry remaining behind him, he sighed, "One wrong move, and the whole game is lost. Fortunately, the Emperor has neglected state affairs for a long time; let's return to the capital first."

With that, he led his army back towards Dongjing.

After fleeing for about twenty li, they were again intercepted by Lin Chong's forces. Tong Guan dared not return to rescue them and fled in disarray with only a few hundred cavalry.

Chapter Seventy-Four: Each with Their Own Calculations.

After defeating Tong Guan's central army, Zhang Yang ordered his troops to go to the plains to collect the surrendered remnants to prevent them from plundering the people. With the cooperation of the local people, the area within a twenty-mile radius of the marsh was thoroughly searched within half a day, and any fleeing soldiers who hadn't gone far were captured and brought back to Liangshan.

That evening, everyone gathered their troops and returned to the stronghold to report their achievements. Zhang Yang went to the main camp first, sat down in the Hall of Righteousness, and ordered Pei Xuan to review everyone's merits and rewards.

Zhang Yang captured Duan Pengju alive, shot and killed Bi Sheng and Li Ming, Guan Sheng beheaded Ma Wanli, Wu Song captured Zhou Xin, Yang Zhi beheaded Han Tianlin, and Qin Ming killed Wu Bingyi. The remaining generals under Tong Guan either died in the chaos of battle or escaped under cover of night. The surrendered troops

numbered over 60,000. Pei Xuan had just recorded everyone's achievements when the navy also reported their results: one million strings of cash and fifty thousand shi of grain.

Zhang Yang had someone record this, then said, "Send the navy back with the money and provisions. Military discipline must be strictly enforced to prevent anyone from taking the opportunity to plunder the people."

Wu Yong, having witnessed the mountain stronghold's great victory, also harbored some ambition. Hearing Zhang Yang's intention to recall the navy, he hurriedly said, "The stronghold has received many surrendered troops this time, and it can no longer accommodate them. Why not occupy Jizhou and establish a foothold?"

Gongsun Sheng, upon hearing this, also said, "Indeed, Tian Hu of Hedong and Wang Qing of Huaixi have already ceded territory and declared themselves kings. Coupled with the emperor's incompetence, chaos has already emerged throughout the land. The stronghold leader is a man of great talent and strategy; he should seize this opportunity to rise up."

Lu Zhishen, Wu Song, and other straightforward leaders also echoed this sentiment.

Seeing Zhang Yang remain silent in thought, Wu Yong glanced at Zong Ze.

Zong Ze, however, had his own considerations and said, "The mountain stronghold is indeed powerful enough to establish a separatist regime. However, the foundation of the imperial court has not yet been lost. If the entire nation's strength is mobilized to conquer it, it will likely be difficult to deal with. It could even severely weaken the Han people. If the Jin dynasty destroys Liao and marches south, I fear the Central Plains will have no troops left to resist." Fearing

that Zhang Yang would be swayed by Zong Ze, Wu Yong quickly said, "Master Zong, you are mistaken. With the strength of our mountain stronghold's troops and the martial prowess and strategy of our leader, we will surely be able to pacify the world within a few years. If the Jin people do not have the help of the Song dynasty, they will be defeated in a few years..." " How can we possibly conquer the Liao Kingdom from within?"

Zong Ze said, "Although our stronghold has achieved some minor victories, we cannot underestimate the people of the world. There are hundreds of thousands of elite troops in the Northwest. If they were to rise up and attack, how could our stronghold dare to claim certain victory?"

Wu Yong said, "The art of war lies in strategy, not strength; in the general, not the soldiers. Hence the saying: 'An incompetent commander brings ruin to the entire army.' The current emperor is foolish, and the people he employs are either treacherous or sycophantic. Even with a million soldiers, what use are they?"

Guan Sheng and several others who had been captured with their troops were displeased upon hearing this and began to refute him.

Seeing that the war was escalating, Zhang Yang hurriedly said, "Everyone, there's no need for further discussion. I have a plan. The army will withdraw first, and the surrendered soldiers will be stationed and trained outside the harbor. Regular soldiers will be selected after a month."

Zhang Yang was always decisive, and seeing this, everyone said no more.

The next day, Li Jun led the navy back. Duan Pengju and Zhou Xin were also persuaded to surrender.

The bandits in various places who received Liangshan's invitation, seeing that Liangshan had once again achieved a great victory over the government army, dared not oppose Liangshan. However, they had no other way to make money. If they didn't rob the people, they couldn't maintain their expenses, so they had no choice but to band together and join Liangshan. A few big bandits, although not lacking in money, did not want to use it to support a lot of useless men. Upon receiving Liangshan's invitation, they all disbanded their groups and went into hiding with their money. Some ambitious ones brought troops to join Liangshan. Among those whose names can be found are Bao Xu, the God of Death of Kushu Mountain; Jiao Ting, the Faceless One; Fan Rui, the Mischievous Demon King of Mangdang Mountain; Xiang Chong, the Eight-Armed Nezha; and Li Gun, the Flying Great Sage.

At first, Fan Rui and the other two were afraid that Liangshan would hold a grudge against them for intercepting Dai Zong and others before, but after Dai Zong personally went there, they also brought their troops to join them. Meanwhile,

after Tong Guan fled back to Dongjing, he went straight to Cai Jing's mansion to discuss matters.

At the beginning of Emperor Huizong's reign, Cai Jing was demoted to Hangzhou. It was Tong Guan who spoke on his behalf to the emperor and was thus reinstated. Later, the two colluded internally and externally to control the government. Although Cai Jing has been demoted, he still retains considerable influence, and the emperor's authority has not diminished. That is why Tong Guan came to find him.

After exchanging pleasantries, the two were invited to sit down in the back hall.

Cai Jing said, "Didn't the Grand Tutor go to suppress Liangshan? Why have you returned so quickly?"

Tong Guan sighed upon hearing this and said, "To my shame, we underestimated the enemy and set up camp on the plains. The bandits raided three camps under cover of night, resulting in the loss of 60,000 troops. The next day, the bandits attacked again. Although our army fought valiantly for a long time, the bandits were numerous and desperate, and we were ultimately outnumbered. Only a few hundred of the victorious troops returned, and the armies of the eight prefectures were almost completely wiped out. What should we do now?"

Cai Jing was also surprised to hear of Tong Guan's defeat. After thinking for a moment, he said, "This is a difficult matter. Now that Wang Fu and Gao Qiu's group are in power, they might seize the opportunity to take over military power."

Tong Guan's only hobby was seizing power, and upon hearing this, he hurriedly said, "What should we do? If Wang Fu and his group gain control of military and political power, I'm afraid..." "Then we'll have no chance of advancement."

Although Cai Jing was over seventy years old, he still wanted to return to the position of prime minister. Naturally, he didn't want Wang Fu to become too powerful. After thinking for a while, he said, "This matter still needs to be addressed with Gao Qiu. Gao Qiu is determined to avenge his brothers, so we can recommend him to lead the campaign against Liangshan and shut him up. Moreover, Gao Qiu is just a street ruffian who doesn't know anything about military strategy. He will surely suffer a defeat. With this leverage, Gao Qiu will definitely not dare to mention the matter of the Grand Tutor again. If only Wang Fu is left, he will not be able to accomplish anything."

Upon hearing this, Tong Guan said happily, "Grand Tutor is indeed a shrewd and calculating old man. I admire you."

Cai Jing shook his head and said, "I have already retired. Why do you say such things, Grand Tutor?"

Tong Guan smiled and said, "With the Grand Tutor's strategy, he will return to the public eye sooner or later."

The two flattered each other for a while and then had someone invite Gao Qiu.

Gao Qiu, having accepted Cai Jing's invitation, dared not delay and arrived at Cai's residence. He was surprised to see Tong Guan.

Tong Guan, unusually, first exchanged pleasantries with Gao Qiu and then recounted the campaign against Liangshan.

Gao Qiu, upon hearing this, was indeed overjoyed and sarcastically remarked, "Grand Tutor, last year you decisively defeated the Western Xia, how come you were utterly annihilated by mere Liangshan bandits this time?" Tong Guan

, who already looked down on Gao Qiu's humble origins, was enraged by his rudeness and was about to retort, but seeing Cai Jing's signal, he quickly changed his tune, saying, "I was merely careless for a moment, which allowed the bandits to succeed. If you grant me another 100,000 troops, I will surely be able to wipe them out."

Cai Jing also said, "The bandits reside in the marshes; they cannot be defeated without boats. " "The Grand Tutor only used cavalry and infantry to suppress the rebellion, which led to his defeat and a fall into the enemy's trap. Next time, the Grand Tutor must deploy the navy to ensure success."

Gao Qiu sneered, "Grand Tutor, you have lost many soldiers and wasted a lot of the country's money and grain, yet you have gained nothing. I'm afraid the Emperor will not let you off easily."

Tong Guan said, "It would be best if the Grand Commandant could cover this up for us."

Gao Qiu had previously wanted to lead troops into battle to falsely report the results and gain promotions, but Wang Fu had outmaneuvered him, thus "profiting" from Tong Guan. Now that Gao Qiu had a favor to ask, he said, "That's easy, but I want to avenge my brother myself. I hope the Grand Tutor will grant my request."

Seeing Gao Qiu take the bait, Tong Guan was secretly pleased, but still followed his plan, saying, "That's impossible."

Gao Qiu was about to turn hostile when Cai Jing said, "The Grand Commandant has a deep-seated hatred for Liangshan for killing his brother.

A gentleman should help others achieve their goals. Why doesn't the Grand Tutor step back?" Tong Guan pondered for a moment, then said, "Alright."

After the three reached an agreement, they invited Wang Fu.

Seeing that the three had reached a consensus, Wang Fu had no choice but to compromise.

The next day, the treacherous officials reported to the Emperor that Tong Guan's army had temporarily retreated due to acclimatization problems. The Emperor reprimanded Tong Guan and then sent Gao Qiu as commander to attack Liangshan again.

Chapter Seventy-Five: The flamboyant fan

. The sun blazed overhead, and even the floating clouds seemed to fear its scorching heat, hiding far away. The blazing sun relentlessly poured its heat onto the ground.

The trees drooped listlessly, and the thugs who used to roam the streets no longer had the energy to oppress the people, but instead sat at tea stalls, gulping down the tea the stall owner "offered" to them.

Yan Qing rummaged through drawers and cabinets for a long time before finally finding a fan. Yan Qing opened the fan and saw four lines of poetry written on it in a flowing, elegant style.

Seeing the signature at the end, he couldn't help but frown and think: Is this the recently famous Zhang Yang of Liangshan, or just someone with the same name? If it is the same person, he can only treasure this fan, otherwise it might bring disaster to its owner. But he looks very refined, while Zhang Yang of Liangshan has repeatedly captured fierce generals, so it seems they are not the same person.

Just as he was thinking, he heard a "creak," and the door opened, and a woman walked in. She was beautiful, and her exposed skin was as white as snow, delicate and flawless. Her rosy cheeks added to her allure. Her movements were graceful and swaying.

Seeing that it was the mistress again, Yan Qing, though somewhat annoyed, had no choice but to bow his head and say, "Greetings, Madam."

Seeing Yan Qing's continued deference, Jia Shi grew anxious and pressed her ample bosom against his chest, asking in a coquettish voice, "What are you looking for, Xiao Yi?"

Jia Shi had come intentionally to seduce Yan Qing; her clothes were extremely thin. With this close proximity, Yan Qing could clearly feel the softness and elasticity of Jia Shi's breasts. Through the thin fabric, he could even vaguely see her full breasts, and at the same time, a cool, tantalizing scent filled his mouth.

Although Yan Qing frequented brothels, he only frequented them for the sake of witty young men from wealthy families who sought to cultivate an air of refinement; he had no interest in real sex. Teased by Jia Shi, his handsome face flushed red, and he took a few steps back, saying, "I'm looking for a fan."

Seeing Yan Qing's expression, Jia felt even more confident. She tossed her hair, looked at him alluringly, and said, "Do you need me to help you find it?"

Yan Qing, seeing Jia's seductive gesture, felt a surge of heat in his heart. Afraid of doing something disrespectful to his mistress, he quickly replied, "No need, I've already found it. I have some things to attend to, Madam, please go back."

Seeing Yan Qing's dismissal, Jia was secretly annoyed. She snatched the fan from Yan Qing's hand and mocked, "Such an exquisite fan! I wonder which brothel you're going to this time?"

Yan Qing quickly said, "Madam, you misunderstand. I'm just meeting some acquaintances for drinks."

Jia opened the fan, played with it, and said sourly, "Who doesn't know the name of Yan Qing, the Beijing playboy? I just don't know what's so good about those brothel girls."

Hearing this, Yan Qing didn't dare to retort. Looking at the four lines of poetry on the fan, he feared even more trouble, but dared not snatch it back.

Seeing that Yan Qing was only staring at the fan in her hand, Jia Shi raised the fan to her chest and said coquettishly, "I heard that Xiao Yi is covered in embroidery. May I take a look?"

Yan Qing, seeing her increasingly vulgar tone, dared not linger and said, "Xiao Yi has to go now. I'll serve you again when I have time, Madam."

He then hurried away.

Watching Yan Qing's retreating figure, Jia Shi felt her jealousy and resentment intensify. Back in her room, she sent her personal maid to find the steward, Li Gu.

It turned out that Lu Junyi usually only cared about cultivating his physical strength and didn't value women much, nor was he willing to expend much energy on them. Jia Shi, however, was in her prime, confident in her beauty, and naturally alluring; how could she resist the loneliness of her chambers? Before long, she and the steward, Li Gu, began an affair. Later, seeing Yan Qing's outstanding appearance, she wanted to find another lover, but Yan Qing refused her advances several times.

As soon as Li Gu entered the room, he closed the door. Seeing Jia lying on the bed, he lost all restraint. He rushed forward and embraced her, his hands roaming over her body.

Jia, whose desire had been aroused by Yan Qing, had nowhere to vent, and she responded passionately.

Soon, two pale, fleshy bodies filled the room.

Li Gu withdrew his fingers from Jia's genitals, looking at the glistening fluid, and lewdly laughed, "You got hot so quickly today!"

Jia glared at Li Gu, her delicate hand moving to grasp his penis, pulling it forcefully inside her, and then began to sway her plump buttocks.

Seeing Jia's eagerness, Li Gu's perverse thoughts intensified. He embraced Jia's slender waist, held his fingers out to her, and said, "Lick it clean."

Jia, her desire insatiable, didn't hesitate and began to lick her own fluids.

Seeing his usually dignified and noble mistress at his mercy, Li Gu couldn't control himself, and his lower body began to move violently.

Jia Shi immediately swayed her plump buttocks in response.

Before long, Li Gu ejaculated profusely and collapsed limply onto the bed.

Jia Shi, unwilling to accept defeat, swayed her buttocks a few more times, inwardly cursing Li Gu's impotence. Glancing at Yan Qing's fan, she couldn't help but fantasize about making love with him.

After resting for a while, Li Gu noticed Jia staring blankly at a fan. He picked it up and asked, "Whose fan is this?"

Jia, not wanting to cause trouble, replied evasively, "Lu Junyi's."

Li Gu opened the fan and saw four lines of calligraphy. He casually read: "To live, be a hero; to die, a ghost of valor. Even now, I think of Xiang Yu, who refused to cross the Yangtze River. Zhang Yang."

After reading, Li Gu exclaimed, "I wonder who this Zhang Yang is? His poetry is quite remarkable, and he doesn't seem like a very peaceful person."

Jia said, "Didn't you say a few days ago that there was a Zhang Yang on Liangshan? And Lu Junyi's junior brother, Lin Chong, is also on Liangshan. Maybe it's him."

Upon hearing this, Li Gu was initially startled, but then a wicked idea popped into his head. Thinking of the good thing, he forgot about his intimacy with Jia and got up to dress.

Seeing Li Gu's hurried manner, Jia scolded, "What's the rush? Lu Junyi just went to the backyard to practice martial arts; he won't be back until noon."

Li Gu hugged Jia and kissed her, saying, "This vast fortune will soon be ours. I'll accuse Lu Junyi of colluding with the Liangshan bandits. You just need to insist that this fan belongs to Lu Junyi, and after it's done, we won't have to sneak around anymore."

Jia thought for a moment and said, "Okay, but this fortune must be transferred to my name."

Li Gu knew Jia had never touched money before, so he would be in charge. He smiled and said, "You are his wife, so naturally you will manage the fortune. You wait, I'll go to the authorities now."

Jia thought to herself: Once she takes control of the fortune, Yan Qing will be hers for the taking.

Seeing Jia's longing expression, Li Gu assumed she was imagining their future happiness and hurried off to the government office.

Chapter Seventy-Six: Yan Qing Goes Up the Mountain.

Liang Zhongshu had long coveted Lu Junyi's wealth, but Lu Junyi was focused on martial arts and had little social interaction, making it difficult to deal with him. Hearing that Lu Junyi's steward was requesting an audience, he quickly had him brought in.

Li Gu entered and knelt down, saying, "This humble one, Li Gu, greets the garrison commander."

Liang Zhongshu said, "No need for formalities. May I ask what business you have with me?"

Li Gu rose, bowed his head, and said, "This humble one has important matters to report. Please examine this fan first, sir." He then presented the fan with both hands.

Liang Zhongshu, a scholar who had passed the imperial examinations, was quite knowledgeable in poetry. He opened his fan and saw four lines of poetry inscribed on it, and couldn't help but recite: "To live, be a hero; to die, a ghost of valor."

Upon reading this, he exclaimed, "What a fine poem! The first two lines alone are worthy of being passed down through the ages!" He

then recited: "Even now, I think of Xiang Yu, who refused to cross the Yangtze River."

After finishing, he sighed, "These last two lines are also thought-provoking."

Seeing Liang Zhongshu's high praise, Li Gu hurriedly said, "My lord, please look at the signature."

Liang Zhongshu, his train of thought interrupted by Li Gu, was greatly disappointed. He glanced at the signature and said, "Zhang Yang? I've never heard of this scholar before. Judging from this poem, he must be quite talented. How come I've never heard of him before?"

Li Gu said, "This was written by Zhang Yang of Liangshan. It has a strong rebellious intent. Please, my lord, investigate carefully."

Liang Zhongshu, however, only considered the scholar's perspective. Hearing this, he exclaimed in surprise, "If it is truly his work, then these last two lines are indeed worthy of deep thought!" "Is he planning to seize control of Shandong and challenge the imperial court?"

Thinking this, he couldn't help but ask Li Gu, "This is indeed an item for rebellion. Where did you get it?"

Li Gu replied, "This was treasured by Lu Junyi in his study, but my wife accidentally took it out. Knowing it was evidence that would bring disaster to the whole family, she sent me to report it to the authorities. Please, Your Excellency, arrest that scoundrel Lu Junyi to prevent him from colluding with bandits and harming the entire city."

Liang Zhongshu said, "Considering your and your wife's merit in reporting this first, I will pardon you both. I will send men to arrest Lu Junyi. You can lead men to search and confiscate all of Lu Junyi's properties; I will reward you handsomely." Upon

hearing this, Li Gu was taken aback, realizing he had wasted his time. But then he thought of how he could curry favor with Liang Zhongshu, so he flattered him, "I have all of Lu Junyi's accounts; I will definitely help Your Excellency seize them all."

Liang Zhongshu nodded in satisfaction and immediately summoned Prefect Wang.

Prefect Wang was a cowardly man, and upon hearing this, he said, "Last time, when Dongping Prefecture captured Song Jiang, it attracted the Liangshan bandits to the city gates. If Lu Junyi is indeed in league with the Liangshan bandits, we must find a way to deal with him."

Liang Zhongshu also nodded and said, "What Prefect Wang says is very true. The court has tried to capture the Liangshan bandits several times without success. If they attack, we are afraid we will not be able to resist. I heard that Grand Commandant Gao once wanted to set up a challenge in Tai'an Prefecture to capture people, and now he is leading troops to suppress Liangshan. Why not send this man to him? When the time comes for success, you and I will also have a share of the credit."

Prefect Wang said, "Your Excellency is wise, but we must publicize this matter to prevent the bandits from mistakenly attacking our city."

The two agreed and arranged for Li Gu and the officials to arrest the people.

Li Gu led the officials to the Lu residence, where they blocked the front and back gates and began arresting people en masse. Lu Junyi, hearing the commotion in the courtyard, came out and saw many officials arresting people. Just as he was about to question them, he was knocked down and tied up by several officials.

Before long, Lu Junyi's entire family was bound hand and foot, tied together, and taken to prison.

Yan Qing was drinking in a restaurant when he overheard someone say, "Have you heard? The entire Lu family has just been imprisoned for allegedly colluding with the Liangshan bandits."

Another person said, "Impossible! The Lu family has been wealthy for generations and is a prominent family in Beijing. How could they collude with bandits?"

The first person said, "I heard they have a fan with Zhang Yang's inscription from Liangshan."

Upon hearing this, Yan Qing was greatly alarmed and rushed to the government office to inquire. Fearing recognition, he had no choice but to let his hair down, tear his clothes, and disguise himself as a beggar.

Upon arriving at the yamen, he saw a large crowd gathered around the gate. He joined the crowd and heard someone read aloud: "Lu Junyi has been colluding with the Liangshan bandits and possesses a fan inscribed with calligraphy by Zhang Yang, the leader of the Liangshan bandits. This is an unforgivable crime. He is being escorted to Dongjing (Kaifeng) to be punished as a warning to others."

Hearing this, Yan Qing breathed a sigh of relief. Seeing that the officials were paying attention to him, he quickly turned and left the city.

Once outside, Yan Qing lamented, "I've ruined my master's life. I should go and confess myself."

After taking a few steps, he thought of how Liang Zhongshu had confiscated the property of several wealthy households since taking office. His master's family was also extremely wealthy; he probably wouldn't return the spoils after being punished.

Losing himself wouldn't matter much, but his master would be left without anyone to save him. However, he had no powerful relatives. It seemed his only option was to go to Liangshan. If he recognized Zhang Yang, he might be able to save his master's life; otherwise, he would have no choice but to repay the debt with his life.

Thinking this, Yan Qing turned and headed back onto the official road. Seeing a rider approaching from behind, he quickly stepped into the middle of the road to block him.

The rider reined in his horse, about to shout insults, when Yan Qing pulled him off.

Yan Qing cupped his hands and said, "Excuse me." Before the man could react, he leaped onto his horse and galloped away.

Yan Qing didn't waste his horse's strength, traveling through the night and arriving at Liangshan the next morning.

During the previous raid on the camp and the assault on Tong Guan's central army, Zhang Yang's personal guards suffered nearly a hundred casualties. Zhang Yang was quite dissatisfied with this and had significantly increased the intensity of their training.

While Zhang Yang was training his personal guards, he heard that Yan Qing was coming up the mountain and hurried to the gate of the main camp to greet him. He was startled to see a disheveled, ragged man following behind his soldiers.

Yan Qing grew increasingly nervous as he approached the mountain stronghold. What if Zhang Yang of Liangshan wasn't the person he knew? He feared he would have needlessly sent his master and his family to their deaths. If it was the same person, and Zhang Yang didn't remember him, what would he do then?

Upon reaching the stronghold, he saw that the person before him was none other than Zhang Shanggu, whom he had met once before. Overjoyed, he rushed forward and knelt down, pleading, "Brother, please save my master's life!"

Zhang Yang helped Yan Qing up, saying, "Little Yi, it's only been half a year since we last met, how come you're in such a sorry state? Has something happened to your master?"

Seeing that Zhang Yang remembered him, Yan Qing felt somewhat relieved and recounted in detail how Lu Junyi had been captured because of the fan and was to be escorted to Dongjing.

Zhang Yang had only kept the fan so that Yan Qing could come to him if needed, never expecting it would lead to Lu Junyi's downfall. Hearing this, Zhang Yang said, "Don't worry, Xiao Yi. This matter started because of me, and I will definitely rescue your master. Come with me to change your clothes first, and then we'll discuss it."

Yan Qing knew that there was no time to lose, so he and Zhang Yang washed up and changed their clothes, regaining their composure.

Zhang Yang had someone invite Dai Zong and explained the whole story. He then said, "If Master Lu has been sent to Tokyo, it will be difficult to rescue him. The matter is urgent, so I'll trouble you to take your hawk and investigate."

Dai Zong said, "Don't worry, Chief, I will find out Master Lu's whereabouts as soon as possible."

Zhang Yang said, "The soldiers should be escorting him along the official road. You can also contact spies in the nearby prefectures to inquire."

Dai Zong bowed again and then took his leave.

Chapter 77: Suo Chao Accompanies

Liang Zhongshu After capturing Lu Junyi, Zhang Yang had someone invite the military commander, Da Dao Wen Da, and the Heavenly King Li Cheng.

After exchanging greetings, Liang Zhongshu said, "Today, a Liangshan bandit was captured in the prefecture. I intend to send him to Grand Commandant Gao in Dongjing. You two can recommend a general to escort him to Dongjing."

Upon hearing this, Li Cheng said, "I heard that last time Dongping Prefecture captured a Liangshan bandit, which led to the Liangshan army besieging the city. Why don't you, sir, also lure them out? If that bandit is old and frail, and leaves their lair to lead their troops here, I'm not boasting, but I will ensure they don't return with a single soldier!"

Liang Zhongshu said, "That's a self-destructive strategy. Dongping Prefecture fell because of this last time. How can we follow in their footsteps?"

Li Cheng said, "Beijing is well-fortified, well-supplied, and has 30,000 elite troops. The bandits will find it difficult to conquer. The Liangshan bandits have repeatedly resisted the imperial army. If you, sir, can capture their leader, it will be a great achievement. Even if..." "Even if we cannot win, we can hold our ground and wait for reinforcements. Once the imperial army arrives, we can

launch a coordinated attack from within and without, and surely we can wipe out the bandits at the city walls. At that time, it will still be your great achievement, sir." Seeing that Liang Zhongshu was somewhat tempted, Prefect Wang hurriedly said, "Last time, Grand Tutor Tong's 100,000 elite troops were completely wiped out. How can the 30,000 troops in the city possibly defeat the bandits? Besides, you have already posted a notice to escort Lu Junyi to Tokyo. How can you break your promise to the people of the city? Moreover, as long as we escort him to Tokyo, it will be a great achievement. Why take any more risks?"

Upon hearing this, Liang Zhongshu also said, "What you say is very true, Lord Wang. You can recommend a general. Don't cause any more trouble."

Li Cheng, upon hearing this, did not say anything more and stepped forward, saying, "This humble general recommends my vanguard, Suo Chao. If he escorts the goods, there will certainly be no loss."

Upon hearing this, Liang Zhongshu immediately sent someone to summon Suo Chao.

Before long, a general entered. Liang Zhongshu saw that this general was over seven feet tall, with a round face, large ears, wide lips, and a square mouth, with a thick beard on his cheeks. He was imposing and dignified, and Liang Zhongshu nodded repeatedly.

