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“Can strategists even ascend the throne?”
Chapter 323 – Sun Ce Launches an Army
Tian Feng was blissfully unaware of the existence of that letter. As he parted ways with Qiao Yan in the Bingzhou governorship, he pondered whether sneaking back to Jizhou under imperial edict from Youzhou was too much of a betrayal for the kindness she had shown him.
Though he had been promoted, thanks to Zhang Niujiao, if it weren’t for Qiao Yan calling him a genius, he would never have had the chance to be Chen Ji’s student, nor would he now be one of the officials in the Shangshutai.
Sometimes, Tian Feng mused about how, from the first year of Guangxi, or rather the first year of Zhao Ning in Ye City, he had spent almost three of the five years serving the Chang’an court, surpassing even the time he’d spent with the Ye court. His current position was higher than what he held there, so he felt justified in thinking of himself as Yuan Feng, not Tian Feng.
Maybe what kept him grounded wasn’t just his loyalty to Yuan Shao but also his sense of duty to his family as a scholar from Hebei.
However, there were times he found himself grappling with conflicting thoughts in the stillness of midnight, questioning his identity—
After the Chang’an court conquered Youzhou, their actual territory had expanded to nearly half of the realm, and if you counted the areas nominally belonging to her, there was even more.
Was it possible that one day Jizhou and Qingzhou would also fall into Qiao Yan’s hands, sparing him from this dilemma?
Yet he couldn’t shake off thoughts like those due to the earlier feud between Qiao Yan and the Qiao family of Yanzhou, reminding himself to wake up.
If all those sent to infiltrate were just like him, having switched sides, what hope was left for the Ye court?
But…
“Indeed, Bingzhou’s sights are the most comforting. Although Guanzhong is the great Han’s land of prosperity, it’s still no match for our Bingzhou’s homey feel,” Tian Feng thought, just as the guard escorting him to Youzhou broke his train of thought.
Another replied, “How can that compare? Lord, you’ve been in Bingzhou for ten years now; even discounting the two years when she was shut away without control, it’s still seven. In Guanzhong, if you count it all, it’s only been three. It’s not easy to establish rules and follow them.”
“That’s true; there’s really no one like our lord who values the people’s livelihood and has made such impactful changes,” the speaker said proudly, “Perhaps in a few years, Guanzhong will have a similar vibe.”
Their conversation wasn’t particularly loud; the sound of their talking melded with the soft clattering of hooves and wheels beside Tian Feng’s cart, allowing him to hear every word clearly.
Not wanting to reveal that he had overheard them, he simply lifted the other side of the curtain and looked out.
Three years ago, he had seen Bingzhou after the autumn harvest; this year, the fields were yet to be harvested, and he could faintly make out that there were indeed a lot of dry, withered stalks— a poor yield compared to last year.
But from Tian Feng’s perspective, the farmers tending to the withered wheat didn’t appear despondent or despairing; instead, they bore a calm demeanor, as if this were merely an inevitable phase of the seasons.
This acceptance of reality was clearly not due to a numbness toward life’s hardships.
While passing through Tian Feng’s convoy, they mentioned that the local factories were starting recruitment for the autumn and winter seasons. Workers could receive their food directly as wages for digging ditches and wells. Others said it was largely thanks to the state controlling things behind the scenes, making it impossible for anyone to peddle grains at inflated prices.
Years ago, Bingzhou did not belong to the Central Plains, and the regions Qiao Yan had dominion over—Youzhou, Bingzhou, Liangzhou, and Yizhou—could not be deemed Central Plains by the standards of the previous years. But now, for these commoners, living in those states might not be a bad thing.
Tian Feng found himself a bit dazed.
Perhaps he had been lifting the curtain for too long, for he suddenly noticed a young boy riding a pony, wandering near the convoy. He looked over and asked, “Where are you headed, sir? I don’t think I’ve seen a cart like yours around here. Are you an official from the capital?”
Tian Feng thought he’d not mistaken anything. The boy’s tone held not just curiosity, but a hint of hidden dread, as if worried that his arrival might shatter the peace of his life.
This tone, so different from the exchanges he had at Hongwen Hall, made Tian Feng acutely aware that he was now in an environment entirely distinct from Jizhou.
The boy had a rolled-up Leping Monthly Report sticking out of his backpack. Given the backpack’s weight and the boy’s age, he was likely a student from the academy.
