Done! Your Majesty is going to prostitute me for free!

At dawn, a faint blue hue appeared on the horizon. Before Lin Xiaofeng even stood up from his couch, he had heard that the bandits were planning to attack the city. He sat up suddenly, a fierce look flashed in his eyes, and then ordered Guo Tianyang beside him, "Quickly tell all the civil and military officials to follow me in the expedition!" After that, he quickly put on his battle robe, which shone with a cold luster in the morning light, as if foreshadowing the upcoming battle.

Queen Zhou also learned the news. She stood in front of the window of the harem, looking at the rising sun outside the window, but her heart was filled with gloom. Although the harem had a rule not to interfere in political affairs, this rule naturally did not need to be adhered to when the bandits besieged the city. She hurried to the Qianqing Palace with a food box in her hand, looking at Lin Xiaofeng with tears in her eyes, but she could not say a word. She did not want Lin Xiaofeng to lead the expedition in person, because the dangers were lurking on the city wall, and the slightest mistake could result in injury or even death. The emperor was worth a million gold, how could he be injured in the slightest? However, she also knew that the emperor would definitely go to the tower to help in the battle, because that was his responsibility and his mission.

The bandits came in waves, flooding the fields like a tide, and approached the capital. Most of the Ming army were old, weak, sick and disabled, and there were many newly recruited soldiers, so the morale was low. If the emperor appeared on the tower, the defenders and the soldiers and civilians would bravely take the lead and defend the city with their lives. Queen Zhou handed the food box in her hand to Guo Tianyang. The food box contained the breakfast she prepared for Lin Xiaofeng by herself, which was simple but full of affection.

Lin Xiaofeng looked at Queen Zhou with tears in her eyes, and felt pity for her. As a queen, she should have enjoyed all the splendor and wealth, but since she entered the palace, she not only did not enjoy the splendor, but was frugal in everything. Such a beautiful woman was born at the wrong time. All he could do was to trust her and love her. He gently hugged Queen Zhou's waist, kissed her forehead lightly, and said gently: "Don't worry, I am the body of the Son of Heaven, they can't hurt me! But you..." There was some concern and reluctance in his words, "The second edition of "Lin Xiaofeng's Seventeen Years" must be written as soon as possible. I want to publish it after this battle, so that the people of the capital can see the might of the Ming army."

Queen Zhou looked shy at first, but then she returned to normal and said seriously: "Your Majesty, rest assured. I will finish writing it today." Her eyes revealed firmness and determination, as if she was also preparing for the upcoming battle.

"Good, very good!" Lin Xiaofeng patted Queen Zhou on the shoulder and rushed out of the imperial city to Fucheng Gate. His figure stretched out in the morning light, like a firm light, illuminating the road ahead. The main force of the Shun army was gathering outside Fucheng Gate, and this place would become the main battlefield. He knew the difficulty of this battle, but he also understood the significance of this battle. He wanted to protect this land for his country, his people, and his queen.

On the way, they met many soldiers, some regular soldiers and some civilians recruited temporarily. They were the soldiers who had been replaced to defend the city, and most of them were having breakfast in front of the porridge shop. When they saw the emperor and the civil and military officials, they shouted excitedly: "It's the emperor! The emperor is going to lead the army in person!" There was awe and worship in their voices, as if they saw the dawn of hope.

"Not only the emperor, but also civil and military officials are here!" someone shouted, his voice revealing excitement and excitement.

"Long live the emperor! The Ming army is mighty! The Ming army will win!" The shouts were like a small flame, instantly igniting the big gunpowder depot of the capital. The sound was like a tide, rushing westward along Fuchengmen Street from the vicinity of the imperial city to the city gate tower. The soldiers guarding the city looked at the emperor's carriage from afar, waving their weapons and cheering! Their morale was ignited, as if they saw the dawn of victory.

Li Zicheng had a bad reputation, and the people were afraid of him. Now the emperor not only gave money to reward the soldiers defending the city, but also went to the battle himself. Everyone wanted to take up arms and defend the city wall to the death to repay the emperor's kindness. They knew the importance of this battle, and they also knew how difficult it would be. But they were willing to fight to the end for their country, their emperor, and their homeland.

……

Outside the city, Luo Wenbin's army had already assembled. In the front were 10,000 civilians, who were captured and forced by Li Zicheng. Their weapons and armor were simple, even worse than those of the newly recruited soldiers in the city. They were in groups of four or five, carrying long wooden poles and various simple protective gear, with helplessness and despair in their eyes. They knew that they were just cannon fodder in this battle, just to consume the firepower of the Ming army. But they still came, because their families and their homes were in Li Zicheng's hands.

