Chapter 6, Gold and Silver Treasures
Xie Muhua swallowed hard, realizing that all of this was money. Although gold and silver in the Song Dynasty did not circulate as currency, their value remained unchanged; one tael of silver was equivalent to one guan of copper coins. Xie Muhua couldn't help but start calculating in his mind, glancing at this box of gold and silver, which was worth at least six or seven hundred guan.
He glanced at the Yang family members: "Although the Imperial Army of the Song Dynasty is elite, they have become weary from besieging strongholds. After traveling a thousand miles to Youyan, if we are to engage in war with the Liao state, the Emperor must surely desire a swift resolution, taking advantage of the Liao soldiers' unpreparedness to strike unexpectedly and achieve victory in one decisive battle"
Yang Jiyie had a resolute expression: "Sir, your foresight is as clear as if it were before my eyes. The Southern King of the Liao State, Yelü Xiezhen, is currently stationed in Youzhou, and nearby are the Northern King Yelü Xidi and the army of Xiao Taogu, numbering in the tens of thousands. The governor of Youzhou is Han Derang, who is exceptionally wise, and the defending general Yelü Xuegu has rich experience. If war breaks out, it is feared that Yelü Sha and the Liao general Yelü Xiuge will also head to Youzhou... The outcome is difficult to predict, and the Emperor's intentions are not to be taken lightly!" If war breaks out, it is feared that Yelü Sha and the Liao general Yelü Xiuge will also head to Youzhou... The outcome is difficult to predict, and the Emperor's intentions are not to be taken lightly!
Yang Yanzhao responded with a sound and hurriedly instructed the soldiers to prepare
I have a request. I come from the Eastern Roman Empire, and although the tribute was plundered by bandits, I managed to desperately retrieve a few treasures!" Xie Muhua looked at the Cartier watch and the telescope in his bag with concern: "I would like to ask General Yang to send a team to take me to Zhenzhou to meet the Emperor. If we were to go to war against the Liao Kingdom, it would be an auspicious sign for the overseas tribute of treasures!
Thinking of this, Xie Muhua couldn't help but smile slightly. He moved over a saddle and decided to take a quick nap while the troops had not yet set off.
Inside the box, there were neatly stacked piles of silver ingots, with eight delicate gold ingots placed on top. In an instant, the golden and silver glimmers reflected off each other, nearly dazzling Xie Muhua's eyes
The Khitan state was established for less than a century. In order to seek military assistance from the Liao state, Shi Jingtang of Later Jin proclaimed a puppet emperor and ceded the sixteen prefectures of Yan and Yun. The power of the Liao state grew increasingly strong. Ten years ago, the ruler of the Liao was assassinated, and the newly ascended Yelü Xian was frail and sickly, leading many to believe that the Liao state would decline. However, his wife, Empress Xiao Yanyan of the Liao, proved to be exceptionally talented, assisting Yelü Xian in managing the vast Liao state in an orderly manner. The current Liao state boasts a fierce army and skilled generals, making it indeed a formidable rival to the Song Dynasty, comparable to the Murong Yan state and Northern Wei.
This cavalry unit consists of only one hundred men, yet they are the elite warriors who have fought alongside Yang Jiyu in campaigns across the south and north
The wheels rumble, the horses whinny, and the travelers carry bows and arrows at their waists
Quality is more valuable than quantity
This month has sown the seeds of sorrow for China's history over the next several hundred years. Before Zhu Yuanzhang drove the Mongols back to the grasslands, the opportunity for the southern agrarian regime to defeat the northern nomadic regime lay in this battle
Xie Muhua pondered slightly: "The Emperor will certainly head to Dingzhou after departing from Zhenzhou. We must endure another night of hardship and take a shortcut, ensuring that we arrive in Dingzhou the day after tomorrow!"
Here is a small token of appreciation and a picture book. I hope you will accept it graciously, Seven Lang said softly
Yang Yi led Xie Muhua into a quiet courtyard
The members of the Yang family exchanged glances, and upon hearing Xie Muhua's words, it seemed that the Xie family had quite a significant background
The household registration has been checked! Fortunately, I was well prepared in advance
Yang Jiyie was drenched in sweat upon hearing this. Having led troops and fought battles his entire life, how could he not be aware of the dangers posed by a weary army making a long-distance march? It was just that...
