The Cold Door Hero

Summary

Li Yan Qing capitalized on the time difference with Western Xia to plunder Xi Ping Prefecture, aiming to gather wealth and free Song slaves within two days before the enemy could respond. After the Song army captured Ling Zhou City, Wang Gui led a cavalry force to seize the White Copper Mountain mine, catching the defenders off guard. The mine had been a source of wealth for Western Xia, exploiting 100,000 Song slaves for years. Upon arrival, Li Yan Qing found the camp of slaves in dire conditions but filled with hope for freedom. An elder named Yang shared his tragic story of captivity for nearly 40 years, prompting Li Yan Qing to vow to help the slaves return home. As the Song army prepared to leave, they secured the warehouses filled with copper, silver, and supplies. Li Yan Qing was astonished to discover an immense stockpile of 600,000 pounds of silver and 10 million pounds of copper, accumulated over three years. The warehouses were strategically located by the Ling Zhou River, allowing for water transport. With sheepskin rafts available for transport, Li Yan Qing organized the movement of the slaves and supplies. They recruited 20,000 soldiers from the slaves and distributed food to support their journey. That night, the elderly, women, and children were sent south on rafts, while the following day, the copper and silver were loaded for transport, with Li Yan Qing and his cavalry returning to Lingzhou City.

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