The Cold Door Hero

Summary

Wanyan Loushi delayed his southern advance for two days until 20,000 Han troops arrived at Fushi County. He sent 8,000 cavalry to secure Fushi County while leading 40,000 troops towards Fuzhou. The Jin forces captured Luojiao County without resistance, acquiring grain that boosted their morale. Wanyan ordered Han general Zhang Feng to guard the grain while he continued south with 30,000 soldiers toward Fang Yuan, a strategic location threatening Guanzhong. However, a fierce snowstorm struck, causing an avalanche that blocked their path, trapping the Jin troops 200 miles south of Luojiao County. Wanyan expressed his frustration at his strategist Chen Guang Zhao, who suggested the Song army might have deliberately triggered the avalanche to lure them deeper into enemy territory. Wanyan, angered by the situation, realized they had no choice but to wait for the snow to clear. Meanwhile, in Luojiao County, the Han troops left behind began looting and committing atrocities against the local population. The harsh weather eventually subdued their activities, as they took refuge in their camp. In contrast, Yan Qing, a commander of elite soldiers left in the city, prepared for a counterattack against the Jin troops, gathering his men for a night raid to reclaim the city. Outside the county, Li Yan Qing and his 20,000 troops awaited the signal to attack, readying themselves for battle as the storm raged on.

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