Three Dynasties of Fire: A Three Kingdoms AAR

**ZhongBoy** · June 26, 2019, 05:06 PM

三朝火: Three Dynasties of Fire
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"The Emperor and I are the two pillars of the Han. Destroy one of us, and the Han shall crumble." - Dong Zhuo, speaking to an unnamed court officer

After my first-ever AAR suffered a corrupted save-file, I've decided to restart my AAR on Legendary difficulty. Since most of the opening moves for Dong Zhuo are the same, I will denote the chapters that I have borrowed from my previous AAR; it is also for this reason that I have decided not to post my AAR until it reached the point of divergence from my other campaign.

Here are the details of my campaign
Type: Romance
Difficulty: Legendary/Legendary
Unit-Size: Ultra
Mods: N/A

I'll also be using plenty of in-game generic characters and will be giving them backstories that occurred to their real-life counterparts or writing new backstories for them. For the sake of numbers, I will be referring to army sizes that are multiplied by ten (For example, 300 men becomes 3,000 men while 5,000 men becomes a more realistic 50,000, which is more in-line with the armies fielded in China around that time). I will also include reference material here for things that are mentioned in by the characters. Without further ado, let's begin.

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Map of the Nine Imperial Provinces of Han (They'll be referred to throughout the series):

Note: A li is a unit of measurement equivalent to a kilometer, and was used in Ancient China to denote distances; it was basically the "mile" of the Han dynasty. I will be referring to all distances in the AAR with li.

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Chapters:
Prelude
Chapter 1: Dong Zhuo Exercises Tyranny From Chang'An
Chapter 2: The People Revolt Against Dong Zhuo
Chapter 3: Wang Yun Sets Forth His Beauty Scheme
Chapter 4: Yuan Shu Invades Sili Province (Point of Divergence)
Chapter 5: The Coup of Wang Yun; Cai Yong Becomes Prime Minister
Chapter 6: The Emperor Flees In Exile To Youbeiping
Chapter 7: Gongsun Zan Dies; Liu Yu And Gongsun Du Rebel Against Emperor Xian

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Prelude:
Domains under heaven, once divided, must unite; after a long period of union, they must divide. And so this cycle has continued since antiquity. When the rule of the Zhou kings became decadent and weak, seven nations sprung up from the chaos and warred among one another until the great nation of Qin prevailed and laid the foundation of empire. But after the Qin fulfilled their divine destiny, two more kingdoms arose; Chu and Han, to fight for supremacy. And Han emerged victorious.

The rise of Han occurred when Liu Bang, the Supreme Ancestor, slew a white serpent. The morning after this occurred, he saw an old woman weeping by the road. When his followers asked the old woman why she wept, she only replied, "My child, the White Emperor's son, has been slain by the son of the Red Emperor." She then disappeared. And so it was to come that Liu Bang, the Supreme Ancestor, raised his banners in uprising, and campaigned for many years until the entirety of all under heaven fell under the Han. This majestic legacy passed down for two hundred years, till the rebellion of Wang Mang caused disruption and chaos to spread throughout the empire. But soon Liu Xiu defeated the usurper, and restored the peace of the Han, and the Emperor's continued their benevolent rule for another two centuries until the days of Emperor Shao, who saw the Empire rot from within and collapse again into chaos.

The Emperor Shao cannot be blamed for this chaos, as the descent into misrule was hastened by his predecessors - the Emperor Huan, and the Emperor Ling - who ascended to the dragon throne during the latter second century. The Emperor Huan did not rule at all - instead, he passed the scepter to his palace eunuchs and paid no heed to the conditions of the common people. The Emperor Ling had two great advisers; the Regent Dou Wu and the Imperial Guardian Chen Fan. Both men were disgusted by the excesses of the eunuchs, and plotted to overthrow them in order to halt the decline and misrule of the dynasty. The plot was discovered, and the honest Dou Wu and Chen Fan were put to death, leaving the eunuchs more powerful than before.

Above: Emperor Ling of Han, who's careless rule allowed the eunuchs to virtually take over the Imperial government.

Faced with the corruption and abuses of the eunuch faction, the common people could take no more. The Yellow Turbans arose from the provinces, disrupting the peace and order of the Han. The Emperor Ling, having allowed the Imperial Army to fall into decay, could not handle this catastrophe. And so he called upon the governors of the Han to send forth their own armies to quench the rebellion. They did so successfully, bringing the rebels to justice wherever they could find them. And thus the Han was restored to stability; but still yet the issue of the Eunuchs remained.

After the death of Emperor Ling, He Jin, the Commander of the Imperial Army, again conspired with the brothers Yuan Shao and Yuan Shu to remove the power of the eunuchs. But as they could not persuade the Empress Dowager He to support their efforts, He Jin summoned the General of the Vanguard, Dong Zhuo, to the capital with his elite Xiliang troops to assist him in this task. The eunuchs, fearing for their lives, forged an edict in the Empress Dowagers name and summoned He Jin to the inner palace. Although Yuan Shao and Yuan Shu saw through this hidden plot, He Jin insisted on going. Upon entering the inner palace, He Jin was immediately assassinated by the eunuchs, whom threw his severed head over the palace wall. His troops who had waited outside were enraged, and stormed the inner palace, killing any and all eunuchs they could find. Thousands of eunuchs were slaughtered, and in the midst of the chaos, the Emperor Shao was kidnapped along with his younger brother, the Prince of Chenliu.

Above: The infamous Dong Zhuo, whom would seize power as the Prime Minister of the Han government.

The Emperor and his brother were discovered wandering the hills outside Luoyang soon after by Dong Zhuo's troops. With no armed escort and low on supplies, Dong Zhuo "saved" the Emperor and the Prince. Dong Zhuo, however, believed that the Emperor Shao would grow up to be a weak ruler. Although young, he was unlike his brother; he had hid from Dong Zhuo's men whereas his younger brother had greeted them confidently. And so Dong Zhuo, believing that the Han needed a strong Emperor to survive it's weakened state, deposed the Emperor Shao and raised the Prince of Chenliu, whom ascended the throne as the Emperor Xian. Dong Zhuo then appointed himself the Prime Minister of the Han, and so the decline continued for he surrounded himself in excesses just as much as the eunuchs once had.

Dong Zhuo's disregard for Imperial customs and his dethronement of Emperor Shao infuriated many, and within a year, Yuan Shao had mustered a massive coalition to 'save' the Han from the tyrant. Among the lords who joined him were his brother Yuan Shu, the cunning Cao Cao, the White Horse General Gongsun Zan, the Tiger of Jiangdong Sun Jian, and the honorable Liu Bei. With their combined armies numbering over 100,000 men, they marched with the goal of restoring the Han Emperor. The vanguard, led by Sun Jian, soon inflicted a number of defeats upon Dong's troops and pushed them back to the outskirts of Luoyang. For the court officials whom had suffered much under Dong's regime, it seemed that salvation was at hand. Alas, this was not to be. With his position at stake, Dong Zhuo directed that the Imperial court be moved to Chang'an, that Luoyang be sacked, that the Imperial tombs be plundered, and that the city be razed and left to the coalition. Furthermore, as if out of spite, Dong Zhuo had the deposed Emperor Shao and his mother executed to prevent the coalition from returning him to the throne. And so it was that Luoyang, a sprawling metropolis whom at one point was rivaled only by Rome, was reduced to ash and cinders. When Sun Jian arrived with the vanguard troops of the coalition, he found nothing but ruins where the capital once stood. With his supplies stretched to the limit, he was forced to abandon the city and withdraw eastward.

Above: Dong Zhuo's men raze Luoyang.

With Dong Zhuo holding Emperor Xian as a puppet in Chang'an and internal bickering among it's members, the coalition lost momentum and disbanded soon after the abandonment of Luoyang. The centuries-old Han dynasty was now in it's twilight; and soon, a new China would arise from the ashes.

**ZhongBoy** · June 26, 2019, 06:04 PM

Chapter 1: Dong Zhuo Exercises Tyranny From Chang'an

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Dong Zhuo summoned Li Ru to his office in Meiwo palace. Li Ru was among the few voices that Dong Zhuo trusted within his court; for he saw the ministers that served the previous Emperors as nothing but pathetic old men who wept for a rotting corpse of a nation. Although Dong Zhuo, naming himself the Imperial Father as well as the Prime Minister, was the de facto ruler of the Han, he cared very little for the people he governed or the Imperial state itself beyond military matters. His "governance" was therefore limited to receiving reports from his trusted officials, men such as Li Ru.

Above: Map of Dong Zhuo's holdings in the summer of 190AD

"Your excellency. To date, your realm consists of 97,000 households with an approximate population of 320,000 inhabitants. You have 16,000 men in the field, led by the General of the East Lu Bu, the Commandant of Horse Zhang Liao, and the General of the Rear Guo Si. Currently, Lu Bu and Zhang Liao are leading a force of 7,000 men on campaign, while Guo Si commands 5,000 men in the defense of Chang'an and it's surrounding regions. You have done much to establish yourself as the protector of the Imperial mantle and the overlord of Liang province, but the question of the coalition still remains."

Above: Dong Zhuo's enemies to the east in the summer of 190AD

"The armies of the coalition still outnumber us and we are at war on many fronts, but our spies report heavy discontent between the lords of the coalition. Yuan Shao and Yuan Shu have developed a deep rivalry between each other to head the coalition, while Sun Jian and Cao Cao have resigned from the coalition altogether and will be unlikely to give us much future trouble even if they are remaining in a state of open revolt. I recommend that we take a defensive stance towards the east for now, and to avoid expansion beyond the our current holdings in in Sili province. Instead of moving deeper into Sili, our power is in Liang, and so my recommendation is to lick our wounds and await a opportunity to strike. Yuan Shao is weak, and sooner or later, he will make a mistake. Once he is destroyed, the people of Tianxia* will flock to your banners, for you are still the protector of the Emperor."

"As for Liang province itself, the Imperial governors of Ma Teng and Han Sui are both amicable to us, for now. However, I suggest forming commerce agreements with at least one of them in order to secure control of the western trade routes and to bolster government revenue. They will also be less likely to betray us if we show them favor in our dealings."

Above: Dong Zhuo signs a commerce agreement with Han Sui

Dong Zhuo nodded along. "Good! I will send an ambassador to both, and we will form a commercial pact with the more agreeable one. Whatever the case, I've never cared much for anything east of Mount Hua in the first place - the people there are soft-hard and weak, and the nobles simply bicker and fight. There is nothing to be gained outside of Liang province, at least for now. However, in the meantime, send another messenger to Guo Si. Order him eastward to guard our counties in Sili province and prevent any enemy force from sailing up the Yellow River into Chang'an. And what news from Fengxian*? How does he fare in Anding?"

"The last messages indicate that he has passed by Anding city and is headed north to crush some troublesome remnants of the Yellow Turban rebellion. He indicates that he shall send news of his success in the coming days, and will return to Chang'an as soon as possible, as per your request."

"Very well! Another matter I must discuss with you."

"What is it, your excellency?

"The state is running out of money. My builders have made a grave error in calculating the construction costs of Meiwo palace. Furthermore, as for the coalition, I believe that our current army is not enough. We must double the number of men we have under arms, but that our treasury is already strained to it's limit. What advice do you have for me regarding our financial matters?"

Li Ru stroked his beard in contemplation. He paused for a moment to gather his thoughts, and then spoke. "Your excellency. Your domains are vast and populous, and virtually all of Liang province is under your rule. The common people of could certainly pay more than they do currently. May I suggest a increase in the tax by one-fifth of our current taxes. The Han treasuries are also vast, and they too were relocated alongside the court when you moved the capital. Many magistrates hold loyalty to the Han, and therefore they shall hold loyalty to you. To demand tribute as well as more advantageous commerce agreements from them could bring in an addition source of income. Perhaps you could tax the county governments as well. If they do not go along with your demands, you could attempt to convince them with various trinkets from the Imperial coffers or order them by force."

Satisfied with Li Ru's answer, Dong Zhuo dismissed him with instructions to draft the relevant edicts.

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On the first day of the fourth month, Dong invited the ministers to court in the Hall of Everlasting Justice. There Dong Zhuo, sword in hand, faced the gathering officials and said, “The previous Emperors have misruled this land and emptied our treasuries. Since the state now cannot pay for it's expenses, the Emperor Xian has issued a new edict to address this issue. Now listen to the document I have prepared.”

Li Ru then strode up to the center of the court. Removing a scroll from his robes, he began to read the contents aloud. “The Emperor Ling was deficient in administration and remiss in virtue. Under his reign, the state adminstration fell into confusion, and the corruption sapped the land and Imperial government of wealth. In a time of trouble across the realm, we must take swift and decisive action. The most virtuous amongst you have seen this inevitability. Therefore, the tax for the commoners has been increased by one-fifth of the original tax, and every three households is to supply one man for service in the Imperial army. The purpose of these acts is to ensure the safety and prosperity of the realm, and they will be effective immediately."

Above: The taxes for commoners are increased by twenty percent in order to support Dong's new ambitions

"Furthermore, all regional governors are to pay a special tax to Chang'an, and will continue to pay this tax until a time can be found where the treasury is no longer in such a dire situation. They will also be forced to turn over all revenue from taxes levied from commerce to the Imperial government. These governors have long benefited from the grace of his majesty, and they must be willing to return this favor in his time of need."

Above: Dong Zhuo demands a commercial pact and a special tax from the other Han administrators in exchange for ancillaries.

The Minister of the Treasury, Li Cheng protested these demands. "The common people have suffered much under the Yellow Turban rebellion. To ask this is them is to ask too much. Many will be left destitute by these new taxes. And to remove the workers from the cities and farms - that does nothing but ensure that many will starve!"

Dong Zhuo was unmoved by Li Cheng's plea for the commoners. "How can I stop to consider a few common people when the fate of the Empire is at stake? Besides, the Emperor Xian has approved this edict. Unlike many of you, he has had the foresight to realize that I am the last hope for the Great Han to survive. To stand against me is to stand against his majesty. To stand against his majesty is to stand against heaven. The state has expenses, and they must be paid. Those who do not support me in this matter will suffer death.”