I have just returned to the Central Plains and am not familiar with many matters. I have a few questions to ask General Yang!" Xie Muhua lowered his voice
Xie Muhua took out a water bag and took a sip. He sighed inwardly; today is already June 12. The army set out from Zhenzhou and arrived in Dingzhou on June 13, covering a distance of 180 miles in just one day and one night. Zhao Guangyi is truly too anxious
Xie Muhua said softly: "I have returned from overseas and have never fought in a war. There are a few words I am unsure whether they are right or wrong!"
"Mr. Xie, since you are determined to go to Zhenzhou to present your treasures, let Liu Lang take on the responsibility of escorting you." Yang Jiyi stood up, his long beard flowing, exuding an extraordinary heroism
Yang Jiyie contemplated that once this great battle commenced, the odds of victory were merely fifty-fifty. It was difficult to speak of winning.
Xie Muhua watched as the box of gold and silver ingots, gleaming brightly, was taken away by Qilang, feeling a deep pain in her heart. How could one refuse money that was delivered right to their doorstep, and even have to push it out themselves? She truly hated that person...
Yang Jiyie waved his hand, and Qilang Yang Yanbin personally presented a small black box, placing it on the stone table
After Zhao Guangyi eliminated the Northern Han, Youyan became his last major concern. Holding an army of 200,000 elite troops, Zhao Guangyi aimed both to defend the newly established Northern Song regime and to establish his personal authority. Thus, marching north to compete with the Liao people was Zhao Guangyi's only choice
In the early Northern Song Dynasty, the regime established by Zhao Kuangyin, which represented the civilization of Han Chinese farmers, had just quelled internal strife and unified the Central Plains. However, the Liao State, representing nomadic civilization in the north, had been established for a long time, with a populace that was all soldiers and an extremely powerful military strength, making it the strongest military empire of the time
Xie Muhua let out a bitter smile: "I am a scholar from overseas, unfamiliar with the affairs of the Central Plains. Yet, I cannot comprehend why the Emperor insists on mobilizing troops northward, risking the elite of the imperial army in a desperate gamble"
... ...
Yang Jiyie sighed; having fought against the Liao people for a lifetime, how could he not know?
Thank you, brother Xie, have something to eat
Oh..." Xie Muhua feigned profundity and let out an "oh," then changed the subject to ask: "When I was captured by the deserters, I heard them say that they are quite fearful of the Khitan Liao State! I have heard of the name Khitan even in the Eastern Roman Empire, and it must be a great power. However, I do not know how it compares in scale to the Murong Yan State and Northern Wei?"
Although this is my first return to the Central Plains, I have perused the ancestral texts and know that during the Gaoqi period, Taiyuan was the seat of power. Although my family, the Xie family, is far overseas, we still pay attention to the news from the Central Plains on hetushu.com. I have heard that Taiyuan was originally the land of dragon's rise for the former Tang dynasty, and it must have been painstakingly managed for hundreds of years. However, I wonder how it has fared after the turmoil of war. " Xie Muhua raised his teacup and drank it all in one go, then supported himself on the stone table to stand up. My family, the Xie family, although far overseas, still pays attention to the news from the Central Plains on hetushu.com. I have heard that Taiyuan was originally the land of dragon's rise for the former Tang dynasty, and it must have been painstakingly managed for hundreds of years. However, I wonder how it has fared after the turmoil of war. " Xie Muhua raised his teacup and drank it all in one go, then supported himself on the stone table to stand up
Lady She and Yang Jiyie exchanged a glance: "Sir, if you have any questions, feel free to ask!"
Xie Muhua observed the surrounding soldiers, who were quietly gathered around the campfire eating their meals. There was no noise, and no one moved about carelessly. Whenever they paused at any location, soldiers were immediately stationed on the periphery to stand guard. This elite force, unified in purpose and discipline, was indeed the distinguished army led by the renowned general Yang Wudi.
By tomorrow evening at the latest, we should be able to catch up with the Emperor's army! I fear that before we even reach Zhenzhou, the Emperor will have already received our carrier pigeon message!
The verses of Du Fu provide the best description of the tense and chaotic atmosphere in Hebei and Jingdong during the fourth year of the Taiping Xingguo era, in June, when elite imperial troops were in abundance.