Suo Chao bowed to Liang Zhongshu and said, "I wonder what orders Your Excellency has summoned me for?"

Liang Zhongshu said, "Today, a Liangshan bandit was captured in the manor. I want you to lead men to escort him to Grand Commandant Gao in the Imperial Guard in Tokyo. You will be promoted in the future."

Suo Chao replied, "I accept the order. When can we depart?"

Liang Zhongshu said, "Right now. The bandit has already been loaded into a prison cart. You can gather your men and escort him directly to Tokyo."

Suo Chao then took his leave. Back at the military camp, he mustered five hundred cavalrymen and set off with Lu Junyi.

Dai Zong arrived in Daming Prefecture, Beijing, and spent a little money to inquire about the situation of the escort team and their departure time from the military camp and the prison. They chased along the official road for dozens of miles and spotted Suo Chao's troops. After observing them discreetly, they flew back to Liangshan. The round trip took no more than half a day.

Zhang Yang was discussing with the leaders how to deal with Gao Qiu's ten armies when he heard that Dai Zong had returned to the mountain. He quickly invited him in.

Dai Zong entered the Hall of Righteousness, bowed, and said, "Yesterday, after Lord Lu was captured, he was taken to Dongjing (Kaifeng) and did not suffer any torture."

Yan Qing, who had also been specially allowed to attend the meeting by Zhang Yang, breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this.

Dai Zong continued, "Liang Zhongshu (Liang Zhongshu) has sent five hundred elite cavalry to escort them, led by an officer named Suo Chao, the Vanguard. They are currently in Nanle County."

Yang Zhi said, "When I first arrived in Beijing, I fought with Suo Chao, and his martial arts are no less than mine."

Wu Yong said, "The troops from Hedong and Hebei have already set out. If we send a large force to rescue them, we may be besieged. It would be best to send a small elite force to relieve them."

Zhang Yang, eager to test his personal guards' long-distance raiding capabilities, nodded and said, "The strategist is quite right. I will lead the personal guards to handle this matter. As for Gao Qiu's attack, you can discuss it first and then give me your opinions. Yang Zhi, Wu Song, Yan Qing, and Dai Zong, come down the mountain with me."

With that, Zhang Yang, along with Wu Song, Yan Qing, and his personal guards, descended the mountain. They rode through the night and arrived at Qingfeng County at dawn. Zhang Yang and Dai Zong flew into the air

on their eagles. Seeing that the surrounding area was mostly flat plains for hundreds of miles, they found a slightly undulating hill where their troops could rest. The morning sun was still warm. Sitting on the back of the giant eagle, Zhang Yang looked down at the vast plains below, feeling a sense of openness in his heart. Looking at the three eaglets beside him, their wingspans already nearly ten feet, playfully attacking each other, he thought of his unborn child and was filled with love.

Returning to ancient times, Zhang Yang lost the warmth of family ties, and thus regarded all Han people as his own, rarely killing anyone, even a ticking time bomb like Song Jiang, hoping he could see the bigger picture.

Looking at the few remaining paddy fields beneath him, Zhang Yang couldn't help but shake his head.

Although the Song Dynasty was economically and culturally advanced, its military was the weakest of all dynasties. Its border defenses were completely lost, and subsequent emperors lacked ambition and talent; even the few capable generals were quickly sidelined. Since the Treaty of Shanyuan, successive emperors had deliberately focused on defense. To prevent the Liao cavalry from invading south, their method was to encourage the people to cultivate paddy fields and build canals. Unfortunately, the Liao Dynasty saw through the Song Dynasty's intentions and prohibited the construction of canals, shattering the Song emperors' only hope.

The Song Dynasty had over 100 million Han people; such a massive population base could have been enough to control Asia. However, they were confined to the Central Plains, which, while greatly increasing labor and promoting commerce, forced population control in areas like Fujian where arable land was scarce. This was undoubtedly a regret for the Han people.

As Zhang Yang was pondering this, a troop of men appeared on the official road below, escorting a prison cart in the middle. Zhang Yang glanced at them briefly, then commanded the giant eagle to climb higher. He discovered a large army heading east about ten miles to the north, but there were no scouts in between, so neither side seemed aware of the other's presence. Moreover, his personal guards could easily handle five hundred men over that distance and then retreat calmly.

Seeing that Suo Chao's marching direction was the same as his own troops' resting direction, Zhang Yang flew directly back to their resting place and led his men to meet them.

Hearing the loud sound of hooves ahead, Suo Chao hurriedly shouted, "Zhou Jin, guard the prison cart! The rest of you, form ranks!"

Seeing Suo Chao startled and form ranks, Zhang Yang also waved to stop his personal guards.

Suo Chao was secretly alarmed that Zhang Yang had stopped nearly a thousand galloping cavalrymen with a wave of his hand. Seeing Yang Zhi ahead, Suo Chao knew the other side was from Liangshan and that things couldn't be resolved peacefully today. He spurred his horse forward and said, "Why aren't you enjoying your fortune at Liangshan? What are you doing blocking the official road?"

Yang Zhi rode forward and said

, "General Suo, how have you been?" Suo Chao said, "Is that Yang Zhi, the one who betrayed the court? Last time you embezzled the garrison commander's birthday gifts; are you planning to rob someone again?"

Seeing Suo Chao's rudeness, and not wanting to embarrass Yang Zhi, Zhang Yang also spurred his horse forward and said, "I am Zhang Yang from Liangshan. My purpose here is to retrieve the person imprisoned in the carriage. If you are willing to come up the mountain with us, I will treat you differently. Otherwise, let's settle this immediately."

Zhang Yang had captured many fierce generals and was now famous throughout the land.

Suo Chao was surprised to see a handsome young man opposite him claiming to be Zhang Yang.

Behind him, the general Wang Ding, fearless as a newborn calf, spurred his horse forward and said, "This humble general will test the bandits' skills."

Suo Chao, also impressed by Zhang Yang's reputation, nodded and said, "Be careful."

Wang Ding obeyed and rode off to attack Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang waited until Wang Ding's spear was inches away before dodging. Before Wang Ding could react, Zhang Yang lunged forward, grabbed his armor belt, kicked his horse aside, and pulled Wang Ding onto the steed.

Suo Chao, seeing Zhang Yang capture Wang Ding in a single move, was greatly surprised. Seeing Zhang Yang carrying someone in his left hand, he knew the opportunity was rare and spurred his horse to fight Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang, seeing this, did not dodge. He placed Wang Ding in front of him and charged at Suo Chao with his spear.

Seeing Zhang Yang wielding his spear with one hand, Suo Chao swung his axe with all his might, attempting a decisive blow.

Zhang Yang did not engage him directly. Relying on his superior speed, he struck first and swept Suo Chao off his horse. Then, Zhang Yang dismounted and helped Suo Chao up, saying, "I had no choice;

please forgive me for any offense I may have committed." Seeing Zhang Yang's respectful words, Suo Chao replied, "I have long heard of your righteousness, General, and your actions on behalf of Heaven. However, being in the court, I am forced to fight you. I am ashamed."

Yang Zhi also rode forward, saying, "The Emperor is incompetent, and treacherous officials are wielding power. Why doesn't General Suo join us in this battle, to find a safe haven for the people?"

Suo Chao bowed and said, "Thank you for your guidance. I am willing to serve as your vanguard."

Zhang Yang was overjoyed at this, helped Suo Chao up, encouraged him, and then invited Lu Junyi forward.

After learning the truth, Lu Junyi couldn't help but blame Yan Qing, but he couldn't turn back and had to go up the mountain with the others.

Chapter Seventy-Eight: First, the Two Provinces of Henan and Hebei were taken over .

Wang Huan, the military governor of Henan and Hebei, received the document from the Privy Council and dared not delay. After arranging defenses in various places, he mustered his troops and headed towards Jizhou.

Upon reaching the territory of Dongping Prefecture, his advisor said, "If we continue any further, we'll reach the outskirts of Liangshan Marsh. Perhaps we should change course and go through Puyang, then detour to Jizhou."

Wang Huan, also a former outlaw who had accepted amnesty and fought against the Liao Dynasty in Hebei for decades before rising to the rank of military governor, though nearing seventy, still retained his youthful fiery temper. Hearing this, he retorted, "The generals sent by the court last time were merely scions of noble families, and their troops were all Taiping rebels from within the country. How can they compare to my battle-hardened army? If the Liangshan bandits dare to venture out of the marsh, I will slaughter them all, saving other military governors the trouble of waging war."

His advisor knew that Wang Huan's decisions were difficult to change, so he could only send more scouts.

Just past Dulong Ridge, scouts discovered a large force blocking their path.

Upon hearing the report, Wang Huan was not alarmed but delighted. He ordered his troops to form a battle formation and led his army to meet them. They only managed to establish a foothold two miles from the Liangshan army's formation.

Wang Huan was taken aback when he saw the well-organized and gleaming armor of the Liangshan army opposite him, realizing they were no ordinary bandits. He then noticed a large banner in the center bearing the words "Zhang Yang," indicating that the bandit leader had personally descended the mountain.

The Liao Kingdom had been engaged in constant warfare with the Jin Kingdom in recent years, leading to financial strain and frequent delays in the payment of troops stationed on the Song-Liao border. This resulted in a significant increase in raids on Song territory by various tribes .

Although Wang Huan dared not openly wage war against the Liao Kingdom, minor skirmishes were frequent. Fortunately, the Liao Kingdom also did not want to fight on two fronts and dared not launch a large-scale invasion of Song.

Upon learning of the Song-Jin alliance, Wang Huan also prepared his troops for further glory. Seeing the well-disciplined Liangshan army and not wanting to suffer too many casualties, he conceived the idea of capturing the leader of the bandits.

He spurred his horse forward, shouting, "You unruly bandits, you dare-to-die country bumpkins! The bandit leader over there,

Zhang Yang, dare you fight me to the death?" Just as Zhang Yang was about to engage, Lu Junyi said, "I've only recently joined Liangshan and haven't achieved anything yet. Perhaps

I should fight on behalf of the chieftain." Zhang Yang, also wanting to see Lu Junyi's skills, nodded and said, "This man is highly skilled; be careful."

Lu Junyi accepted the order, spurred his horse forward, and said, "You arrogant fool,

you'll have to get past me, Lu Junyi!" Seeing Lu Junyi's insolence, Wang Huan didn't reply and thrust his spear forward.

Lu Junyi parried with his staff.

The two were evenly matched, and within moments they had exchanged seventy or eighty blows. Wang Huan, being over seventy, was showing signs of fatigue after such a long fight.

Fearing Lu Junyi might injure Wang Huan, Zhang Yang quickly ordered someone to sound the gong to recall Lu Junyi.

Lu Junyi turned his horse around and said, "The enemy general is already exhausted, and I am about to make my contribution. Why should the chieftain sound the retreat?"

Zhang Yang laughed, "Commander Wang is old and has spent his life guarding the borders. I feared you might harm him, so I sounded the retreat. Let me persuade him to continue the fight."

Wang Huan was about to fight to the death when he saw Liangshan suddenly sound the retreat, and dared not pursue. Just as he hesitated, a handsome young man rode out and bowed, saying, "Zhang Yang of Liangshan greets Commander Wang."

Upon hearing this, Wang Huan couldn't help but scrutinize Zhang Yang carefully. Wang Huan had also been a bandit, and naturally knew that most bandits were unruly and unruly, and it would be difficult to lead a group of people without extraordinary abilities. Seeing that Zhang Yang had a refined appearance yet could lead a group of fierce warriors, he couldn't help but be secretly amazed.

Seeing Wang Huan looking at him thoughtfully, Zhang Yang asked again, "Governor Wang has served in the northern frontier for decades. Could you tell me about the Liao army's strength?"

Although Wang Huan didn't know Zhang Yang's purpose, seeing his humility and politeness, he replied, "After the Khitan people established their state, they indulged in pleasure, and their fighting strength is not what it used to be. However, the Liao Dynasty possesses a large number of iron cavalry, and its overall military strength is slightly stronger than ours."

Zhang Yang then asked, "What about the Jin army's fighting strength?"

Wang Huan replied, "The Jin Dynasty has only been established for five years, yet it has already captured most of the Liao Dynasty's cities. Although I have never seen their troops, I imagine their fighting strength far surpasses that of the Liao army."

Zhang Yang asked, "Then how does our country compare to the Jin Dynasty?"

Wang Huan thought for a moment, then still said, "Naturally, we are inferior." Zhang

Yang said, "Our army is already inferior to that of the Jin, and there are many treacherous officials in the court who are wielding power. Once the Song and Jin border each other, wouldn't our country be even inferior to the Liao?"

Wang Huan sighed inwardly, but still said, "Our cities are much higher and more fortified than those of the Liao. How could the Jin easily conquer them?"

Zhang Yang shook his head and said, "General Wang, why deceive yourself? There is no city in the world that cannot be conquered. Moreover, the key to defending a city lies in the people, but now the court is filled with treacherous officials who are wielding power, and the exorbitant taxes are as numerous as hairs on a cow, causing widespread resentment. If the Jin really attacks, how can we unite to defend the city?"

Upon hearing this, Wang Huan... Unable to refute, he countered, "Then what do you intend to do after gathering at Liangshan?"

Zhang Yang replied, "If the current emperor can regain his strength, we are willing to fight our way to the frontier for a title and a secure future. Otherwise, we will not hesitate to overthrow the Song Dynasty. I also do not wish to further weaken our nation's military strength, so let's make a gentleman's agreement."

Wang Huan knew he had underestimated the Liangshan army, but he was now unable to extricate himself, so he said, "Tell me, Chief."

Zhang Yang said, "If I am fortunate enough to defeat the governor within one round, he will surrender with his troops; otherwise, I will obey his orders."

Wang Huan had been a wandering outlaw and a warrior on the battlefield for a long time. Rarely encountering a worthy opponent, upon hearing this, he laughed heartily, "Chief, you dare to entrust your life to this battle, you must be very confident. I shouldn't accept the challenge, but I'm born with a stubborn disbelief in evil, so let's give it our all. If you are unfortunately defeated, I will certainly guarantee your safety before the Emperor."

Zhang Yang laughed, "In that case, I thank you in advance, Commander. You have already fought nearly a hundred rounds, so I will adopt a defensive stance."

This battle was of great importance, so Wang Huan didn't stand on ceremony, saying, "Be careful." He spurred his horse straight at Zhang Yang, and upon reaching him, he roared, about to thrust out his steel spear, when a spear shadow, like a venomous snake, touched him and retreated instantly, and a crisp sound came from his chest.

Zhang Yang cupped his hands and said, "You flatter me."

Upon hearing this, Wang Huan's expression changed drastically. He reined in his horse and looked down, only to see that his breastplate had been pierced with a hole the size of a finger.

This defeat was a devastating blow to Wang Huan, a veteran of decades of battlefield experience; his former ambitions vanished in an instant.

After a long pause, he dismounted and bowed, saying, "Greetings, Chieftain."

Zhang Yang quickly dismounted and helped Wang Huan up, saying, "General, there's no need for such a grand ceremony. I've already prepared a banquet for you at the stronghold. Let's go up the mountain now."

Hearing this, Wang Huan had no choice but to comply and lead his troops up the mountain.

Although the various units were rotated annually according to the Song Dynasty's garrison system, they were mostly soldiers from the Hebei border. Wang Huan, having led troops in the northern frontier for decades, had commanded almost every unit and enjoyed considerable prestige. Furthermore, with the large number of soldiers at Liangshan, no unit dared to harbor any disloyalty.

Seeing Wang Huan's distraught state, Zhang Yang signaled Yang Zhi to step forward and comfort him.

Yang Zhi cupped his hands and said, "Commander Wang, don't take it to heart. The chieftain's skills are extraordinary; even we few dare not face him normally. Brother Guan Sheng's ancestor was a martial saint, with a long and distinguished family tradition of martial arts; they are truly outstanding generals. Yet, even they were defeated in a single exchange by the chieftain. The chieftain's skills are far beyond those of us mere mortals;

Commander, don't be discouraged." Hearing this, Wang Huan felt somewhat relieved. Seeing the blue mole on Yang Zhi's face, he recalled the rumors circulating in the martial world and asked, "General, are you a descendant of the late General Yang, the Blue-Faced Beast Yang Zhi?"

Yang Zhi replied, "That is indeed me."

The Yang family generals had earned their great reputation in Hebei during their campaigns against the Liao Kingdom. Wang Huan had heard much about them in Hebei and held the Yang family ancestors in high esteem. Hearing Yang Zhi's high praise for Zhang Yang, he put aside his defeat and began to talk about Zhang Yang.

The group then went to the mountain stronghold for a feast, which lasted until evening.

Just as Zhang Yang was about to return to his courtyard, Wu Yong caught up with him and said, "Chief, Wang Huan's troops are still in the camp at the foot of the mountain. If they rebel, it might be difficult to handle. Perhaps we should incorporate them into the reserve force and reorganize them."

Zhang Yang shook his head and said, "The reserve force is for selecting elite soldiers. Wang Huan's troops are a battle-hardened army, so there's no need for reorganization. I think Wang Huan is a man of integrity, and he has a very high reputation among the troops. He shouldn't cause any trouble. Trust those you employ, and don't employ those you don't trust. Instruct all units not to cause trouble, and those who disobey will be severely punished. It's getting late, you should go back and rest too."

Wu Yong seemed to understand what was going on, bowed, and took his leave.

The next day, he used the same method to subdue the troops of Xu Jing, the military governor of Shangdang and Taiyuan.

Chapter Seventy-Nine: Gao Qiu Takes

Charge After the Privy Council issued troop mobilization orders to the ten military governors, Gao Qiu was not in a hurry to set off. He spent his days enjoying himself with Wang Fu and Cai You, accompanying Emperor Huizong. Upon learning that Liangshan had intercepted two armies, Gao Qiu hastily ordered the other eight armies to converge on Xingren Prefecture.

Once all eight armies had assembled, Gao Qiu selected 20,000 elite troops from the Imperial Guards of Dongjing (Kaifeng), assigning them to the commanders Dang Shiying and Dang Shixiong of the Palace Guard. They began preparing armor and making banners. When the naval forces of Jinling and Jiankang Prefecture arrived along the river, Gao Qiu led his troops from Dongjing. Fearing boredom among the troops, he specially selected over thirty singers and dancers from the brothels to entertain them.

When Gao Qiu entered Xingren Prefecture, it was already mid-June.

The various military governors, commanders, and the prefect of Xingren Prefecture naturally dared not neglect this favorite of the emperor. Having learned that Gao Qiu's army was ten li outside the city, they all went to greet him outside the city.

It was noon, and the few clouds that had appeared earlier had vanished. The sun hung high overhead, scorching everything, and the gentle breeze that had occasionally blown earlier was nowhere to be seen.

All the military commanders and officers, clad in armor and helmets, were soon soaked with sweat. The prefect of Xingren Prefecture, though only wearing his official robes, had been well-versed in literature since childhood and had lived a life of luxury since entering officialdom, making him no better off than the other generals.

Seeing that more than half an hour had passed and Gao Qiu's army still hadn't appeared, the men secretly groaned, but dared not urge them or leave. The prefect of Xingren Prefecture, disregarding any semblance of decorum, ordered his subordinates to stand in a row to block the sun, while he sat down to cool off.

After a long while, a large army finally appeared on the horizon, led by a sedan chair carried by eight men.

Sweat stung their eyes. The sedan

bearers, thinking of the whip that might fall from behind at any moment, dared not raise their hands to wipe it away. They had to keep their eyes wide open, avoiding the uneven ground under their feet, lest the jolting wake Gao Qiu,

who was sleeping inside, and invite a beating. Seeing the welcoming crowd approaching, Li Yu, who was serving outside the sedan, cautiously woke Gao Qiu. Gao Qiu groggily opened his eyes, lifted the sedan curtain, and seeing that they were still outside the city, said, "Have the army camp outside the city. The welcoming party should go to the government office inside the city."

After saying this, he lowered the curtain again and continued to dream.

Upon hearing this, Li Yuhou ordered the sedan chair bearers to enter the city. Passing the welcoming crowd, he arrogantly declared, "My Grand Commandant has instructed everyone to wait at the government office."

The crowd, angered by Gao Qiu and his servants' rudeness, had no choice but to slowly dawdle behind the sedan chair.

Upon arriving at the government office, Li Yuhou woke Gao Qiu.

Gao Qiu reluctantly alighted from the sedan chair, still feeling drowsy, and said to the waiting prefect, "I'm tired from the journey; please take me to the guest room to rest. The rest of you can come later tonight." The

prefect, not daring to disobey, led Gao Qiu to the guest room and, together with Li Yuhou, helped him to bed before carefully leaving the room and closing the door.

Seeing the generals still waiting outside, Li Yuhou said, "You may all return; do not disturb the Grand Commandant's sweet dreams."

The generals, hearing this, had no choice but to return to their respective camps.

The military governors of Yingzhou and Runan, Mei Zhan and Zhang Kai, respectively, were stationed at the same camp. The two rode side-by-side outside the city.

Mei Zhan said, "I've long heard that Gao Qiu is a dissolute man, but I never imagined his servants were so arrogant. The Emperor is surrounded by such people; no wonder he's neglected state affairs in recent years."

Zhang Kai, hearing this, quickly said, "With treacherous officials in power, let's not talk about politics. Once we've wiped out the Liangshan bandits, we can return to our posts and won't have to see their faces anymore."

Mei Zhan sighed and said, "I've heard that Liangshan acts on behalf of Heaven; they're really no bandits. Oppressive government is more ferocious than a tiger. If this continues, how many more people will we be able to wipe out? You must have quite a few like that under your rule, right?"

Zhang Kai shook his head and said, "What's the difference now?"

Mei Zhan said, "If we do this, aren't we colluding with those treacherous officials? They force the people to take desperate measures, and we then suppress them. Tell me, is what we're doing right?"

Zhang Kai said helplessly, "We are in positions of power; we can only do our duty."

After saying this, seeing that he had arrived outside his own military camp, he cupped his hands and said, "See you tonight."

Mei Zhan cupped his hands in farewell to Zhang Kai, but did not return to the camp. Instead, he sat in the woods outside the city for the entire afternoon, until evening, when Zhang Kai finally sent someone to find him.

That evening, the generals went to the government office again.

The prefect had already prepared a welcoming banquet for Gao Qiu. Gao Qiu and a few others drank a few cups, and then casually summoned the singers and dancers he had brought to entertain them.

When Mei Zhan saw that Gao Qiu had even brought prostitutes with him on his expedition, his face turned ashen.

Zhang Kai had noticed Mei Zhan's unusual behavior that day and, fearing that he might do something, quickly pulled Mei Zhan under the table.

Mei Zhan forced himself to remain calm, raised his wine cup, and downed several cups in quick succession. He

stood up and said, "Grand Commandant, I am feeling unwell and must take my leave." Gao Qiu waved his hand and said, "Go ahead, we'll discuss matters again tomorrow."

Mei Zhan thanked Gao Qiu and left the city.

Gao Qiu watched Mei Zhan's retreating figure, a ruthless glint flashing

in his eyes. Zhang Kai also noticed Gao Qiu's expression and quickly raised his cup, saying, "With the Grand Commandant personally leading the charge, the bandits will surely be wiped out soon. I, this humble general, will first offer a toast to the Grand Commandant."

The other generals, hearing this, also raised their cups in a toast.

Gao Qiu, imagining his own promotion and glory, accepted all the toasts from the generals.

When the wine was flowing freely, Gao Qiu pulled a dancer aside and began to grope her.

Seeing this, the others quickly excused themselves.

Zhang Kai left the city and went straight to Mei Zhan's camp. Upon entering the main tent, Zhang Kai saw Mei Zhan drinking heavily, the air thick with the smell of alcohol.

He snatched the cup from Mei Zhan, frowning, "Why are you drinking so much in the army?"

Mei Zhan looked up and saw Zhang Kai, saying, "If I don't drink, I want to kill. Which do you want me to choose?"

Zhang Kai knew Mei Zhan's problem and shook his head, saying, "I've heard Gao Qiu is vindictive. Today you left the banquet midway, offending him. I'm afraid he'll send you to the front lines this time."

Mei Zhan replied, "Front lines it is then. I'm also curious to see what kind of hero Zhang Yang of Liangshan is."

Zhang Kai didn't think much of it, persuaded Mei Zhan for a while longer, had the wine taken away, and returned to his camp.

Chapter 80: The Second Division Taken

. The next day, everyone went to the government office to answer orders. After waiting for a long time, Gao Qiu finally came out.

Gao Qiu, with his sword drawn, took the seat of honor. After the generals exchanged greetings, he said, "You generals are all seasoned veterans. I recommended you to lead the troops here, so you must not disappoint me. What good plans do you have to defeat the enemy?"

Xiang Yuanzhen, the military governor of Langya Pengcheng, replied, "We can lure the enemy out to fight with our cavalry and infantry, while secretly deploying warships by sea to raid their stronghold. Once the enemy sees their stronghold under attack, they will surely lose their will to fight, and we can then decisively defeat them." Gao

Qiu nodded and said, "This plan suits my purposes perfectly. I will consider how to arrange the troops. You should first gather your forces and then await my summons."

The generals had no choice but to take their leave again.

Just as the group stepped outside the hall, Li Yu, Gao Qiu's attendant, stopped them, saying, "Generals, please bear with us. We're facing a problem with our supplies. My master has petitioned the Emperor multiple times, but to no avail. To expedite the suppression of the Liangshan bandits, my master has had to bribe powerful officials in the court. However, my master's salary is limited, and those officials are demanding exorbitant sums. That's why my master has been delayed until now. If you truly desire to achieve merit, why not contribute some of your wealth so my master can expedite the process and you can also make your mark?"

The group was taken aback by Gao Qiu's blatant extortion, but they had no choice but to agree.

Zhang Kai and Mei Zhan rode side by side outside the city. Zhang Kai said to Mei Zhan, "The world is like this; we have no choice but to compromise. Didn't you see that Han Cunbao, the former Grand Tutor's nephew and the military governor of Yunzhong and Yanmen, readily agree? You mustn't act impulsively."

Mei Zhan laughed, "Then how much are you prepared to offer as tribute?"

Zhang Kai said, "I just heard that Li Congji, the military governor of Longxi and Hanyang, is offering ten thousand strings of cash. We can't be less than him."

Mei Zhan said, "Last year, my jurisdiction suffered a disaster, and all my savings were used to help the victims. Let alone ten thousand strings, I don't even have one hundred strings." Zhang Kai

said, "I'm in the same boat. I can only use the reward money prepared for the soldiers to cover it first. After the bandits are wiped out, the emperor should bestow rewards, and then we can reward the soldiers."

Mei Zhan said, "I don't have that kind of spare money. I want to see what Gao Qiu can do to me."

Seeing this, Zhang Kai shook his head but said nothing more.

That night, Zhang Kai delivered the prepared reward money to the government office, but it was divided into two portions, so naturally, both of them received less than the others.

Five days later, Gao Qiu finally summoned his generals.