In order to set an example to the rest of the assembled ministers, Dong Zhuo then ordered his guards to take Li Cheng outside of the palace and put him to death. Fear then seized the assembled ministers and they fell silent. With no further resistance, the new tax edicts were enacted, and the soldiers of Dong Zhuo set about his lands in their duties of revenue collection and constructing a large ministry to handle the influx of new conscripts.

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After fleeing to Chang'an during the waning days of the coalition, Lu Bu was promoted to General of the Left Flank by Dong Zhuo and granted command of 800 elite Xiliang horsemen and the Army of Righteous Justice. His first act was to march north to deal with the remnants of the Yellow Turban Rebellion in Anding Commandery, alongside his trusted comrade, Zhang Liao with a combined force of 7,000. They had marched into the land of the Yellow Turbans and had arrived outside their main settlement in the region. They then laid siege to the settlement, but Lu Bu was growing impatient as he wished to return to Chang'an. With this in mind, the army of Dong Zhuo prepared themselves for an assault at dusk.

Above: Initial strength reports from the siege of Anding industrial county

Spoiler for Capture of Anding industrial county:

Despite outnumbering the army of Dong Zhuo, it was known that Yellow Turban forces often lacked discipline. Thus, faced with the professional troops brought by Lu Bu and Zhang Liao, victory was highly likely. The only question that remained was the amount of losses that would be taken by the force, something that both commanders wanted to keep to a minimum. Zhang Liao deployed his infantry on the southern end of the settlement, while Lu Bu took the front of the formation. Once the troops were in place, Zhang Liao made the first move, ordering his archers forward to ignite the defensive towers with fire arrows.

Above: The defensive towers are set ablaze

Once the towers had been burnt, the archers then unleashed barrage after barrage of arrows into the amassed enemy defenders. Lu Bu, not content to wait any longer, rallied his cavalry and the remaining infantry for a frontal assault. Advancing in two columns and led personally by Lu Bu, the Xiliang cavalry soon closed the distance between the enemy defenders and themselves. Meanwhile, the axe warriors advanced on the right flank. Seeing that his comrade had ordered an advance, Zhang Liao ordered the archers to withdraw.

Above: The forces of Lu Bu charge the enemy defenders.

With a thunderous crash, the cavalry burst through the ranks of the Yellow Turban warriors. They continued onwards, their momentum carrying them towards the Yellow Turban archers stationed in the rear. The rebel archers released their arrows, but it was too late, and the cavalry soon collided into their formation. Facing Meanwhile, the axemen caught up and began to engage whatever survived the first charge. Arrows rained down on the

Above: The cavalry charge into the Yellow Turban camp

Realizing that the day was lost, the Yellow Turban commander called for a general retreat. Lu Bu ordered his cavalry to pursue the rebel men, knowing that each escaped rebel was a potential future troublemaker. Leading by example, he rode to and fro the enemy ranks, ensuring that every fleeing unit left behind a trail of corpses. Some units attempted to rally and fight the onslaught of Imperial troops, but they too soon broke and fled.

Above: The cavalry of Lu Bu pursue fleeing rebel infantry.

Within the hour, the Yellow Turban resistance in the camp had collapsed. All that remained of the once formidable rebel movement in the camp were corpses, rotting away through the night.

Above: Despite moderate losses, the Anding campaign is a huge success.

With the capture of Anding industrial county and the victory of Lu Bu, nothing remained between the region's three thousand inhabitants and the rampant looting that Dong Zhuo's troops were notorious for. Fortunately for them, however, Dong Zhuo had use of their county. And thus, beyond an occupation, they were not subjected to further abuse. With control of the county now securely under an administrator appointed by Dong Zhuo, Lu Bu now led his forces south to Chang'an at the summons of his adoptive father. Much work yet remained before they could strike back at the coalition warlords and restore peace and control over the empire.

Above: The realm of Dong Zhuo, circa mid-190AD

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Some stuff for record-keeping

Current Population, End of Chapter 1: 323,000
Dong Zhuo's Army Size, End of Chapter 1: 12,000
Current Ruler, End of Chapter 1: Dong Zhuo (189 - )
Current Year: 190AD

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*Fengxian was the personal name of Lu Bu; personal names are often used by family members and close associates, and since Dong Zhou is Lu Bu's adopted father, he calls Lu Bu the name Fengxian.

*Tianxia is a contemporary reference to China and the Han Empire in general. It means "all under heaven".

**ZhongBoy** · June 26, 2019, 06:49 PM

Chapter Two: The People Revolt Against Dong Zhuo

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"The rebel Dong Zhuo conceived a foul design
To thrust the Emperor aside and wrong his line
With folded arms the courtiers stood silent, save one
Ding Guan, who dared to cry that wrong was done"
- Chinese poem, Unknown Author

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With revenue flowing in from the increased taxes and tribute payments, Dong Zhuo immediately set about consolidating his position from Liang province. He added two units of swordsmen and two units of archers to Guo Si's army for maximum end-strength of 12,000 men, while more troops awaited to be assigned to Lu Bu's forces once they returned from Anding. The newly-built Ministry of Conscripts would serve as an excellent training ground for the new recruits and ensure that they were at least of semi-professional quality. Although many would be former craftsmen and farmers, they too would soon learn the mastery of arms.

Above: The expansion of Guo Si's army, which received two new units of archers and two new units of jian infantry.

At the further recommendation of Li Ru, much cash was also devoted to strengthening the defenses in the coastal trading port of Luoyang Commandery as well as constructing walls around the capital of Anding Commandery. The trading outposts in Hanzhong Commandery were also expanded considerably, with new accommodations and marketplaces for foreign merchants to establish Dong's influence over the western trade routes. Thousands were conscripted as laborers to build the new projects.

Above: The three major construction projects undertaken during the fall of 190AD.

Once the news that Lu Bu had been successful in his Anding campaign reached Chang'an, Dong Zhuo was overcome with joy, and feasted the officials of the realm within the Imperial palace. There, despite Lu Bu's absence, he promoted him to General of the East and bestowed upon him a gift of three hundred ounces of gold and one hundred bolts of fine silk. Emboldened by the success of his adopted son, he demanded two further tribute payments on top of the special tax from the Han administrators in order to fund his ambitions. Two such massive payments were demanded from the surrounding governors during the fall months, and when they at first refused to comply, Dong Zhuo sent forth messengers with armed escorts to coerce them. As a result, the treasury was filled with ill-gotten cash and many regional officials of the Han left destitute.

Above: Dong Zhuo, once again, coercing the Han administrators to give massive payments to fund his projects.

Meanwhile in Chang'an Dong Zhuo's arrogance and domineering spirit had grown worse. In his behavior acted as in Emperor in all but name. A nephew, Dong Huang, was made Court Counselor, and all those of his clan were ennobled. He also pushed forth with the expansion of Meiwo, a massive palace complex several li from Chang'an. Within Meiwo he held 200,000 bushels of grain, forcing many farmers to give up their harvests as the people starved during the winter of 190; tens of thousands died as a result of famine, and many more were reduced to eating blades of grass on the roadside. Moved by this suffering, the Minister Zhang Wen pleaded with Dong Zhuo to release one-tenth of the granaries at Meiwo to relieve the common people. Dong Zhuo steadfastly refused to heed this counsel, once again stating that "Imperial policy will not be altered by commoners."

Above: The situation in Anding becomes dangerously close to open revolt after the winter famine

In the spring of 191AD, a courier arrived at Chang'an with a urgent message from the magistrate of Anding. The people, tired of the burdening taxes and forced conscription, were conspiring with the Yellow Turban remnants to revolt. In response, Dong Zhuo ordered Guo Si north from his defensive positions in Sili province. On Li Ru's advice, Dong Zhuo also reformed the Bureau of Banditry in a last-minute attempt to halt the spread of unrest.

However, the reforms of Li Ru did little to placate the unrest. During the scorching summer of 191AD, thousands of rebels rose up again in Anding Commandery. They were aided by elements of the Yellow Turban rebellion that gone into hiding in Liang province. Frantic requests for reinforcements by administrators in Sili province and Hanzhong Commandery were soon received by the court. Dong Zhuo's disregard for the common people had not been without consequences, and now thousands were rising in revolt. Dong Zhuo, once again, responded with force of arms. He was the Prime Minister of the Han, and the idea of backing down from his new policies was unacceptable.

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Cai Yong, the Minister of Rites and Imperial Historian, strode nervously up the steps to Dong Zhuo's personal study. Dong Zhuo had always been generous to him - after all, it was to Dong Zhuo that he owed his position and it was Dong Zhuo who had pardoned him after he had been punished for insulting the eunuchs, but his reputation of being a cruel tyrant was well-deserved. The murder of Emperor Shao and his mother had seen to that. If the so-called Prime Minister of the Han was even willing to treat the Imperial clan so callously, then one could not be too careful to avoid arousing his ire. After being announced by the guard, Cai Yong entered and knelt.

"Minister Cai, what may I do for you today?" Dong Zhuo was reading through letters. The matters of state had kept him busy recently, with revolts in Anding, Wang Kuang sailing up to raid the settlements on the Yellow River, and Yuan Shu posturing for what seemed to be an invasion of their holdings in Sili province.

"Your excellency," Cai Yong remained kneeling as he spoke, "As you know, I have begun compiling an official history of the Xia, Shang, Zhou, and Han dynasties for your viewing. However, the atmosphere of Chang'an is hectic and busy, and with the politics of the court I am finding little time to progress on my works. I believe some time outside of the Imperial capital may be beneficial to my thoughts, and wish to request of you an outside appointment."

Dong Zhuo paused, and looked up in surprise. "Certainly, I cannot let a scholar of such wisdom become hampered with court politics. Tell you what, Minister Cai. I will grant you a position outside of Chang'an. You will be promoted to Left General of the Household, and be given a military tally to allow you to raise and command troops. I will assign you two units of archers, and four contingents of siege machinery, plus temporary command of two units of spearmen to be given to reinforce Zhang Liao. You will serve alongside my adopted son Lu Bu as he takes up a defensive position near Mount Hua. Tutor him in the scholarly arts, if you may. He is my adopted son, and while he is well-versed in the art of military matters, he has little knowledge in the finer things."

"Your excellency, I thank you for this appointment. However, I am but a scholar and have never before led troops in my life. Perhaps a position as a county magistrate or - " Cai Yong was cut off.

"Nonsense. You are a man of great wisdom, and the men you will serve with - Lu Bu and Zhang Liao - are both capable commanders. If your troops give you problems, speak to either one of them, and they will see to it that discipline will be upheld. Will that be all, Minister Cai?"

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To reinforce the army that had just returned from Anding, Cai Yong, a court minister, was appointed Left General of the Household and granted command of two units of archers and four contingents of siege artillery. He was then assigned to serve under Lu Bu and Zhang Liao. Following the suggestions of his advisers, Dong Zhuo then dispatched this new force eastward to placate Sili province, while the garrison force in Hanzhong was doubled. These actions soon proved wise when revolts arose in these provinces later that year.

Above: Lu Bu's new army, totaling end-strength of 15,000

As Lu Bu's army prepared to march eastward to defend Sili, a courier arrived from Anding bearing good news. Guo Si and Niu Fu's army, totaling 10,000 men, had fallen upon the Yellow Turban rebels while they were encamped outside Anding. Despite moderate losses, the army had crushed the rebels and captured their chieftain Ma Liao. Ma Liao was executed, and the remnants of the rebels had fled to the countryside, pursued by Niu Fu and Li Jue's cavalry.

The mass uprisings of that year only hardened Dong Zhuo's resolve to destroy his enemies, both external and internal. He accused many officials of conspiring with the rebels or the coalition, and had them executed. His attitude towards the court grew more and more suspicious as well.

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With their provisions running low and Lu Bu's army approaching from the west, the rebels in Luoyang Commandery began their plan to seize the local trading port ahead of schedule. The local garrison, having been bolstered by the reforms of Li Ru, outnumbered them, but they hoped that the element of surprise would win the day. However, they had already been tipped off by a defector. When the rebels began their advance on the outskirts, they found the garrison already on alert. Now stuck between the port garrison and Lu Bu's army, their leader decided to press on with their plans.

Above: Initial strength report for the Luoyang Trade Port Revolt

Spoiler for Luoyang Trade Port Revolt:

Above: Casualties from the revolt

Although Lu Bu's army was still several hundred li away, the garrison proved itself more than capable of fending off the rebel force. However, with no other option but to face the formidable Lu Bu, the rebel chieftain Xing Yang decided to launch a second assault. This was also met with a predictable result, and Xing Yang himself was captured.

Above: Xing Yang is captured after his second assault

Almost the entire rebel force was slain, forcing the rest to retreat to the countryside where they scattered. Xing Yang, who had been captured by a garrison patrol, was executed for treason. News of the victory and the decapitated heads of several rebel officers were immediately sent to Chang'an, and Dong Zhuo responded by sending back a gift of one hundred ounces of gold to reward the local magistrates for their actions in repelling the rebels.

Although pleased with the news that the rebels in Sili province had been defeated, Dong Zhuo remained infuriated that the people had the audacity to consider revolt in the first place. He soon issued edicts in the name of Emperor Xian ordering captured rebels to be executed, their assets seized, and those who openly spoke in support of revolt to suffer the same penalty as treason. Soon, the Han empire would die, and Dong Zhuo, even if he did not show it publicly, dreamt that one day he would ascend the throne himself and rule China as the new Emperor. In his new China, there was to be no room for dissent. Others, however, would disagree.

With their provisions running low and eager to prevent Dong Zhuo's men from resupplying themselves, the remaining rebel armies plundered the land of any wealth and grain. The Imperial troops, facing the same difficulty with their rations, were more than happy to participate as well, seizing or destroying crops to prevent the rebels from getting them first. Caught between two warring sides and with the yearly harvest burnt or looted, the common people were left to suffer another famine through the winter of 191AD.

