Volume 6, Chapter 36: Emptily Boasting of Former Glory1
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At the beginning of the twelfth year of Tongtai, the Yong army plundered Wuyue. The Duke obeyed the King’s orders to take command in Yuhang, training volunteer armies to guard the coastal defenses. Everyone believed the Duke couldn’t balance this with the warfare in Jianghuai. The Duke secretly ordered his adjutant, Yang Xiu, to attack Sizhou and Chuzhou, and General Shi Guan in Huaixi to march on Suzhou.
The Yong army didn’t expect the Duke to pick a fight first and lost Suzhou and Chuzhou. Huaibei was in grave danger, relying on Great Yong’s Military Commissioner of Huainan, Pei Yun, to desperately repel him.
In the third month of the year, General Rong Yuan of Xiangyang heard of the battles and blamed the Duke for looking down on him but didn’t say anything. He independently led his army to capture Nanyang, falling into Great Yong’s design to lure in the enemy and lost Xiangyang instead. He encountered an ambush at Fenglin Pass and lost several battles in a row, retreating to defend Yicheng. The Duke wished to cast the blame on him, but Prime Minister Shang blocked it. Rong Yuan then attached himself to the powerful Prime Minister, hating the Duke for wishing to use military law to punish him. It was a deep hate.
Yong and Chu warred for over a month, and in Jianghuai, both sides were victors and losers. Wuyue was stuck in a stalemate. After Xiangyang fell, Jingxiang lost its shield, and the war was no longer even. A spy betrayed Jiameng Pass, the court wanting to hold Yu Mian accountable. The Duke stooped to protect him, writing a memorial asking for punishment and apologizing for the main forces losing. Prime Minister Shang comforted him with warm words, not daring to blame Yu Mian. Thus, he suspected the Duke of being partial to his trusted aides, which increased his fear.
In the fourth month, Great Yong’s Prince of Qi took command in Jiangnan. The Duke fought him from Sichuan to Wuyue, flames of war billowing all throughout the lands. The Duke requested an audience with the court and said, “The war is constantly changing, advance or retreat uncertain. All the provinces require military control.”
Prime Minister Shang had no choice but to allow it. He permitted the Duke to promote and demote all fourth-ranked officials and below in Jianghuai and Jingxiang as he saw fit. Though he was angry in private, he said nothing.
In the tenth month, Great Yong requested a peace conference. They wished to take Suizhou and Jingling for the cessation of hostilities. Prime Minister Shang secretly agreed, and when the Duke heard, he reprimanded him in the court, “If Jingling and Suizhou are lost, Jiangling and Jiangxia will be undefendable. Emperor Wu worked hard to capture them. How can they be easily abandoned to savages?”
Peace talks broke off, and Prime Minister Shang was ashamed, causing his fear to grow deeper.
In the thirteenth year of Tongtai, the Duke defeated the Yong armies time after time. Both Jingling and Suizhou were safe. Then the Military Commissioner of Hanzhong, Qin Yong, took the Micang Road to capture Ba Prefecture. The Duke urgently ordered his deputies to guard Kuizhou.
In the eighth month of the year, the Yong military sent an envoy, wishing to exchange captured Chu soldiers and Ba Prefecture for Jiange and Chengdu. The Duke agreed, but still ordered Yu Mian to defend Ba Prefecture.
Because Yu Mian had lost an army and disgraced the nation, Prime Minister Shang wished to execute him. The Duke strenuously argued against this, and Prime Minister Shang stopped trying to do so. At this time, he got the idea to kill the Duke. But as the Duke’s military exploits were brilliant, he dared not act recklessly.
—Southern Chu Dynastic Records, Biography of the Duke of Loyal Courage
On the seventeenth day of the ninth month of the fourteenth year of Southern Chu’s Tongtai era, night shrouded the city of Anlu.2 Soldiers with solemn expressions filled the streets, noiselessly patrolling the city. The citizens and soldiers in the city were all sorrowfully swallowing their cries because the Southern Chu army retreating from Xiangyang arrived in Anlu in the afternoon of this day. Anlu was a large county governed by Jiangxia, and if the Southern Chu armies were to march north to Xiangyang, they would have to pass through this land.
The Lu family had operated here for many years, and the hearts of the people here belonged to the Lu family. For the people of Anlu, Lu Can wasn’t just the Grand General of Southern Chu. Every time Lu Can passed through Anlu, he would stay for a day, drinking and chatting merrily with the elders in the city. But it was a little different this time. After entering the city, Lu Can went straight to his villa to convalesce. After some time, the elders of Anlu finally and unexpectedly learned that Lu Can was bedridden. When the soldiers and citizens of Anlu heard the news, they were all anxious. Nearly every family burned incense and prayed, sobbing to the Heavens, hoping nobody would take away the pillar of Southern Chu.
The Lu family’s villa in Anlu was merely a spacious courtyard house. Although it was austere and vast, it had neither serene scenery nor luxurious furnishings. No servants were around besides a few looking after the house. Lu Can’s personal guard had already tightened security inside and outside this retreat so much so that not even a drop of water could leak through. They absolutely wouldn’t let anyone disturb the peace. In the minds of these soldiers, the royal court envoys who made the general fall seriously ill were the figures they especially couldn’t let pass.
In the bedroom, Lu Can was wearing a wraparound robe, standing at the window with his hands folded behind his back, and gazing at the bright moon in the sky. A tinge of weariness showed on his handsome face, not at all looking like he was gravely ill.
The night deepened, the drums marking the watches of the night beating. From the distant darkness came sounds that broke people’s hearts. At this time, a bodyguard entered and reported, “Grand General, Sir Wei is outside seeking an audience.”
A light glinted in Lu Can’s eyes. “Please invite Sir Wei in.”
The bodyguard hesitated. “General, should we send for additional manpower? Sir Wei’s martial arts…”
“No need,” Lu Can calmly replied.
The bodyguard was afraid to say more and hurriedly withdrew. After a brief moment, he guided in a graceful man.
Lu Can turned around and looked at him. “Sir Wei, I expected you’d be here within these two days.”
Wei Ying looked at Lu Can and was surprised on the inside. Though they hadn’t seen each other in just a few months, Lu Can’s temples had grayed a great deal. His calm and composed demeanor may have not changed much, but his body was clearly more worn out. However, Wei Ying had expected this. With respect on his face, he stepped forward and saluted. “Wei Ying pays his respects to the Grand General. Grand General has worked hard along the way. Does Grand General have any plans for the events about to transpire?”
Lu Can smiled and said, “Is Sir Wei coming to meet me as the Head of the North Star Hall of the Fengyi Sect or as a guest to my headquarters?”
A light flickered in Wei Ying’s eyes, and he replied, “I’ve come as a guest of the Grand General, of course. I wasn’t able to stop all kinds of unfavorable things from happening to the Grand General. Please forgive me, Grand General.”
Lu Can shook his head. “It wasn’t that you couldn’t but that you never thought to stop anything.”
Wei Ying lowered his head. “How can Grand General say that? This one truly never expected General Rong to accuse you of misconduct and was even more surprised rumors sprang up everywhere. And with those married women who don’t know what’s good for them obstructing things from within, the Grand General has been forced to retreat. But with just my strength alone, I truly cannot be mentioned on equal terms with Prime Minister Shang, the Yihuang Hall, or the Fengwu Hall. As such, I was helpless in the face of crisis, resulting in the Grand General finding himself in his present situation.”
