Chapter Six: Discussing the Campaign Against the Rebels with Sun Ce
In the current world, the employment of men depends upon reputation, the recommendation of renowned individuals, or the backing of a powerful family. Zhuge Liang had the endorsement of Xu Shu, Guo Fengxiao was introduced by Xun Yu, and Xun Yu himself bore the illustrious title of one of the “Eight Dragons of the Xun Clan.” For a man of humble origins like Jiang Wen, the most prudent path to officialdom would be to remain obscure for several years more, participating in the monthly discussions about talent. Yet by then, the tides of the world would have already taken form—Jiang Wen could not afford to wait.
Fortunately, he had met Lü Meng, who was also of humble birth. Had he encountered a commander from the aristocracy, the other would hardly deign to speak even a word to him. He would have received no favor at all.
Jiang Wen was but just over seventeen, his face still bearing the innocence and freshness of youth. Though he looked the part of a scholar, he did not seem especially gifted. Sun Ce studied him closely for some time, but he also understood the wisdom of waiting for the right moment—if this man truly possessed great talent, but Sun Ce provoked him with harsh words, it would be his own loss.
Sun Ce spoke calmly, “Though I am no expert at judging men, I know this much: Zi Ming has long been famed for his courage and vigor, entering battlefields at seventeen, yet there are few in the world whom he truly admires, let alone recommends. Since you dare ask Zi Ming to recommend you, I believe you possess strategic talent.”
Jiang Wen bowed and replied with composure, “I dare not accept such praise; I am unworthy. Young General, it is my great good fortune that Brother Zi Ming recognizes my worth. I am but a student who read some books and desired to venture out into the world, never expecting to encounter bandits along the way.”
“That day, when I saw Brother Zi Ming leading his troops, each soldier was spirited and robust as a tiger, yet they treated the common people with virtue and benevolence.”
“In my heart, I thought—this is the kind of army of lions I have long yearned for. And as fate would have it, Lord Lü and I found ourselves of like mind, so I hoped to obtain a post under Lord Sun’s command.”
Sun Ce said, “Since you have the ambition to make something of yourself, and our army seeks men of talent, if you can answer my question to my satisfaction, I will give you a chance. How does that sound?”
Jiang Wen replied, “Please, Young General, ask whatever you wish. I will answer truthfully, and if you are not satisfied, I beg your indulgence.”
“Then tell me this: Do you know why when Cao Cao rallied the lords of the realm to attack the traitor, he promoted Yuan Shao as the alliance leader, instead of taking the position himself?”
Jiang Wen answered, “Young General, Cao Cao is the descendant of a eunuch. In terms of status, he is beneath the other lords of the realm.”
“If Cao Cao were made leader, it would certainly offend and anger the lords, making alliance impossible and sparking further internal strife.”
“Yuan Shao, on the other hand, hails from a prestigious family in Hebei, with four generations of high office, strong troops, and widespread fame. He commands many talented followers. With him as leader, the lords would not be displeased.”
Lü Meng, listening, suddenly understood and nodded repeatedly. The position of alliance leader—such an esteemed role, and yet it was handed away. He, too, had puzzled over this, but Jiang Wen’s explanation made it clear.
“As for the deeper reason behind this…” Jiang Wen began.
“What deeper reason? Speak quickly!” Sun Ce pressed him eagerly.
“As I said, Cao Cao’s ancestry as a eunuch’s descendant makes it impossible for him to be leader. But this gathering is only Cao Cao’s means to show himself. Young General, are you aware of Cao Cao’s attempt to assassinate Dong Zhuo?”
“I am, of course,” Sun Ce replied.
“Good. First, Cao Cao attempted to assassinate Dong Zhuo. Now, he appears at the alliance. He has thus gained a reputation as a loyal minister. Though the Han court holds little real power, it is still the Han Dynasty’s world. The old ministers of Han are still present. So what does Cao Cao gain from these actions?”
