Ming Dynasty: Pick up attributes from the battlefield to create the Ming Dynasty

Chapter 180 Zhu Quan: Brother Zhu! Zhu Ying: Brother Zhu Quan!

A day goes by in the blink of an eye!
The war subsided.

The city has its own army to clean up the battlefield and remove any traces of the battle.

Night fell quietly.

Zhu Ying concluded his inspection tour of the city and returned to the military camp of the Daning Border Army.

In the military camp!
A vast training ground.

The soldiers were sitting together, making a lively scene.

"Oh!"

A soldier shouted excitedly, "The cooks are really going all out today, they even have mutton!"

Following his gaze.

A large sheep was roasting over the campfire, its aroma filling the air.

"Haha, we're going to eat our fill today!"

Another soldier echoed, his face also showing great excitement.

"Brothers, let's eat our fill today! This was specially requested by the General from the Grand General for us."

"Our Great Ning border army was the first to break through Yuandu and made the greatest contribution. This is the General's reward for us!"

"It's been so long since I've had any meat, today I can finally eat my fill..."

Inside the military camp's drill ground, many bonfires burned brightly, illuminating the entire area.

A whole sheep was roasting over the campfire, and there was even beef, which was forbidden to be killed in the Ming Dynasty.

These were all spoils of war captured from the city, and now, within the authority granted to them by Guo Ying'en, they became delicacies at the soldiers' victory banquet.

after all!

The Yuan capital and the captured cities of the Northern Yuan are still under military control, not under government control, and the laws of the Ming Dynasty have not yet been fully implemented.

This Northern Expedition resulted in a great victory over the Northern Yuan, with numerous cattle and sheep captured.

The entire training ground of the Daning Border Army was filled with the rich aroma of meat, which greatly increased the appetite of the soldiers.

Many soldiers were very excited, eating meat heartily while talking loudly, with laughter and cheers rising and falling.

Unfortunately, since the Northern Expedition was not yet completely over, in order to maintain the army's discipline and combat effectiveness, drinking alcohol was not allowed at this time, and the soldiers could only enjoy the pleasure of eating meat to their heart's content.

On the command platform in the center of the drill ground, Zhu Ying strode up to the platform, his gaze sweeping over the soldiers below, and then he shouted loudly, "Brothers!"

The shout echoed through the night, instantly piercing the noisy atmosphere and silencing the entire training ground.

The tens of thousands of soldiers of the Da Ning border army below all looked at Zhu Ying on the command platform, their eyes filled with fervor and reverence.

For every soldier of the Daning Border Army, having followed Zhu Ying in his campaigns for many years, Zhu Ying had long become a god of war in their hearts, and the soul of the entire Daning army.

Over the years, the Da Ning border army has fought in Liaodong and invaded the Northern Yuan, experiencing countless battles large and small, gaining rich combat experience and fighting with unparalleled bravery.

Even compared to the large army led by Lan Yu and his men, the Da Ning border army participated in more and fiercer battles.

Under Zhu Ying's command, the Daning Border Army created a miracle.

Despite experiencing countless brutal battles, the casualties of the Daning Border Army were minimal compared to other garrison armies.

On the battlefield, 70% of the soldiers were wounded, 30% were killed, and sometimes even close to 80% were wounded, but most of them were able to survive and recover.

In contrast, other garrison troops often suffered casualties of 70% of their soldiers in actual frontal battles and offensive campaigns, with only 20% being wounded.

Even when facing the 100,000 iron cavalry of the Northern Yuan, the strongest cavalry force in the world, Zhu Ying led the Da Ning border army to successfully defeat them and inflict a great defeat on the Yuan army.

The difficulties and achievements are self-evident.

For these soldiers, their survival to this day and their numerous military achievements are all thanks to their general, Zhu Ying.

Every time he went into battle, Zhu Ying always took the lead and charged ahead. His bravery and outstanding command earned him the deep respect and trust of his soldiers.

"Meet the General!"

next moment.

Tens of thousands of soldiers shouted in unison across the entire training ground, their voices resounding through the night sky, deafeningly loud.

This also reveals Zhu Ying's status and the soldiers' respect for him from these shouts.

"Brothers!"

Zhu Ying declared loudly, "Today is the day of great celebration as our army breaches the Yuan capital!"

"As the first army to break through the Yuan capital, our Great Ning Border Army became famous throughout the country and also received the General's reward."

"Although there is no wine today, there is plenty of meat!"