“This year, His Royal Majesty is assuming the throne. While the Queen was being selected, you advised me to try to make Mei’er the Queen, and I rejected. Later, the Queen Dowager wanted Mei’er to enter the royal palace as a concubine. Before the news could get out, Feng’er learned of it. The tiny force I left behind in the capital merely made inquiries about the movements of the court. They didn’t infiltrate the palace to learn about this secret. Feng’er was just their nominal leader, but this simply required a Lu family member to take care of. However, Feng’er learned of this information early and tricked his mother, goading Mei’er away. Along the journey, you secretly sent experts to guard them. Based on your nature, if Mei’er entered the palace as a concubine, the animosity between the Lu family and the Royal Family could be reduced and could resist Noble Consort Ji, giving you various benefits. But you secretly aided Feng’er. Why?” Lu Can evenly asked.
Wei Ying raised his head. He said with a calm look, “General treats the important ministers of Southern Chu and Miss Mei with both kindness and tolerance. If the Queen Dowager and the King intended to make the young miss the Queen, that would only be natural. Even if you are the Grand General, you cannot flatly refuse to do so. It’s just that General is reluctant to exchange the young miss’s lifelong happiness for glory, wealth, splendor, and rank. This is the deep love between father and daughter. It’s not altogether inexcusable.
“Afterwards, the Queen Dowager tried to force the young miss to be a concubine. If the Grand General actually agreed, wouldn’t he make himself a laughingstock of the world? That’s why this one didn’t request orders to help the second young master send the young miss to Shouchun. However, General has also underestimated the second young master. Although I had someone leak the news, the second young master learned of this event from a different avenue. This one also didn’t expect the second young master to have such courage, surprisingly tricking the young miss into immediately going north to seek shelter with the eldest young master. As for escorting them along the way, that’s my duty.”
Lu Can raised an eyebrow. “Why would I be jealous of pampering from queens and concubines? Mei’er is gentle. How could I bear to let her go to that sunless place and struggle against them? But if I had wanted to establish Mei’er as the Queen, it wouldn’t have been impossible. But since time immemorial, when daughter has been queen and father has been a powerful minister, few have died natural deaths. As such, I was unwilling to marry into the Royal Family.
“Even for Yun’er, I don’t wish for him to take over as head of the Shang family. Although Grand Princess Shuning isn’t bad, I would rather have Yujin, who can fight alongside Yun’er in battle, as a daughter-in-law. And besides, that’s what Yun’er wants too. My Lu family has never been one to flatter culprits. Although you were rather selfish in this matter, I still must thank you. If the Queen Dowager’s intention of making Mei’er a concubine were made public and this proposal were rejected, open conflict would’ve been inevitable. I wouldn’t have wished for that.
“However, in regard to Rong Yuan, you went beyond my expectations. If you had acted your old way, even if I wouldn’t have approved, Rong Yuan’s second accusation absolutely wouldn’t have reached the throne.”
Wei Ying’s face sank. “If this is how the Grand General sees this one, this one has nothing to say. Correct, I could certainly have tried to assassinate Rong Yuan or stolen the accusation document away on the road, but it would’ve been in opposition to the Fengwu Hall. This time, Head of the Fengwu Hall, Yan Wushuang, personally set out to protect Rong Yuan. And the second memorial was personally sent to Jianye by Xie Xiaotong of the Yihuang Hall. How could I possibly act? Did Grand General think it a matter of course for me to oppose them?”
Lu Can gave a brief smile and replied, “If not for knowing Sir Wei had broken off ties with them two years ago, I wouldn’t have believed that general and Sir would do so, nor would we have fallen to our current position with such ease. Unless Sir is saying I, Lu Can, too readily trusted you?”
Wei Ying was shocked to the core. He had never expected that Lu Can would actually find out about the falling out he’d had with Ji Xia and Yan Wushuang before Ling Yu two years ago. He was perturbed. Lu Can’s succinct mention was like thunder crashing through the heavens to him. Ever since he’d departed from Great Yong, he’d scorned himself deep in his heart, even getting frequent thoughts of abandoning himself to despair. If not for his enemy still living on earth, he very likely couldn’t have continued lingering on his last legs.
However, Lu Can treated him like a normal person, like he hadn’t betrayed his country and plotted treason, like he hadn’t implicated his relatives. Over the past several years, he’d trusted him ever more and placed him in important positions. Unwittingly, Lu Can had become more important than all else in Wei Ying’s heart. Flustered, he said, “Grand General, please listen to my explanation. In truth, in truth…” He felt like he couldn’t say anything. He couldn’t voice the excuse he’d come up with.
Lu Can didn’t look at him. He turned around and looked out the window, coolly stating, “When I retreated to defend Xiangyang, rumors flew all around Jiangnan. For the past few years, your North Star Hall has gained me, its power and influence greatly growing. Do you not have a single trick? It’s inappropriate for Yang Xiu to make a public appearance, so why aren’t you taking any action?”
“Grand General, too, should know that Great Yong has always had many secret agents within our Southern Chu territory. Moreover, there’s many weak-willed people in Jiangnan who fear the Yong armies. If not for this, Grand General wouldn’t repeatedly refuse to inform Jianye before sending troops. If not for taking caution to prevent harm to innocents, I fear Grand General would have caused a bloodbath in Jianye. And the head of the Intelligence Management Section must have changed. Their methods have become more secretive and ruthless than before. The meaning of the short song is beautiful. The common folk are just praising General and not trying to offend at all. Even if I put all my strength into hunting them down, I’m afraid it’d be difficult to capture all of Great Yong’s secret agents in one fell swoop,” said Wei Ying with reluctance. “Besides, Grand General hasn’t been suspected by the court for just a day. Even if the rumors are quashed, the present situation cannot be avoided. Instead of doing pointless things, it’d be better to plan for the future.”
Lu Can gently sighed at the words. “Is Sir Wei trying to persuade Lu Can to rise up in revolt?”
After Lu Can sent troops to Xiangyang, the multitude of affairs roused by Rong Yuan’s accusation made things somewhat difficult for Wei Ying, but if he had put in real effort, he at least wouldn’t have ended up in this current situation. However, he was selfish too, so he endured and refused to act rashly. Lu Can had found him out today. Embarrassment showing on his face, he knew he could no longer lie and prevaricate. He stepped up and prostrated, saying, “Grand General, please forgive me. It’s not that I haven’t corrected my old hatred; rather, I’ve wandered around Jiangnan for twelve years now. When I think back on past events, not a single ounce of my rancor can vanish. But I’m aware of the world of difference between my enemy and me. He’s a son-in-law to the emperor of Great Yong and has become a marquis of the imperial rank. In addition, Li Zhi trusts him deeply. He also has the Demonic Shadow by his side protecting him. Whether in civil or military affairs, I can’t do anything about him. My only method of retaliation is to fight fairly on the battlefield. If I can lead the military into the Yong capital and utterly destroy his quiet, settled life, only then will I have wreaked vengeance and redressed my hatred.
“However, Great Yong is the sun shining at high noon. Northern Han has fallen; Li Kang suffered a crushing defeat and died of illness in the Yong capital. Southern Chu, meanwhile, has the present circumstances: The foolish ruler and powerful Prime Minister seek only ease and comfort. The majority of the rungs of the Fengyi Sect have forgotten the old grudge, wanting only to breathe their last breath in Jiangnan. They dare not even bring up the word ‘revenge.’ I had been discouraged, but Grand General has given me hope.
“At the beginning, I hoped only to stop the southern march of the Yong armies. As long as Great Yong didn’t unify all the lands, it would cause eternal regret to the ruler and ministers of Great Yong. Later, I learned General had the ambition of taking the Central Plains and decided to serve Grand General with all my heart. I desire not glory, wealth, or rank; I simply want to see Grand General riding through the Central Plains one day. Then, my hatred will be avenged. Even though Grand General has taken me under his wing and mentored me, indirectly protecting me from that man, I feel no resentment.
