Chapter 2, The Post Station

Perhaps it is that common people are inherently weak, and upon seeing bloodstains, more individuals cannot help but cry out loud

Regardless, I went to Liaoxi County, which belongs to the Youyun Province, Changli Prefecture, located to the east of Youyun City. It is indeed not the front line at this moment.

You have returned, adult

If it is difficult for you, then consider that I have said nothing. Zhang Rui, seeing Han Dong hesitate, added, Thank you for your life-saving grace.

Several refugees were terrified by the situation, and faint sounds of weeping could be heard nearby. Zhu Er drew his knife without a word, and with one swift stroke, the head of the refugee fell to the ground, accompanied by warm blood that melted the snow on the ground.

"You lowly peasants, all you do is cause trouble for me. If it weren't for me, you would have long since perished. Hurry up and get lost!" The station master shouted angrily at the refugees.

"Creak, creak," the sound of footsteps crunching on the snow came closer from a distance. The station master, with his keen ears, would not have been appointed to this position if it weren't for his sharp hearing. He hurriedly lit a lantern and stepped out to look towards the official road in the north.

Be quiet and stop talking nonsense

The station master hesitated as he looked at Han Dong

"Sir, can we accompany you to battle? To avenge the people of our village?" Zhang Rui looked at Han Dong eagerly

Han Dong pressed against the wall, listening intently, the foul odor of the restroom wafting around him, and from time to time, he could hear the sounds of "puff" and "puff".

Please take your time, I will prepare it right away.

Alright, you really know how to talk. This time, I won't bother with you lowly commoners, it would dirty my hands. The leader signaled Zhu Er to stop killing and continued to address the station master, saying, "You, I am very pleased."

A figure appeared in the south. The station master looked at the person wearing a bamboo hat and a long coat, and asked, "Who are you? Dare to meddle in your uncle's affairs?"

Zhang Rui spoke while performing a deep bow to Han Dong, who quickly helped him to his feet

How?

"My lord, we truly have nowhere to go," Zhang Rui said as he knelt before Han Dong. "I see that you are a good person; could we possibly..."

"Young master, the second floor has already been given to those inside. However, the right room on the first floor is still available. Nevertheless, these few people..." said the station manager, pointing at the six vagrants.

Han Dong approached quietly and pressed himself against the wall to listen intently

The station master, upon witnessing the situation, could not help but feel a sense of dread. Approaching the leader, he bent slightly and said, "Sir, you have been traveling all day in this cold weather. It is not worth delaying your rest for these lowly commoners. Why not allow us to assist you? Moreover, the blood of these commoners would stain your hands and feet." As he spoke, the station master quickly crouched down and took out a handkerchief to wipe the bloodstained shoes of the leader.

Zhang Rui, seeing Han Dong hesitating, said again, "Sir, I have studied for a few years and can help you write some things."

Let us not mention that Zhangye is far from here, a distance of one or two thousand miles. We are deserters; the troops from Xiliang have been fighting against the court for three or four years and have yet to be defeated. Would they take us seriously?

I call you "Big Brother," of course I trust Big Brother.

The person inside asked, so just say it was me who said it, but if they don't ask you, there's no need to speak out of turn. Han Dong said impatiently to the person in charge of the post station

"How could it be you?" Han Dong turned around and saw Zhang Rui, quickly asking, "You scared me so much that I couldn't even finish peeing."

In the morning, after bidding farewell to Liu Yuan, I have been walking along this deserted official road.

Thank you, my lord. As he spoke, Zhang Rui was about to kneel again, but Han Dong quickly pulled him up

So, brother, where do you think we should go

Han Dong slowly retreated, standing in the open space to the east of his house to unfasten his pants and urinate

My lord, the supply at the post is scarce, and it is deep winter. There are hardly any vegetables, and some have been requisitioned for the front lines. I hope you will understand the limited availability of food." The courier placed the meal on the table and spoke to Han Dong with his head lowered

The station master quickly stepped back and turned to leave.

