“Captain, you’re here for military matters. No need for excessive courtesy,” facing this unexpected arrival of Captain Zhang, Yiyan showed no signs of suspicion or speculation, just offering a simple greeting.
Now, with many tasks awaiting in Bing County, talents are scarce. Therefore, the Lord has reasons for appointing this young and newly arrived commoner as one of the three advisory staff for the General’s Mansion. As a military commander, Yiyan only needs to follow the Lord’s orders. If this young man truly has any shortcomings, Yiyan will remember and report to the Lord.
Zhang Bin smiled faintly, “General Yi, you’re too polite. I will trouble you on our journey to Yanmen.”
Yiyan didn’t scrutinize him much, but Zhang Bin carefully observed this most trusted aide of Lord Liang. As a military leader, Yiyan wielded enormous power, almost single-handedly controlling the forces of the Liang Mansion and Shangdang. Although having capable generals is beneficial, the current number of troops is relatively small, making detailed division unwise. However, from the perspective of checks and balances, it is still inappropriate.
Yet, after personally seeing this Hu general, Zhang Bin eased his worries a bit. This man showed no signs of ambition. Even towards the highest-ranking officer in the General’s Mansion, a newly appointed adjutant for diplomatic missions, there was no curiosity or desire to build connections. He was like a sharpened sword, focused solely on the Lord’s command. For someone like this, showing some favoritism is not surprising, as long as he can maintain his integrity.
As for his true intentions, Zhang Bin will observe more for Lord Liang.
After a perfunctory greeting, Zhang Bin took his leave. Yiyan, currently busy with the attack on Xinxing Commandery, didn’t need to spend much effort. When Liu Hu besieged Jinyang back then, he took the majority of his forces. Now, these troops were scattered, and the defense of their headquarters, Jiuyuan City, was undoubtedly weak. With strong troops and the assistance of Sun Jiao’s Thunderbolt Camp, capturing the city only took half a day. Including street battles, it took about two days. However, after taking control of the city, dealing with the remaining bandits and outlaws became challenging.
Xinxing Commandery was one of the first few commanderies to fall. The scattered Xiongnu troops and mountain bandits were numerous. Since he arrived, Zhang Bin aimed to eliminate all the dangers one by one. This task was more time-consuming than capturing the city. After more than a month of continuous work, he finally stabilized the situation, especially after the arrival of Lord Liang’s appointed successor as the Prefect of Xinxing Commandery.
Next is the Bai Xianbei. With tens of thousands of households, even without the two thousand elites, the foundation of the Bai won’t be damaged. Although the sudden death of Liu Hu, this ally, may keep the Bai quiet for a while, having such a formidable enemy at the back of Bing County is not a good situation. Yiyan was still contemplating how to suppress this strong enemy when unexpectedly, the Lord sent Zhang Bin, the newly appointed military advisor, to borrow troops from the Tuoba tribe.
Is this a good idea? Indeed, it is. When Sima Teng governed Bing County, he repeatedly borrowed troops from the Tuoba tribe to resist the Xiongnu. Now, the Bai Xianbei are different from the past; they are trouble even for the Tuoba tribe itself. If they can successfully borrow several thousand troops, sweeping through the Bai won’t be a problem. However, with the Tuoba tribe currently in internal turmoil, can they obtain the reinforcements they need?
Perhaps this is the purpose of the Lord sending Zhang Bin. To see if this military advisor can shoulder such a heavy responsibility.
With a determined mindset, Yiyan’s handling of his affairs became faster. In just half a day, he arranged everything, ready to set off the next day. Unexpectedly, Zhang Bin added a request: “This time, General, please bring more elite cavalry.”
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Since it was an instruction from the military advisor, Yiyan naturally complied. A group of eight hundred cavalry set off towards the Tuoba Xianbei’s encampment. The main camp of the Tuoba tribe is not within Bing County but north of Yanmen. While the number of troops may not be excessive, they are all elites, and their presence is quite imposing. Therefore, when they arrived at the Tuoba Xianbei’s encampment, it caused quite a stir.