Xie Muhua was surprised in her heart, yet her face remained impassive. She continued to walk slowly behind Yang Yi.
Mr. Xie, upon receiving the news, today, the army has already set out from Zhenzhou. The Emperor has issued a decree to the world, calling for the recovery of Youyan
Yang Wulang asked curiously, "Then why did you come back? Isn't it good to be an official in that Roman Empire?"
Xie Muhua secretly smiled in his heart, yet his face wore a serious expression: "My family has fallen abroad, branching out and drifting along. We settled in the Eastern Roman Empire and served in official capacities."
Having long been accustomed to living in a pigeon loft in later generations, Xie Muhua in the cylindrical building marveled at the extravagance, wondering if the entire family, including servants, could number a hundred people. On average, each person would occupy a considerable space of several dozen square meters.
Xie Muhua tapped his forehead, relieved that Zhao Guangyi's military talents were far inferior to those of his elder brother Zhao Kuangyin. His intelligence was adequate for domestic affairs, and while his defensive strategies against the Liao people were passable, he had rarely achieved victory in offensive campaigns. Otherwise, how could he possibly seize the Great Song from him?
Madam She was concerned about her youngest daughter, so she decided to have Yang Bajie accompany her. Bajie is a calm and composed girl, intelligent and quick-witted, unlike Jiumei, who has an impulsive personality. With her watching over, there is much more reassurance.
Yang Jiyie frowned; if Xie Muhua still found it insufficient, he truly could not provide any more. The vast Yang residence incurs daily expenses, and this was already the limit of what he could offer
Mr. Xie, I have heard that you have returned from abroad, possessing outstanding talent and remarkable insight. May I ask about your background?" Yang Jiyi inquired seemingly casually.
Lady She waved her hand and said, "Qilao, why haven't you moved this box down yet? Such trivial items are unworthy of the master's attention!"
Xie Muhua took a sip of tea: "If a swift resolution is not possible and we are caught in a protracted siege, then... the Liao army's generals will surely come to our aid. If the Liao forces are at the gates of Youzhou and the Song Dynasty has not yet captured Youzhou, then our weary troops facing the elite forces of Liao will surely be in peril..."
"No problem..." Yang Jiyie turned his head and instructed, "Qilang, you go select one hundred elite cavalry to escort Mr. Xie to Zhenzhou along with Liulang."
The young warriors are filled with fighting spirit, having just eliminated the Northern Han regime that was allied with the Liao Dynasty. The magnificent city of Taiyuan, which had eluded military greats like Chai Rong and Zhao Kuangyin, was captured by them in a single battle. At this moment, the morale of the Song army is at its peak, and recovering Youyan seems to them merely a piece of cake. Isn't Taiyuan the best example of this?
The nomadic tribes living in the grasslands and deserts are inherently aggressive, and plunder is one of their important sources of economy. Since ancient times, Youyan has been a military stronghold, serving as a significant agricultural and pastoral production base for the Han people, and it also acts as a natural dividing line between the nomadic civilization of the northern Mongolian plateau and the agricultural civilization of the Central Plains. If it falls into the hands of the Central Plains regime, it can serve as a strategic point, acting as a defensive barrier to prevent foreign invasions. Otherwise, the northern nomadic tribes can freely invade southward, using it as a forward base for robbery or extortion, leading to perpetual unrest in the Central Plains. If it falls into the hands of the Central Plains regime, it can serve as a strategic point, acting as a defensive barrier to prevent foreign invasions. Otherwise, the northern nomadic tribes can freely invade southward, using it as a forward base for robbery or extortion, leading to perpetual unrest in the Central Plains
In the center of the courtyard, there is a stone table surrounded by four stone stools. Yang Jiyu and She Taijun have changed into casual attire, sitting there enjoying tea, while their seven sons stand neatly behind them.
"How could I dare to have the General personally see me off?" Xie Muhua put on a look of embarrassment
Xie Muhua gritted her teeth and pushed the box back: "I cannot accept it"
Lady She inquired with emotion: "But I do not know where you have been overseas all these years?"
