In fact, the extraordinary things were done behind closed doors. In front of others, especially in front of subordinates, while Fu Shen did not emphasize the dignity of a commander, Yan Xiaohan had to maintain proper boundaries to avoid criticism. But the more restrained they were, the more tender and controlled their small gestures of pouring tea and whispering became.
Fu Shen took a sip of tea and wondered, “What’s wrong with everyone today? They’re acting like lovesick maidens?”
” Yan Xiaohan smiled subtly: “Who knows?” Soon, a soldier reported that General Zhao Xicheng had crossed the Ziyang River and was seeking an audience outside the camp. The two exchanged a tacit glance, and Fu Shen ordered, “Let him in.” Taking advantage of the moment, he turned to Yan Xiaohan and smiled, “General Zhao is already restless. It seems this supervisor of yours carries some weight.” ”Just a few ounces, not worth mentioning,” Yan Xiaohan said generously. “If the Marquis wants it, I’ll give it away for free.” Fu Shen laughed, “What use would I have for it? Stew it for the New Year?” Yan Xiaohan obediently said, “Actually, it can be raised to relieve boredom, held while sleeping.” Fu Shen found him endlessly lovable, having not been this carefree since leaving the southwest last year. The smile in his eyes did not fade even when Zhao Xicheng entered. General Zhao was stunned, thinking, has the Jing Ning Marquis looked so spring-like because Chang’an is already almost secured? Zhao Xicheng was previously a Fenzhou military officer. He refused to surrender and led the Fenzhou remnants to escape to Jingchu. After the new dynasty was established, he led his troops to submit to Jinling. He was one of the few northern-born officers Yan Xiaohan could use.
Fu Shen had previously fought the Tartars alongside the Fenzhou military and had some impression of Zhao Xicheng, remembering him as straightforward and stubborn, always suppressed by the Fenzhou commander. Unexpectedly, after the commander’s death, he had stepped up to hold the Fenzhou military banner, enduring countless hardships to finally return to the Central Plains.
General Zhao, past his prime but respectful to Fu Shen, was tentatively asking, “May I ask, Marquis, how confident are you about this battle for Chang’an?”