“I am unaware of the Governor’s sending of envoys for a visit; please forgive my disrespect.” The one welcoming them was Wei Cao. He was originally appointed as the Right General by Sima Teng and also served as the assistant minister to the Tuoba tribe. In reality, his status far exceeded that of the two envoys. However, even so, he still maintained the etiquette of a subordinate envoy, going out to greet them from a distance.
In response to such courtesy, Zhang Bin immediately bowed respectfully and said, “I appreciate the Right General’s reception, and I am truly unworthy.”
With such mutual politeness, the three of them entered the minister’s residence.
In fact, the minister’s residence itself was already quite impressive. It’s worth noting that the Tuoba tribe is a nomadic people, accustomed to moving with the availability of water and grass. Who would have thought that in such a remote area, they had built a small city? Without tents but with roofs, this transformation was already quite unimaginable. Moreover, the minister’s residence was built with a certain style, embodying the elegance of the Jin people.
Faced with such a mansion, Zhang Bin couldn’t help but praise, “I didn’t expect the Right General to build a city and establish a residence in such a wild place. I truly admire it!”
This statement was a bit presumptuous. After all, this was the territory of the Tuoba tribe. Criticizing it as wild and barbaric could be seen as calling the Tuoba clan uncivilized. However, Wei Cao just smiled and didn’t take offense. The small city had been built in just five years. To anyone from the Jin Dynasty, it was indeed astonishing. Their surprise was precisely a compliment to their capabilities. As a Jin person coming here to serve, wasn’t the intention to bring the civilization of the Central Plains to these people?
In the main hall, they sat according to the etiquette of the Jin people. Wei Cao spoke, “I wonder why General Zhang has come.”
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Zhang Bin composed his expression and solemnly said, “I come for the safety of Bing County. Currently, Governor Liang has just secured Jinyang and encountered unrest from the Bai tribe. The siege of Jinyang is perilous. After reclaiming Xinxing, the Governor intends to join forces with your tribe to eliminate this imminent threat.”
Wei Cao stroked his white goat’s beard and said, “It’s not that I am unwilling to assist Governor Liang in pacifying the chaos. It’s just that there are some disturbances in the Tuoba tribe now. The previous Grand Chanyu has just passed away, and there are some internal affairs that need to be handled. How can we spare a large army…”
“No need for a large army!” Zhang Bin hastily interjected. “Bing County also has several thousand troops. If the Tuoba tribe sends a few thousand soldiers, it will be enough to crush the Bai tribe!”
This statement was somewhat overconfident. Wei Cao furrowed his brows, “The Bai tribe has around forty thousand people, with about fifteen to sixteen thousand armed. However, how can these troops ensure success?”
“In the past, they might have posed a threat. However, during the recent pacification of Jinyang, General Yi has led troops to slaughter two thousand. Coupled with the absence of Liu Hu, their ally, the Bai tribe is currently like a startled bird. If the Chanyu is willing to send troops, we can surely overcome them in one fell swoop!” Zhang Bin’s expression carried a hint of pride.
Now Wei Cao was somewhat surprised. He had heard about Liu Hu’s death and the loss of Xinxing, but who could have expected that two thousand Bai tribe cavalry would die in Jinyang? In the past, several thousand Tuoba cavalry had been able to force Liu Yuan to abandon his armor and flee. Although the Bai tribe might not be as formidable as the Tuoba tribe in battle, being a Xianbei branch, how could the Bing County troops make them suffer such a heavy blow?
Perhaps noticing the surprise on Wei Cao’s face, Zhang Bin continued, “Moreover, the Bai tribe is originally a separate branch of the Tuoba lineage. Sending troops to besiege Jinyang may be directed by their chief. This might even create discord within the court.”
This statement was only half-spoken, leaving the other half unsaid. If the court didn’t know the truth, they might think that the Tuoba tribe harbored intentions toward Jinyang, indicating a betrayal of the court. However, the unspoken words hinted at another meaning. If the truth were known, it would reveal that the Bai tribe had broken free from Tuoba’s control. With the ongoing internal turmoil and other branches expressing intentions to defect, did the Tuoba tribe lose control over their surroundings due to the death of Tuoba Yi?