After they exchanged greetings, Gao Qiu said, "Thanks to your help, we were able to open the channels in the capital. The provisions will arrive soon, so we can go to Jizhou to wait. Listen to my orders: Zhang Kai and Mei Zhan will lead the vanguard, Han Cunbao and Li Congji will lead the right wing, Xiang Yuanzhen and Jing Zhong will lead the left wing, and Wang Wende and Yang Wen will lead the rearguard. We will set off for Jizhou early tomorrow morning."

The generals accepted the orders and left the city to prepare.

Mei Zhan said to Zhang Kai, "Didn't you use silver? How come you're now in the vanguard?"

Zhang Kai shook his head and said, "You need someone to keep you company. Let's go prepare; we'll be setting off tomorrow."

Seeing that he didn't want to say more, Mei Zhan had no choice but to ride back to camp.

The next day, Gao Qiu led his three armies forward, heading straight for Jizhou.

On the road, Gao Qiu allowed his soldiers to plunder and pillage at will, causing immense suffering to the people. When they set up camp, they would steal doors and windows from the homes of the people to build makeshift shelters, causing great harm to the people.

It took them six days to reach the territory of Jizhou.

The vanguard had just reached the outskirts of Jizhou City when they were blocked by hundreds of yellow-clad cavalrymen. Leading them was a general with a handsome face, striking features, and a resplendent appearance. He was truly a reincarnation of Pan An and Song Yu, and the Overlord Spear in his hand gleamed with golden light. It was Zhang Yang leading his personal guards to give Gao Qiu a taste of his power.

Hearing that Zhang Yang's guards were blocking the way, Zhang Kai hurried forward to investigate.

Seeing the enemy general arrive, Zhang Yang stepped forward and shouted, "What troops are you sending? Why don't you dismount and surrender now?"

Zhang Kai stepped forward and said, "I am Zhang Kai, the military governor of Anping in Zhongshan. Is this Zhang Yang from Liangshan?"

Zhang Yang said, "I didn't expect you to have heard of my name, General. Are you going to aid and abet evil?"

Zhang Kai said, "It is my duty, and I cannot refuse. If the chieftain is willing to submit to the court, we can serve as ministers together."

Zhang Yang laughed, "With treacherous officials in power, I fear I will be beheaded before I even see the emperor. If you insist on being an enemy of Liangshan, why not come out and see who is better?"

Zhang Kai's deputy said, "Why use a sledgehammer to crack a nut? This humble general is willing to capture this villain."

Zhang Kai shook his head and said, "Zhang Yang has captured many generals. I've been wanting to meet him. You can hold the line for me." After saying this, he spurred his horse to attack Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang, however, held his Overlord Spear horizontally on his horse and rode off to meet him.

Seeing this, Zhang Kai was taken aback, and his thrusting spear slowed slightly. Just as Zhang Yang was about to fall beneath his spear, a sense of loss washed over Zhang Kai; the renowned Zhang Yang was actually surrendering to death.

Zhang Yang, however, waited until the spear tip was less than an inch from his chest before twisting away, then with a swift movement of his waist and agile arms, he lifted Zhang Kai onto his horse. With a whistle, he led his personal guards towards Linlang Mountain.

Zhang Kai's deputy, seeing his commander captured, hurriedly led his troops in pursuit.

Mei Zhan, hearing that Zhang Yang had captured Zhang Kai, also had an idea. Without reporting to Gao Qiu, he led his troops in pursuit.

Just as Zhang Kai's troops entered the mountainous region, they heard a cacophony of drums and gongs from the mountains. While Zhang Kai's deputy hesitated, he saw Mei Zhan also leading his troops in pursuit. He stepped forward and said, "The bandits seem to have laid an ambush.

Should we wait for the Grand Commandant's army to arrive before pursuing them?" Mei Zhan, however, had other plans. Hearing this, he said, "The bandits are just bluffing. If they really had an ambush, they would have caught us off guard. Why would they have informed us? Besides, your commander has been captured. Do you still dare to see Grand Commandant Gao? You all come with me. Today, I will definitely reunite you with Commander Zhang."

After saying this, he led his troops in hot pursuit.

Gao Qiu heard that the vanguard Zhang Kai had been captured alive by the Liangshan bandits, and that Mei Zhan had led two divisions into the mountains. He hurriedly led his troops in pursuit. As they entered the mountains, they heard the sound of drums and gongs again.

Gao Qiu saw that the mountains ahead were treacherous and continuous, and he was secretly alarmed. Gao Qiu summoned Dang Shiying

and asked, "How far ahead is it before we exit the mountains?" Dang Shiying, understanding Gao Qiu's concerns, replied, "It's still over twenty li, and it will soon be dark. If the army pursues us into the mountains, we might fall into an ambush. If there's no ambush, our several hundred cavalry will surely be surrounded. Moreover, our soldiers are exhausted and unable to continue the pursuit. We should wait for news in Jizhou."

Gao Qiu, already somewhat fearful, lost even more courage after Dang Shiying's analysis and waved his hand, leading his army back to Jizhou.

Zhang Yang, watching the relentlessly pursuing army, was astonished.

He had thought his hundred personal guards on the mountain would be enough to scare off the pursuers, but the government troops were relentlessly pursuing them. Fortunately, they were unfamiliar with the terrain; otherwise, they might have been surrounded.

Jie Zhen was originally ordered to beat the drums on the mountain and then retreat, but seeing that the vanguard ignored them after pursuing, he scared away Gao Qiu's army and led his troops out of the mountains ahead of the others. Because the situation was unexpected by Zhang Yang, Jie Zhen sent someone to report back to the stronghold. When

Zhang Yang emerged from the mountains, it was already getting dark. Seeing Jie Zhen waiting with his troops, he asked, "How many government troops are pursuing us?"

Jie Zhen replied, "The main force of the government troops was scared away by us; only the vanguard is chasing us, probably about 20,000 men. I have already sent someone to report back to the stronghold."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang was delighted and said, "Well done! You deserve the greatest credit for this battle."

Jie Zhen said, "I was merely following the orders of the stronghold leader."

Zhang Yang laughed, "You deserve the greatest credit for reporting back to the stronghold; it seems these 20,000 troops won't escape either."

Seeing that the government troops were also gradually emerging from the mountains, Zhang Yang led his troops to stop and wait.

Mei Zhan, seeing the Liangshan troops watching from a distance, also began to reorganize his forces.

After the soldiers had formed ranks, Zhang Yang rode up to the front and shouted, "I am Zhang Yang of Liangshan. Please, Commander, come out and answer my question."

Mei Zhan stepped forward and said, "I am Mei Zhan, the Military Governor of Yingzhou and Runan."

Zhang Yang said, "Your Excellency was also forced into rebellion back then, and later accepted the imperial amnesty before leading troops in this region. But now the people are suffering, how can Your Excellency bear to aid the wicked?"

Mei Zhan did not answer directly, but instead asked, "I wonder what the chieftain intends to do by gathering troops?"

Seeing that there seemed to be some clue, Zhang Yang said, "If the Emperor is righteous, we are willing to serve him like dogs and horses; otherwise, we are willing to risk our lives to change the world. Why don't you join us in this great cause?"

Mei Zhan also came from a poor background and had long harbored resentment towards the Song Dynasty. His post was also close to the area where Wang Qing's rebellion had taken place. Through the court's several campaigns, he had seen through the court's true intentions. He had long harbored the desire to change the world, but seeing Wang Qing's cruelty and lack of benevolence, he had not yet joined him. Zhang Kai had long heard of Liangshan's reputation for benevolence and magnanimity.

Hearing this, he said, "Chief, you act on behalf of Heaven! I am willing to serve you. Please release Zhang Jie first, and we will lead our troops to surrender."

Zhang Yang, unconcerned about Zhang Kai's potential change of heart, released him and said, "We became friends through this conflict. General, please go and prepare your troops. We'll all return to the stronghold for a drink." Zhang

Kai returned the gesture, returned to the front lines, and after discussing the matter with Mei Zhan, the two led their troops to surrender to Zhang Yang.

The army had only gone a short distance when they felt a tremendous tremor in the ground, and at the same time, the sound of hooves echoed from the darkness.

Zhang Kai and Mei Zhan, both seasoned warriors, immediately recognized a large cavalry force approaching and were about to warn them when Zhang Yang signaled Wu Song to step forward and call out. The enemy was none other than the Hua Rong Independent Cavalry, dispatched by Wu Yong and Zong Ze after receiving a message from Jie Zhen.

Back at the stronghold, a feast was held.

Chapter 81 Heaven's Will Cannot Be Defied

The next day, just as Gao Qiu was about to send troops to scout the front lines, several soldiers escaped and returned, informing him that Zhang Kai and Mei Zhan had led their troops to Liangshan.

Upon hearing this, Gao Qiu became suspicious of the other commanders as well. He ordered the gathering of ships while simultaneously sending messengers to the capital for reinforcements.

Wang Fu received Gao Qiu's plea for help but wanted to take the opportunity to seize Cai Jing's power. Although Cai Jing had retired, he still had many followers and was naturally unwilling to submit. For a time, Tokyo was also filled with the smoke of war.

Zhang Yang took the opportunity to reorganize his reserve forces and formed seven 10,000-man units, with Lu Zhishen, Lu Junyi, Chao Gai, Duan Pengju, Zhou Xin, Dong Ping, and Zhang Qing serving as commanders. Including the four newly surrendered units, Liangshan had sixteen 10,000-man units. Suo Chao, Li Ying, and Zhu Tong took over as commanders of the 1,000-man cavalry in Hua Rong's unit.

Chao Gai and others had just seized power and were naturally eager for battle to establish merit.

That day, while Zhang Yang was discussing military matters with the other leaders, Chao Gai said, "The stronghold's troops have been reorganized, and Gao Qiu's army is now less than 100,000 strong. If the stronghold attacks now, we will surely achieve a great victory."

Zhang Yang, however, did not want to defeat Gao Qiu too quickly, lest it attract elite troops from the northwest and allow Fang La to grow stronger, thus greatly increasing his workload in unifying the Central Plains. Hearing this, Chao Gai said, "You have just taken command of the troops, and the soldiers are unfamiliar with their roles. Gao Qiu's forces are all elite troops; how can we easily deploy them? I have heard that many powerful local lords have gathered local militias to oppress the people. Perhaps we should use them to train our troops first. Dai Zong, you can spread the word that all the local militias in Shandong should disband within half a month, otherwise, the stronghold will march on the city walls."

Dai Zong accepted the order and went to make the arrangements, while Chao Gai and the others had no choice but to return to train their troops.

Upon receiving the message from Liangshan, local strongmen disbanded their militias.

However, Zengtou City in Lingzhou, a notorious den of iniquity, harbored over five thousand soldiers who secretly sent men to plunder. Upon receiving Liangshan's notification, the patriarch, Zeng Changzhe, hastily summoned his five sons and his tutors, Shi Wengong and Su Ding, to discuss the matter.

Shi Wengong said, "This is a golden opportunity. We need not heed Liangshan's announcement. Although Liangshan is powerful, with Grand Marshal Gao's army lurking nearby, they will surely not dare to send a large force to attack. If they send a small force, we can capture a few of their leaders and present them to Grand Marshal Gao. We will surely receive rewards, and we will no longer need to risk plundering merchants."

The five Zeng sons echoed his sentiments.

Seeing this, Zeng Changzhe also decided to resist Liangshan.

Fearing that Liangshan might not attack, they set up over fifty trap carts in front of the city and spread rumors that they would capture all the Liangshan leaders.

Liangshan scouts learned of this and quickly reported back to their stronghold.

Upon hearing the news, Zhang Yang summoned all the leaders and said, "Zengtou City in Lingzhou has a history of plundering the people. After receiving the notice from the stronghold, instead of disbanding its troops, it spread rumors that it would capture all the leaders of Liangshan. This is intolerable! Who is willing to lead troops to destroy this city?" As

soon as he finished speaking, Chao Gai stood up and said, "I am willing to lead the troops down the mountain."

Zhang Yang was startled to see that Chao Gai was the first to volunteer. In the Water Margin, Chao Gai died from a poisoned arrow by Shi Wengong of Zengtou City. If he were to go, there was a risk of heavy losses.

Seeing Zhang Yang hesitate, Chao Gai added, "If the chieftain is not at ease, I am willing to sign a military pledge: if I fail to conquer Zengtou City, you may cut off my head.

" Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang did not want to send anyone else and said, "No need. You will be the commander, and Hua Rong's cavalry will assist you. However, Shi Wengong's martial arts are no less than Lin Chong's and the others, and he is accustomed to using poisoned arrows. You must all be careful." Seeing Zhang

Yang's serious instructions, Chao Gai secretly took them to heart.

The next day, Chao Gai led his army to Lingzhou.

Zhang Yang also gave Wu Song an antidote, instructing him to go down the mountain and keep an eye on Chao Gai's army to prevent Chao Gai from being killed.

Chao Gai led his army to Zengtou City and set up camp.

The next day, he and several leaders, including Hua Rong, came to check on Zengtou City.

Zengtou City had already been scouted by the Liangshan troops, and several people took turns guarding the village entrance. At this time, Zeng Kui, the fourth son of the Zeng family, and Zeng Sheng, the fifth son, were on duty. When the two saw the Liangshan leaders coming to check on them, they discussed briefly and then led their troops out to arrest people.

Zeng Kui led his troops out of the village and shouted loudly: "You Liangshan bandits! I was just coming to arrest you and hand you over to the authorities for a reward, and now heaven has granted me this opportunity! Why don't you dismount and surrender, or what are you waiting for!" "

Upon hearing this, Suo Chao flew into a rage and spurred his horse to attack Zeng Kui.

The two fought for over thirty rounds, and Zeng Kui gradually felt his strength waning. He struggled to break free from Suo Chao and turned his horse to flee.

However, Hua Rong had already drawn his bow and arrow. Seeing Zeng Kui trying to escape, he aimed at Zeng Kui's back and shot. The bowstring twanged, and Zeng Kui fell from his horse.

Suo Chao rushed forward again and took Zeng Kui's head.

Zeng Sheng, seeing his brother's head separated from his body, hurriedly spurred his horse to grab his brother's head.

However, Hua Rong shot another arrow, hitting him squarely in the face, and he fell from his horse.

The soldiers of Zengtou City, who were only used to plundering merchants, swarmed into the village when they saw their commander killed.

Seeing this, Suo Chao also took Zeng Sheng's head, rode back, and laughed, "It seems the chieftain was too cautious. How can such soldiers stand against my stronghold?"

Chao Gai, having witnessed Zhang Yang's miraculous prophecy, said upon hearing this, "The man the chief speaks of must be formidable. Let us return to rest and lead our troops to challenge him again this afternoon." Just

as the group rode back to camp, they saw the Zengtou City troops arrayed outside.

Chao Gai also led his army out of the camp, and they had just finished setting up their formation

when Zeng Tu, the eldest son of the Zeng family, rode out and shouted, "The thief who shot the arrow earlier, dare you come out and fight me?"

Hua Rong, seeing him challenge him by name, was not to be outdone. He spurred his horse forward and said, "I was merely giving you a warning. If you don't disband your troops soon, your entire family may be in danger." Upon hearing this

, Zeng Tu flew into a rage and

charged at Hua Rong with his spear. Hua Rong met Zeng Tu's attack with his own spear.

The two horses clashed, and they exchanged twenty or thirty blows.

Seeing that Zeng Tu was unable to gain the upper hand quickly, Shi Wengong secretly took out his bow and arrow. When the two horses were close together and Hua Rong's back was turned, he aimed at Hua Rong's back and shot.

Hua Rong, however, was a skilled archer. Hearing the bowstring twang, he hid in his stirrup, caught the arrow with a flick of his wrist, and then, in a swift motion, took out his bow and fired another arrow, striking Zeng Tu squarely in the right arm.

Zeng Mi and Zeng Suo, seeing this, rushed to seize Zeng Tu.

Chao Gai, seeing Hua Rong's victory, also led his troops in.

The charge of five thousand cavalrymen was something that ordinary bandits dared not confront head-on. Shi Wengong saw his men... The men and horses fled in disarray, no longer daring to fight. He aimed an arrow at Chao Gai, who was charging ahead, and then

fled in panic. Chao Gai, caught off guard by this arrow, tried to dodge, but it struck him in the face, causing him to fall from his horse. Fortunately, his personal guards pulled him up, saving him from being trampled by a thousand horses.

The other leaders, unaware of the danger, rushed into Zengtou City and razed the Zeng residence before learning that their commander had been shot. When they came to see Chao Gai, the arrow was right in his cheek; they quickly pulled it out, but he fainted. Looking at the arrow, they saw the words "Shi Wengong" on it—it was a poisoned arrow. Chao Gai, poisoned, was unable to speak.

Just as Hua Rong was about to send someone back to the stronghold, Wu Song entered and hurriedly asked, "Why have you come down the mountain too?"

Wu Song replied, "The chieftain was afraid something might happen to Chief Chao Gai, so he specially ordered me to secretly rescue him. " After saying this

, he took out the antidote given to him by Zhang Yang and, as Zhang Yang had instructed, pressed it on Chao Gai's arm. It immediately absorbed into Chao Gai's body, and Chao Gai's breathing became more even.

Seeing the object in Wu Song's hand penetrate Chao Gai's skin, the crowd exclaimed in surprise, "What is this? We've never heard of it before!"

Wu Song replied, "The chieftain said this is no ordinary thing; it can delay the onset of poisons. There are only a few chieftains available. Chief Chao is still not cured and must be sent back to the stronghold for further treatment by a renowned doctor." Upon hearing this, Hua

Rong and the others felt even greater awe for Zhang Yang. Hua Rong sent men to escort Chao Gai back to the mountain with Wu Song. The army tallied their spoils; Zeng Mi, Zeng Suo, and Su Ding had all died in the chaos, while Zeng Tu was trampled to pieces. Only Shi Wengong escaped. The group searched for him for half a day but couldn't find him, so they had no choice but to gather their supplies and head towards the mountain stronghold.

(
Chapter 82: The Flower Stone Disaster )

While carefully escorting Chao Gai back to the mountain, Wu Song first sent a messenger to report to Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang was shocked to hear that Chao Gai had been shot with an arrow. He summoned Dai Zong and Zhang Shun, saying, "Chao Gai has unfortunately been hit by a poisoned arrow. I'm afraid the mountain stronghold's doctors are ineffective. I've heard there's a miraculous doctor named An Daoquan in Jiankang Prefecture, Jiangnan, who can cure diseases instantly. Brother Zhang Shun, do you know him?"

Zhang Shun, who had never mentioned An Daoquan before, was surprised to hear this and said, "When I was at Xunyang River, my mother suffered from a back ailment that no medicine could cure. It was only after I asked him that she was cured. Since then, whenever I have some silver, I send it to him, and that's how we became acquainted." Zhang

Yang said, "That's good. I've prepared gold and silver; you two can take it and go to Jiankang Prefecture to ask him to treat Brother Chao Gai. Don't delay."

Hearing this, the two took their bundles and rode hawks south of the Yangtze River.

Upon reaching the outskirts of Jiankang Prefecture, they found a desolate spot to land. Zhang Shun took the gold and silver and went into the city to search for the man. An Daoquan, seeing the large amount of gold and silver and since Zhang Shun hadn't explicitly stated he was going to Liangshan, didn't refuse. Outside the city, seeing the two giant hawks beside Dai Zong, and remembering the Liangshan bandit "Divine Eagle Protector" wanted by the court, exclaimed in surprise, "You don't mean to invite me to Liangshan, do you?" Zhang Shun said, "

I concealed much earlier, please forgive me, brother."

Although An Daoquan was reluctant to go, seeing Dai Zong carrying a sword and spear, he had no choice but to say, "I've long heard that Liangshan is acting on behalf of Heaven. Brother, you can speak frankly. How shall we proceed?"

Zhang Shun said to Dai Zong, "Chief Chao Gai's life is likely in danger. You and the Divine Physician should return by falcon. I will return to the mountain on my own."

Dai Zong, knowing the urgency of the situation, said, "Then brother, please be careful on your journey. I will set off with the Divine Physician."

Zhang Shun nodded, watching the two ride away on their falcons before heading towards the riverbank.

Upon arriving at the riverbank, he waited for half a day but saw no ferry. As darkness approached, Zhang Shun decided to find lodging first. After walking a few steps, he vaguely saw a wine banner in the woods. Turning into the woods, he discovered it was a village inn.

Zhang Shun entered the inn, found a clean seat, and sat down. An old man came out and said, "Sir, please forgive me, we're out of food and drink. If you want some, you'll have to find somewhere else."

Zhang Shun pleaded, "I'm from out of town and unfamiliar with the area. Could you please go to a nearby village and find some food and drink? I'll give you extra money tomorrow."

The old man said, "That's difficult. The official ships transporting the precious stones just passed by, and the officials ransacked the nearby villages. Even with money, it's hard to buy anything. If you're not picky, sir, I have some steamed buns that might fill your stomach."

Zhang Shun said, "No problem, bring them here. I'll pay you later."

The old man brought the steamed buns, and since there was nothing else in the inn, he sat down and chatted with Zhang Shun.

Zhang Shun had previously fled from the Yangtze River to the Xunyang River to escape the precious stones transport.

Because the transport route was difficult to navigate, it required manual labor, thus conscripting a large number of people from the riverside. The common people, having performed their labor service, had to provide their own provisions. Regardless of the scorching heat, rain, snow, or frost, they had to grit their teeth and endure the hardships, struggling forward. Any slight disagreement would result in brutal beatings by the officials. The escorting officials, relying on their power, swaggered around, receiving lavish hospitality from local officials everywhere they went, indulging in their pleasures. The laborers, meanwhile, could only sleep in the fields, exposed to the sun and dew, suffering from the harshness of heat, cold, wind, and frost. Those with weaker constitutions often succumbed to the rigors of the journey, hence the people avoided them like the plague.

Hearing the old man mention the tribute of rare stones, Zhang Shun asked, "How often do the official ships that escort the tribute of rare stones make their journeys?"

The old man replied, "There's no set schedule. Whenever an official takes a fancy to a rare stone, it will be transported to Tokyo. Every time it goes, the people along the river suffer a disaster."

Zhang Shun asked, "Then why don't you go somewhere else to hide?"

The old man said, "Now the situation is like this in the south, and I have no relatives or friends to rely on in the north. I have no possessions, and if I go elsewhere, I'll most likely die far from home. That's why I'm stuck here."

As the two were talking, a lean young man jumped in.

Seeing that his clothes were still wet, the old man scolded him, "I told you to hide from the officials, but you ran off to play in the water! If you were caught, how would I survive?"

The young man replied, "I've mastered the water; how could I be caught? Today I saw a pair of giant eagles fly by; they must be Dai Zong, the Divine Eagle Protector of Liangshan. I regret not having the chance to meet him; otherwise

, I would have followed him to Liangshan to uphold justice." Upon hearing this, Zhang Shun asked, "Have you heard of Liangshan?"

The young man glanced at Zhang Shun, thought for a moment, then turned and bowed, saying, "Brother Zhang Shun, please accept my bow."

Zhang Shun helped the young man up and asked in surprise, "How do you recognize me?"

The young man said, "My surname is Wang, and I'm the sixth in my family. Because I'm fast, people call me 'Living Flash Wang Dingliu.' I've

always been a waterman." "Great! I've studied under many masters, but never received any instruction. I've seen you on the river before, brother, but never paid you a visit. Although we haven't met in recent years, your appearance hasn't changed much, so I recognize you."

Zhang Shun laughed, "I arrived at Xunyang River several years ago, and then Liangshan last year. I didn't expect anyone on this great river to recognize me."

Upon hearing this, Wang Dingliu was even more delighted, saying, "So you've also gone to Liangshan, brother. I've been wanting to join you too. Please give me a tour."

Zhang Shun said, "It's fate that we meet. The stronghold is expanding its navy. If you're good at swimming, brother, you could become a leader with me."

Wang Dingliu said, "Although I dare not compare myself to you, brother, I've been underwater for quite some time."

The Liangshan cavalry and infantry were constantly expanding, and although the navy was being replenished, it was never at full strength, and the leaders all lacked manpower. Zhang Shun was also looking to recruit some suitable subordinates, and upon hearing this, he was overjoyed. He then told Wang Dingliu some fantastical tales, which made Wang Dingliu unable to sleep all night.

The next day, Wang Dingliu, along with his elderly father, followed Zhang Yang to Liangshan.

The three arrived at the riverbank and waited for a long time before a small boat approached.

Wang Dingliu called the boat to the shore and recognized the two as Zhang Wang, the River-Catching Demon, and Sun Wu, the Oil-Eel, who were known for robbing people on the river. He said to Zhang Shun, "These two are also good swimmers. After my brother left, they've dominated this section of the river."

Hearing this, Zhang Shun also considered recruiting them.

Zhang Wang and his companion often frequented the Wang family's inn. Upon reaching the nearby shore and recognizing Wang Dingliu, they said, "I thought you were here on business, but it turns out you're brothers."

Wang Dingliu replied, "I'm about to cross the river; I'll have to trouble you two brothers to see me off."

Zhang Wang helped the three onto the boat and asked, "Where are you going, brothers?"

Seeing Zhang Shun nod, Wang Dingliu said, "This is Brother Zhang Shun, the White Streak in the Waves. He's already a leader at Liangshan, and I'm going with him."

Hearing this, Zhang Wang exchanged a glance with Sun Wu, then they both bowed down, saying, "If you don't despise our poverty, brothers, we are willing to serve you."

Zhang Shun helped them up, offered a few words of encouragement, and, learning that they had no families, led the four back to Liangshan.

Chapter 83: Gao Qiu's First Battle

. Dai Zong and An Daoquan rode hawks directly to Liangshan, not daring to delay along the way.

Zhang Yang and his leaders greeted the two men. After a brief exchange of pleasantries, they went directly to Chao Gai's bedside. Looking at Chao Gai, they saw his face had turned somewhat black, and the effects of the antidote were almost worn off.

An Daoquan first checked his pulse and said, "Chief Chao has indeed been poisoned with a deadly toxin, but fortunately, the medicine has suppressed it, and it hasn't penetrated deep into the bone. I'm not exaggerating, but he should recover within five days."

Zhang Yang had already consulted several doctors in the mountain stronghold, but they were all helpless. Hearing An Daoquan's confidence, he quickly said, "Then we'll leave everything to you, sir."

An Daoquan said, "It's nothing. Please, everyone, go out first; I need to use acupuncture to drain the poison."

Hearing this, Zhang Yang quickly led everyone out of the room.

An Daoquan immediately began acupuncture to drain the poison. Soon, Chao Gai's eyelids twitched. Seeing this, An Daoquan called everyone back in.

Zhang Yang and his men entered the room and saw that Chao Gai had awakened. They couldn't help but praise An Daoquan's medical skills.

When Chao Gai saw Zhang Yang enter, he tried to get up.

Zhang Yang pressed him down, saying, "You're still weak, lie down and talk."

