Chapter 1060 "Striving for Victory."

On the east bank of Yajiang River, there was a deafening sound of gunfire and cannons within and outside the Ming army's large camp, causing a great shock to Fei Yangwu and other Qing enemy forces in Jiuliancheng.
The two places faced each other across the river, with only a few miles of straight-line distance between them.
Both sides sent scouts to climb high and observe, and they could even see each other's flags and camps.
In fact, before the battle started with General Fei Yangwu leading his forces to launch a surprise attack on the Ming army's main camp in Engtou, he had already been using a telescope to closely monitor the situation near the Ming army's camp in Jiangdong.
Just the scene he hoped to see, with Elrosaycen and Engtu leading over two thousand cavalry to break through the Ming army camp, and then go on a killing spree, winning him a glorious victory.
However, the final result not only left him extremely disappointed, but also made him feel a painful sensation as if his arms were being chopped off. At the same time, he felt an overwhelming feeling of fear and trembling.
He and Tong Shounian, who accompanied him, stood at the highest point of the Nine Liancheng City wall, overseeing almost the entire process of Engtu leading his troops to charge into the camp and then fall into a trap, and subsequently being quickly annihilated.
At the same time, they also witnessed almost the entire retreat of Elrosain and his vanguard soldiers, but were trapped near the Ming army camp and ultimately suffered a tragic defeat as they were surrounded and annihilated.
Of course, standing at the highest point of the city wall of Jiuliancheng with a telescope in hand, Fei Yangwu also witnessed the gruesome scene of the captured Blue Banner soldier falling off the horse and being bound in an open field, one by one, being beheaded and displayed.
What made him infuriated to the point of losing his temper was when he recognized the executioner through the telescope, and he realized that the person was none other than Niu Luchangjing, a subordinate of Engt Mongolian Jiala.
Although he couldn't recall the name of this person, Niu Lu Zhangjing, for a moment, he was very clear that whether in front of him as the Duke of the State or in front of Jiala Zhangjing Engel, this Niu Lu Zhangjing was nothing more than a submissive servant.
Counterattacks from their own subordinates are particularly chilling to him.
Because he is well aware that the true Jurchens of Jianzhou do not have many able-bodied men.
Once the Mongols of the Eight Banners and the Manchu Eight Banners lose trust in each other, the end of the Jurchens of Jianzhou will truly be not far away.
Of course, the betrayal of Niu Lujingjing, a Mongolian cow, by the recording seal of the capital, does not imply disloyalty among the Eight Banners Mongols, but it sets a dangerous precedent.
In previous major battles, there were many Niu Lujingjing who died in battle, and there were also quite a few of higher ranks, but very few defected or betrayed after being captured in the heat of the battle.
However, now not only are the Eight Banners Han troops not as reliable as before, but even the Niu Lu, who is under the Eight Banners Mongol, has become unreliable.
In this way, witnessing the entire battle near the Jiangdong Ming army camp that was suddenly launched by his own men but swiftly extinguished by the already prepared Ming army, Fei Yangwu, filled with a mixture of shock and fear, stayed in bed and did not get up for the rest of the afternoon. Translated:
In April, the weather is hot at noon and cold in the morning and evening. Fe Yangwu, who has not had a good rest for several days, caught a cold on the city wall of Jiuliancheng and was also frightened. In the afternoon, he had a splitting headache and felt weak all over his body. In the evening, his whole body started to have a high fever that wouldn't go away. He was occasionally conscious, but sometimes fell into a drowsy state and was unable to see things clearly.
In an instant, the Qing army in Jiulian City was immediately filled with fear and chaos.
As one of the few high-ranking figures remaining by Fei Yangwu's side, Tong Shounian celebrated the decision to abandon the Hu Mountain Battery and retreat the entire army to defend the fortified Jiulian City. However, he also immediately dispatched messengers out of the city to the west, urgently reporting the failed attack of the Qing army from Jiulian City on the Ming army's main camp. He also reported the deaths of E Luosai Chen and Engtu, as well as the critical illness of the Duke Zhen of Guo, Fei Yangwu, to Fenghuang City.
In the early morning of the fifteenth day of the fourth month of the fifteenth year of the Chongzhen period, also known as the Chongde seventh year, Zheng, the Prince of Qing, who was stationed in the city of Fenghuang, had just woken up when he received an urgent military report from Jiuliancheng.