"Brothers, eat as much as you like. This is also an encouragement for you to fight the enemy with all your might."

"After the Northern Expedition is over, I will personally host a banquet in Daning Prefecture and drink to my heart's content with everyone!"

Zhu Ying's voice rang out, carrying encouragement to all the soldiers.

"The general is mighty!"

"The general is wise!"

"Follow the general to the death..."

The soldiers on the drill ground cheered excitedly once again, their voices filled with support and love for Zhu Ying.

"Began to eat!"

Zhu Ying burst into laughter, and his hearty laughter infected everyone present.

Subsequently.

He sat directly on the command platform, sitting with his generals.

The old comrades from the past are still here, and they are now gathered around the command platform, each of them a general of the rank of garrison commander.

Chen Heng, Zhang Wu, Liu Zhen, Wei Quan, and the others were all there.

"Brothers, what are you all standing there for?"

Zhu Ying glanced at it and laughed, "Eat!"

Subsequently.

Zhu Ying was the first to tear off a piece of mutton from the campfire and began to eat it with great relish.

Although the food of this era was not as delicious as that of later generations, Zhu Ying had long since gotten used to it.

"Did you hear that? The general is starting to eat!"

"Let's eat!"

"The cattle and sheep of Beiyuan are famously delicious; we can't let them go to waste!"

"eat……"

The generals responded enthusiastically, without the slightest hesitation.

Like Zhu Ying, they tore off pieces of mutton from the campfire and ate them heartily.

In the military, the atmosphere is so pure; everyone, regardless of rank or status, is a brother fighting for a common goal.

Especially in Zhu Ying's army, there was no infighting; everyone treated each other with honesty and openness.

This pure and sincere atmosphere is what Zhu Ying likes the most, and his many years of military life have completely immersed him in it.

Under Zhu Ying's influence, the Da Ning border army completely transformed into the kind of army Zhu Ying desired, embodying camaraderie and brotherhood.

At this time.

Xiao Han quickly walked up behind Zhu Ying, bowed slightly, and said respectfully, "General, Prince Ning has arrived."

"Since you're here, please come in."

Zhu Ying maintained his smile and spoke calmly.

A few days ago, Zhu Ying learned of Zhu Quan's identity, but he did not think much of it, nor was he afraid of Zhu Quan's royal status.

In his view, Zhu Quan was born into the royal family, which was a good thing for him, and there was nothing particularly important about it.

A moment later, Zhu Quan strode up to the command platform.

He was still wearing the royal robes that signified his status, but at this moment he showed no airs of royalty whatsoever. With a sincere smile on his face, he said, "General Zhu, please forgive me for coming uninvited."

Zhu Quan also behaved very gently at this moment.

"Your Highness Prince Ning is too kind."

Zhu Ying responded with a smile, his tone carrying a hint of respect: "This is a victory celebration banquet for our Great Ning border army. As the Prince of Great Ning, Your Highness should also join in the celebration."

"Come, please sit down."

"Just don't look down on our military generals for not knowing proper etiquette."

As Zhu Ying spoke, he warmly invited Zhu Quan to sit down, displaying a generous attitude that showed both respect for the prince and the forthrightness of a military general.

"Haha."

Zhu Quan laughed heartily and said, "I have always longed for the military, how could I possibly look down on it?"

talking.

Without any hesitation, Zhu Quan sat down next to Zhu Ying.

same.

This was his first time participating in such an event, and his eyes were filled with curiosity and excitement, clearly showing great interest in the lively military camp scene.

It's clear that he thoroughly enjoys this harmonious atmosphere within the entire army and longs to be a part of it.

"Come, Your Highness, don't be so polite."

Zhu Ying smiled, reached out and tore a leg of lamb off the campfire, and handed it to Zhu Quan in a very natural manner, without any attempt to curry favor.

"Thanks."

Zhu Quan took the lamb leg with a grateful smile on his face. Without any disgust, he immediately took a bite and then said with a smile, "General Zhu, although I am a prince, please don't keep calling me Prince Ning. Just call me by my name. I won't call you General Zhu either. You are older than me, so I will call you Brother Zhu."

Zhu Quan's eyes revealed sincerity and friendliness. He genuinely wanted to befriend Zhu Ying, setting aside his royal status and airs, hoping to establish a friendship with Zhu Ying like any other ordinary friend.

It is clear that Zhu Quan has great affection and respect for Zhu Ying. He longs to become a true friend of Zhu Ying, rather than just an interaction based on social status.