Seeing Zhang Yang's kindness, Chao Gai felt ashamed and said, "The chieftain gave instructions, but I was still shot by an arrow."

Zhang Yang said, "That Shi Wengong is treacherous and vicious, impossible to guard against. Don't worry about him. I will avenge you someday."

He then turned to An Daoquan and asked, "Is Brother Chao alright?"

An Daoquan replied, "Chief Chao has expelled most of the toxins. With the help of medicine, the remaining poison will be cleared in a few days."

Hearing this, Zhang Yang thanked An Daoquan again, exchanged a few words with Chao Gai, and then they all went to their respective camps.

Under An Daoquan's treatment, Chao Gai recovered his strength and appetite in a few days.

A few days later, Zhang Shun led Wang Dingliu and three others back to the mountain to visit Zhang Yang and recount the calamity of the Flower and Stone Tribute.

Zhang Yang sighed a few times and then arranged for the men to work under Zhang Shun.

Meanwhile, in the imperial court, Wang Fu and Cai Jing had been locked in a power struggle for some time. Unable to defeat Cai Jing alone, Wang Fu used his military power in Beijing as leverage, enlisting Tong Guan's help to achieve a minor victory. Cai Jing's cronies were then promoted in name only, their positions effectively demoted. Liang Zhongshu was promoted to Shandong Military Commissioner, and his troops were rotated to Shandong to assist Gao Qiu. Also affected were 20,000 troops from Gongzhou in the east

. By mid-July, with the arrival of troops from both regions, Wang Qing of Huaixi and Tian Hu of Hedong took advantage of the weakened defenses to launch a large-scale attack on cities and territories. Although memorials from various regions poured in like snowflakes, Wang Fu suppressed them all. Emperor Huizong, unaware of the chaos that had gripped the empire, continued his daily revelry.

Gao Qiu, having received another 50,000 reinforcements, was greatly encouraged. With Wang Fu urging him on several times, he summoned his generals and said, "Now our army is large and well-equipped, ready to decisively defeat the rebels. However, the rebels likely already know our previous strategy. What other plans do you have?"

Naval Commander Liu Menglong said, "Since the rebels are already prepared, we should divide our forces into two groups and attack their stronghold from both land and water. If the rebels divide their forces to defend their stronghold, their land strength will be greatly reduced, allowing us to defeat them first on land. Otherwise, the navy can also destroy their stronghold."

Liang Zhongshu also... Gao Qiu said, "A true king's army does not rely on treacherous schemes or tricks for victory. Besides, Your Excellency has many elite troops and strong generals under your command; you can easily defeat the enemy in a direct confrontation. Why would you need any strategy?"

Han Cunbao, the military governor of Yunzhong and Yanmen, hurriedly said, "The Liangshan bandits are not just wild mountain brigands. Many of them are intelligent and brave. Only with a good plan can we achieve success."

Gao Qiu nodded upon hearing this and said, "I have my own plan. Tomorrow, we can divide our forces into two routes, advancing simultaneously by land and water. The day after tomorrow, we will attack Liangshan together, and the bandits will inevitably be overwhelmed."

The next day, the three armies set off together. Gao Qiu also sent Niu Bangxi to assist Liu Menglong in the navy, while Liang Zhongshu was appointed as the vanguard in the land forces.

Zhang Yang scouted out the government troops and did not intercept them.

After passing Linlang Mountain, Gao Qiu set up camp to rest. To prevent repeating Tong Guan's mistake, Gao Qiu ordered each camp to be surrounded by spears and swords, with deer antlers hidden on all sides, and pits dug on three sides.

Nothing was said that night. The next day, Gao Qiu led his entire army towards Liangshan. Liang Zhongshu led the Beijing Imperial Guards as the vanguard, Wang Wende and Yang Wen as the left wing, Han Cunbao and Li Congji as the right wing, Xiang Yuanzhen and Jing Zhong as the rearguard, and Gao Qiu himself led 20,000 Imperial Guards and troops from Gongzhou as the central army.

After marching more than twenty li, they discovered that the Liangshan army was blocking their path.

Upon hearing the report, Gao Qiu quickly ordered his army to form a single file and then slowly approach. When the Liangshan army appeared on the horizon, the strengths and weaknesses of each army became apparent. The Beijing, Gongzhou, and Dongjing Imperial Guards clearly lacked combat experience; seeing the massive army ahead, their steps faltered, and their formation became somewhat disorganized.

Fortunately, Zhang Yang's aim was to train his troops, and he did not launch a full-scale attack.

Gao Qiu led his army to within two li of the Liangshan lines before finally establishing his position.

Having just joined Zhang Yang, Suo Chao was eager to show off his skills. He rode up to Zhang Yang and said, "This humble general is willing to lead the charge."

Zhang Yang, knowing Suo Chao's superior martial arts, ordered him to fight.

Suo Chao rode out, shouting, "Who dares to fight? Come out and speak!"

Liang Zhongshu, seeing the Liangshan army's tight formation, was surprised. But seeing Suo Chao enter the fray, he rebuked Li Cheng, who was standing nearby, "This general was originally your subordinate, but he has betrayed us and joined the bandits. Go and bring me his head, or you won't be coming back."

Li Cheng knew Suo Chao's martial arts were superior to his own, but he had no choice but to bite the bullet and ask Gao Qiu for permission to fight.

Gao Qiu, of course, had no reason to refuse, and immediately ordered the drums and gongs to sound three rounds of battle.

Li Cheng rode out from under the banners, and both armies shouted in unison. As they approached, Li Cheng reined in his horse and shouted, "You eat the emperor's food, how can you betray us and join the traitors? If you have no other choice, speak of it."

Suo Chao replied, "The emperor is incompetent, and treacherous officials are in power. How can we aid and abet evil?"

Li Cheng continued, "The imperial army has arrived, and Liangshan is about to be destroyed. If you are willing to lay down your weapons and surrender, I might spare your life out of consideration for our past relationship. Otherwise, you will be reduced to dust, and it will be too late for regrets."

Suo Chao did not want to fight Li Cheng, and upon hearing this, he said, "Tong Guan also led an army of 100,000 to attack before, and in one battle, not a single soldier was left alive. If you, General, are wise enough to surrender, I can guarantee you a leadership position in the stronghold."

Li Cheng was about to say more when he heard the war drums of the rear suddenly become rapid. He knew that Gao Qiu was impatient and hurriedly spurred his horse to attack Suo Chao.

Seeing this, Suo Chao had no choice but to raise his axe to meet the attack.

After fighting for thirty or forty rounds, Li Cheng's spear technique became chaotic.

Seeing his general on the verge of defeat, Gao Qiu hurriedly asked, "Who dares to come out and capture this scoundrel?"

Shi Wengong, who had escaped from Zengtou City that day and had then joined Gao Qiu, immediately replied, "This humble general is willing to go. Please grant me your command."

Gao Qiu had also tested Shi Wengong and nodded, saying, "Do not diminish the morale of our army."

Shi Wengong spurred his horse forward, ready to fight two against one.

Chao Gai, seeing Shi Wengong on the battlefield, was filled with rage at the sight of his sworn enemy. Without seeking permission or making a scene, he charged forward to meet Shi Wengong.

The two clashed fiercely, and Shi Wengong felt a sharp pain in his hand, realizing Chao Gai's strength. He then unleashed his halberd techniques. His moves were like those of a venomous snake, swift and relentless, striking wherever Chao Gai could not defend. Before Chao Gai could block, he would attack elsewhere.

Although Chao Gai possessed superhuman strength, his staff skills were mediocre. After a few exchanges, sweat beaded on his forehead.

Zhang Yang, knowing Chao Gai was doomed, ordered Guan Sheng to fight.

Gao Qiu also sent a general, but Guan Sheng, on his fast horse, intercepted Shi Wengong first. Chao Gai, knowing he was no match for Shi Wengong, also went to intercept the general.

Shi Wengong fought Guan Sheng for over ten rounds, but seeing his superb swordsmanship, he knew he couldn't win quickly. He forced Guan Sheng to retreat to his own lines.

Guan Sheng, seeing that Shi Wengong's martial arts were no less than his own, and although he sensed the strangeness of Shi Wengong's retreat, his skill and courage were too great, so he immediately spurred his horse to give chase.

Hearing Guan Sheng approaching, Shi Wengong secretly took out his bow and arrow, and was about to shoot when his horse neighed and fell. Knowing that once he fell, he would be pinned to the ground and at the mercy of his opponent, Shi Wengong didn't bother to fire his arrow and leaped to the side. Unexpectedly, Guan Sheng's horse was fast, and just as he regained his footing, Guan Sheng sliced off his head with a single stroke.

Zhang Yang, fearing that Shi Wengong would wound Guan Sheng again with a poisoned arrow, shot an arrow at Guan Sheng's horse.

Although Suo Chao didn't want to make things difficult for his former superior, seeing the credit stolen, he roared and swept Li Cheng off his horse.

Gao Qiu, seeing two generals had lost, dispatched several more.

Zhang Yang then sent out generals like Lin Chong and Huyan Zhuo, and soon the government troops were defeated by the Liangshan leaders.

Seeing that his generals couldn't defeat Liangshan, Gao Qiu

led his army to attack. Zhang Yang commanded his troops in a chaotic battle for a while, then sounded the retreat. Although the generals were puzzled, they could only protect their troops and retreat towards their camp.

Gao Qiu, seeing the Liangshan army begin to retreat, was overjoyed and quickly ordered his central army to join the pursuit.

Reaching the outskirts of the camp, the government troops finally stopped their pursuit under a hail of arrows from the city walls.

Chapter 84 The Grand Plan for the World

It is said that Liu Menglong and Niu Bangxi led their naval forces, sailing to the vicinity of Liangshan Marsh. They found it a vast expanse of reeds and rushes, with only narrow waterways a few feet wide in between.

Entering the waterways, they discovered the paths were quite complex, and the lush reeds on both sides further obstructed their view. These sailors, all raised in large rivers and quite adept swimmers, had never seen waterways like this before. Normally, they might have enjoyed playing in the water, perhaps even reciting lines of poetry about secluded paths, but after Zhang Yang deliberately spread the news of Liangshan's victories, the reeds seemed to weigh heavily on their hearts, making them feel oppressed and only wanting to escape the reed marshes as quickly as possible.

Seeing the fear in his soldiers, Liu Menglong had no choice but to lead his army quickly towards Liangshan. The 15,000-strong naval force stretched for over ten miles across the water.

As they marched, a cannon boomed from the mountain, and small boats sprang forth from all directions. The soldiers on the official ships were initially frightened, seeing the small boats hidden in the reeds breaking through their ranks! With no one to support them, most of the government troops panicked and abandoned their ships before even engaging in battle.

Seeing the government troops in disarray, Li Jun ordered his navy to charge forward.

Liu Menglong and Niu Bangxi, seeing this, hurriedly returned to their boats, only to find the shallow harbor they had passed through blocked by small boats filled with firewood and straw, making it impossible to row.

Seeing the deafening battle cries from the reeds, the soldiers, unaware of the number of Liangshan heroes lying in ambush, abandoned their boats and fled into the water.

Liu Menglong, unable to stop his soldiers and seeing the Liangshan navy already approaching, had no choice but to remove his armor, climb over the bank, and escape via a side path.

Niu Bangxi, however, was not a strong swimmer. He quickly grabbed two soldiers who were about to jump into the water, saying, "If you help me escape, I will definitely repay you handsomely when we get back."

The two men, hearing this, discussed it briefly and then rowed towards a deeper part of the harbor, hoping to escape the Liangshan navy's encirclement.

Before they had gone two li, they saw three small boats blocking their way. On board were Ruan Xiaoer and several men, lying in wait. Seeing a large fish approaching, Ruan Xiaoer led his men closer to the boats.

The two boatmen, seeing this, no longer cared about Niu Bangxi and jumped into the water with two splashes.

Niu Bangxi, holding a steel knife, stood on the bow, ready to fight Ruan Xiaoer.

Ruan Xiaoer also jumped into the water, while the other soldiers, each wielding swords and spears, closed in.

Just as Niu Bangxi was about to fight the Liangshan soldiers, he felt the boat sway beneath his feet and was thrown into the water. Before Niu Bangxi could struggle, Ruan Xiaoer grabbed his feet and dragged him into the water. Before long, Niu Bangxi was so overfed that his eyes rolled back and his belly swelled up like a drum.

Seeing that Niu Bangxi had no strength left to struggle, Ruan Xiaoer helped him onto the boat and headed straight for the main camp to report their victory.

Zhang Yang and the other leaders, after Gao Qiu's army had retreated, also came to the main camp to discuss matters.

The naval leaders reported their battle results, and Ruan Xiaoer brought Niu Bangxi over.

Niu Bangxi, however, was a sycophant. Upon entering the room and seeing so many heroes, he was terrified. His knees buckled, and he knelt down, pleading, "I am willing to submit to Your Majesty, please spare my life."

Seeing his servile demeanor, the others felt contempt.

Zhang Yang said, "I don't need someone like you here. Go back and tell Gao Qiu that Liangshan only wants his dog's head."

Hearing that he could return, Niu Bangxi hurriedly said, "I will definitely deliver Your Majesty's message."

Knowing that many people had doubts, Zhang Yang immediately ordered Niu Bangxi to be driven down the mountain.

Sure enough, as soon as Niu Bangxi left the hall, Dong Ping said, "The Imperial Guards of Beijing have begun to crumble today, and they are about to break through the government troops' formation. Why does the chieftain sound the retreat?"

Zhang Yang replied, "Our stronghold has many soldiers and generals; defeating Gao Qiu's army is a piece of cake. Today's battle is merely for training. Everyone should go back and reflect on your own performance today."

Hearing this, everyone had no choice but to disperse.

Only Zhang Yang, Wu Yong, and Zong Ze remained in the hall.

Zong Ze said, "The various armies did not linger in battle upon hearing of the Jin, but their retreats varied greatly. Guan Sheng, Huyan Zhuo, Wang Huan, and Xu Jing's troops retreated in an orderly manner with relatively few casualties, while Chao Gai's troops attacked aggressively but retreated without any strategy. It seems they still need training to become elite forces."

Zhang Yang said, "Indeed, but time is limited, so we can only let them hone their skills on the battlefield."

Wu Yong laughed, "If Gao Qiu knew he was being used as a sparring partner, he would surely flee in disarray."

Zhang Yang said, "Although the mountain stronghold troops are considered elite within the country, the outcome of a battle against Liao and Jin is unpredictable. Therefore, each army must..." "With composure in both advance and retreat, one can achieve merit on the frontier in the future."

Zong Ze said thoughtfully, "Chief, have you decided to raise an army?"

Zhang Yang said, "The Jin Kingdom has already conquered the Liao Kingdom's capital, Tokyo, and most of its territory, while the current emperor has no interest in governing. Within three months, an uprising will inevitably break out in Jiangnan, and then the Central Plains will become a battleground. Currently, only our stronghold can quickly unify the world and resist the Jin Kingdom. Does the strategist have any other choice?"

Upon hearing this, Wu Yong couldn't help but say happily, "Chief, what you say is very true. Are kings and generals born with special privileges? Our stronghold has a strong army and horses; we can seize the opportunity to rise up."

Zong Ze sighed and said, "Currently..." The emperor is indeed disappointing, and with powerful states eyeing us from all sides, we may have no choice but to establish a new dynasty.”

Zhang Yang was secretly pleased to see Zong Ze finally agree to the uprising, and laughed, “Jiangnan is the heart of the nation’s wealth. Once the uprising in Jiangnan expands, the court will surely mobilize elite troops from the northwest to quell the rebellion. Last time Tong Guan attacked, he drew all the imperial guards around Tokyo, and then kept it a secret from the emperor, so they haven’t been able to replenish them yet. Once the elite troops from the northwest and the rebels in Jiangnan are both exhausted, our stronghold can directly attack Tokyo and the surrounding areas. Moreover, the local militias in Shandong have been eliminated, and with the cooperation of internal forces in various prefectures, we can take them down in a short time. In less than a month…” "Then the mountain stronghold's momentum will surpass all others. With its elite troops and

strong generals, sweeping across the world will be just around the corner ." Zong Ze said, "The city of Dongjing is high and the river is deep, and it is guarded by 80,000 imperial guards. I'm afraid it won't be able to be taken in a short time. If the armies from all sides come to the aid of the emperor, I'm afraid

the mountain stronghold will be in dire straits." Zhang Yang laughed and said, "The imperial guards of Dongjing are nothing but empty shells. I already have a way to break through the city walls. Now the mountain stronghold just needs to train its troops. Once the mountain stronghold's troops are trained, the uprising in Jiangnan will break out. Starting tomorrow, you should all pay attention to the performance of each army in battle. They are the main force to sweep across the world in the future."

The three discussed some details and then dispersed.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Tomorrow there are many classes, evening.

Chapter 85 Recruiting Elite Troops

Gao Qiu withdrew his troops outside the Liangshan camp and waited for half a day. He saw that the navy had fled from the moor in twos and threes. He realized that the navy had been defeated. Seeing that the walls of the Liangshan camp were high, he had no choice but to withdraw his troops back to camp.

Upon returning to the camp, Gao Qiu tallied the losses of his cavalry and infantry. While the casualties were not significant, the navy had suffered heavy losses, with not a single warship returning. Liu Menglong had managed to escape, but Gao Qiu's trusted confidant, Niu Bangxi, was missing. The soldiers who had fled quickly returned, while those who had been slower were taken prisoner.

After hearing the reports, Gao Qiu said, "Now that the navy has lost its ships, how can we defeat the bandits?"

Although Liang Zhongshu had lost his subordinate Li Cheng, seeing his army's initial victory, any remaining fear of Liangshan completely vanished. He immediately said, "The bandits are easily defeated; why bother with a navy? Your Excellency can order all troops to rush to make siege equipment overnight. Tomorrow, when the entire army rises, we will surely capture the bandits' outer camp. Having lost most of their forces, the bandits will surely flee in panic; how could they dare to defend their mountain stronghold to the death?"

Han Cunbao said, "The bandits' retreat today is somewhat suspicious; I'm afraid they have some kind of trick up their sleeve."

Xiang Yuanzhen also said, "The bandits' troops are not weaker than ours. If they hadn't suddenly retreated today, I'm afraid our army wouldn't have gained any advantage. Moreover, the bandits' casualties are not great; our army still needs to be wary of a night attack."

Upon hearing this, Gao Qiu thought about how Liang Zhongshu's troops were already somewhat

exhausted today, and he was just about to send reinforcements when Liangshan suddenly withdrew. He also felt something was amiss and was about to speak when a report came from outside the tent that Niu Bangxi had returned. Gao Qiu ordered him to come in, only to see that Niu Bangxi's face was covered in blood, and his ears had been cut off.

It turned out that Zhang Yang had ordered his ears cut off so that he wouldn't conceal his capture.

Niu Bangxi, a confidant of Gao Qiu, knew much about his past. Seeking revenge, he knelt upon entering the tent and wept, saying, "In today's battle, I was unfortunately captured by the Liangshan bandits. I intended to die for my loyalty. However, the Liangshan leader, Zhang Yang, had my ears cut off and sent me back to deliver a message: that you, sir, are a treacherous minister who has brought ruin to the country and its people, and that you only achieved your current position by flattering the Emperor. Your enemy, Lin Chong, even said that he took your son's life before and will surely take your head this time. There were many other insults, which I dare not recount."

Niu Bangxi merely wanted to provoke Gao Qiu and avenge himself, but unexpectedly, he guessed some of the truth.

Upon hearing the news of his son's death, Gao Qiu was filled with rage, his earlier worries forgotten. He roared, "These traitors are so despicable! The Heavenly Army has arrived, yet they refuse to surrender and instead humiliate the court officials. They deserve to die! All troops, return to your camps and work through the night to manufacture siege equipment. Tomorrow we must capture the bandit leader alive and execute him by a thousand cuts to quell my hatred!"

Seeing Gao Qiu's fury, the others dared not say a word and returned to their camps to make arrangements.

Han Cunbao and his men also deployed numerous sentries, both visible and hidden, to guard against a Liangshan attack.

The night passed uneventfully. Early the next morning, Gao Qiu led his entire army to challenge the Liangshan forces.

Upon arriving at the city walls, he found 50,000 troops arrayed and waiting.

Having learned his lesson, Gao Qiu did not send generals to challenge them. After a rousing drumbeat, he ordered the six military governors—Wang Wende, Yang Wen, Han Cunbao, Li Congji, Xiang Yuanzhen, and Jing Zhong—to lead their troops in a charge.

Seeing this from the city walls, Zhang Yang personally beat the drum to order the five armies below to charge.

Chao Gai's troops then engaged in fierce fighting with the government forces. Just as the battle was reaching a stalemate, the sound of gongs rang out from the city walls again, forcing Chao Gai and his men to retreat once more. However, this retreat was clearly more covert, no longer a matter of individual escapes.

Gao Qiu, seeing this, ordered all his troops to charge together, hoping to seize the camp.

Xiang Yuanzhen followed Chao Gai into the city and, seeing the ensuing melee, hurriedly led his men towards the passageway leading to the city walls. Upon reaching the walls, they found the passageway blocked.

Just as Xiang Yuanzhen realized something was wrong, a loud crash came from the city gate; it had been blocked shut.

It turned out that Zhang Yang, seeing that Chao Gai's five armies and the six routes of military governors engaged in battle had entered the camp, had ordered the heavy gates lowered, forcibly sealing the city gates. Then a cannon fired from within the city, and tens of thousands of troops lying in ambush rushed out to besiege the government army.

Seeing that the situation within the city was under control, Zhang Yang ordered the archers on the city walls to begin their attack. A dense chorus of bowstrings filled the air. Countless arrows soared into the sky, darkening the heavens.

Gao Qiu's rear guard was instantly covered in a rain of arrows; countless soldiers fell screaming, trampled over by the horses behind them.

The Liangshan archers, however, employed a three-stage firing technique, dividing themselves into five teams that took turns firing under the command of their flags.

Thus, a continuous curtain of arrows appeared on the battlefield; anyone entering the archers' range was met with relentless attacks. Seeing their soldiers falling and the city gates blocked, the soldiers behind dared not advance further and stopped to watch.

Seeing this, Gao Qiu quickly ordered his central army archers to advance and suppress the enemy on the city walls. However, the Liangshan troops had the advantage of terrain, and their archers had a greater range than the government troops. The remaining government troops were inexperienced imperial guards from Dongjing. It took a long time for the central archers, under the cover of their shield bearers, to finally reach a position where they could threaten the city walls and begin to return fire.

Seeing that the rain of arrows on the city walls had thinned, Gao Qiu ordered his rear guard to use siege ladders to begin the assault.

But soon the ladders were completely destroyed, and the government troops, without their means of scaling the walls, had to retreat back to outside the archers' range.

Gao Qiu, hearing the fighting within the city gradually subside, grew increasingly anxious.

Liang Zhongshu, however, was somewhat timid and reported, "Our army has no siege equipment left, so we should retreat for now. I've heard that there are artillerymen in Dongjing (Kaifeng) who can attack from several miles away. Where the stone cannons land, the sky collapses, the earth caves in, and mountains crumble. Why don't you send artillerymen here, sir, to avenge this humiliation?"

Gao Qiu asked, "How will the troops inside the city be rescued?"

Liang Zhongshu replied, "Those military commanders are all former bandits; I'm afraid they've already secretly colluded with the rebels. Have you seen the four tribes that surrendered earlier? This is a perfect opportunity to eliminate an internal threat. If you send some more Imperial Guards from Dongjing, with everyone united, how can we not annihilate the rebels? If they can weaken the rebels, it will be a good opportunity for you to achieve merit. We can just make a show of force outside the city and let them fight to the death inside."

Gao Qiu was also tempted by this and immediately ordered the drummers to sound the battle cry and the soldiers to shout for battle. Seeing that they didn't have to risk their lives to attack the city, the soldiers naturally didn't hold back their shouts. For a time, the sounds of battle shook the city walls. Hearing this, the soldiers inside the city were greatly encouraged and quickly rallied to fight against the Liangshan army.

Seeing that the government troops had lost their siege equipment and posed no threat, Zhang Yang ordered Wu Song to command the archers on the city walls to exchange fire with the government troops. Looking around the city, he saw that the government troops had formed small defensive groups. He then leaped off the city wall and attacked the nearest enemy, Xiang Yuanzhen.

Hearing the renewed battle cries outside, Xiang Yuanzhen felt a glimmer of hope. However, the Liangshan army was overwhelming, and he could only slowly gather his troops to regroup the remaining soldiers. Just as he had managed to gather a few hundred remaining soldiers, a man leaped down from the city wall and charged directly at him. With a flick of his golden spear, he instantly created an opening.

Seeing Zhang Yang break through the circular formation, the Liangshan soldiers followed suit, widening the gap.

After creating the opening, Zhang Yang used his spear like a club, scattering the circular formation with a few sweeping attacks.

Seeing this, Xiang Yuanzhen quickly raised his spear to fight Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang dodged Xiang Yuanzhen's steel spear, then swiftly appeared before him, capturing him and tossing him to his soldiers. He repeated this process, capturing several more resisting generals, and the city's officials and soldiers surrendered one after another. Zhang Yang

led Xiang Yuanzhen and the others to the city wall, pointing at the bluffing officials and soldiers outside, saying, "You risk your lives here, and see how Gao Qiu will toy with you."

Xiang Yuanzhen and his men, seeing the scene outside the city, were also greatly angered.

Wang Huan and the others took the opportunity to persuade them for a while, and they all surrendered. Only

after the city quieted down did Gao Qiu lead his troops back to his camp.

Zhang Yang did not send troops to pursue them.

Chapter 86: The Death of Song Jiang.

After accepting the surrender of the six military governors' troops, Zhang Yang ordered food and drink to be transported from the mountains to appease the various armies.

Hearing the boast of the great victory over the government troops from the foot of the mountain, Song Jiang was overjoyed. After arranging for food and drink to be transported, he summoned his brother Song Qing and said, "Our opportunity has arrived. I will go down the mountain to contact Grand Commandant Gao. You and I will help Grand Commandant Gao take the stronghold, and then we will have no worries about power and influence."

Song Qing asked in surprise, "We have no troops at our disposal, how can we accomplish this?"

Song Jiang laughed and said, "Aren't you in charge of the food and drink? We'll find an excuse to invite all the leaders of the stronghold to a banquet, and then drug them with sleeping pills." "The mountain stronghold's troops are leaderless and will inevitably be unable to withstand Grand Commandant Gao's army."

Upon hearing this, Song Qing knew the chances of success were high, but then asked doubtfully, "Why didn't you consider this plan yesterday when Grand Commandant Gao was victorious? Why did you only go to join him after his defeat?"

Song Jiang shook his head and said, "When Grand Commandant Gao is triumphant, he won't look up to you and me. Only when he's in dire straits will our worth be revealed."

