Chapter 25 Chapter 25 City Breakdown

It is dawn, the leaves are frosty and cold, and the clothing is cold. When Di Qing thought that he might be a treasure, he was very excited, but he was not sure.Without thinking about it, he suddenly heard footsteps, turned his head and saw Fan Zhongyan looking at him. Di Qing remembered that Fan Zhongyan said he wanted to look for him, but he didn't expect Fan Zhongyan to look for him so early, he hesitated a little, but went up to meet him and said, "Master Fan, is there anything I can do for you?" He was by Fan Zhongyan's side, always ignoring Fan Zhongyan's identity, and greeted him like a friend .

Fan Zhongyan looked at Di Qing thoughtfully, nodded and said: "I want to go out of the village, can you go with me?" Seeing Di Qing nodding, Fan Zhongyan got on his horse and rode out to the west of Rouyuan Village. Wu Ying knew that Fan Zhongyan was out of the stronghold, and it was inconvenient to stop him, so he ordered his subordinates to lead troops to follow behind Fan Zhongyan. Dawn breaks in the east, Daiqing in the west.Di Qing and Fan Zhongyan walked side by side. Although they were full of worries, seeing Fan Zhongyan had traveled more than ten li to the northwest, he still couldn't help but remind him: "Master Fan, the front is not far to Houqiaozhai."

When Di Qing, Wu Ying, Gao Jilong and others broke through Houqiao Village, they burned the village.Although Houqiaozhai is deserted now, Dangxiang people and Song people are paying attention to this place, Fan Zhongyan came alone, it is very dangerous! Fan Zhongyan reined in his horse, stared at the northwest, and asked, "Are you afraid?" Di Qing was silent, Fan Zhongyan turned his head to look at Di Qing, and said with a smile: "Of course you are not afraid, even Yuan Hao's Tianhe Temple, you dare to go alone to assassinate, there is probably nothing in this world that you are afraid of. You are afraid of me something's up."

Di Qing knew that most of these things were said by Zhong Shiheng, so he pondered: "If Mr. Fan really wants to spy on the enemy, let me do it later, and there is no need to risk yourself." Fan Zhongyan looked at the distant mountains, and said for a long time: "If I don't see it myself, I will never understand your suffering. In fact, what is my danger? You are born and died, and that is the real danger." Di Qing sighed deeply, it was the first time he saw the civil servants of the Song Dynasty treat the generals like this, and he was silent. Fan Zhongyan said again: "Perhaps you don't know yet, Yuan Hao has sent out troops again, and the soldiers have sent out the army!" Ferocious, they have already broken through the villages of Lion Fort, Zhao Fu, and Ganhe in the Song Dynasty, and turned to attack Zhenrong Army City. Master Han Qi Han, personally sit in the town of Rong Army."

Di Qing suddenly thought of what Yuan Hao had said, "There is Han Qi in the Northwest. He has a strong personality. Although he has great ambitions, he is hard to hear. Scholars use soldiers, and there are always shortcomings. This time, he can be chosen as the breakthrough point." He couldn't help the palpitations and wanted to talk about this matter, but he couldn't speak after all.He is just a commander, what qualifications does he have to comment on Han Qi? "Yesterday you were right. Yuan Hao really wanted to take all the land in Longyou and Guanzhong, and plot the Central Plains. It's a pity that the court never paid enough attention to it." Fan Zhongyan looked disappointed, although he was unyielding but tired, he said in deep thought : "In your opinion, how to resist Yuan Hao's attack?"

Di Qing pondered for a while, and replied: "You can't defend completely, but you can use offense as defense appropriately!" Fan Zhongyan's eyes flashed with anticipation, and he asked: "Then how to do it?" Seeing that Fan Zhongyan's eyes were full of encouragement, Di Qing said in a deep voice: "Sending troops is expensive to attack by surprise and by surprise! Yuan Hao rushed to attack the Zhenrong army, just to fight so that we can't breathe and are exhausted. This is his usual method, making full use of the party's cavalry and horse speed He has the advantage to disperse our troops. Every time he sends out troops, we always go to support without exception, with half the effort. This time... If according to my idea, although the party members are fast, but they are not good at attacking the city, it is better to let him The Song army on Jingyuan Road defended the Zhenrong army, closed the city gates and did not fight, and used the long to attack the short. If we have extra troops, we can temporarily attack the White Leopard City... The following White Leopard City will undoubtedly inflict heavy damage on the party members and force the party People retreat their troops. If you can besiege the city and fight for reinforcements, it will be far more effective than rushing to rescue."

Fan Zhongyan looked surprised, and said after a long while: "But Baibao City is an important place for the party members, and it is strictly guarded." "Houqiaozhai is also heavily guarded, isn't it captured by us?" Di Qing suddenly smiled, "Houqiaozhai has been abandoned, the White Leopard City has come out suddenly, and it has been stable for a long time, and the Dangxiang Army has become careless. Master Fan It’s been a long time since we arrived at the border, but this time we suddenly arrived at Rouyuan Village, isn’t it for the White Leopard City?” Di Qing has been thinking about Fan Zhongyan's intention for coming to Rouyuan, and he knows that Fan Zhongyan will definitely take action.

Fan Zhongyan clapped his palms and laughed loudly: "Well, you Di Qing, you really are not bad." He smiled happily, and said in a low voice: "I still don't believe Zhong Shiheng said that you are brave and resourceful, but you can see us at a glance. The intention is really not simple. I have been in the Northwest for a long time, and I always feel that there is a lack of someone like you. It is very good that you are here." Di Qing heard something in Fan Zhongyan's words, and pondered: "What's your intention?" When he asked, he already understood that Fan Zhongyan must have planned with some people to attack the White Leopard City.