The second echelon was 20,000 infantrymen, wearing armor and holding shields, swords, crossbows, firearms and other protective gear and weapons. Their eyes revealed determination and resoluteness, as if they were ready to die on the battlefield. They knew the importance of this battle, and also knew how difficult it was. But they were willing to fight to the end for their country and their beliefs.

The third echelon was the artillery soldiers. They had no artillery with them, only horse-drawn and ox-drawn carts carrying gunpowder and shells. Last night they dug holes in the ground and hid the artillery. They only needed to wait for Li Zicheng's order to rush over, remove their disguises, and attack the city with artillery. Their eyes revealed anticipation and anxiety, looking forward to the start of the battle, but also anxious about the outcome of the battle.

The fourth echelon was Li Zicheng's elite cavalry. They were not responsible for attacking the city, but only for dealing with the Ming army that rushed out of the city. Their eyes revealed coldness and cruelty, as if they had already regarded the Ming army as lambs to be slaughtered. They knew the importance of this battle and their mission. They were willing to fight to the end for their leader and their beliefs.

Li Zicheng reined in his horse on the mound, looking calm. He held the scabbard in his left hand and the hilt in his right. With a clang, the saber came out of the scabbard! He raised the saber high in the air and shouted, "Raise the troops and attack the city!" His voice resounded through the sky like thunder, as if it had already foreshadowed the arrival of victory.

Luo Wenbin also drew his sword and shouted, "Raise the troops and attack the city!" His voice was firm and resolute, as if he was ready to die on the battlefield.

The civilians rushed out howling, holding old shields, pot lids, and even shields made of wooden boards in their left hands. Their eyes revealed despair and helplessness, as if they had seen their own end. But they still rushed out, because their families and their homes were waiting for their return.

The 20,000 infantrymen quickly dispersed, hiding behind the civilians, and also rushed out with a roar. Their eyes revealed determination and resoluteness, as if they were ready to die on the battlefield. They knew the importance of this battle, and also knew how difficult it was. But they were willing to fight to the end for their country and their beliefs.

The artillerymen were faster, and they were divided into two teams. The front team quickly ran to the place where the artillery was buried, using the farm tools in their hands to dig the soil to make a shelter for the artillery, while removing the camouflage covering the artillery, waiting for the arrival of gunpowder and shells. Their eyes revealed expectation and anxiety, looking forward to the start of the battle, and also anxious about the outcome of the battle. The rear team whipped the cattle and horses with whips to transport the gunpowder and shells. Their eyes revealed determination and resoluteness, as if they were ready to die on the battlefield.

……

At Fuchengmen!

Lin Xiaofeng stood on the tower, looking at the Shun army all over the mountains, with no fear in his eyes. He stretched out his hand and drew out the Emperor's Sword, pointing the tip of the sword directly at the bandits under the city, and shouted: "Soldiers, the Ming Dynasty has been established for 300 years. The Emperor guards the country, and the King dies for the country!" His voice resounded through the sky like thunder, as if it had already inspired the morale of the defenders.

"I will fulfill this oath today!" His words were full of determination and resoluteness, as if he was ready to die on the battlefield. His figure stretched out in the morning light, like a firm light, illuminating the road ahead.

Lin Xiaofeng spoke inspiring words as soon as he opened his mouth. A eunuch with a loud voice stood high on the city wall and repeated his words with all his strength. There was a eunuch every once in a while, and they repeated every sentence Lin Xiaofeng said. Their voices surged towards the defenders like a tide, inspiring their morale.

"Bandits are besieging the city. Are you afraid?" Lin Xiaofeng asked loudly.

"Don't be afraid!" The shouts from Fucheng Gate were like thunder, and the defenders waved their weapons and cheered! Their morale was ignited, as if they saw the dawn of victory.

"Now that the bandits are besieging the city, are you afraid?" Ning Xikong, the guard of the West Gate, read the imperial edict written by Lin Xiaofeng himself, his voice resounding through the sky like thunder.

"Don't be afraid!" The defenders of the West Gate shouted in unison! Their voices were firm and resolute, as if they were ready to die on the battlefield.

"Don't be afraid!" On Guang'an Gate, General He Zhen of the Beijing Camp and the defenders were excited! Their eyes revealed determination and resoluteness, as if they had seen the hope of victory.