"This young master, you..." The station master looked at Han Dong with difficulty and said, "Aren't you making it difficult for the young one?"

"This ... ..." Han Dong pondered hesitantly

Han Donglai has not practiced writing much in this world. Every time Liu Yuan says that his handwriting is too poor, it is unacceptable, but he cannot improve. However, it is still acceptable to bring them along, and he even found a scribe.

There are quite a few sycophantic remarks at the meeting

The person at the forefront, rugged and imposing, with a large knife at his left waist, is clearly the leader, as the station master does not need to think much about it. He quickly leads a few people inside.

They have handed it over to me," Han Dong said to the station master, "You need not concern yourselves with it any further

The station master glanced at the package behind Han Dong, its edges pointing upwards, clearly a bow and arrow. He also had a knife hanging at his waist, and there was even a patch of blood stuck to his left leg

Another refugee hurriedly pulled him down to sit, "Do you want us all to die? Sit down!"

Han Dong heard the deserter in the front hall speak and instructed Zhang Rui and the others to return to their rooms to rest, before going back to his own room.

The station master, seeing that these refugees did not dare to act recklessly, ignored them and called three post attendants to go back to sleep. In such cold weather, no noble would come to rest here.

Han Dong is aware of the terror associated with deserters. In the military, military law is the most severe. Deserting in the face of battle and being caught results in the death penalty. It is precisely this aspect that makes deserters terrifying; once captured, they face execution, which leaves them with no concerns, making them bold enough to kill and rob. Ordinary people would not dare to provoke them, and they are also unreasonable. Encountering them without incident is considered fortunate.

The place where I live is at the back, with a horse trough in front; however, during this time of war, the horses have already been requisitioned by the logistics troops of the border army. There is also an empty room, but it hasn't been tidied up for a long time. The station master was leading Han Dong and others towards the back while introducing the surroundings.

The small residence is located at the back, and the space is quite large, sufficient for the elder to rest

Elder brother, there will definitely be many border troops on the way back to Dingxiang, being captured could lead to execution

Indeed, the adult is wise

Our hometown is in the province of Yunchong. This time, the marauders have already breached our hometown, so ... ...

It is unknown when the snow began to fall again, and the flurries of snowflakes make the entire night appear exceptionally quiet

Looking at the road ahead, it was already nearing evening, yet I had not yet reached the inn. Considering the cold of this winter day, and the possibility of snow later, I certainly could not spend the night in the snow. Thus, I quickened my pace.

After hearing this, Han Dong thought that the deserter who had just called out was definitely feeling disdain, and indeed, this was the case at this time. He did not think much of it and said, "Is there any more hot porridge? Please serve me another bowl."

"Sir, we truly have nowhere else to go, you see..." Zhang Rui said hesitantly while looking at Han Dong.

"You take it, and just take it, why are you dawdling?" Han Dong continued to speak to the station master in front of him, "Prepare some food and wine for me to send to my room, and also prepare some for them. Remember not to say too much."

After a while, I heard someone knocking at the door and thought it was the inn staff bringing the food and drinks, so I said, "Come in"

Zhang Ruizheng was speaking when he was interrupted by a rough voice that came from the front of the post station, "Someone, bring some wine and dishes for the gentlemen"

What is it? Is it so difficult to speak up? Han Dong smiled as he looked at Zhang Rui

That is good, add a little more for them.

"The youth has tried, but he is still just a student." Zhang Rui thought for a moment and said to Han Dong, "Later, he prepared to participate in the provincial examination, but coincidentally, there was a mourning period, so he returned home to observe filial piety"

Having finished speaking, the leader turned and walked into the house

"That's fine, let those few stay in that vacant room," Han Dong said, pointing to the empty room that the innkeeper had just introduced.

Elder brother, what should we do if Juqu Xun truly attacks Pingcheng?