“However, even though Grand General’s tactics are unrivaled, he has not the heart to engage in political struggles. With the authority General wields, removing Shang Weijun and controlling the full power of the court would be a piece of cake for General. Yet Grand General is willing to endure the oppression of that powerful Prime Minister. I know the history of past dynasties as well. Since time immemorial, if powerful ministers existed in the court, and a great general had rendered great service in the field, if he wished to conquer the Central Plains, he needed to purge the court around the monarch before staging an armed rebellion and to clean up the laws of the court. To repel foreign aggression, peace at home must be first achieved.
“However, I’m also aware of the Grand General’s loyalty, never thinking of gaining a powerful position. So this time, I didn’t secretly stop the deterioration of the situation. I just hope that after the Grand General has been forced to raise troops, he will rid the court of treacherous officials and stay until the court calms down. Once Grand General has unified the military and marched north, no further obstacles will exist. He will then be able to achieve great things that will last through all ages.
“If the Grand General is worried about preachy scholars lashing out at him, I can guarantee those people won’t have a way to cause trouble. The current court is overrun with crafty and fawning ministers. The virtuous ones have retired, and General has fought bravely for many years, protecting the peace of the state and the people. The will of the military and will of the people aligned with each other long ago. Now that the bad monarch and treacherous ministers maliciously hurt General, this is a good opportunity to rise up in rebellion. As long as the Grand General doesn’t abolish the position of king for the time being, those virtuous scholars will acclaim Grand General for the deed of eradicating traitorous ministers.
“If the Grand General can’t make a prompt decision, I fear that not only will the great undertaking be difficult to accomplish, General will encounter tragedy. No egg will be left intact when the nest is upset. If that happens, not only will the General’s family be implicated, his troops and officers under his command will be unable to escape by the skin of their teeth. Famous generals will be demoted or dismissed, outstanding ministers will die. Great Yong’s heavy cavalry will certainly take advantage to charge south. The State of Southern Chu will be toppled. Even though General will be dead in the underworld, he likely won’t be content, yes?”
Lu Can was silent for a long time. “As a child, I read history with Sir Jiang. Since ancient times, most famous generals did not come to good ends. Those who died on the battlefield were blessed by the Heavens. The majority died to the court. At the time, my master said to me that my Lu family had been generals for generations and should learn from Sun Wu3 and retire after accomplishing great things. I should not emulate Han Xin, resting on my laurels and becoming arrogant,4 much less emulate Li Mu and die alone and loyal.5 So I said to my master, ‘If the world is at peace, there is no harm in learning from the sagacity and caution of Sun Wu. If war is unending, I will not simply retire. Even if I become like Han Xin and Li Mu, I won’t regret it.’
“Can’s grandfather was promoted through the ranks by Emperor Wu. He grew up in the wilderness yet became a general. During his life, the Emperor favored him; after he died, he was buried in the tomb of a king. Such extensive grace is rarely seen in the world. Father should have served loyally, but the former kings were vacuous, and crafty and fawning ministers vied for power. When the wise king perished, good ministers were dismissed. Father worried for his personal safety and sealed his lips to the point that he watched the capital fall into enemy hands and the King and ministers get captured. When Father led the troops loyal to the throne into Jianye, he saw the capital that had been sheltered by flowers and shaded by willows days ago had been flattened and smashed.
“When Father visited Emperor Wu’s tomb, he begged forgiveness, tears gushing like blood. This regret and humiliation Father never forgot to the day he died. He was even more ashamed he didn’t risk offense and frankly admonish the King to protect the state. As he neared death, he even more tirelessly instructed me to not care about family and my own life, nor care about reputation and power. So for all these years, I didn’t pay heed to powerful ministers’ mockery, instead acting independently, frequently disobeying Prime Minister Shang. This time, I’ve offended the King, all for the sake of the security of the state. But if I use the failings of the court in the name of purging bad ministers to stage an armed rebellion, it would shame my buried father and grandfather, destroying the reputation of the Lu family’s loyalty.”
Wei Ying stood up in response and angrily said, “Grand General, how can you betray the will of the troops for the sake of your reputation of loyalty? If the Yong armies cross the Yangtze River and snuff out Southern Chu, Grand General, even if you still have the reputation of loyalty, what use will it be? Does General not consider the security of Jiangnan’s millions of commoners? Can you bear to see the ravages of war destroy the lands of Chu?”
Lu Can smiled. “Even if I rebel, can I truly rescue the state and the people? If so, you underestimate the Yong emperor and my master too much. When my master employs a strategy, he always considers everything. If I rise up in rebellion, the beautiful land of Jiangnan will immediately descend into civil war. Although the forces in Shang Weijun’s control are nothing compared to mine, it just needs Rong Yuan and me to battle in Jiangxia for ten days for the Yong armies to take advantage and march south. Even if Jiangxia is fine, Jiangling cannot be protected.
“The Ninghai Navy is still in Prime Minister Shang’s hands, and Ninghai’s commander, Zhao Qun, is part of the Royal Family. He will definitely raise troops in service to the throne. When that happens, the Eastern Sea Navy will take advantage by launching an offensive. Junshan in Ninghai also won’t be able to be protected. You should be well aware of the few possible results after all that.
“Even if Ninghai and Jiangling are fine, once the civil war spreads, Prime Minister Shang’s aristocratic family will be sure to raise troops in opposition. By that point, it will be impossible to sort out the war. What strength will be left to prevent the Yong military’s southbound march? If I rebel, I’ll be the criminal who toppled the state. I’m no man of blind loyalty. Merely, a man of character has things he can and cannot do. Planning rebellion for the sake of family and my own life is categorically intolerable.
“Wei Ying, do you still not understand? Sir Jiang used your wish for vengeance. If not for this, the stratagem of driving a wedge between us wouldn’t have worked.”
Wei Ying could only feel his mind reeling. His body was tottering, on the verge of collapse. He staggered backwards a few steps. He had had some expectations for the potential situation Lu Can would face upon rebelling. What traumatized him were Lu Can’s words. His own actions had actually been predicted by Jiang Zhe. If another told him this, he would just give a snort of contempt. But Lu Can was different. Wei Ying had been friends with Lu Can for many years. He was deeply knowledgeable about Lu Can’s skill and wisdom, and Lu Can had once been a student of Jiang Zhe. Naturally, he quite understood Jiang Zhe. If he said so, it was practically the truth. The humiliation and panic at being used by his enemy made him almost unable to control himself.
Then he heard Lu Can speak in an indifferent voice, “Although I have no wish to be a powerful minister, the reality is that I am one. Usually, I overlook the court’s suspicions, and the animosity between General Rong and me has a long history. As such, I fell into Sir Jiang’s trap. The current conclusion is my fault. With Sir’s character, there’s sure to be follow-up tricks. I assume I won’t have long left to live.
“Although Sir Wei is a little selfish, he has never turned his back on me. This time, I can no longer return to Jianghuai. Prime Minister Shang has definitely cut off news on the road already, so there’s some things I must request Sir Wei’s assistance with.”
With great difficulty, Wei Ying replied, “Great Yong’s heavy cavalry still hungrily eyes us. If all levels of society write a remonstration, and the Grand General expresses his goodwill to Prime Minister Shang. it may not be hopeless. Prime Minister Shang is not a foolish man. There’s always the possibility of redemption.” But he didn’t even believe himself. If not for the fact he believed Lu Can would never rebel, how could he come to see Lu Can alone? And he’d experienced Jiang Zhe’s methods firsthand. If Jiang Zhe’s stratagems had such obvious holes, he wouldn’t believe it.
