It was already July, which counted as the beginning of autumn. On top of that, they were in the midst of the Little Ice Age, and this place lacked the urban heat island effect of modern cities, so the nights were still quite cool.
At the house by the docks, all the windows stood open. A cool breeze wafted through amid the constant chirping of cicadas, and Wang Yan, bare-chested and wearing only loose shorts, felt thoroughly comfortable.
Yet that comfort did not last long before it was interrupted by the urgent sound of someone shoving the door open and barging in.
"Third Master! Third Master!" Qi Dazhu rushed in anxiously. Seeing Wang Yan already seated there, he paused briefly in surprise before hurriedly saying, "Japanese pirates have come. They came from the east, anchored their ships in the river, and are sneaking toward the county town."
Wang Yan ordered, "Send someone to report to Minister Hu. Gather the men. Send a hundred men to watch their ships; the rest will come with me and hit the pirates from behind."
"Third Master, let this humble one go. You should stay behind and command from the rear."
"Get lost and pass on the orders." Wang Yan gave him a light kick, then rose to dress himself. He called over two local militia men to help him put on his leather armor.
In these parts, paper armor was more commonly used when fighting Japanese pirates. It did not rust or deteriorate, cost less to make, and was much lighter. It also offered slightly better protection against Matchlock Musket rounds.
Wang Yan's set of leather armor had been transferred to him by Zhu Qi from the local thousand-household guard post. Zhu Qi had also arranged a long saber for him. There had been