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Some stuff for record-keeping

Current Population, End of Chapter 2: 250,000
Dong Zhuo's Army Size, End of Chapter 2: 26,000
Current Ruler, End of Chapter 2: Dong Zhuo (189 - )
Current Year: 191AD

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**ZhongBoy** · June 26, 2019, 07:22 PM

Chapter Three: Wang Yun Sets Forth His Beauty Scheme

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"The waters of the mighty Yangzi flow eastward,
its spray drowning countless heroes.
Right and wrong, success and failure, become empty in the blink of an eye;
green mountains are always present;
how many times has the setting sun been red?
The white haired fishermen and woodcutters are standing on the sand bars near the banks,
accustomed as they are to gazing at the autumn moon and the spring breezes.
By chance, they happily meet with a jar of strong liquor in hand;
how many things from past and present have they laughed and talked about with each other?" - Luo Guangzhong, poet

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The resurgence of the Yellow Turbans in the lands of Dong Zhuo concerned Li Ru. As Prime Minister Dong Zhuo's most trusted state minister, it was Li Ru who had proposed and overseen the implementation of the new policies. He had expected some resistance in the form of unruly mobs or angry governors, but not anything requiring mustering armies. Three major revolts had occurred, and more were certain to come. One had made a two failed assaults in Sili province beofre being extingushed while another one had been crushed by Guo Si.

However, what concerned Li Ru the most concerning the revolts was the depopulation of the realm. The harsh winters, heavy taxes, famine, and revolt had taken a toll, and there were whispers that around fifty thousand commoners had died during the famine of the previous two winters. Furthermore, with the fertile lands in the east still under open rebellion, the collapsing harvests would only grow worse under a high tax rate.

In Chang'an, Li Ru requested an audience from the Prime Minister. "Your excellency. The common people have suffered greatly from two harsh winters. May I suggest a reduction in the grain tax in order to relieve their troubles? You may demand double the grain in order to make up for our losses next year. The revolts and famine have killed many, and there are rumors in the court that as as much as eighty thousand have perished or can no longer be accounted for by our census officials.

Dong Zhuo shot back at Li Ru's concerns with contempt. "Bah! We have many more. And besides, the entire Han empire is at my command. I have the Emperor! And do you know how many people were recorded during the time of Emperor Ling? Sixty million! There are more commoners in Tianxia* than there are stars in the sky. If worst comes to worst, I can simply order some to settle in Liang province, and be done with it. I advise you, Minister Li, that many of your colleagues have already petitioned me on this matter. I do not care for it, and so not trouble me with it again."

Spoiler for Anding Revolt:

Above: The casualty report from Guo Si's victory against the rebels

At noon the same day a courier arrived from Guo Si's army. His army had happened upon another rebel encampment some li to the south of Anding and had launched a surprise attack upon their encampment, and had emerged victorious in completely obliterating the rebels. Many rebels had surrendered voluntarily and had been allowed to pledge to their lives to the service of Dong Zhuo. Dong Zhuo, elated, then directed Guo Si be given the title "General Who Pacifies The North".

Above: Dong Zhuo once again demands tribute

Dong Zhuo's military successes, if even only against his own subjects, only encouraged his brazen behavior, and he once again approached the Han governors with demands for additional tribute. The treasuries at Meiwo soon overflowed with gold and jade, and the amount contained was said to be beyond count. Dong Zhuo hoarded this treasure jealously, and ignored all pleas to distribute even small amounts of it to relieve the troubles faced by the common people. Dong Zhuo even halted the infrastructure plans of Li Ru and Jia Xu, preferring to redirect the funds to lavish feasts and splendor that put even the Imperial clan to shame.

Despite his victories and immense wealth, however, Dong Zhuo still remained vengeful against the coalition lords, and blamed them for the issues that had arisen in the realm. During one of his great feasts at Meiwo, Dong Zhuo sat at the head of a great gathering of various officials and kinsmen. After the wine had gone up and down several times, Lu Bu hurriedly entered and whispered a few words in his father's ear. Dong Zhuo smiled and said, “He was always so. Take my brother Dong Min outside.”

The others all turned pale. Within the hour, a servant returned with the head of their fellow guest on a serving tray and showed it to their Dong Zhuo. Terrified murmurs begin to ripple among the assembly as fear hung in the air like a thick fog. Sensing the panic among his guests, Dong Zhuo rose to speak.

Above: Dong Zhuo executes his younger brother, Dong Min.

“Do not fear, my friends,” said Dong Zhuo smiling. “I have discovered that my brother, Dong Min was in league with the Yellow Turbans to assassinate me and take my place as Prime Minister of the Han. He had provided them with information about our defenses in Sili province, and was therefore spreading unrest and treason throughout the land. I know this because a letter he wrote to a chieftain of the Yellow Turbans fell by mistake into the hands of my men, so I have had him put to death. You gentlemen, who have done no harm against me, need not have fear in your hearts.”

Dong Zhuo's words assuaged nobody, and when the feast came to an end, the remaining guests quickly dispersed.

******************

Spoiler for Lu Bu Meets Diaochan:

One of the guests, the Minister of the Masses Wang Yun, returned to his palace in a state of distress. The same evening, under the full moon, he went for a stroll in his private courtyard. Standing near one of the trellises, he gazed up at the sky and the tears rolled down his cheeks. Suddenly he heard a rustle in the nearby pavilion and the sound of someone sighing deeply. Stealthily moving nearby, he saw a young woman in his household named Diaochan. She had been adopted by him as a infant, and he had raised her as his only daughter. At twenty one, her beauty bloomed like the spring flower, and she was as clever as she was pretty.

After listening for some time, Wang Yun called out, “What mischief are you up to there?"

Diaochan dropped onto her knees in terror, saying, “Would your unworthy daughter dare to do anything wrong?”

“Then what are you sighing about out here in the darkness?”

“May your daughter speak from the bottom of her heart?”

“Tell me the truth, then. Do not hide anything.”

And Diaochan said, “Your daughter has received uncountable amounts of kindness from you. She has been raised in a noble household of great repute, and has been taught to sing and dance and been treated so kindly that if she could not repay her lord if she died one thousand deaths. She has noticed that her lord has recently been distressed, and knows that it is because the Imperial state suffers, but she does not dare to involve herself in these affairs. Tonight, her lord seemed more distressed than ever, and she became miserable for she felt sympathy for her lord. But she did not know that she would be seen. If she could be of use, then she will not shrink from duty, even if it involves her death."

A sudden idea came to Wang Yun. And he said, “The fate of the Han dyansty lies in your palm. Come with me!” Diaochan followed him into the house. Then he dismissed all his servants, sat Diaochan onto a chair and bowed before her. She was frightened and threw herself on the ground, asking in terror what he meant.

Wang Yun said, “You can sympathize with the people of Han,” and he began to weep.

“My lord, your faithful daughter has said, use her in any way, and she shall face her fate bravely” Diaochan replied.

Wang Yun continued, “Our people are on the brink of destruction, the Emperor and all of his officials are in danger, and you, you are the only savior. The tyrant Dong Zhuo wants to depose the Emperor and not a person among us can find means to stop him. But he has a son, a bold and valiant warrior, but both father and son have a weakness for beauty, and I am going to use what I may call the 'beauty' plan. I shall first propose you in marriage to Lu Bu and then, after you are betrothed, I shall present you to Dong Zhuo, and you will take every opportunity to create a divide between them and so that the son may assassinate the adopted father and so put an end to the decline of our dynasty. And so you may save our the Emperor and his dynasty, and restore peace and stability to all under heaven. All this lies within your power; will you do it?”

“Your daughter has promised to fulfill her duties in any way. I will do my best. And if your daughter does not show gratitude, then may she die by the sword!", replied Diaochan.

“You have my greatest of thanks” said Wang Yun, and he bowed to Diaochan once more.

Then Wang Yun took from the family treasury many pearls and gold, then ordered a craftsmen to fashion a decorated helmet, which was sent as a present to Lu Bu. The general was delighted with the gift and came personally to thank the donor.

When Lu Bu arrived, he was met at the gate by Wang Yun himself who led him within. He was then conducted into the great hall of the palace and placed in the seat of honor. Lu Bu said, “I am a simple general in the service of the Imperial army; you are one of the greatest ministers and noblemen in all of Tianxia; why must you treat me so well?"

“Because in the whole land there is no warrior that is your equal. Wang Yun does not bow to ones rank; he bows to one's ability“ This answer satisfied Lu Bu, and Wang Yun continued to praise and flatter and ply him with wine and food and spoke of the virtues of Dong Zhuo and his lieutenants. Presently most of the attendants were sent away, only a few kept to press the guest to drink. When the guest was very mellow, Wang Yun suddenly said, “Let Diaochan come in!” Soon appeared two attendants, dressed in white, leading Diaochan between them.

“Who is this?” asked Lu Bu. “This is my daughter, Diaochan. You will not be annoyed at me introducing her to you, will you? You have been very friendly, and her beauty carries repute, and so I believed that you would like to meet her.

Wang Yun gestured to Diaochan to present a goblet of wine to Lu Bu,and her eyes met his.

Wang Yun feigning intoxication said, “My little daughter asks you, General, to take a cup or two. We all depend upon you, all our house.”

Lu Bu begged Diaochan to sit down. She pretended to be tired, and wanting to return to her chambers. Wang Yun then pretended to press her to remain,saying that she might do so since the guest was a dear friend. And so she took a seat next to her lord. Lu Bu kept his gaze fixed upon the maid, while he drink cup after cup of wine.

“I am curious if you would be interested in taking her as your wife, if you should accept.” said Wang Yun. The guest looked up. “If that is so, you may rely upon my abject gratitude,” said Lu Bu.

“Then we shall choose a suitable day, and send her to the palace to be your bride” Lu Bu was overjoyed. He could not keep his eyes off Diaochan, and loving glances flashed from her eyes.

However the time came for the guest to leave, and Wang Yun said, “I would ask you to remain the night,but the Prime Minister might suspect something. I will send for you when the time comes” Lu Bu thanked him again and again and departed.

******************

Spoiler for Dong Zhuo is introduced to Diaochan:

One week later, while Wang Yun was at court and Lu Bu had gone on campaign against the rebels in Sili province, Wang bowed before Dong Zhuo and said, "My lord, I invite you to come dine with me at my humble home, if you were willing to grace my household with your presence, I would most certainly be grateful."

"If you were to invite me to your home, I would certainly come at haste and share your gratitude," came the reply.

Wang Yun thanked him, then went home and ordered his servants to prepare in the great hall a feast containing every delicacy from all corners of the Han Empire. Gold and silk embroideries surrounded the seat of honor, and elegant curtains were hung about the room. The next day at noon, when the Prime Minister came, Wang Yun greeted him outside in full court attire and stood aside as Dong Zhuo crowded into the hall with his personal guards. Wang Yun then took his place at the lower end of the feast; but seeing this, Dong Zhuo ordered his attendants to conduct Wang Yun a seat by his side.

Wang Yun then said, “The great Prime Minister's abundant virtue is as high as the mountains, so much that the ancient sages of Ye Yin and the Duke of Zhou would be envious.”

Dong Zhuo smiled. The servants then bore in the dishes and the wine, and the music began. Wang Yun plied his guest with flattery and deference. When it grew late and the wine ran low, Dong Zhuo was invited to the inner chamber. And so he dismissed his guards and went.

Here, Wang Yun raised a cup and toasted to Dong Zhuo, saying, “Ever since I was a youth I have been interested in signs from the heavens. I read from the stars that the days of Han are numbered, and that the great Prime Minister's merits command the regard of all the world, as when King Shun succeeded King Yao, and King Yu continued the work of King Shun, all by the strength of their own merits, conforming to the mind of Heaven and the desire of people.”

“What have I done to deserve such honors?” asked Dong Zhuo.

“Ever since the early days of the Xia, those who lack virtue have fallen before those who possess it. Can one escape fate?”

“If indeed what you say is true, and I am to ascend the throne, then you shall be given the highest offices and titles in the realm!” said Dong Zhuo.

Wang Yun bowed his head again. Then lights were brought in and all the attendants were dismissed, save the serving maids to hand the wine. Presently Wang Yun said, “The music of everyday musicians is too common for noble men like us, but I happen to have a little girl in my household who happens to be talented in song and dance, and perhaps she can entertain us.”

“Excellent!” replied Dong.

At Wang Yun's gesture, a curtain was lowered. The shrill tones of reed instruments rang through the room, and presently some attendants led forward Diaochan, who then began a dance.

When the dance ended, Dong Zhuo requested to the attendants that she be brought in, and she came, bowing low as she approached him. He was much taken with her beauty and modest grace.

“Who is she?” asked Dong Zhuo. He stared at intently, gazing at the woman.

“She is my adopted daughter; her name is Diaochan.

“Can she sing?”

Wang Yun then gestured for Diaochan to sing, and she did so to the accompaniment of the lute.

Dong Zhuo was delighted and praised her skills and beauty warmly. Diaochan was then told to present a goblet of wine to the Prime Minister, whom happily accepted it. Intrigued by the woman, Dong Zhuo asked Diaochan her age.

She replied, “Your exellency, this unworthy lady is twenty−one.”

Then Wang Yun rose and said, “If the Prime Minister would not mind, I have been wanting to enter her into the Imperial court. It is for this reason that I have asked you to come here today, for it is a favor that only you can grant. She could perhaps be of use to you, your excellency."

Dong Zhuo laughed, and patted Wang Yun on the shoulder. “This is no favor that you have asked of me. It's the opposite. How could I be grateful enough for such a kindness!”

“Of course, your excellency. She would be most fortunate if she could be your servant.” said Wang Yun.

Dong Zhuo thanked his host warmly, and happily accepted the offer. Wang Yun, now knowing that his scheme was set in place, then gave the order to prepare a closed carriage to convey Diaochan to Meiwo palace.

Above: Diaochan enters the court.

******************

*Tianxia, or All Under Heaven, was used as a contemporary reference to China in this period.

*I have decided to spoiler the story of Lu Bu and Dong Zhuo meeting Diaochan since it can be a bit long. I've translated it from the Chinese text of Romance of the Three Kingdoms, and since the event in-game follows the story, I have followed the plot of Romance pretty consistently. Interesting events are soon to occur.

******************

Some stuff for record-keeping

Current Population, End of Chapter 3: 236,000
Dong Zhuo's Army Size, End of Chapter 3: 27,000
Current Ruler, End of Chapter 3: Dong Zhuo (189 - )
Current Year: 192AD

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**ZhongBoy** · June 26, 2019, 08:13 PM

Chapter 4: Yuan Shu Invades Sili Province

******************

The news that a new lady named Diaochan had gone to the court in Meiwo palace stunned Lu Bu, whom had believed that he had been promised her hand in marriage by Wang Yun. Having completed his mission and destroyed the rebels near Mount Hua, he rode ahead of his army towards Chang'an and waited outside Wang Yun's residence for the entire night. As Wang Yun left to attend the morning court session, Lu Bu angrily seized him by the sleeve and said: "You promised Diaochan's hand in marriage to me, and while I was on campaign I have heard that she has gone to the Prime Minister. What sort of treachery is this?"