Lu Can smiled and shook his head. “Let’s not talk about survival for the moment. Since Prime Minister Shang is prepared to act this time, he’s bound to act against more than just me. My many former subordinates will be fine, as Prime Minister Shang certainly won’t eliminate them all in one fell swoop. If he doesn’t leave some officers, how can he possibly fight against the Yong armies? However, Yang Xiu in Huaidong, Yu Mian in Sichuan, and Shi Guan in Huaixi will find it difficult to escape the crossfire.
“Of these three men, Yang Xiu may be my confidant, but he was part of the former Shu. He has no foundation in Jiangnan. I’ll write him a letter. Tell him on my behalf and guilt him into offering his services to Prime Minister Shang. If he helps, Prime Minister Shang can control the Huaidong army. Prime Minister Shang will accept him.
“Yu Mian is my former subordinate. He’s suffered repeated defeats in recent years, but I don’t blame him. I pulled all the elite troops from Sichuan. His resistance against the two hundred thousand-strong Yong army with just tens of thousands of troops was extremely difficult. But if Prime Minister Shang takes over command, he absolutely cannot let him leave. I know Yu Mian’s temper. He’s long been bitterly disappointed by Prime Minister Shang, and he isn’t from an aristocratic family. He’s only loyal to me. If I die, I fear he’ll surrender to the Yong military. If he truly has rebellion on the mind, he will first disobey royal decrees. If there’s any indication, dispatch someone with my sword I always carry and present it to Yu Mian. He’ll know what to do.
“Of Shi Guan, it’s a bit difficult. His daughter, Yujin, and Yun’er tied the knot not a year ago. And Yujin is already pregnant. She’s ready to die holding fast to her morals, so I’m afraid she’ll refuse to divorce amicably. However, Shi Guan should understand what’s at stake. I can only leave things as they are. As long as you tell Yun’er my intentions, it’ll suffice.”
Wei Ying’s heart broke. Even during the last-minute failure at Dawn’s Frost Palace Hall, he didn’t feel such sorrowful regret. Prostrating, he said, “Grand General, if rebelling still gives a chance for living, does Grand General not consider his wife and sons and daughter? Young master Yun may be young, but he’s brave and resourceful in battle, and as newlyweds, young master’s wife is already pregnant. She’ll be giving birth in five months. Does Grand General not want his grandson and his grandson’s father to meet face to face? And although Young master Feng is young, he’s smart and clever. Lady Mei and the youngest young master haven’t come of age yet. How can Grand General bear to have tragedy befall them?”
The glint of tears appeared in Lu Can’s eyes, and he turned his head away, sadly saying, “To win over my former subordinates, Prime Minister Shang won’t lawfully execute me, much less move against my wife and children. Yun’er has served in the army for many years and is rather famous for his military prowess. Prime Minister Shang likely won’t let him go. But Feng’er, Mei’er, and Ting’er are still children. If my expectations are correct, Prime Minister Shang will migrate my family members to the southern border, but they will presumably be harmed during the trip.
“Brother Wei, you’ve aided me for many years, but you still belong to the Fengyi Sect. If the North Star Hall is destroyed, the Fengyi Sect will lose a great deal of power, so as long as brother Wei doesn’t openly oppose them, Prime Minister Shang will tolerate you. After I die, if you can care for our old friendship, please try to lend a hand. I won’t have to entrust my former subordinates to your care either. Find an abandoned village and settle them there.”
Wei Ying’s face turned ashy and pallid, knowing Lu Can had made up his mind and definitely wouldn’t be rising up in revolt. Lu Can had already arranged for all appropriate measures to take place after his death, just for the sake of preventing turmoil in the military and not allowing Great Yong to take advantage and invade the south. He thought about how, if he hadn’t selfishly caused trouble, Lu Can would have had a small chance to counter. Even at this point, Lu Can still entrusted him with future matters, paying no mind to his infamy and mistakes. A standpoint slowly took hold within him. He clenched his teeth, drops of blood seeping out. He rose, then prostrated again. “Don’t worry, General. Even if I give up my life, I will do everything in my power to protect the General’s family.”
“I trust brother Wei will live up to expectations,” said Lu Can, relieved. “You and I have been friends for many years. When we part ways today, we likely will never meet again at a later date. I shouldn’t be urging you to leave, but the royal envoys are already on the road. It would be improper for others to see that brother Wei is still here. I have no choice but to ask brother Wei to depart this very night.”
Wei Ying lightly nodded. Taking the sword and letter Lu Can was passing over to him with both hands, multiple sharp stabs of pain ran through his heart. Enduring sorrow, he turned and walked out. Right as he walked out of the room, he heard a hubbub outside, vaguely hearing the words “royal envoy” and “royal decree.” He knew in his heart that Jianye’s royal decree had arrived. The bodyguard who’d escorted Wei Ying in had already been prepared and guided him through a side entrance out of the villa.
Stepping out of the courtyard house, Wei Ying couldn’t help circling back to the front to spy on things. He saw the royal envoys blocked at the door by soldiers furiously cursing at the soldiers guarding the door. He also saw several people behind the royal envoys wearing the colors of a eunuch. The faces were very familiar. Although their faces were slightly adorned and the robes were modified such that it wasn’t possible to see they were women in disguise, they couldn’t hide from his eyes. Hatred rose within him. Formerly magnificent and famous disciples had fallen so far. Seeking only ease and comfort in Southern Chu was all well and good, and they even knew to remove dissidents, but because Lu Can didn’t accept their goodwill, they didn’t hesitate to chop down the pillar of state. Such shortsightedness made him loathe the women.
While Wei Ying was gnashing his teeth in anger, Lu Can’s bodyguard walked out of the home, gave a military command, and let the envoys enter. Wei Ying’s blood froze. He knew events could no longer be reversed.
Two middle-aged, muscular men silently walked out of the shadows at this time. They both bowed respectfully. One of them rapidly said, “Chief, what should we do next?”
Wei Ying raised his head. Resolve in his eyes, he answered, “The grace of my close friend cannot be forgotten. We’ll first go to Huaixi to meet Young General Lu. Li Ming will come with me; Cui Xiang will mobilize all members of the North Star Hall. Listen to my orders: If I can persuade the Young General to revolt, the Grand General will have one lifeline. If I cannot, I will go to Huaidong to meet Yang Xiu. No matter what, we must not resign ourselves to fate.”
Footnotes:
长城空自许, Changcheng kong zixu – “I brag I am the Great Wall, fleeting as it was.” This is most of a line from a poem entitled “On Discontent” (书愤) by Southern Song Dynasty poet Lu You (陆游). 安陆, Anlu – a county in east-central Hubei; historically a commandery and prefecture that governed a much larger area 孙武, Sun Wu is believed to be the 孙子(Sun Tzu) who wrote the Art of War. Han Xin (韩信) was one of the foremost generals of the early Han, helping Liu Bang found the Han Dynasty. He received many titles and was also the origin of several Chinese idioms. Afterwards, he was demoted due to fears about his growing influence, and eventually accused of rebellion and was executed by Emperor Gaozu. Li Mu (李牧) was a brilliant general of the State of Zhao who held out with reduced territory against the State of Qin. Qin spies infiltrated the Zhao court and bribed courtiers to allege that he was planning a rebellion. Forced out of his position, he died shortly thereafter and the State of Zhao fell not long after.