“He gains… talented people?”
“Precisely—talent! The world will seek out Cao Cao, believing him to be the loyal minister who will save the people!”
“Well explained. I understand now,” Sun Ce said with some satisfaction. His eyes showed an admiration for talent, though he kept his expression reserved as he asked again, “Today my father and the other lords are in council. Though the Eighteen Route Lords have assembled here, Dong Zhuo’s power is immense. He now has the adopted son Lü Bu, famed for his martial prowess, said to match ten thousand men, with the saying ‘Among men, Lü Bu; among horses, Red Hare.’ The lords tremble at his name alone. In your view, will our campaign against Dong Zhuo end in failure?”
Jiang Wen replied, “The traitor Dong Zhuo, relying on his soldiers, has deposed the emperor, enthroned a puppet, and poisoned the empress dowager. In court, he slaughters loyal ministers; in the harem, he defiles the maids—there is no evil he has not committed. His troops bring disaster to the people, and he has long since lost their support.”
“Those of great talent in the world will surely join the lords and choose a worthy master. Now, with the Eighteen Route Allied Army assembled, our cause is vigorous and our morale high. Though battle has not yet been joined, we will surely win, and Dong Zhuo will certainly be defeated!”
Sun Ce laughed heartily. “The men of great talent you speak of—are you among them?”
“You are indeed as Zi Ming said—truly gifted,” Sun Ce rose and bowed earnestly to Jiang Wen. “You are young, but your insight surpasses that of most men. If my brother Gongjin were here to befriend you, he would surely rejoice!”
“Young General, may I ask who Gongjin is?” Jiang Wen feigned ignorance.
“My sworn brother. He is now but a refined gentleman, but if he chose to serve, he would be your equal. For now, it is enough that I have… my elder brother’s help.” Sun Ce looked a little embarrassed as he bowed. “Would you be willing to come with me to see my father?”
Jiang Wen returned the bow, and turning his head, surreptitiously winked at Lü Meng. Lü Meng was momentarily stunned, and then barely suppressed a laugh.
“If you wish to recommend me, Young General, I am delighted and will gladly accompany you.”
“I love making friends, and as a man of the army, I dislike the pretensions of scholars. From now on, let us be brothers, as you and Zi Ming are.”
“If you, Brother Bofu, would treat me thus… I, Changsu, am naturally delighted!”
“Then, Brother Changsu, please…”
Jiang Wen and Sun Ce left the tent. Tao’er burst in after they had gone. “Lord Lü, is my young master going to become an official?”
“Yes,” Lü Meng replied with satisfaction. “After all this effort, he’s finally going to hold office. But he’d better not outrank me, or where would that leave me?”
“My young master is going to be an official… hehehe… an official at last!”
“Where are you running off to, page?”
“The soldiers outside were catching wild chickens just now. I’m going to catch one for my young master!”
“Those fellows—at a time like this, with battle looming, they have time to catch chickens? They need a good lesson in military discipline!”
In Sun Jian’s main camp, a group of officers was in council. Sun Jian himself was tall and imposing as a tiger, with a distinguished face and piercing eyes. At that moment, he frowned at the map before him.
“Youtai,” Sun Jian called. The gathered generals fell silent as Sun Jing rose. “What is it, elder brother?”
Sun Jian said, “We have been stationed here for fifteen days. In all that time, the lords have done nothing but posture. Is our campaign against Dong Zhuo nothing but a farce?”
“These lords talk grandly, but it’s all empty words. Thankfully, Yuan Shu promised us troops and provisions, or we might as well have returned to Changsha, rather than cower here like turtles!” Cheng Pu exclaimed, his face flushed with anger.
Sun Jing glanced at the map. “Elder brother, I believe our army…”
“General, the Young General Bofu requests an audience, and he brings a scholar with him.”
“What business has Bofu at this moment? Bring them in. It’s a good chance for him to learn the art of council.”