Lin Xiaofeng took a deep breath, accumulated the anger in his heart, and shouted: "Thinking back to the days of Taizu, he lived a life of glory with swords and spears! Today, under the protection of Taizu, you and I will fight to the death!" His voice resounded through the sky like thunder, as if it had inspired the morale of the defenders.

"The sun, the moon, the mountains and the rivers will last forever, and the Ming Dynasty will last forever! Kill!" His words were full of determination and resoluteness, as if he was ready to die on the battlefield. His figure stretched out in the morning light, like a firm light, illuminating the road ahead.

As Lin Xiaofeng said the last words, everyone fell into madness. They forgot the fear, the cold, and even the existence of their own flesh and blood. They only knew that they had to fight to the end for their country, their emperor, and their homeland.

boom!
The cannons on the city wall fired, and the rapidly advancing projectiles plunged into the crowd, crushing a string of enemies like a string of candied haws. The projectiles continued to move after landing, causing casualties to the infantry behind them again. The defenders cheered, as if they saw the hope of victory.

boom!
Hundreds of bullets rained down from the sky, and the bandits fell in droves, with unknown numbers of casualties. The morale of the defenders was greatly boosted, as if they had seen the dawn of victory.

Bang bang bang!
The bird guns hidden in the battlements opened fire one after another, and the bullets, carrying the emperor's wrath, shot into the enemy's body, killing the bandits one after another.

Li Zicheng's method of attacking the city not only demonstrated his wisdom as a military leader, but also revealed his deep understanding and flexible response to the battlefield environment. His tactics not only reflected the cruelty of ancient wars, but also incorporated a deep insight into human nature.

The first siege method, using ladders or battering rams to attack small cities, seems simple and direct, but in fact it contains an accurate judgment of the battlefield situation. These small cities have low walls, narrow moats, and insufficient artillery, which are ideal targets for ladders and battering rams to maximize their effectiveness. At this time, Li Zicheng would always supervise the battle in person. He was tall, with a resolute face, and his eyes revealed an unyielding fighting spirit. Under his command, the soldiers rushed to the city wall like a tide, the ladders were set up, the battering rams were pushed forward, and accompanied by the deafening sound of war drums, the siege began.

The second method, "the method of collapse", further reflects Li Zicheng's cunning and cruelty. He knew that a head-on attack on a strong city would only increase casualties, so he came up with these two insidious methods of attacking the city.

The first method was to send soldiers to pry bricks off the city wall. This method seemed clumsy, but it actually contained a secret. The ancient city walls were mostly built of adobe and covered with blue bricks. They seemed solid, but they were actually fragile. Every time the soldiers pried off a brick, it was like tearing a hole in the wall. Those who failed to complete the task faced the harsh punishment of beheading, which undoubtedly aroused their inner fear and desire to survive, making them perform their tasks more desperately. The scene under the city wall was like a cruel picture of hell. The soldiers either struggled to pry bricks or fled in panic, and the Shunjun infantry who supervised the army were like the cold god of death, holding long knives, ready to reap the lives of those who tried to escape.

The second form, digging tunnels to attack the city, is a reflection of Li Zicheng's exquisite use of battlefield terrain. He knew that for large cities with deep and wide moats, the tunnel tactics, although time-consuming and laborious, could effectively avoid the firepower on the city walls and deal a fatal blow to the enemy. However, this tactic also has its limitations. For example, a deep and wide moat like the one in Beijing is an insurmountable obstacle. The deeper the tunnel, the more serious the water seepage problem. Gunpowder will become ineffective when it encounters water, and all efforts will come to naught. The trade-offs and choices in this process all reflect Li Zicheng's careful consideration of the battle situation.

In this siege, Lieutenant General Li, the defender of Fuchengmen, was undoubtedly a brave warrior. He stood on the top of the city with a bow and arrow in his hand, shooting arrows at the bandits below the city like rain, while commanding with confidence and dispatching in an orderly manner. "Throw a grenade!" With his order, a huge grenade was thrown from the city wall, and the shock wave of the explosion mixed with iron and lead balls flew everywhere, bringing a devastating blow to the civilians attacking the city. However, even in such a fierce battle, Lieutenant General Li did not show any fear in his eyes, only a firm belief in victory.

Lin Xiaofeng, the bystander standing on the top of the city wall, saw all of this. His heart was filled with shock and fear. The cruelty of war was far beyond his imagination. The weapons in the hands of the soldiers were like harvesters, harvesting countless lives in an instant. Was he afraid? Of course he was afraid, but he knew that he could not show any fear, otherwise, the morale that he had finally inspired would quickly disappear. He clenched his fists tightly, his nails almost embedded in his flesh, but he still persisted, using his tenacity to convey invisible power to the soldiers defending the city.