On winter days, the darkness falls particularly early. The station master glanced disdainfully at a few vagrants squatting on the right side outside the door and said, "Leave, leave, this is a relay station, not a granary. Hurry up, hurry up, I am about to close the door."

When you leave tomorrow, change into the commoner's clothes to avoid drawing attention with this outfit

Han Dong picked up the White Dragon Blade, reflecting on the scene at their parting, yet could only shake his head in resignation

Upon hearing Han Dong's inquiry about himself, the leader replied, "My lord, I am Zhang Rui."

The station master, upon seeing this, quickly exclaimed, "This young master, please forgive me. I was unaware that you were a young master from the military academy. I hope for your understanding"

You few should also take a rest; if there is nothing to do, do not wander aimlessly.

Then you say, where shall we go

Elder brother is thoughtful

"Alright, alright, it's nothing to worry about." Han Dong hurried over as he saw them kneeling and urged them to get up, "What is your name?"

The remaining six refugees quickly got up and were preparing to crawl away towards the distance.

"It's nothing, but you mustn't do it again next time. It's not good to scare someone into having problems. This thing is quite precious," Han Dong said with a smile.

Is there still a place to stay

However, Han Dong had never been to Liu Yuan's home, and thus could not have met Liu Yuan's father. Just as Liu Yuan mentioned when he sent him off, it had been four years, and Liu Yuan had invited him to celebrate the New Year at his home four times, yet he had not gone even once, and this time was no exception. Even when Liu Yuan returned, he mentioned that his father wanted to meet him; however, he ultimately found an excuse to decline. It was not out of modesty, but rather because he genuinely had matters to attend to, which he was aware of.

"Alright, alright, what would the young master like to eat?" Upon hearing Han Dong's words, the innkeeper felt relieved.

The six refugees, seeing that no one was nearby, spontaneously knelt down and said, "My lord, we are unable to repay your great kindness and virtue. In this life and the next, we are willing to serve you as cattle and horses."

"What is the reason for this?" Han Dong pointed at them and said, "How have you become refugees?"

Please give me that steamed bun again

"Understood, sir," the station master replied promptly, lowering his head.

Elder brother, this bandit has already breached Yunzhong, and it is estimated that in a few days our hometown of Dingxiang will also be attacked. Where do you think we should go

The interior furnishings are simple, with a table in the center of the hall and two armchairs on each side, clearly made of poplar wood by a rural carpenter. On the left side, there is a wooden table surrounded by several chairs, and against the wall, there is a tall writing desk with some documents on it, seemingly related to the station's records. Behind it stands a high-backed chair. On the right side, there is a bed, separated from the hall by a wooden screen, which features scenes of springtime revelry.

Then let us return

"Alright." Han Dong waved his hand to signal the six refugees to get up, "This is five taels of silver; I will not treat you unfairly." As he spoke, Han Dong took out a silver ingot from his bosom.

"Zhu Er, do you believe in your elder brother?"

The courier hurriedly ran to bring a few soldiers into the post station

"Zhang Rui." Han Dong repeated the name, thought for a moment, and said, "Zhang Rui, a good name; surely he must have read books, right?"

After Zhang Rui left, Han Dong also did not stay up late. He entered the right room, lay down on the bed, took off his clothes, and burrowed into the quilt

"Dingxiang is located to the northwest in the clouds, while Pingcheng is situated to the south in the clouds. How could the barbarian invaders forsake the opportunity to advance southward and instead head west? Moreover, what kind of troops are stationed in Dingxiang? You are not unaware of this."

The biting wind raged, and snowflakes danced; after a day of swirling snow, it finally came to a halt in the evening.

"It is not that I do not wish to accept you." Han Dong said to Zhang Rui, "I am going to the front lines to fight, which is very dangerous."

The bloodied head rolled to the feet of the leader, who glanced at it and forcefully kicked it towards the southern wilderness, where it landed with a thud in the open ground

Did you not take the examination for a degree

"My apologies for frightening you, esteemed sir," Zhang Rui quickly said with a smile.