Volume 6, Chapter 36: Emptily Boasting of Former Glory1
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At the beginning of the twelfth year of Tongtai, the Yong army plundered Wuyue. The Duke obeyed the King’s orders to take command in Yuhang, training volunteer armies to guard the coastal defenses. Everyone believed the Duke couldn’t balance this with the warfare in Jianghuai. The Duke secretly ordered his adjutant, Yang Xiu, to attack Sizhou and Chuzhou, and General Shi Guan in Huaixi to march on Suzhou.
The Yong army didn’t expect the Duke to pick a fight first and lost Suzhou and Chuzhou. Huaibei was in grave danger, relying on Great Yong’s Military Commissioner of Huainan, Pei Yun, to desperately repel him.
In the third month of the year, General Rong Yuan of Xiangyang heard of the battles and blamed the Duke for looking down on him but didn’t say anything. He independently led his army to capture Nanyang, falling into Great Yong’s design to lure in the enemy and lost Xiangyang instead. He encountered an ambush at Fenglin Pass and lost several battles in a row, retreating to defend Yicheng. The Duke wished to cast the blame on him, but Prime Minister Shang blocked it. Rong Yuan then attached himself to the powerful Prime Minister, hating the Duke for wishing to use military law to punish him. It was a deep hate.
Yong and Chu warred for over a month, and in Jianghuai, both sides were victors and losers. Wuyue was stuck in a stalemate. After Xiangyang fell, Jingxiang lost its shield, and the war was no longer even. A spy betrayed Jiameng Pass, the court wanting to hold Yu Mian accountable. The Duke stooped to protect him, writing a memorial asking for punishment and apologizing for the main forces losing. Prime Minister Shang comforted him with warm words, not daring to blame Yu Mian. Thus, he suspected the Duke of being partial to his trusted aides, which increased his fear.
In the fourth month, Great Yong’s Prince of Qi took command in Jiangnan. The Duke fought him from Sichuan to Wuyue, flames of war billowing all throughout the lands. The Duke requested an audience with the court and said, “The war is constantly changing, advance or retreat uncertain. All the provinces require military control.”
Prime Minister Shang had no choice but to allow it. He permitted the Duke to promote and demote all fourth-ranked officials and below in Jianghuai and Jingxiang as he saw fit. Though he was angry in private, he said nothing.
In the tenth month, Great Yong requested a peace conference. They wished to take Suizhou and Jingling for the cessation of hostilities. Prime Minister Shang secretly agreed, and when the Duke heard, he reprimanded him in the court, “If Jingling and Suizhou are lost, Jiangling and Jiangxia will be undefendable. Emperor Wu worked hard to capture them. How can they be easily abandoned to savages?”
Peace talks broke off, and Prime Minister Shang was ashamed, causing his fear to grow deeper.
In the thirteenth year of Tongtai, the Duke defeated the Yong armies time after time. Both Jingling and Suizhou were safe. Then the Military Commissioner of Hanzhong, Qin Yong, took the Micang Road to capture Ba Prefecture. The Duke urgently ordered his deputies to guard Kuizhou.
In the eighth month of the year, the Yong military sent an envoy, wishing to exchange captured Chu soldiers and Ba Prefecture for Jiange and Chengdu. The Duke agreed, but still ordered Yu Mian to defend Ba Prefecture.
Because Yu Mian had lost an army and disgraced the nation, Prime Minister Shang wished to execute him. The Duke strenuously argued against this, and Prime Minister Shang stopped trying to do so. At this time, he got the idea to kill the Duke. But as the Duke’s military exploits were brilliant, he dared not act recklessly.
—Southern Chu Dynastic Records, Biography of the Duke of Loyal Courage
On the seventeenth day of the ninth month of the fourteenth year of Southern Chu’s Tongtai era, night shrouded the city of Anlu.2 Soldiers with solemn expressions filled the streets, noiselessly patrolling the city. The citizens and soldiers in the city were all sorrowfully swallowing their cries because the Southern Chu army retreating from Xiangyang arrived in Anlu in the afternoon of this day. Anlu was a large county governed by Jiangxia, and if the Southern Chu armies were to march north to Xiangyang, they would have to pass through this land.
The Lu family had operated here for many years, and the hearts of the people here belonged to the Lu family. For the people of Anlu, Lu Can wasn’t just the Grand General of Southern Chu. Every time Lu Can passed through Anlu, he would stay for a day, drinking and chatting merrily with the elders in the city. But it was a little different this time. After entering the city, Lu Can went straight to his villa to convalesce. After some time, the elders of Anlu finally and unexpectedly learned that Lu Can was bedridden. When the soldiers and citizens of Anlu heard the news, they were all anxious. Nearly every family burned incense and prayed, sobbing to the Heavens, hoping nobody would take away the pillar of Southern Chu.
The Lu family’s villa in Anlu was merely a spacious courtyard house. Although it was austere and vast, it had neither serene scenery nor luxurious furnishings. No servants were around besides a few looking after the house. Lu Can’s personal guard had already tightened security inside and outside this retreat so much so that not even a drop of water could leak through. They absolutely wouldn’t let anyone disturb the peace. In the minds of these soldiers, the royal court envoys who made the general fall seriously ill were the figures they especially couldn’t let pass.
In the bedroom, Lu Can was wearing a wraparound robe, standing at the window with his hands folded behind his back, and gazing at the bright moon in the sky. A tinge of weariness showed on his handsome face, not at all looking like he was gravely ill.
The night deepened, the drums marking the watches of the night beating. From the distant darkness came sounds that broke people’s hearts. At this time, a bodyguard entered and reported, “Grand General, Sir Wei is outside seeking an audience.”
A light glinted in Lu Can’s eyes. “Please invite Sir Wei in.”
The bodyguard hesitated. “General, should we send for additional manpower? Sir Wei’s martial arts…”
“No need,” Lu Can calmly replied.
The bodyguard was afraid to say more and hurriedly withdrew. After a brief moment, he guided in a graceful man.
Lu Can turned around and looked at him. “Sir Wei, I expected you’d be here within these two days.”
Wei Ying looked at Lu Can and was surprised on the inside. Though they hadn’t seen each other in just a few months, Lu Can’s temples had grayed a great deal. His calm and composed demeanor may have not changed much, but his body was clearly more worn out. However, Wei Ying had expected this. With respect on his face, he stepped forward and saluted. “Wei Ying pays his respects to the Grand General. Grand General has worked hard along the way. Does Grand General have any plans for the events about to transpire?”
Lu Can smiled and said, “Is Sir Wei coming to meet me as the Head of the North Star Hall of the Fengyi Sect or as a guest to my headquarters?”
A light flickered in Wei Ying’s eyes, and he replied, “I’ve come as a guest of the Grand General, of course. I wasn’t able to stop all kinds of unfavorable things from happening to the Grand General. Please forgive me, Grand General.”
Lu Can shook his head. “It wasn’t that you couldn’t but that you never thought to stop anything.”
Wei Ying lowered his head. “How can Grand General say that? This one truly never expected General Rong to accuse you of misconduct and was even more surprised rumors sprang up everywhere. And with those married women who don’t know what’s good for them obstructing things from within, the Grand General has been forced to retreat. But with just my strength alone, I truly cannot be mentioned on equal terms with Prime Minister Shang, the Yihuang Hall, or the Fengwu Hall. As such, I was helpless in the face of crisis, resulting in the Grand General finding himself in his present situation.”