The battle between the attackers and the defenders continued. As more and more bandits rushed to the city, the soldiers defending the city had to lean out and fight back. However, the soldiers using the Five Thunder God Machine and the fire guns exposed themselves and became targets for the enemy's long-range weapons. Suddenly, the casualties of the defenders on the city began to increase, and the situation became increasingly critical.

Luo Wenbin, who was far away, used his clairvoyance to observe the military situation and soon discovered something unusual on the tower. He narrowed his eyes and carefully identified the identities of those holding shields. When he was sure that there were important figures among them, he immediately ordered the artillery positions to move forward, aiming directly at the eunuchs holding shields on the tower. As the roar of the artillery sounded, the shells flew towards the tower like the messenger of death, and a new crisis quietly arrived.

Lin Xiaofeng also noticed the threat of artillery. He no longer insisted on watching the battle, and immediately walked down the city wall and headed towards the west gate. He wanted to see how Zhu Fenghui defended the city, hoping to find some inspiration and help from there. However, not long after he left, an explosion occurred on the city wall. An artillery soldier accidentally ignited the gunpowder box behind him. A huge explosion sounded, flames shot into the sky, and the defenders within a radius of five meters were instantly engulfed in flames. Lin Xiaofeng's heart tightened. He knew that this battle was much more difficult than he had imagined. But he also understood that only by persisting can there be hope of victory. He quickened his pace and ran towards the west gate, silently saying in his heart: "Zhu Fenghui, you must hold on!"

There was a loud bang, as shocking as thunder, as if the heaven and earth were trembling at this moment! The oversized grenade, like an angry beast, suddenly exploded the moment it touched the ground, releasing a force that could destroy the heavens and the earth. The whizzing sound was endless, and the lead bullets fell mercilessly on the Shun army like a torrential rain, and every hit was accompanied by the painful wails of the soldiers.

The soldiers of the Shun army, who were once iron-blooded warriors on the battlefield, were now like candles in the wind, swaying. Some were knocked to the ground by the shock wave, like rocks hit by huge waves; others were hit by lead bullets, and fell to the ground in pain, their bodies twisted into incredible shapes. The air was filled with a pungent smell, which was a mixture of arsenic, croton powder, and chili powder, turning into a cloud of thick smoke, which instantly enveloped the enemies within a radius of ten meters, like the cloak of the god of death, covering all living things.

These Shun troops were all elite troops. They wore heavy armor, some even wore double armor, and every detail on the armor revealed the craftsman's exquisite craftsmanship. Ordinary arrows could not penetrate this layer of steel protection at all, and could only fall to the ground helplessly. They held shields made of bamboo, wood, lacquered leather, and nails, and all the arrows from above were blocked one by one, like an indestructible wall.

However, in this era of firearms, only the lead bullets and rolling logs and stones fired by firearms can barely break through their shield wall, revealing some gaps. But in the face of biological and chemical weapons, this shield wall seems vulnerable, like paper.

It can block arrows, but it can't block the poisonous gas in the air! The poisonous gas mixed with chili powder, croton powder, and arsenic powder, like an invisible devil's claw, permeated the air. As soon as the soldiers of the Shun army smelled the pungent smell, they immediately coughed and couldn't control themselves at all. Their eyes were full of fear and despair, as if they saw the coming of the god of death. Especially the pungent smell of chili powder, which penetrated deep into the lungs and made it difficult to breathe, as if they would die in the next moment.

Then, various complications ensued. The soldiers were in tears, their noses were running, and their ears, throats, and lungs were burning. They struggled painfully, but could not escape this invisible poison net. Not only the Shun army, but also the defenders on the top of the city covered their noses and coughed, cursing: "Who invented this poison? It's too insidious!" Their voices were full of anger and helplessness, as if they were facing an irresistible disaster.

"Cough, cough, cough!" The coughing sound came one after another. After a while, some soldiers of the Shun army realized that the situation was not good. The sputum they coughed up was actually bloody! Their eyes were full of fear and despair, as if they saw the end of their lives. Because of the coughing, the shield wall of the Shun army infantry gradually collapsed, just like a sand castle collapsed under the impact of the waves.

