Volume Two: When I Take Hold of Heaven and Earth Chapter 31: The Trade Route, Part I

The gates of Shuangcheng had recently been reinforced and heightened, upgraded from mere iron sheets to a combination of five parts iron and five parts wood. The city tower had been expanded from two to three stories, and the moat outside the gates was dug wider. Not far away lay the grand training ground, filled with rows upon rows of soldiers; the cries and clashes of battle drills echoed nearly throughout the city. Besides this main training ground, there was another near the southern camp where newly recruited soldiers underwent training.

At the city gates, sturdy farmers often passed through. The guards comprised one squad of Han soldiers and another of Yilu troops. To prevent Goryeo spies from infiltrating, everyone entering or leaving had to undergo inspection. Anyone unable to present the newly issued Song Empire household registration was executed on the spot.

Shuangcheng, located in the rear, was under relatively lax control. In contrast, the frontline cities like Dingzhou and Dechuan were managed much more strictly. Apart from farming, no one was allowed to come and go freely. Even farming activities had to be conducted under the supervision and escort of the village chiefs, militia leaders, and government troops from the district.

The government troops were a local force composed mainly of wounded or weak soldiers from the army, supplemented by Yilu troops. They usually organized local draft activities and were responsible for night patrols and enforcing curfews. Their numbers were small, only about one or two hundred per city.

According to Hong Jixun’s plan, the government troops would gradually transition into units composed entirely of Yilu soldiers, allowing people to be governed by their own kind, which would avoid major conflicts. However, this could not be implemented immediately; it required the territory to be more firmly secured first.

The roads outside Shuangcheng, frequently traveled, were well-trodden and solid. Occasionally, a gust of wind would send dust swirling through the air.

In the afternoon, a dozen horsemen passed the city gate inspection and set off slowly. Leading them was Yao Haogu, who intended to find Deng She. However, Deng She was not at his residence; shortly after lunch, he had left the city to inspect the smelting plant.

A few days earlier, Yao Haogu had received military reports from Liaoyang, and the situation was grim.

The Mongol Yuan army had laid siege to Liaoyang from three directions, temporarily cutting off Guan Duo’s path south. If war broke out, the outcome was uncertain. Victory would be manageable; defeat would leave no option but to retreat south to Goryeo. At this moment, the frontline from Jiashan to Shuangcheng had risen in Guan Duo’s estimation from a mere passage route to a decisive battleground.

Yet Yao Haogu remained marginalized in Shuangcheng. After a month, he could not interfere with local officials, and his attempts to win over local elites were repeatedly thwarted. He needed to reverse this quickly, or when Liaoyang fell, all would be lost.

Earlier that day, he had visited Deng She’s residence but was turned away by the guards who claimed the general was in a meeting. This irritated him greatly.

“I suppose I need to increase my efforts,” he thought, counting on his fingers where else he could press for influence. Attempts to court the Jurchens had failed; the local gentry were unreceptive; generating public opinion that Deng She was loyal to Guan Duo’s forces was only half successful; courting Lady Wang yielded no clear results.

He glanced at Qian Shide, who was with him, and asked, “How is the situation in the army?”

“As usual,” Qian replied. “The officers with real power under him are mostly veterans personally promoted by him, well treated. In the Liaoyang army, they were ordinary soldiers; now, many have risen to positions of hundred-households, with land, fields, and money. When I went among the troops, the most common phrase was ‘No Little General Deng, no us.’ They are all loyal.”

“And Huang Zhenfu’s side?”

Qian sighed. “Huang Zhenfu? He’s worse off than me. From the beginning, Deng She sidelined him. He has no confidants, no direct subordinates, and even the 300 soldiers Deng She assigned to him are unmanageable. But he claims to have an inside line—won’t say what it is.”

“Probably afraid we’d betray him after,” Yao Haogu said sympathetically. “No wonder, his promotion came at someone else’s expense. A dignified town prefect, yet he’s barely got any guards left.” After a moment, he added, “You’re close with him; it’s easier to communicate. Tell him I’m not one to hold grudges after finishing my studies; if he reveals his inside line, I’ll report it immediately.”

“Yes.” Qian hesitated before asking, “What’s your plan if Little Deng refuses to relinquish power?”

Yao Haogu was troubled. No matter how capable he was, lacking leverage meant he couldn’t sway the White Wolf faction empty-handed. His only leverage was Guan Duo’s power from Liaoyang; with Liaoyang besieged, Deng She would soon learn, and that leverage would vanish.