Fan Zhongyan didn't hide anything, nodded and said: "The attack on White Leopard City was the result of joint discussions between Mr. Han and I. We decided to change the disadvantages of sticking to the wall in the past and use offense as defense. We raided White Leopard City to reduce the pressure on Jingyuan Road. But if we can capture the White Leopard City, what should we do in the future?" He seemed to be consulting, and also seemed to see what Di Qing was capable of. Di Qing immediately said: "After going down to the White Leopard City, we must not do the same thing as after breaking the Houqiaozhai. We must kill the snakes. We must not always give Yuan Hao the opportunity to harass us. If he does not repeat When we send troops, we will fight there, fight Jintang, fight Yeshi, rush across Hengshan, and put the battlefield on the territory of the party members... forcing them to defend."

"Massive attack?" Fan Zhongyan frowned inadvertently. Di Qing shook his head and said: "Now is definitely not the time for a large-scale attack, but small-scale harassment is possible. There is no shortage of soldiers in the northwest, but there are few elite soldiers! With the current combat capability of our army, one hundred thousand is not as good as ten thousand. We can only correct its shortcomings and increase its strength." Only with vigor and strong equipment can one count as ten, and few can win many... Only elite soldiers and strong generals can reduce the cost of the imperial court and increase the ability to fight in the Northwest."

Fan Zhongyan was very appreciative, and said happily: "Di Qing, you are just a commander, but you have such an idea. It is really a blessing to the Northwest. If everyone is like you, why worry about not flattening the Northwest?" You have been in the army for many years, and it is difficult to show your talents." His eyes are deep, looking at the sky.There, the sky is full of autumn, and the cold smoke is condensed, like the curved eyebrows of a woman, and like the aura of a strong man. Di Qing was also a little lonely, and said in a flash: "But with Lord Fan here, I think we will have the opportunity to be a front-line general. Lord Fan, if we attack the White Leopard City, Di Qing please be the vanguard." Fan Zhongyan hesitated for a while before saying, "Di Qing, there are many opportunities, so there is no need to rush this time." When Di Qing heard this, he knew that the task of attacking the White Leopard City had already been assigned, and it was difficult for Fan Zhongyan to change the assignment, so he was slightly disappointed. Seeing that Di Qing was disappointed, Fan Zhongyan changed the subject and said, "Your statement coincides with that of Zhong Shiheng. By the way, he has started to train the Shishi in the past year..." "What is Shishi?" Di Qing asked puzzled. Fan Zhongyan's face suddenly brightened, and his eyes were full of expectation, "Ten warriors are elite soldiers..." Before he finished speaking, there was the sound of horseshoes in the distance. Di Qing looked back and saw a horse galloping towards him. The cavalry dismounted and knelt down on one knee, saying: "Master Fan, Deputy Huanqing has deployed Ren Fu to lead the troops and arrived. Please see Sir Fan." Fan Zhongyan glanced at Di Qing, nodded, and returned to Rouyuan Village with You Qi.Just after entering the camp, I saw a person walking towards me in big strides. The man is very tall, he is more than a head taller than Wu Ying beside him, he is also very strong, every step he takes, the ground seems to tremble.The most eye-catching thing is the iron mace on the man's back. It was a four-edged iron mace, like four long swords spelled out, with an extremely cold light. When the man saw Fan Zhongyan, he knelt down on one knee and said, "Deputy Huanqing has deployed Ren Fu, and under the order of Master Han, he brought his troops to Rouyuan Village and met Master Fan." Fan Zhongyan smiled and said: "It is said that Ren Fu is the son of a general. When I saw him today, he really deserved his reputation." When Di Qing heard it from the side, he already understood that Ren Fu was in charge of scheduling this operation, so it was not easy for Fan Zhongyan to send him as the vanguard. Ren Fu glanced at Di Qing, and said in a low voice, "I would like to ask Mr. Fan to enter the account to discuss some matters." Seeing that Di Qing was just a commander, he naturally refused to disclose military information. Fan Zhongyan nodded, and said to Di Qing with deep meaning: "You have a good rest during the day, and you will have something to do at night." Di Qing nodded and retreated, thinking to himself, "Master Fan said that there will be something tonight, so could it be that...tonight we will attack White Leopard City?" Just as he was pondering, Liao Feng walked over with Ge Zhenyuan, Ge Zhenyuan was still haggard, but The spirit is much better.When they saw Di Qing, they said, "Commander Di, when are we going back to Qingjian City?" Seeing that there was no longer any estrangement between the two of them, Di Qing was happy and said, "I'm afraid we'll have to wait another two days. You don't want to drink today, I'm afraid something will happen." Ge Zhenyuan lowered his voice and said: "Commander Di, I also feel that something is wrong. I don't know why today, many Qiang people have come to Rouyuan Village, and they seem to be patriarchs." Liao Feng said: "Yes, I see that the butchers of sheep and chickens in the village have prepared a lot of wine, as if they are going to treat guests, do you know if there is any for us?" Ge