At this moment, a cotton blanket soaked in gunpowder was thrown down from the city wall, like a messenger of the god of fire descending on the earth. The flames descended with the fall of the cotton blanket, like a fire dragon raging among the crowd. Wherever it went, the flames were raging, engulfing all living things. Most of the armor of the Shun army came from the Ming army, 80% of which was cotton armor and 20% was dark armor. This kind of armor is difficult to ignite with fire alone, but once it is contaminated with gunpowder, it becomes impossible to extinguish. They burned like dry firewood being ignited, making crackling sounds.

In addition, the weather was very cold and everyone was wearing cotton clothes, which further contributed to the spread of the fire. In a blink of an eye, the Shun army under the city wall was engulfed by the sea of ​​fire. There were screams in the sea of ​​fire, but soon it fell silent. The flames rose and the thick smoke was filled with a pungent smell and the burning breath intertwined, making people feel suffocated. The subsequent infantry stopped when they saw this scene. They first looked at the sea of ​​fire in fear and then looked back blankly. Their eyes were full of fear and confusion, as if they were facing an incomprehensible disaster.

The generals supervising the battle behind them were also helpless. Ordering the soldiers to charge at this time was tantamount to sending them to their deaths. But who would dare to retreat without the order of their superiors? They could only watch their soldiers struggling and wailing in the sea of ​​fire but could do nothing.

While they were hesitating, the defenders on the top of the city had already opened fire. Bullets and arrows came in overwhelming numbers, and in an instant, more than a hundred Shun soldiers fell to the ground. Their bodies were pierced by arrows, and their blood dyed the ground red. The air was filled with a strong smell of blood and gunpowder, like a scene from hell.

Lin Xiaofeng saw this hellish scene when he first climbed the city wall! He was stunned at first, but then his spirits lifted! He thought that he would be able to save the capital city by using this method! His eyes revealed firmness and determination, as if he had seen the dawn of victory.

So Lin Xiaofeng shouted loudly: "The Ming army is mighty! Those who surrender will be pardoned, officials will be reinstated, and food and wages are sufficient and no military pay is owed!" His voice resounded like thunder and spread throughout the battlefield. Guo Tianyang also raised his hands and shouted loudly: "Long live our emperor! The Ming army is mighty!..." Their voices were full of confidence and pride, as if they had seen the dawn of victory. The soldiers guarding the city turned around and saw Guo Tianyang first. They looked closely and found that the person next to Guo Tianyang was actually the current emperor! Everyone immediately cheered and danced on the city wall with weapons in hand! Their faces were filled with joy and excitement, as if they had seen the dawn of victory.

"Long live the emperor! The Ming army is mighty! Those who surrender will be pardoned, officials will be reinstated, and food and wages will be sufficient, and no military pay will be owed!" These words were like a warm current that dispelled the fear in their hearts. They felt that the bandits were just like that, they were also flesh and blood, and they were also afraid of cannons, arrows, bullets, grenades, and the burning of flames. Their eyes revealed determination and courage, as if they were ready to fight the enemy to the death.

At this time, the fire was still not extinguished and the bandits were far away, not knowing what to do. Ning Xikong, the guard of the West Gate, saw Lin Xiaofeng coming and immediately stepped forward and clasped his hands and said, "Your Majesty, I, Ning Xikong, pay my respects to you." His voice was full of respect and loyalty, as if he was facing a great leader.

"Thank you for your hard work, Wang Tongzhi. How are the casualties?" Lin Xiaofeng asked with concern. His eyes revealed care and worry as if he was facing a close comrade-in-arms.

"Your Majesty, we killed about a thousand enemies in this battle, and the casualties among the defenders were less than a hundred." Ning Xikong replied. His voice was full of pride and joy, as if he had won a glorious victory.

"Very good!" Lin Xiaofeng nodded in relief. The ratio of casualties was similar to that when Zhou Yuji resisted Li Zicheng at Ningwu Pass. But this was only a temporary victory because the bandits had many other ways to attack the city! His eyes revealed depth and worry, as if he had seen the challenges of the future.

"Where is Zhu Fenghui?" Lin Xiaofeng asked. His voice revealed an eagerness and expectation, as if he needed a wise and brave general to help him. Zhu Fenghui was on guard among the garrisons. When he heard the emperor calling his name, he immediately stepped out and knelt on one knee: "Your Majesty, I am here." His voice was full of determination and loyalty, as if he was ready to serve the emperor at any time.

"You need to think carefully about how to defeat the enemy. Although the earth-shattering mines are very useful, as far as I know, their number is limited. Once they are used up, it will be difficult to defend the city." Lin Xiaofeng warned. His eyes revealed worry and expectation, as if he needed a wise and brave general to give him advice.