Wang Yun quickly glanced behind his shoulder. Then he hushed Lu Bu. "This is no place to speak. Come with me inside, I must tell you of something."

After leading Lu Bu to a private room inside, Wang Yun spoke. "There are some things you do not know. Some days ago when I was at court, the Prime Minister told me he wished to speak to me, and asked if he could come over for dinner. So naturally I prepared a feast for his coming, and while we ate he said, 'I have heard something of a girl named Diaochan whom you've promised to my son. I thought it was mere rumor, so I wanted to ask if it was true. Besides, if she is to be my daughter-in-law, I would very much like to see her.' I could not say no, so she came in and introduced herself to your father. Then he said that it was a fortunate day and he would take her away with him and betroth her to you personally. When the Prime Minister makes such a request, who could stop him?”

Lu Bu thanked him and went away. Next he rushed to Meiwo palace to search for Diaochan, but could find nothing. Then he crept his way to his fathers quarters and questioned the maids, where he learned that Dong Zhuo had recently taken a new concubine, and that his father had yet to wake for the morning court. Creeping into Dong Zhuo's chambers, he was greeted by the shape of Diaochan behind one of the silk curtains. As he watched her, Dong Zhuo stirred and awoke. Seeing Lu Bu standing at the entrance, he stood up and greeted him.

"Fengxian, you look troubled. Tell me, what's on your mind?" said Dong Zhuo.

Above: Casualty reports from the Second Luoyang Trade Port Revolt

"Nothing, father. I have brought news of victory. Zhang Liao, Cai Yong, and my forces surprised the rebel encampment near Mount Hua. We captured their leader, Yuan Xu, and brought you his head. I have returned to report that Sili province has been pacified." As he spoke to Dong, Lu Bu glanced to the edge of the room, where he noticed a woman behind the curtain looking at him. His thoughts immediately turned to Diaochan once more.

"Excellent! Excellent! Truly, nothing under heaven can match your talent" Dong replied. He then noticed that Lu Bu was looking at something over his shoulder and began to feel suspicious.

"If there is nothing more, then you may go." Nodding, Lu Bu sulkily withdrew.

Over the next few weeks, Lu Bu continued to attempt to meet Diaochan, only to be rebuffed as Dong Zhuo rarely allowed her to leave his side. These attempts only aroused further suspicion from Dong Zhuo, who then directed that he be deployed again to defend Sili province against the coalition and the rebels. Lu Bu accepted these orders, hoping that the time spent away from the capital on campaign would take his mind off of his secret dispute with Dong. Dong Zhuo, for his part, began to neglect all matters of state. Devoting himself entirely to his new mistress, he remained in Meiwo for the latter half of the year, only emerging for the most urgent of ceremonies. As Dong Zhuo grew more fond of Diaochan, Lu Bu began to grow more and more resentful towards his adopted father for stealing his bride.

From the perspective of the Imperial government, there were greater issues to be had than a simple spat over a concubine. The Yellow Turban rebellion, although defeated and landless, made several more unsuccessful uprisings during the fall and winter of 192AD in Anding Commandery and even in the outskirts of Chang'an itself. The third Anding rebellion was defeated handily outside the city walls after the garrison sallied, and the two rebel chieftains of Zhi Qian and Guan Weibo were been captured and executed.

Above: Initial strength report for the Second Anding Revolt

Spoiler for Third Anding Revolt:

Above: Casualty report for the Second Anding Revolt

With administration turned over to the more pragmatic Li Ru and Jia Xu, several reforms were made. The Five Punishments were codified in law to curb corruption, and the Commission of Passage was established to standardize logistics over the vast distances in Sili and Liang provinces. With these reforms, the Imperial government began to stabilize itself, and the famine that had affected the harvests of the previous two years was brought to an end. Furthermore, the last, and greatest revolt was defeated outside the walls of Chang'an itself by the arrival of Guo Si's army that spring. Ti Fu and Deng Lu, both cunning bandit leaders and Yellow Turban chiefs, were captured and executed, thus bringing a close to over two years of internal rebellion and bringing stability to the people of Liang province. Tens of thousands had died, but bit by bit, the realm would recover.

Above: The new reforms of 192AD served to resolve the issues that had plagued the Imperial government for the past century

Spoiler for Chang'an Revolt:

Above: Casualty report for the Chang'an revolt

On the diplomatic front, the Dong regime made several significant gains. Jia Xu successfully petitioned the warlord Cao Cao for a peace treaty seperate from Yuan Shao, thereby freeing up some of the pressure on Sili province and weakening the ties between Yuan Shao and Cao Cao (Mengde)*. The warlord Zhang Yang and Liu Dai also sent messengers asking for peace, and whereas Dong Zhuo would've likely inflicted a number of tortures upon these envoys in the past, Jia Xu simply accepted their terms of status quo ante bellum and sent them on their way.

Above: The diplomatic situation of Dong Zhuo in early 193AD. Peace has been made with Zhang Yang, Cao Cao, and Liu Dai, but the warlords in the northeast and Yuan Shu continue to be threats.

******************

With the momentum of negotiated peace, the year 193AD began uneventfully. While Lu Bu tended to his defensive position near Mount Hua and occasionally returned to Chang'an to meet with Dong Zhuo (And catch glimpses of Diaochan), Guo Si moved to Hanzhong Commandery to defend the western frontier from Gong Du, the notorious Yellow Turban warlord whom had dealt a crushing defeat to Ma Teng that winter. As the summer drew to a close and the farmers began to harvest, however, messengers from Sili province reported that Yuan Shu had raised a host of 30,000 men and was moving eastward with the intent to capture Chang'an and seize Emperor Xian for himself. Yang Hong and Yan Xiang, both talented officials serving under Yuan Shu, were leading the vanguard while Yuan Shu himself commanded the main body of troops.

Lu Bu's army happened to be in the capital when the courier arrived, and received Dong Zhuo when he consulted him for a defensive strategy. "They say I am the Warrior Worth One Thousand Men,” said Lu Bu. “Never mind how many there are of them. I am sure that Cai Yong and Zhang Liao will create a plan, so I am not in the least bit anxious. However, I do believe it is better to take the fight to Yuan Shu, than to let him come here.”

With this in mind, Lu Bu, Zhang Liao, and Cai Yong marched with 15,000 men to face Yuan Shu. Commanding the vanguard of eight hundred elite cavalry, Lu Bu made haste and stumbled upon Yuan Shu's men while they were encamped near the ruins of Luoyang. After waiting for the rest of the troops to catch up, he held council with Zhang Liao and Cai Yong.

"The enemy force appears to have twice our number. Therefore, a direct assault during the day is inadvisable, since it will be hard to overcome them. We should take advantage of nightfall to surprise them, and in the darkness their superior numbers will be their weakness. The troops of Yuan Shu are inexperienced and inept, and they will believe that the enemy has come in full-force when in reality, they outnumber us by a wide margin." Seeing that they had no better options, Cai Yong and Zhang Liao both agreed to this plan.

Above: Initial strength reports for the Battle of Luoyang

The battle was opened as the siege machinery of Cai Yong released a rain of stone chunks into Yuan Shu's camp. Next, Lu Bu advanced with his eight hundred horse, and engaged Yang Hong's spearmen on the flank, who had panicked and broken formation. Hundreds of Yuan Shu's troops were cut down as they fled, and the vanguard of Yang Hong left a trail of corpses as they routed from the field. Lu Bu then plunged into Yuan Shu's formation by himself, killing multiple cavalry officers and driving his halberd through the chest of Yan Xiang. Lacking a leader, the main formation soon collapsed into itself. Believing that a much larger force had surrounded them and infiltrated their ranks, entire units began to attack their comrades in the mistaken belief that they were enemy troops.

Above: Lu Bu kills Yan Xiang, Yuan Shu's top strategist and self-declared Inspector of Yang Province

Amidst the panic, Yang Hong attempted to rally the surviving troops, only to be struck down by a Xiliang lancer. The horsemen then continued to pursue the enemy into the forest, hacking down a good number of them. With Yang Hong and Yan Xiang dead, the entire command structure disintegrated as Yuan Shu's entire army fell into rout with Yuan Shu himself fleeing the field on horseback. The army of Cai Yong and Zhang Liao then joined the fray, cutting down as many retreating survivors as they could find.

Above: Lu Bu's cavalry pursues Yuan Shu's fleeing infantry

Having lost two thirds of his army as well as almost all his officers, Yuan Shu rallied his remaining troops to set up a new defensive position some twenty li eastward of Lu Bu. Now with only 9,000 men, Yuan Shu's advisers pleaded with him to consider retreat and to abandon Luoyang, but Yuan Shu, being full of pride and unwilling to be humbled in the face of Dong Zhuo, refused. Lu Bu, on the other hand, was surprised that Yuan Shu's army had folded on itself so easily. In what was perhaps the greatest victory in Lu Bu's life, not one man was lost, and Lu Bu, now seeing the Yuan army with contempt, became even more determined to capture and kill Yuan Shu.

Above: Casualty reports from the Battle of Luoyang

During the second night, Lu Bu's vanguard stealthily advanced to Yuan Shu's new position. Not wanting to wait for his siege artillery or the rest of his army to catch up, Lu Bu ordered a massive charge into the Yuan encampment in the early hours of the morning. Still exhausted from his hasty retreat, Yuan Shu had failed to establish a proper perimeter, and countless men were simply slain as they slept.

Above: Initial strength reports for the Second Battle of Luoyang.

Already demoralized and exhausted from the previous battle, Yuan Shu's troops once more broke in the face of the enemy. As the Xiliang cavalry thundered down upon them, few were able to arm themselves, and even fewer were able to form up. Not that it mattered, for the momentum of the attack was too great to break. A general slaughter soon began as the Xiliang troops quickly overran the remaining Yuan men. Yuan Shu once again was forced to flee, this time without his army. Five thousand men were killed by the surprise assault, and the remaining three thousand scattered to the countryside. The entire Yuan army was no more.

Above: Xiliang troops massacre the remnants of Yuan Shu's army.

With the crushing blow inflicted onto Yuan Shu's forces and almost zero casualties from his army, Lu Bu was eager to push onwards to reclaim Luoyang and to lay siege Yuan Shu's capital at Nanyang. However, despite the decisive victory, Zhang Liao and Cai Yong cajoled Lu Bu to return to the capital to report his victory and to gather more men from Dong Zhuo. "Luoyang is several hundred li away and near the lands of Yuan Shao, whom has an army three times that of Yuan Shu. And even if you do take Luoyang and continue onwards to Nanyang, our supply lines will be stretched thin, with no protection against attack. The results could be disastrous", they argued. Acquiescing to this advice, Lu Bu reluctantly ordered a withdrawal back to Mount Hua. Moving ahead on Red Hare, he arrived at the capital some days later.

Above: Casualty reports from the Second Battle of Luoyang

******************

Spoiler for Dong Zhuo throws the halberd at Lu Bu:

Having ridden to Meiwo palace, he tied up Red Hare at the entrance, and, halberd in hand, went to the private apartments to look for his father. Instead of finding Dong Zhuo, however, he found Diaochan. Once more, his thoughts turned away from military matters and to her. Surprised by Lu Bu's sudden appearance, she told him to go out into the private garden where she would join him soon. He went, taking his halberd with him, and he leaned against the rail of the Phoenix Pavilion to wait for Diaochan. After some time, she appeared, swaying gracefully as she made her way under the drooping willows and parting the flowers as she passed. With tears already in her eyes, she came up to Lu Bu and began to weep as she spoke.

"Although I am not the trueborn daughter of the Minister Wang Yuan, he has adopted me and treated me as his own child. When he pledged to marry us, it was the happiest day of my life. But to think that the wicked Prime Minister would steal me as he did! I have suffered so much from him. I wished to commit suicide to hide the shame, but I could not because then you wouldn't know the truth. So I've lived on, bearing my shame. But now I've seen you for one last time, I can truly end it all. I'm no longer fit to marry you, but I will still prove my loyalty to you!" After finishing, Diaochan seized the rail and attempted to leap into the pond, only to be caught by Lu Bu. Holding her close, Lu Bu began to weep as well.

“I knew it. I always knew that you were true,” he sobbed. “But only we never had a chance to speak.”

Diaochan then hugged Lu Bu tightly.

“If I cannot be your wife in this life, then I swear I will in the next” she said.

Lu Bu frowned. "If I cannot marry you in this life, then I am no hero.” he replied. "Before I met you, Diaochan, I was content to be only a warrior. But having met you, I can no longer say that such things content me. The entirety of all under heaven could be mine, and I could be the Emperor himself, but I would still not be contented until we are together once more. But nevertheless, I have returned to report a great victory to Dong Zhuo, and I fear that the old rebel suspects us. I must not stay too long." He then turned, as if to leave.

Diaochan clung to his arm, pleading, “If you must fear the Prime Minister so much, I shall never see another sunrise.” Lu Bu hestiated, and turned to Diaochan again. “In the deep seclusion of the palace, I heard the stories of your martial prowess; you were the Warrior Without Equal, the Man Worth One Thousand Troops, the Flying General. Little did I think that you of all heroes would rest content under the dominion of a cruel man!" Once more, Diachan began to weep. Shame flooded Lu Bu's face. Leaning his halberd against the railing, he hugged Diaochan, soothing her with words. He no longer wished to leave; for him, nothing in the world mattered more than Diaochan.

In the meantime Dong Zhuo had been informed that Lu Bu had returned to Chang'an with news, and wishing to greet him, he took leave of the Emperor and his court and returned to his palace with haste. At the gate he found Red Hare tied to a post, riderless. Questioning the guards, he soon learned that Lu Bu was already within the palace. He then sent away his servants and proceeded alone to the private apartments. Lu Bu was not there. He then called Diaochan, but heard no reply. Asking a maid where she was, he soon learned that she had gone to the gardens with a guest. Dong Zhuo then went into the garden, and there he saw his adopted son and his concubine embracing each other, with Lu Bu's halberd leaning on the railing beside him.

