Zu Dashou, the commander-in-chief of the Ming Dynasty's forward troops in Liaodong and the former general who conquered the captives, was shot in the right arm by a Tatar's dirty arrow when he went out to fight in the city. He didn't pay attention at first.
But after the war, he felt unwell. Although the arrow sores were treated in time, because Jinzhou was besieged for a long time, the city's medical officer unexpectedly died, so the arrow sores could not be completely treated.
In the end, the poison from the dirty arrows invaded the skin. Even though Wu Sangui invited Shi Jianneng, a military medical officer of the Xuanfu, the residual poison from the dirty arrows had already invaded the heart and lung muscles.
Although he cleaned the wound with superb skills, the poison that invaded the heart and lungs could only rely on the power of medicine and stone. To put it bluntly, it was all luck.
If Zu Dashou's own physical fitness was excellent, coupled with the power of medicine and stone, it would be possible to remove the poison from the Tatar's internal arrows from his body.
However, if the body's immunity is insufficient, even with the help of medicinal stones, it will be difficult to completely remove the poison from the dirty arrows, and they will eventually suffer from illness and death.
Zu Dashou was already sixty-three years old at this time. Even though he had served in the army all his life and was physically strong, he was old and weak and was not as good as before. Even though Shi Jian was able to help him debridement and prescribe the best medicine, However, it was not possible to completely remove the toxins that invaded the body.
When Shi Jianneng left Jinzhou, Zu Dashou was still in a very energetic state. Perhaps it was because the arrow sores had been completely cleaned and the itching was no longer unbearable, which made him feel relaxed and refreshed.
But these are just symptoms. The toxins have already invaded the muscles and cannot be driven away by just relying on medicinal stones. Most of the time, this situation depends on luck.
Zu Dashou's good luck was obviously exhausted in his previous military career. Although with his current status and strength, no matter what kind of medicinal materials he used, it was no problem.
Even though there is no shortage of old ginseng from deep mountains that is more than a hundred years old, Zu Dashou's house may even have more stock than the Imperial Palace Hospital, but it is still difficult to save Zu Dashou's life.
On the first day of November, Zu Dashou was in a very good state of mind. Not only did he eat two large bowls of rice porridge, he also ate some meat and drank three small cups of rice wine.
However, only he knows best what his body is like. Although Zu Dashou is in good mental condition, he knows that his body can no longer hold on for long.
So the first thing he did was to send flying cavalry to Songshan Fort and summon Wu Sangui and Zu Dabi to come to Jinzhou quickly and tell them something important.
After receiving the letter, Wu Sangui immediately went to the governor's residence. He wanted to bid farewell to Hong Chengchou and probe Hong Chengchou's tone. Did he have any other instructions?
However, Hong Chengchou did not give him any special instructions. He only told Wu Sangui that he could stay in Jinzhou to take care of Zu Dashou's illness and prevent the slave thieves from returning.
…………
Now in the back room of the governor's quarters, Xie Sixin turned the topic to Zu Dashou, and Li Song immediately added: "I heard that the military medical officer who treated 'Yong Ningbo' for his wounds from the internal arrow was killed. Has your uncle gone to Jinzhou?"
"I was lucky enough to meet this Medical Officer Shi. His medical achievements are indeed extraordinary."
Xie Sixin shook his head and continued: "It's a pity that Mr. Zizheng is not here now. Otherwise, with his life's military experience, he has seen countless battles, not to mention what kind of arrow sores he has never seen, he can help us clear up our doubts. "
Futai Qiu Minyang also responded at this time: "Yes, Mr. Zizheng has been recuperating in Ningyuan since he returned to the capital. I wonder if he is feeling better?"
Li Song continued: "Zheng Weng also sent a letter the day before yesterday. In the letter, he said that he is fine. Ningyuan's affairs have been sorted out a little, and he can come to Songshan to meet us soon."
He then continued: "The political minister also proposed in the letter to supervise the ministers. We can take advantage of the unhealed arrow wounds of our ancestors and ask General Chang Bo to stay in Jinzhou and take command in the name of Liaodong Commander-in-Chief.
In this way, in the name of sharing military affairs with the ancestral commander, the elder brother was actually able to control Jinzhou's army and horses, laying the foundation for future governors to clean up Liaodong's military. "
Qiu Min looked up and stroked his beard and said, "Mr. Liu and I have the same thoughts."
He continued: "Now, General Xiao Cao is at Shanhaiguan, General Wang is stationed at Ningyuan, and Chen Zhongcai has stationed troops and guards in front, and half of Liaodong is under the control of the governor.
This is the best time to start suppressing Liaodong generals and purge Liaodong's military. "
Xie Sixin glanced at Governor Hong Chengchou and saw that although he still had the same kind-hearted expression as before, he still had a dignified demeanor in his elegance.
Seeing that Hong Chengchou had no intention of speaking, Xie Sixin immediately said: "Now that the slave thieves have not retreated, the first priority is to prevent the slave thieves from coming back. Don't lose the big by being small.
As for the future of Liaodong, after the slave thieves really retreat, there will be plenty of time to arrange the layout. Why rush it and be falsely accused of being "unsightly"? "
Qiu Min smiled and said, "I am indeed a little anxious."