"Haha." Zhu Ying laughed loudly upon hearing this, and said, "In that case, I won't stand on ceremony."

"The Zhu Quan brothers."

Zhu Ying was naturally very forthright, and he admired Zhu Quan's unpretentious personality, so he was willing to befriend him.

Compared to Zhu Di's deep thoughts, he still preferred the Prince of Ning, Zhu Quan, who was less calculating and less scheming.

With Zhu Di.

Then we should be wary, but there's no need to be with Zhu Quan.

"Hey." Zhu Quan immediately responded with a smile, then solemnly called out to Zhu Ying, "Brother Zhu."

This sound was full of enthusiasm and sincerity, as if they were old friends who had known each other for many years.

And this scene!
In the days to come, when they looked back, both of them felt that some of the past events were too painful to recall.

Zhu Quan, in particular, feels embarrassed whenever he thinks about being called "Big Brother" today.

But at the moment.

Neither of them was thinking much about it; their feelings were completely pure.

"My age in the military has increased by nearly two years, but my actual age is indeed older than Zhu Quan's."

"His address of 'Brother Zhu' doesn't seem to be wrong."

Zhu Ying thought secretly in his heart.

I didn't think much of it.

Continue to enjoy the celebration banquet with everyone.

Seeing that his relationship with Zhu Ying had become much closer, Zhu Quan also relaxed a bit.

While eating mutton, he asked with a smile, "Brother Zhu, are you really planning to lead your army north to pursue them?"

He was filled with curiosity and concern, clearly very interested in this issue.

This question!
This attracted the attention of other generals.

The generals all stopped what they were doing, looked at Zhu Quan, and then at Zhu Ying.

For this matter.

Chen Heng and Zhang Wu were naturally aware of this; they both knew what Zhu Ying's goal was.

Naturally, they followed suit, but the other generals were unaware of this.

"Even if I don't want to, the Emperor will eventually issue an order to pursue them."

Zhu Ying smiled, his face full of confidence.

Hear the words.

"Indeed, given Father Emperor's ambitions." Zhu Quan nodded in agreement with Zhu Ying's words. He knew Zhu Yuanzhang's ambitions well, and the Northern Expedition was an inevitable decision.

"Since I have bestowed upon him the title of Marquis of Champion, which has been sought after by countless generals throughout history, then I should do what a Marquis of Champion should do."

"This battle is a must."

"Emperor Yuan must die." "Northern Yuan must descend into chaos."

"This is the true significance of this Northern Expedition."

"Only in this way can the Han people of the northern frontier truly enjoy a few years of peace."

"Otherwise, the people of the northern frontier will not feel at ease."

Zhu Ying said very seriously.

Hear the words.

The surrounding generals of the Da Ning border army also responded one after another: "We swear to follow the general to the death!"

It's clear that every general genuinely wanted to follow Zhu Ying, and they didn't ask any questions; following their general was the right thing to do.

Zhu Quan was also deeply moved. Looking at these generals who still reeked of blood and exuded murderous intent, he couldn't help but exclaim, "Brother Zhu is truly remarkable!"

"In the past, the Da Ning border army was not particularly outstanding in guarding Da Ning Prefecture. The Beiping army was the best in the northern frontier. However, with Brother Zhu taking command and becoming the commander of Da Ning, the Da Ning border army has become the strongest army in the northern frontier."

between words.

Zhu Quan's eyes were filled with admiration and envy; clearly, he probably longed to be like Zhu Ying deep down.

"If the Northern Expedition ends, how wonderful it would be if I could guard Daning Prefecture with Brother Zhu."

Zhu Quan spoke with a sense of anticipation, clearly expressing what he was thinking.

He knew Zhu Ying's abilities and prestige well. If he could guard Daning Prefecture with Zhu Ying in the future, he would surely be able to keep the area safe and at the same time make his governance of Daning Prefecture more perfect and gain the recognition of Yingtian.

Clearly, the latter sentence was what Zhu Quan was really thinking.

If that's really the case, then it would be a tremendous blessing for him.

"Haha," Zhu Ying replied with a laugh, "If I could stay in Daning Prefecture, that would be excellent."

This was not a lie; he also hoped to continue guarding Daning Prefecture.

However, the expressions of the surrounding Da Ning generals changed, as if they had thought of something.

After this Northern Expedition, Zhu Ying's military achievements were all worthy of individual reward.