"Unfilial son! Unfilial son! How dare you do this to me!", Dong Zhuo bellowed in rage. Lu Bu turned, saw who it was, and quickly ran away. Grabbing Lu Bu's halberd, Dong Zhuo ran in pursuit while continuing to yell at Lu Bu. But Lu Bu was a warrior in his prime while the constant feasts and drinking had taken a toll on Dong Zhuo's fitness. Seeing no hope of catching the runaway, Dong Zhuo hurled the halberd. Lu Bu easily dodged the object and continued to run. Picking it up, Dong Zhuo continued in his pursuit. But by this time Lu Bu was far ahead, and there was no hope of catching him. Just as Dong Zhuo was running out at the garden gate, he crashed into another man running in. The other man was no other than one of Dong Zhuo's most trusty advisors, Li Ru. Li Ru had not fallen, and at once scrambled to help Dong Zhuo to his feet and led him to the library, where they sat down.

“What brings you here?” asked Dong Zhuo.

"Your excellency, I happened to come to report that Lu Bu's army had crushed Yuan Shu's force to a man, and had heard from an attendant that you had gone into your private garden to meet with your adopted son. Then suddenly, Lu Bu comes running by and cries out that you wanted to kill him, and I was coming in as fast as I could to try to understand the situation when I accidentally collided with you. I am the most sorry, and will accept any punishment you have for me."

“The unfilial son! How could I deal with seeing him toying with my own concubines! I will have severely punished, if not put to death!” replied Dong Zhuo, still irate.

“Your excellency, if I may advise you. To punish Lu Bu is to make a severe mistake. It is just like the 'plucked tassel' story. During a banquet thrown by King Zhaung of Chu, he made no fuss over the liberties taken with his queen, even though the tassels betrayed her secret affair with the general Jiang Xiong. This restraint paid off, for the same Jiang Xiong saved his life and his kingdom over and over from the armies of Qin. Diaochan may be your beloved, but she is only a woman. Lu Bu, on the other hand, is your adopted son and heir, and he is also your most capable commander and has recently delivered to you a massive victory over the coalition. If you were to give Diaochan up to him, you would win his undying gratitude, and he will destroy for you the remaining coalition warlords. I beg you, your excellency, to think it over.

Dong Zhuo hesitated a long time as he sat murmuring to himself. After some time in deep thought, he replied “What you say is right. I will not punish Lu Bu, and will consider giving him Diaochan."

Satisfied, Li Ru took leave of the Prime Minister and went away. Returning to his private chambers, Dong Zhuo then had the attendants call Diaochan in. “What were you doing with Lu Bu?” he asked.

Diaochan began to weep, saying, “Your concubine was in the garden among the flowers, when he rushed in on me. I was frightened by him and ran away. He asked why I ran away from the son and heir of the family and pursued me right to the pavilion, where you saw us. He had that halberd in his hand all the time. I felt he was a vicious man and would force me to his will, so I tried to throw myself into the lily pond, but he caught me in his arms and held me so that I was helpless. Luckily just at that moment you came and saved my life.”

“Suppose I send you to him,” Dong Zhuo asked.

Diaochan looked at him, stunned. She resumed her weeping. "What has your concubine done to anger you? It is a great honor to serve you, and your concubine could not stand being given to a mere subordinate, especially a brute such as Lu Bu! I would rather die." And with this, Diaochan seized a dagger and pointed it at her throat. Plucking the dagger from her hand, Dong Zhuo embraced her and laughed.

"I was only joking." he said, trying to console her. Diaochan continued to sob.

"This is Li Ru's doing." she continued. "He is in cahoots with Lu Bu, and wants me to go to him. I know that he suggested that you send me away to your underlings. He cares not for your reputation. Oh, how much I despise that man. Though you love me yet I must not stay here. That Lu Bu will try to ruin me if I do. I fear him.”

Dong Zhuo stroked his beard. After a moments hesitation, he comforted Diaochan. “We will go to Meiwo tomorrow, you and I, and we will be happy together and have no cares. I shall make you my wife, and every want of yours shall be seen to and taken care of.” With these words, Diaochan dried her tears and thanked Dong Zhuo.

The next day Li Ru, came again to ask Dong Zhuo if he had made up his mind. When Dong Zhuo replied that he did, and that he had decided to keep Diaochan for himself despite knowing Lu Bu's desires, Li Ru attempted once more to persuade Dong Zhuo to send Diaochan to Lu Bu.

“He and I standing in the relation of father and son. You know that I cannot send him my one of my own ladies,” said Dong Zhuo. “But I will not punish him for the incident in the garden, and am willing to put whatever he has done behind us and pretend as if it never happened. You may inform him of this, and try to alleviate whatever concerns he has as much as you can."

“You are not being manipulated by that woman, are you?” said Li Ru.

Dong Zhuo's face turned red. Furious at the accusation, he shot back at Li Ru, “Would you, too, like to give your wife to somebody else? Do not question my decision on about this any further. Whatever I have chosen, it is final. She is to stay with me, and I will make her my wife.

Bowing his head in acknowledgement, Li Ru left the chamber. When he got outside, he cast his eyes up to heaven in frustration, crying, “We are all dead men, all slain by the hand of this woman!”

Above: Dong Zhuo marries Diaochan to make the situation clear to Lu Bu

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*Without saying, the fact I took zero casualties at the Battle of Luoyang while on Legendary difficulty probably surprises me as much as it does you.

*Mengde is the familiar name for Cao Cao, used by his friends and close associates, much like Fengxiang for Lu Bu.

******************

Some stuff for record-keeping

Current Population, End of Chapter 4: 286,000
Dong Zhuo's Army Size, End of Chapter 4: 27,000
Current Ruler, End of Chapter 4: Dong Zhuo (189 - )
Current Year: 193AD

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**ZhongBoy** · June 26, 2019, 08:32 PM

Chapter 5: The Coup of Wang Yun: Cai Yong Becomes Prime Minister

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Li Ru's advice was not entirely lost. Hoping to appease Lu Bu and reassure him without giving up Diaochan, Dong Zhuo promoted his son to General Who Pacifies The East and accepted his request of more troops, granting him command of an additional four units of Xiliang cavalry with four hundred men per unit. Dong Zhuo also directed that the Emperor issue an edict elevating Lu Bu to Commandant of the Imperial Horse Guards and making him a Marquis of the Second Rank. He then directed his servants to send Lu Bu several hundred silk bolts as well as a chest containing many pieces of gold. Lu Bu accepted these gifts at face value, but his heart remained with Diaochan and resentment festered in his mind.

Above: Lu Bu's new army, now with more Xiliang cavalry.

Spoiler for Wang Yun plots with Lu Bu:

One evening, Wang Yun found him wandering around the outer Imperial palace in Chang'an. Having come to meet with the Emperor Xian, Wang Yun at first ignored him, but seeing that Lu Bu still lingered after his meeting, Wang Yun spoke.

"Why do you no longer accompany the Prime Minister, General? Although you have been in Chang'an for the past weeks, I have not seen you at court for quite some time, and have grown concerned for your well-being." asked the elderly Minister.

"I have not been well, on account of that daughter of yours. The Prime Minister has fallen in love with her himself, and the thought of that has tormented me for some time, despite the fact that he has decided to reward me. These titles and treasures mean nothing to me, compared to Diaochan."

Wang Yun nodded and paused. Finally, he replied, “Come to my house, and we will talk it over.”

The two officers then retired to Wang Yun's palace. After dismissing his servants and ensuring nobody would hear their conversation, Wang Yun asked Lu Bu to tell him what had occured. Lu Bu informed Wang Yun of the incident in the garden, and how Dong Zhuo had taken Diaochan as his wife despite Wang Yun's earlier promise.

Wang Yun said, “He seems to have corrupted my daughter and stolen your wife. He will be an object of shame and ridicule to the whole world. But those who do not laugh at him will laugh at you and me. However, I am old and powerless and can do nothing. The world will see me as more of an object of pity than blame. But you, General, you are a warrior, the greatest hero in the world, and yet you have been put to this shame and exposed to this contempt.”

A wave of fierce wrath rolled up in Lu Bu and he slammed his fists onto the table. His host ostentatiously tried to calm him, saying, “My apologies, General. I have spoken too harshly. Do not be so angry.”

“I will kill the wretch, I swear it. In no other way can I wash away my shame.”

Wang Yun hushed Lu Bu. “No, do not say such a thing,” said Wang Yun, “You will bring trouble on my family and I, should Dong Zhuo ever learn of it. And you will bring even greater trouble upon yourself.”

“When one is born great, one cannot be patient for long as a mere subordinate of a lesser man.” replied Lu Bu. “I would not mind killing the old bastard were it not for the fact that we are father and son. I fear to provoke the people, whom will criticize me for being unfilial and being a kinslayer.”

Wang Yun smiled, saying, “Your name is Lu Bu; his is Dong Zhuo. And when he threw that halberd at you, did he see you as a son? He is not your father, even if he claims to be.” Seeing Lu Bu seethe with anger, Wang Yun saw the effect of his words and continued, “It would be a loyal deed to restore the Imperial clan to power, and history would remember your name as a hero among heroes. But if you continue to lend your aid to Dong Zhuo, not only will the Prime Minister continue to use you and keep Diaochan to himself, but your name will be seen as one of contempt. I am not urging you to any decision, but merely stating the facts.”

Lu Bu rose from his place and bowed to Wang Yun. “And so, I have decided,” said he. “You need not fear. I, Fengxian, will make the right choice.” Drawing his sword, Lu Bu cut a gash into his hand and swore by his own blood that he would have his utmost loyalty to the Imperial clan of Han. Sensing his sincerity, Wang Yun fell on his knees and thanked him. The plot was now set, and the days of the tyrant were numbered, whether he knew it or not.

Despite Yuan Shu's crushing defeat at the Battle of Luoyang, Dong Zhuo still remained suspicious of possible internal elements that supported the Yuan brothers, namely, their family members within the Imperial court. Although the members of the Yuan clan that remained with the Imperial court had little influence and were few of number after their initial purge by Dong Zhuo in 190AD, Dong Zhuo still believed them to be a possible threat, and ordered that they be imprisoned. Despite the protests of his ministers, many of whom still saw the Yuan family as what they were - a family built around generations of civil service to the previous Emperors of the Han - Dong Zhuo was adamant, and seized whatever remained of their estates and arrested their owners.

Above: The Yuan family is imprisoned

Many of those whom had been imprisoned for their familial connections to the Yuan brothers were soon strangled in their cells, thus forever ending the connection the Yuans had to the Imperial government - and any desire in both Yuan brothers for peace.

******************

As the leaves yellowed during the fall of 194AD, Wang Yun requested an audience with Dong Zhuo. This request was accepted, and after being announced that he had brought a letter from Emperor Xian, he was led into Dong Zhuo's private study. After the two exchanged polite greetings, Dong Zhuo asked Wang Yun to read out the contents of the letter.

“Your excellency. His Majesty, although young, is wise. He has realized that you, Dong Zhuo, have done much for the realm, and that it is only under your wise leadership that the realm can return to a state of peace and prosperity. Therefore, he wishes to consider abdication in your favor, on the condition that you guarantee the safety of him and his family, allow him a fief ot 1,000 households as a Duke, and provide for his clan in perpetuity. He states that if you are interested in his offer, that you are to answer the summons to Chang'an to discuss this matter with the court." Dong Zhuo looked at him in surprise.

“I did not expect such fortune! I shall accept the will of heaven and take the offer of Emperor Xian. What he asks of me is a small favor compared to the rule of the empire. And what do you, Minister Wang, think of this?” Wang Yun simply bowed.

"Your excellency, if you are to ascend to the throne, then I shall be the first to support you."

Dong Zhuo smiled. "Good! Good! And I shall make you the first among the Ministers, and you will be held in the greatest esteem by all in the days to come. Now come with me to the Imperial palace, I wish to answer the summons."

"Very well, your excellency." Dong Zhuo then left Meiwo for the Imperial palace in Chang'an. As he arrived, he found the countless officials of the realm ready to receive him, all but Li Ru who was ill and unable to leave his chamber. He entered the palace and was greeted by Lu Bu, who had come to congratulate him on his future ascension to the throne. Dong Zhuo, having forgotten about the incident in the garden and Lu Bu's advances towards Diaochan, greeted his son warmly.

"The moment I ascend the throne, I shall make you the crown prince of the new dynasty, and the entire Imperial army will be yours to command, horse and foot. Together, we will rule a empire even greater than that of the Han." he said.

That night, after a celebratory feast thrown for him by the officers of the city, Dong Zhuo slept in the grandeur of the Imperial palace. In the suburbs that evening some of the children were playing, and the ominous song they sang drifted into the bedchambers and startled Dong Zhuo.

“The grass in the meadow looks fresh now and green, yet wait but ten days, not a blade will be seen.”

The next morning, Dong Zhuo asked the chief officer of his bodyguard, Li Su, what the song meant. Li Su, who had agreed to participate in the plot in exchange for a marquisate a month earlier, quickly dismissed the idea of future trouble and explained to Dong Zhuo that it was a good omen. “Your excellency, the grass in the meadow refers to the Liu clan, whom are about to have their power and influence over the realm disappear. Once this happens, the Dong clan will be exalted and held in esteem throughout the realm for generations."

Accepting the explanation of Li Su, Dong Zhuo prepared for his appearance at court. On the way to meet the Emperor, he saw a monk, dressed in white mourning robes, who carried in his hand a tall staff with a long strip of white cloth attached. At each end of the cloth was drawn a mouth, forming, forming the characters for Lu Bu. “Who is this man, and what is the meaning of this?” asked Dong Zhuo.

“He is a madman,” replied Li Su, and he told the guards to drive the fellow away. Dong Zhuo then went towards the Hall of Everlasting Justice and found all the officials in court dress lining the path. Li Su and a company of one hundred guards solemnly walked beside his carriage, a sword in his hand. When this procession reached the north gate of the Palace, Li Su ordered that the soldiers of Dong Zhuo to wait outside and explained that only the pushers of the palace carriage and himself, a group of twenty or so, were allowed to proceed further. As the carriage arrived near the Reception Hall, Dong Zhuo saw that Wang Yun and all the other officials standing at the door were armed with swords.

“Why are they all armed?” sasked Dong Zhuo to Li Su.