Song Qing said, "That's true, but Zhang Yang is a man of great talent and strategy, and he has hundreds of thousands of elite troops outside the city. Even if Grand Commandant Gao..." Even if Gao Taiwei captures the stronghold, he might not be able to defeat Zhang Yang.

Song Jiang, however, had already calculated this for a long time. Hearing this, he said, "The grain supplies outside the stronghold are not plentiful. If Zhang Yang loses the stronghold's grain supplies, even if he has extraordinary abilities, he probably won't be able to control so many fierce and ruthless men. Moreover, there are many surrendered generals among them. Perhaps Gao Taiwei won't even need to lift a finger; Zhang Yang will be captured by then. Besides, his wives and concubines are all in the stronghold. Once we control them, how could he not surrender?"

Song Qing, hearing that his brother was focusing on Zhang Yang's wife and children, hesitated, "Zhang Yang has treated us well. It might not be appropriate to use his wife and children to coerce him."

Song Jiang knew that Song Qing still had some conscience and was afraid that he would reveal a flaw. He patted Song Qing on the shoulder and said, "That's just a last resort. Besides, it won't do him any harm if we get him to serve the court. Brother, you must think it over carefully. I will arrange everything."

Song Qing knew that his brother was somewhat obsessed with power, but he didn't want to hurt their brotherly relationship, so he could only nod.

Immediately, Song Jiang used the excuse of checking the money and provisions to ask for a small boat and set sail alone. Seeing that it was getting dark, he stealthily made his way to Gao Qiu's camp.

The journey was uneventful until he reached the entrance of Gao Qiu's camp, where he was stopped by two sentries.

Seeing that the man was short and dark-skinned, the sentry said, "This is a military camp, not a place for country bumpkins like you. Go back quickly, lest you be arrested as a spy."

Song Jiang cupped his hands and said, "Please inform them, brother, that someone has brought a plan to break Liangshan."

The sentry stared at Song Jiang for a while, and seeing that he was not particularly handsome, shook his head and said, "This is no place for fools. You should go back. The shift will be changing soon, and if others see you, they will most likely arrest you as a spy."

Upon hearing this, Song Jiang hurriedly said, "Brother, please help me. I have a plan to defeat the bandits. Please inform them."

As the two were talking, a patrol officer led his soldiers over.

As the officer approached, seeing that Song Jiang was not wearing the armor of a government soldier, he shouted, "Who is that short, dark-skinned man?"

The sentry, seeing his superior arrive, disregarded Song Jiang and hurriedly replied, "He claims to have a plan to break Liangshan and wants to see the Grand Commandant."

The officer looked Song Jiang over for a while, seeing no fear in him, and said, "Come with me."

Song Jiang thanked the officer and followed him straight to the central camp. They hadn't gone far when they heard the sound of drums and music.

The officer led Song Jiang to the outside of the main tent, told him to wait a moment, and then went inside to report.

Gao Qiu and Liang Zhongshu were indulging in revelry with singing girls and dancers in the main tent when the officer reported that someone claimed to be able to break through Liangshan's main camp, so he ordered them to be invited in.

Song Jiang entered the tent and saw Gao Qiu and Liang Zhongshu drinking and partying in the camp, and he secretly despised them. But for the sake of his future, he still bowed and said, "This lowly official, Song Jiang, pays his respects to Your Excellency, the Grand Commandant."

Gao Qiu glanced at Song Jiang and asked, "What plan do you have to defeat the bandits?"

Song Jiang replied, "I was forced into banditry because I accidentally killed someone. My brother, Song Qing, is in charge of the banquet at Liangshan. We can take the opportunity to incapacitate the Liangshan bandit leaders. Your Excellency can then send troops to attack Liangshan by water. Without a leader, the bandits will surely be unable to resist."

Liang Zhongshu's troops were all cavalry and infantry, and fearing that the navy would steal the credit, they said, "The Liangshan cavalry and infantry are nothing but a rabble. They are easy to defeat. The bandits must be afraid that we will attack their camp again, so they want to trick us into attacking by water. Your Excellency can execute this man and have him sent to the Liangshan camp tomorrow, so that the bandits will also know..." "Your Excellency has discerning eyes."

Seeing Gao Qiu's interest, Song Jiang quickly said, "Zhang Yang is both intelligent and brave. His defeat this time is suspicious,

Your Excellency is wise." Upon hearing this, Liang Zhongshu shouted, "What a Liangshan bandit! He is indeed an unruly fellow. He was clearly no match for our army, so what's this talk of suspicious circumstances? Your Excellency need not listen to his nonsense. Once the artillerymen from Dongjing arrive, Liangshan can be razed to the ground. Why take such a risk? Besides, the navy has run out of ships. How can they build many ships in a few months? The situation in Dongjing is constantly changing. If we linger here, we may face criticism."

Gao Qiu only maintained his favor by spending his days entertaining the emperor. After hearing that Wang Fu and Tong Guan had both gained something from his previous request for help, he was somewhat worried about the potential loss of his power. Liang Zhongshu's words struck a nerve with Gao Qiu, who immediately shouted, "You audacious Liangshan bandit! How dare you feign surrender here! Drag him out and execute him! Send him to the Liangshan camp tomorrow to warn the other bandits!"

Song Jiang, about to protest, was rushed in by soldiers outside the tent and dragged out before he could speak. A short while later, a scream echoed from afar.

Shi Qian, who had been tasked with monitoring Song Jiang, followed him all the way to Gao Qiu's camp. He waited all night, but Song Jiang didn't emerge, so he reported to Zhang Yang at the camp. Upon

hearing that Song Jiang had gone to Gao Qiu's camp, Zhang Yang sighed. After a moment's thought, he realized Song Jiang could only plot against the mountain stronghold, so he ordered Ye Chun to be summoned.

This man was the one who helped Gao Qiu build the sea-going boat in the Water Margin. However, after Zhang Yang took control of Liangshan, he forbade anyone to plunder, so Ye Chun wasn't robbed by Liangshan, but was instead robbed clean by corrupt officials in Dongping Prefecture, which is why he joined Liangshan.

After Ye Chun joined Liangshan, he presented various warship designs, but Liangshan's limited craftsmen prevented large-scale production, a fact he always regretted.

After exchanging greetings, Zhang Yang said, "Now you have a chance to showcase your talents. Go and prepare the designs for the sea-going loach ship. When Gao Qiu recruits shipwrights, you should apply. Once the ships are built, the stronghold can seize them."

Ye Chun was overjoyed to hear that he could use his skills, and without asking further questions, he bowed and went to prepare.

Zhang Yang then said to Shi Qian, "Go to the stronghold and monitor Song Qing. After Song Jiang returns to the stronghold, send me a message." Shi Qian

accepted the order and returned to the stronghold.

Although Zhang Yang hated Song Jiang's betrayal, he also hoped he would succeed so that Gao Qiu could build warships for him, saving him from future hardship and expense.

Just then, a personal guard entered the room carrying a head, reporting, "The soldiers have brought the head of Song Jiang, along with many foul words."

Seeing Song Jiang's unseeing eyes, Zhang Yang sighed and said, "Go and deliver this to Song Qing, the leader of the stronghold. Tell him that Song Jiang has disappointed me greatly, and his position will be taken over by Zhu Fu."

The guard, upon hearing this, also carried Song Jiang's head to the stronghold.

After the guard left, Zhang Yang cursed inwardly: "So restless and incompetent! All my planning has been for nothing. It seems I'll have to figure out the warships myself." Just

as Zhang Yang was considering how to get Gao Qiu to build the ships for him, Chao Gai rushed in, filled with grief and indignation. Before Chao Gai could speak, Zhang Yang said, "Song Jiang brought this upon himself. Go ask Song Qing if he needs my troops."

Chao Gai, hearing this, was stunned and said, "Song Qing will definitely ask the chieftain to send troops."

Zhang Yang said, "Go see Song Jiang's head first." He

then picked up a military book and began to read it. Seeing that

Zhang Yang was no longer paying attention to him, Chao Gai was confused and had no choice but to go to the stronghold to ask Song Qing.

While Song Qing was arranging a banquet, he saw one of Zhang Yang's personal guards carrying in a severed head. He was startled, and upon recognizing it as his brother's head, he burst into tears.

The guard put down Song Jiang's head and said, "Chieftain, please accept my condolences. Today, Chief Song's head was thrown outside the camp gate by government troops. The chieftain said Chief Song disappointed him greatly, and your position has been taken over by Chief Zhu Fu."

Song Qing had initially thought that Zhang Yang had seen through their plan and killed his brother, but upon hearing this, he realized that his brother had died at the hands of government troops, and that Zhang Yang also knew that his brother intended to betray him. Thinking of Zhang Yang's usual courtesy to his brother, Song Qing felt even more ashamed.

Just then, Chao Gai arrived at the mountain.

Upon seeing Song Jiang's head, Chao Gai was also overcome with grief, weeping for a while. Remembering Zhang Yang's words, he asked, "Today I originally intended to lead troops to avenge your brother, but the chieftain sent me to ask for your opinion. Brother, just say one word, and I will go and ask the chieftain to send troops again."

Hearing this, Song Qing replied shamefully, "My brother brought this upon himself. I originally intended to atone with my death, but I feared my elderly father would have no one to care for him, so I had no choice but to live on. But I have no face to see the other leaders again. Therefore, I will take my father down the mountain and ask Brother Chao to convey to the chieftain that Song Qing wishes to be the chieftain's brother again in the next life."

Chao Gai was even more bewildered and wanted to ask Song Qing more questions, but Wu Yong, who had arrived, stopped him.

Song Qing bowed to Wu Yong, picked up Song Jiang's head, and led his father down the mountain.

Wu Yong also told Chao Gai about Song Jiang's betrayal. Although Chao Gai was somewhat skeptical, seeing that Wu Yong and Zhang Yang shared the same sentiment, he didn't bring up the matter of revenge again.

Chapter 87: Another Defeat Against Gao Qiu .

July was the height of summer, yet a secluded courtyard in the Liangshan stronghold was bustling with activity. Maids constantly moved about, changing the hot water.

Hearing Wen Lian's desperate cries from inside, Zhang Yang felt a sense of powerlessness for the first time. In this era of cold weapons, he could single-handedly charge into battle against thousands, but now he couldn't alleviate even the slightest pain for his beloved.

Hu Sanniang was already six months pregnant, her belly swollen high. She had only waited outside the courtyard, her belly protruding, after hearing Wen Lian's labor. Hearing Wen Lian's painful cries and knowing that she too would soon give birth, she was filled with fear. Seeing Zhang Yang's anxious expression, she slowly walked to him and softly said, "Husband, don't worry, my sister will definitely give birth safely."

Zhang Yang helped Sanniang up, noticing the worry and fear in her eyes, though she maintained a calm facade. He knew she was trying to comfort him and forced a smile, saying, "Well, it's hot. You should go back inside and rest. I'll call you after the baby is born."

Just then, a loud cry of a newborn baby came from inside the house.

Zhang Yang quickly helped Hu Sanniang inside.

The midwife, seeing Zhang Yang enter, rushed forward to boast, "Congratulations, Chief, it's a boy!"

Zhang Yang wasn't too concerned about the gender, and upon hearing this, said, "Each of you will receive ten taels of silver.

Go find Xiaoyue to collect them." Hearing the generous reward, the midwife quickly bowed and went to find the steward, Xiaoyue.

Zhang Yang walked to the bedside, looking at the exhausted Wen Lian, and felt even more pity for her. He took a towel from the maid and wiped the sweat from Wen Lian's forehead.

Wen Lian, meeting Zhang Yang's tender gaze, was also filled with contentment and smiled, "Husband, I want to see our child."

Hearing this, Zhang Yang quickly had the maid bring the baby.

Zhang Yang took the child, looking at the first person in the world who was related to him by blood, and was overjoyed. Unfortunately, his son didn't give him any face; as soon as he was in Zhang Yang's arms, he began to cry loudly.

Hearing her son cry, Wen Lian struggled to get up.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang quickly held his son in one arm and helped Wen Lian sit up against the bed with the other.

Wen Lian took the child and gently rocked him a few times, and the baby stopped crying. Although Wen Lian was usually docile, she hoped to give birth to a son who would inherit Zhang Yang's career. Looking at her adorable son, she was very satisfied and asked, "Husband, have you chosen a name for our son?"

Zhang Yang smiled and said, "Of course, this is our first child, so let's name him Zhenguo, hoping he can revitalize the country in the future."

Wen Lian was also very pleased to see that Zhang Yang had such high hopes for his son.

Seeing that Wen Lian was exhausted, Zhang Yang said, "You should rest first, we can talk again tomorrow."

Hearing this, Wen Lian reluctantly handed the child to the maid.

Zhang Yang helped Wen Lian lie down before leaving the courtyard with San Niang.

Taking advantage of Gao Qiu's need for reinforcements, Zhang Yang stayed on the mountain to chat with the six women to pass the time. A few days later, the two Qiao sisters and Zhen Shi also gave birth to Zhang Yang's third son.

Meanwhile, Wang Fu received Gao Qiu's letter requesting reinforcements and dispatched two generals from the Imperial Guard to lead troops to Gao Qiu's aid. The two men were General Qiu Yue, the Imperial Bodyguard, and General Zhou Ang, the Chariot and Cavalry General. Both were seasoned warriors, highly skilled in martial arts, and trusted confidants of Grand Commandant Gao. They had spent considerable time selecting troops in Dongjing (Kaifeng) before choosing ten thousand soldiers.

The artillerymen were led by Ling Zhen, nicknamed "Thunderbolt," a master craftsman skilled in crafting flying cannons and also a master of martial arts.

After receiving their military command certificates, the three were instructed to prepare their horses, weapons, and set off.

Within a few days, they arrived at Gao Qiu's camp. The three paid their respects to Gao Qiu in the main tent, who personally served them food and drink, offering them comfort and then sending messengers to reward the troops and entertain the three men.

During the meal, Zhou Ang requested the Grand Commandant's orders to lead his army to challenge the enemy.

Although Gao Qiu also wanted to return to the capital as soon as possible, he knew that his troops were exhausted from their long journey and could not be used any longer. Hearing this, he said, "General Zhou, please rest for a day. Tomorrow, the entire army will rise up and wipe out the bandits in one fell swoop."

Qiu Yue, Zhou Ang, and Ling Zhen replied, "We regard the Liangshan bandits as child's play.

Grand Commandant, rest assured, we will surely return to the capital in triumph." Gao Qiu said, "If you all agree, I will report to the Emperor and you will be given important positions."

The banquet ended in the evening.

The next day, Gao Qiu led his army towards the Liangshan stronghold.

Zhang Yang had also discovered that Gao Qiu's reinforcements had arrived and had already led 100,000 troops to set up battle formation in the open field.

As the two armies faced each other, Zhou Ang wanted to show off his merit. He rode up to Gao Qiu and said, "This humble general is willing to go out and take a few bandit heads to dampen their arrogance. I beg Your Majesty's permission."

Gao Qiu knew that Zhou Ang was skilled in martial arts, so he immediately ordered him to go out and fight.

Zhou Ang spurred his horse forward, shouting, "Does this bandit dare to fight me?"

Seeing that Zhou Ang was using the same weapon as him, Suo Chao spurred his horse forward, saying, "This humble general is willing to fight him to the death. Please grant me your command, Chief."

Zhang Yang trusted him and nodded, ordering him to fight.

Suo Chao received the order and charged straight at Zhou Ang.

Both wielded golden axes and were both hot-tempered; without exchanging words, they clashed. Their moves were wide and sweeping, neither willing to back down, engaging in a fierce, head-on clash. The only sound from the battlefield was the clang of metal on metal.

After more than thirty rounds, both horses were foaming at the mouth and their speed greatly reduced.

Suo Chao, caught up in the fight, reined in his horse and shouted, "Do you dare to change horses and fight again?"

Zhou Ang replied, "That's exactly what I wanted to say. Today, we must see a winner."

They spurred their horses back to their formation, changed horses, and fought for several more rounds, but no victor had yet emerged, and their horses were already showing signs of exhaustion.

The two fighters, growing impatient, shouted in unison and charged at each other.

Upon reaching him, Zhou Ang swung his axe fiercely at Suo Chao.

Suo Chao, in a desperate gamble, dodged the axe by veering off his horse, simultaneously hurling his golden axe at Zhou Ang's head.

Zhou Ang, caught off guard, tried to dodge, but the axe struck him on the head, killing him instantly.

Seeing the loss of one of his generals, Gao Qiu dared not send another and led

his army in a charge. Zhang Yang, seeing this, left no reserves, waved his signal flag, and ordered a full-scale assault. Zhang Yang himself led his personal guards, charging towards Gao Qiu's banner.

The first soldiers, about to thrust their spears, saw Zhang Yang flick his wrist, unleashing several golden flashes that felled them. After creating an opening, Zhang Yang continued his flanking maneuvers, his men unable to withstand a single blow. His personal guards were unstoppable, constantly widening the gap.

Seeing a cavalry charge towards him with unstoppable momentum, Gao Qiu hurriedly ordered Dang Shiying to lead his troops to block Zhang Yang.

Seeing a general leading his troops charging, Zhang Yang roared and wielded his spear even faster, instantly creating a clearing with a radius of over ten feet in his wake.

Seeing Zhang Yang's imposing presence, Dang Shiying dared not advance himself; he turned his horse and charged towards Zhang Yang's flank. The other soldiers naturally followed suit.

Zhang Yang, meanwhile, charged towards Gao Qiu's command flag.

Seeing this, Gao Qiu was terrified. No longer able to oversee the battle, he led Dang Shixiong and ten thousand central troops in a

hasty retreat towards the main camp. The flanks, already struggling to hold on, began to scatter upon seeing the central army flee.

Zhang Yang pursued for several miles before sounding the retreat.

Chapter 88. Using the pretense of divine intervention

, Gao Qiu led his troops back to the main camp. Fearing a Liangshan attack, he left Dang Shixiong to gather the remaining troops and fled to Jizhou. Dang Shixiong, not daring to linger, managed to gather tens of thousands of remaining soldiers and also fled to Jizhou.

Liang Zhongshu was nearly captured alive by Lin Chong, but Zhang Yang's timely withdrawal saved his life. Upon arriving in Jizhou and seeing Gao Qiu, he said, "The bandits are fierce. My general Wen Da died at their hands today, and our troops suffered heavy losses. Grand Commandant, you must bring reinforcements to annihilate the bandits."

Gao Qiu, still shaken, shook his head upon hearing this, saying, "I think so too. But last time we boasted that we could wipe out the Liangshan bandits in one battle. How can we ask for help again? Besides, there are so many censors in the capital. If we keep asking for help, and they find out, there will surely be those who are not afraid to impeach us. If we alarm the Emperor, it will not be good either. Let's see how many troops we have left."

Later that evening, Dang Shixiong reported, "Although the various units were scattered, the casualties were not great. There are still nearly 70,000 troops left."

Gao Qiu breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this and asked, "Does anyone have any other plans to defeat the bandits?"

The cavalry and infantry generals were all terrified after today's battle, and no one dared to answer.

Liu Menglong, though possessing several thousand men, had no opportunity to use them. Seeing this chance, he said, "The bandits' cavalry and infantry are fierce, but their navy is a rabble. Last time, my troops only lost because they didn't know the waterways of Liangshan. If you, sir, could build a batch of warships, I will surely be able to break through the bandits' stronghold."

Gao Qiu, seeing the evasive looks in the eyes of his cavalry and infantry generals, knew they were no match for him. Seeing that Liu Menglong dared to fight again, he had no choice but to try anything. He immediately ordered the nearby prefectures and counties to recruit shipbuilders and set up a shipyard outside Jizhou City to build warships; at the same time, he issued proclamations to recruit brave sailors and soldiers.

Zhang Yang had defeated Gao Qiu's army precisely to force him to build ships. Just as he was about to send Ye Chun to Jizhou to offer his shipbuilding plan, he heard that Gao Qiu had already begun recruiting sailors. Zhang Yang waited a few more days and then sent Ye Chun to Jizhou to present the ships.

Seeing the immense power of Ye Chun's warships, Gao Qiu immediately rewarded Ye Chun with wine, food, and clothing, and appointed him as the head of the warship construction team.

Gao Qiu also ordered his men to urge the felling of timber day and night, demanding delivery to Jizhou by a set date. All prefectures and counties in Shandong were to allocate shipbuilding materials. Those who missed the deadline by two days would be punished with forty strokes of the cane, increasing by one stroke for each day of delay; those who missed the deadline by more than five days would be executed according to military regulations. The constant pressure and urging from local officials resulted in numerous deaths among the people, and Shandong was in a state of widespread resentment.

Zhang Yang seized the opportunity to reorganize the various units and familiarize newly surrendered soldiers with Liangshan military law.

In September, he sent Wu Song to "invite" Zhao Mingcheng and his wife. Learning that they had already arrived at the harbor, Zhang Yang, along with Wu Yong and Zong Ze, personally went to Jinshatan to welcome them.

Zhao Mingcheng, who was studying epigraphy with Li Qingzhao in their hometown, was unexpectedly invited to Liangshan by Wu Song with a knife. Zhao Mingcheng's hometown was Qingzhou, so he was well aware of Liangshan's actions and wasn't overly worried about his safety. He was simply puzzled by Zhang Yang's invitation.

Seeing Liangshan in sight, Zhao Mingcheng patted Li Qingzhao, who was still lost in the reeds, and said, "Liangshan is just ahead. If Zhang Yang forces us to join the outlaws, this might be our last day together."

Li Qingzhao snapped out of her reverie, seeing her husband's resolute expression, and comforted him, "Zhang Yang of Liangshan is known for his benevolence and righteousness; he shouldn't make things difficult for us. Perhaps he has something to ask you, my husband."

Zhang Yang's eyes lit up when he saw Li Qingzhao beside Zhao Mingcheng on the boat. While her beauty wasn't breathtaking, her eyes were full of spirit. Her overall charm possessed an intellectual quality rarely seen in women of that era.

As soon as Zhao Mingcheng and his wife stepped onto the beach, Zhang Yang greeted them, saying, "I apologize for inviting you two, Mr. and Mrs. Defu."

Upon seeing Zhang Yang, Zhao Mingcheng couldn't help but say, "Chief, you seem somewhat familiar. Have we met before?"

Zhang Yang smiled and said, "You seem to have quite a memory, Mr. Defu. We met briefly at the Tai'an Prefecture temple fair this year."

Hearing this, Zhao Mingcheng thought for a moment and then smiled, "So I do owe Chief a meal. May I ask what brings you and my wife here?"

Zhang Yang smiled and said, "We have some matters to discuss. I have prepared a feast; let's go up the mountain to talk."

Seeing that they had already arrived at someone's home, Zhao Mingcheng could only say, "Then we will trouble you."

After everyone went up to the mountain stronghold, Zhang Yang had someone invite Zhang Shuye. After the feast, Zhang Yang asked Wen Lian to take Li Qingzhao to tour the stronghold.

Zhang Yang discussed the state of the world with Zhao Mingcheng and Zhang Shuye for a long time. Seeing that the two were still stubbornly unconvinced, he said, "If I said that the Song Dynasty was destined to perish, and that I was born in accordance with the will of Heaven, would you two believe me?"

Upon hearing this, Zhao Mingcheng couldn't help but laugh and said, "So, Chieftain, are you some kind of immortal descended to earth, or a reincarnated living Buddha?"

Zhang Yang smiled and said, "I wouldn't dare, but I am no ordinary person. Master Zhang is a martial artist. May I ask if my skills can be acquired through training?"

Zhang Shuye had also practiced martial arts since childhood and originally had some confidence in his own skills, but after seeing Zhang Yang's skills, he knew that the two were not on the same level, and could even be said to be worlds apart.

Hearing Zhang Yang claim to be born of divine will, Zhao Mingcheng was somewhat convinced and shook his head, saying, "The chieftain's skills are indeed unparalleled, and it shouldn't be something that can be acquired through training."

Zhao Mingcheng, however, had never witnessed Zhang Yang's extraordinary abilities and shook his head, saying, "Perhaps the chieftain has exceptional talent, but that's not enough to convince the world."

Seeing Zhao Mingcheng's stubbornness, Zhang Yang continued, "Then let me reveal some more secrets of heaven. Within a month, Fang La in Jiangnan will surely rebel, and within three months, the southeast will be in utter chaos." "The situation is dire."

Zhao Mingcheng, upon hearing this, scoffed, "Although the court's policies have been somewhat harsh in recent years, at most there have only been some small uprisings. How could it be so chaotic?"

Zhang Shuye echoed, "Perhaps the chieftain is exaggerating."

Seeing that neither of them believed him, Zhang Yang laughed and said, "Let's make a gentleman's agreement. If the situation in the southeast deteriorates within three months, you two will help me unify the world. Otherwise, I will submit to the court. What do you say?"

Through his observations over the past few days, Zhang Shuye knew that Liangshan was the greatest threat to the country. If Zhang Yang did not submit, even the entire nation's army might not be able to subdue him, not to mention the barbarian threat abroad, which could not be tolerated for years of internal warfare. Upon hearing this, knowing that the opportunity was too good to miss, he immediately said, "It's a deal

. If there is no large-scale uprising in the southeast within two months, the chieftain will submit to the imperial court." Without waiting for Zhao Mingcheng's reaction, Zhang Yang said, "Good, a gentleman's word is as good as his bond. With your help, pacifying the world is just around the corner. Defu, you must be tired from your journey; let me escort you to your room."

Zhao Mingcheng didn't believe there would be any major changes in Jiangnan, and seeing Zhang Yang's polite manner, he followed him to his room.

Chapter 89: The Decapitation Plan

. On the ninth day of the tenth month of the second year of Xuanhe, Fang La, claiming to have received a divine decree, led peasants and Manichaean followers in an uprising, using Bangyuan Cave as their base, conquering cities and seizing territories everywhere. In early November, Fang La proclaimed himself the Holy Duke, changed the era name to Yongle, established six ranks of generals, and used red turbans and other colored headbands as a symbol, establishing a peasant regime. Many Manichaean followers in Jiangnan responded, and the southeast was shaken.

Ye Chun had also built over three hundred large and small seaplanes and trained the navy for over twenty days.

Seeing that the lake was about to freeze over, Gao Qiu summoned Ye Chun. After

exchanging greetings, Gao Qiu asked, "The lake is about to freeze over; is the navy ready for battle?"

Ye Chun replied, "The navy is well-trained and awaits your order, sir, to march straight at Liangshan."

Gao Qiu, still somewhat uneasy, said, "That's good. Go back and make preparations. Tomorrow, I will go with the officers to observe the navy's drills. If they actually engage in battle, I will reward them handsomely."

Ye Chun thanked Gao Qiu and took his leave.

Upon leaving the headquarters, Ye Chun informed the Liangshan scouts.

Soon after, a white dove flew towards Liangshan.

