Chapter 008 "Young Heroes"

Looking at the appearance of these two individuals, they might be capable of fighting. Zhang Zhen simply assigned them to his side to ensure the safety of his own life as a dignified "Grand Master".

At least I sent out reinforcements, and they were dispatched under very difficult circumstances in Wuchang. If the court inquires about this in the future, I can at least have an explanation, right

The team leader is also a young man, surnamed Xie, given name Yi, courtesy name Naitian. It is said that he has attended a private school for a few days, is literate, and possesses some education

I still feel uneasy, so I will bring Mo Hei over again. Having come this far, this person bears a significant responsibility. Even if in the future there is truly no escape from disaster, at least I can have someone to take the blame for me.

Although only the two characters "external commission" were removed, it has nonetheless taken a significant step onto the platform of a seventh-rank official. The future is boundless, indeed, the future is immensely boundless

Looking at Chang Dachun, he dared not say anything; if he were to say he wouldn't go, he would immediately attract some kind of trouble for himself

Shuangfu has shown great benevolence and righteousness towards the newly recruited Zhang Zhen, personally assigning him two hundred soldiers, each robust and strong. Although they may not be able to engage in battle with the Taiping Army, they should still have some confidence in their ability to escape when necessary

When Zhang Zhen was called up, he felt somewhat nervous inside

Another person from the same family as Zhang Zhen, named Zhang Rongyuan, courtesy name Tianshui, whose ancestors had passed the imperial examination twice. It is unclear how it came to be that in this generation, he is merely able to make a living.

Zhang Zhen cursed inwardly, wondering how much a bandit’s head was worth—barely one or two taels of silver

There is no distinction whatsoever between a rescue operation involving 200 people and one involving 2,000 people; in any case, Hanyang is absolutely indefensible in Chang Dachun's mind

Chang Dachun saw that he did not speak and took it as an agreement, and continued to speak:

What kind of army will I lead? What kind of battles will I fight? After enduring countless hardships to return to Wuchang, you now want me to take troops to Hanyang to die?

Preserving one's own life is the top priority

One can see the state of the world clearly; whatever one does, one must never act as a hero, and one must never show off one's abilities

Shuangfu never expected what kind of schemes Zhang Zhen was concocting. He thought the young man was genuinely afraid. After all, he had bestowed such a significant achievement upon himself, yet he had given Zhang Zhen such an outcome with the illustrations and books. It was somewhat too unfair to the other party.

As for whether Zhang Zhen can return alive, who would care if a mere battalion commander dies?

After calming himself, he asked a few questions, and Zhang Zhen answered them flawlessly according to the premeditated responses, which greatly satisfied Chang Dachun

However, the words of Chang Dachun soon excited him considerably: "For the time being, I appoint you as the general. In the future, you must serve the court diligently and not disappoint the high hopes that both the governor and I have for you"

By that time, as long as one keeps their mouth shut and insists that they are almost at Hanyang, and that Hanyang has already fallen, who would truly be able to investigate the matter thoroughly

Zhang Zhen's eyes lit up; the few words from Shuangfu clearly hinted at something directed towards him.

Moreover, when one truly wishes to investigate, that damned Chang Dachun and Liang Xingyuan had already committed suicide to "serve the court" due to the fall of Wuchang City

There is one more matter that you all believe is indispensable for you!" Chang Dachun's words immediately made Zhang Zhen feel a bit alert. Generally, when a high official says such a thing, nine out of ten times it is not a good sign. Sure enough, what Chang Dachun said next sent a chill from Zhang Zhen's head to his feet.

Zhang Zhen was on the verge of fainting

"If there is anyone to blame, it should be Liang Xingyuan. He is upset with me, yet he has directed his anger towards you. I, however, have no means to address this situation, as we are ultimately constrained by the heavy burden of serving the court and the Emperor."

Upon this reflection, my mood immediately brightened, and I repeatedly expressed my gratitude to Shuangfu for their guidance. Although I still felt a bit anxious and unsettled, it was ultimately much better than the earlier state of fear and trepidation.

Although your official rank is low, you are brave and skilled in battle. I, as the governor, will certainly not withhold rewards. Come here, grant ten taels of silver!

You need not worry excessively; this journey may not necessarily lead to a dead end. I will allocate more capable troops to you. As long as you proceed with caution and march slowly, it is not impossible to reach Hanyang in time

Chang Dachun rubbed his eyes. Although he had mentally prepared himself to some extent, he could not imagine that the person before him was the so-called "unmatched young hero" spoken of by Shuangfu and Liang Xingyuan.

I curse your ancestors, Lord Liang!

Chang Dachun stood up, regardless of whether Zhang Zhen agreed or not. After all, Zhang Zhen's life or death had nothing to do with him

Thank you, Governor! Zhang He exclaimed hurriedly.

Who was the Taiping army general that attacked Hanyang? It was the renowned Taiping general Lin Fengxiang leading the troops! I can handle the likes of Wu Qingxiang, but to confront Lin Fengxiang would be to push myself towards certain doom

As long as one proceeds with caution and marches slowly, it may not necessarily ensure timely arrival in Hanyang

Others may not know, but I am very clear about it.

I originally thought I had found a strong support, but I never dreamed it would be a "support" that pushes me towards a dead end

Zhang Zhen, however, was in a daze, lacking in spirit, pondering how his life had come to this point, and why he seemed to be so unfortunate wherever he went

Who are you to us? I am so furious that I could stab you right now. After all my efforts, is this the result? Zhang Zhen was almost compelled to reach for the dagger hidden on his person

How many? Two hundred people go to fight with the Taiping Army? Are they going to fight or to die?

Zhang Zhen cursed Liang Xingyuan's ancestors for eighteen generations in his heart

Shuangfu patted him on the shoulder, his tone filled with great sympathy

Governor Liang has recommended you as a young hero. The bandits have been moved by this news. Now, Hanyang is in danger, and I urgently commission you to lead a troop to hasten to Hanyang and confront the bandits. What are your thoughts on this?

Indeed, why must I go to Hanyang? Is it to go there to die or to become Lin Fengxiang's captive? I will take my time, advancing one step and retreating ten, and as soon as the news of Hanyang's fall arrives, I will immediately slip back to Wuchang

He appears to be around eighteen or nineteen years old. Although he is quite handsome, he always gives off a somewhat strange impression. Perhaps it is just my old eyes playing tricks on me

It seems that those two fortunate individuals, after boasting about themselves, also reported their own "achievements." Although it may not necessarily earn them any official positions, it is likely that gold and silver will not be lacking.

Alright, let it be so for now. In a moment, please have the Admiral personally assign two hundred men to Zhang Zhen, to immediately leave the city and assist Hanyang. We are all loyal servants of the court, and we cannot afford to delay this important matter for even a moment

Currently, the defensive forces in Wuchang are equally weak. I will temporarily assign you one hundred, no, two hundred soldiers to assist Wuchang. With your talent, you should be able to meet my expectations.

Damn Chang Dachun! Damn Liang Xingyuan! Damn Shuangfu! In a fit of anger, Zhang Zhen cursed Shuangfu along with them.