Zhenyuan laughed, "Come on, are you qualified?" Di Qing was thoughtful, thinking to himself that the attack on Baibao City was imminent, why did Fan Zhongyan entertain the Qiang people... There may be some problems in the middle.He said to the two brothers: "You don't need to worry too much, we will talk about it at night." Ge Zhenyuan was right, Di Qing observed carefully and found that in less than half a day, dozens of Qiang leaders had arrived in Rouyuan Village. When the sun was setting, the bonfire was burning high.Dozens of tables have been set up on the flat ground in front of the Chinese military tent.But Di Qing also noticed that at the same time, many generals of the Song Army also came to Rouyuan Village, but as soon as they entered Rouyuan Village, they entered the tent of the Chinese Army. When the bright moon rose, those Qiang leaders were all sitting at the banquet, excited even in their apprehension, because they had all received invitations, Mr. Fan invited them to drink tonight! The Qiang leaders who received the invitation were all flattered.Everyone knows that Fan Zhongyan is currently the deputy envoy of the Shaanxi Economic Strategy to appease, here Fan Zhongyan has the right to say, those Qiang people survive in the cracks, they have always followed the wind to play the rudder, this time they came here, of course, to show their favor to Fan Zhongyan.They knew Fan Zhongyan's name and believed that Fan Zhongyan would not do them any harm. Di Qing watched from a distance and saw that the guests were already full. Fan Zhongyan got out of the tent of the Chinese army, and when he arrived at the banquet, he smiled and toasted: "Fan invites everyone to come here today. We only drink and don't talk about other things." All the Qiang people hurriedly raised their cups and said in accommodating way: "Master Fan's words are very true, drink... drink." After Fan Zhongyan drank a glass of wine, he smiled and said: "Fan still has some things to deal with, so I will take my leave for a while." After finishing speaking, without waiting for the reaction of the Qiang people, he returned to the camp of the Chinese army. It was the first time Di Qing saw such a treat, and he was slightly taken aback. All the Qiang people also looked at each other, feeling a little dissatisfied.It can be seen that at some time around, there are many soldiers standing around, all of them holding long spears, and their armor is shining coldly. They can't help being afraid, dare not say more, and bow their heads to drink. Di Qing was thinking about it when he suddenly felt someone approaching. Turning around suddenly, he saw a big hand patting his shoulder.Di Qing wanted to avoid it, but seeing the man clearly, he said pleasantly, "Brother Gao, are you here?" The person who came was actually Di Qing's righteous brother Gao Jilong, who was under the administration of Qingzhou. Di Qing was more delighted than surprised to see his old friend. Gao Jilong was as bold as ever. Seeing his brother, he looked happy and asked, "This place is so lively, of course I want to join in the fun. Brother, what are you thinking?" Di Qing glanced at the banquet on the other side, and said in a low voice: "It seems that there is something wrong with this treat." Gao Jilong chuckled, "There is no good wine, and there is no good banquet. Let's go, Mr. Fan wants you to enter the account for discussion. There is a good show going on." Di Qing knew that he had a chance to make a move, and was slightly happy in his heart.Hearing what Gao Jilong said, he suddenly came to his senses, and said in a low voice: "Whenever there is a battle, these acquaintances are the first to know the news. Mr. Fan invited them here because he didn't want to leak the news of the attack on White Leopard City?" Gao Jilong stroked his beard, nodded and said: "I think you can guess it. This time, I invite them to come here. First, to connect with each other. Second, to see who is showing favor to Da Song. Third, let them come Throwing the mouse, warn their people not to send troops to support the White Leopard City. In the end, of course, you said that we have to pass through their territory when we send troops, so we can't let them leak the news first!" Di Qingxin said happily: "Master Fan's move is wonderful. You can restrain the hands and feet of these people with a meal. There is Master Fan in the northwest, and it will never be the same as before." During the conversation between the two, they had already entered the tent of the Chinese army, and the head of the tent of the Chinese army was sitting upright, and it was Fan Zhongyan.On Fan Zhongyan's left hand sits Ren Fu, the deputy governor of Huanqing, and on his right hand sits Yin Zhu, a judge of economic strategy. A dozen generals have gathered in the tent, all eager to try, and Wu Ying has also arrived here early.Seeing Di Qing coming, Fan Zhongyan said with relief: "Everyone is here, Mr. Ren, you can deploy the battle plan." Seeing Di Qing's account, Ren Fu was dissatisfied and contemptuous. Hearing Fan Zhongyan's words, he suddenly said, "Master Fan, Di Qing is just a commander. Even if he can participate in this battle, he should not listen to such important military secrets." The atmosphere in the tent was a bit stiff, Wu Ying looked a little dissatisfied, and waited to step forward to speak for Di Qing, Di Qing had already clasped his fists and said: "The lowly post resigns." He turned around and was about to leave, Fan Zhongyan suddenly said: "Who says Di Qing is still the commander?" Ren Fu was stunned and said, "Isn't it? Could it be