The Cold Door Hero

Summary

After capturing Taiyuan Prefecture, Li Yan Qing dispatched Guan Sheng and Hua Rong to guard key passes against the Jin army, while he led 30,000 troops to Taiyuan City. To recruit additional soldiers, he announced a call for 50,000 new recruits, emphasizing the need for proper pay and supplies due to the risks of military service. Li Yan Qing inspected a granary near the Fen River, crucial for the Jin army's logistics, where 20,000 Song troops were transferring supplies. He met Chen Dong, the logistics supervisor, who reported on the status of food, silver, and weapons. Li Yan Qing learned there were 500,000 taels of silver and 450,000 shi of grain available, sufficient for ten months of soldier salaries. However, he noted the absence of gunpowder. As Li Yan Qing returned to the city, he saw thousands lining up to enlist. The registration process involved physical tests to ensure recruits were fit for service. He encountered three scholars who sought military positions but were deemed unfit. Li Yan Qing offered them roles in the warehouse instead, requiring them to serve in the army for two years to qualify for a military slot at the Jingzhao Academy.

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