He first broke through the border city, captured countless cities, decisively defeated the Northern Yuan cavalry, and captured the Yuan capital... Anyone could imagine that after the Northern Expedition, Zhu Ying would inevitably be promoted and ennobled.

Zhu Ying will likely not hold the position of Commander of the Daning Garrison in the future, and will inevitably move to a higher position.

Although they knew that Zhu Ying's promotion was a good thing, the thought of Zhu Ying leaving in the future filled them with unease and reluctance.

Zhu Quan's words naturally made the generals of Da Ning think about the future.

What will they do if their general really leaves?
They had become accustomed to fighting under Zhu Ying's leadership and were completely dependent on and trusting of him. They could not imagine how they would get through the days without Zhu Ying.

"General."

At this moment, Chen Heng could no longer hold back. His face was filled with anxiety and pleading as he looked at Zhu Ying and said, "If you are promoted and no longer stay in Daning, could you take me with you? I am willing to follow you to the death."

Chen Heng's words were full of determination; he was willing to follow Zhu Ying, wherever they went.

As soon as he finished speaking, the generals' eyes lit up, as if they had seen a glimmer of hope.

Then, they all looked at Zhu Ying and pleaded, "We also want to follow you, General. Please do not abandon us."

At this moment, all of the dozens of generals present were in the same situation.

Their faces were filled with anticipation and longing, hoping that Zhu Ying would grant their request.

It's easy to imagine!
How highly Zhu Ying held a place in their hearts.

They had gone through countless life-and-death experiences with Zhu Ying, and had long since forged a deep bond of friendship.

In their hearts, Zhu Ying was not only their general, but also their brother and their support.

"Zhu Ying's prestige in the border army of Daning is truly unmatched."

Zhu Quan thought to himself, equally amazed.

"If he can stay in Daning, that would be best. But if he can't stay, I hope the Daning border troops can stay in Daning."

Zhu Quan was well aware of the importance of the Da Ning border army and hoped to use its strength to protect the safety of Da Ning Prefecture.

After all, within the present-day Daning Prefecture, there exist the Daning Guard and the Huizhou Guard.

Even Zhu Quan himself did not know which army he would control when he became king.

All of this was before the will of Heaven had arrived; everything was still unknown.

Looking at the generals before him, Zhu Ying smiled slightly, his eyes filled with warmth and emotion.

then.

Zhu Ying spoke up, "What are you saying?"

"The Northern Expedition is not over yet, and I am still the commander of Daming."

"Even if he gets promoted someday, won't he still have the capital city?"

"With so many troops in the northern frontier, do you really think there won't be a place for me, Zhu Ying, to hide?"

"Today, I want to tell you brothers that I do not like the prosperity of the Central Plains, but I prefer to guard the northern border for the country and I prefer to be with my brothers in the army."

"If I am ever promoted, I, Zhu Ying, will certainly petition the Emperor to allow me to be stationed in the northern border and safeguard its peace."

Zhu Ying's voice was firm, and his expression revealed his love for the northern frontier and his promise to his brothers.

Upon hearing this, the generals were all extremely excited: "General, you are brilliant!"

this moment.

They all smiled with relief, feeling more satisfied with Zhu Ying's promise than with the mutton in their hands.

Having followed Zhu Ying for so long, they had long regarded him as their military soul and reliance, so how could they bear to part with him?
"Zhu Ying is indeed different from ordinary people."

Zhu Quan thought to himself, filled with admiration.

"Everyone else wants to go to Yingtian to enjoy the prosperity of the capital."

"But he was actually willing to stay in the northern frontier. Such a remarkable person is truly a rare find."

Zhu Quan's admiration for Zhu Ying deepened, and he became even more determined to befriend Zhu Ying.

Time passed slowly!

The border troops in Daning were in a state of excitement. Although there was no wine, the great victory still thrilled countless soldiers.

They chatted and laughed, sharing their experiences and joys from the battle, having a wonderful time.

After finishing his meal, Zhu Ying got up and prepared to return to his tent to wash up and get some rest.

After a busy day, he also felt a little tired.

But just as he returned to camp, he saw someone already waiting outside the tent.

This man was Zhu Neng, the commander of Zhu Di's guards.

Upon seeing Zhu Ying arrive, Zhu Neng immediately went to greet him.

"Commander Zhu." Zhu Ying looked at Zhu Neng, frowned slightly, and asked with surprise, "What are you doing here?"

Obviously.

Zhu Neng's waiting at this moment was somewhat strange.