that Di Qing Pingyuan was defeated in the first battle and was demoted?" Fan Zhongyan said with a smile: "Master Ren, you are wrong. Di Qing saved Wang Jiyuan from the capital prison in the first battle, indirectly saved Pingyuan, killed King Bodhi, and made great military exploits. Although Pingyuan fell later, it was by no means It’s because of Di Qing. After I arrived in Yanzhou, I found out everything and wrote a letter to report these things to the imperial court. The imperial court has decreed that Di Qing has been promoted to be the deputy envoy of the Yanmen, and he will be in charge of the inspection of Yanzhou West Road. Yes, so many people don’t know. Di Qing is qualified and should participate in the attack on White Leopard City this time!” Ren Fu was stunned, even a little shocked, and everyone had expressions of disbelief.Only Gao Jilong's eyes flashed joy, and he murmured: "Okay, it's really good!" Di Qing was a little dazed, unable to believe this fact for a while. Compared with Yanmen's deputy envoy, the commander's position is not a bit worse.He, Di Qing, has been in the position of commander for several years, but he did not expect to be promoted four or five ranks in one jump.The most important thing is that the command envoy is still a low-level military attache, and although Yanmen's deputy envoy is also a vacant post, it marks that Di Qing is already a senior official in the army.If he does more meritorious deeds and is promoted to be an envoy, he will be able to skip the probation period and go straight to the promotion based on his military merits! The senior ranks of military generals in the Song Dynasty were divided into four categories: envoy, Hengxing, Yaojun, and Zhengren. The official rank was the highest, and the official rank was the lowest.Within each category there is an equal rank distinction. Yaojun and Zhengren are regarded as beautiful and valuable positions in the official ranks. Ren Fu is currently serving as the deputy of Huanqing, and also serves as the trainer of the Xinzhou regiment.And Xinzhou Tuanlian was originally an official rank in Yaojun. In Shaanxi, apart from Xia Song, Fan Zhongyan, and Han Qi, Ren Fu can be regarded as the fourth person in charge of real power here. Ren Fu looked down on Di Qing at all, because even though they were both warriors, Ren Fu was born as a general, but Di Qing came from the army and had tattoos on his face!The civil servants of the Song Dynasty looked down on generals, and generals looked down on people in the ranks. What's more, Di Qing has never joined the ranks of envoys and has always been a lowly military officer. However, the deputy envoy of Yanmen is already among the envoys, which means that Di Qing can be separated from his lowly status in the army, and he is qualified to be compared with Ren Fu and others. After this appointment, although Di Qing's official position is still not high, he already has a lot of opportunities! Fan Zhongyan saw that the expressions of the people in the tent were very different, and he smiled and said, "Okay, I can't fight a war. Sir Ren, everyone has prepared everything for you, and it's up to you next." Ren Fu was a little embarrassed, and without looking at Di Qing, he said in a deep voice, "Of course you already know that Yuan Hao attacked the Zhenrong army, and we can't let him go wild. Master Han and Master Fan have orders to order the soldiers from the left and near villages in Rouyuan to gather tonight Power, capture the White Leopard City!" He ranked Han Qi above Fan Zhongyan, feeling vaguely dissatisfied, Fan Zhongyan just smiled lightly. "This battle can only be done, not lost." Ren Fu said solemnly: "The White Leopard City is guarded by Dang Xiangyong General Zhang Tuanlian. Come here, if our army moves quickly with light soldiers, they will definitely not dare to interfere with our plan. Therefore, if we attack the White Leopard City, only the Qiang tribes in the west and east of the city will send troops. You must cut off the reinforcements before you can attack the city with all your strength." Di Qing couldn't help but nodded, Ren Fuzhi's strategy was well-regulated, and he won steadily, which is understandable.It seems that this deputy is much more careful than Xia Shouyun in deploying. After Ren Fu explained the situation, he shouted: "The capital supervisor Liu Zheng listens to the order." A burly man stood up and said, "The end is here." "I order you to join the prison guard Zhang Li, together with Zhao Fubing, the owner of Xigu Village, and set off at night. You must rush to the west of Baibao City thirty miles before Choushi tomorrow morning. When Choushi's attack order is issued, do your best to contain the White Leopard You can do the troops sent by the party members on Chengxi Road?" Liu Zheng responded, "The last general is in command." "All inspectors and political hearing orders..." "Inspector Liu Shiqing listened to the order..." Ren Fu sent out one after another military orders to fight for reinforcements, disturb the enemy soldiers, and distribute them in an orderly manner.When the arrangement was roughly completed, he said again: "The responsibility of attacking the city is very heavy, and I will be in charge of dispatching it. But right now, there should be a tiger general who is responsible for leading the attacking city..." He hesitated to speak, and looked away from Di Qing Sweep over the body without stopping. Fan Zhongyan remained silent all the time, and there was a sigh in his eyes when he saw this. Di Qing was waiting for an order, which showed Ren Fu's attitude. He knew that