Li Su was silent as he helped push the carriage forward swiftly to the entrance. Tension loomed as Dong Zhuo stepped out of the carriage and proceeded up the steps. A thick silence permeated the air, and Dong Zhuo began to feel that something was terribly, terribly, wrong. Suddenly Wang Yun broke the silence, and shouted, “The Emperor Xian has issued an edict! Dong Zhuo is a traitor to the Han, and a usurper of the throne! All those who are loyal to the Empire, go kill Dong Zhuo!”

At this call, the ministers and guards from both sides rushed at Dong Zhuo. In his hubris, he had not put on the breastplate that he had usually worn, and a blade cut through his chest. Fleeing down the steps, he began shouting loudly for his son. "Where is Fengxian? Where is Fengxian? Fengxian, save me!"

“I am here, father, and I have come to kill the rebel.” said Lu Bu, whom appeared in front of Dong Zhuo. Finishing his words, he thrust his halberd into Dong Zhuo's stomach. Then Li Su hacked off the head and held it up for the ministers to see. Lu Bu, his left hand still holding his halberd, took out a scroll from behind his breastplate and began to read it's contents.

"Dong Zhuo was a traitor of the realm, and has now met his just end. All others will be spared!"

The ministers, weeping with joy, fell to their knees and shouted towards heaven. "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Han!!"

Above: Dong Zhuo is killed by Lu Bu

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With bloodlust awakened, a general purge began of all the officials loyal to Dong Zhuo who were in Chang'an. Li Ru, who had been a close advisor of Dong Zhuo, was beaten by his household servants and tied up. After being dragged out to the marketplace, he was arrested, charged with the murders of Emperor Shao and Empress Dowager He, and, after a short trial for which he was found guilty, swiftly executed in front of the crowd. The head of Dong Zhuo was hung from the gates of Chang'an, and his body was cremated in a public square to the cheers of onlookers. Passers-by pelted the severed head with stones, rejoicing at the death of the tyrant.

Meanwhile in Hanzhong, Li Jue, Guo Si, and Niu Fu learned of Dong Zhuo's fate. As Dong Zhuo's senior officers, they knew that the retribution of Wang Yun would soon come, and so they took their troops, abandoned their positions, and fled into the night.

Wang Yun, who now was the de facto Prime Minister and controller of the Han government, then ordered a force of Lu Bu's army, a force of now sixteen thousand, to raze Meiwo palace to the ground. Upon arriving at Meiwo, Lu Bu immediately sought out Diaochan and took her into his care. Then a general slaughter of the Dong clan ensued, and blood flowed from every corner as Dong Zhuo's family and whichever guards had remained loyal to him were all killed. After accomplishing this gruesome task, Lu Bu ordered that Meiwo be razed, and that the ground be salted as a reminder of Dong's tyranny. Furthermore, hundreds of women whom Dong had taken into his personal harem were set free and allowed to return to Chang'an. The granaries of Meiwo were opened to the public, and the wealth confisticated was enormous; almost five years worth of Imperial revenue was gained in one night, and millions of silver coins, and uncountable amounts pearls, gems, silks, velvet, and fur were removed to the Imperial palace.

Above: Lu Bu marries Diaochan

After Lu Bu returned to report his success at Meiwo, Wang Yun rewarded and feasted his troops. A wedding banquet for Lu Bu and Diaochan was then hastily held in the Imperial palace, and all the officials were invited to pay their respects to the new couple. During the feast, they drank and congratulated each other, and for the first time in years, a sense of optimism was held by all the court officers. While the feasting was in progress it was announced that someone had come and was wailing over Dong Zhuo's corpse exposed in the market place.

“The tyrant is dead,” said Wang Yun, angrily. “Every body is glad to be rid of him, and yet still someone is found to lament over him. Who is this?” Wang Yun then gave orders to arrest the man and to bring him in. As soon as this was done, all who saw him were startled; for this was no other than the Left General of the Household and Imperial Historian Cai Yong, whom was now perhaps the third most powerful official in the realm, besides Lu Bu and Wang Yun.

Wang Yun spoke to Cai Yong angrily, “Dong Zhuo has been put to death as a rebel, and all the land rejoices. You, a Han minister, instead of rejoicing, instead weep for him. Why?”

Cai Yong bowed to Wang Yun and confessed his fault, saying, “You are correct in that Dong Zhuo was a rebel, and that I should rejoice. I regret that I have turnt my back towards the Emperor and the land, and towards the tyrant. However, I once experienced his kindness, and Dong Zhuo had given me many favors, and so I could not help but mourn for him, at least for a little. I understand that the penalty for this act is death, and if you will leave my head and only cut off my feet, you may use me to continue the History of the Han, whereby I may have the good fortune to atone for my action.”

All present felt sympathy for the Minister Cai Yong, for he was a man of great talents, and they begged that he be spared. Lu Bu, now the de facto commandant of the Imperial army and highest ranking military officer in the realm, secretly interceded for him, saying, “I have served alongside Cai Yong for three years, and he is a man of great scholarly talent. I believe his words when he said that it was a mistake, and to show mercy towards him would be advisable, for he still holds great repute and has many friends in court. You should not put a man of his renown to death without consideration.”

Lu Bu's plea fell on deaf ears, for Wang Yun had grown arrogant from his victory over Dong Zhuo and believed that only he could restore the Han to it's former glory. After listening to Lu Bu's words, Wang Yun simply said, “Centuries ago, the Emperor Wu spared Sima Qian and continued to employ him even when the latter had rightfully brought punishment until himself, which resulted in many slanderous histories being handed down to us. In this trying time, we should dare not let someone like him, no matter of how great repute or his reason for mourning the traitor, be able to wield his pen to tell our histories to the future. Most certainly, he will slander us and state our abuses towards the youthful Emperor Xian."

With his appeal being in vain, Lu Bu retired back to his quarters to be with Diaochan. But before he left, he warned Wang Yun, "Cai Yong has many friends in court, Minister Wang. You have scored a great victory for the Han. Do not let your pride endanger the victory that you have worked for so long to achieve." Wang Yun simply shook his head and waved for Lu Bu to go.

The next day, Cai Yong, whose only offense was a expression of gratitude for a man who had showed him kindness, was arrested and thrown into prison. Lu Bu's prediction, soon proved correct. When news of Cai Yong's imprisonment was heard by the people of Chang'an, they rioted against the government of Wang Yun, claiming that they had merely "exchanged one tyrant for another". Wang Yun's attempts to negotiate with the angry mob was met with scorn, and they demanded nothing less than the total release and pardon of Cai Yong, something that Wang Yun refused to grant. Finally, Wang Yun, furious at being challenged on the subject, announced that Cai Yong was guilty of treason for his crime of mourning Dong Zhuo, and was to be put to death.

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Spoiler for Zhi Yue begins to plot against Wang Yun:

Zhi Yue, commander of the city garrison of Chang'an, was a strong admirer of Cai Yong. Cai Yong was not only a renowned poet and scholar, but he had personally aided him in securing his appointment under the administration of Dong Zhuo. Had it not been for his aid, Zhi Yue would have remained a lowly junior officer, in charge of guarding the eastern city gate from brigands and thieves and other persons of ill repute. He was, after all, only the son of a blacksmith, and because of that the sons of other noblemen were deemed to be more fit for the position he held now. Or at least, that's what his opponents had tried to argue, but Cai Yong, as a minister of high rank, held the final say. But now with his benefactor in prison and sentenced to execution, Zhi Yue could not rest easily - something had to be done.

One of the guards rushed in. "Sir! Lu Bu is here to see you." Zhi Yue nodded in acknowledgement.

"Send him in." Having been one of the main defectors from Dong Zhuo and one of the greatest military commanders of the realm, Lu Bu was unsurprisingly given the post of commanding the Imperial army. Lu Bu was also in the position of having a close relationship with both Wang Yun and Cai Yong. Wang Yun was his father-in-law, while Cai Yong had served alongside him at the Battle of Luoyang, where he had crushed the forces of Yuan Shu.

Lu Bu immediately spoke. "I will be frank with you. I have attempted to reason with Prime Minister Wang Yun. He has grown stubborn, believing that only he can save the Han. I suggest that you, as commander of the city, speak some reason into him."

"If even you, his son-in-law, cannot speak reason to Wang Yun, then it is hopeless." Zhi Yue slumped back into his chair. Lu Bu was perhaps the best hope of resolving Cai Yong's imprisonment in a diplomatic manner, and with that no longer an option, he would have to resort to other means. But Wang Yun's loyalty to the Han was unquestionable, and to remove him would endanger the Han.

"I do not think so, but whatever the case, Cai Yong must not die. You must do what you must." Both men looked at each other. Silence hung in the air. Then, as if they had come to an understanding, they shook hands, and Lu Bu went off into the night.

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The day before Cai Yong's sentence was to be carried out, the officer Zhi Yue requested a presence in the Imperial court. When it was granted, he snuck several hundred of his loyal men into the palace complex, and while court was in session, his men burst into the Hall of Everlasting Justice. Wang Yun, angry that Zhi Yue had planned such treachery, ordered his own guards to remove Zhi Yue and his subordinates from the palace, and stripped Zhi Yue of all his titles and offices. It was the last edict he made, for he was soon cut down by Zhi Yue's men. Chaos once more filled the Imperial household, and as the factions battled within the palace, the people began to riot. Order was not restored for one week, and by then, the atmosphere of optimism that had come with the death was Dong Zhuo was replaced with one of dread and uncertainty.

The sudden death of Wang Yun in a palace coup was the second shock to the realm. With the deaths of two Prime Ministers in less than a week, the Imperial government fell into a upheaval. Cai Yong, having the loyalty of the Imperial army and the coup conspirators, was the obvious choice to succeed them. Within a day, he was released from prison and named the new Prime Minister of the Han, and the ruling regent of the still-young Emperor Xian.

His first act was to pardon Zhi Yue, and to promote Zhang Liao to General of the Vanguard. Lu Bu was promoted to Marquis of the First Rank and granted the title Marquis of Wen. In order to appease the other factions within the court, the late Wang Yun was enoeffed as the Prince of Yu. After these promotions and the appropiate ceremonies, Cai Yong then dispatched envoys to the coalition warlords, requesting peace and informing them of the death of Dong Zhuo. With half of his forces already missing and under the control of the rogue generals Niu Fu, Guo Si, and Li Jue, and the Imperial government in chaos from the sudden death of Wang Yun, a brief respite was desperately needed to consolidate themselves.

Above: The situation in court, 194AD. Almost all major officials are now dead or missing, save Lu Bu, Zhang Liao, Zhi Yue, and Cai Yong.

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Some stuff for record-keeping

Current Population, End of Chapter 5: 310,000
Cai Yong's Army Size, End of Chapter 5: 16,000
Current Ruler, End of Chapter 5: Cai Yong (194 - )
Current Year: 194AD

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**ZhongBoy** · June 29, 2019, 08:57 PM

Chapter 6: The Emperor Flees In Exile To Youbeiping

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The three generals - Li Jue, Guo Si, and Niu Fu - whom Dong Zhuo had ordered to guard Hanzhong Commandery had fled to the countryside when news of Dong Zhuo's death left the capital. There, they set up their base and awaited for further news. Upon hearing that the Prime Minister Wang Yun had been deposed in a coup and that the Imperial army was now in disarray, they sent messengers to Cai Yong, entreating that they be given a pardon and be reinstated into their old positions.

"These three men were the chief instruments of Dong Zhuo's oppression of the people. Although I am willing to issue a pardon for their crimes, given that I have instituted a policy of general amnesty, they should no longer be allowed to hold their posts in the Imperial army." was Cai Yong's reply.

The messenger returned and told the four that although they had been pardoned, they would no longer hold any office and would have to disband their troops. Niu Fu and Li Jue wanted to take the offer, but then Guo Si said, "Are you both not blind to the situation? If we disband our army, then we will fall as easy victims to Cai Yong's forces, whom can do to us as they wish. Cai Yong has no intention of letting us go, especially with that brute Lu Bu serving as the commandant. Rather, let us offer to combine our forces with the rebels that we have fought and cajole the people of Liang province to throw in their lot with us. Cai Yong will likely send Lu Bu away on campaign, after which we may strike and seize the capital. If we fail, then we will still have enough time to flee, and what difference does it make to the situation? At least if we flee, we will flee with our forces, and then we may find ourselves in the service of another lord."

The plan was adopted, and they sent letters to the rebel leaders, informing them that they wished to defect their army over to their side. The rebel chieftains quickly accepted, and after cajoling the local people to join them, the three generals had a combined force of forty thousand men. This horde was divided into two parts, with the greater part being sent to lay siege to Anding while the lesser seized the settlements in Hanzhong. The magistrates, already in confusion and with their requests for aid unanswered, quickly surrendered. The offensive of the rebels continued through the winter as a prodigious blizzard sealed off the main roads from the capital, hampering any attempt to relieve the outlying counties. By spring, both Hanzhong and Anding were lost.

Above: Anding and Hanzhong are lost to the rebels.

After consulting with the Imperial court, Cai Yong sent an ambassador to Yuan Shao, the most powerful of the coalition lords. In his letter, he awarded Yuan Shao with the title of "General Commandant of the Realm", and explained that Dong Zhuo had been slain by loyal servants of the Emperor. He then requested two favors from Yuan Shao in the name of Emperor Xian; one, for reinforcements to deal with the rebels in Liang province; two, to allow Zhang Liao to lead 3,000 troops to garrison Henei in order to re-establish Imperial control over taxation of the trade routes on the Yellow River.

Yuan Shao's reply was one of magnanimous splendor. He announced that he was willing to give up Ji province as the Imperial crownlands so that the state administration may re-establish itself with it's revenues, that he would allow the Imperial army to garrison itself in his towns, and that he gladly provide funds and labor for the Emperor and his court to construct their lodging and palaces in Ye city. Having thus received such an offer, Cai Yong praised Yuan Shao, proclaiming him the "savior of the empire", and at once urged the court officials to make ready to move. Dong Cheng, the Director of Chariots and Cavalry, disagreed.