Tian Feng softened his tone a bit for the sake of those yet to grow into pillars of society.
After all, his journey to Youzhou wasn’t confidential, so he replied, “The Grand Marshal’s subordinates achieved military success in Youzhou; we’re here to deliver commendations.”
The boy’s eyes instantly lit up.
He eagerly asked, “May I ask if General Zhang Wen Yuan is among them?”
That was something Tian Feng couldn’t disclose right now.
But the boy clearly sounded well-informed and quickly changed his tone after seeing Tian Feng smile and remain silent. “If General Wen Yuan is among them, that would be wonderful! He is currently the Prefect of Shanggu District; logically, he should have taken part in the Youzhou campaign. To be honest, I hail from Yanmen County, and we’re all very grateful to General Wen Yuan for guarding Yanmen with his military prowess, preventing the Xianbei from raiding us. If you happen to meet him, please convey our thanks.”
“I won’t delay your journey any longer; I’m off to visit my family now,” he waved at Tian Feng and rode off on his not-so-fast pony.
Tian Feng watched the lively figure of the boy disappear for quite a while before finally turning his gaze away.
The gratitude in the boy’s tone was simple but felt incredibly sincere.
That was a distinctive trait of the Bingzhou people he sensed during his travels.
Thinking about how he would have to lie to Zhang Liao after meeting him, under the pretense of conferring titles onto Lü Bu and Gan Ning, only to escape back into Jizhou never to return felt increasingly burdensome.
After receiving a considerate yet not overly enthusiastic welcome from Zhang Liao, Tian Feng felt a lump in his throat as he tried to find his words.
To his surprise, Zhang Liao said he had received Qiao Yan’s instructions to take Tian Feng for a trip to Zhuo County.
As for why, that was not hard to explain.
Because of the situation in Yizhou, she had come under questioning from Wang Yun. Although she had verbally lashed him out at the time, upon reflection, she felt the need for some assurance, considering they were all officials in the same court.
So why not let Tian Feng, who had been sent to Youzhou to convey imperial edicts, have a good look at the battle line arrangements here, letting the Chang’an court know that the arrangements in Youzhou would never give Yuan Shao an opportunity?
Tian Feng: “…”
What to do when the opponent shows their border defenses to him? Nothing in his limited life experience had prepared him for such an absurd situation.
Yet Zhang Liao seemed oblivious to his intentions and had already summoned everyone except for Lü Bu, Gan Ning, and Sima Yi stationed in Zhuo County, plus Lu Yi and Guo Huai who remained in Liaodong, all to Yuyang to make it easier for Tian Feng to dismiss their appointments before taking him to Zhuo County.
As he absentmindedly pondered whether he shouldn’t hold such high moral standards in a time of great conflict and should be thinking about Jizhou’s situation first, he began to announce the appointments to everyone.
In this attack on Gongsun Zan, the true credit still went to Zhang Liao.
Although Liaodong had initially claimed Gongsun Du’s surrender and executed rebellious Wuhuan forces like Taduo, these were essentially actions aimed at cutting off Gongsun Zan’s eastern support and didn’t count as direct battlefield engagement.
When Tian Feng proposed such standards for military merit at the Shangshutai, he actually had a reasonable justification.
This approach wasn’t meant to overshadow the achievements of Zhuge Liang, Lü Lingju, and others, but to appropriately elevate Zhang Liao, who could effectively hold a position, while maintaining Gongsun Du’s status as a newly surrendered subject in check.
Gongsun Du was not like an average prefect.
He had once harbored ambitions of kingship over Liaodong.
Failing to hold him accountable for his earlier transgressions in Liaodong would count as a reward for him aligning himself with the right side this time, hence it was inconceivable for him to rise in rank again because of military reinforcements!
Thus, the situation on the eastern front would be—
Gongsun Du would retain his original title as the Prefect of Liaodong, assigned the task of supervising the stability along the border with Goguryeo and Fuyu, ordered to assist Lu Yi and Guo Huai in the east to reclaim Lelang County.
Lü Lingju would take up the position of Protector of Wuhuan, with Yan Rou as her assistant.
Zhuge Liang would serve as a strategist in Youzhou.
Sima Yi would become the Deputy of Zhuo County.
Gan Ning would be made the Colonel of the Marine Fleet, with the potential to become the General of the Marine Fleet if he achieved another victory concerning Jizhou.
Lu Yi would serve as the Deputy of Liaodong County.