"What exactly is Fei Yangwu up to?! I have repeatedly warned him to prioritize defense, prioritize the entire army, and not act recklessly. Why doesn't he listen?!" Fei Yangwu is not following the orders and advice of the speaker.
In the face of the hurriedly arrival at the Prince's Mansion, the newly appointed Minister of Blue Bordered Banner, Lieutenant General Babutai, who is responsible for reporting the military situation of the Ninth Fortification Division, as well as the Han soldiers from the Blue Bordered Banner, Manyi Li and Jiang Erhalang, were shocked and angry.
"It's a waste that I have repeatedly praised and elevated him to the Emperor and his royal master, saying that he is mature and prudent, understanding the overall situation, and capable of handling important tasks. But now, it turns out he is simply useless!"
"That Engetu has always been impulsive and reckless, not worth lamenting his death. But his brother Rosaychem has been serving under the sweat for a long time, fighting in numerous battles of all sizes. How is it that he is still so frivolous and unreliable!"
Jie'erhalang angrily cursed at Fei Yangwu, who was bedridden, and Engelto and Elorsson, who had already perished, as he carefully read the urgent military report from Jiuliancheng.
Ba Butai, who was appointed as the Minister of Left Flag Affairs of the Blue Bordered Banner at the end of last year, and Duo Jili, who took up the position of Han Army Manchurian Mountain in the Blue Bordered Banner earlier this year, one stood up straight while the other kneeled on both knees, both enduring Jie'erhalang's sudden rage together.
This Babutai is the son of Huang Taiji's concubine Lao Nu, and although he is one of the many brothers of Huang Taiji, he has no status and presence.
When Huang Taiji just ascended the throne, he once tried to win over and promote his several illegitimate brothers who were not valued during the time of his father Nurhaci, in order to divide the power factions of the Great Beile Daisan, Second Beile Amin, and Third Beile Manggurtai, to consolidate his own position. Therefore, he temporarily entrusted Babutai with important responsibilities, making him in charge of the affairs of the Left Yinzheng Yellow Banner.
However, Bob Tyson soon made a misstep and was swiftly caught and exposed.
From then on, Bob Tyson, lacking in experience in struggles, essentially became idle and scattered.
If it weren't for the fact that there have been too many with prestige, ability, and trustworthiness fading away among the royal family in recent years, I wouldn't have thought of this somewhat mediocre Babutai, letting him serve as the Minister of State Affairs in the Blue Bordered Banner.
Although Babutai is the son of a slave, due to being born out of wedlock, he has drifted through life and has only obtained the title of a third-rank assistant general despite his advanced age.
In terms of their noble titles, Babu Tai is far superior to his cousin Jierhalang.
However, in terms of their background, Babu Tai is at least one of the sons of Nurhaci, which makes him somewhat respectable compared to Jierhalang. At least he doesn't have to constantly kneel down before him.
As for the newly appointed Han Chinese banner soldier Man Gushan of the blue-bordered flag, no matter how high his position or authority, he is nothing more than a servant in front of Ji'erhalang. Especially when reporting bad news, he must kneel down.
"Sir, please calm down. After all, Faye Yangwu is still young and may have been a bit careless in his actions. It can be considered forgivable. Besides, we still have control over the Nine Linked City, don't we?"
Bob is very skinny and not tall, completely contrasting with the short, chubby, and wealthy-looking Jerry. He appears quite frail.
He is also several years older than Jerry, considered to be Jerry's cousin. Seeing Jerry getting furious, he hurriedly came out to mediate the situation.
"Moreover, even though Yang Zhen is impressive, currently he is only stationed in Jiangdong and can only confront Jiulian Cheng across the river! As long as Fei Yangwu and the others feel ashamed and become courageous, and firmly hold on to Jiulian Cheng, the overall situation will still be under the control of the prince."
Babutai stroked his sparse beard and spoke confidently, looking somewhat like a literati advising on matters of state.
"Yes, my lord, all the various Han troops under Tong Liu's command have been withdrawn into the Nine Lian City. Although Mengtugua's Mongolian troops and E Luosai's Bulluo have suffered losses, there are still at least eight usable Bulluo troops within the Nine Lian City, accompanied by two thousand auxiliary Ahaha. By relying on the stronghold and defending it, there should be no significant risks in the short term!"
