Chapter 61: Liu Chengyuan Pledges Allegiance to Yan Zhenqing
Word Number:396
Author:闲穿径竹
Translator:
Release Time:2025-06-27
With Linhu Chao’s forty thousand trong host encamped just beyond the city walls, a hush of tension hung over the garrison. Within the austere confines of the county office, Commander Zhang Xun summoned his officers to the council. He stood before them, calm but resolute, his voice steady as he addressed the room: “The enemy is seasoned and holds us in contempt. But if we strike now, swiftly and without warning, we may rout them in confusion. A single blow to their pride may shatter their resolve—and the city, then, may yet be ours. Who among you will take up the vanguard?” At this, the assembled officers exchanged uneasy glances. None spoke. To pit a mere two thousand men against such overwhelming numbers was to walk willingly into the mouth of death. Not one dared step forward. Just then, from beyond the gates of the county office, a voice rang out—bold and unhesitating: “If there’s a fight to be had, you’ll not leave me behind! I come to offer myself as vanguard, and seek audience with the commandant!” Curious, Zhang Xun ordered the man be admitted. He entered with the quiet confidence of youth—scarcely older than twenty, clad in coarse hemp garments and short jacket, his feet shod in nothing but woven straw sandals. A rustic figure, to be sure, and more than one officer cast a sceptical glance in his direction. A soldier chuckled derisively and said, “And who is this country lad? Does he not know that forty thousand rebels lie siege to Yongqiu? Tell us, do you not fear death?” Zhang Xun’s countenance darkened, and he struck the table with the edge of his palm. “Enough! Such insolence shall not be tolerated. This gentleman, who dares offer his life for the vanguard, is no commoner to be scorned. If he steps forth in earnest, it is no small matter.” Then, softening his tone, he turned to the young man and offered a respectful bow. “May I ask your name, good sir, and whether you bring with you any counsel for driving back the foe?” The youth returned the gesture with quiet dignity. “I am Xiang Shangxian, a disciple of the Guild of Mohists. By my master’s command, I come to place a plan before you, my lord.” Zhang Xun’s face lit with delight. “A