“This year, His Royal Majesty is assuming the throne. While the Queen was being selected, you advised me to try to make Mei’er the Queen, and I rejected. Later, the Queen Dowager wanted Mei’er to enter the royal palace as a concubine. Before the news could get out, Feng’er learned of it. The tiny force I left behind in the capital merely made inquiries about the movements of the court. They didn’t infiltrate the palace to learn about this secret. Feng’er was just their nominal leader, but this simply required a Lu family member to take care of. However, Feng’er learned of this information early and tricked his mother, goading Mei’er away. Along the journey, you secretly sent experts to guard them. Based on your nature, if Mei’er entered the palace as a concubine, the animosity between the Lu family and the Royal Family could be reduced and could resist Noble Consort Ji, giving you various benefits. But you secretly aided Feng’er. Why?” Lu Can evenly asked.
Wei Ying raised his head. He said with a calm look, “General treats the important ministers of Southern Chu and Miss Mei with both kindness and tolerance. If the Queen Dowager and the King intended to make the young miss the Queen, that would only be natural. Even if you are the Grand General, you cannot flatly refuse to do so. It’s just that General is reluctant to exchange the young miss’s lifelong happiness for glory, wealth, splendor, and rank. This is the deep love between father and daughter. It’s not altogether inexcusable.
“Afterwards, the Queen Dowager tried to force the young miss to be a concubine. If the Grand General actually agreed, wouldn’t he make himself a laughingstock of the world? That’s why this one didn’t request orders to help the second young master send the young miss to Shouchun. However, General has also underestimated the second young master. Although I had someone leak the news, the second young master learned of this event from a different avenue. This one also didn’t expect the second young master to have such courage, surprisingly tricking the young miss into immediately going north to seek shelter with the eldest young master. As for escorting them along the way, that’s my duty.”
Lu Can raised an eyebrow. “Why would I be jealous of pampering from queens and concubines? Mei’er is gentle. How could I bear to let her go to that sunless place and struggle against them? But if I had wanted to establish Mei’er as the Queen, it wouldn’t have been impossible. But since time immemorial, when daughter has been queen and father has been a powerful minister, few have died natural deaths. As such, I was unwilling to marry into the Royal Family.
“Even for Yun’er, I don’t wish for him to take over as head of the Shang family. Although Grand Princess Shuning isn’t bad, I would rather have Yujin, who can fight alongside Yun’er in battle, as a daughter-in-law. And besides, that’s what Yun’er wants too. My Lu family has never been one to flatter culprits. Although you were rather selfish in this matter, I still must thank you. If the Queen Dowager’s intention of making Mei’er a concubine were made public and this proposal were rejected, open conflict would’ve been inevitable. I wouldn’t have wished for that.
“However, in regard to Rong Yuan, you went beyond my expectations. If you had acted your old way, even if I wouldn’t have approved, Rong Yuan’s second accusation absolutely wouldn’t have reached the throne.”
Wei Ying’s face sank. “If this is how the Grand General sees this one, this one has nothing to say. Correct, I could certainly have tried to assassinate Rong Yuan or stolen the accusation document away on the road, but it would’ve been in opposition to the Fengwu Hall. This time, Head of the Fengwu Hall, Yan Wushuang, personally set out to protect Rong Yuan. And the second memorial was personally sent to Jianye by Xie Xiaotong of the Yihuang Hall. How could I possibly act? Did Grand General think it a matter of course for me to oppose them?”
Lu Can gave a brief smile and replied, “If not for knowing Sir Wei had broken off ties with them two years ago, I wouldn’t have believed that general and Sir would do so, nor would we have fallen to our current position with such ease. Unless Sir is saying I, Lu Can, too readily trusted you?”
Wei Ying was shocked to the core. He had never expected that Lu Can would actually find out about the falling out he’d had with Ji Xia and Yan Wushuang before Ling Yu two years ago. He was perturbed. Lu Can’s succinct mention was like thunder crashing through the heavens to him. Ever since he’d departed from Great Yong, he’d scorned himself deep in his heart, even getting frequent thoughts of abandoning himself to despair. If not for his enemy still living on earth, he very likely couldn’t have continued lingering on his last legs.
However, Lu Can treated him like a normal person, like he hadn’t betrayed his country and plotted treason, like he hadn’t implicated his relatives. Over the past several years, he’d trusted him ever more and placed him in important positions. Unwittingly, Lu Can had become more important than all else in Wei Ying’s heart. Flustered, he said, “Grand General, please listen to my explanation. In truth, in truth…” He felt like he couldn’t say anything. He couldn’t voice the excuse he’d come up with.
Lu Can didn’t look at him. He turned around and looked out the window, coolly stating, “When I retreated to defend Xiangyang, rumors flew all around Jiangnan. For the past few years, your North Star Hall has gained me, its power and influence greatly growing. Do you not have a single trick? It’s inappropriate for Yang Xiu to make a public appearance, so why aren’t you taking any action?”
“Grand General, too, should know that Great Yong has always had many secret agents within our Southern Chu territory. Moreover, there’s many weak-willed people in Jiangnan who fear the Yong armies. If not for this, Grand General wouldn’t repeatedly refuse to inform Jianye before sending troops. If not for taking caution to prevent harm to innocents, I fear Grand General would have caused a bloodbath in Jianye. And the head of the Intelligence Management Section must have changed. Their methods have become more secretive and ruthless than before. The meaning of the short song is beautiful. The common folk are just praising General and not trying to offend at all. Even if I put all my strength into hunting them down, I’m afraid it’d be difficult to capture all of Great Yong’s secret agents in one fell swoop,” said Wei Ying with reluctance. “Besides, Grand General hasn’t been suspected by the court for just a day. Even if the rumors are quashed, the present situation cannot be avoided. Instead of doing pointless things, it’d be better to plan for the future.”
Lu Can gently sighed at the words. “Is Sir Wei trying to persuade Lu Can to rise up in revolt?”
After Lu Can sent troops to Xiangyang, the multitude of affairs roused by Rong Yuan’s accusation made things somewhat difficult for Wei Ying, but if he had put in real effort, he at least wouldn’t have ended up in this current situation. However, he was selfish too, so he endured and refused to act rashly. Lu Can had found him out today. Embarrassment showing on his face, he knew he could no longer lie and prevaricate. He stepped up and prostrated, saying, “Grand General, please forgive me. It’s not that I haven’t corrected my old hatred; rather, I’ve wandered around Jiangnan for twelve years now. When I think back on past events, not a single ounce of my rancor can vanish. But I’m aware of the world of difference between my enemy and me. He’s a son-in-law to the emperor of Great Yong and has become a marquis of the imperial rank. In addition, Li Zhi trusts him deeply. He also has the Demonic Shadow by his side protecting him. Whether in civil or military affairs, I can’t do anything about him. My only method of retaliation is to fight fairly on the battlefield. If I can lead the military into the Yong capital and utterly destroy his quiet, settled life, only then will I have wreaked vengeance and redressed my hatred.
“However, Great Yong is the sun shining at high noon. Northern Han has fallen; Li Kang suffered a crushing defeat and died of illness in the Yong capital. Southern Chu, meanwhile, has the present circumstances: The foolish ruler and powerful Prime Minister seek only ease and comfort. The majority of the rungs of the Fengyi Sect have forgotten the old grudge, wanting only to breathe their last breath in Jiangnan. They dare not even bring up the word ‘revenge.’ I had been discouraged, but Grand General has given me hope.
“At the beginning, I hoped only to stop the southern march of the Yong armies. As long as Great Yong didn’t unify all the lands, it would cause eternal regret to the ruler and ministers of Great Yong. Later, I learned General had the ambition of taking the Central Plains and decided to serve Grand General with all my heart. I desire not glory, wealth, or rank; I simply want to see Grand General riding through the Central Plains one day. Then, my hatred will be avenged. Even though Grand General has taken me under his wing and mentored me, indirectly protecting me from that man, I feel no resentment.