"Chang'an, although tainted by the misrule of Dong Zhuo, still exerts an aura of Imperial power. Ye city is nothing more than a prefecture capital, and moving the court there would most certainly be inappropiate for the Imperial clan. Chang'an was also the capital of the Qin and the Emperors of Han before the usurption of Wang Mang. To move the capital from Luoyang to Chang'an was already a choice that has brought dishonor onto the Han; but to move the capital to Ye? That is unthinkable." he argued.

Other officials were more accepting to the idea. "Ye city is still a prefecture capital, and it is not that bad. Furthermore, to take Ji province for the Emperor would be a boon for our state. Ji province lies upon a fertile plain that is suitable for growing crops, unlike the arid terrain of Liang province. It is defended by the Yellow River to the south and mountains to the west and north. It contains many towns and villages, whose men would most certainly be a great source of recruits to bolster the ranks of the Imperial army. Yuan Shao also has a reputation of honor and maganimity, and to win his friendship is a must if we are to restore the Han. Furthermore, once order has been restored to the realm, we may return the capital to Luoyang." replied Ma Midi, the Imperial Counsellor.

Cai Yong agreed with Ma. Leaving Zhi Yue in charge of the defenses of Chang'an, he then gathered up the Emperor and the treasures of the Imperial household and prepared them for travel. Setting off in late Spring, his procession was joined by the army of Lu Bu and Zhang Liao near Mount Hua. With 17,000 troops as the escort and countless officials, servants, and courtiers, they slowly began their journey towards Ye. All along the way, the children of the court sang and danced, and a auspicious feeling was in the air. By the summer months, the procession had crossed over the Yellow River into Henei Commandery. Although supplies had run low, the men had been given permission to forage from the nearby settlements, whose locals proved more than willing to supply the Emperor and his court with food.

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Leading the van was Lu Bu and Cai Yong with one thousand Xiliang horsemen. When they neared one of the outlying villages in Ye, a sole rider appeared and frantically waved for them to stop. This man was Tian Feng. He had once served as a assistant to the Grand Commandant and was a minor magistrate during the days of Emperor Ling, until the corruption of the eunuchs had disillusioned him. During the days of Dong Zhuo, he had vowed to do all in his power to restore the Han and to save the Emperor, and so had joined Yuan Shao as a adviser. Seeing him approach, Cai Yong ordered the column to halt.

Tian Feng, still mounted, wasted no time with his words. "Prime Minister Cai, Xu You* has convinced Yuan Shao not to give you Ye. However, he still pretends to, for he intends to seize the Emperor as soon as you arrive within the city or during an ambush on the way, and use him as a puppet to bolster his own legitimancy amongst the coalition warlords."

"Is that so? Yuan Shao, that traitorous scum! Lu Bu, send word to Zhang Liao in the rear that we must head return along the road to Henei, for right now we are merely a lambs in a tiger's den!" replied Cai Yong in shock.

Tian Feng waved for Lu Bu to stop. "You must not do that either. Yuan Xi and Yuan Tan have both led 30,000 men to Henei to seal off your escape. If you wish to save the Emperor, then listen hither to my advice, Prime Minister Cai. Proceed north along the road instead of westward to Ye. Yuan Shao has another 30,000 somewhere between Ye and Pingyuan. They intend for all three forces to surround you; and you must not let this happen. Strike first at Yuan Shao's army near Pingyuan, then you will be free to reach the coast. Sail to You province and establish your power there. The land there is rich from industry and commerce, and it is protected by mountains and desert to north and east. The Wuhuan tribes there have also suffered greatly under the thumb of Gongsun Zan, and they will flock to your side if you treat them with kindness. Do this, and you may establish You province as the crownland and strike into Ji, Bing, and Qing provinces."

Cai Yong was filled with gratitude. "Honorable sir, how may I ever repay your kindness? Come join us, and once we take You province then you shall become an official to be held in the highest regard!"

Shaking his head sadly, Tian Feng turned down the offer. "As the saying goes, "A droplet of grace should be repaid with a fountain of gratitude.' Lord Yuan Shao may be indecisive and fatuous, but I am indebted to him for his patronage. Furthermore, I have already served him for many years. Although I wish to see the Emperor restored, I cannot muster the heart to abandon him. Go now, for we all must fulfill our own destinies."

******************

Although he had some doubt in his heart, Cai Yong decided to follow the advice of Tian Feng and ordered the column to proceed with due haste along the route to Pingyuan. Lu Bu rode ahead with three hundred horse to scout for Yuan Shao's forces, while the Imperial army was ordered to be on alert. In order to protect the baggage train, Zhang Liao led another five hundred horse and two thousand infantry, while the remaining troops guarded the the courtiers and the Emperor with Cai Yong. Three days passed as the procession made for the coast without incident. On the fourth day, Lu Bu returned with his vanguard to Cai Yong and delivered a serious report.

32,000 men led by Yuan Shao had encamped near Pingyuan. Although presently unaware of their position, the army of Yuan Shao dwarfed the Imperial forces, and they had built a stockade around their camp. A frontal assault would be devestating, if not outright impossible; but if the enemy was not removed, then they would link up with the other armies close to Henei, and facing such numbers the Emperor was certain to fall into Yuan Shao’s hands. After consulting with his commanders, Cai Yong gave orders to prepare for a nighttime raid.

Above: Initial strength reports for the Battle of Pingyuan

The arrangements for the raid on the Yuan encampment were made with extreme care to ensure success. Cai Yong assigned Zhang Liao to command the main column, while Lu Bu was to be the van leader. Both officers were delegated one thousand and two hundred cavalry. The army raised the banners of Yuan Shao, and set out at dusk. To avoid giving away their position, the men were gagged and the horses were muffled. The siege artillery were covered in hay and disguised as wooden carts to give the appearance of a baggage train. The night was fine and the stars shone brightly as the raiding army marched through the night. Passing a outlying sentry post some li from their objective, they were challenged, and Lu Bu sent a sentry forth to say "Yuan Shao has ordered Yan Liang to bring his men to Pingyuan."

Above: The initial formation of the Imperial army

Seeing that the troops marched under the ensigns of Yuan Shao, the guard had no suspicions and let them pass. Reaching the base of a group of forested hills that seperated them from Yuan Shao's camp, the commanders gave their orders to attack and the men began to fan out into their formations. The hay was removed from the trebuchets, whom were speedily set up. Once this task was done, they unleashed a volley of stone balls into the enemy camp to destroy their defensive towers and to wreak havoc. There was no shelter from the falling stones, and screams of men being crushed by stone echoed from the other side of the hills. Recognizing that Yuan Shao definitely knew that a enemy force was beyond the hill, the troops were deployed into a square formation to fend off a possible cavalry charge while Lu Bu took a small scouting party of horse over the hill.

Above: The heavy infantry charge up the hill

At this time the commander of the camp, Wen Chou, and his companions were all asleep after a heavy bout of drinking. However, when the alarm was given, they sprang up and asked what was the matter. The hubbub was indescribable. Spotting the scouts, Wen Chou ordered several thousand heavy infantry to chase after the enemy. Outnumbered, the scouts retreated back to their lines.

"Your excellency, Yuan Shao has decided to send his heavy infantry forward up the hill. All their remaining forces are being held in reserve." reported Lu Bu.

"Yuan Shao, you bloody oaf. Tian Feng was truly right when he called you the fatuous lord!" laughed Cai Yong.

Zhang Liao then led the archers to advance. As the heavy infantry trudged across the forested hill, they were met with volleys of flaming arrows and took many losses. Lu Bu further harassed their column, striking with impunity at their flanks within sight of the enemy camp. As the enemy soldiers saw their comrades fall before their eyes, their morale began to waver.

Wen Chou, enraged, then rode out with eight hundred horse. Seeing the enemy cavalry emerge over the crest, Zhang Liao had his archers to retreat behind the ranks of the spear infantry. Wen Chou then ordered his men to charge regardless, but to no avail. When his horsemen drew near the spears, they would be cut down, but as they retreated, arrows would rain. After making two attempted charges and losing half his cavalry, Wen Chou ordered a retreat. As he neared the encampment, Lu Bu rode out with his Xiliang cavalry.

"Wen Chou, you dog of Yuan Shao! I've heard from others that you've claimed that you could best me! Come here, coward, and meet your doom!", cried Lu Bu, and with a mighty thrust of his halberd, Wen Chou was no more. With the enemy commander dead, Yuan's troops began to panic. Zhang Liao then ordered two groups of one thousand horsemen each to charge the camp in two different directions. With cavalry crashing in on the right and left flanks, the panic became a rout.

Above: Zhang Liao's horsemen charge into the enemy camp

Befuddled and awoken with the sound of battle in all directions, Yuan Shao stumbled out of his tent to see the carnage. Without waiting to don his armor, he went forth in his simple dress with a ordinary silk cap and mounted his steed to escape from the enemy cavalry. The Xiliang troops gave chase but could not keep up with him, and Yuan Shao and roughly one hundred of his horse guards escaped to Pingyuan city, abandoning all his documents and papers, treasure, baggage, and supplies.

Above: The casualty reports from the Battle of Pingyuan. Not pictured is the deaths of Xu You and Wen Chou.

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It was during the pursuit of this portion of Yuan Shao's army that Lu Bu was informed of a massive force of 60,000 men led by Yuan Tan approaching from across the Yellow River. Realizing the danger, he abandoned the chase, called in his own forces, and returned to Cai Yong to consult.

"What now? Yuan Shao has holed himself up in Pingyuan city, and we will be attacked in our flanks with a burgeoning baggage train if we pursue him," asked Lu Bu.

General Zhang Liao said, "Then perhaps it would be better to come to an agreement to make peace. As the Prime Minister still wishes to follow the advice of Tian Feng, we can be rid of each other and make haste for You province. Yuan Shao has lost a quarter of his forces, and the approaching winter, I believe he would gladly see us go from his lands."

Cai Yong hesitated. Others exhorted him to make peace, and after some persuading length he agreed. With this matter settled, Li Su was sent as a messenger of peace to Yuan Shao, and proposed the terms. “You may return to Prime Minister Cai; I will send my reply within one day,” said Yuan Shao when he received the ambassador. Wasting no further time, Li Su hurried back to Cai Yong.

Yuan Shao held his word, and within a day, one of his officers returned his answer: "Prime Minister Cai, my actions were regrettable and insolent. Allow me to demostrate my remorse by withdrawing my troops from their positions against you, and I will give you the land that you currently hold in Pingyuan Commandery. I shall also make a present of gold and silk brocades to his majesty to express sorrow for whatever grief that my actions has caused him."

Above: Yuan Shao makes peace.

Seeing no other option to avoid doing battle with the Yuan forces closing in from the south, Cai Yong accepted the Yuan Shao’s proposal. He then marched his men for the coast, and after acquiring a massive squadron of one hundred ships, sailed for Youbeiping, which presently was under the administration of the rebel Gongsun Zan. Around forty li from Youbeiping the expedition made landfall, and Cai Yong built a stockade on the coast near the middle of their line. The court officials, their families, and the Emperor was held in this stockade with five hundred men to protect them. Another group of outlying sentry posts were established some ten li from the main stockade, with one hundred men each. With his rear secured, Cai Yong ordered the remaining 16,000 troops to march to Youbeiping and besieged the city.

Above: Cai Yong launches a surprise assault on Youbeiping

Upon seeing the massive siege weapons being put into place around their city, the garrison of Youbeiping, led by their administrator Wei Huizhu, led a sortie to defeat the invaders. This sortie was soon met by a rain of arrows and stone balls thrown into the air. As their comrades were crushed or shot beside them, the morale of the defenders wavered and their momentum was lost. Seeing this happen, Lu Bu ordered four hundred horse to charge the defenders, whom broke formation and raced for the safety of the walls.

Above: The cavalry charge the defenders of Youbeiping as arrows and stone rain down from above

The Xiliang cavalry, following the same tactics, waved in and out of the mass of running troops, cutting down all in their path. With most of the defenders left as lifeless corpses on the field, Wei Huizhou sent a messenger to Cai Yong, offering the surrender of the city in exchange for a guarantee of no further bloodshed. Cai Yong answered affirmatively, and the next morning, the garrison marched out and threw down their weapons. Youbeiping had surrendered.

Above: The capture of Youbeiping

Sending his forces to occupy the city, Cai Yong then threw himself into the task of re-establishing peace and order. The Emperor and his courtiers were sent from their stockade to take up residences in the palaces of Youbeiping, while the former magistrate's office was used as a temporary receiving hall for the Emperor. With the Imperial court now safe, Cai Yong set about improving the city itself, directing a force of one thousand soldiers to work on constructing a wall around the city and improving its defenses through the digging of a moat and dikes. As he labored, his mind did not go to Chang'an and the crownlands on the other end of the empire. Then suddenly appeared a messenger, with urgent news from Zhi Yue, the captain of the garrison of Chang'an.

The identity of this man and the urgent message that he brought will be discussed in the upcoming chapter.

Above: The occupation of Youbeiping during the summer of 196AD.

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Some stuff for record-keeping

Current Population, End of Chapter 6: 213,000
Cai Yong's Army Size, End of Chapter 6: 16,000
Current Ruler, End of Chapter 6: Cai Yong
Current Year: 196AD

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**Alwyn** · June 30, 2019, 10:55 AM

It looks like Cai Yong's forces are of good quality, or that Cai Young is an effective commander, since his army was "evenly matched" against an army of twice the size. The advice of Tian Feng and the halberd of Lu Bu seem to have made decisive contributions to these events. I like the way that you end with the mysterious messenger, this reminds me of the endings of chapters in Romance of the Three Kingdoms.

**ZhongBoy** · June 30, 2019, 08:47 PM

Chapter 7: Gongsun Zan Dies; Liu Yu And Gongsun Du Rebel Against Emperor Xian

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The messenger was an officer from the Chang'an garrison named Duan Wei, and he rode up in haste to report that he had brought a urgent message from Zhi Yue, and had travelled on his way for one month. During his travel he had made for Ji province and had been detained by Yan Liang, only to be released later by the order of Yuan Shao. After his release, he had wandered for some time, before hearing that the Imperial court had been re-established in Youbeiping, to which he rode day and night without rest. Without delay, the officer was ushered into the makeshift reception hall. Bowing to the officials seated before him, he handed his letter to Zhang Liao who read it aloud.