Guo Huai would take on the role of the Governor of Liaodong County’s military affairs.
Tai Shici would be appointed as the Military Officer of Youzhou.
“Protector of Wuhuan?” Lü Lingju exclaimed in surprise.
Before Tian Feng arrived, she had fully prepared for her gradual promotion based on her military achievements.
Considering her age, plus the fact that her opportunity to depart for this campaign stemmed from the college exam of the Leping Academy, she would have been satisfied to get a regular colonel or assistant position out of the Liaodong campaign. Who knew she’d get the title of Protector of Wuhuan!
“The Grand Marshal saw your letter sent to the court, in which you strongly recommended Yan Rou to take the post of Protector of Wuhuan, but ultimately the discussion concluded—”
“That the Wuhuan are scattered throughout and under various independent leaders under their Khan, forming complex, treacherous alliances. Despite all the grace shown by His Majesty during his time as the governor of Youzhou, they still sought to gain by teaming up with Gongsun Zan. Thus, the decision to end Gongsun Zan and reclaim Youzhou’s honour is a necessity. Instead, it’s more prudent to intimidate them first.”
“You have killed the former Wuhuan Khan Taduo, and your military prestige over the Wuhuan in Youzhou is also widely recognized. If you act as the Protector of Wuhuan, it would surely deter them. Besides, with your deputy assisting, softening measures can follow.”
After hearing Tian Feng’s explanation, Lü Lingju felt he had a point.
During the Wuhuan campaign, she had led the charge, chopping off Taduo’s head. Those Wuhuan folk who survived and did not meet their demise would undoubtedly spread tales of her prowess from that day, causing fear through the grapevine.
Perhaps her only challenge would be how to rein in Yan Rou, who was quite capable and had the trust of many among the Wuhuan!
This appointment might also consider her contributions against Gongsun Zan.
All in all, it’s clear that the lord never shortchanges those with genuine military achievements.
As for her few companions, their positions weren’t too low either.
Lu Yi’s and Guo Huai’s positions were actually meant to keep Gongsun Du, that turncoat, in check.
But whether it was Lü Lingju’s intuition or not, it seemed she had caught a hint of Lu Yi slipping a piece of paper into his pocket…
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“Maybe there’s a secret order from the lord hidden in that bag.”
But that kid looks so chill, it’s impossible to get any hints from his demeanor.
Sima Yi’s deputy in Zhuo County was really there to help him out on the front lines near Ji Province.
Interestingly, Zhuge Liang’s deputy in Youzhou was basically the number three guy in that region, which was quite the promotion considering his age.
On top of that, a guy named Xun You would take on the number two position, coming from Chang’an to assist in Youzhou.
So, if you put it all together, Zhuge Liang’s kind of like a half-disciple of Xun Yu, and Xun You is Xun Yu’s nephew. They’ve got some familial ties to work with, so teaming up shouldn’t be a hassle.
Of course, as Tian Feng mentioned while announcing the decree, Zhuge Liang mainly had to help Zhang Liao manage internal affairs in Youzhou, rather than coordinating southern campaigns—that was more Xun You’s gig.
This means their duties don’t overlap much.
With this arrangement, things are looking clear for the manpower situation on the western front.
Under Zhang Liao’s command, Qu Yan and Yufuluo were each granted titles as Youzhou District Commanders.
Lü Bu’s position as the Middle General in Pingbei was upgraded to Tiger Tooth General.
“So, are the Tiger Tooth General and the Door Tooth General ranked higher or lower?” Lü Lingju couldn’t help but ask Zhuge Liang quietly.
She was aiming for some bragging rights against her dad, and if this title didn’t hold much weight, she had to argue for more to her father.
That “door tooth” sounds a bit more impressive than “tiger tooth.”
“That’s the General at the Gate, not the Door Tooth General,” Zhuge Liang sighed, rubbing his forehead, “Most extra titles like this are randomly assigned unless it’s a special case meant for someone to learn from the previous holder.”
“The last Tiger Tooth General was one of the twenty-eight generals under Emperor Guangwu, the big guy named Gai Yan. He came from Yuyang County, a rugged warrior standing eight feet tall, could shoot a three-stone bow, helped settle the Qiang Rebellion, was granted a title of nobility, and died peacefully in office. That’s a pretty respectable career for a general.”
“In terms of general titles, that’s a significant position.”