he didn't want to send him there, but he didn't want to run into trouble. Wu Ying took a step forward and said: "Wu Ying is not talented, I would like to take this responsibility." Ren Fu laughed, and said, "I heard about the prestige of the bridge village after the Wudu Supervisor was broken. This time, it is really valuable to take the initiative to invite you. Okay, now you will be the main attack. Set off immediately, go north from the Rouyuan River Valley, across the mountains and over the mountains. Ridge, follow the small path, and then go east along the Baibao River. Choushi attacks!" It turns out that Wu Ying has been promoted again in the past half a year, and now he is also the head of the village. Wu Ying clasped his fists and said: "The last general will take the order." He glanced at Fan Zhongyan again, and said in a deep voice: "If the last general does not succeed, I would like to see you later." Fan Zhongyan smiled slightly: "Wu Ying, I don't want you to die this time, as long as you win!" Wu Ying nodded vigorously, turned around and left the account.Gao Jilong couldn't help but said: "Lord Ren, everyone else has missions, so why don't Di Qing and I not have them?" Ren Fu frowned and said, "Could it be that Gao Qian has not discovered that until now, I haven't sent troops to strangle the reinforcements from Jintang City?" Jintang City is just northeast of White Leopard City, White Leopard City was attacked, Jintang City will definitely send troops to rescue if it knows the news. Gao Jilong laughed loudly and said, "So... I am responsible for blocking the reinforcements from Jintang City?" Ren Fu nodded and said: "Yes, but not only you are responsible, Di Qing is also responsible. Huachi County is the place where Jintang City must go to Baibao City. Gao Jilong and Di Qing obey the order. I will send you two to lead the headquarters. People and horses, set off immediately and rush to Huachi County at night. Choushi will attack the Gubaa tribe there on time in the morning, and at the same time restrain Jintang City from sending troops. If a reinforcement from the party members comes over, it will be dealt with by military law." Ren Fu finally glanced at Di Qing, his gaze was full of provocation.As long as reinforcements from Jintang City arrive at White Leopard City, Di Qing and Gao Jilong will be at fault! Gao Jilong was slightly stunned, and he could still laugh loudly: "Okay!" Di Qing just cupped his hands and said, "The final general will obey the order." When Di Qing came out of the camp, seeing Gao Jilong was still smiling, he said apologetically, "Brother Gao, I didn't bring a single soldier with me this time..." Gao Jilong thought to himself, although Ren Fu is brave, he is jealous of the virtuous and capable, no matter what this time, he cannot let Brother Di feel wronged.Haha smiled and said: "You can just bring yourself. My subordinates are at your command." After finishing speaking, Zhong Shiheng came over and coughed: "Di Qing, you still have subordinates. Let's go... I'll take you to have a look." Di Qing only thought that Zhong Shiheng was talking about Ge Zhenyuan and Liao Feng, but when he left Rouyuan Village, he found out that Ge Bing had brought two hundred horsemen outside the village to gather for orders.Di Qing was a little surprised. He saw that all the cavalrymen were carrying longbows, feathered arrows on saddles, short knives on their waists, and spears in their hands. All of them were full of vigor and cold. No matter who saw these people, they could see that these people were full of fighting spirit, and they were definitely not the ordinary Song army. When Gao Jilong saw these soldiers and horses, he was very surprised and said: "Chong Shiheng, I really can't see that you have fooled these men quietly..." Zhong Shiheng stroked his bald head, coughed lightly, and said, "These are not my subordinates..." He stared at Di Qing, full of expectation, and said, "Di Qing, these are your subordinates! They are Shishi, do you still remember ours?" A plan? Yuan Hao has five armies and eight armies, and we have ten soldiers to fight against him! Although there are not many people, I think... there will be more soon." "Ten Scholars?" Di Qing looked at Ge Bing's men and horses, thoughtfully, remembering that Fan Zhongyan also mentioned this name, he couldn't help asking: "What are Ten Scholars?" "Ten soldiers are ten types of soldiers." Zhong Shiheng restrained his hippie smile, and said seriously: "I have spent so much money to select ten types of soldiers for you to use. And Ge Bing is one of the ten soldiers... Fighter!" Teams of soldiers and horses set off from Rouyuan Village, galloped out of Rouyuan River Valley, and went north over mountains and ridges.Although the horseshoes are fast, the sound is soft, and although there are many people, they are like ghosts. The Song Army's horses bound their hooves, their men held their heads, and rushed towards the White Leopard City like a flood. After Fan Zhongyan waited for the Song army to leave the camp, he went out of his tent to comfort the Qiang people and ensure that their tribe would be fine.Everyone in the Qiang saw that the Song army was going to take action, so they kept silent, and they didn't want to drink anymore, so they dispersed, but they still couldn't leave the Rouyuan village. Fan Zhongyan promised that when the sun rises tomorrow, they will be invited back, and the deal will remain the same. The Qiang people made friends with Yuan Hao because they were succumbed to Yuan Hao's force; the Qiang people made friends with Song Dynasty