"Chang'an is in imminent danger and has been besieged by a combined army of 50,000 men under Han Sui and Guo Si. The attacking army has breached the western gate, and Zhi Yue reports that he only has enough supplies to sustain fighting for another two weeks. If relief is not sent by that time, then he has no choice but to surrender his forces." Zhang Liao hesitated, realizing the implication. It had been far past two weeks since Duan Wei had departed with the letter. "Your excellency. This message is true, then Chang'an has fallen."

The words hung heavily in the room. Some of the assembled ministers wept, for never before had the Imperial government lost control of the two great ancestral capitals of the realm. Although the strategy of seizing You province meant that the Emperor Xian would be far from these cities, many expected that Zhi Yue would continue to hold. The Prime Minister, however, simply sighed. "Lu Bu has marched north with the bulk of our forces against the remnants of Gongsun Zan in Youzhou Commandery. We only barely have four thousand garrisoning Youbeiping. We cannot spare any men or supplies.

Meanwhile during this time, Lu Bu had marched north to Youzhou. Gongsun Zan, having heard of the surrender of Youbeiping, decided to act on the defensive. He had retreated to the Taihang mountains in the far north and had fortified a old iron mine. Therein he placed twenty thousand carts of grain and had set up his own quarters deep within the earth, as if creating an underground stronghold. As the army of Lu Bu approached, Gongsun Zan had became more withdrawn and erratic, delegating all the tasks of rule and command to his general Zhang Da.

Above: Initial strength reports for the battle for Youzhou iron mine

As soon as the enemy army had shown itself, Zhang Da ordered several formations to sortie. He planned to have his fighting troops pass in and out of the stronghold without ceasing, some going out to give battle, others returning to rest, but to always keep the enemy on alert and exhausted. Three thousand infantry were committed for the first assault, and marched out in formation to greet the enemy. Seeing this, Lu Bu ordered his infantry to withdraw with the intention of giving the enemy the impression that their siege machines were left unprotected. Zhang Da then committed a further five thousand troops to the assault. As they marched forward, Lu Bu led one thousand cavalry to strike at the enemy from the rear, forcing them to flee into the forest. The infantry then stopped their retreat and attacked the enemy, sending a hail of flaming arrows from the sky; the mass of dried autumn leaves on the ground quickly ignited, burning countless soldiers to death.

Above: The forest is ignited.

Realizing that he was trapped, Zhang Da ordered his men to retreat and sent a messenger to Gongsun Zan requesting that he take the remaining five thousand men within the fortress and relieve the beleaguered sortie outside. Gongsun Zan refused and said, "If I rescue Zhang Da and the sortie party, hereafter every soldier will expect me to aid them and will not exert themself to the fullest when fighting the enemy." He sent this reply to Zhang Da, telling him that he would not provide aid and ordering Zhang Da to fight harder.Zhang Da, being loyal to his lord, held his ground, but he and many other men were soon caught in the flames and killed.

Above: Gongsun Zan's men are burnt alive.

Others were not as pleased with his words. The reply disgusted many soldiers, and those whom made it out of the woods surrendered to the enemy. Many of the soldiers within the fortress soon streamed out as well, loudly shouting that they wished to surrender as well. Watching as his soldiers threw down their arms, Gongsun Zan realized all was lost and there would be no escape. He then retreated deep into the subterranean passages of the iron mine with his family and whatever remained of his forces, where the stored grain would last him for years.

Above: Casualty reports from the capture of Youzhou iron mine

In response, Lu Bu ordered that flammable material be thrown into the mine. Several wooden carts were then set ablaze, and pushed through the entrance; surrounded by the material thrown in earlier, they soon created a inferno. Gongsun Zan, realizing that there was no escape, then killed his wife and children and hung himself. The flames destroyed the bodies of the whole family, and thus the White Horse General was vanquished.

Above: Gongsun Zan's faction is destroyed

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While Lu Bu campaigned in Youzhou, two major revolts rose up against the Imperial government in You province. The first revolt was led by Liu Yu, the Inspector of You province and a cousin of Emperor Xian, whom declared himself the new Emperor of the Han. The second revolt was led by Gongsun Du, the General of Military Might, whom controlled Liaoxi Commandery to the far north. Liu Yu then sent 10,000 men to attack Youbeiping to eliminate Emperor Xian and to seize the court officials by force. This army was soon within striking distance of the new capital, and by winter, Youbeiping was surrounded while Lu Bu hurried from Youzhou to lift the siege. Leading a group of one hundred soldiers, Zhang Liao broke through the encirclement and rushed to meet with Lu Bu. He caught him halfway on the road, and after assuring him that his family remained in good health, he told him of a new plan.

Above: Gongsun Du revolts

Zhang Liao said, "You must not return to the capital. Instead, remember the story of how General Sun Bin besieged Wei in order to rescue the Zhao capital? Because it is certain that Liu Yu has sent almost all of his available forces, he has left is own lands undefended. Instead of chasing after him, we should strike at his own seat of power, and it will force him to retreat from Youbeiping. In the meantime, the capital has enough provisions to last for another year, and it's defenders are in good spirits."

Above: Lu Bu marches to attack Liu Yu's seat while Liu Yu besieges the Imperial capital.

Heeding these words, the Imperial army then split into two. A decoy force of nine hundred men was dispatched to march to the capital in order to keep Liu Yu at Youbeiping while the remaining troops mounted a expedition into Youzhou. Lu Bu commanded the van while Zhang Liao led the center, and moving with haste, they came before the defenses of Youzhou within a fortnight. Not wishing to waste time on a siege, Lu Bu ordered the troops to draw up in a battle array and prepare for an frontal assault.

Above: The initial strength report for the siege of Youzhou

The commander of the city garrison, a officer named Yao Rong, saw the enemy formation and their massive siege engines and sallied out to repel them. He had not made it more than thirty paces from the gate when arose a great shouting as if heaven and earth were clashing together, and pots of burning oil crashed into their line. As fire spilled over the defenders, the screams of burning men filled the air as they dropped their weapons and cut off their armor to escape the flames. Several hundred more continued towards the enemy line, only to be struck by volley after volley of burning arrows. Seeing that they could advance no further, Yao Rong fled with the remnants of his command. As they did, the trebuchets began to hurl their flaming pots into the city, setting large swathes of it ablaze.

Above: Youzhou is bombarded.

With the city burning and most of his men dead, Yao Rong surrendered. Zhang Liao then led six thousand infantry into the city where they put out the fires and restored order to the citizenry. Lu Bu then took two thousand cavalry, and spreading his units out over several li, marched eastward to reconnoiter the road against Liu Yu's forces. It was then early winter, and snow was falling from a gloomy sky. They marched regardless, determined to reinforce the Imperial capital.

Above: Casualty reports for the siege of Youzhou

Several hundred li away, Liu Yu had failed to make headway against the defenders of Youbeiping. The city had recently constructed a thick stone wall around it's perimeter, and his attempts to breach it had all ended in failure. On the other hand, the defenders knew the value of delay and simply held on. After a vigorous siege of nearly a month, the fall of Youbeiping seemed as far off as it was when he had surrounded the city, and being winter, supplies for his own army had run extremely short. With his soldiers near starvation, Liu Yu hastily beat a withdrawal back to Youzhou. On the road there, he learned that Youzhou had surrendered to the forces of Cai Yong, and taking a dozen of his finest warriors, he hurried ahead to discern the fate of his city and loved ones. A day into this journey, he encountered a scouting party led by Lu Bu.

"Liu Yu, you traitorous scum!", cried Lu Bu, and he charged Liu Yu with his trident halberd. Liu Yu's men then then rushed out to protect their lord, and after a exchange of several bouts, all were slain. Liu Yu escaped in the chaos and fled back to his army. Once he was safely returned to his camp, he relayed his tale to his subordinates, and when realizing that he was now caught between Lu Bu and the defenders of Youbeiping, he ordered that a messenger be sent to Cai Yong. The messenger, a officer named Xin Pi, travelled as quickly as possible towards Youbeiping. Soon after his arrival outside the gates, Xin Pi was admitted to the Prime Minister's presence; and after the ceremonies of greeting, Cai Yong asked the purpose of the visit. Xin Pi explained that Liu Yu wished to offer surrender on the condition that he be allowed to keep his title of Inspector of You Province and the commandery of Dai for himself, and presented the message that his lord had written. Cai Yong read it and told the messenger to wait while he held council with his officials.

“We have recently received news that Lu Bu and Zhang Liao have seized Youzhou, which is the seat of Liu Yu. He is only offering conditional surrender because he wishes to strike back at some later date. We should have our forces immediately push into Dai and end this traitor once and for all."

Others disagreed. "If you so wish to crush traitors, then do not forget the other traitor Gongsun Du. Accept the offer from Liu Yu, but do not expect him to become permanently loyal to the Emperor. However, it will be a brief respite and allow us to bring our forces north to crush Gongsun Du and bring the northern frontier of You province under our control. Otherwise, we shall become trapped in a conflict on two sides, whereas if we destroy Gongsun Du, we can turn our attention back to Liu Yu and bring him to justice by simply sending all our field armies north."

Realizing the opportunity to briefly secure their southern border, Cai Yong treated Xin Pi well and sent him back to Liu Yu informing him that he accepted his surrender. With the southern flank now secured, Cai Yong ordered Lu Bu and Zhang Liao to march north to deal with the traitorous Gongsun Du. This was a fortuitous move, for in the Spring of 197AD, Gongsun Du invaded Youzhou Commandery with 18,000 men with the intention of overwhelming and defeating the armies of Lu Bu and Zhang Liao in separate engagement. Once this had been accomplished, as Gongsun Du's advisers told him, all of You province would fall to him as leaves in the wind.

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Upon hearing that Lu Bu and Zhang Liao had already linked their forces, Gongsun Du realized that his plan to engage them separately had failed and quickly withdrew to a port settlement in Youbeiping Commandery. There he was reinforced by a further 10,000 men led by his son Gongsun Kang for a total strength of 28,000. Lu Bu and Zhang Liao held him in hot pursuit, and by autumn they had surrounded him with an army 14,000 strong. They were joined a day later by Prime Minister Cai, whom personally led a force of 2,000 to aid the expedition. Despite his superior numbers, Gongsun Du refused to give battle and remained in the settlement.

Above: Initial strength reports from the siege of Youbeiping trade port

Then one of Cai Yong's advisors suggested a plan to him, saying, “Now is the time for us to spread a report that half of our army has marched to besiege Liaoxi. Once Gongsun Du hears that the seat of his power is at risk, he will most surely sally out and do battle with our forces, and then we can ambush them." Cai Yong adopted this plan, and spread rumors of it far and wide. It came to the ears of Gongsun Du's men, and Gongsun Du, believing it, decided to launch an nighttime assault to break through the besieging lines. Gongsun Kang led the center while Gongsun Du himself led the vanguard, and it was in this formation that they approached the enemy. As they marched through a wooded hill, Cai Yong followed the same strategy that had worked against Gongsun Zan and he ordered the launching of the flaming pots to set the forest ablaze. The conflagration quickly consumed hundreds of men, and all around him Gongsun Du saw his soldiers burn alive.

Above: The forest is set ablaze.

With his officers urging him to get out of the immediate danger, Gongsun Du rushed out of the forest and charged the Imperial army with his vanguard. Lu Bu and Zhang Liao then both led one thousand cavalry each to flank him from both sides, while the archers under Cai Yong advanced and began releasing volleys of arrows into his ranks. He was now trapped, for the enemy horse had surrounded him from the left and right, the enemy infantry faced his front, and his retreat was cut off by the rising flames.

Above: The cavalry flank the forces of Gongsun Du

Gongsun Kang, seeing that his father was in danger, commanded four hundred horse to charge in an attempt to save him. He crashed into Lu Bu's contingent and Lu Bu soon had him slain. Nie Tingping, a general in the service of Gongsun Du, led a second attempt to relieve his lord, but was killed by Zhang Liao. With their officers dead, the army of Gongsun Kan became too dispirited to fight and soon gave way.

Above: The army of Gongsun Du enters a rout

Realizing that his army was lost, Gongsun Du fled northwards to Liaoxi alone. Zhang Liao attempted to follow but could not keep up, however, the Imperial army captured his treasures and slew 20,000 of his own men so that the fields ran red with blood and the corpses could not be counted. Another 8,000 men surrendered and pledged their lives to Cai Yong and the cause of Emperor Xian, and were allowed to be scattered into the countryside under promise to never again take up arms. It was a complete victory for Cai Yong, and made his conquest of You province inevitable. Cai Yong wasted little time in taking advantage of Gongsun Du's flight, and ordered Lu Bu and Zhang Liao to seize Liaoxi Commandery. He then personally returned to Youbeiping to oversee the matters at court.

Above: The casualty report from the siege of Youbeiping trade port.

At Youbeiping, he was given news that a messenger from the southern warlord Cao Cao had arrived. When he had been introduced to the court, he said, “My lord, the Inspector of Yan province, bows to the Emperor. He wishes to inform the court of his loyalty and subservience to his majesty, and offers to lend use of his forces in a common coalition to crush rebels and outlaws to restore stability to the realm."

"Cao Cao is a honorable man and one of the first to take action against the tyrant." said Cai Yong. "Furthermore, Yuan Shao remains as a threat to us in the south due to his control of Bing and Ji province, and our alliance with Cao Cao will make him hestitate in rebelling again, lest he be faced by enemies on two sides. I accept his terms, but he should know that he serves the Emperor and not the other way around."

With the alliance concluded, the messenger returned to Yan province with a gift of three hundred silk bolts to thank Cao Cao for his loyalty to the court. With his armies marching north to seize Liaoxi Commandery, a temporary peace to the west, and a newfound ally to the south, it once more seemed that stability would be brought back to the realm.

Above: The situation in northeastern China in mid-197AD

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Some stuff for record-keeping

Current Population, End of Chapter 7: 500,000
Cai Yong's Army Size, End of Chapter 7: 17,000
Current Ruler, End of Chapter 7: Cai Yong
Current Year: 197AD

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**Alwyn** · July 06, 2019, 09:56 AM

The way that you describe the fall of Chang'an is very effective, as is the way that you show us the desperate situations faced by Gongsun Zan, Gongsun Du and Gongsun Kan.

It's interesting that Cai Yong regards Cao Cao as honourable. Maybe he is honourable and will honour the new alliance, but I worry about his reputation as a ruthless manipulator.