Duo Jili is the second son of He Heli, a prominent general of the Later Jin Dynasty during the era of Nurhaci. He appears to be around fifty years old, with graying braids at the back of his head. He knelt on the ground and spoke, looking like an old and withered man.
He is Huang Taiji, who, at the end of last year, hired one of the former noble descendants as part of his efforts to further consolidate his authority and better control the Eight Banners.
In the original history, due to their age, these individuals were supposed to have already taken a backseat, making way for the younger generation emerging within the royal family.
However, in this life, Yang Zhen and the rise of Jinhai Town changed this.
因为清虏宗室年轻一辈中的许多优秀人物，包括许多年轻有为的元勋子弟，都折在了杨振的手中。
Huang Taiji thought for a while before finally selecting some reliable individuals such as Ba Bu Tai and Duo Ji Li.
However, although these people were dependable, they had never directly engaged with Yang Zhen and the military force in Jin Hai Town. They mistakenly assumed that Yang Zhen and the military force in Jin Hai Town were similar to the Ming army that they had previously encountered. Please let me know if there is anything else I can assist you with.
And this, precisely, is one of the reasons why Prince Zheng Jierhalang has been hesitant to take any rash actions.
In other words, Jierhalang doesn't have much confidence in the people under his command right now.
此时此刻，正是如此，只见他刚听完多积礼所说的短期内九连城当无太大风险的话，怒目一瞪，甩手就把手中拿着的军情塘报冲他摔了过去，同时怒斥道：
"Nonsense! If the fleet from Jinhai Town sails upstream on the Duck Rapids River and reaches the nearby waters of Jiulian City, and they set up heavy artillery bombardment, without Mengtu and E Luoshaicheng's armored soldiers, how long can they hold on to the city?" Translation: "
Ji Erhalang's actions and rhetorical questions instantly left Duo Jili speechless.
Even Babutai, who was standing aside, was momentarily dumbfounded.
"The fleet from Jinhai Town?"
"Flowing upstream from the sea?"
The two people murmured quietly, as if talking to themselves, but filled with doubts.
不过，济尔哈朗看见他们这个样子，当下也没再理会他们，而是冲着门外侍卫的一众巴牙喇大声说道：
"Go and bring Gong Adai and Xinda Li here!"
"Yes!"
Bayala, the guard outside, immediately took the order.
Jierhalang then frowned and closed his eyes to rest, no longer speaking.
Babutai and Duo Jili remained still, one standing and one kneeling, both afraid of inviting more misfortune and not daring to make a sound. The scene fell into an awkward silence.
Fortunately, Mele, Zhangjing, Gong Adai, and Xindali have all received an urgent message from Jiulian City. They have all arrived at the prince's mansion and are waiting in the front yard for an audience. So, the two of them quickly rushed over.
Just as the two of them hurriedly entered the room and knelt down, Jierhalang opened his eyes and said to one of the burly men
: "Xindali, I heard that the Yajiang Waterway experiences a high tide around the time of the Full Moon each month. Can you confirm if this rumor is true?"
"In response to Lord's question, this is not a rumor. Every month around the full moon, there is a high tide in the Yajiang River. During this time, the sea water rises significantly, causing the river level to rise as well. Naval ships can then sail against the current through the river mouth and reach the area north of Dachong River mouth!"
Xinda Li, a man of Korean descent, is currently the Mellaizhangjing of Goryeo cattle records under the Xianglan Banner. However, he used to live near the Yajiang River, so he is very familiar with the hydrological conditions of the Yajiang River. He confidently and clearly expresses his knowledge about it. I understand that Xinda Li is knowledgeable about the hydrological conditions of the Yajiang River due to his previous residence in the area. He confidently shares his insights.
This person has a tall and imposing figure, but unfortunately, the ugly money rat tail on his head ruins his magnificent appearance.
"Did you all hear that?"
As soon as Xindali's words fell, Jierhalang immediately turned his gaze to Babutai standing and Duo Jili kneeling. Translated: "
At this moment, the two of them nodded with worried expressions, especially Bobert, who had obviously realized something. After nodding, he immediately continued, saying: "
If a great tide is to be expected on the day of the full moon, then that day is today because today is April 15th, which is the full moon of this month!"
