Hu Xiaotian's words rang out with resounding conviction and impassioned fervor. Not only did they set Li Yongfu's blood boiling, even Yu Tianxing and Liang Dazhuang, listening nearby, felt their hearts surge and spirits soar. Li Yongfu said, "My lord, we will never be turtles hiding our heads in our shells. Once I return, I'll gather the other officers and petition the Governor again for permission to fight!"
Hu Xiaotian shook his head. "Zhao Dengyun won't agree to let you fight."
Yu Tianxing said from beside them, "General Li, has the Governor ordered you to strengthen security on the southern bank?"
Li Yongfu nodded.
Yu Tianxing said, "He may refuse to let you fight, but once Great Yong soldiers land on the southern bank, you'll have grounds to deal with them."
Li Yongfu was briefly taken aback. Tang Boxi was attacking Eastern Liang Commandery this time. Why would he land on the southern bank? More than thirty thousand troops of the Great Kang Navy were stationed there. Tang Boxi surely would not want to fight on two fronts.
Yu Tianxing said, "Once we defeat the Yong Army, some of their troops are bound to flee toward the southern bank. General Li need only station ambush troops across the river and seal off the shoreline as soon as you spot them retreating."
Li Yongfu wondered privately whether this scholar had lost his wits. Facing a Yong Army ten times their size, he still dreamed of victory! Nevertheless, he nodded. "If fighting breaks out, the Southern Bank Defense Line will certainly become our army's highest priority. We will never let the Yong Army land on the southern bank."
Hu Xiaotian said, "There's one more thing. Refugees have been withdrawing to the southern bank lately. I hope you can help coordinate their reception