“We’ll take it step by step. The key is to resolve this quickly, no dragging it out.”

The situation in Liaoyang grew increasingly dire by the day. Deng She’s half-month absence from the city was a prime opportunity but yielded nothing. Wu Heniang was excusable, but Hong Jixun’s sharp tongue made things worse for him.

Thinking of this, he cursed under his breath, “Damn that pretty-faced Hong Jixun, and that old turtle Wu Heniang! If they rile me, I’ll send them off red-handed in, white-handed out.” Realizing he’d spoken too harshly, he laughed and spurred his horse onward.

The smelting plant lay at the mountain’s foot, quite a distance from Shuangcheng, over half an hour’s ride. The mountains nearby were lush and verdant, the trees thriving in midsummer. The narrow mountain path twisted upward to the mine, where faint voices could be heard through the woods.

They were stopped by outer patrol soldiers. Yao Haogu was not in official dress but showed his governor’s office badge. The young squad leader, barely eighteen or nineteen, glanced over and said, “From the governor’s office? Our general has ordered that the smelting plant is a military-controlled area. No unauthorized persons may enter.”

Qian Shide was furious. “Unauthorized? Open your eyes and look clearly! This is Governor Yao, the great lord of the governor’s office.”

“Lord Yao?” The squad leader had heard the name but never met him. His loyalty was to Deng She, born and bred in the field with him, and he held no regard for Liaoyang’s officials. “I only know military orders, not Lord Yao. Even the Emperor himself would need the general’s token here. Have one? No? Then turn back.”

Qian Shide’s veins bulged with rage; he raised his whip to strike. The squad leader stepped back, drawing a half-sized waist knife. “Oh, want to fight?” Behind him, soldiers raised their weapons, and one grabbed a bronze gong to sound an alarm.

Yao Haogu quickly stopped Qian and dismounted, smiling, “Young sir, please don’t be angry. This is Qian Qianhu, a battle-hardened warrior with a fiery temper.”

The squad leader ignored him, eyes locked on Qian until he reluctantly lowered the whip; only then did he sheath his knife. Knowing Qian was one of Deng She’s officers, he spat on the ground: “Battle-hardened, huh? Ask any of my men, haven’t we all been through the fire? What’s there to boast about?”

“Yes, yes, you’re right,” Yao Haogu laughed heartily. “He’s got a bad temper—please don’t take offense. I came unannounced; please inform the general that Lord Yao seeks an audience with the Wanhu general—a matter of great urgency.”

The squad leader snorted, “The general is not at the smelting plant. He went up the mountain to inspect the mines. Wait here.”

He left two soldiers to guard them and disappeared.

Qian Shide, a direct subordinate of Guan Duo, was rarely disrespected. Being slighted by a mere squad leader enraged him. Through clenched teeth, he muttered, “Arrogant and overbearing!” Then he turned to Yao Haogu, “My lord, this is intolerable.”

Yao Haogu’s smile remained unchanged. “A military-controlled area must be strict; I was remiss. But,” lowering his voice when away from the guards, his expression darkened. He was not angered by the slight but saw clearly Deng She’s authority within the army—and his stance toward Liaoyang.

Before arriving, Yao Haogu had studied Deng She. The latter’s reputation was considerable; many knew their background. Once notorious bandits in the Lu and Yu regions, accustomed to killing and pillaging, they had reluctantly joined the army for survival. Yao had never expected true loyalty to Guan Duo.

Hence, he had specifically assigned Qian Shide to accompany him for intimidation. Unexpectedly, Deng She’s forces had grown rapidly, capturing several cities and amassing tens of thousands. The thousand cavalry brought along were now as useless as chicken bones.

He paced twice, murmuring, “Without a bold move, victory is unlikely. Without a bold move, victory is unlikely.” But where to find one?

Qian glared angrily at the soldiers watching them and said impatiently, “Little Deng doesn’t take us seriously. My lord, Liaoyang’s fate depends on Shuangcheng’s rear line. Delaying day by day won’t work!”

“What do you suggest?”

“Kill them!”

“Foolish!” Yao Haogu sat down on the dusty ground, shaking his head. “Your few thousand men aren’t enough to fill their teeth! That’s a last resort.”

“What then?”

“I haven’t settled on a reliable plan.” He trusted that a way would present itself in time, unlike Qian’s impatience. The grass was soft; he lay back, resting his head on his hands, eyes closed in thought.

