The Cold Door Hero

Summary

The chapter describes a disastrous event for the Western Xia army, where over 800 sheepskin rafts carrying supplies sank in the Yellow River, resulting in the loss of thousands of soldiers and critical provisions. This loss prompted a retreat by Li Qian Shun, the Western Xia commander, as their food supplies dwindled to just ten days. Meanwhile, Li Yan Qing, the Song commander, shifted his focus from occupying Xiping Prefecture to consolidating his forces against the Jin Dynasty, recognizing the need for stability within Western Xia. As negotiations began between Li Qian Shun and Li Yan Qing, Tang Kai, Li Yan Qing's chief clerk, emphasized the importance of waiting for imperial authorization before proceeding with any agreements. Concerns about troop morale and the resettlement of over 500,000 refugees and Song slaves were raised, highlighting the need for careful management and planning. Li Yan Qing recognized the inadequacies of local governance under Ma Shan and considered recommending his reassignment. The chapter concludes with Wu Jie, a military general, reporting minimal casualties from a recent skirmish, leading Li Yan Qing to contemplate appointing him as the governor of Jingzhao Prefecture.

Full content