"I will bear in mind your Majesty's will," Zhu Fenghui replied. His voice was full of determination and resolve, as if he was ready to go through fire and water for the emperor. After he finished speaking, the cannons sounded again, and the second round of siege began.

Li Zicheng was watching the battle from behind the mound with a clairvoyance in his hand. The rest of the civil and military officials stood by. They all looked solemn as if they were facing a life-and-death battle. Military strategist Cheng Minghe took a breath after observing for a moment. His eyes revealed fear and uneasiness as if he had already seen the future defeat.

"Why is the military advisor like this?" asked Zuo Fu Nangong Shangpu. His voice was full of doubt and puzzlement, as if he needed a wise man to answer his doubts.

"There are capable people in the Ming army!" Cheng Minghe exclaimed. His voice revealed helplessness and admiration, as if he had a new respect for the generals of the Ming army.

"Why do you think so?" Nangong Shangpu asked in confusion. His eyes were full of doubt and curiosity, as if he needed a wise man to guide him.

"Can you see clearly what is written on the white cloth on the city wall?" Cheng Minghe asked. His eyes revealed a deep and wise look as if he had seen through everything. Nangong Shangpu read out the words carefully, "Those who surrender will be pardoned and reinstated! There is enough food and wages and no military pay is owed!" His voice was full of shock and admiration as if he had already admired the generals of the Ming army.

"This is just a small psychological warfare, what's there to be afraid of!" Nangong Shangpu said disdainfully. His voice revealed contempt and disdain, as if he didn't take the Ming army's psychological warfare seriously at all.

"No!" Cheng Minghe shook his head. "If you were a surrendered general of the Ming army, why did you surrender to the Shun army?" His eyes revealed wisdom and depth, as if he had seen through everything. Nangong Shangpu thought for a moment and said tentatively: "Afraid of death, no money, and hunger?" His voice was full of doubts and uncertainty, as if he needed a wise man to guide him.

"That's the problem!" Cheng Minghe continued, "The words on the white cloth from the Ming court have solved these two problems!" Seeing that Nangong Shangpu was still puzzled, Cheng Minghe further explained, "Since ancient times, the casualties between the attacker and the defender have been very different, with ten attackers dying for every one defender dying. If you are a cowardly Ming army soldier, will you choose to attack or defend?" His voice revealed wisdom and depth, as if he had seen through everything.

Nangong Shangpu suddenly realized the wisdom of the Ming army's psychological warfare. He secretly admired the generals of the Ming army for coming up with such a brilliant strategy. He could not help but be full of expectations and awe for the future of the Ming army.

Without waiting for Nangong Shangpu to answer, Li Zicheng frowned and turned around and said, "You believe such an obvious lie? If the Ming court was willing to give money, we wouldn't be surrounded by the Shun army!" He had always believed that Lin Xiaofeng's treasury had endless money. His voice revealed contempt and disdain, as if he didn't take the financial resources of the Ming army seriously at all.

"Your Majesty, please look!" Cheng Minghe pointed to Fucheng Gate from afar. "Some of the people guarding the city are wearing armor, and some have books tied to their bodies. The former are soldiers of the Ming court, and the latter should be

Li Zicheng raised his eyebrows slightly, and the worry in his heart was like a heavy stone, weighing heavily on his heart. He knew very well that these surrendered Ming Dynasty troops were not loyal at all. There was anxiety and calculation in their eyes. Once they believed those promises written in black and white, the risk of them biting back would be great. His heart seemed to be tightly wrapped by an invisible rope, and every beat was accompanied by a faint pain.

"There must be a good way to deal with this!" He thought to himself, his eyes swept across everyone's faces, trying to find a clue. However, under the gazes of so many people, he could not speak directly, and could only continue to observe the situation on the battlefield, which was like a candle in the wind, swaying.

At this time, more than half of the second batch of soldiers attacking the city had been killed or wounded. The raging flames were like a raging beast, devouring everything mercilessly. The soldiers stopped one after another, not daring to charge again, but retreating to avoid the attacks of the defenders. Their faces were full of fear and despair, as if they had foreseen their own end.

Luo Wenbin's brows were furrowed, and the anxiety on his face was as clear as a thick brush. He looked at Li Zicheng and Jing Changhao beside him, wanting to say something but stopping himself. The tangle in his heart was like a tangled mess, which could not be cut or sorted out. His eyes flashed with pain and struggle, as if he was experiencing an inner storm.