This “weakness” speculation was more frightening than the suspicion from the court. After all, the court was currently preoccupied with various conflicts and had no time for their peripheral territories. However, those small tribes subservient to the Tuoba tribe wouldn’t have such reservations. Once they sensed weakness, they could turn from loyal subjects into aggressive adversaries, perhaps even taking a bite. At that point, internal troubles and external threats would pose a fatal danger.
Without any hesitation, Wei Cao said, “The Tuoba tribe has always been loyal to the court. How could they have such rebellious thoughts? However, this matter is of great importance, and I must report it to the king.”
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On the surface, it was a report to Tuoba Yilu, but in reality, it suggested a more relaxed tone. Zhang Bin could not fail to notice this and readily agreed.
That night, the group stayed in the city. However, the next day, the audience changed to take place outside the city in the Xianbei big tent. This time, they were received by Tuoba Yilu, the leader of the central and western branches of the Suotou tribe. He was the younger brother of Tuoba Yi and took over the central branch after his brother’s death.
In the nomadic traditions, the succession from elder to younger brother was customary, aiming to ensure that the successor was exceptionally brave and capable of leading the tribe against various threats on the grasslands. However, not all descendants of the elder were willing to accept this, especially when there was an older successor. Frictions were inevitable. Tuoba Yilu now faced such a situation. The former leader had passed away just a year ago, and it would take several more years to truly unify the two tribal branches.
However, these concerns were not evident in front of this group of Jin Dynasty envoys.
Seated high in the big tent, Tuoba Yilu smiled and said, “I haven’t had the chance to congratulate Governor Liang on taking over Bing County. Unexpectedly, we welcome esteemed envoys. I heard that Governor Liang is extremely fond of Buddhism. I have long admired it!”
The Xianbei people also embraced Buddhism, and the Tuoba Xianbei were no exception. Zhang Bin was well-prepared for this: “Governor, in sending me here, has also brought gifts for the Chanyu.”
As he spoke, one by one, wooden boxes were presented by the guards. Inside were lapis lazuli beads produced by the Liang mansion, Buddha statues carved from green jade and white porcelain, exquisite silk, and other rare items scarce on the grasslands.
Tuoba Yilu’s handsome and dignified face immediately showed delight. “Governor is indeed generous. With such excellent gifts, how can I repay the kindness?”
Zhang Bin smiled and said, “When the Chanyu sent troops to rescue, it lifted the siege of Bing County, saving countless lives. Such a humble gift is truly inadequate.”
This tactful expression pleased Tuoba Yilu, who laughed heartily. “Governor is truly a magnanimous person!”
Back when Sima Teng sought titles from the court, he was far less generous, merely requesting recognition. It was a benefit without cost, reaching its limit. Now, Governor Liang came with jewels, silk, and sincerity, which was a completely different level.
However, despite the joy, Tuoba Yilu did not bring up the matter of sending troops. Instead, he looked with interest at the Jie young man sitting beside him. “You are the undefeated general under the Governor?”
“I dare not claim such an illustrious title,” Yiyan replied, bowing.
“Haha! General Yi’s demeanor is quite like that of a Jin person!” Tuoba Yilu shook his head and chuckled. “Observing the soldiers brought by General, they are truly vigorous. Were they the ones who defeated those ‘white dogs’?”
Tuoba Yilu did not give a favorable title to the defected Bai tribe Xianbei.
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Mocked for his overly refined behavior, Yiyan was not offended. “Indeed, fifteen hundred against two thousand, a fortunate victory.”
Tuoba Yilu’s laughter abruptly ceased. Even the Tuoba tribe wouldn’t dare claim victory with fewer numbers. Moreover, this time, the besieging forces led by Liu Hu were rumored to be ten thousand strong. How did fifteen hundred cavalry manage to repel two thousand elite Bai tribe warriors?
With a hint of eagerness in his eyes, Tuoba Yilu proposed, “This is truly unparalleled courage. I happen to have some personal guards outside the tent. General Yi, would you be willing to demonstrate your skills? Of course, it would be just an archery contest, harmless to our camaraderie.”
Yiyan’s gaze subtly fell on Zhang Bin, who gave a barely noticeable nod.
Yiyan raised an eyebrow and proudly declared, “Sure, why not?”