“However, even though Grand General’s tactics are unrivaled, he has not the heart to engage in political struggles. With the authority General wields, removing Shang Weijun and controlling the full power of the court would be a piece of cake for General. Yet Grand General is willing to endure the oppression of that powerful Prime Minister. I know the history of past dynasties as well. Since time immemorial, if powerful ministers existed in the court, and a great general had rendered great service in the field, if he wished to conquer the Central Plains, he needed to purge the court around the monarch before staging an armed rebellion and to clean up the laws of the court. To repel foreign aggression, peace at home must be first achieved.
“However, I’m also aware of the Grand General’s loyalty, never thinking of gaining a powerful position. So this time, I didn’t secretly stop the deterioration of the situation. I just hope that after the Grand General has been forced to raise troops, he will rid the court of treacherous officials and stay until the court calms down. Once Grand General has unified the military and marched north, no further obstacles will exist. He will then be able to achieve great things that will last through all ages.
“If the Grand General is worried about preachy scholars lashing out at him, I can guarantee those people won’t have a way to cause trouble. The current court is overrun with crafty and fawning ministers. The virtuous ones have retired, and General has fought bravely for many years, protecting the peace of the state and the people. The will of the military and will of the people aligned with each other long ago. Now that the bad monarch and treacherous ministers maliciously hurt General, this is a good opportunity to rise up in rebellion. As long as the Grand General doesn’t abolish the position of king for the time being, those virtuous scholars will acclaim Grand General for the deed of eradicating traitorous ministers.
“If the Grand General can’t make a prompt decision, I fear that not only will the great undertaking be difficult to accomplish, General will encounter tragedy. No egg will be left intact when the nest is upset. If that happens, not only will the General’s family be implicated, his troops and officers under his command will be unable to escape by the skin of their teeth. Famous generals will be demoted or dismissed, outstanding ministers will die. Great Yong’s heavy cavalry will certainly take advantage to charge south. The State of Southern Chu will be toppled. Even though General will be dead in the underworld, he likely won’t be content, yes?”
Lu Can was silent for a long time. “As a child, I read history with Sir Jiang. Since ancient times, most famous generals did not come to good ends. Those who died on the battlefield were blessed by the Heavens. The majority died to the court. At the time, my master said to me that my Lu family had been generals for generations and should learn from Sun Wu3 and retire after accomplishing great things. I should not emulate Han Xin, resting on my laurels and becoming arrogant,4 much less emulate Li Mu and die alone and loyal.5 So I said to my master, ‘If the world is at peace, there is no harm in learning from the sagacity and caution of Sun Wu. If war is unending, I will not simply retire. Even if I become like Han Xin and Li Mu, I won’t regret it.’
“Can’s grandfather was promoted through the ranks by Emperor Wu. He grew up in the wilderness yet became a general. During his life, the Emperor favored him; after he died, he was buried in the tomb of a king. Such extensive grace is rarely seen in the world. Father should have served loyally, but the former kings were vacuous, and crafty and fawning ministers vied for power. When the wise king perished, good ministers were dismissed. Father worried for his personal safety and sealed his lips to the point that he watched the capital fall into enemy hands and the King and ministers get captured. When Father led the troops loyal to the throne into Jianye, he saw the capital that had been sheltered by flowers and shaded by willows days ago had been flattened and smashed.
“When Father visited Emperor Wu’s tomb, he begged forgiveness, tears gushing like blood. This regret and humiliation Father never forgot to the day he died. He was even more ashamed he didn’t risk offense and frankly admonish the King to protect the state. As he neared death, he even more tirelessly instructed me to not care about family and my own life, nor care about reputation and power. So for all these years, I didn’t pay heed to powerful ministers’ mockery, instead acting independently, frequently disobeying Prime Minister Shang. This time, I’ve offended the King, all for the sake of the security of the state. But if I use the failings of the court in the name of purging bad ministers to stage an armed rebellion, it would shame my buried father and grandfather, destroying the reputation of the Lu family’s loyalty.”
Wei Ying stood up in response and angrily said, “Grand General, how can you betray the will of the troops for the sake of your reputation of loyalty? If the Yong armies cross the Yangtze River and snuff out Southern Chu, Grand General, even if you still have the reputation of loyalty, what use will it be? Does General not consider the security of Jiangnan’s millions of commoners? Can you bear to see the ravages of war destroy the lands of Chu?”
Lu Can smiled. “Even if I rebel, can I truly rescue the state and the people? If so, you underestimate the Yong emperor and my master too much. When my master employs a strategy, he always considers everything. If I rise up in rebellion, the beautiful land of Jiangnan will immediately descend into civil war. Although the forces in Shang Weijun’s control are nothing compared to mine, it just needs Rong Yuan and me to battle in Jiangxia for ten days for the Yong armies to take advantage and march south. Even if Jiangxia is fine, Jiangling cannot be protected.
“The Ninghai Navy is still in Prime Minister Shang’s hands, and Ninghai’s commander, Zhao Qun, is part of the Royal Family. He will definitely raise troops in service to the throne. When that happens, the Eastern Sea Navy will take advantage by launching an offensive. Junshan in Ninghai also won’t be able to be protected. You should be well aware of the few possible results after all that.
“Even if Ninghai and Jiangling are fine, once the civil war spreads, Prime Minister Shang’s aristocratic family will be sure to raise troops in opposition. By that point, it will be impossible to sort out the war. What strength will be left to prevent the Yong military’s southbound march? If I rebel, I’ll be the criminal who toppled the state. I’m no man of blind loyalty. Merely, a man of character has things he can and cannot do. Planning rebellion for the sake of family and my own life is categorically intolerable.
“Wei Ying, do you still not understand? Sir Jiang used your wish for vengeance. If not for this, the stratagem of driving a wedge between us wouldn’t have worked.”
Wei Ying could only feel his mind reeling. His body was tottering, on the verge of collapse. He staggered backwards a few steps. He had had some expectations for the potential situation Lu Can would face upon rebelling. What traumatized him were Lu Can’s words. His own actions had actually been predicted by Jiang Zhe. If another told him this, he would just give a snort of contempt. But Lu Can was different. Wei Ying had been friends with Lu Can for many years. He was deeply knowledgeable about Lu Can’s skill and wisdom, and Lu Can had once been a student of Jiang Zhe. Naturally, he quite understood Jiang Zhe. If he said so, it was practically the truth. The humiliation and panic at being used by his enemy made him almost unable to control himself.
Then he heard Lu Can speak in an indifferent voice, “Although I have no wish to be a powerful minister, the reality is that I am one. Usually, I overlook the court’s suspicions, and the animosity between General Rong and me has a long history. As such, I fell into Sir Jiang’s trap. The current conclusion is my fault. With Sir’s character, there’s sure to be follow-up tricks. I assume I won’t have long left to live.
“Although Sir Wei is a little selfish, he has never turned his back on me. This time, I can no longer return to Jianghuai. Prime Minister Shang has definitely cut off news on the road already, so there’s some things I must request Sir Wei’s assistance with.”
With great difficulty, Wei Ying replied, “Great Yong’s heavy cavalry still hungrily eyes us. If all levels of society write a remonstration, and the Grand General expresses his goodwill to Prime Minister Shang. it may not be hopeless. Prime Minister Shang is not a foolish man. There’s always the possibility of redemption.” But he didn’t even believe himself. If not for the fact he believed Lu Can would never rebel, how could he come to see Lu Can alone? And he’d experienced Jiang Zhe’s methods firsthand. If Jiang Zhe’s stratagems had such obvious holes, he wouldn’t believe it.