Although he didn't understand what the explosives thrown by the Ming army were, their difficulty was enough to give him a headache. Those explosives not only caused heavy casualties among the soldiers nearby, but also made many of them lose their combat effectiveness. Some soldiers covered their mouths and noses, coughing one after another; some squatted, holding their heads with their hands, trying to relieve the pain; and some lay down, motionless, as if they had lost their breath of life.

What's worse is that those quilts soaked in gunpowder are so sharp that no matter whether they are elite infantry or brave kings and emperors, they have to avoid them. Once they are hit by them, it is like being cut by the scythe of the god of death, and the fire of life is extinguished instantly.

Luo Wenbin wanted to withdraw his troops temporarily and look for another opportunity to defeat the enemy. However, Li Zicheng and Jing Changhao did not give him this opportunity. They personally supervised the battle and drove their soldiers into the battlefield in batches. Their eyes were full of determination and coldness, as if they had regarded the lives of the soldiers as worthless.

Seeing the heavy casualties of the second batch of Shun troops attacking the city, Luo Wenbin finally couldn't help it. These were the brothers who fought side by side with him, how could he watch them die? His heart was filled with grief and helplessness, as if he was being tightly grasped by an invisible hand, unable to breathe.

When Jing Changhao was about to send the third group of people to attack the city, Luo Wenbin finally spoke: "Your Majesty, General Zongmin, I think we should withdraw our troops temporarily." Although his voice was not loud, it was full of firmness and determination.

"Why?" Jing Changhao's dissatisfaction was evident in his words. His eyes were flashing with questioning and anger, as if he wanted to devour Luo Wenbin.

"The Ming army's firearms were too strange. Every time a big ball was thrown down, the nearby soldiers would either bend over and cough or fall to the ground. Plus the quilts soaked in gunpowder, wherever they went, there would be a sea of ​​fire." Luo Wenbin explained, his voice full of helplessness and anxiety, as if he was experiencing an inescapable nightmare.

"I think we should find a way to deal with it. Otherwise, no matter how many people we have, we will be burned to death by the Ming army." He added, his eyes flashing with wisdom and determination, as if he had already seen the future victory.

Jing Changhao narrowed his eyes and looked at Luo Wenbin, "Are you scared?" His voice was full of sarcasm and doubt, as if to shatter Luo Wenbin's dignity.

Hearing the word "fear", Li Zicheng also turned to look at Luo Wenbin. Fear was not allowed in his army! His eyes flashed with coldness and majesty, as if he wanted to strangle all cowardice and weakness in the cradle.

Luo Wenbin smiled bitterly and said, "General Zongmin, when have I, Luo Wenbin, ever been afraid?" His voice was full of confidence and determination, as if he was declaring his bravery and fearlessness to the world.

"The Ming army today has powerful weapons to defend the city. If we continue fighting without knowing it, it will only increase casualties. It is better to withdraw first and find out what the other side is using." His eyes flashed with wisdom and calmness, as if he had already seen the road to victory in the future.

"As long as we can think of a way to deal with it, it won't be too late to attack the city!" He said firmly, his voice full of determination and conviction, as if he was already prepared for everything.

However, Jing Changhao sneered: "You are greedy for merit and advance recklessly, march slowly, have lax military discipline, and are afraid of the enemy and cowardly in battle! You can be punished for any of these!" His voice was full of anger and threats, as if he wanted to throw Luo Wenbin into an abyss from which there was no escape.

Luo Wenbin was speechless. He just didn't want the people and soldiers to die in vain, but Jing Changhao accused him of being cowardly. His heart was filled with grief and helplessness, as if he was being held tightly by an invisible hand and couldn't breathe.

At this time, Li Zicheng put away his clairvoyance and looked around. His eyes flashed with depth and wisdom, as if he had seen through everything. Finally, he spoke: "Sound the horn to withdraw the troops!" Although his voice was not loud, it was full of majesty and power, as if it could shake the world.

"Your Majesty!" Jing Changhao's face was extremely ugly, and his eyes flashed with unwillingness and anger, as if he wanted to devour all opponents. "Now we have finally filled the moat with long wood, and the soldiers attacking the city have pried off a lot of bricks on the city wall. If we stop fighting now, the Ming army will definitely repair it, and then all our previous efforts will be wasted!" His voice was full of anxiety and helplessness, as if he had already seen the future failure.