“没错，不是今日夜间，就是明日夜间。本王以为，杨振之所以驻兵江东，等待的也必是这一个机会！”
“王爷，这样的话，九连城岂不是危在旦夕？！”
Duoji Li obviously understood the situation and changed his slightly nonchalant attitude, becoming anxious.
After all, he had been in Phoenix City for several months, although he had not directly clashed with Yang Zhen and his troops, he had heard about the formidable navy in Jinhai Town.
However, Ji Erhan only gave him a cold glance at Dai Jili's slightly belated reaction and did not respond.
The answer was obvious, and there was no need for Ji Erhan to say anything else.
However, at this moment, Gong Ada, who has been silent since entering, suddenly said:
“危险当然是危险，因为一不小心，九连城就会失陷。但要说危在旦夕，倒也不至于。”
Upon hearing Gong Adai's words, Jierhalang, Babutai, Du Jili, and Sindari all focused their attention on him.
Jierhalang furrowed his brows, deep in thought, then picked up the tea cup from the small table next to him, took a sip, realizing it had already gone cold, and spat it back out. Finally, he looked at Gong Adai steadily and said:
What are your thoughts?"
Gong Adai also comes from a noble family, his father being Babala, the youngest brother of Haizhen, an old slave.
Gong Adai, who is now in his thirties, is the fourth son of Babala. He hasn't done as well as Babutai and hasn't even achieved the title of a third-class auxiliary national general. It was only at the end of last year that he became a Meile Zhangjing under the Blue Camp.
However, Gong Adai can be considered as a young faction with some talent among the Qing Dynasty royal members. Jierhalang also values him a lot.
"Thank you, Prince!"
Upon hearing this, Gong Adai immediately stood up and bowed to Jierhalang, saying:
“王爷，金海镇的水师就算抵达九连城外的江面，却也不能直接开上岸，要攻城还是得派出人马弃船上岸！”
“是这个道理，然后呢？”
"As long as their troops abandon the ship and attack the city, our chance will come!"
"Our chance?"
"Yes, our chance! Although Engtu and Elroth have fallen, and we have suffered heavy losses in cavalry soldiers, losing our ability to set ambushes and counterattack outside the city, we still have a cavalry force at Xianshan Fort, and we still have a large number of cavalry soldiers in Phoenix City!"
Gong Adai became more and more excited as he spoke. Just a moment ago, a moment of inspiration struck him, and now it has turned into a complete set of strategies.
"Engtu and E'luosai chen's tactic of launching a surprise attack on the Ming army camp outside the city was not entirely wrong, they just did it too early. Their mistake lie in being too impatient and underestimating the enemy.
If you want to achieve success, it should not be for them to cross the river and engage the Ming army at an advantage. Instead, they should wait for the Ming army to cross the river and attack the Jiuliancheng. If the Ming army dares to establish a camp across the river, then launching an attack at that time will surely lead to a great victory!
"Your point is that..." "
My lord, the victory or defeat has yet to be determined. As long as they withstand the bombardment of the Jinhai Town Navy, and our reinforcements arrive at the battlefield when the Ming army abandons their ships, we will still be the ultimate winner!"
Gong Adai's words successfully stirred up Jierhalang's desire to win.
However, Jierhalang, who has always been cautious, did not immediately express his stance. Instead, he held the cooled teacup and pondered deeply for a long time.
"Your Highness, this servant is willing to lead the troops under my command to go and rescue Jiulian City!"
"This servant is also willing to lead my troops!"
Duo Jili and Xindali, who had been kneeling on the ground, obviously realized the dangers and opportunities that existed at Jiulian City, and vied to express their determination to rescue the city with their respective armies.
However, the suggestion was first put forward by Gong Adai, so Gong Adai also doesn't want to miss this opportunity to make contributions and establish himself.
"Your Highness, in order to successfully rescue Jiulian City and turn defeat into victory, we need to consider two factors: speed and timing. When it comes to speed, there is no one faster than Alihachao in and around the Phoenix City. And when it comes to timing, no one is more suitable than me, Gong Adai, in terms of grasping it!"
"Is that so? Are you saying Gong Adai is more suitable than me, the king?"