because they were lured by Song Dynasty's interests. Since Yuan Hao hadn't called yet, and Da Song was still doing business with them, although the Qiang people felt uneasy, they were still happy to continue to play the role of a fence. All the Qiang people have returned to their tents to rest, but Fan Zhongyan did not sleep, and so did Yin Zhu.The two of them did not enter the tent of the Chinese army, they just sat outside the tent, looking towards the northeast direction. That's where the White Leopard City is located. Yin Zhu's expression was excited but also nervous, while Fan Zhongyan was still calm.But if he was really calm, he would have gone back to rest, but how could he sleep? Yin Zhu was holding the wine glass, forgetting that the glass was empty, and murmured: "Isn't it time to be ugly?" Fan Zhongyan looked at the bright moon in the sky, and the bright moon was also looking at him.There is wine in his glass, and the moon in the wine, but in his heart... there is only concern for the soldiers who went to war. The moonlight is like silver, spread on the ground, like new frost in the morning, it is almost ugly. Fan Zhongyan's eyes were fixed suddenly, and the hand holding the cup was a little tight.Yin Zhu felt Zhan Qi's Jin Ge breath, and suddenly raised his head. I saw a bright light rushing from the northeast, piercing the cold Mo Ye in the distance.Although it is just like a meteor for a short time, it has brought the hope of dawn. "It's started." Yin Zhu stood up, his face was full of excitement, and he wished he could go to the battlefield in person. On the contrary, Fan Zhongyan lowered his head, drank the wine slowly, and murmured: "It's started." He has done everything that should be done, and the outcome, whether it will be a success or a failure, depends on others. Yin Zhu walked up and down, then sat down suddenly, stared at Fan Zhongyan and said, "Fan Gong, you have changed a lot." Fan Zhongyan smiled lightly, "Really?" Yin Zhu said: "You were not like this before...the you in the past would rather offend the Queen Mother for the sake of the emperor, the emperor for abolishing the empress, and Lu Yijian, the number one person in the court for the sake of justice. You would rather offend the people of the world than Insist on yourself. But you have changed now, you are less stubborn and more harmonious. You returned to Beijing this time and even visited Lu Yijian. Ren Fu is a bit arrogant. If you were in the past, you might have withdrawn his Commanding rights, but you didn't say anything today..." There was a hint of sadness in his eyes, was it because he realized that today's Fan Zhongyan was no longer the former Fan Gong? Fan Zhongyan asked back: "Is it not good now?" Yin Zhu sighed and wanted to drink, only to find that there was no wine in the glass, only the wind and dust.Fan Zhongyan picked up the jug and filled Yin Zhu's glass with wine.Yin Zhu looked at the glass of wine and sighed: "Fan Gong, do you still remember that time... Every time you were expelled from the capital, many people sent you off because of your integrity, the long pavilion broke the willow, and raised a glass to say you,' Fan Jun's trip is extremely honorable." Fan Zhongyan's originally peaceful face was filled with excitement.But in the end, he just picked up his glass and said with emotion: "Of course I remember. I still remember Yu Jing, Cai Xiang, you and Ouyang Xiu, a group of ministers, who were expelled from the capital with me in order to complain to me. I... ...Always remember! Because of you, I am not alone!" "At that time, we were willing!" Yin Zhu said in a word: "If we go back to the past, I will still complain for you." "What about now?" Fan Zhongyan asked suddenly. Yin Zhu's eyes were complicated, and he didn't answer directly. After a long time, he said: "Do you remember what we said when we pointed out to the world?" Seeing Fan Zhongyan's silence, Yin Zhu suddenly stood up and said excitedly: "I will wait for the Song Dynasty to suffer from illness. They all say that change is imperative. Only when the country is rich and the army is strong can peace and prosperity be achieved, and only when the great troubles in the Northwest are removed first can the Great Song be prosperous!" Fan Zhongyan nodded and said: "You are right. I have never forgotten these words." He spoke very firmly, and his eyes were full of energy.The expression at this moment is like the snow falling on a winter night many years ago. Ning Ming dies, but lives without silence! Seeing this, Yin Zhu lifted his spirits, and immediately said: "Now the Holy Majesty uses the same thinking as the sages, Han Gong and I. He also strongly advocates changing the course and revitalizing Song Wei. He decided to set the northwest first, and then change the serious illness. It was decided to send troops from five directions to attack Yuan Hao, but why did you write a letter saying that you disagreed?" Fan Zhongyan was silent for a long time, looking at the big tree beside him, he suddenly said: "Actually, it's winter..." The big tree was bare without a single leaf, it was very desolate. "The leaves on the tree don't fall off overnight, nor do they grow out overnight." Fan Zhongyan said again: "If we want to see the lush greenery, we will water it if we are impatient, or even pour hot water... But the tree is not only If it cannot flourish, it will probably freeze to death. The Northwest is like this tree!" Yin Zhu fell silent, Fan Zhongyan looked at Yin Zhu, and said sincerely: "I am also in a hurry, but we must wait, we must prepare, cultivate the soil and water, so