Chapter 3: The Mountain People (Part One)
Adults, at the beginning, we were recruited with a very clear purpose, which was to assist the leader in earning some provisions. Life in the mountains is indeed quite difficult, as food production is limited. It used to be manageable, but now with the increasing population, one must venture out of the mountains to earn a living for the family. Perhaps as we approach home in the mountains, He Qi's tone has become somewhat stronger.
This is a village situated on a hillside, featuring several earthen walls and a number of buildings that are faintly visible, giving the impression of a considerable scale
Half an hour later, the mountain dweller reported: "No enemies have been detected. We can return this way and reach the mountain stronghold by evening"
He Qi was momentarily taken aback, but this person indeed had some insight. After a brief pause, he quickly responded: "Yes, my lord, He Qi is indeed ranked seventh, but this is not in the family ranking; rather, it is in the clan's ranking among the younger generation."
Although the likelihood is low, it is still advisable to check first to avoid encountering enemy troops. Wang Shoutian once again halted the decision for everyone to set off immediately and sent someone to investigate the situation outside
He Zong took it and first handed it to Wang Shoutian
There are indeed systems within the military, and since this is the rear camp, the supply of provisions is certainly ample. This time, there was no opportunity to move everything into the mountains, so we will take only the essentials with us
"Don't be so polite, the soup is ready. Ladle out the best broth, and I will take it over to Young Master and Brother He together," said the bench.
He has already entered. He Zhong's gaze remained fixed on He Qi, and upon seeing him finally enter the mountain gate, he quietly asked Wang Shoutian beside him: "Young official, will they really agree to our request?"
Based on current experience, mountain dwellers are different from ordinary people. Ordinary people mostly exhibit a trace of white vapor, while mountain dwellers, who may be resistant to control, predominantly show a trace of gray vapor
The meal includes dried beef, lamb spine, venison, and wheat cakes, which is quite good
Su Hu, closest to the meat soup pot, murmured to himself but still took action, ladling out the meat soup.
This means that he does not feel the slightest bit strange
However, historically, Wang Shoutian was indeed too young; according to his physical age, he was only sixteen years old. This time, after suffering a great defeat and having to send the governor to battle despite his illness, it ultimately led to his serious condition, and he passed away the following year
However, Su Hu still wanted to say something
"Are we about to set off, sir?" Zhang Yi inquired, looking at the date.
The following conversation was rather casual; after all, the mountain dweller is just a mountain dweller. With a little grace bestowed upon him, he began to speak readily.
However, upon this observation, it was immediately apparent that this person's complexion was markedly different from the dim and indistinct hues of the other mountain dwellers. This individual had a faintly reddish white line atop their head, suggesting that they would undoubtedly achieve great things in the future and would not remain confined to the status of a commoner.
As we approached, we saw someone shouting from the arrow tower on the stockade, vigilantly holding a bow and arrow
What appeared was He Qi, and the people inside quickly opened the door to let them in. However, due to the unclear situation, these individuals were cautiously observing everyone.
Wang Shoutian nodded slightly, not thinking it excessive, and said: "Go ahead!"
Looking down at his feet, Wang Shoutian appeared to be deep in thought
At noon, everyone takes a break
Wang Shoutian intends to leverage the power of the bandits to counterattack the enemy, but He Zhong is not very optimistic about this matter
Although an agreement had been reached with the librarian and the mountain dwellers in the morning, this matter is quite significant and naturally requires further confirmation
Thinking of this, Wang Shoutian's gaze became profound; changing one's destiny must begin with the smallest details
Eleven guards, still clad in leather armor, occasionally scanned their surroundings with vigilant eyes
On this day of marching, in order to evade the enemy's forces, they chose to take the less traveled paths as much as possible. By the end of the day, everyone was both exhausted and weary
At this moment, Wang Shoutian solidified his determination to enter the mountains
"Hey, don't you think that guy has changed a bit after waking up?" One of the bodyguards, Su Hu, whispered as he nudged the bench next to him, which was busy eating.
He was not unfamiliar with the mountain dwellers, having dealt with an elder from their community. He had never even seen the appearance of their village, yet despite this, after some negotiations, he gained a considerable understanding of the cunning that lay behind the simple facade of the mountain people. In such circumstances, would these mountain dwellers truly assist them
Without permission, he cannot bring anyone, especially not a large group into the mountain stronghold
Wang Shoutian slightly lowered his gaze, indeed, this person's control is quite impressive
Indeed, it is quite different now
Although this village and its arrow tower are rudimentary, having them makes a significant difference compared to not having them at all. With skilled hunters from the mountains guarding it, it is likely that without at least 500 soldiers, it cannot be taken down
According to information from previous lives, since the death of the governor's only son in a horse riding accident last year, although the governor has nominally selected several nephews from the same clan for training and to choose an heir, in reality, Wang Shoutian, as an illegitimate child, has already been designated as the heir.
Not to mention anything else, the Wenyang County where this town is located originally encompassed seven counties. However, due to a significant decline in population, only the relatively core four counties have been preserved
"What is your name, He Qi? Could it be that you are the seventh in your family?" Wang Shoutian suddenly looked at this person and asked
At this moment, the two pots on the stove were steaming with vapor.