When Lü Lingju heard “eight feet tall, could shoot a three-stone bow,” her eyes lit up. When she heard “died peacefully,” she felt there was no need to compare tiger teeth and door teeth anymore.
This weird title assignment had some weight behind it, and Lü Bu would probably be satisfied once he heard about this decree.
But first… she needed to write a letter to her dad, informing him about the history behind this general title.
Otherwise, given Lü Bu’s poor grasp of history, he’d probably think calling it “Tiger Tooth General” would be better off named “Tiger Head General.”
Meanwhile, in the brief back-and-forth between Lü Lingju and Zhuge Liang, the final appointments were already happening.
This was about appointing Zhang Liao as…
Youzhou’s Governor.
Though titled as the Youzhou Governor, everyone knew with the current situation of multiple prefects being vacant in Youzhou, this position was practically the provincial overseer.
At just twenty-five years old, having Zhang Liao in this position felt almost miraculous, second only to Qiao Yan.
Yet, when he accepted this appointment, no one found it amiss.
Tian Feng, who accompanied Zhang Liao south to Zhuo County, often wondered why a general like Zhang Liao hadn’t shown up in Ji Province.
Having such a young but steady hand at the helm in Youzhou was definitely bad news for Yuan Shao.
The rapid stabilization of Youzhou could not be solely credited to Zhang Liao’s efforts.
But such a figure seemed unlikely to be swayed to the other side.
When Tian Feng conveyed the gratitude from a young man he met on the road to Zhang Liao, he caught a glimpse of a vague but genuine smile on Zhang Liao’s face. Then, Zhang Liao shared a story about the help Qiao Yan gave him after he was rejected while looking for a job at the state office years ago.
“That was back in the second year of the Zhongping era,” Zhang Liao said.
The memory from nine years ago was still vivid for him, and Tian Feng heard a tale that would be almost impossible for outsiders to know.
“I didn’t become her subordinate because the lord was elected as Bingzhou’s governor; it was her assistance that allowed me to safeguard Bingzhou without wastefully waiting out two years.”
“At that time, I was still holding onto hopes of restoring my family’s name that had faded away, and if it weren’t for those two years of tough training, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
He continued, “I spoke a bit too much today; please don’t mind me, but I feel he should be thanking her rather than me for her support.”
Tian Feng replied, “That makes sense; every cause has an effect. Besides, now that you’re defending Youzhou as the Grand Marshal, it’s like you’re repaying her kindness.”
Zhang Liao’s smile became clearer. “Exactly. No more chatting; we’re almost there.”
In front of them lay the junction of Yuyang County and Zhuo County, and the western section of the Juma River was quite close; it was only when they reached the eastern section that they approached the border between Youzhou and Ji Province, so before long, they could see the distant military camp.
“Please, Mr. Yuanhao, join me in visiting the military camp. Let’s get a clear view of the situation here.”
Tian Feng suddenly stopped in his tracks.
At that moment, he was more skeptical of his ears than when he heard that Qiao Yan captured both Youzhou and Yizhou in one go; why on earth was Zhang Liao calling him “Mr. Yuanhao?”
He slowly turned his head toward Zhang Liao, and the young man tossed out, “Mr. Tian Yuanhao, the lord has ordered me to give you a tour of the Youji border.”
Tian Feng felt like he had been struck by lightning.
Tian Yuanhao!
What Zhang Liao just said was crystal clear—those three words!
When did they find out his identity?
Zhang Liao didn’t clarify that.
He acted like a courteous host, casually dropping the name as he took his guest on a tour of the arrangements in his “home,” making Tian Feng feel like he was walking in a dream.
But it wasn’t a dream.
Zhang Liao spoke with polite detachment mixed with a confidence fresh from claiming all of Youzhou. Each word landed precisely in Tian Feng’s ears, detailing everything from troop placements to the types of soldiers in each camp.
If he weren’t so shocked, Tian Feng would’ve wanted to ask Zhang Liao if it was normal for him to spill all this info to an opponent.
Zhang Liao remained as calm as ever.
The order from Qiao Yan was to inform them of their knowledge about Tian Feng’s identity whenever he felt it was appropriate, and he chose that moment right after they arrived at the border.
Whether this was suitable for Tian Feng was indeed a gamble, but it turned out to be the right call!
After Zhang Liao wrapped up the border security tour and had Tian Feng read the decree for Lü Bu and Gan Ning, he prepared some provisions and a fast horse for his return to Ji Province. However, when Tian Feng had the opportunity to leave at any time, he found himself glued to the spot, unable to budge under Zhang Liao’s composed gaze.