We only have a few days left, and we still can't enjoy ourselves. What if we get caught...

Elder brother, it is important to understand that Juqu Xun would not abandon a soft approach to launch a strong attack on Pingcheng. A direct confrontation is certainly not feasible; we should refrain from returning to Dingxiang.

Han Dong entered the place where the former station master used to live and pushed the door open

Please take us inside

It's nothing, I thought about it, if it really doesn't work, I can enter the grasslands from Dingxiang and become a bandit.

"I have acted rashly, please forgive me!" Han Dong, upon hearing Zhang Rui mention the matter of mourning, could not help but bow and apologize.

Han Dong finished urinating, turned around, and returned to the house with Zhang Rui

The forces of the Wang of Langya are in Qingzhou, which is close to the Eastern Capital, and the authorities will soon dispatch troops to suppress them

"What is going on?" Han Dong asked the station master, looking at the six vagrants behind the courier.

Zhu Er, I think this thief will definitely not return to Dingxiang

Han Dong had been walking for a day and was feeling a bit tired, so he set down the document, leaned back in his chair, and closed his eyes to rest.

The station master, holding a dim lamp, glanced into the distance and observed that there were indeed no distinguished guests on the official road. He then turned around, preparing to return, and as he passed by the refugees, he disdainfully spat on the ground.

Elder brother, do you think what I am saying is nonsense? With the fall of Yunzhong, the court will surely send people to reclaim it, and the troops in Dingxiang, Pingcheng, and the Youyun border will also increase. If we go, we will definitely encounter the border troops.

Upon seeing the first-class citizen, he immediately stood up

The six refugees hurriedly knelt down before Han Dong, and one of them said, "Thank you, my lord, thank you, my lord"

They, you don't need to worry about them for now. Is there a quieter place?

Han Dong walked slowly to the station master and took out a card from his package, presenting it before the station master's eyes

Han Dong thought to himself that this small station master indeed possessed some talent. Although the interior was simple, it was not chaotic; the furnishings were straightforward yet orderly. This station master was also a minor character.

Please provide the text you would like to have translated from Traditional Chinese to English.

From the gate of the post station, three couriers rushed out, looking at the refugees and shouting at them.

A sudden sound of "Aiyo" came from behind, startling Han Dong. If it were an assassin, Han Dong's life would be over.

"Zhu Er, behead these few people for me, so they do not become an eyesore." The leader glanced back at the refugees sitting in the corner as he spoke.

The refugees who stood up looked at the three post attendants and, feeling indignant, sat back down

Upon hearing Han Dong's instructions, Yiding quickly stood up and replied, "My lord, everything has been delivered"

It is hard to say; we are now approaching the Youyun Province, and it is also close to Pingcheng, making this place unsafe.

"Speak, what is it that you need from me?" Han Dong asked as he and Zhang Rui entered the room.

Or should we go to Zhangye Province, where Lü Guang's Xiliang also requires troops?

"Hurry up and lead the way for the military officer, and be sure to provide him with proper hospitality," the station master said to one of the post boys beside him.

In a moment, four or five figures appeared a couple of zhang to the north. As they approached, it became clear that all five were dressed in border military uniforms. Although they lacked epaulettes, the frayed threads on their shoulders unmistakably indicated their identity. The station master, having seen countless people come and go, immediately recognized these individuals as deserters.

Han Dong heard from their conversation that Yunzhong had already been occupied, taken by Juqu Xun. He had heard of Juqu Xun during class; as they said, he only picks on the weak. However, this time, it would not be easy for him to take Yunzhong alone, and it is possible that there are others backing him.

The person walking from the south is Han Dong

In response to your inquiry, I have attended school for a few days in the past, having studied at a private school in the village during my childhood

This, brother, just in case

"What, do you want to rebel? Someone come!" the station master glared fiercely at the refugees as he spoke.