Upon receiving the news, Zhang Yang summoned the leaders and said, "The time is ripe. Gao Qiu is preparing to attack our stronghold. To avoid further weakening our Han strength, I intend to lead a few men to capture Gao Qiu and then force the government troops to surrender. Lin Chong, Guan Sheng, Huyan Zhuo, Wang Huan, and Xu Jing's five forces will march to Jizhou tomorrow night to surround the government troops' camp, while the navy will directly attack the shipyard. Wu Song can have his personal guards change into government troops' armor and come to Jizhou to meet us tomorrow."

Wu Yong said, "Chief, you can send Wu Song with the men. Why go to such a dangerous place yourself?"

Zhang Yang laughed and said, "This matter is of great importance. I will go myself. Rest assured, generals, there is no place in this world that can keep me here."

Hearing this, everyone agreed without suspicion and went out to prepare.

Only Lin Chong seemed preoccupied and lagged behind.

Zhang Yang, seeing this, guessed his thoughts and laughed, "Brother Lin, don't worry, I'll leave Gao Qiu to you."

Lin Chong immediately turned and bowed, saying, "Thank you for your kindness, Chief."

Zhang Yang helped Lin Chong up, saying, "You are an old man of the stronghold, why be so formal in private?"

Lin Chong, seeing Zhang Yang treat him as before, was filled with admiration and firmly replied, "Propriety cannot be disregarded. Now that the stronghold has many soldiers and generals, how can Lin Chong break the rules?"

Seeing Lin Chong's willingness to go, Zhang Yang comforted him for a while and then ordered him to prepare.

Zhang Yang, along with Shi Xiu and ten personal guards, rushed to Jizhou overnight. The city walls of Jizhou naturally could not stop Zhang Yang and his men. After entering the city, they rested at the stronghold's scouts' quarters.

The next day, Gao Qiu led his men to inspect the ships. Ye Chun deployed more than three hundred sea-going boats on the water. A dozen or so boats were selected, adorned with banners, and accompanied by the sounds of gongs, drums, and clappers. At the sound of these instruments, waterwheels on both sides began to move in unison, creating a scene of incredible speed and agility.

Gao Qiu was overjoyed and immediately ordered gold and silver to be awarded to Ye Chun; the other carpenters were given travel expenses and allowed to return home.

After Gao Qiu established his headquarters in Jizhou, he prohibited the people from moving around the city at night. Therefore, the city became deserted at night. Only the government office was filled with the sounds of drums and music. Having seen the warships during the day, Gao Qiu was filled with confidence in defeating Liangshan. After discussing military matters with his officers, he summoned singers and dancers for entertainment.

Winter nights are undoubtedly the most unbearable, especially when others are indulging in revelry while you are patrolling in the cold wind; the time seems to drag on endlessly. Two soldiers circled the courtyard twice before taking shelter from the wind against a wall. While chatting idly, a man jumped down in front of them. Just as they were about to question him, they felt a sharp pain in their necks and fainted.

Zhang Yang helped the two men up, softly mimicking a cat's meow. Shi Xiu

then led his men over the wall. Zhang Yang and Shi Xiu changed into soldiers' uniforms and began patrolling the courtyard, quickly replacing the soldiers inside with ten personal guards. Then Zhang Yang and Shi Xiu headed towards the main hall.

The soldiers guarding the hall were peering through the windows at the sliver of light peeking into the room. Zhang Yang easily knocked the two men unconscious from behind.

He had two personal guards relieve them and then slipped into the hall.

Gao Qiu was drinking when a figure flashed in from outside. Wherever the figure passed, generals and dancers collapsed in terror. He was about to scream when he felt a sharp pain in his neck; the newcomer had already grabbed his throat.

Zhang Yang said, "Don't scream."

Seeing his life in someone else's hands, Gao Qiu quickly nodded, saying, "I'll do as you say, sir. Please have mercy."

Seeing Shi Xiu had entered, Zhang Yang ordered him to search the generals for their command tokens. After ascertaining the name of the officer on duty, Zhang Yang said, "Wu Song is waiting outside the city with his personal guards. Have them take the tokens and

take over the city's defenses." Soon after, Wu Song led his troops into the city and silently took over the defenses.

Zhang Yang then sent men with the tokens of each general to the military camps outside the city to invite the commanders and lieutenants of each army to enter. Although the men were suspicious of their superior's late-night summons, they dared not refuse upon seeing the tokens. (In the Northern Song Dynasty, the Imperial Guard consisted of one hundred men forming a "du," five "du" forming a "ying," five "ying" forming a "jun," and ten "jun" forming a "xiang." The commander of a "jun" was called the "jundu zhihuishi" (military commander), also known as the "jun zhu," and his deputy was the "jundu yuhou.")

Upon entering the headquarters, the men were immediately taken into custody by Zhang Yang's personal guards.

Zhang Yang woke the generals, and they were horrified to see that all their mid-level officers had also been captured and brought to the hall.

Once everyone had grasped the situation, Zhang Yang cleared his throat and said, "I am Zhang Yang of Liangshan. The outcome is now decided, and I have no desire for further bloodshed. A wise man submits to circumstances; give me your answer."

Hearing this, the generals began to consider Zhang Yang's words. While they were deliberating, Gao Qiu knelt down and kowtowed, saying, "This humble servant is willing to surrender to the chieftain."

Zhang Yang, however, remained silent, merely staring at the generals.

Seeing Gao Qiu's surrender, the other generals hesitated for a moment before also surrendering.

Zhang Yang helped each of his generals to their feet, laughing, "With your help, our stronghold is like a tiger with wings."

Gao Qiu, seeing that Zhang Yang seemed to have forgotten him, hurriedly kowtowed, saying, "

This humble one is also willing to submit to the chieftain." Zhang Yang glanced at Gao Qiu with disdain and scolded, "What use is a traitor like you to the country? Men, tie Gao Qiu up and send him to Lin Chong later."

Hearing this, Gao Qiu turned pale with fright and begged for mercy, but was dragged away by Zhang Yang's personal guards.

Zhang Yang then soothed the generals for a while before ordering them to rest in the government office. The generals were dispersed to guest rooms in the government office; although their lives were no longer in danger, they couldn't sleep.

The next day, just as dawn broke, the soldiers on guard outside the city camp saw the Liangshan army appear outside. Only then did the various units realize that the highest-ranking officer in the camp was a commander who only had authority over five hundred men.

Each commander gathered their five hundred men, but dared not leave their camps to fight, and could only watch as the Liangshan army surrounded the camp.

Just as Lin Chong and his troops surrounded the camp, Zhang Yang led out the surrendered generals, instructing them to persuade their subordinates to surrender as well.

The government troops, already fearful of the Liangshan army, and seeing their commander offering surrender, also surrendered en masse, and the army successfully seized the warships.

Zhang Yang then reorganized the surrendered troops on the spot, and three days later led his army towards Liangshan.

(05-09
The World Chapter

1: Fang La's Rebellion

) It is said that Wang Fu, upon hearing of the rebellion in the southeast, merely ordered the military commander of Liangzhe Road to lead troops to suppress it, without reporting to the emperor. However, he could no longer conceal the fact that Gao Qiu had been defeated and killed. He had no choice but to personally inform Emperor Huizong. At this time, the Daojun Emperor had not attended court for a month, and upon hearing of his beloved minister's death, he was naturally furious.

The next day, Emperor Huizong broke with tradition and attended the morning court session. Three cracks of the whip echoed through the imperial palace, and the civil and military officials lined the golden steps. Emperor Huizong then said, "The Liangshan bandits have repeatedly plundered cities and now murdered court officials; they are truly traitors… We should lead troops to annihilate them."

The generals, already aware of Liangshan's great victory, all lowered their heads and hid, fearing the emperor would target them.

Just then, the Imperial Censor Cui Jing stepped forward and said, "I have heard that a large banner stands at Liangshan, inscribed with the four characters 'Acting on behalf of Heaven.' This is a tactic to win over the people. Since the people's hearts are won over, we should not send troops. This year, our dynasty has also agreed to attack Liaodong with the Jin Dynasty; we should not engage in further internal strife. In my humble opinion, these outlaws in the mountains have all committed crimes and have nowhere else to go but to gather in the mountains. If an imperial edict were issued, the Court of Imperial Sacrifices would provide imperial wine and delicacies, and a high-ranking official were dispatched to Liangshan to speak kindly to them..." "Appease them, offer amnesty and surrender, and in the future, send them to attack Liao. This will benefit both the public and the private. I humbly beg Your Majesty's wise consideration."

Tong Guan, who was also somewhat afraid of the Liangshan troops, stepped forward and said, "Although the Liangshan bandits are not comparable to the Imperial Guards, they still have some fighting power. If they are sent to fight on the frontier, they can cause Liao some trouble."

Emperor Huizong was furious upon hearing this and shouted, "According to your words, have my ministers died in vain?"

Seeing the emperor's anger, the ministers all remained silent.

At this time, Wang Fu was still focused on maintaining a facade of peace. Relying on the emperor's current prestige and knowing that Huizong was ambitious and eager to recover the Yan and Yun regions, and seeing that the other officials dared not speak up, he stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, please calm your anger. Liao and Jin are both treacherous and dangerous lands. Sending the Liangshan bandits to fight for the country and defend the borders is the best choice at present. If Grand Commandant Gao knew that his death would bring Your Majesty lasting glory, he would certainly not oppose this proposal."

Upon hearing this, Huizong was somewhat tempted, but he did not want to express his opinion immediately, lest the officials feel that they had been discarded after the fact. He simply snorted and left.

Seeing this, Wang Fu guessed Huizong's thoughts, but he was not in a hurry, and simply accompanied the emperor on his daily outings. While

the court had not yet decided on a strategy to deal with Liangshan, Jiangnan was gradually falling into disarray.

On November 22nd, Fang La's rebel army annihilated 5,000 Song troops stationed in Liangzhe Road at Qingxi County, killing Cai Zun and Yan Tan, the military commanders of that road, and then advanced on Qingxi County in victory.

Respondents flocked to the uprising from various parts of the southeast. Shi Sheng from Zhou, Lu Xing'er from Huzhou, Zhu Yan and Wu Bang from Wuzhou, Chen Shisi from Yongkang County, Huo Chengfu and Chen Gutong from Chuzhou, and others led local peasants to join the rebellion. Lü Shinang from Xianju County in Taizhou, Qiu Rixin from Shan County in Yuezhou, and Zheng Mowang from Quzhou led local Manichaean secret organizations in a rebellion. Peasants from Huzhou, Changzhou, and Xiuzhou also gathered followers, preparing to attack prefectures and counties. Peasants from various places joined the rebel army.

Upon hearing this news, Wang Fu, along with his ministers, persuaded Emperor Huizong to grant amnesty to Liangshan. Emperor Huizong, having found a way out, dispatched Grand Commandant Chen Zongshan as an envoy, carrying an imperial edict and wine, to offer amnesty to the various members of Liangshan.

After the court session ended that day, Grand Commandant Chen received the imperial edict and went home to pack. Not long after, someone from the Grand Tutor's residence came to invite him.

Chen Zongshan got into the sedan chair and disembarked in front of Wang Fu's residence, going straight into the study inside the Hall of Imperial Sacrifices.

After exchanging greetings, Wang Fu said, "Grand Commandant, your journey is for two reasons: first, to serve the country, and second, to alleviate the suffering of the people and eliminate the calamities for the army and civilians. Although many of the Liangshan bandits are willing to die, in this special time, they can also serve the country. Grand Commandant, you should use some sweet words and show them extra care. If this matter is accomplished, Grand Commandant

, your promotion and honor will not be far off." Chen Zongshan was overjoyed upon hearing this, but still said, "This matter depends entirely on Grand Tutor persuading the Emperor. I am merely running errands. With the Emperor's divine authority and Grand Tutor's blessing, this matter will surely succeed."

Wang Fu nodded in satisfaction and said, "Good, you can go with peace of mind. I will take care of everything in the capital. Go back and prepare."

Chen Zongshan then took his leave.

Before Chen Zongshan had even set off, Fang La had already captured Muzhou and the counties of Shouchang, Fenshui, Tonglu, and Suian. They then marched west to capture Shezhou, annihilating Guo's central forces, and east to conquer Fuyang and Xincheng. Wherever they went, they burned Confucian temples, destroyed statues, and killed corrupt officials. Fang Qifo's troops, under the banner of "killing Zhu Mian," advanced directly towards Hangzhou.

Hangzhou was the capital of Liangzhe Circuit, the location of the Imperial Workshop, and one of the command centers for the Flower and Stone Tribute. The people suffered even more from the Flower and Stone Tribute. With the help of the people, Fang Qifo's troops captured Hangzhou in a few days, killing Chen Jian, the military commissioner of Liangzhe Circuit, and Zhao Yue, the inspector. The prefect

, Zhao Ting, fled. The long-simmering resentment of the masses in Hangzhou led to the capture of officials and the excavation of the tombs of Cai Jing's father and grandfather, exposing their remains.

Wang Fu, hearing of the chaos in the southeast, dared not deceive Emperor Huizong any longer. When Huizong learned of the renewed unrest in Jiangnan, he only reprimanded Wang Fu.

The next day, he unusually attended court again, with both civil and military officials present.

Emperor Huizong said, "The Manichaeism sect is causing chaos in the southeast, killing officials and harming the people. Who can share my burden?"

Tong Guan, who had also learned of this, stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, I am willing to lead troops to suppress the rebels."

Having experienced the Liangshan incident, Emperor Huizong was not entirely at ease with Tong Guan. Hearing this, he asked, "The southeast is the source of the nation's revenue; we must not allow it to spread. Which troops do you intend to lead to suppress it?"

Tong Guan replied, "I intend to lead troops from six routes—Xihe, Jingyuan, Huanqing, Yanyan, Hedong, and Qinfeng—southward. The elite troops from the northwest are seasoned veterans and should be able to quickly suppress the rebels."

Upon hearing this, Emperor Huizong nodded and appointed Tong Guan as the Pacification Commissioner of Jiang, Huai, Jing, and Zhe routes, Tan Zhen as the Military Commissioner of Liangzhe route, and Liu Yanqing, the Deputy Commander of the Palace Guard, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Pacification Commission. He also ordered the mobilization of 150,000 imperial guards from the capital region and troops from six routes of non-Han and non-Han troops in Shaanxi to prepare for a southward campaign to quell the rebellion.

Wang Fu also sent Chen Zongshan to Liangshan.

Having learned of this matter, Zhang Yang summoned Zhang Shuye and Zhao Mingcheng, informing them of the current situation in the southeast.

Although Zhang Shuye trusted Zhang Yang's character, he couldn't help but ask with doubt, "Is what the chieftain says true?"

Zhang Yang wasn't in a hurry to raise an army, and upon hearing this, he said solemnly, "If you don't believe me, we can wait a few more days. The imperial court has sent Grand Commandant Chen Zongshan to the stronghold to offer amnesty; you can ask him about this matter. However, I'll have to avoid him for a while." He then added with a smile, "Don't tell anyone I'm in the stronghold."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Shuye said, "If what the chieftain says is true, we will serve him and naturally won't reveal his whereabouts."

Zhang Yang also trusted the two men's character and immediately sent them back.

Chen Zongshan arrived in Jizhou and immediately sent a message to Liangshan.

Zhang Yang also sent Wu Yong and others down the mountain to welcome him.

When Chen Zongshan arrived at the port and saw so many people welcoming him, he was even more confident about his mission.

Just as Wu Yong and his men were about to pay their respects, Chen Zongshan dismounted and stopped him. The other heroes, who had no intention of bowing to him anyway, also stood up.

Chen Zongshan said, "You heroes have acted on behalf of Heaven and done much for the people. How dare I accept your respect?"

Wu Yong replied, "You flatter me, sir. We were merely acting on impulse; how could we compare to your tireless dedication? A banquet has been prepared at the stronghold; please come to the stronghold to discuss this."

Chen Zongshan, however, was eager to establish merit, and upon hearing this, he led his men up the mountain with Wu Yong.

Upon arriving at the mountain stronghold, Chen Zongshan was about to announce the imperial decree when Wu Yong said, "My lord, please forgive me, our chieftain is away on business. Please wait a few days."

Hearing this, Chen Zongshan asked, "When will your chieftain return?"

Wu Yong replied, "The chieftain hasn't said for sure, but it shouldn't be too long. Rest assured, my lord, the stronghold has arranged food and lodging for you. Please stay a few days and enjoy the scenery."

Hearing this, Chen Zongshan had no choice but to stay at Liangshan.

That evening, Zhao Mingcheng and Zhang Shuye came to Chen Zongshan's place to inquire about news from the southeast.

Chen Zongshan, a disciple of Zhao Mingcheng's father Zhao Tingzhi, greeted Zhao Mingcheng upon seeing him, saying, "What brings Defu to Liangshan?"

Zhao Mingcheng recognized Chen Zongshan and replied, "It's a long story; I'll tell you more later, senior brother. Some time ago, a friend of mine went to Jiangnan to study epigraphy, but recently I heard there's been great turmoil in the southeast. I wonder if you know anything about it, senior brother?"

Chen Zongshan, without suspicion, nodded and said, "In November, Fang La rebelled in Jiangnan, and now he's swept through the Liangzhe region. Many other regions have also joined the rebellion. If Defu's friend is there, he's probably in real danger."

Zhao Mingcheng and Zhang Shuye's expressions changed upon hearing this.

Chen Zongshan assumed they were worried about their friend and offered a few words of comfort.

Zhao Mingcheng sighed and said, "Could it truly be the will of Heaven? We have no choice but to abide by the agreement."

Chen Zongshan, upon hearing this, was completely bewildered and asked curiously, "What do you mean by that, Defu?"

Zhang Shuye also sighed and said, "Defu is overly anxious. Let me help him to rest. He will visit you again another day, sir."

Chen Zongshan nodded and instructed Zhang Shuye to escort him carefully.

The two left the house and headed straight for Zhang Yang's courtyard.

Chapter Two: Fang La's Envoy

Chen Zongshan had been staying at Liangshan for over ten days. With the year-end approaching and Zhang Yang's return date uncertain, he gradually lost patience. However, Wang Fu was determined to succeed and sent a message for him to wait patiently, so he dared not leave, but his official arrogance was also growing daily.

That day, while chatting with Zhao Mingcheng, Wu Yong entered and said, "My chieftain has returned and requests that you proceed to the Hall of Gathering Righteousness for a meeting."

Upon hearing this, Chen Zongshan quickly rose and followed Wu Yong to the Hall of Gathering

Righteousness. Zhang Yang greeted Chen Zongshan, saying, "Zhang Yang is late in welcoming Your Majesty; please forgive me."

Chen Zongshan replied, "The scenery of Liangshan is delightful; I have lingered here every day, captivated by its beauty, and have not noticed how many days have passed. I must thank the stronghold for its hospitality."

Zhang Yang smiled and said, "You are too kind, sir. With the year drawing to a close, we will not waste your time. Please issue the imperial edict as soon as possible so that you may return home to reunite with your family."

Upon hearing this, Chen Zongshan instructed the Liangshan men to welcome the imperial edict. An incense table was set up, and Chen Zongshan presented the imperial edict, which was filled with sweet words and flattery.

Zhang Yang led his men to accept the imperial appointment, saying, "We are fully aware of the Emperor's good intentions, but with the year-end approaching, it is not advisable to request reinforcements. We trouble you, sir, to speak well of us when you return. Next spring, I will lead my troops to the capital to apologize."

Chen Zongshan was overjoyed to see Zhang Yang accept the appointment and replied with a smile, "Don't worry, Chieftain. I have already foreseen the difficulties along the way. When I return to the capital, I will truthfully report to the Emperor. With the Grand Tutor's assistance, I believe there will be no change."

Zhang Yang thanked Chen Zongshan and then ordered a banquet to be prepared so that everyone could enjoy the "imperial grace."

The next day, Chen Zongshan took his leave and descended the mountain. Zhang Yang then took Zhao Mingcheng with him, along with a large amount of gold and silver, to be used for bribery in the capital.

Zhao Mingcheng's father, Zhao Tingzhi, had once served as Prime Minister and had many protégés and former officials. Upon arriving in the capital, Zhao Mingcheng paid his respects to his old acquaintances and then spent money to bribe powerful and corrupt officials.

Just then, Tong Guan led his troops south to Suzhou and learned that the rebel army numbered in the hundreds of thousands, and the people lined the streets to welcome them wherever they went. Tong Guan realized the seriousness of the situation and, in order to win back the hearts of the people, abolished all the tribute bureaus and the flower and stone tribute system in the name of the emperor. He

also dismissed Zhu Mian and his sons and nephews from their posts, gradually calming the hearts of the people in Suzhou and Hangzhou. The tribute bureaus, however, were established by Wang Fu to curry favor with the emperor and extort money. While Tong Guan's actions weakened the appeal of the rebel army, they infringed upon Wang Fu's interests. Wang Fu then slandered Tong Guan before the emperor while boasting of his own merit in recruiting Liangshan rebels and showing considerable favor to them. Emperor Huizong granted Zhang Yang's request.

In the first month of the second year of the Xuanhe era, Tong Guan and Tan Zhen divided their troops into two routes, led by Wang Bing and Liu Zhen respectively, and marched towards Hangzhou and Shezhou, attempting to meet at Muzhou.

Fang La, however, misjudged the overall situation, believing the Song Dynasty to be utterly corrupt. He rejected the advice of former Imperial Academy student Lü Jiang to "directly seize Jinling and establish a stronghold first," instead sending Fang Qifo to lead an army north, while Fang La himself led the main force south, successively capturing Wuzhou and Quzhou.

Fang Qifo's troops captured Chongde County in one fell swoop, besieged Xiuzhou northeast of Hangzhou, and sent troops into Huzhou. Just then, Wang Bing led the eastern route Song army south, and the two forces engaged in fierce fighting in Xiuzhou. Due to the lack of training among the rebel army, Fang Qifo lost 9,000 men in this battle and retreated to Hangzhou.

The defeat at Xiuzhou exposed Hangzhou to government troops. Wang Bing's forces gradually regrouped and besieged Hangzhou in February. Fang La then led his troops back to reinforce the city, but the rebel army was still outnumbered. Unwilling to relinquish the hard-won city of Hangzhou, Fang La rejected Lü Jiang's suggestion to immediately withdraw.

After more than ten days of fierce fighting, with food supplies running low and casualties mounting, Fang La led his troops to withdraw from Hangzhou, leaving Fang Qifo's forces to defend the city. On the 28th, food supplies in the city ran out, and Fang Qifo was forced to lead his troops to break through the siege. A fierce battle ensued, and only a little over a thousand men survived, fighting their way out of the encirclement with Fang Qifo. They retreated through Fuyang and other places, finally returning to Qingxi.

On March 1st, Fang La led his troops to counterattack Hangzhou again, but the government troops were well-trained, and the rebel army suffered a defeat and retreated south. Fortunately, the rebel forces in various places fought desperately to slow down the pursuing government troops.

Fang La fled back to Bangyuan Cave in Qingxi and hurriedly summoned his men to discuss the situation.

After everyone finished their greetings, Fang La said, "In this battle, I was unfortunately defeated by the Song army. Now, the Song army's eastern route has approached Tonglu, and the western route has reached Shezhou. If the government troops attack Bangyuan Cave from both sides, I fear we will be unable to resist. What good plans do you ministers have to turn defeat into victory?"

Prime Minister Fang Fei stepped forward and bowed, saying, "The Song army is strong and its generals are brave. They are sweeping in, and it is difficult to meet them head-on. Fortunately, Muzhou and Shezhou each have natural defenses. As long as Your Majesty sends troops to hold these places, you can surely hold off the Song army for a long time. Your Majesty should also send troops from the southern prefectures north to defend the capital. Once our army is assembled, we should be able to defeat the Song army."

Fang La nodded upon hearing this and said, "Prime Minister's words are exactly what I was thinking. I underestimated the Song army before. Once the generals from the south return with their troops, I will then fight the Song army..." "Let's decide the outcome."

General Lü, however, was somewhat unconvinced and stepped forward, saying, "The Song army consists entirely of elite troops from the Northwest, while our army was hastily assembled and lacks training. I fear we cannot win. I believe we should invite the heroes of the North to rise up and threaten Bianjing, thus diverting the Song army's forces. Only then can our country achieve victory."

Fang La said, "Wang Qing of Huaixi and Tian Hu of Hedong are merely two bandits. How dare they attack Bianjing?" General

Lü said, "I am referring to Zhang Yang of Liangshan. This man commands a large number of elite troops and strong generals. The defenses in various parts of the capital are weak. If we can get him to attack Bianjing directly, Emperor Huizong of Song will surely send Tong Guan's army north to reinforce it. At that time, our army will pursue and we can decisively defeat the Song army."

Fang La said, "I heard that this man has already been recruited by the Song Dynasty. How could he attack Bianjing again?" General

Lü said, "This man already commands tens of thousands of troops. " However, he remained hidden in Liangshan, causing the Song emperor and his ministers to lower their guard against him. He then used the banner of "acting on behalf of Heaven" to win over the people. In my opinion, this man is a ruthless and ambitious figure. Although he accepted the Song Dynasty's offer of amnesty, he did not go to the capital to receive his title, which is quite strange. Your Majesty could send someone to persuade him to raise an army and march directly towards Bianjing, agreeing to divide the world in two along the Yangtze River. If he truly has ambition, he will surely seize the opportunity to rise up.”

Fang La, however, is exceptionally brave but lacks strategy. He only wants to defeat the Song army himself. Hearing this, he said, “Liangshan is far from here. I'm afraid it will be too late by the time he sends his troops. Our country must rely on ourselves to defeat the Song army.”

The strategist, Old Buddha Wang, who was not optimistic about his own troops, stepped forward and said, “Your Majesty's words are reasonable, but if the Song army…” If reinforcements are sent south, our country will likely be unable to withstand them. It would be better to send envoys to Liangshan to persuade them; if successful, it will disperse the Song army's forces; if not, it will not harm our strength.”

Seeing that his two main advisors agreed, Fang La also said, “Then, in the strategist's opinion, who should I send to persuade Zhang Yang?”

Wang Gong Laofo thought for a moment and said, “In my opinion, we should send Princess Baihua. Firstly, the princess is intelligent and capable. Secondly, the princess is exceptionally beautiful; if she can be betrothed to Zhang Yang, it will encourage him to raise an army sooner. It will also ensure he doesn't betray the alliance later.”

Upon hearing this, Fang La angrily said, “How can I betroth my imperial sister to someone I've never met? Let's discuss this again. All troops should ambush the Song army along the way, and at the same time, urgently order Lü Shinang and his troops to march north.” Having said this, he turned and left. Seeing

this, the officials had no choice but to disperse.

A few days later, news arrived that Shezhou had fallen, and the rebel army had no choice but to ambush the Song army along the villages. However, the disparity in strength between the two sides was too great, and the rebel army suffered heavy casualties. The southern generals were tied down by Song troops in various regions and were unable to advance north.

Seeing this situation, General Lü and the Old Buddha Wang secretly visited Princess Baihua.

After listening to their analysis of the situation, Princess Baihua agreed to go north to Liangshan.