Li Song also smiled, but did not say much about the matter. Instead, he turned to look at Governor Hong Chengchou and said, "Governor, would you like to send someone to Jinzhou City to visit Commander-in-Chief, so as to love the lake?" heart of?"
Hong Chengchou showed a smile when he heard the words and said: "This is natural. The ancestor commander is the pillar of the country. He is the fourth generation of Yuanrong. He has guarded the border for our country for more than 200 years and has made outstanding achievements. Since I am here to express my condolences in person, I will not Too much.
It's just that my military affairs are complicated and it's a critical military moment in Liaodong, so it's hard for me to leave. I can't go to Jinzhou in person to express my condolences to my ancestor, and I feel really uneasy. "
When he said this, he turned his attention to Xie Sixin and said to him: "Mr. Xie, please go to Jinzhou for me and express your condolences for me."
Xie Sixin rolled his eyes and knew the meaning of Hong Chengchou's words. He immediately continued: "Please don't worry, Governor. The students will go down and prepare now. They can arrive in Jinzhou before dark. The Governor's love for Zushuai will definitely be preserved." Pass it down word for word to Master Zu."
Hong Chengchou nodded and said to him: "Bring some of the best medicinal materials, especially the best wild ginseng, and bring two to Zushuai."
He then told Xie Sixin: "When you cross the Xiaoling River, go to Yongning Bo's army to have a look, and also express your condolences to the Xuanfu soldiers on behalf of the governor."
"Yes. Students can save the money." Xie Sixin answered.
At this time, Li Song asked again: "Supervisor, Mr. Fang Zhenghua has been urging the army to return to the army. What should we do about this?"
Before Hong Chengchou could speak, Governor Qiu Minyang spoke first: "The slave thieves are very interested in retreating, and it is approaching the severe winter and it is getting colder. I think there will be no major wars in Jinzhou for the time being.
What's more, there are more than ten thousand Ningyuan elite troops from General Chang Bo stationed at the gate of Jinzhou City. Even if the slave thieves come back, they may not be able to get any benefits for a while.
In addition, General Xiao Cao, General Wang, General Chen and other troops are stationed between Songjin and Jinzhou. They can also attack Jinzhou City at any time. Why worry about the slaves coming back? "
Qiu Min looked up at Hong Chengchou as he spoke. Seeing that he did not stop him, he continued: "Although there are nearly 30,000 soldiers and horses in the third town of Xuanda, if they return to the army now, the war in Liaodong will have an impact. Not big."
After hearing what Qiu Minyang said, Li Song seemed to have other ideas, but he just opened his mouth, but the words were not spoken directly.
But his little move could not escape Hong Chengchou's eyes. He only heard Hong Chengchou ask him: "Mr. Zhenzhong, if you have something to say, just say it."
Li Song then raised his fists towards Governor Qiu Min and said: "What Qiu Futai said is indeed true. Xuan's army and horses have withdrawn at this time, which will have little impact on the military in Liaodong. The slaves and traitors have been defeated again, and the weather is getting increasingly cold. I'm sorry. It will not attack again in a big way.
However, the student thought that instead of withdrawing Xuanda's army and horses immediately, it would be better to transfer them to Ningyuan and then return to the division in batches! "
Qiu Minyang fell into deep thought after hearing the words. Hong Chengchou, the governor of Jiliao, was also stroking his beard and nodding. After a moment, he said: "You can adjust the troops and horses of Wang Tingchen to take over from Yongningbo and garrison the Xiaoling River. The rest Each tribe can temporarily camp among the pines, apricots and high bridges."
"The governor has a clear vision!"
…………
Zhang Cheng, the Yongning Bo of the Ming Dynasty, the commander-in-chief of the Xuanfu Army and the general of Zhenshuo, was standing on a mound on the north bank of the Xiaoling River, looking at the groups of capable Xuanfu army officers and soldiers on the river bank, with endless reverie in his heart.
He led 19,000 brave soldiers from Xuanbei to help the Liao Dynasty. After several battles, they won consecutive victories and killed more than ten senior generals below the slave thief Prince Duduo of Yu.
However, of the nearly 20,000 loyal and brave soldiers he brought out, nearly 2,000 were killed in battle, and more than 3,000 soldiers were injured. It is feared that nearly a thousand of them will be discharged due to injuries.
Although he was granted the title of earl by the emperor due to his military exploits, and even promoted to the general of Zhenshuo, these were obtained at the expense of the lives of the Xuanfu soldiers.
"It's true that 'one general can make a thousand bones wither'!"
Zhang Cheng sighed softly and couldn't help but think of Yang Guozhu, the former commander-in-chief of Xuanfu again.
Yang Guozhu led 12,000 elite troops to aid Liao, but he sacrificed his life for the country on the battlefield and left his life forever on the land of Liaodong, staying here to accompany his father, brother, and nephew.
However, Zhang Cheng also took over the command of Yang Guozhu's troops. Although there is still a certain gap in equipment compared with the Xuanbei Army, from the perspective of the quality of the soldiers, they are all superior choices.