"Champion Marquis." Zhu Neng immediately bowed respectfully and said, "I have come on the orders of the Prince of Yan to request an audience with the Champion Marquis."

"The Prince of Yan has important matters to discuss with the Marquis of Champion."

Hear the words.

"Then I'll wash up first, and then I'll go," Zhu Ying nodded and said.

He was covered in blood, which had not yet been washed off.

“Champion Marquis,” Zhu Neng said with a smile, “that’s perfect then.”

"His Highness the Prince of Yan is currently waiting at the Prime Minister's residence in the city, where there is a bathhouse."

"His Highness the Prince of Yan has also prepared fine wine, intending to have a long talk with the Marquis of Champion by candlelight."

Zhu Neng's smile seemed to hide a deeper meaning, making it hard to fathom.

Hear this!

Zhu Ying felt increasingly uneasy.

"What does Zhu Di want to do? Why is he inviting me to take a bath for no reason? And asking me to drink? Does he want to do something?"
Zhu Ying pondered to himself that Zhu Di's behavior this time was indeed somewhat strange.

He knew Zhu Di's character well, and Zhu Di's sudden and enthusiastic invitation must have had its purpose.

after all.

Historically, Zhu Di was a prince who rebelled, and he had been preparing for it for many years.

As far as Zhu Ying knew, Zhu Di was already prepared.

Accumulate wealth to support an army.

However, given Zhu Ying's current attributes, he is not afraid of being poisoned or any tricks Zhu Di might play.

If things become clear, that would be even better.

"it is good."

"Then go ahead."

Zhu Ying remained calm and nodded slightly in response.

Say it.

Zhu Ying walked towards the warhorse beside the tent, and then nimbly mounted it.

At this moment, Liu Lei had already led a group of personal guards, all waiting in formation.

Seeing Zhu Ying mount his horse, Liu Lei waved his hand, and his personal guards mounted their warhorses one after another.

The sound of horses' hooves rose.

The group headed into the city.

Soon.

The original site of the Prime Minister's residence of the Northern Yuan Dynasty.

Although Zhu Di was a prince, he dared not overstep his bounds in this Yuan capital. He did not dare to live in the palace, which symbolized imperial power, but instead temporarily resided in the Prime Minister's residence.

Zhu Ying, led by Zhu Neng, arrived at the rear hall of the Prime Minister's residence.

A palace came into view.

The palace door was half-closed, and steam escaped from it.

Inside the palace.

Amidst the swirling mist, a bathhouse stands out, its water steaming hot.

Zhu Di was leaning against the edge of the bathtub, his eyes closed, his expression seemingly relaxed, but actually revealing a hint of solemnity.

"Your Highness, the Marquis of Champion has arrived."

Zhu Neng's respectful voice came from outside the hall. Zhu Di slowly opened his eyes, a complex and indescribable look flashing across them, seemingly hesitant yet resolute.

He knew that some things had reached a point where they had to be done, and if he didn't act now, he might never have another chance.

"please."

Zhu Di spoke in a deep voice, his tone conveying authority.

With this command.

Several maids inside the hall moved lightly and slowly pushed open the hall door.

When they saw Zhu Ying standing in front of the door covered in blood, they turned pale and their faces were filled with fear.

He was clearly frightened by Zhu Ying.

It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say they crawled out of a pile of dead bodies.

"Help the Marquis of Champion remove his clothes," Zhu Di ordered unhurriedly.

"Yes."

Although the maids were afraid, they dared not disobey the order and could only step forward cautiously to help Zhu Ying remove his armor and clothes.

Every movement was extremely cautious, for fear of offending the seemingly fierce general in front of him.

Zhu Yingze turned his gaze to Zhu Di in the bath, who was quite different from usual.

In the past, when he first met Zhu Di or when they were together in the army, he always restrained his sharpness and appeared calm and low-key.

But at this moment, amidst the misty vapor, Zhu Di seemed like a different person, radiating his kingly majesty without reservation, his eyes sharp as an eagle, revealing his innate domineering aura.

"What exactly is he going to do today?"

Zhu Ying stared at Zhu Di, lost in thought.

His gaze fell on Zhu Di, trying to discern a clue from his expression and demeanor.

however.

Zhu Di's expression was calm and inscrutable.

A sense of vigilance rose in Zhu Ying's heart, along with a great deal of curiosity. He wondered what would happen next and what Zhu Di's true purpose was.
……

(End of this chapter)