The next morning at court, Princess Baihua petitioned to be sent as an envoy to Liangshan. Seeing that his sister's mind was made up, Fang La had no choice but to assign the National Preceptor Deng Yuanjue, Baoguang Rulai, to escort his younger sister.

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Chapter 3: On the eve of the uprising

, due to the Song army's roadblocks and the massacre of entire villages of Manichaeans, Fang Baihua and Deng Yuanjue had to first head west, bypassing the Song army's blockade, before heading north to Liangshan. On

March 24th, the Song army entered Tonglu. Three days later, Wang Bing sent men to dig tunnels and use gunpowder to blow up the walls of Muzhou, forcing the rebel army to retreat from Muzhou.

In early April, Fang La's forces engaged in positional warfare with the Song army in the area from Muzhou to Qingxi. Both sides fought fiercely for every inch of land. Due to Tong Guan's policy of massacre, the Song army left countless dead civilians wherever they went.

After Fang Baihua and Deng Yuanjue entered Shandong, they frequently heard tales of Zhang Yang's heroic deeds from Liangshan, and both became increasingly curious about him.

Thanks to Wang Fu and Zhao Mingcheng's influence, the court seemed to have forgotten about Liangshan and did not urge Zhang Yang to go to Dongjing to receive his title. Zhang Yang was happy to sit back and watch the battle unfold, spending his days analyzing the situation in Jiangnan and formulating future policies.

One day, as Zhang Yang was planning his route to launch his rebellion, his personal guard reported: "A monk claiming to be Deng Yuanjue, accompanied by a woman, is requesting an audience with the chieftain."

Zhang Yang was taken aback; a monk and a woman—such a combination was indeed bizarre. Intrigued, he said, "Invite them up the mountain."

Fang Baihua and Deng Yuanjue entered the moor and, seeing the naval vessels anchored at the mountainside, were secretly astonished by Liangshan's strength.

The two men, led by their personal guards, went straight to the Hall of Gathering Righteousness. Fang Baihua's eyes lit up when she saw Zhang Yang, young and handsome, seated in the hall.

Zhang Yang, seeing the two—one as imposing as Lu Zhishen, the other as beautiful as San Niang—was even more curious. He gestured for them to sit down before saying, "I am Zhang Yang of Liangshan. May I ask where you two are from?"

Fang Baihua cupped her hands and said, "I am Fang Baihua, the younger sister of the Holy Duke of Jiangnan, and this is my elder brother, the Protector of the Nation, Master Deng Yuanjue."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Yang's mind raced, and he immediately guessed their origins. He said, "So you are righteous men from Jiangnan. I heard the great battle is raging there. Why are you two not working hard there, but instead coming to this desolate wilderness?"

Fang Baihua was taken aback when Zhang Yang ignored her beauty and asked such a question directly, but she quickly replied, "The Song army is brutal and bloodthirsty, and has lost the hearts of the people. It won't be long before our country defeats them. However, the Holy Duke saw that the people of the north were still living in dire straits, and the chieftain had hundreds of thousands of troops, so he sent me to ask the chieftain to send troops to save the people from their suffering." Fang

Baihua's wording was undoubtedly standard diplomatic rhetoric. Throughout history, envoys have always concealed their own crises and found some high-sounding excuses. This was not inherently wrong.

But seeing a beautiful woman lying through her teeth, Zhang Yang felt like he had swallowed a fly. He barely suppressed his annoyance and said seriously, "I just received news that the Song army has approached Qingxi. I'm afraid the Jiangnan rebels are already at their wits' end. Princess Baihua is plotting a 'besieging Wei to rescue Zhao,' isn't she?" Fang

Baihua and her companion had been rushing along, only hearing about the Song army's series of victories, but they were unaware that the situation had changed so quickly. Upon hearing that the Song army had already advanced to Qingxi, Fang Baihua panicked and nearly fell to the side. Fortunately, Deng Yuanjue reacted quickly and caught her.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang immediately felt he had been too cruel and tried to salvage the situation, saying, "Princess Baihua, there's no need to worry too much. Although the Song army has surrounded Qingxi, the rebel army still has hundreds of thousands of troops. If they are commanded properly, they might even turn the tide."

Fang Baihua had regained her composure and bowed, saying, "Thank you for your kind words, Chief. To be honest, my initial plan was to relieve the siege of Wei by attacking Zhao, but now is also the perfect opportunity for you to raise an army. That's all I have to say. Whether you raise an army or not, I will stand with my brother through thick and thin. Farewell."

With that, she turned to descend the mountain.

Zhang Yang knew Fang La wouldn't last much longer. Seeing Fang Baihua's determination to rescue her brother, and unwilling to let her die on the battlefield or fall into the hands of government troops, he stood up and said, "Princess Baihua, wait! You alone can't change the situation. Why don't you join me in the campaign?"

Fang Baihua had thought Zhang Yang had no intention of sending troops at this moment, but upon hearing this, she was overjoyed, and her beautiful face once again radiated stunning charm. The fright she had just experienced had also caused her to lose her composure, naturally revealing the gentleness that a woman should have

. She turned around, gave a graceful curtsy, and said softly, "Thank you for your help, Chieftain." Seeing Fang Baihua's display of vulnerability, Zhang Yang was immediately struck by her beauty. In his modern life, Zhang Yang had seen many so-called strong women. In his eyes, they had achieved the same status as men, which they had fought for, so there was no need to be humble towards them anymore. Therefore, he was used to treating them ruthlessly.

But a weak woman could evoke his tenderness and compassion, making it impossible for him to be cruel to her. He smiled and said, "Princess Baihua, you're too kind. Let me lead you to your rooms to rest. Once the stronghold is ready, we can march straight to Tokyo."

The ancients undoubtedly appreciated the feminine beauty of women, but Fang Baihua had been strong and decisive since childhood. The Manichaeism's tolerance towards women further enhanced her masculine strength. Meeting Zhang Yang's gentle gaze, the intelligent woman vaguely guessed the reason for his change in attitude. For the sake of her brother's great cause, she curtsied again and said softly, "I will obey the chief's orders."

After arranging for Fang Baihua and her companion to rest, Zhang Yang had Wu Yong, Zong Ze, and Dai Zong invited over.

After the three exchanged greetings, Zhang Yang said, "Now that Tong Guan's army has crippled Fang La's forces and the Central Plains are undefended, it is the perfect time for our mountain stronghold to rise up. Five days later, we will lead our troops straight to Tokyo and simultaneously send a message to the court, saying that we are going to Tokyo to receive our titles."

Wu Yong said, "Fang La is not yet defeated. If we capture Tokyo, Tong Guan will surely send troops north. At that time, Fang La will rise again, and Jiangnan will be difficult to subdue."

Zhang Yang laughed, "Tong Guan besieged Qingxi a few days ago and has probably already captured it. We still have to wait for the Emperor's 'decree' before we can raise our troops. In addition, we will be wasting time along the way. By the time we reach Tokyo, Fang La will probably have already been captured. Moreover, it will take Tong Guan more than ten days to receive the news. Dai Zong should send a message to Zhao Mingcheng and ask him to request an imperial decree so that we can go and take Tokyo."

Upon hearing this, Wu Yong realized that he had overlooked the time wasted on the journey.

Immediately, Dai Zong sent a messenger to Zhao Mingcheng.

Wang Fu was overjoyed to hear that Liangshan was coming to Tokyo to receive their titles. To boast of his achievements, he sent officials to deliver

the imperial decree with great fanfare. While Zhang Yang awaited the decree, Fang La was forced to abandon Qingxi County and retreat to his base in Bangyuan and Yangtong. The situation in eastern Zhejiang also took a sharp turn for the worse. First, a rebellion broke out in Chuzhou. Hong Zai, the leader of the uprising forces who had seized Chuzhou, surrendered the city to the Song army. Then, the Song army attacked from Xinzhou in the south towards Quzhou and Wuzhou; from Shangyu in the north; and from Pujiang in the center.

Chapter Four: Shandong Strategy

While awaiting the imperial decree, the army that had forced Gao Qiu to surrender was reorganized. In addition to replenishing the troops and the wounded and killed by the ten military governors, two 10,000-man units were formed, with Dang Shiying and Dang Shixiong as commanders. Hua Rong's cavalry was also at full strength for the first time. Thus, Zhang Yang's forces numbered twenty-five, each commanding ten thousand men, led by Yang Zhi, Lin Chong, Guan Sheng, Huyan Zhuo, Qin Ming, Lu Zhishen, Lu Junyi, Chao Gai, Duan Pengju, Zhou Xin, Zhang Qing, Dong Ping, Dang Shiying, Dang Shixiong, and ten military commanders.

Upon receiving Emperor Huizong's edict, Zhang Yang summoned Lin Chong, Qin Ming, and Chao Gai. After

the three exchanged greetings, Zhang Yang said, "Tomorrow, Lin Chong will lead three units eastward to capture Dengzhou and Laizhou, then northward to conquer other prefectures. Chao Gai's unit will leave one thousand-man unit in each prefecture to garrison. Chao Gai will lead the remaining troops to guard Qingzhou, responsible for military affairs in Shandong. Lin Chong and Qin Ming's units will head north to conquer the prefectures of Hebei. All units are strictly prohibited from harassing the people; violators will be executed without mercy."

Zhang Yang also introduced several trained administrators to the three, instructing them to prepare for the operation. Zhang Yang also made initial adjustments in various aspects.

Regarding criminal law, he abolished the cruel punishments of tattooing and exile, and the execution of nine or three generations of relatives.

In terms of administration: county and prefectural officials are appointed by the imperial court, while village and township officials can recommend respected individuals to serve.

In terms of finance: the whole country is exempt from taxes for three years, with no taxes levied for the time being

. In terms of religion: the people are allowed freedom of belief, but temples and Taoist temples are stripped of their land and money, and the construction of temples and Taoist temples on occupied

land is prohibited. In terms of land: land and public land confiscated from corrupt officials, wealthy families who harm others, and temples and Taoist temples are distributed to the poor (not dividing the whole country's land equally is to avoid infringing on the rights of honest gentry and honest landlords; secondly, to ensure that there will be no labor shortage in the short term, thus preventing the decline of various businesses; and thirdly, to prepare for the protagonist's future migration to the northwest and northeast).

In terms of minerals: all minerals are nationalized.

When Zhang Yang returned to his courtyard, he saw six women playing with children. Third Sister and Hua Yu had given birth to a boy and a girl at the beginning of the year. The children seemed to have inherited Zhang Yang's excellent genes, and each one was cute and intelligent. The four older children were already babbling, and when they saw Zhang Yang return, they called out "Daddy" in their baby voices.

Zhang Yang picked up the six adorable children one by one before saying to the women, "I'm leading troops to Tokyo. You all wait here in the stronghold for a few days. Once the situation improves, I'll take you to Tokyo."

San Niang, upon hearing this, said, "Husband, I want to go with you too."

Zhang Yang embraced San Niang, his large hand sliding to her even fuller breasts, and laughed, "What will happen to the babies if you leave? Besides, Lian'er and the others need your protection. Once the situation stabilizes, I'll take you to Tokyo."

San Niang endured the tingling sensation on her chest and giggled, "Alright then, but you must hurry!"

Zhang Yang nodded, "I certainly will."

Looking down, he saw that San Niang's upper garment was soaked with expressed breast milk, and San Niang's beautiful eyes were glazed over. He then said to Wen Lian, "Have the maid take the children out. I'm going down the mountain tomorrow."

Wen Lian blushed, knowing that Zhang Yang was going to sleep with her again, but she obeyed and had the maid take the children out. With

no more constraints, Zhang Yang began his campaign.

The next day, Zhang Yang led a large army towards Dongjing. Lin Chong, Qin Ming, and Chao Gai's troops also broke away from the main force.

After the three armies had gone far away, Zhang Yang summoned the imperial envoy and said, "Just now, Lin Chong and the other two heard that I was going to Dongjing to receive my title, so they took their respective troops eastward. I'm afraid they will plunder the area. I want to send troops to pursue and suppress them, but I'm afraid the court will blame me for mobilizing troops without authorization. I ask Your Excellency to report to the Grand Tutor and ask him for a decision."

Upon hearing this, the envoy dared not act on his own and could only send someone to report to Dongjing.

Wang Fu was urging Emperor Huizong to personally inspect the Liangshan troops outside the city when he heard the news. He kept it from the emperor, only reprimanding Zhang Yang and ordering him to send troops to suppress the rebellion.

Zhang Yang, having received Wang Fu's letter, summoned Yang Zhi, Wang Huan, Duan Pengju, Zhou Xin, and Zhang Qing.

Once they were all present, Zhang Yang said, "There are few troops left in Shandong. I have already sent Lin Chong's three divisions to take them. My sworn brother, you can lead your five divisions along Lin Chong's route. Afterwards, Duan Pengju's division will assist Chao Gai's division in controlling Shandong. My sworn brother, you will lead the remaining four divisions to Hebei to seize key border locations. If the Liao army marches south, you can act accordingly."

The five accepted the order and went to muster their troops.

Zhang Yang led the remaining troops on their way, while simultaneously ordering the gathering of intelligence on the Jiangnan region.

However, the situation in Jiangnan deteriorated rapidly. On the 24th, the Song army launched a full-scale attack on Bangyuan and Yangtong. The rebel army fought valiantly for a day, but ultimately could not withstand the elite forces of the Northwest. Fang La had no choice but to lead a portion of his troops into a secluded cave in the Dongyuan region, preparing to break out at dawn. Unexpectedly, the Song army tightened their encirclement and began searching the mountains, depriving Fang La of any chance to escape again.

On the 26th, Han Shizhong, a subordinate of Wang Yuan of the Song army, discovered Fang La's whereabouts and launched a full-scale attack on the cave. After several battles, Fang La, Lü Jiang, and 52 others were captured. Han Shizhong was about to escort the prisoners to claim credit when Xin Xingzong, the commander of Xihe, intercepted the cave entrance and seized the prisoners. Lü Jiang and 13 others escaped during the ensuing fighting.

The next day, Tong Guan dispatched a large force to escort Fang La, Fang Fei, Fang La's wife Qiu, his son Fang Hao, and 39 others to Bianjing to claim credit and rewards.

After escaping, Lü Jiang and the others returned to battle. Tong Guan continued to suppress uprisings across the country.

Zhang Yang, upon receiving news of Fang La's capture, also accelerated his march towards Dongjing.

Hearing that Zhang Yang was less than a hundred li from the capital, Dongjing, Wang Fu also petitioned Emperor Huizong to review the troops outside the city so he could boast of his achievements. He suppressed all the urgent reports from various parts of Shandong.

Emperor Huizong, however, was also a man who loved to show off his accomplishments. After Wang Fu had repeatedly praised the bravery of the Liangshan troops in his ear, he also wanted to go out of the city to inspect them.

Wang Fu understood Emperor Huizong's meaning. The next morning at court, Wang Fu reported, "Zhang Yang of Liangshan has led his men close to Dongjing (Kaifeng). Although these heroes have made mistakes, they have now accepted the imperial amnesty. I request Your Majesty to personally lead the imperial procession out of the city to inspect the troops, both to demonstrate the emperor's might and to allow them to receive imperial favor."

Emperor Huizong was about to grant his request when Li Gang, the Vice Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices (Li Gang had submitted a memorial in the first year of the Xuanhe era requesting the court to pay attention to internal and external troubles, which Emperor Huizong considered inappropriate and demoted him to supervise the tax collection in Shaxian County, Nan Jianzhou. He was only recalled to court in July of the seventh year of the Xuanhe era, a few years earlier than Li Gang was)

, stepped forward and said, "They have not received imperial favor for a long time, and many of them are unruly and their hearts are unclear. If they rebel outside the city, how can we save them?" Seeing that someone had started, the other officials also offered their advice to dissuade him.

Seeing the opposition from his ministers, Emperor Huizong had no choice but to abandon the proposal. However, he still wanted to inspect the Liangshan army, so he said, "Zhang Yang has brought his troops from afar. If I don't inspect them, I fear they might cause further trouble

." Wang Fu glared at Li Gang and said, "Your Majesty is right. You can order Zhang Yang to bring ten thousand troops to the capital, and Your Majesty can watch them from the Xuande Tower with the officials. That way, there's no need to worry about them causing trouble."

Li Gang felt a chill run down his spine after being glared at by Wang Fu. Hearing this, however, he had no choice but to bite the bullet and say, "The people of the capital will surely line the streets to watch this, and ten thousand troops might obstruct traffic within the city. It would be better to send Zhang Yang with a thousand elite soldiers into the city."

Emperor Huizong, however, had been flattered by his treacherous officials for many years and was accustomed to grand occasions. Hearing this, he said, "Since Liangshan has already surrendered, they are now subjects of the state. How can we harbor so much suspicion? Order Zhang Yang to lead ten thousand troops into the city. Tomorrow, I will lead all the officials to the Xuande Tower to watch. Zhang Yang and the others should be dressed in military attire as if facing the enemy."

Upon hearing this, Wang Fu hurriedly kowtowed and accepted the decree.

Emperor Huizong had no interest in politics. After Wang Fu received the decree, without waiting for any memorials from the officials, he adjourned the court.

Chapter Five:

Zhang Yang, having been ordered to enter the capital, led his troops to the outskirts of Tokyo. Since Emperor Huizong had not designated a camp, he led his troops thirty li outside the city

before setting up camp. Half a day later, Chen Zongshan arrived with the imperial edict to announce the decree. Zhang Yang was overjoyed to hear that he was permitted to lead 10,000 troops into the capital. After seeing Chen Zongshan off, he ordered his men to summon the commanders of the 10,000-

strong force. Once everyone was present, Zhang Yang said, “Emperor Huizong of Song has granted me permission to lead 10,000 troops into the capital, which will save us a lot of effort. Tomorrow, I will lead Dong Ping’s troops into the capital. We will enter through the east gate and exit through the west gate. Once we are inside the city, the imperial guards will surely strengthen their control over the city and naturally neglect their surveillance outside the city. You can take this opportunity to march. When I lead my troops out through the west gate, I will occupy it. Hua Rong’s troops will see the signal and march quickly to reinforce us. Jing Zhong’s troops will directly attack the Northwest Imperial Stables and seize the warhorses. Guan Sheng and Xu Jing’s troops will block the two east gates, Hu Yanzhuo, Zhang Kai, and Mei Zhan’s troops will block the three south gates, and Lu Junyi, Han Cunbao, Li Congji, and Xiang Yuanzhen will block the four north gates. Wu Yong will lead the rest of the troops to the west gate to provide support.”

Zhang Yang discussed the details with everyone before they went to make their preparations.

The next day, Zhang Yang led his personal guards and Dong Ping's troops into the city. A procession of golden drums and banners led the way, followed by spears, swords, axes, and halberds. Two red flags, inscribed "Obeying Heaven" and "Protecting the Nation," stood in the center. Soldiers carried swords, bows, and arrows, all clad in full armor and robes, forming ranks as the army slowly advanced towards the Xincao Gate.

Watching the magnificent city gradually emerge on the horizon, Zhang Yang was filled with excitement. Today, he would become the master of the most prosperous and majestic city in the world, and the vast empire would submit to his feet.

Upon reaching the city walls, Zhang Yang realized how the Northern Song Dynasty had managed Bianjing. Behind the more than ten-zhang-wide "Dragon-Protecting Moat" were ten-zhang-high city walls. Without sufficient siege equipment, even reaching the city walls would likely have been futile. Of the twelve city gates, except for the four main gates, including the Nanxun Gate, which were double-layered due to their connection to the imperial road, the rest had three layers of barbicans and winding entrances. The city walls themselves were also divided into three layers.

After welcoming countless diverse people, Bianjing City also welcomed the master who had propelled him to the pinnacle of glory.

The people of Dongjing, both soldiers and civilians, upon hearing of the Liangshan army's entry into the city, lined the streets, young and old alike, to watch.

After Zhang Yang led his troops into the city, he deliberately slowed their march. Dong Ping's troops also displayed the military bearing and discipline Zhang Yang had demanded, drawing gasps of admiration wherever they went.

Emperor Huizong, having already led his officials to the Xuande Tower, grew impatient after a while and was about to send someone to urge them on when a troop of soldiers appeared on the street of Tushizi (a densely populated and commercially prosperous street in Bianjing's inner city). Their ranks were perfectly aligned, stretching out like twenty straight lines from afar. Bathed in the rising sun, the Liangshan army appeared even more imposing.

Everyone was deeply impressed by the Liangshan army's disciplined bearing. After the army had passed, Emperor Huizong ordered his palace guards to convey his decree, instructing Zhang Yang to change into the imperial brocade robe bestowed

upon him and come to meet the emperor. Zhang Yang led his troops to the west gate of the inner city, where he halted with his personal guards, while simultaneously ordering Dong Ping to lead the main army to the outer city at a faster pace.

The military officer guarding the west gate of the inner city saw a Liangshan army halt and, while ordering his soldiers on the city walls to strengthen their defenses

, approached to inquire. Zhang Yang, however, answered with the emperor's order. The officer, unsure of the truth and knowing that Wang Fu had been instrumental in Liangshan's surrender, dared not force Zhang Yang and instead sent someone to the palace to verify.

Zhang Yang led his personal guards to the city gate and said to the officer, "I've long heard of the capital's prosperity from Liangshan. Would you allow me to come up to the city wall and have a look?"

The officer, assuming Liangshan had allied with Wang Fu and would surely rise to prominence, laughed and replied, "Of course. The chieftain has naturally accepted the amnesty, and we will serve under him. We will need your continued support in the future."

Zhang Yang thanked the officer and went up to the city wall with Wu Song.

The officer pointed out various sights within the city to Zhang Yang, and the soldiers on the wall lowered their guard. As

the three were admiring the sights, several signal cannon shots rang out from the outer city.

Zhang Yang, having received the signal, drew his sword and seized the officer before he could react. While the other soldiers hesitated, Zhang Yang's personal guards rushed up the wall through the passageway and, after a brief struggle, took control of the city gate.

Seeing that he had control of the city gate, Zhang Yang ordered his men to collect arrows from the city walls while simultaneously directing his personal guards to seize advantageous positions near the gate. The

imperial messenger, arriving near the gate, saw the Liangshan troops commotion and hastily rode towards the palace.

Emperor Huizong was waiting with his ministers in the Wende Hall for Zhang Yang to come to pay his respects when he heard that Zhang Yang had occupied the west gate of the inner city. Enraged, he shouted, "This bandit is fickle and dares to cause trouble in the capital… Should we lead troops to annihilate him?"

Li Gang stepped forward and said, "Your Majesty, please calm your anger. The bandits have only divided their forces to occupy a small part of the inner city; the majority must have already captured the west gate of the outer city. There are also over 100,000 bandits outside the city responding. The outer city will likely be difficult to defend. Your Majesty should quickly send troops from the outer city into the inner city to kill the bandits, then hold the inner city at all costs, and then send messages to all the prefectures to come to the aid of the emperor. Only then can the capital be saved."

Emperor Huizong hesitated upon hearing this, when a general rushed into the hall, kowtowing and saying, "The west gate of the outer city has been captured by the Liangshan bandits, and they are pouring in. Please, Your Majesty, send troops to rescue them."

Li Gang immediately replied, "There is no time to lose! Please, Your Majesty, send troops from the outer city immediately! " "If the troops enter the inner city too late, there is a risk of total annihilation."

Wang Fu, now terrified, crawled to the center and pleaded, "The rebels are powerful. For the sake of the country, I request Your Majesty to move the capital to the Western Capital and then mobilize troops from all directions to encircle and suppress the rebels."

Emperor Huizong, however, was furious. Seeing the instigator of this affair only fueled his anger. He roared, "It's all because of you sycophants and traitors who ruin the country! You flatter and curry favor, ruining the affairs of the court! Take me to Taiyi Palace to hear my punishment. Then order the outer city troops to reinforce the West Gate and make sure to block the rebels. Grand Commandant Duan Chang will lead the Imperial Guards to kill the rebels in the inner city."

Upon hearing this, Li Gang hurriedly stepped forward and pleaded, "The rebels are fierce and brave. If the West Gate falls, the outer city will surely fall. Your Majesty should not waste any more troops."

Although Emperor Huizong had seen Zhang Yang's troops, he still believed that Liangshan was nothing more than a band of outlaws and could not possibly stand against the elite Imperial Guards of the entire country. Ignorance breeds fearlessness. Upon hearing this, he said, "There are many people in the outer city; how can I

bear to let them fall into the hands of bandits?" After saying this, he waved for his generals to go out and prepare.

After Hua Rong's troops entered the city, five thousand men were sent to reinforce Zhang Yang, while the rest joined Dong

Ping in attacking the south gate. The elite imperial guards in the city had already been drawn away by Tong Guan and Gao Qiu, and the remaining soldiers were just pampered old men. They did not resist for long, and the south gate fell, followed by the east and north gates.

Duan Chang's troops arrived at the west gate of the inner city. Seeing that the Liangshan soldiers on the city wall had already drawn their bows and arrows, he dared not risk going in himself. He reined in his horse two hundred paces away, and was about to command his soldiers to attack when a sharp arrow pierced the sky, whistling as it shot straight toward his throat. Before he could dodge, his throat was pierced and he fell from his horse. The remaining officers and soldiers were terrified at the sight. Before they could react, they witnessed Zhang Yang's divine arrows again. Officers of all ranks within three hundred paces screamed and fell to Zhang Yang's arrows.

Most of the Imperial Guard officers were sons of prominent figures in Dongjing (Kaifeng). They were used to bullying the common people, but now, seeing their comrades falling one after another, they no longer cared about their dignity and retreated in unison.

A cowardly soldier is a cowardly one, but a cowardly general makes a cowardly army. Seeing this, the soldiers retreated even more.

Zhang Yang, seeing this, also put away his bow.

The officers of the Imperial Guard's rear guard finally managed to stop the retreat of the vanguard and were about to order their troops to charge when they heard the sound of iron hooves coming from the outer city. It was Hua Rong's reinforcements who had arrived. Seeing the fierce momentum of the Liangshan cavalry, the officers and soldiers did not need to engage in battle. They shouted and scattered.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang also sent a part of his troops to guard the west gate, while he led the rest of his troops to attack the other gates of the inner city.

The Imperial Guards of Tokyo were terrified by Hua Rong's forces even before Zhang Yang's troops arrived. The soldiers at the three gates had already fled at the sound of the attack.

Within an hour, all four gates of the inner city had also been captured by Liangshan.

Chapter Six: Catching a Turtle in a Jar

While Emperor Huizong and his ministers were waiting in the Wende Hall, a messenger reported: "All four gates of the outer city have fallen, and Grand Commandant Duan has been shot and killed by Zhang Yang."

Upon hearing this, Huizong was greatly alarmed, exclaiming, "I never imagined the rebels were so ferocious! What should we do now?"

The civil and military officials, upon hearing the report, were also panicked. Only Li Gang remained relatively calm and stepped forward, saying, "Since things have come to this, we can only gather troops to defend the palace to the death. Fortunately, the palace's defenses are excellent and can hold out until reinforcements arrive."