Since Shi Jingtang of the Later Jin exchanged the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun for the support of the Liao people, the Han people have lost their northern barrier. For decades, the northern gate of the Central Plains has been wide open to the Liao people, and the sabers of the Liao cavalry hang over the heads of the Han like the sword of Damocles. It is uncertain when the Khitan cavalry will march south and wash the Central Plains in blood
Moreover, the soldiers of the Song army, who have endured hardships and faced the elements throughout their journey, have yet to receive their rewards for capturing Taiyuan and pacifying the Northern Han. The originally high morale has been completely depleted little by little by Zhao Guangyi
Yang Jiyie smiled slightly: "Taiyuan has remained a stronghold in the Central Plains for decades. The Later Tang, Shijun, and Later Han all regarded Taiyuan as the site of their rise. Currently, the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun are in the hands of the Khitan, making Taiyuan a crucial stronghold in the northern region. However, the current sovereign believes that if Taiyuan is weak, it will rebel first, and only if it is strong will it submit later. There is an intention to relocate and abandon it."
Xie Muhua sighed and said with a sense of loss: "The Eastern Roman Empire only allows monogamy, and my family, in order to maintain our bloodline, has gone to great lengths to find Han women to marry, resulting in a gradually dwindling population. By the time it reached me, it had already been seven generations of single inheritance. In the past, my family held high status and power, and we could not return to the Central Plains. Now, with our family in decline, my father, before his death, commanded me to return to the Central Plains and continue the Xie family's lineage. Look at my name, Muhua, Muhua, which means to admire China. But unexpectedly... now, with our family in decline, my father, before his death, commanded me to return to the Central Plains and continue the Xie family's lineage. Look at my name, Muhua, Muhua, which means to admire China. But unexpectedly... I traveled along the Silk Road, enduring countless hardships, and just as I entered Shanxi, I encountered fleeing soldiers who looted, nearly costing me my life. The tribute treasures I brought back from afar were completely plundered, and when I escaped, I risked my life to seize just a few items!"
Xie Muhua looked at the puzzled crowd and explained: "That place is referred to as Da Qin by my China. The current emperor is called Basil II, and my Xie family has served as high officials in the Eastern Roman Empire for generations. We once thrived, but now our numbers have dwindled, leading to a gradual decline. However, our family tradition mandates that the younger generation must study Chinese classics. On ordinary days, officials' children like me are also required to learn the knowledge of the Eastern Roman Empire"
Yang Jiyie opened the box and pushed it in front of Xie Muhua. Upon seeing it, Xie Muhua almost completely sobered up from the remaining effects of the alcohol.
After a brief pause, Yang Jiyie smiled slightly: "Thanks to Mr. Xie for your assistance on this journey, my wife and child are safe and sound. Here is a small token of appreciation from the Yang family"
The Yang family's residence in Daizhou City is indeed quite spacious. Xie Muhua had already consumed some alcohol, and now, carrying a backpack and following Yang Yi, he had no idea how long they had been walking. He only remembered that rows of houses could be seen everywhere, each with spacious courtyards. When they passed by a martial arts training ground, it was even more striking, as it was as large as two basketball courts.
The general need not worry too much; I am merely speculating. The Emperor has not issued a decree to attack Youzhou... Moreover, with so many renowned generals in the Song Dynasty, how could they possibly fail to notice? If there truly were an intention to attack Youzhou, it would likely be because the Emperor desires a military achievement..." Xie Muhua said slowly. His words were deliberately vague, as there was no need to be too explicit.
These two hundred thousand elite imperial troops were the lifelong efforts of Emperor Taizu Zhao Kuangyin. The soldiers generally had a height requirement between 1.7 and 1.8 meters, with physiques described as "pipa legs and axle bodies, built for strength." After years of civil war training, the Song army at this time possessed the strongest combat experience and operational capability in the history of the Northern Song Dynasty.
Although Xie Muhua had consumed some alcohol, he remained clear-headed. The Yang family, from top to bottom, was present, and he was the only outsider. The steward, Yang Yi, who had just led him in, had also closed the courtyard door and left. Upon reflecting on this, Xie Muhua's intoxication immediately diminished by a third.
The two sons of the Yang family accepted their orders with solemnity
Oh, so it seems that this attack on Taiyuan will likely cost the Song Dynasty quite a bit, won't it?" Xie Muhua asked淡淡.
Yang Qilang responded and moved the box
Xie Muhua turned over a teacup, picked up the teapot for herself, and poured a cup of tea. She had drunk too much alcohol earlier, her mouth was dry and parched, and she was too lazy to speak without moistening her throat.
