The Resolute Cannon Fodder Teaching In Ancient Time

Chapter 65: Sixty-Five Treasures ✨

In the small border town, official duties were relatively relaxed, allowing officials the flexibility to skip work when no urgent matters required attention. However, Xu Zhen, being conscientious, didn't abandon her post without notice. She courteously submitted a leave request to the regional governor before heading to the military camp with Little Beggar.

The Shuiniu Camp had recently moved to the Hei Shui border from near Pingliang, maintaining vigilance against the Hu people in Hei Shui City. The area was scattered with ancient ruins that provided cover for soldiers on reconnaissance. Inside the city, the Hu people had imprisoned the local residents for their entertainment, indulging in feasting and revelry.

The air was thick with black smoke from signal fires, and angry voices resonated from the military tents.

"I will crush those Hu people to dust one day!"

As Xu Zhen entered the camp, she heard this fervent declaration. Looking toward the source, she noticed three or four scholars gathered in a tent. One was angrily shouting, while another attempted to calm him, saying, "The rooster crows, the cat catches mice. Our job is to strategize; leave the crushing to the soldiers."

Others joined in to offer comfort, and the man eventually sat down, disgruntled, as discussions resumed. These were likely the camp's strategists.

While Xu Zhen listened briefly, she followed Xun Qianchun to another tent, where she was introduced to the female commander in charge of the Shuiniu Camp.

Upon seeing Xu Zhen, the female commander set down her longsword and approached her, saying, "So it’s Officer Xu. Your analysis of the Longmen battle was brilliant. With your help in breaching Hei Shui, our chances of success would significantly increase!"

Xu Zhen modestly replied, "I was just lucky last time."

The female commander continued to praise Xu Zhen, describing her as "a rare talent" and "one in a hundred years."

Xu Zhen graciously accepted the compliments.

The female commander then remarked, "I suppose you heard about this from your sister. We've recruited several strategists already, but we certainly welcome your presence."

In the military camp, Xu Zhen observed the presence of numerous strategists. She commented, "If there are already enough people here, I’d prefer to stay in the tent. The journey between Hei Shui and Pingliang is long, and my main concern is ensuring Xiao Chun's safety during the siege."

The female commander noted Xu Zhen’s focus on family rather than national affairs, but understanding the sisterly bond, she agreed. "Your concern for your sister is understandable. I can authorize this. Now that Xu Chun Chun is a captain, having a family member nearby shouldn't be an issue."

With this, Xu Zhen received the permission she needed. Overjoyed, she took the official document and walked with Little Beggar to their tent.

Most tents in the Shuiniu Camp housed four soldiers, but Xun Qianchun, who had been promoted to captain for her battlefield prowess, lived alone. Her fierce reputation left her without roommates, making Xu Zhen’s presence a welcome use of space.

The tents, white and stained with yellow dust, were pitched carelessly on the ground. Xun Qianchun's tent was small, containing just a desk, a cabinet, and a bed. Xu Zhen placed her belongings down and sat on the bed.

Xun Qianchun poured her some water and briefed her on the current battle situation, detailing the frequency of Hu attacks and the grain supply issues. The camp's provisions could last another six months. If other areas of Yongzhou had good harvests, they might manage.