Huizong, who was at a loss, saw this as a lifeline, like a drowning man grasping at a straw. He immediately said, "I hereby appoint you as the Imperial City Guardian. You can mobilize all the troops within the city. If you can ensure the Imperial City's survival, I will reward you handsomely."

Li Gang thanked the Emperor for his grace, accepted the imperial decree, and left the hall. Hearing the sounds of battle rising from the inner city, he quickly ordered the four gates of the Imperial City closed. Then, Li Gang ordered a troop count within the city.

As soon as Li Gang left, Cai You regained his senses and stepped forward, saying, "Your Majesty, the rebels are powerful, and the imperial city alone may not be able to defend it. If anything happens to Your Majesty, the Song Dynasty will be in grave danger. The rebels have not yet completely surrounded the city. We can order Li Gang to mobilize the Imperial Guards to help Your Majesty break through the encirclement and move the capital to Nanjing. We can then wait for Grand Tutor Tong to lead troops north before retaking the capital."

Emperor Huizong, already disoriented, realized the importance of his own safety after Cai You's words and ordered the palace attendant to summon Li Gang.

Li Gang, busy allocating troops, was summoned by the emperor and had no choice but to run back to the palace.

Seeing Li Gang's face covered in sweat, Emperor Huizong hesitated to speak and gave Cai You a look.

Cai You, however, was cunning. He understood the implication and stepped forward, but instead of revealing his own opinion, he asked, "Lord Li, are you certain you can protect the capital?"

Li Gang, recognizing Cai You as the emperor's favorite, knew his words likely reflected the emperor's will. He immediately replied solemnly, "The rebels are numerous, and the imperial guards within the city number only three thousand. I dare not guarantee success, but I am willing to defend the capital to the death. If we fail, I will die for it."

Cai You praised him, saying, "Lord Li is indeed a loyal and righteous man, a true role model for us all."

Li Gang, about to thank him for the praise, was startled

when Cai You added, "But what if the capital falls, and you die for your country? What will His Majesty do then?"

Li Gang was taken aback. While he was willing to risk his life to defend the city, to ask the emperor to take such a risk would be a grave offense. But if the emperor were gone, the army's morale would collapse, and the capital would be impossible to defend.

Seeing that Li Gang was speechless, Cai You continued, "Lord Li, although you are loyal and brave, you have made a mistake. I believe we should mobilize the Imperial Guards to protect His Majesty in his escape. Once His Majesty reaches a safe place, we can then mobilize elite troops to retake the capital. What do you think, Lord Li?"

Upon hearing this, Li Gang realized that the emperor and his minister were planning to flee. He angrily replied, "Emperor Taizu has ruled for over a hundred years. Although there have been several defeats, no one has ever lightly abandoned the capital. Since there is no precedent, how can we set such a precedent for future generations?"

Emperor Huizong also looked ashamed upon hearing this.

Seeing that Li Gang dared to defy him, Cai You shouted sternly, "Bold Li Gang, do you intend to put the Emperor in danger to gain your reputation as a loyal minister?"

Li Gang also put aside his concerns and kowtowed to Emperor Huizong, saying, "Your Majesty, I only know that when the Emperor is worried, the minister will die. Today, Your Majesty is in danger, and I also have an inescapable responsibility. I am willing to lead troops to defend the capital to the death. If Your Majesty insists on abandoning the state and ancestral temples, you can immediately order the guards to protect Your Majesty and help you break through the encirclement. If we wait for the enemy to surround you, I'm afraid Your Majesty will not be able to escape."

Upon hearing this, Emperor Huizong disregarded Li Gang's choice of words and shouted, "Commander of the Palace Guards, listen to my decree!"

The Commander of the Palace Guards was in charge of all the guards, both inside and outside the palace, and was responsible for the emperor's personal guards and ceremonial procession. Hearing this, he hurriedly stepped forward and said, "Your

Majesty, please wait. The families of all the guards are in Dongjing (Kaifeng). If the palace gates open, they will likely scatter to protect their families. They are truly incapable of fulfilling their duties." Emperor Huizong was taken aback and asked, "Then what should I do?"

Cai You, realizing that escape was hopeless, was at a loss. Amidst the chaos, a general entered and reported, "Grand Tutor Cai wishes to lead his family to the capital to avoid disaster. May I request Your Majesty's decree?"

Upon hearing this, Emperor Huizong hurriedly said, "Quickly, invite the Grand Tutor in."

Li Gang, however, said, "The rebels have likely already breached the inner city. Many officials' families are within the inner city. If the palace gates are opened, they may not be able to be closed. If the rebels seize the opportunity to attack, the capital may be lost."

Upon hearing this, Emperor Huizong hurriedly said, "Since I have appointed you as the Imperial City Guardian, you are in charge of all matters. Go and make the arrangements."

Li Gang replied, "Your Majesty, rest assured, I will do my utmost. However, the city is short of troops. I would like to request Your Majesty to issue an eunuch decree to defend the city."

Emperor Huizong could only rely on Li Gang at this point, and upon hearing this, hurriedly said, "Granted. You may choose any assignments you require without reporting to me."

Upon hearing this, Li Gang went to make arrangements for the defense of the city.

Upon hearing that the emperor refused to open the palace gates and hearing the constant shouts of battle, Cai Jing and the families of his ministers had no choice but to retreat back to their homes.

After Zhang Yang led his troops to capture the four gates of the inner city, he did not rush to attack the imperial city. Instead, he ordered his troops to seal the inner and outer city gates,

post notices to reassure the people, and to recruit and suppress any stragglers. Within an hour, both the inner and outer cities were calmed

. The common people of the outer city, having heard of the Liangshan heroes' righteous deeds, were reassured to see that the Liangshan army had only killed some opportunistic thugs. However, some nobles and wealthy families in the inner city were filled with apprehension. The crisp sound of the patrolling cavalry's hooves seemed to strike their hearts, causing them great anxiety. Only

after the inner and outer cities had calmed down did Zhang Yang lead his troops to approach the imperial city.

The imperial city was five li in circumference, with towers and palaces, ornately decorated buildings, soaring eaves, and vermilion railings—a truly magnificent sight. The city gates were adorned with gold nails and vermilion lacquer, and the brick walls were decorated with engraved iron dragons, phoenixes, and flying clouds.

Seeing the Liangshan army approaching, Li Gang knew the rebels were about to attack the city, and hurriedly ordered the archers on the walls to prepare to fire.

Zhang Yang, gazing at the partial view revealed beyond the city walls, was greatly impressed. Unable to bear the thought of war destroying the imperial city, he spurred his horse forward and shouted, "I am Zhang Yang of Liangshan! Soldiers on the city walls, listen up! The Song Dynasty's fate is sealed; it is destined to perish. If you surrender, you will still enjoy wealth and glory. If you stubbornly resist, once the war begins, you will not escape unscathed!"

Li Gang, hearing this, had an idea. He summoned two skilled archers and asked, "Can you hit him?"

The two, using powerful bows, assessed the distance and replied, "Yes."

Li Gang said, "That's good. Once the bandit leader is dead, the bandits will surely scatter. The fate of the nation rests in your hands. Please, you two, make your move."

The two nodded, each drawing their bows to their fullest extent, aiming intently, and releasing their arrows.

Zhang Yang had already noticed the movements of the two beside Li Gang, but he did not dodge.

Seeing the two arrows about to strike Zhang Yang, Li Gang was overjoyed and about to praise the two men.

But Zhang Yang swiftly caught both arrows with his right hand. He then took the divine crossbow from his saddle and roared, "Behold my divine arrows!" Before

he finished speaking, the two men beside Li Gang screamed and fell to the ground below the city wall.

Li Gang was horrified by Zhang Yang's archery skills, but he did not retreat. He simply ordered his troops to defend the city wall.

Seeing this, Zhang Yang also ordered his men to gather the best archers from each army.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I had an exam today, and I originally wanted to finish writing about capturing the palace, but I didn't have enough time. Please bear with me.

Chapter Seven: A Tragic Death of Admonition.

Li Gang looked at the constantly moving troops below the city wall; his earlier confidence had long since vanished.

Zhang Yang gathered ten thousand archers and shouted towards the city walls, "Surrender now and you may save your life; otherwise, war will be merciless."

The soldiers on the walls were somewhat tempted, but seeing Li Gang patrolling the walls with his sword and no one to lead them, they dared not move, silently praying for divine protection.

Seeing no one answer, Zhang Yang waved for the shield bearers to cover the archers as they advanced.

Li Gang, a scholar, was startled by the sheer number of archers and instinctively shouted, "Take cover!"

The soldiers on the walls, who were preparing to fire, also hid behind the battlements.

The Liangshan archers unexpectedly entered firing range safely. After the rangefinder fired a test shot, they drew their bows to their full extent and fired at the city walls.

Tens of thousands of arrows instantly darkened the city walls, and a dense rain of arrows covered the hundreds of feet of walls to the left and right of Xuande Gate in an instant. The unarmored archers on the city walls suffered heavy casualties, and Li Gang was struck in the right arm by a stray arrow. The excruciating pain nearly made him faint, but his loyalty to his country spurred him to his feet. Just as he was about to order the archers to attack, he saw the archers below retreat like a receding tide.

Seeing many soldiers on the walls fall, wounded by arrows and screaming in agony, Li Gang hurriedly ordered, "Help them immediately!"

Due to the shortage of troops within the city and the need to defend four gates of the imperial city, Li Gang had not deployed any reserves. Upon hearing this, the surviving soldiers on the city walls rushed to help the wounded and fled down the walls.

Seeing Li Gang's command fail again, the officers on the city walls lost faith in the defense.

Zhang Yang spurred his horse forward and, seeing the chaos on the city walls, shouted, "I'll give you half an hour to consider. After that, I'll officially begin the attack. Those in charge on the walls can also consult with that tyrannical Emperor Zhao Ji. If we surrender now, I can still spare his life."

Hearing this, the soldiers on the walls breathed a sigh of relief, greedily inhaling the oxygen they had lost due to the tension.

The chief eunuch, Feng Hao, after being forced to the city walls by Li Gang, was terrified. He had just huddled under the battlements when he saw a junior eunuch beside him pierced by an arrow in the chest, causing him to soil himself in fear. Hearing this, he crawled to Li Gang and said, "I'm afraid the imperial city cannot be defended. Please, Your Majesty, make a decision."

Li Gang smelled the strange odor emanating from his feet and frowned, but he knew the emperor's resolve to resist was already weak. If he were to report this now, the emperor might actually surrender. Upon hearing this, he said, "Since His Majesty has already ordered me to defend the city, how can I trouble him further? Everyone, follow me and defend the city to the death. Anyone who dares to leave the city will be killed without mercy."

The soldiers sighed inwardly upon hearing this.

The eunuchs and palace attendants turned ashen-faced and could barely stand.

Feng Hao, a veteran eunuch serving three emperors, was so arrogant that even high-ranking officials had to fawn over him. He completely disregarded this fourth-rank official and, ignoring his current predicament, shouted, "Do you dare conceal military intelligence?"

Li Gang, who usually dared not offend these troublesome imperial lackeys, was now prepared to die for his country. Seeing this lackey trying to abuse his power again, he retorted, "His Majesty has granted me full authority over the defense of the imperial city. If you disagree, try stepping off this city wall!"

Feng Hao, failing to grasp the situation, scoffed, "I have served three emperors; do I need to defer to a mere Vice Minister of the Court of Imperial Sacrifices?"

With that, he rose and began to walk down the city wall.

Enraged by his arrogance, Li Gang, with a swift movement, raised his sword and felled Feng Hao to the ground.

The people on the city wall, witnessing this, were terrified and dared not utter a sound.

Li Gang was ordering his soldiers on the city wall to prepare rolling logs and stones when a rider galloped up, shouting, "His Majesty summons Li Gang, the Imperial City Garrison Commander, to an audience!"

Li Gang was startled, but dared not disobey

the imperial decree, and rode straight to the main hall. It turned out that the eunuchs, seeing Li Gang guarding the Xuande Gate passageway, had used the opportunity of moving the rolling logs to cover each other, sending one to slip down to the Donghua Gate to report to the emperor, naturally exaggerating the military situation.

When Emperor Huizong heard that a single volley of arrows from Liangshan had caused more than half of his soldiers to be killed or wounded, he hurriedly ordered someone to summon Li Gang.

When Li Gang entered the palace, Emperor Huizong saw the arrow in Li Gang's right arm and became even more convinced. He asked in a trembling voice, "Is the imperial city truly beyond defense?"

Although Li Gang was determined to fight to the death, loyalty ultimately prevailed, and he dared not deceive the emperor. He replied with shame, "The enemy's forces are overwhelming. I underestimated the cruelty of the battlefield. A single volley of arrows from the enemy caused hundreds of casualties in each army. I can only repay Your Majesty with my life."

Upon hearing this, Emperor Huizong sighed and said, "Since that's the case, let's not waste any more soldiers. Open the city gates and surrender."

Li Gang exclaimed in surprise, "Then Your Majesty will be branded a coward. I am incapable of making Your Majesty a wise ruler; how can I bear to see Your Majesty surrender to the enemy and be ridiculed by posterity?"

Although Emperor Huizong had accomplished little in his life, he still longed for lasting fame. His alliance with the Jin to destroy the Liao and restore the Yan and Yun regions stemmed from this ambition. Hearing this, he was also taken aback.

Cai You stepped forward again, saying, "Your Majesty's actions are merely to save the lives of thousands of soldiers; posterity will judge. Moreover, only by preserving Your Majesty's health can you witness the future recapture of the capital by the mighty armies of various prefectures." Emperor

Huizong, who was inherently afraid of death, considered the matter and ultimately decided that his life was of paramount importance. He readily agreed, saying, "Minister Cai is absolutely right. All of you, surrender with me. I have heard that Zhang Yang's benevolence and righteousness are widespread, and I believe I will not make things difficult for you."

Li Gang, hearing that the emperor was truly about to surrender to a bandit, was filled with rage. He gritted his teeth, pulled out the broken arrow from his arm, and a spurt of blood immediately gushed out. Li Gang, ignoring his wounded right arm, pressed an arrow to his throat and said, "If Your Majesty surrenders to the bandits, it will be a scandal for all time. I, your humble servant, have failed in my duty and will have no face to face the world

. I have heard that it is the duty of a subject to die for his principles, and to fight to the death. I will gladly die to persuade Your Majesty to rescind your decree." With that, he thrust his left hand forward, piercing his throat with the arrowhead. Though he was clearly not going to live, his body did not fall to the ground, his eyes fixed intently on Emperor Huizong.

Seeing Li Gang's desperate remonstrance, the assembled officials felt ashamed, and some loyal ministers also pleaded with the Emperor to rescind his decree.

Emperor Huizong wavered, yet he could not bear to abandon this worldly pleasures, and for a moment he hesitated, unable to make a decision.

Cai You stepped forward again, rebuking him: "You only think of your own reputations. If you resist and die at the hands of the rebels, we ministers will gain the reputation of loyal subjects, but His Majesty will be branded as tyrannical and wicked, reaping what you sow. Surrendering now will at least make the soldiers and ministers in the palace remember His Majesty's mercy in saving their lives. Isn't that better than incurring the wrath of Heaven and the resentment of the people?"

Upon hearing this, Emperor Huizong thought to himself: It seems I cannot escape the scorn of posterity after all. It would be better to surrender and live a few more years. He also thought of Gao Qiu's flattering words, "Enjoy life while you can, for life is fleeting. If you do not seek pleasure, you will only regret it in your old age." He made up his mind, but when the words were on the tip of his tongue, he couldn't help but sigh and said, "Ministers, there is no need for further words. Follow me to greet Zhang Yang."

After saying this, he walked outside. When he reached Li Gang's corpse, he only sighed once and did not linger.

Upon hearing this, the ministers all followed Emperor Huizong. However, their moods differed. The eunuchs, having merely changed masters, were not particularly worried, while the ministers who still retained some loyalty sighed deeply. Cai You, on the other hand, considered how to explain to Zhang Yang his merit in persuading Emperor Huizong to surrender.

In a short while, only Li Gang remained, standing alone in the center of the hall.

Emperor Huizong, thinking of becoming someone else's prisoner, was also dejected, his steps naturally slow. Many of the ministers behind him were also old and frail, their pace as slow as a snail plowing a field.

Cai You, however, was eager to claim credit and rewards, yet feared Zhang Yang would begin the attack. Seeing Emperor Huizong listlessly trudging ahead, he said, "Your Majesty, please hurry. If Zhang Yang reaches his deadline, he will likely launch an attack."

Hearing this, Emperor Huizong had no choice but to quicken his pace towards Xuande Gate.

Just as Zhang Yang, seeing that time was running out, was about to order the archers to attack, Xuande Gate slowly opened, and Emperor Huizong led his civil and military officials out to surrender.

Click to view image link: A genius who grew up in the mountains but is considered the only person in this century to have survived independently without ever using any automated devices, comes to city life with his broken, thinking computer, graduates with grades that infuriate the principal, and becomes a military academy teacher. What stories will unfold for him?

Chapter Eight: Strategic Planning

Although the soldiers in the inner and outer cities did not resist for long, the brief fighting had already ignited the ferocity of the Liangshan army. Emperor Huizong, upon leaving the imperial city, felt a chill run down his spine as he was pressed by the Liangshan army's imposing presence, as if a sword were already hanging over his head. His usual imperial majesty vanished, and his legs began to tremble uncontrollably. Looking at Zhang Yang slowly approaching on horseback in the distance, the slight admiration he had shown at Xuande Tower turned into fear. For the first time, his usually dignified face displayed a fawning expression.

Zhang Yang, leading his personal guards and Dong Ping's troops, slowly approached the imperial city, his Overlord Spear seemingly turning unintentionally, but the sunlight reflected from the spearhead constantly stung Emperor Huizong's eyes.

Emperor Huizong, enduring the stinging pain in his eyes and fearing Zhang Yang's broken promise and death, was utterly exhausted, both physically and mentally. Yet, he dared not lower his head to avoid the attack. Finally, when Zhang Yang was within ten feet of him, his knees buckled, and he knelt down, taking the opportunity to blink a few times with difficulty. Those ministers behind him with even a modicum of loyalty, seeing the emperor kneel, dared not stand. Those like Cai You, wishing they could betray their lord for their lives, would never kneel.

Zhang Yang dismounted and helped Emperor Huizong up, saying, "Although you are incompetent in governing the country and have brought disaster to the people, you at least have some sense of the times and saved the lives of so many soldiers in the palace. I have heard that you are devoted to Taoism, so I will send you to the Yuqing Shenxiao Palace in the palace to cultivate immortality

and seek the Tao. Is that alright?" Emperor Huizong, having escaped with his life, no longer cared about the family in the palace and hurriedly kowtowed, saying, "Thank you, Your Majesty. This humble Taoist will go to the Taoist temple to cultivate immortality and seek the Tao. I will not dare to ask about the affairs of the state again."

Zhang Yang nodded in satisfaction and said, "Lehe, you take your team to the Yuqing Shenxiao Palace to arrange for Zhao Ji to cultivate the Tao. Be careful, and do not leave without my orders."

Lehe, being a quick-witted person, hurriedly said, "Don't worry, Chief."

Seeing this, Emperor Huizong also kowtowed to Zhang Yang again, got up, and under the protection of Lehe's hundred-man team, headed towards the Yuqing Zhaoying Taoist Temple in the palace.

Seeing Emperor Huizong leave, Cai You crawled to Zhang Yang's feet and kowtowed, saying, "This humble one, Cai You, pays respects to the new emperor." The other treacherous officials, seeing this, also kowtowed in obeisance.

Zhang Yang, however, shouted, "Guards! Take all the ministers to the Taiyi Palace for investigation!"

The ministers were astonished. Historically, rebels always needed to recruit high-ranking officials from the original dynasty to govern a vast country; hence the many who groveled. While

they were still stunned, a thousand-man squad under Dong Ping rushed forward and dragged them away.

Zhang Yang ordered Dong Ping's troops to take over the defense of the imperial city, and Wu Song to take over the harem. He then summoned Emperor Huizong's guards.

These guards were selected by Emperor Taizu of Song, Zhao Kuangyin, from various armies, choosing brave and robust men as their wives. He also ordered soldiers to choose tall women as their spouses, hoping their descendants would be strong and brave enough to serve as guards for future emperors. (A sigh of relief; it turns out China already had ideas about eugenics!)

These soldiers, knowing the fates of the other ministers, were deeply worried about their own.

Zhang Yang, seeing that these soldiers were all tall and strong, took a liking to them. Seeing their worried faces, he said, "Since you are Zhao Ji's guards, you should be among the elite of the nation, and you will continue to serve as my personal guard. I grant you a day's leave to go home and visit your families. If you are injured or sick, you can go to the palace to see the imperial physicians. Gather at the Donghua Gate at Chenshi the day after tomorrow."

The soldiers were overjoyed to hear that Zhang Yang not only wouldn't punish them but also allowed them to go home to see their families, and they all kowtowed in gratitude to Zhang Yang.

Zhang Yang helped up the generals in front of him and said, "The Central Plains are in chaos, and barbarians are eyeing our borders. This is the time for men to make their mark. You can all go home and settle your families. Soon you will follow me to the frontier

to achieve merit. Who knows, when you return, some of you may have become great generals." At the beginning of the Song Dynasty, the generals often participated in battles, but after the Treaty of Shanyuan, they left the battlefield and became part of the emperor's ceremonial guard

. These generals were all handpicked from across the country, highly skilled in martial arts, and naturally dared not remain idle. Hearing this, their blood boiled. Zhang Yang watched the generals leave the city before ordering Dong Ping's troops to inspect the various palaces.

That evening, Zhang Yang held a grand banquet for the generals in the Jiying Hall. Zhao Mingcheng also brought several friends and his father's students. When everyone was halfway through their drinks, Zhang Yang said, "There are still important matters to discuss today. Everyone, please follow me to the Chongzheng Hall first. We can drink more when the world is at peace."

Hearing this, everyone got up and followed Zhang Yang to the Chongzheng Hall.

Upon arriving at the side hall of Chongzheng Hall, they saw rows of three-dimensional sand table maps displayed in the center.

These maps were first invented by Shen Kuo, and Emperor Huizong later ordered all prefectures to replicate them before presenting them to the imperial palace. It could be said that the geography of the entire country was contained within one room. The generals' eyes lit up when they saw these maps.

Zhang Yang laughed and said, "This is probably the first time you've all seen these maps. They will make marching and fighting much easier. It's a pity they're not convenient to carry around, but don't worry, I won't pre-plan your routes like the Song Dynasty emperors did."

In the past, everyone had only operated within Liangshan, and Zhang Yang had arranged everything properly. But now the world was vast, and the generals were genuinely worried that he might imitate the Song Dynasty again. Hearing this, they breathed a sigh of relief, but naturally dared not say it aloud.

Seeing that everyone still addressed Zhang Yang as their chieftain, Wu Yong said, "As the saying goes, if the name is not correct, the words will not be proper; if the words are not proper, the affairs will not be successful. Since the chieftain has decided to contend for the world, he should establish a national title to reassure the people."

Zhang Yang had already considered this matter, and upon hearing Wu Yong's suggestion, he replied, "Tomorrow, let Zhao Ji write an abdication letter and issue it to the world. Let's change the national title to 'Heaven,' firstly because we previously claimed to be acting on behalf of Heaven, and secondly because he and I have some connection in origin. The national flag will be black with a five-clawed golden dragon in the center, and the policies will be based on the Shandong region."

(Western Christianity also has a Kingdom of Heaven and an Eternal Heaven, etc. The ancients had great reverence for Heaven, which will be convenient for the protagonist to portray himself as a god later.)

Everyone had already heard about Zhang Yang's subjugation of Zhang Shuye and Zhao Mingcheng, and they already believed it to some extent. Hearing him state it again, they couldn't help but feel even more awe.

With the world in chaos, Zhang Yang, though possessing some advantages, also wanted to reassure his generals. Seeing their expressions, he knew he had achieved his goal.

Zhang Yang then discussed a few more details with them before turning to military matters.

Dai Zong pointed to the map and said, "Tian Hu has now captured Zezhou and Huguan, meaning the entire area south of Taiyuan in Hedong (Shanxi) is now in his hands. Wang Qing has also captured Ruzhou, threatening Xijing Henan Prefecture (Luoyang). Since Tong Guan led his troops south, the Western Xia has had 100,000 troops under the command of Xia Chongzong's brother,

Chage, stationed at the Xishoubaotai Military Supervisory Office. Qin Feng's military commissioner, Zhong Shidao, is also on guard in Huangzhou. Tong Guan's army is wiping out the remnants of Fang La's forces in the Zhejiang region. Lin Chong and Yang Zhi's troops have already entered Hebei." Zhang Yang waited for Dai Zong to finish speaking before saying, "Let's hear your opinions."

The group exchanged glances, and Wu Yong spoke first: "Although our dynasty seems to be surrounded by enemies, Tian Hu and Fang La are easily subdued, and Tong Guan's army cannot quickly advance north. Moreover, Bianjing is a fortified city, and Tong Guan cannot capture it in the short term. The crucial..." "It's to prevent invasions from the Western Xia and Liao dynasties. With Wang Huan leading the charge in Hebei, they should be able to seize some key cities before the Liao army attacks. As for the Western Xia, we need to send someone to persuade Zhong Shidao to resist the foreign invasion first."

Zong Ze nodded, saying, "Scholar, you're absolutely right. Internal troubles can be put aside for now, but we cannot let the foreign invaders get away with it."

Zhang Shuye said, "When I was in the Northwest, I had considerable dealings with Zhong Shidao. I can go to the Northwest to persuade him to resist the foreign invaders first. However, most of the troops in the Northwest followed Tong Guan south, so I'm afraid Your Majesty will need to send reinforcements to resist the Western Xia invasion."

Zhang Yang was overjoyed upon hearing this and laughed, "Definitely! As long as Ji Zhong can persuade General Zhong Shidao to resist the Western Xia for a period of time, I will personally lead troops to reinforce him."

Zhang Shuye was greatly relieved to hear that Zhang Yang would personally lead troops to rescue him and immediately accepted the task.

Zhang Yang continued, "Although the offensive within the country can be temporarily halted, we must not allow Tian Hu and Wang Qing to become too powerful. Tomorrow, Huyan Zhuo will lead the six armies of Li Congji, Wang Wende, Yang Wen, Zhang Kai, and Hua Rong to seize Xijing and be ready to reinforce the Northwest at any time. If Tian Hu and Wang Qing's forces capture it first, they will remain in Zhengzhou to await orders. Guan Sheng will lead Han Cunbao, Jing Zhong, Dang Shiying, and Dang Shixiong to capture Huaizhou, and then seize Taihang Pass, advancing north to recover the prefectures and cities captured by Tian Hu. The remaining armies will defend Dongjing."

Upon hearing this, everyone accepted the orders and departed.

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