“Captain, you’re here for military matters. No need for excessive courtesy,” facing this unexpected arrival of Captain Zhang, Yiyan showed no signs of suspicion or speculation, just offering a simple greeting.
Now, with many tasks awaiting in Bing County, talents are scarce. Therefore, the Lord has reasons for appointing this young and newly arrived commoner as one of the three advisory staff for the General’s Mansion. As a military commander, Yiyan only needs to follow the Lord’s orders. If this young man truly has any shortcomings, Yiyan will remember and report to the Lord.
Zhang Bin smiled faintly, “General Yi, you’re too polite. I will trouble you on our journey to Yanmen.”
Yiyan didn’t scrutinize him much, but Zhang Bin carefully observed this most trusted aide of Lord Liang. As a military leader, Yiyan wielded enormous power, almost single-handedly controlling the forces of the Liang Mansion and Shangdang. Although having capable generals is beneficial, the current number of troops is relatively small, making detailed division unwise. However, from the perspective of checks and balances, it is still inappropriate.
Yet, after personally seeing this Hu general, Zhang Bin eased his worries a bit. This man showed no signs of ambition. Even towards the highest-ranking officer in the General’s Mansion, a newly appointed adjutant for diplomatic missions, there was no curiosity or desire to build connections. He was like a sharpened sword, focused solely on the Lord’s command. For someone like this, showing some favoritism is not surprising, as long as he can maintain his integrity.
As for his true intentions, Zhang Bin will observe more for Lord Liang.
After a perfunctory greeting, Zhang Bin took his leave. Yiyan, currently busy with the attack on Xinxing Commandery, didn’t need to spend much effort. When Liu Hu besieged Jinyang back then, he took the majority of his forces. Now, these troops were scattered, and the defense of their headquarters, Jiuyuan City, was undoubtedly weak. With strong troops and the assistance of Sun Jiao’s Thunderbolt Camp, capturing the city only took half a day. Including street battles, it took about two days. However, after taking control of the city, dealing with the remaining bandits and outlaws became challenging.
Xinxing Commandery was one of the first few commanderies to fall. The scattered Xiongnu troops and mountain bandits were numerous. Since he arrived, Zhang Bin aimed to eliminate all the dangers one by one. This task was more time-consuming than capturing the city. After more than a month of continuous work, he finally stabilized the situation, especially after the arrival of Lord Liang’s appointed successor as the Prefect of Xinxing Commandery.
Next is the Bai Xianbei. With tens of thousands of households, even without the two thousand elites, the foundation of the Bai won’t be damaged. Although the sudden death of Liu Hu, this ally, may keep the Bai quiet for a while, having such a formidable enemy at the back of Bing County is not a good situation. Yiyan was still contemplating how to suppress this strong enemy when unexpectedly, the Lord sent Zhang Bin, the newly appointed military advisor, to borrow troops from the Tuoba tribe.
Is this a good idea? Indeed, it is. When Sima Teng governed Bing County, he repeatedly borrowed troops from the Tuoba tribe to resist the Xiongnu. Now, the Bai Xianbei are different from the past; they are trouble even for the Tuoba tribe itself. If they can successfully borrow several thousand troops, sweeping through the Bai won’t be a problem. However, with the Tuoba tribe currently in internal turmoil, can they obtain the reinforcements they need?
Perhaps this is the purpose of the Lord sending Zhang Bin. To see if this military advisor can shoulder such a heavy responsibility.
With a determined mindset, Yiyan’s handling of his affairs became faster. In just half a day, he arranged everything, ready to set off the next day. Unexpectedly, Zhang Bin added a request: “This time, General, please bring more elite cavalry.”
Advertisement
Since it was an instruction from the military advisor, Yiyan naturally complied. A group of eight hundred cavalry set off towards the Tuoba Xianbei’s encampment. The main camp of the Tuoba tribe is not within Bing County but north of Yanmen. While the number of troops may not be excessive, they are all elites, and their presence is quite imposing. Therefore, when they arrived at the Tuoba Xianbei’s encampment, it caused quite a stir.