that when the time comes, we can get the desired result. Yin Zhu , I know... Han Qi, you, many, many people are looking forward to the prosperity of the Song Dynasty, and can't wait to change. But this matter can't be rushed, I hope...you can understand me!" Yin Zhu sighed, shook his head and said: "I can't say no to you." He picked up the wine glass, put it down again, and asked: "Fan Gong, can this battle be successful?" What is Yuan Hao, just a warrior. Fan Yong is a useless person, which led to Sanchuankou's disastrous defeat. Could it be that Han Gong and Fan Gong can't deal with Yuan Hao together? As long as they can calm down in one fell swoop Northwest, Longyan Dayue, is the time for the reform and development of the Song Dynasty. At that time, I will wait for the ailments, correct the shortcomings, and create the prosperity of the Song Dynasty. Isn’t it what I have been looking forward to for many years? This will live up to my life! Fan Gong has been thinking too much recently. I just hope that White Leopard City can win the battle and inspire the army in the Northwest, and then persuade Fan Gong to support Han Qi." Seeing that Yin Zhu's face was cloudy, Fan Zhongyan said calmly: "Do your best and obey the destiny. You and I have already done what we should do. What's the use of being anxious?" Yin Zhu laughed and said, "Why don't you talk about the military situation, but talk about poetry? When you first arrived in the frontier, you once wrote a poem, but there was no follow-up... I have been waiting. Although Liu Qi's poem Yan, it’s not as good as your enthusiasm.” Fan Zhongyan smiled and said: "I have forgotten, but you still remember." Yin Zhu said: "Why don't I remember? I remember every single word of your words. For the sake of articles, I strive for the ancient ways, but those so-called literati in Bianjing can't do anything other than pornographic words, so that you People listen to get angry!" Standing up, holding a wine glass, he said: "The scenery is different in autumn, and the geese in Hengyang go without paying attention. There are sounds from all sides, and the city is closed in a thousand mountains, with long smoke and sunset! Good words, What a good word!" Seeing Fan Zhongyan smiling and saying nothing, Yin Zhu asked seriously, "Isn't this a good word? Listen, if it wasn't for someone who really went to the frontier, how could he have such a vision? Worrying about the country and the people." Fan Zhongyan laughed dumbly and said: "Although I am not thin-skinned, I will become red when you say that." So it was he who made the word. Yin Zhu said with a smile: "After a long time, you should have come up with the next tie, right?" Fan Zhongyan held the cup in his hand, looked at the moonlight like frost, and said suddenly: "Can you hear the Qiang flute?" Yin Zhu listened attentively, and heard something.In such a late night, the sound of the Qiang flute was undoubtedly full of resentment.Yin Zhu sighed: "At this time, most of the flute players...are homesick." Only people in the frontier understand the suffering of the frontier people.Only in the borderlands can there be this kind of bitter flute sound. Fan Zhongyan raised his eyebrows slightly, looked at the wine glass and said: "There is also the second half." He slowly chanted: "A glass of turbid wine is home for thousands of miles... Yan Ran has not been reinstated. There is nothing to do. Sleepy, the general's white hair calls for tears!" Fan Zhongyan chanted his words happily, but his expression was full of desolation and forlornness. Yin Zhu patted his wrists with the rhythm, and after Fan Zhongyan finished reading, he sighed softly: "Good words, good words. Among the words, I like Yanran Weile the most. In the Eastern Han Dynasty, Dou Xian offended the Queen Mother. , In order to make meritorious service and atonement, please order the Northern Expedition. As a result, the Xiongnu was defeated, and the stone was carved in Yanran Mountain to record the merits. Show your ambitions. Fan Zhongyan is still Fan Zhongyan!" Fan Zhongyan let out a sigh, "Yin Zhu, you still... understand the words." Yin Zhu got Fan Zhongyan's words, his eyes rolled and said: "I only understand words... don't you understand you? Do you think I really don't understand? Dou Xian is the power, you are the world. He can use whatever means, but you want to destroy it. Party members still worry about the suffering of soldiers. But how can things be done if you always look forward and backward like this?" Fan Zhongyan was silent for a long time before saying: "I don't want Fan's achievements to be stained with the blood of soldiers." "But if there is no fight, is there any other way?" Yin Zhu asked back. Fan Zhongyan sighed leisurely and said nothing more. The fire in the distance burns the sky, and the sky is about to burn.The sounds of wind, flute, and fighting are intertwined and scattered together. The night is sleepless, and the sky is about to break dawn. In the early morning, Fan Zhongyan's eyes were bloodshot, and Yin Zhu also stayed up all night.The two were anxiously waiting for the news from White Leopard City, when a horse galloped from Zhaibei.After seeing Fan Zhongyan, he immediately got off his horse and reported, "Master Fan, White Leopard City has been besieged! Our army is attacking harder." Yoon Soo asked anxiously, "Then how is the situation now?" Fei Qi said: "Still waiting for news." Before he finished speaking, another cavalry arrived and reported: "Up to now, the surrounding Qiang people, Yeshi, and Jintang City have no reinforcements to rescue Baibao City." Fan