Tian Feng argued with himself, convincing himself it was due to fear of falling into some trap rather than being worried about missing a lifelong regret.
But little did he know, as he made that decision to stay temporarily in Zhuo County, Zhang Liao was subtly squeezing his hands hidden in his sleeves, wiping off the cold sweat.
He also didn’t have a clue that his friend Xin Pi was on his way here from Ji Province.
Because of the strategic decision to eliminate the Youzhou garrison commander, Yuan Shao had granted Xin Pi considerable authority and sent his second son, Yuan Xi, along with his troops to assist him.
Within a few days, they would arrive at the standoff zone.
As part of Xin Pi’s plan, knowing oneself and knowing the enemy guarantees no defeats; of course, he would investigate the Zhuo County area.
For that reason, Qian Zhao, who had once infiltrated Lü Bu’s camp, still made the effort to come, though he wasn’t very agile.
Tian Feng figured, based on Qiao Yan and Zhang Liao’s arrangements regarding the defensive line, there should be no large-scale invasion from the Youzhou army for the time being, giving him a little more time to think.
But beneath the surface, tensions were boiling, and in this vast world, some areas were on the verge of exploding.
Sun Ce leisurely honed his spear, the firelight casting an ominous reflection in his eyes.
To the rhythmic sound of grinding, Zhang Zhao asked, “General Bofu’s decision to attack Huang Zu won’t change, will it?”
In fact, that decision had already been made in early spring of the year, but due to an unexpected drought, he had temporarily called off the campaign after Zhou Yu persuaded him. He was worried that the disaster would affect Yang Province, leading to unrest among the Shanyue.
Zhou Yu’s choice was right. Between May and June, led by Zu Lang, the Shanyue had indeed caused disturbances against Sun Ce.
But as autumn approached, that decision could no longer be reversed!
No matter what obstacles remained in the rear, he had to make this move!
“Why would it change?” Sun Ce sneered. “Liu Biao—I’ll leave him be for now, but that Huang Zu old bastard is tied to my father’s death! If I don’t take him down, how can I face my father on his death anniversary?”
Zhang Zhao had just opened his mouth when Sun Ce added, “Don’t try to persuade me, Zhang Gong.”
“Even without avenging my father’s death, I still have more than enough reasons to attack Huang Zu, who’s holed up in Yuzhang County.”
Sun Ce suddenly stood up, his spear reflecting the moonlight and torchlight, shining with a golden light, “Years ago, the Grand Marshal secured me the position of Governor of Kuaiji and a General against the Rebels. Huang Zu took the position of Yuzhang governor under the old dog Dong Zhuo’s orders. That old dog is dead; Huang Zu’s position is now unjust! What’s wrong with me attacking him as the Governor of Yang Province?”
“Yang Province may have avoided the drought’s troubles, but Huang Zu ignores the people’s suffering just to enjoy himself. As long as he’s in power, the people of Yuzhang suffer one more day, killing him would be the right thing to do!”
“If you’re worried the war will exhaust Yang Province’s resources, then think about it—does Huang Zu even consider us launching an attack today?”
Zhang Zhao didn’t answer, but he understood this to be fact.
It was now the autumn harvest season, and with Grand Marshal Qiao Yan’s recent achievements in capturing two provinces, all corners were shaken, no one would expect an offensive right now.
About everyone had their eyes on the newly acquired provinces around Chang’an and the surrounding border areas.
Meanwhile, Zhou Yu had just headed north toward Xuzhou, splitting off some of Sun Ce’s forces while intending to keep a low profile this year.
Huang Zu probably thought his situation was as safe as it could get.
Little did he know, in Kuaiji County today, Sun Ce faced Zhang Zhao, vigilantly lifting his spear and lifting the curtain to step out, and the cavalry was already lined up and ready.
In the night, an oppressive killing intent loomed, as if an invisible sword was pointed straight at Yuzhang County.
Old commanders like Huang Gai and Han Dang looked at Sun Ce with eager eyes, seeing this youth illuminated by the torches held by the cavalry, his armor gleaming and those incredibly bright eyes exuding heroic vigor.
He hopped onto the steed brought before him, and as he tightened the reins, he shouted, “Everyone, follow me out to battle—”
“This fight is to take down Huang Zu!”