In particular, Guo Yingxian, He Zhenxiong, Tang Xiancheng, Kuang Yongzhong and others are all rare generals. What's more, as a team stationed around Xuanfu Town, they will be Zhang Cheng's biggest help after he goes to the town.
Zhang Cheng looked at the direction of Shimen Mountain and secretly warned himself in his heart: "I will never let Yang Guozhu die in vain, and I will never let Yang Guozhu live up to his instructions. I will definitely lead his troops well and lead them to conquer the bandits and conquer the Tartars.
Avenge Yang Shuai and strive for a peaceful and prosperous age for all people in the world! "
…………
Zhang Mingyuan rode forward and shouted loudly: "Commander father, General Wang Tingchen, the commander-in-chief of the Ningyuan Assistant Guards, has arrived."
Only then did Zhang Cheng wake up from his deep thoughts. He waved his hand and said, "Let's go with me to meet General Wang."
Hearing this, Zhang Chengfang hurriedly led Zhang Cheng's war horse. It was a black and white horse with a chrysanthemum pattern. It was one of the eight horses given by the current Emperor Chongzhen when he was awarded a title in Songshan.
This color of war horse is commonly known as "Chrysanthemum Green", but Zhang Cheng gave his mount another name, "Bi Cong Ju".
In the previous battle with slave thieves in Jinzhou South, Zhang Cheng's original mount was injured while protecting his master, and he had to replace another war horse. Originally, there were two war horses in the army, which Zhang Cheng left for himself as a spare.
But after sending Songshan Castle to pick up the war horse given by the emperor, he took a fancy to the "chrysanthemum green" at a glance and took it as his new mount.
Before leaving Songshan Fort, Xie Sixin came to practice for him. Seeing that he had taken this horse as his new mount, he asked Zhang Cheng if he had given the chrysanthemum green a name.
Zhang Cheng replied naturally: "If you take it, call it 'Chrysanthemum Green'."
Xie Sixinyan quit at that time, and started telling Zhang Cheng the story based on the "Horse Sutra". Finally, he strongly suggested that Zhang Cheng name the new horse "Bi Cong Ju".
Zhang Chengyuan knew very little about the "Horse Book", and he heard that the "Bi Cong Ju" was indeed more elegant and louder than the chrysanthemum green, so he named the war horse "Bi Cong Ju" as he said.
Now, he took the reins from his adopted son Zhang Chengfang, and with a beautiful leap, he climbed onto the horse's back. His legs lightly knocked on the horse's belly, and the green horse galloped down the mound with its hooves raised.
Zhang Chengfang hurriedly led dozens of personal guards, called to Zhang Mingyuan at the foot of the mound, and rode off in pursuit.
…………
On the ninth day of November, the military camps outside Ningyuan City were connected. All the Xuanfu army camps had completed their defense changes and gathered here.
The troops from Datong Town and Shanxi Town had set off two days ago, but the two generals, Wang Pu and Li Fuming, did not return with the army.
Their idea was actually very simple, that is, they wanted to take this opportunity to spend more time with Yongning Bo Zhang Cheng, so they only sent their own generals to lead the army first, leaving only more than a hundred servants and elite cavalry in Ningyuan City.
In addition, Chen Jiugao, the commander-in-chief of the Shenji Battalion of the Beijing Camp, and Fu Yingchong, the deputy general, were also in Ningyuan City at this moment because they were withdrawing their troops with Zhang Cheng and others.
Although Liu Zhaoji, the new commander-in-chief of Jizhen, had not received the order to withdraw his troops, his troops had been stationed at Tashan Fort. When Zhang Cheng passed Tashan, he sent Zhang Cheng all the way to Ningyuan.
Together with Zuo Guangxian, the new commander-in-chief of the Liaodong regiment, he also led dozens of family guards to Ningyuan to see Zhang Cheng off.
Like Liu Zhaoji, he came not only to congratulate Zhang Cheng on being granted the title of Yong Ningbo, but also to thank Zhang Cheng for his help when he returned to the rescue last time. Especially Liu Zhaoji, who was able to be transferred to the post of Commander-in-Chief of Jizhen due to his merits was actually all thanks to Zhang Cheng. rescue.
The last time the slave thief Prince Duduo of Yu led his troops to make a surprise attack on Xingta. If Zhang Cheng had not led his troops to rescue him in time, there is no telling whether Liu Zhaoji would have escaped with his life. If the grain stored on Bijia Mountain had been taken away or burned by the slave thief.
Even if Liu Zhaoji didn't die on the battlefield, he might not be able to escape Hong Chengchou's punishment and the court's sanctions. In the end, he might end up with his head missing and his body dismembered.
Although Zuo Guangxian did not receive direct help from Zhang Cheng, first of all, his Wudaoling defense line was established by Zhang Cheng's help. Secondly, when Man Dahai led the Zhenghong Banner Tatars to cross Wudaoling and raid Gao At the time of Qiao and Tashan, Zhang Cheng also arrived in time and was able to save the grain storage on Beacon Mountain.
Otherwise, how could he be freed from the charge of Zuo Guangxian's failure to stop the enemy?
(End of chapter)