Lu Can smiled and shook his head. “Let’s not talk about survival for the moment. Since Prime Minister Shang is prepared to act this time, he’s bound to act against more than just me. My many former subordinates will be fine, as Prime Minister Shang certainly won’t eliminate them all in one fell swoop. If he doesn’t leave some officers, how can he possibly fight against the Yong armies? However, Yang Xiu in Huaidong, Yu Mian in Sichuan, and Shi Guan in Huaixi will find it difficult to escape the crossfire.
“Of these three men, Yang Xiu may be my confidant, but he was part of the former Shu. He has no foundation in Jiangnan. I’ll write him a letter. Tell him on my behalf and guilt him into offering his services to Prime Minister Shang. If he helps, Prime Minister Shang can control the Huaidong army. Prime Minister Shang will accept him.
“Yu Mian is my former subordinate. He’s suffered repeated defeats in recent years, but I don’t blame him. I pulled all the elite troops from Sichuan. His resistance against the two hundred thousand-strong Yong army with just tens of thousands of troops was extremely difficult. But if Prime Minister Shang takes over command, he absolutely cannot let him leave. I know Yu Mian’s temper. He’s long been bitterly disappointed by Prime Minister Shang, and he isn’t from an aristocratic family. He’s only loyal to me. If I die, I fear he’ll surrender to the Yong military. If he truly has rebellion on the mind, he will first disobey royal decrees. If there’s any indication, dispatch someone with my sword I always carry and present it to Yu Mian. He’ll know what to do.
“Of Shi Guan, it’s a bit difficult. His daughter, Yujin, and Yun’er tied the knot not a year ago. And Yujin is already pregnant. She’s ready to die holding fast to her morals, so I’m afraid she’ll refuse to divorce amicably. However, Shi Guan should understand what’s at stake. I can only leave things as they are. As long as you tell Yun’er my intentions, it’ll suffice.”
Wei Ying’s heart broke. Even during the last-minute failure at Dawn’s Frost Palace Hall, he didn’t feel such sorrowful regret. Prostrating, he said, “Grand General, if rebelling still gives a chance for living, does Grand General not consider his wife and sons and daughter? Young master Yun may be young, but he’s brave and resourceful in battle, and as newlyweds, young master’s wife is already pregnant. She’ll be giving birth in five months. Does Grand General not want his grandson and his grandson’s father to meet face to face? And although Young master Feng is young, he’s smart and clever. Lady Mei and the youngest young master haven’t come of age yet. How can Grand General bear to have tragedy befall them?”
The glint of tears appeared in Lu Can’s eyes, and he turned his head away, sadly saying, “To win over my former subordinates, Prime Minister Shang won’t lawfully execute me, much less move against my wife and children. Yun’er has served in the army for many years and is rather famous for his military prowess. Prime Minister Shang likely won’t let him go. But Feng’er, Mei’er, and Ting’er are still children. If my expectations are correct, Prime Minister Shang will migrate my family members to the southern border, but they will presumably be harmed during the trip.
“Brother Wei, you’ve aided me for many years, but you still belong to the Fengyi Sect. If the North Star Hall is destroyed, the Fengyi Sect will lose a great deal of power, so as long as brother Wei doesn’t openly oppose them, Prime Minister Shang will tolerate you. After I die, if you can care for our old friendship, please try to lend a hand. I won’t have to entrust my former subordinates to your care either. Find an abandoned village and settle them there.”
Wei Ying’s face turned ashy and pallid, knowing Lu Can had made up his mind and definitely wouldn’t be rising up in revolt. Lu Can had already arranged for all appropriate measures to take place after his death, just for the sake of preventing turmoil in the military and not allowing Great Yong to take advantage and invade the south. He thought about how, if he hadn’t selfishly caused trouble, Lu Can would have had a small chance to counter. Even at this point, Lu Can still entrusted him with future matters, paying no mind to his infamy and mistakes. A standpoint slowly took hold within him. He clenched his teeth, drops of blood seeping out. He rose, then prostrated again. “Don’t worry, General. Even if I give up my life, I will do everything in my power to protect the General’s family.”
“I trust brother Wei will live up to expectations,” said Lu Can, relieved. “You and I have been friends for many years. When we part ways today, we likely will never meet again at a later date. I shouldn’t be urging you to leave, but the royal envoys are already on the road. It would be improper for others to see that brother Wei is still here. I have no choice but to ask brother Wei to depart this very night.”
Wei Ying lightly nodded. Taking the sword and letter Lu Can was passing over to him with both hands, multiple sharp stabs of pain ran through his heart. Enduring sorrow, he turned and walked out. Right as he walked out of the room, he heard a hubbub outside, vaguely hearing the words “royal envoy” and “royal decree.” He knew in his heart that Jianye’s royal decree had arrived. The bodyguard who’d escorted Wei Ying in had already been prepared and guided him through a side entrance out of the villa.
Stepping out of the courtyard house, Wei Ying couldn’t help circling back to the front to spy on things. He saw the royal envoys blocked at the door by soldiers furiously cursing at the soldiers guarding the door. He also saw several people behind the royal envoys wearing the colors of a eunuch. The faces were very familiar. Although their faces were slightly adorned and the robes were modified such that it wasn’t possible to see they were women in disguise, they couldn’t hide from his eyes. Hatred rose within him. Formerly magnificent and famous disciples had fallen so far. Seeking only ease and comfort in Southern Chu was all well and good, and they even knew to remove dissidents, but because Lu Can didn’t accept their goodwill, they didn’t hesitate to chop down the pillar of state. Such shortsightedness made him loathe the women.
While Wei Ying was gnashing his teeth in anger, Lu Can’s bodyguard walked out of the home, gave a military command, and let the envoys enter. Wei Ying’s blood froze. He knew events could no longer be reversed.
Two middle-aged, muscular men silently walked out of the shadows at this time. They both bowed respectfully. One of them rapidly said, “Chief, what should we do next?”
Wei Ying raised his head. Resolve in his eyes, he answered, “The grace of my close friend cannot be forgotten. We’ll first go to Huaixi to meet Young General Lu. Li Ming will come with me; Cui Xiang will mobilize all members of the North Star Hall. Listen to my orders: If I can persuade the Young General to revolt, the Grand General will have one lifeline. If I cannot, I will go to Huaidong to meet Yang Xiu. No matter what, we must not resign ourselves to fate.”
Footnotes:
长城空自许, Changcheng kong zixu – “I brag I am the Great Wall, fleeting as it was.” This is most of a line from a poem entitled “On Discontent” (书愤) by Southern Song Dynasty poet Lu You (陆游). 安陆, Anlu – a county in east-central Hubei; historically a commandery and prefecture that governed a much larger area 孙武, Sun Wu is believed to be the 孙子(Sun Tzu) who wrote the Art of War. Han Xin (韩信) was one of the foremost generals of the early Han, helping Liu Bang found the Han Dynasty. He received many titles and was also the origin of several Chinese idioms. Afterwards, he was demoted due to fears about his growing influence, and eventually accused of rebellion and was executed by Emperor Gaozu. Li Mu (李牧) was a brilliant general of the State of Zhao who held out with reduced territory against the State of Qin. Qin spies infiltrated the Zhao court and bribed courtiers to allege that he was planning a rebellion. Forced out of his position, he died shortly thereafter and the State of Zhao fell not long after.