Zhongyan murmured: "Ren Fu told me this just to make me feel at ease. The siege of the city is obviously not going well." Although Fan Zhongyan heard the good news, he already saw hidden worries. Yin Zhu sighed: "Could it be that I can't bring down a White Leopard City when I hit with all my strength?" "White Leopard City has stood in the northwest for many years. The party members are arrogant, but they are still vigilant. This time we have a surprise soldier, but no one can guarantee that they are not on guard." Fan Zhongyan said slowly: "Ren Fu this person Arrogant, I just hope that he will not go his own way, if he really can't conquer the city, and the enemy reinforcements arrive, he can retreat temporarily and make another plan." Yin Zhu said: "How can it be done? A mere White Leopard City can't be conquered, how can we talk about breaking through Hengshan and pacifying the northwest?" Fan Zhongyan frowned slightly, before he was about to say something, another flying cavalry arrived, "Report to Master Fan, Wu Ying has entered the White Leopard City." Yin Zhu laughed out loud, and finally said with joy: "Fan Gong, you have always said that Wu is brave and never changed, but this time he has lived up to your high expectations." Fan Zhongyan finally breathed a sigh of relief, but he still looked in the direction of White Leopard City. The news came in an endless stream-"The south of the White Leopard City was destroyed!", "The west of the White Leopard City was destroyed!", "The Song army has burned the Taiwei Office of the White Leopard City!", "Wu Ying was captured alive!" Zhang Tuanlian, the supreme commander of the White Leopard City! The Dangxiang army lost its command and rushed to flee for their lives.”, “Your Excellency let his troops fight and slaughtered the White Leopard City.”, “The Song army beheaded seven leaders of the Dangxiang Army and captured five of the enemy’s officers. The people... seized the livestock and war horses beyond count!" Song Jun won a complete victory! When Fan Zhongyan heard this, he finally felt relieved, and ordered someone to inform Ren Fu that after burning the city, turn around as soon as possible, don't be greedy for merit, and beware of the arrival of reinforcements from the party army, then the loss outweighs the gain. Yin Zhu had already gone to arrange a celebration banquet, and Fan Zhongyan suddenly discovered that there was no Di Qing in the news. What happened to Di Qing?Fan Zhongyan was a little worried, he had only heard about Di Qing's deeds, after all he had never seen Di Qing fight with his own eyes.But when he thought of Di Qing's resolute face, Fan Zhongyan was no longer worried. Fan Zhongyan believed in his own judgment, thinking that Di Qing would live up to his high expectations. At dusk, Ren Fu finally brought his people back, and the awe-inspiring Rouyuan Village boiled over because of the victory.The White Leopard City has a rich collection of treasures, and the Song army captured innumerable trophies, and brought back as many as nearly ten thousand cattle, sheep, horses and camels. 任福背负四刃铁锏，趾高气扬的回转，见范仲淹就道：“下官未负范大人所托！” 范仲淹笑容满面道：“很好，很好。”听着任福不停禀告战绩，瞥见武英已周身是血，忍不住道：“武英受伤了？” 武英咧咧嘴道：“一些小伤，不妨事。” 任福重重拍着武英的肩头，赞道：“武英负伤不下七处，可还活捉了张团练，此次攻城，当记头功。” “那狄青现在如何了？”范仲淹问。 任福撇撇嘴，“他嘛……应该和高继隆还在坚守华池，不过我已撤兵，已传令让他们回来了。不闻太多的消息，想他们捡了个便宜，没有和党项人交手吧。” 范仲淹见任福身为此次战役的部署策划，可竟对手下狄青、高继隆如此漠不关心，心中不悦。但见众人兴高采烈，不想打断他们的兴致，终于道：“诸君此战辛苦，我已摆下庆功酒，还请入席。” 众人轰然叫好，就在帐外露天庆功。酒菜摆上，范仲淹陪众人喝了几杯，可不时的看看寨北。 酒过三巡之际，终于有飞骑来报，“高继隆、狄青已带兵回转。” 范仲淹欣喜，静等狄青上前。见狄青尘满面，血染征衣，关切问道：“狄青，可曾负伤？” 任福一旁道：“他这人……听说好负伤。平远之时，一伤就有半年之多。”说罢大笑，旁将均是跟随而笑。 狄青只回道：“此次未曾受伤。” 任福问道：“那收获如何？不知斩了多少敌兵？” 狄青皱了下眉，摇头道：“末将不知。” 任福一拍桌案，喝道：“狄青，你无论如何，已是个巡检。怎么连战果如何都不知？” 范仲淹不待多言，一人已哈哈笑道：“他是不知道战果如何，他顾不上数呀。”高继隆从狄青身后走出，对范仲淹施礼道：“范大人，华池一战，狄青以逸待劳，等骨咩族出援之际。力斩骨咩三熊，大破骨咩族兵！” 尹洙惊诧道：“都说骨咩三熊是骨咩族极勇的斗士……竟被狄青一起斩了？” 高继隆道：“管他白熊、黑熊还是灰熊，都挡不过狄青的一刀。” 任福心中微颤，暗想早听过骨咩三熊简直比熊还凶恶，他这才把活儿交给了狄青。可狄青恁地凶恶，竟然连斩三人？ 心中虽凛然，任福还故作淡静道：“杀熊一事，不过是匹夫之勇罢了。” 高继隆笑了起来，满是得意，“下面的那件事，绝非匹夫之勇了。” 范仲淹双眸中已有欣赏之意，微笑问，“后来如何？” 高继隆道：“若是别的将领，击败骨咩族后应该如何做呢？”他虽像在询问旁人，可只望着任福。他早就当狄青是他的兄弟，狄青可以沉默，可他不想。就算任福是他上司，他也不怕。 并非所有人都看重自己的官位！ 任福心思飞转，故作不屑道：“那还用问，当然是伏兵在侧，请君入瓮了。” 高继隆摸摸胡子，叹息道：“狄青就没有这么聪明了，他做了件很多人都想不到的事情。” 尹洙忍不住道：“狄青怎么做了？”他向狄青望去，狄青还是沉默平静，仿佛听着别人的故事。 高继隆缓缓道：“他知道一时间杀不尽骨咩族人，既然如此，若坐等对手前来，说不定党项军有防备，如此一战，胜负难料。因此他主动请缨，换了骨咩人的衣服，装成骨咩人的败军，反倒向金汤城行去。” 范仲淹眼已亮了，尹洙拍案叫好道：“出其不意，先发制人，好计。” 高继隆嘿嘿一笑，“金汤城果然出了近千兵士来援，那领军的军主见到狄青的人马，只以为是自己人，还待询问情况，就被狄青冲过去砍了。党项人大乱，被杀退数十里，丢盔卸甲，城门紧闭，已不敢开城。狄青就带着二百来陷阵之士在城门前守着，可叹满城党项军，不知虚实，大半天不敢出战。” 众人血已沸腾，想像狄青横刀立马，傲立在金汤城前，竟让敌手不敢出战的豪情，不能自已！ 尹洙满了两杯酒，端到狄青的面前，真诚道：“好一个狄青，竟让敌人不敢战。只凭此一役，我敬你一杯。想当年郭遵五龙川横杵立马，也是不过如此。” 狄青听到“郭遵”两字，心中一痛，接过酒杯，黯然道：“尹大人过奖了，我如何能和郭大哥相比呢？” 尹洙转问高继隆道：“那后来呢？你们就这样安然的回返了？” 高继隆笑道：“哪有那么简单。金汤城终于看破了狄青的虚实，竟倾兵和狄青一战，由守城的团练亲领人马，围剿狄青。” 尹洙失声道：“那如何是好？” 众人也是脸上色变，心道狄青带领不过两百骑兵，如何来抗？ 高继隆道：“他还能怎么办？当然是逃了。” 任福冷冷道：“我还以为他是神，原来也会逃的。那伤亡多少？”他不关心狄青的战绩，只关心狄青的损失，有如个嫉妒的妇人，看不得别的女人好。 范仲淹一旁见了，不由忧心，暗想这任福是泾原路的领军第一人，怎能这样意气行事？ 高继隆叹口气道：“他一路逃命，党项人就一路的追。然后狄青就逃到了凤池县南的云天崖……” 范仲淹突然问道：“那时候高钤辖在做什么？” 高继隆嘿嘿一笑，知道瞒不过范仲淹，说道：“那时候我正带着两千人马在云天崖喝风。” 尹洙恍然大悟道：“原来狄青故意败逃，引敌入伏！” 高继隆鼓掌，刺了任福一句，说道：“还是尹大人聪明呀，老夫见他们杀来，心道和狄青总算有点交情，就帮他一把。” 狄青第一次露出笑容，眼中暖意融融。那本是他和高继隆定下的计策！ “那千余人一杀来，老夫先用大石，后用滚木一砸，狄青又反杀了回去。若不是那团练跑得快，只怕也被狄青砍了脑袋。”高继隆捋髯大笑道：“这帮孙子，竟然小瞧我们，结果被我们斩了四百多人，又抓了他们百来人。而我们呢，伤了几十人，未折一兵。” 众人耸然，尹洙难以置信道：“你们杀骨咩三熊，屠骨咩族，斩一军主，击败金汤城援军，一日三战，竟然未折一兵？” 高继隆淡然道：“当然了。狄青只管杀，老夫只管数，因此他不知道战绩，但老夫我……还是一清二楚的。” 众人默然，就算任福一心找茬，一时间也是无言以对。 范仲淹终于叹口气，却没有再说什么，他已不必多说什么。武英一旁听到，霍然站起，激动道：“狄青实乃西北宋军第一英雄！” 众人就算有不服，心中也早被狄青之勇震撼，沉默无言。 只有狄青还是表情寞寞，突然感觉脸上微凉，抬头望去，原来天已落雪。望着天空飘的雪，有如冬的承诺，狄青耳边像是有一声音道：“狄青，好好活下去，让我知道，我不会……看错我的英雄！” 狄青望着飘雪，嘴角带笑，但掩不住眼中的相思。 雪无声无息的下，落在枝头，层层叠叠，有如思念；落在脸颊，融化成水，好似泪。 泪凝雪飘中，有朦朦胧胧，那白皑皑的尽处，有风旋，旋起一地的雪，有如舞者。雪在舞，接天连远，雪在落，绛河星落。 原来……相思如雪。