“I am unaware of the Governor’s sending of envoys for a visit; please forgive my disrespect.” The one welcoming them was Wei Cao. He was originally appointed as the Right General by Sima Teng and also served as the assistant minister to the Tuoba tribe. In reality, his status far exceeded that of the two envoys. However, even so, he still maintained the etiquette of a subordinate envoy, going out to greet them from a distance.
In response to such courtesy, Zhang Bin immediately bowed respectfully and said, “I appreciate the Right General’s reception, and I am truly unworthy.”
With such mutual politeness, the three of them entered the minister’s residence.
In fact, the minister’s residence itself was already quite impressive. It’s worth noting that the Tuoba tribe is a nomadic people, accustomed to moving with the availability of water and grass. Who would have thought that in such a remote area, they had built a small city? Without tents but with roofs, this transformation was already quite unimaginable. Moreover, the minister’s residence was built with a certain style, embodying the elegance of the Jin people.
Faced with such a mansion, Zhang Bin couldn’t help but praise, “I didn’t expect the Right General to build a city and establish a residence in such a wild place. I truly admire it!”
This statement was a bit presumptuous. After all, this was the territory of the Tuoba tribe. Criticizing it as wild and barbaric could be seen as calling the Tuoba clan uncivilized. However, Wei Cao just smiled and didn’t take offense. The small city had been built in just five years. To anyone from the Jin Dynasty, it was indeed astonishing. Their surprise was precisely a compliment to their capabilities. As a Jin person coming here to serve, wasn’t the intention to bring the civilization of the Central Plains to these people?
In the main hall, they sat according to the etiquette of the Jin people. Wei Cao spoke, “I wonder why General Zhang has come.”
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Zhang Bin composed his expression and solemnly said, “I come for the safety of Bing County. Currently, Governor Liang has just secured Jinyang and encountered unrest from the Bai tribe. The siege of Jinyang is perilous. After reclaiming Xinxing, the Governor intends to join forces with your tribe to eliminate this imminent threat.”
Wei Cao stroked his white goat’s beard and said, “It’s not that I am unwilling to assist Governor Liang in pacifying the chaos. It’s just that there are some disturbances in the Tuoba tribe now. The previous Grand Chanyu has just passed away, and there are some internal affairs that need to be handled. How can we spare a large army…”
“No need for a large army!” Zhang Bin hastily interjected. “Bing County also has several thousand troops. If the Tuoba tribe sends a few thousand soldiers, it will be enough to crush the Bai tribe!”
This statement was somewhat overconfident. Wei Cao furrowed his brows, “The Bai tribe has around forty thousand people, with about fifteen to sixteen thousand armed. However, how can these troops ensure success?”
“In the past, they might have posed a threat. However, during the recent pacification of Jinyang, General Yi has led troops to slaughter two thousand. Coupled with the absence of Liu Hu, their ally, the Bai tribe is currently like a startled bird. If the Chanyu is willing to send troops, we can surely overcome them in one fell swoop!” Zhang Bin’s expression carried a hint of pride.
Now Wei Cao was somewhat surprised. He had heard about Liu Hu’s death and the loss of Xinxing, but who could have expected that two thousand Bai tribe cavalry would die in Jinyang? In the past, several thousand Tuoba cavalry had been able to force Liu Yuan to abandon his armor and flee. Although the Bai tribe might not be as formidable as the Tuoba tribe in battle, being a Xianbei branch, how could the Bing County troops make them suffer such a heavy blow?
Perhaps noticing the surprise on Wei Cao’s face, Zhang Bin continued, “Moreover, the Bai tribe is originally a separate branch of the Tuoba lineage. Sending troops to besiege Jinyang may be directed by their chief. This might even create discord within the court.”
This statement was only half-spoken, leaving the other half unsaid. If the court didn’t know the truth, they might think that the Tuoba tribe harbored intentions toward Jinyang, indicating a betrayal of the court. However, the unspoken words hinted at another meaning. If the truth were known, it would reveal that the Bai tribe had broken free from Tuoba’s control. With the ongoing internal turmoil and other branches expressing intentions to defect, did the Tuoba tribe lose control over their surroundings due to the death of Tuoba Yi?