Yang Jiyie had a fondness for horseback riding and archery since childhood, showing little interest in studying. He could not recognize even a single large character and naturally did not care much for discussing etiquette. He stood up, cupped his fist towards Xie Muhua, and with his right hand open, said: "Please take a seat"
As Xie Muhua stepped into the courtyard, She Taijun hurriedly stood up and pointed at Xie Muhua, saying to Yang Jiyie: "This time, our reunion as husband and wife is thanks to Mr. Xie."
The Battle of Taiyuan is a source of pain and *illustration* in Yang Jiyu's heart. However, having previously promised Xie Muhua, he could only answer honestly: "The Emperor personally led the expedition, ordering Pan Mei and Cao Bin to command the army, which was divided into four routes to attack Taiyuan. After besieging Taiyuan, they did not rush to assault the city but first dispatched the Privy Councillor Cao Bin to defeat the Liao reinforcements led by Yelü Sha. General Guo Jin beheaded the Liao general Yelü Dilie at Shiling Pass. From then on, the Liao army dared not advance southward. After cutting off the reinforcements to Taiyuan, the Emperor personally led the troops from Zhenzhou and captured Longzhou. He then arrived at the foot of Taiyuan City to oversee the battle, engaging in fierce combat for several days, during which Han generals Fan Chao and Guo Wanchao surrendered one after another. The Emperor, with a benevolent heart, personally issued an edict urging Liu Jiyuan to surrender. Thus, Taiyuan was captured!"
Xie Muhua took the pancake and took a bite
Xie Muhua stood up, his expression grave: "I have always refrained from mentioning my family, fearing to bring shame upon my ancestors. Since General Yang has inquired, I cannot hide the truth. My ancestor, Xie Tuo, was the son of Xie Gu. During the turmoil of the Hou Jing rebellion, as the Liang dynasty was on the verge of collapse, my ancestor, heeding the words of the Jin scholar Guo Pu, observed that the Jiangdong region would be divided for three hundred years before reuniting with China. Seeing that the royal spirit of Jiangdong would ultimately last for three hundred years, the future of the Xie family was uncertain. In order to preserve a bloodline for the Xie family, my ancestor, following my father's orders, went abroad to seek refuge."
In the history of Chinese civilization, the Han people living in the Central Plains, as the most powerful agricultural nation in the world, have engaged in prolonged struggles with the nomadic tribes beyond the borders. Throughout the five thousand years of Chinese civilization, this conflict has scarcely ceased.
Yang Jiyie nodded and said: "The great battle has just passed, and there are many bandits; it has indeed startled Mr. Xie!"
Lady She and Yang Yanzhao exchanged knowing nods; they were indeed scions of noble families, well-versed in both domestic and foreign studies. No wonder that upon returning to the Song Dynasty, after hearing Jiumei discuss the situation, they could analyze the trends of the world with such clarity.
He is merely a lowly subordinate general, while Zhao Guangyi is in the midst of his campaign against Liao. His trusted generals, Cao Bin and Pan Mei, do not dare to speak up, so how could Yang Jiyue possibly have the audacity to do so
Sitting beside him, Xie Muhua wore a sorrowful expression, rubbing his thigh. He had ridden horses before, but that was merely at a slow trot, lasting at most ten minutes before dismounting. This time, he had been galloping continuously for three days, and the skin on his thighs had been chafed raw. Fortunately, the horse was relatively docile and did not act up during the journey; otherwise, it would have been even more unbearable for him
In ancient China, the daily travel distance of the army in a non-combat state ranged from 60 to 120 li. Zhao Guangyi's reckless forced march, risking the lives of 200,000 elite soldiers, is nothing short of a joke. It is lamentable that, despite being surrounded by experienced generals, none dared to oppose him
The sky was dim, and the soldiers, exhausted after three days and nights, lit a bonfire and ate their rations. Yang Yanzhao spread out a topographic map, while his brother Yang Yanbin held a torch beside him to provide light.
Jiu Mei handed over a flatbread. With her youthful temper, she was determined to follow Yang Yanzhao to Hebei at all costs. However, Yang Jiumei was indeed a valiant daughter of a military family, skilled in martial arts. Yang Jiyi, being an illiterate, was worn down by his daughter after much persuasion, and ultimately had to agree to let Liu Lang take her along on the journey.