Qian dared not disturb him and stood quietly nearby. The afternoon sun was harsh; soon both were drenched in sweat. Qian sat, then stood, uncertain how long had passed until the sun dipped westward. Suddenly, a guard called out, and a group descended the mountain path.

Yao opened his eyes. “Is General Deng coming?”

“Yes.” Qian glanced at him, expression calm, and asked, “Any ideas, my lord?”

“Hmph, dealing with a wet-behind-the-ears youth is no challenge. Two strategies suffice: advance or retreat!” Yao jumped up, true to his clever reputation, instantly confident. Spirit renewed, he mounted his horse. “Let’s confront him—first try a retreat strategy and see if it works.”

When Qian saw Deng She, the latter noticed them too and tried to take another path but was too late. Wearing a smile, he hurried over, calling out from afar, “Lord Yao, when did you arrive? If you need anything, wait at the governor’s office—I’m at your disposal. Why wait out here in the heat?”

Qian sneered, “At your beck and call? General Deng is eloquent. Lord Yao and I are just two outsiders—not wanting to trouble the general.”

“Why say that?” Deng was surprised, noticing the soldiers watching from afar and realizing what was going on. “Did my soldiers speak ill?”

Qian was about to reply when Yao stopped him, smiling, “Outside Xiliu Camp, even the emperor himself cannot enter. As a civilian official, I shouldn’t be here. It’s not the soldiers’ fault.”

By mentioning Xiliu Camp a second time, Yao tacitly admitted Deng’s suspicion. Deng immediately grew angry and summoned Zuo Che’er: “Lord Yao is my trusted ally, and General Qian is Guan’s favored officer. Who dares disrespect them? Investigate and punish severely!”

Normally, Yao would have stopped this to gain favor, but now he smiled silently. The ban on unauthorized entry was Deng’s order, and punishing obedient soldiers was Deng’s responsibility. Let’s see how he handles this.

Zuo Che’er agreed and left. A man in his forties, dressed in plain clothes with a Tang-style headscarf and smooth black beard, stepped out behind Deng—this was Luo Guoqi.

He caught Zuo Che’er and tried to mediate: “General, please calm down. The soldiers’ temper is well known to you; their words are often careless. No need for such anger.” He bowed to Yao and added, “Don’t laugh, Lord Yao, my men often curse me to my face.” Then to Deng: “Looking at it both ways, the soldiers were wrong to speak rudely. But ignorance is no crime—they likely don’t know Lord Yao’s identity.”

Qian was about to argue, but Yao stopped him with a smile. “General Luo is right. Small matters—no need for anger. Military discipline must be enforced.”

Yao then glanced at Luo Guoqi, who was low-key and had declined several invitations to drink from Qian. According to Huang Lvge, Luo’s military standing was not high, so they gave up trying to win him over. Yet he was smooth in speech.

Deng seized the moment, feigning anger: “Since Lord Yao says so, I will let it pass. I apologize solemnly. You must understand, many of my troops are farmers, unaccustomed to high-ranking visitors, and unaware of proper respect. I failed to discipline them and apologize on their behalf.”

Yao laughed, “Farmers are hardy and loyal. Since ancient times, the best soldiers come from the fields. General, no need for modesty. Your victories entering Goryeo prove their merit.”

Deng smiled. “Lord Yao came to see the smelting plant?”

“Not exactly. I have other matters.”

“I have urgent affairs to attend personally. Lord Yao should return to the city first; we can talk when I return.” Yao’s “other matters” were solely about gaining power—a delaying tactic.

“No matter. You handle your affairs; I’ll wait here.” Yao was not fooled and easily defused the situation.

After the apology, leaving Yao to wait in the desolate fields was excessive. Deng smiled: “I feel uneasy having kept you waiting so long. Twilight approaches; it’s late. Why rush?”

“I am not impatient; it’s truly urgent.”

“This is no place for talk. The city is far, and you scholars are not used to night travel like us. The roads are rough. How about General Luo accompanies you back? If you don’t want to go to the governor’s office, you may come to my residence. All the generals were gathered last night, no chance for proper conversation. Tonight, we can talk by candlelight.”

“Your residence? If you don’t return, what’s the point of me going?” Yao was not taken in. “Precisely because the city is far, I want to accompany you. It’s better to talk while walking under the moonlight.”

Luo Guoqi cleared his throat, trying to mediate: “The general has urgent matters; Lord Yao also has pressing affairs. Perhaps first speak with Deputy Wanhu He Guangxiu?”