This “weakness” speculation was more frightening than the suspicion from the court. After all, the court was currently preoccupied with various conflicts and had no time for their peripheral territories. However, those small tribes subservient to the Tuoba tribe wouldn’t have such reservations. Once they sensed weakness, they could turn from loyal subjects into aggressive adversaries, perhaps even taking a bite. At that point, internal troubles and external threats would pose a fatal danger.
Without any hesitation, Wei Cao said, “The Tuoba tribe has always been loyal to the court. How could they have such rebellious thoughts? However, this matter is of great importance, and I must report it to the king.”
Advertisement
On the surface, it was a report to Tuoba Yilu, but in reality, it suggested a more relaxed tone. Zhang Bin could not fail to notice this and readily agreed.
That night, the group stayed in the city. However, the next day, the audience changed to take place outside the city in the Xianbei big tent. This time, they were received by Tuoba Yilu, the leader of the central and western branches of the Suotou tribe. He was the younger brother of Tuoba Yi and took over the central branch after his brother’s death.
In the nomadic traditions, the succession from elder to younger brother was customary, aiming to ensure that the successor was exceptionally brave and capable of leading the tribe against various threats on the grasslands. However, not all descendants of the elder were willing to accept this, especially when there was an older successor. Frictions were inevitable. Tuoba Yilu now faced such a situation. The former leader had passed away just a year ago, and it would take several more years to truly unify the two tribal branches.
However, these concerns were not evident in front of this group of Jin Dynasty envoys.
Seated high in the big tent, Tuoba Yilu smiled and said, “I haven’t had the chance to congratulate Governor Liang on taking over Bing County. Unexpectedly, we welcome esteemed envoys. I heard that Governor Liang is extremely fond of Buddhism. I have long admired it!”
The Xianbei people also embraced Buddhism, and the Tuoba Xianbei were no exception. Zhang Bin was well-prepared for this: “Governor, in sending me here, has also brought gifts for the Chanyu.”
As he spoke, one by one, wooden boxes were presented by the guards. Inside were lapis lazuli beads produced by the Liang mansion, Buddha statues carved from green jade and white porcelain, exquisite silk, and other rare items scarce on the grasslands.
Tuoba Yilu’s handsome and dignified face immediately showed delight. “Governor is indeed generous. With such excellent gifts, how can I repay the kindness?”
Zhang Bin smiled and said, “When the Chanyu sent troops to rescue, it lifted the siege of Bing County, saving countless lives. Such a humble gift is truly inadequate.”
This tactful expression pleased Tuoba Yilu, who laughed heartily. “Governor is truly a magnanimous person!”
Back when Sima Teng sought titles from the court, he was far less generous, merely requesting recognition. It was a benefit without cost, reaching its limit. Now, Governor Liang came with jewels, silk, and sincerity, which was a completely different level.
However, despite the joy, Tuoba Yilu did not bring up the matter of sending troops. Instead, he looked with interest at the Jie young man sitting beside him. “You are the undefeated general under the Governor?”
“I dare not claim such an illustrious title,” Yiyan replied, bowing.
“Haha! General Yi’s demeanor is quite like that of a Jin person!” Tuoba Yilu shook his head and chuckled. “Observing the soldiers brought by General, they are truly vigorous. Were they the ones who defeated those ‘white dogs’?”
Tuoba Yilu did not give a favorable title to the defected Bai tribe Xianbei.
Advertisement
Mocked for his overly refined behavior, Yiyan was not offended. “Indeed, fifteen hundred against two thousand, a fortunate victory.”
Tuoba Yilu’s laughter abruptly ceased. Even the Tuoba tribe wouldn’t dare claim victory with fewer numbers. Moreover, this time, the besieging forces led by Liu Hu were rumored to be ten thousand strong. How did fifteen hundred cavalry manage to repel two thousand elite Bai tribe warriors?
With a hint of eagerness in his eyes, Tuoba Yilu proposed, “This is truly unparalleled courage. I happen to have some personal guards outside the tent. General Yi, would you be willing to demonstrate your skills? Of course, it would be just an archery contest, harmless to our camaraderie.”
Yiyan’s gaze subtly fell on Zhang Bin, who gave a barely noticeable nod.
Yiyan raised an eyebrow and proudly declared, “Sure, why not?”