On the official road, there were no pedestrians. Looking back, only two crooked lines of footprints extended forward. Han Dong turned his head to glance at the road ahead and continued walking forward

The small one understands

The station master quickly said, "Lower your voice, young sir, they are inside." As he spoke, he gestured with his chin towards the interior.

Han Dong looked at the dishes on the table, wondering when he had become such an eater. If he continued to eat like this, he would end up as fat as Liu Yuan. Han Dong chuckled to himself.

Alright, you may go

The station and the person in charge of the library quickly provided an explanation to this young master

"Are you saying that you want to follow me?" Han Dong articulated on his behalf

"I will go now," said the person, and then turned around to open the door and leave.

"Sir, there is no need for such formalities. You have saved us; you are our reborn parents, how could we dare to accept such great courtesy from you?" Zhang Rui quickly interjected, "Three years later, after the mourning period is over, I was preparing to go to the provincial capital to participate in the local examination when this incident occurred."

After finishing his meal, Han Dong went out to use the restroom and prepared to sleep

Why

Zhu Er, let us take the small path, and remember not to cause any more trouble

What should we do if we encounter the border troops

What are you all doing

What I mean is that we should continue heading south, avoiding the official roads. We can go after the troops of the Wang family from Langya in the Qingzhou province. How can we possibly compare to a group of lowly commoners?

Han Dong thought that the military did not prohibit bringing people along; it is permissible to bring attendants, and he should be able to communicate effectively once he arrives

Zhang Rui chuckled upon hearing Han Dong's joke.

The station master quickly called over the station attendants to guide the several soldiers before him

Then I shall accept you all

As five individuals passed by the beggar, one of them accidentally bumped into him. The soldier, upon seeing this, drew his knife and shouted, "Which bastard dares to trip your lord? Are you tired of living?"

Han Dong strolled over to the desk in the left chamber and sat down, casually flipping through the documents on the table. There was not much content, mainly concerning certain officials passing through for hospitality, requests for horses to supplement the front lines, and so on.

Just as I stepped out, upon reaching the side of the restroom, I heard fragmented voices carried by the cold wind

Then, let's leave early tomorrow, heading west, taking the small path, to Dingxiang

Han Dong opened his eyes and saw on the table a plate of beef, a plate of peanuts, two steamed buns, a bowl of porridge, and a jug of wine

"I came here to express my gratitude, and I also have a small, perhaps inappropriate request..." Zhang Rui said, lowering his head and speaking hesitantly.

Han Dong walked out from behind the copywriting desk, sat down beside the dining table, and picked up a steamed bun to eat

"Wait a moment." Han Dong was still chewing on a steamed bun. After finally swallowing it and taking a sip of porridge, he continued, "Have the meals for the few people I brought been delivered?"

After a while, the station master looked at the group of vagrants and slapped one of them twice across the face, instantly leaving red marks on the person's cheek

The door creaked open, and a courier entered carrying a tray.

Han Dong gestured for the six refugees to follow him

"Langya Wang? Shall we become rebels?"

"Deserter?" Han Dong replied in astonishment.

The card just taken out serves as identification from the military academy. During the Zhao-Song Dynasty, the four major military academies used such cards to verify identity. Graduates from these academies, even the least accomplished, could attain the position of squad leader upon reaching the front lines. Therefore, in the eyes of the station master, they remained figures not to be trifled with

Liu Yuan, this brother's loyalty to himself is beyond doubt; his sword is indeed a family heirloom of the Liu family, known as the White Dragon Blade. He even mentioned that the Liu family descends from the nobility of the Han Dynasty five hundred years ago. While Han Dong cannot verify this, it is true that Liu Yuan's father is a count, and it is quite possible that he could leverage connections to gather intelligence about the front lines.

"Yes, elder brother." Zhu Er, who had drawn his knife, immediately seized a vagrant to facilitate the act of cutting.