Su Hu felt quite frustrated when his words were ignored by others: "Hey, Bench, don't you think so?"
In just a short while, the mountain dwellers had already received the news; however, only He Qi had come over.
He Wulang is merely a typical example; alongside his speculation, many mountain dwellers have also risen to prominence
Thank you, my lord! He Qi cupped his fists in salute, sat down, took the bowl, and drank a mouthful of meat soup
After Wang Shoutian had his drink, the bench then served the second and third bowls to He Zhong and Zhang Yi. This was quite normal, though there was a slight difference in their official ranks, as Zhang Yi held a higher position than He Zhong.
The shade of the trees is dense, the mountain breeze is gentle, and Wang Shoutian is lost in silent contemplation
Beyond the mountains and forests, one can see the vast expanse of land. This was once a fertile area, but unfortunately, due to the private wars among the various towns, it has turned into a wasteland
What kind of changes, the bench cannot articulate, but often accompanying my father to medical appointments has allowed me to see the world. Often, those of certain status tend to have this feeling.
"You certainly look like a strong man; you must be a rare talent in your clan," Wang Shoutian said with a smile.
However, as a personal guard sergeant, this is different from an ordinary sergeant, and it is acceptable.
The bench caught a glimpse of He Zhong's gaze, standing to the side, unable to resist stealing another glance at Wang Shoutian, and then immediately lowered its eyes, lost in thought.
I have met the esteemed personage. He Qi hurriedly stepped forward to pay his respects
Wang Shoutian listened and glanced at him
Finally arrived, finally home! Looking at the village ahead, the mountain dwellers displayed expressions of excitement
Many pieces of information have thus been obtained from https://m.hetushu.com
Although the bench said that to Su Hu, in reality, it had some thoughts about Wang Shoutian's changes in its heart
Ordinary people can only eat dry rations, while Wang Shoutian, Huo Chang, and Wu Chang can drink meat soup. This time, there are various types of jerky, along with some mushrooms and wild vegetables found in the valley, creating a fragrant aroma
In the memories of a past life, after the conclusion of this battle, the surrounding areas fell into chaos, providing many civilians with opportunities to rise. In the aftermath, many began to shed their identities as commoners
No! He Zhonqyi turned his head and saw that Wang Shoutian's expression was calm, with less arrogance and more composure and authority, causing a shiver in his heart
Looking at the young official who was chatting happily with the mountain villagers, Su Hu glanced at He Zhong, who was standing guard beside Wang Shoutian, and stroked his chin
At dusk, Hejiazhai finally arrived
This is fate, and also coincidence. Presumably, apart from He Wulang, other mountain dwellers also possess some seeds.
Holding food in hand while sitting on a bench, he merely glanced up and then continued to eat with his head down
At present, everyone is having lunch in a valley.
The bench finally swallowed the dry food in its mouth and shot a glance at Su Hu, saying: "The young official is a relative of the general. It is said that there are specialized teachings. At first, he may not have been familiar, but he should be accustomed to it by now"
"Sir, I will first enter the stronghold and inform my elder brother. The stronghold has several defenses, and if it were anyone else, the guards would likely not easily believe them." He Qi looked at the familiar stronghold before him, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. He turned around and began discussing with Wang Shoutian, who was standing beside him.
In ancient times, ordinary people had an inherent reverence for scholars and bureaucrats. The changes in Wang Shoutian did not seem particularly remarkable to him.
Wang Shoutian hastily ascended to power, with an unstable foundation, resulting in his eventual downfall
Speaking of that person, He Qi could not help but reveal an expression of envy and admiration on his face
Although no enemies were detected, the cautious attitude displayed by Wang Shoutian still left some people pondering
As soon as He Zhong received the bowl, he frowned and glanced at the bench. The soup appeared to be the same, and even the young gentleman's bowl had a bit more, but he knew that his own bowl contained the real substance
Wang Shoutian's smile evidently eased He Qi's previously tense mood. He shook his head and said: "In response to your question, among our clan, the most outstanding person is my cousin. Although he is ranked fifth, he is one of the best in the clan, admired by all and commands everyone's obedience."
If this issue can be resolved swiftly, it will not only consolidate one's own position and authority, but also allow the regional governor to remain in power for a longer period, thereby ensuring a smooth transition between the old and the new.
"Young official, the meat soup is here!" The stool-bearer held the bowl and walked over, pretending to casually glance at the young official.
Wang Shoutian nodded and said: "No need for formalities, please sit down and speak. Here is a stool, and I will bring you a bowl of meat soup... How is the situation in the mountains now?"
It seems that the guards of every military governor are exceptionally elite, one in a hundred! Wang Shoutian thought to himself: "However, what a pity."
The face remains the same, yet the feeling it conveys has changed
"Call He Qi over here." Wang Shoutian did not notice this subtle distinction, sipping the meat soup while speaking softly.
He Qi then led these mountain villagers towards the mountain stronghold
This mountain cannot be considered high, yet it features steep cliffs and sheer walls. Below lies an expanse of boundless wild grass and dense thickets. In early autumn, before the leaves begin to fall, the wild grass is interspersed with small red flowers, evoking a sense of openness and comfort in the chest