He Guangxiu had recently been assigned to farming duties, worked tirelessly, and looked haggard. Seeing the opportunity, he straightened, awaiting Deng’s cue. Yao immediately interrupted: “My matter is urgent and important. Only General Deng may hear it now.”

Deng was at a loss but smiled: “If so, I should not delay your urgent matter. Please speak.” He yielded.

Looking around, he added, “There’s not even a table or chair...” He grimaced, clutching his stomach and inhaling deeply.

Yao spoke for him, “General, are you unwell? Did the mountain breeze chill you?”

Deng was about to nod when Yao added, “I drank two cups of cold tea at noon and also feel unwell. I was planning to relieve myself—shall we go together?”

They exchanged glances and laughed heartily. Since they couldn’t leave, they stayed. Deng crossed his legs and said, “Please sit, my lord. What urgent matter do you have? I’m all ears.”

“First, allow me to congratulate you.”

“For what?”

“Shuangcheng’s Wanhu governor’s office will soon be promoted to the Shuangcheng Wing Supreme Commander’s office. You will be promoted from Wanhu to Supreme Commander, and all officers with merit will be promoted from Qianhu to Wanhu. Guan Pingzhang will reward all hands handsomely. Promotion and wealth—a great joy.”

“I’ve counted, and there are only about ten supreme commanders in the Liaoyang army. Such a high rank is beyond my reach. Please don’t jest.”

Yao’s tone grew serious. “You captured ten cities in two months; few in Liaoyang’s army have such achievements. If you’re not qualified, who is? Your reputation in Goryeo has reached Liaodong. Guan Pingzhang always rewards merit and never overlooks talent. I guarantee the promotion documents will arrive within half a month.”

Deng was moved to tears. “Guan Pingzhang’s favor is something I could die for.”

Just as he said this, Yao smiled broadly: “Why feign reluctance, General?”

Surprised, Deng asked, “Why say that?” He realized he was falling into Yao’s trap.

“If you truly appreciate Guan Pingzhang, why not lead elite troops north to relieve Liaoyang?” Yao shook his head with a sigh. “To die for someone is easy to say, hard to do.”

“Liaoyang’s situation is dire? What do you mean?” Deng feigned ignorance, weighing his options.

“Don’t play dumb. Your trade caravan returned from Liaoyang days ago; surely you know the situation.”

Deng laughed heartily. “Are you talking about Gao Jianu and Naha Chu? One a fool, the other a coward. Guan Pingzhang commands hundreds of thousands; a minor ailment is nothing.”

This would not do; Yao needed to turn the tables, seize the initiative.

“For Guan Pingzhang, it is a minor ailment. But for Bianliang, it is a grave threat.”

“Your words are too profound,” Deng thought. Hong Jixun was right—Yao was a fool! Apparently, he wanted to elevate the relief of Liaoyang to the level of saving Bianliang itself.

“If Liaonan and Shenyang are unstable, how can Guan Pingzhang march west? Without advancing west to strike the heart, how can he divert Chaghan Temur’s forces besieging Bianliang? If he cannot, how can Bianliang be safe? If Bianliang is unsafe, our lord is doomed!”

Invoking the young Ming King and lofty principles risked backlash. No, he was confused by Yao’s sudden demand to lead troops to relieve Liaoyang. He asked, “So, what do you suggest?”

“Lead your twenty thousand troops from Goryeo. That number is enough to threaten Liaonan and Shenyang, securing Guan Pingzhang’s rear. Then he can boldly advance west, relieve Bianliang, and you will be the hero.”

Twenty thousand? I have only twenty thousand troops total, yet he wants me to mobilize them all. Deng understood: this was a ploy to draw him away. If I move, you cannot seize power; if I don’t, no one moves.

Qian Shide was speechless. Yao said, “A small squad leader under the general knows only military orders. As a Qianhu, even I obey Guan Pingzhang’s orders without question. Especially when it’s to save our lord—no sacrifice is too great.”

“Hmph,” Deng said. “Without thorough preparation and coordination, acting alone is reckless. Delay Guan Pingzhang’s matters, and it is serious; delay our lord’s, even worse. So, Qian, you seek orders from Guan Pingzhang; I will return and make preparations. Agreed?” He only mentioned preparations, not when to march or whether to obey Guan Pingzhang’s orders.

“Agreed!”

“Lord Yao, please go ahead.” Yao claimed a decisive victory in this exchange.

Deng and the generals mounted their horses, dusk falling, hooves thudding. Yao was slower and fell behind. Qian approached. “My lord?”

“That crafty brat!” Yao smirked. “Still drank my mother’s foot-washing water.”