"My words are orders. Tell everyone to withdraw the troops." Li Zicheng said firmly. His eyes flashed with determination and faith, as if he had made all preparations. He knew that this war was not only a military contest, but also a political game. He had to remain calm and wise in order to win this game.

……

"The bandits have retreated! The bandits have retreated!" The shouts of the defenders on the city were filled with joy and excitement. They knew that this victory was not only a military victory, but also a psychological victory. They used their courage and wisdom to defend the city and their homes and loved ones.

The Shun army began to retreat, and their figures looked particularly lonely and desolate in the afterglow of the setting sun. They knew that the war was not over yet and the road ahead was still very long. But they also believed that as long as they united as one and moved forward courageously, they would be able to overcome all difficulties and challenges.

"God bless the Ming Dynasty, Your Majesty is wise!" Li Banghua, the cabinet chief and minister of war, told Lin Xiaofeng the good news immediately. His voice was full of excitement and joy, as if he had seen the road to victory in the future. "The bandits attacked for most of the day, suffered heavy casualties, and finally could not help but retreat." His eyes flashed with wisdom and calmness, as if he was ready to face all challenges.

"The soldiers worked together and were not afraid of life and death, so they deserve to be rewarded!" Lin Xiaofeng said. His voice was full of determination and resolution, as if he wanted to personally give this honor and reward to every brave soldier. He knew that this victory was not only a military victory, but also a spiritual victory. It gave everyone hope and a future, and made everyone understand the importance of unity and courage.

However, when the word "reward" was mentioned, Li Banghua's face turned ugly. The money in the treasury was really tight! A lot of money had been spent on reissuing military pay, recruiting soldiers, raising food, making gunpowder, purchasing rolling logs and stones, etc. Now that the war had just started, there were still many places where money was needed! Especially the pension would cost a lot of money! His heart was filled with helplessness and anxiety, as if he was being held tightly by an invisible hand and couldn't breathe.

"Today, all those who defended the city will be rewarded with five taels of silver each, and those who did not participate in the battle will be rewarded with one tael of silver each! The money will come from the treasury!" Lin Xiaofeng said generously. His voice was full of determination and resolution, as if he wanted to personally give this honor and reward to every brave soldier. He knew that this reward was not only a material reward but also a spiritual encouragement. It allowed everyone to see that their efforts were recognized and rewarded, and it also made everyone more determined to defend their homes and loved ones.

"I obey your order!" Li Banghua breathed a sigh of relief. He knew that this order was not only an order but also a responsibility and mission. He must do his best to execute this order so that every brave soldier can get the rewards and honors they deserve.

"What are the casualties?" Lin Xiaofeng asked with concern. His eyes were full of concern and worry, as if he had regarded every casualty as his own family.

"Your Majesty, our army lost 141 soldiers in this battle, 246 were seriously injured, and 309 were slightly injured," Li Banghua replied. His voice was filled with grief and mourning, as if he was mourning for every casualty. "The enemy army lost about 3,000 people, and an estimated 4,000 were injured," he added. His eyes were full of wisdom and calmness, as if he was analyzing the gains and losses and the outcome of this war.

Lin Xiaofeng was silent for a moment, feeling a lot of emotion in his heart. The development of hot weapons has indeed accelerated the progress of war, and the speed of killing is shocking. Looking back at the time when there were no firearms, it would take at least one or two days to kill 3,000 enemies by defending the city, but now it only takes more than half a day. However, the ratio of ten to one between the attacker and the defender seems to be safe, but in fact it is quite problematic. Lin Xiaofeng knows this very well, so he pays more attention to the identity and background of the casualties.

"What percentage of the casualties among the bandits are civilians and soldiers?" he asked. His voice was full of wisdom and calmness, as if he was trying to uncover the truth of this war. "Your Majesty, civilians accounted for 80% and soldiers accounted for 20%!" Li Banghua replied. His voice was full of helplessness and grief, as if he was mourning for those innocent civilians.

As expected... Lin Xiaofeng was silent again. He understood that most of the 70,000 casualties when Li Zicheng attacked Ningwu Pass were ordinary people, and his own army only accounted for 20% at most. This means that Li Zicheng used human lives to break through the city! This cruel method made Lin Xiaofeng feel extremely angry and sad! He decided to find a way to stabilize the confidence of the army and the people, so that they would believe that they could defend the city, protect their country, and be willing to fight for their country!

After thinking for a moment, Lin Xiaofeng ordered: "Li Gelao drafted an order that all soldiers and civilians who died in the battle would be given 50 taels of silver as compensation, and 2 taels more for each higher rank. (End of this chapter)